Nuggets
Golden brown nuggets packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon and sweet raisins or dates, complemented by crunchy nuts. Perfect as a snack or dessert for those who enjoy a combination of sweet and nutty flavors, offering a satisfying crunch and chewy bite in every piece.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and shortening; add eggs.
- Mix well.
- Add sifted flour, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon; stir until dry ingredients are moistened.
- Add nuts and chopped raisins or dates.
- Drop by heaping teaspoonfuls onto greased cookie sheets.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes.
- Remove to wire rack.
- Cool and store in a tight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half shortening in the recipe. You can also substitute chopped dried apricots or cranberries for the raisins or dates if preferred. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to mix, which helps in achieving a uniform consistency. If you like a touch of extra flavor, add a dash of vanilla extract.
Serving Suggestions
These nuggets are delightful on their own but can also be served warm with a scoop of Rocky Road Ice Cream for a special treat. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of tea for a comforting snack. They make excellent additions to a dessert platter or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced bite.
Storage & Reheating
Store the nuggets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nuggets contains roughly 159 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 6g 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
What can I use instead of shortening?
You can replace shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Keep in mind that using butter will add a richer flavor, while coconut oil may impart a slight coconut taste to the nuggets. Ensure any substitution is at room temperature for the best mixing results.
How can I make these nuggets gluten-free?
To make gluten-free nuggets, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add 1/4 teaspoon per cup of flour for proper binding. Additionally, double-check all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free, especially the baking powder.
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).