Wine Drops
Delicious and aromatic wine drops cookies feature warm spices, raisins, and nuts, perfect for festive occasions or a cozy treat with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and beat well.
- Mix in molasses.
- Sift together flour, soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Alternately add dry ingredients and sweet milk to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in raisins, currants, or dates, and chopped nuts.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto a baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. Ensure your raisins or currants are plump by soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding to the batter. Adjust the spices to your preference, and feel free to mix in chocolate chips for a twist. These adjustments keep the essence of traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful cookies warm with a glass of sweet milk or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a delicious treat for afternoon tea or as a dessert after a hearty meal. For an added touch, try pairing them with a slice of My Mama'S Pecan Pie for a comforting dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Wine Drops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in a microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wine Drops contains roughly 163 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 5g 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 fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute the shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that any fat you choose is softened to room temperature for better mixing.
What can I use if I don't have sweet milk?
If sweet milk isn't available, you can use regular milk with a teaspoon of sugar added, or substitute with buttermilk for a tangy flavor. Both options will work well in keeping the cookies moist.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider incorporating chopped dried cranberries or orange zest into the dough. You can also drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies for an elegant presentation, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.
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).