Rock Cookies
Rock Cookies are hearty, fruit-filled treats with a spicy nutty flavor, perfect for holidays or special occasions, combining candied fruits, nuts, and warm spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up all fruit and mix with apple juice.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix well after creaming.
- Add eggs one at a time, alternating with flour.
- Add fruit mixture, chopped nuts, and spices to the batter.
- Mix well until combined.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, you can substitute the chopped nuts with additional candied fruit or oats. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar by a quarter pound. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, and consider using a mix of spices to enhance the flavor profile. For added texture, try adding a handful of rolled oats. This recipe is a fun way to use up leftover candied fruits from holiday baking.
Serving Suggestions
These rock cookies make a delightful addition to a dessert platter alongside treats like Judy Wainscott'S Chocolate Fudge or Comet Balls. Serve them with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for a cozy snack. They are also great for holiday gatherings or as a special treat in lunchboxes. Pairing them with fresh fruit can balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rock cookies 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. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain their texture without making them dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rock Cookies contains roughly 2240 calories, with 17g protein, 197g carbohydrates, and 168g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (114% of the Daily Value), calcium (78% of the Daily Value), and iron (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2562mg per serving (111% 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?
Absolutely! You can substitute the candied cherries and pineapple with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or even fresh fruits like apples or pears, though this may alter the moisture content. Just ensure any fresh fruit is chopped small to maintain the cookie's texture.
How do I ensure my cookies come out chewy?
To achieve chewy rock cookies, avoid overbaking. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish setting.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, especially the baking powder and spices, are gluten-free to avoid 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).