Noels
Noels are delicate, nutty cookies coated in powdered sugar, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for holidays or gift-giving with a buttery, sweet flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together the margarine and powdered sugar.
- Add the remaining ingredients; mix well.
- Shape the mixture into small balls.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Partially cool, then roll the balls in more powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your margarine is softened to room temperature before creaming with powdered sugar, which helps achieve a light texture. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute with oats or coconut for added texture. Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut to personalize the taste. These cookies also benefit from a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful Noels are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat with afternoon tea. Serve them alongside a refreshing Pink Fruit Punch for a festive touch. For a more indulgent experience, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of whipped cream. They also make great gifts when packaged in decorative tins.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Noels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container once solid. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven to refresh their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noels contains roughly 251 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 19g 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 butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can substitute butter for margarine in this recipe. Using butter will add a richer flavor and a slightly different texture, but it will still yield delicious cookies. Just ensure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming with the powdered sugar.
What type of nuts works best for this recipe?
You can use any chopped nuts you prefer, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Each type will impart its unique flavor to the Noels. If you want a more subtle nut flavor, consider using finely chopped nuts or even ground nuts mixed in with the flour.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make Noels gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends that contain xanthan gum for better texture. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, like powdered sugar and margarine, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
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).