Whatits
Crispy, nutty cookies with a delicate melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and crunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Lightly grease a cookie sheet with unsalted shortening.
- Mix chopped nuts with flour.
- Beat egg whites to soft peaks.
- Gradually add sifted light brown sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the nut-flour mixture into the beaten egg whites.
- Drop teaspoon-sized portions of the mixture onto the prepared cookie sheet, about 1.5 inches apart.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and cool slightly before transferring cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your whatits, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the nut-flour mixture. If you're looking for a nut-free option, you can substitute the nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Make sure to use fresh egg whites for better volume when beating them. If you want a sweeter touch, you can fold in some chocolate chips before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Whatits are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat. They also pair nicely with coffee or tea, making them a great addition to a dessert platter. For a festive touch, consider drizzling them with Amaretto Fudge Sauce for a rich flavor contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store whatits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them crisp, you can add a slice of bread to the container, which will help absorb moisture. If you need to reheat them, place them in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whatits contains roughly 53 calories, with 2g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 different types of nuts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of chopped nuts you prefer, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Each type will impart its unique flavor to the whatits, so feel free to experiment for variety.
What should I do if my egg whites don't form stiff peaks?
If your egg whites aren't forming stiff peaks, ensure your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease. Adding a pinch of cream of tartar can also help stabilize the egg whites and achieve the desired consistency.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Whatits can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. They maintain their texture and flavor well, making them perfect for preparing in advance for gatherings or snacks.
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).