Sister-In-Laws
A rich, nutty cookie filled with chopped dates and walnuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday treats for those who love sweet, buttery flavors with a hint of almond.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the shortening, butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and almond flavoring until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts and chopped dates until evenly distributed.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half margarine. If you need a nut-free option, you can substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds. Make sure to chop the dates finely to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cookies. If you want an added burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after dinner. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving them alongside a platter of Deviled (Angel) Eggs for a delightful gathering. For a festive touch, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sister-In-Laws contains roughly 2528 calories, with 24g protein, 189g carbohydrates, and 183g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (60% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1518mg per serving (66% 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 nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, you can easily substitute with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend well into the cookie dough.
What can I substitute for shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of softened butter. This will add more flavor and richness to your cookies. Alternatively, coconut oil can also be a good substitute for a dairy-free option.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze well! Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy them.
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).