Mom Pepp'S Date Drops
Mom Pepp'S Date Drops are chewy, sweet cookies filled with chopped dates and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for snack time or dessert, these treats offer a delightful combination of caramel-like sweetness and a tender texture, making them a favorite among those who enjoy rich, fruity baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle baking soda on chopped dates and pour hot water over them; set aside to soften.
- Cream together the butter or shortening and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add beaten eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture; mix well.
- Combine flour and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until incorporated.
- Stir in the date mixture until evenly distributed in the dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a greased cookie sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until the cookies are golden brown, about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with a mix of white sugar and a bit of molasses. For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and flax eggs instead of regular eggs. Make sure the dates are soft enough to blend well into the cookie dough.
Serving Suggestions
These Date Drops are delicious on their own but can be served with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful treat. They also pair beautifully with Dill Dip For Vegetables for a unique appetizer spread. Consider serving with fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks. To reheat, pop them in a microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300°F for a few minutes to regain their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom Pepp'S Date Drops contains roughly 203 calories, with 3g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other dried fruits instead of dates?
Yes, you can substitute dates with dried figs, raisins, or apricots. Just ensure that the fruit is chopped finely and consider adjusting the sweetness based on your fruit's natural sugar content. Each fruit will give a different flavor profile to the cookies.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try adding a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Ensure that you measure the flour correctly, as too much moisture can lead to stickiness.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven. You can also freeze the dough and bake them fresh when needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).