Mother'S Chinese Chews
Mother's Chinese Chews are chewy, nutty treats with sweet dates and vanilla, perfect for sharing with family and friends as a delightful snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and then add the brown sugar and vanilla, mixing well.
- Stir in the chopped dates and chopped nuts until evenly combined.
- Add the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt to the mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 17 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using light brown sugar instead of dark. You can substitute the chopped dates with dried apricots or raisins if desired. Make sure to sift the flour well to avoid clumps in the batter. Mixing in a pinch of cinnamon can add a warm spice note to the chews. Experiment with different nuts like pecans or walnuts for added variety.
Serving Suggestions
These chews make a delightful snack or dessert and can be served alone or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting afternoon break. They also work well as a sweet ending to a meal featuring savory dishes like Black Pepper Steak (Wok Cooking).
Storage & Reheating
Allow the chews to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the squares in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or briefly microwave them to enjoy warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Chinese Chews contains roughly 820 calories, with 9g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1153mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
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
What is the best way to cut the chews after baking?
Allow the chews to cool slightly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean edges, cutting while they are still warm for easier slicing.
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).