Pineapple-Nut-Cherry Cookies
Sweet and moist pineapple-nut-cherry cookies combine tropical fruit flavors with crunch from nuts, perfect for those who enjoy fruity, chewy cookies with a hint of citrus or cherry.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugars together.
- Add the well-beaten eggs and mix well.
- Stir in the drained, crushed pineapple, chopped maraschino cherries, and vanilla or lemon flavoring.
- Mix in the nuts.
- Gradually add the flour and baking soda mixture until well blended.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 12 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before storing in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half shortening instead of just shortening. You can substitute the chopped nuts with seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. If you prefer a more intense flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent a soggy cookie.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Charlie'S Drop Cookies during holidays or gatherings for a varied cookie platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple-Nut-Cherry Cookies contains roughly 378 calories, with 1g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 13g 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely chop and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture in the dough. This will help maintain the cookie's texture and prevent it from becoming too wet.
How can I make these cookies more chewy?
To achieve chewier cookies, reduce the baking time by a minute or two and slightly increase the amount of brown sugar in the recipe. Brown sugar contributes to a chewier texture due to its higher moisture content.
What can I substitute for shortening?
You can replace shortening with butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, try coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, which will also work well in this recipe.
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).