Surprise Cookies
Surprise Cookies are delightful treats featuring a cherry hidden inside a buttery, powdered sugar-coated cookie. The combination of sweet cherry, rum extract, and tender cookie dough makes them perfect for festive occasions or as a charming homemade gift, appealing to those who enjoy rich, fruity confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Cream margarine and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in sifted flour, rum extract, and chopped nuts; blend well.
- Wrap a tablespoon of dough around each maraschino cherry.
- Place the cookies on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake for 25 minutes and cool slightly.
- Roll in additional powdered sugar and finely chopped nuts before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If you want to add a bit of crunch, finely chopped nuts can be included in the dough, or sprinkled on top before baking. Ensure the maraschino cherries are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the cookies. These surprise cookies can also be made using flavored extracts like almond for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
These surprise cookies make a delightful treat for any occasion and pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a platter of Baked Caramel Corn or a fruit salad. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them. To enjoy them warm, simply microwave for a few seconds until heated through; be careful not to overheat, as this can change the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Surprise Cookies contains roughly 80 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 a different type of extract instead of rum?
Absolutely! You can substitute rum extract with vanilla, almond, or coconut extract for different flavor profiles. Each will give the cookies a unique taste, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
What should I do if I don't have powdered sugar?
If you don’t have powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender or food processor until it becomes a fine powder. Alternatively, you can use granulated sugar in the dough, but the texture may be slightly different.
How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative, and ensure the maraschino cherries and any other ingredients used are vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of surprise cookies!
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).