Peach Chews
Peach Chews are sweet, fruity cookies with tender dried peaches and a hint of almond and vanilla, perfect for a delightful treat or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dried peaches and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.
- Drain the peaches and chop them into small pieces.
- Toss chopped peaches with sifted flour.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Blend in egg yolks, almond extract, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the flour-peach mixture.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 325°F for about 25 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and roll the cookies in powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, soak the dried peaches longer or add a splash of orange juice to the water. If you're out of almond extract, substitute with an equal amount of hazelnut or vanilla extract. You can also replace pecans with walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version, making them suitable for various dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
These Peach Chews are delightful on their own, but they can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or paired with coffee for a cozy treat. For festive occasions, they complement a platter of Christmas Pralines beautifully, adding a sweet variety to your dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Peach Chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness. To enjoy them warm again, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or reheat in the oven at a low temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peach Chews contains roughly 540 calories, with 19g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
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 fresh peaches instead of dried peaches?
Fresh peaches can be used, but they will need to be dehydrated first to mimic the texture and sweetness of dried peaches. Slice the fresh peaches, remove the skin, and use a dehydrator or an oven set to a low temperature until they are dried. This will ensure you achieve the right consistency for the recipe.
What can I substitute for butter in this recipe?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine instead of butter. Both will provide a similar richness to the Peach Chews while keeping them suitable for vegan diets. Just make sure the substitute is solid at room temperature for best results.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly browned around the edges and firm to the touch in the center. If you gently press a cookie, it should spring back slightly. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-baking.
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).