Are you looking for a quick and easy dessert recipe that's also incredibly delicious and naturally sweet? Look no further! These stuffed date cookies are the perfect answer. They're a delightful blend of chewy dates, crunchy nuts, and a hint of spice, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. Perfect for a cozy night in, a bake sale, or even a sophisticated dessert platter, these homemade cookies are sure to impress. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pitted Medjool dates, chopped
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dates
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dates and boiling water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to soften. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly chewy texture.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer, but you can certainly do it by hand with a bit more elbow grease!
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dates
Drain the soaked dates and add them to the butter mixture. Mash them slightly with a fork to break them down a bit further.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 7: Add Nuts (Optional)
Stir in the chopped nuts, if using.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 9: Bake and Cool
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stuffed Date Cookies:
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Use high-quality dates: Medjool dates are the best for this recipe due to their rich flavor and soft texture.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the amount of sugar by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Add a pinch of salt: A pinch of salt will enhance the flavors of the cookies.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Stuffed Date Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough.
- Spiced Stuffed Date Cookies: Increase the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg, or add a pinch of cardamom or ginger.
- Stuffed Date and Walnut Cookies: Add a whole walnut to the center of each cookie ball before baking for an extra nutty surprise.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 Fat: 8-10g Sugar: 10-12g Protein: 2-3g
These delicious stuffed date cookies are a perfect example of healthy meals and easy recipes combined. They're a delightful treat that's both satisfying and relatively healthy, making them a great addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas or delightful dessert options. Enjoy!