Refrigerator cookies

Refrigerator Cookies Recipe - Traditional American Cookies with Dates, Coconut and Walnuts

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Refrigerator cookies are a classic treat that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. These cookies get their name from the fact that the dough needs to be chilled in the refrigerator before baking. They are a delicious combination of buttery dough, sweet dates, crunchy pecans, and chewy coconut.

History

Refrigerator cookies have been a popular dessert choice for many years. The recipe first gained popularity in the early 20th century when refrigerators became more common in households. The convenience of being able to make the dough ahead of time and simply slice and bake the cookies when needed made them a hit with busy home cooks.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of butter or margarine
1 egg
2 tsp of vanilla
1 tsp of baking powder
a dash of salt
1 cup of flour
1 cup of unsugared dates, chopped
1 cup of shredded coconut
1 cup of walnuts or pecans

How to prepare

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, egg, and vanilla until well mixed and fluffy.
Gradually beat in the dry ingredients, making sure to mix well after each addition.
Mix in the dates, coconut, and 0.25 cup of the nuts.
Shape the dough into two logs, each measuring 1-0.5 inches in diameter.
Roll the logs in the remaining 0.25 cup of nuts.
Wrap the logs in waxed paper and refrigerate (or freeze) until firm enough to slice.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Slice the cookies into 0.25-inch thick rounds and place them on a nonstick cookie sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are light golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on wire racks.
Each serving of 2 cookies provides 1 fat, 0.5 fruit, 0.25 bread, and 95 calories.
The nutritional values per serving are: Carbs = 11.5 g, Protein = 1 g, Fat = 5 g
This recipe is approved by the Diabetes Association.

Variations

Swap out the pecans for almonds or walnuts.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy flavor.
Drizzle the baked cookies with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before slicing to ensure the cookies hold their shape while baking.

- Feel free to customize the mix-ins to suit your taste preferences. You can swap out the dates for raisins or dried cranberries, or use different nuts like walnuts or almonds.

- For a festive touch, roll the cookie logs in colored sugar or sprinkles before chilling.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these cookies with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. They also make a great addition to a holiday cookie platter.

Cooking Techniques

Chilling the dough before slicing and baking helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading in the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have margarine on hand, you can use butter as a substitute. You can also use different types of nuts or dried fruits in place of the pecans and dates.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for these cookies can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 1 month. Simply slice and bake the cookies as needed.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the sliced cookies on a decorative platter or cookie tin for a beautiful presentation. Dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

These cookies pair well with a glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply place the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of 2 cookies contains 95 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of 2 cookies provides 11.5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of 2 cookies provides 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of 2 cookies provides 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Refrigerator cookies contain essential nutrients such as vitamin E from the nuts and coconut, as well as iron and potassium from the dates.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and eggs. It may also contain gluten depending on the type of flour used.

Summary

Refrigerator cookies are a tasty treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They provide a source of carbohydrates, fats, and protein, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Refrigerator cookies are a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed any time of year. With a buttery dough and a mix of sweet and crunchy mix-ins, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or gift for loved ones.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my aunt Martha in her cozy kitchen. She was bustling about, pulling out ingredients and measuring out flour, sugar, and butter. I asked her what she was making and she smiled and said, "Refrigerator cookies, dear. A family favorite."

I watched intently as she mixed the ingredients together, forming a smooth dough that she then shaped into a log and wrapped in wax paper. She explained that the dough needed to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before being sliced and baked. I was fascinated by the simplicity of the recipe and the anticipation of waiting for the cookies to be ready.

As I sat at the kitchen table, the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air, I knew I had to learn how to make them myself. Aunt Martha was more than happy to share her recipe with me, passing down another treasured family secret.

Over the years, I have made these refrigerator cookies countless times, each batch turning out just as delicious as the last. The recipe has become a staple in my own kitchen, a comforting reminder of the time spent with family and the joy of sharing homemade treats with loved ones.

I remember the first time I shared these cookies with my own children. Their eyes lit up with delight as they bit into the soft, buttery goodness. It was a proud moment for me, knowing that I was passing down a tradition that had been cherished for generations.

As the years passed, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own personal touch with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of chocolate chips. Each variation brought its own unique flavor, but the simple pleasure of a freshly baked refrigerator cookie remained unchanged.

I think back on all the places I have learned recipes from over the years – from my mother’s kitchen to a quaint bakery in Paris – and I am grateful for the knowledge and inspiration they have provided. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express creativity and show love to those around me.

As I sit in my own kitchen now, surrounded by the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies, I am filled with gratitude for the simple joys in life. The recipe for refrigerator cookies may be just a collection of ingredients and instructions on paper, but to me, it represents so much more – a connection to my past, a source of comfort, and a way to bring joy to others.

I will continue to make these cookies for years to come, sharing them with friends and family and passing down the recipe to future generations. Because in the end, it is not just about the cookies themselves, but the memories and traditions that they hold. And for that, I am truly thankful.