Peanut Butter Fruit Drops
Peanut Butter Fruit Drops are chewy, flavorful cookies packed with diced candied fruits and warm spices, perfect for those who enjoy sweet, nutty treats with a festive twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, beat together the peanut butter and butter or margarine.
- Stir in eggs, honey, and milk until well blended.
- Stir in candied fruits and peels.
- Stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the candied fruit mixture.
- Drop the dough by teaspoonfuls, 2 inches apart, on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove and cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use natural peanut butter. You can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option. If you have allergies, try sunflower butter instead of peanut butter. For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier blending.
Serving Suggestions
These delicious drops can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of herbal tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Aunt Zulma's Orange Cake during holiday gatherings. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Peanut Butter Fruit Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Fruit Drops contains roughly 820 calories, with 22g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1905mg per serving (83% 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
Can I use different types of fruit in this recipe?
Yes, you can customize the recipe by using other dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even distribution. Avoid using overly moist fruits, as they may alter the texture of the drops.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky to handle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to drop onto the baking sheet. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has a binding agent, such as xanthan gum. This will help maintain the structure and texture of the Peanut Butter Fruit Drops without compromising flavor.
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).