Grandma’s Crispy Date and Pecan Cookies Recipe: Tips & Variations

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Grandmas Crispy Date and Pecan Cookies RecipeDate and pecan cookies hold a special place in many people’s hearts, bringing back memories of home-baked goodness and family gatherings. These delightful cookies are cherished for their irresistible crunch and the perfect blend of sweet dates and nutty pecans. Inspired by classic recipes, Grandma’s Crispy Date and Pecan Cookies add a modern twist while keeping the nostalgic flavors intact. Whether you’re a fan of Mary Berry’s date slices or seeking a crispy date slice reminiscent of old-fashioned treats, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

To create these delectable cookies, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup (150g) of chopped dates: Dates provide a natural sweetness and chewy texture to the cookies.
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) of water: Used to soften the dates, making them easier to mix into the cookie dough.
  • 1 cup (200g) of granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the perfect crispy texture.
  • 1/2 cup (113g) of unsalted butter, softened: The richness of butter adds flavor and helps achieve the desired crispiness.
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
  • 1 large egg: Provides structure and binding to the dough.
  • 1 1/4 cups (160g) of all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie dough.
  • 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become light and airy.
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
  • 1 cup (100g) of chopped pecans: Adds a delightful nutty crunch to each bite.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Date Mixture

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped dates and water.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the dates soften and form a thick paste.
  3. Remove from heat and let the date mixture cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and egg to the sugar-butter mixture, and beat until well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 3: Incorporate Dates and Pecans

  1. Fold the cooled date mixture and chopped pecans into the cookie dough, ensuring even distribution.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Cookies

  1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  2. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon to ensure even baking.
  3. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

  1. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
  2. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
  3. Enjoy Grandma’s Crispy Date and Pecan Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Perfect Cookies

  • Soften the butter properly: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • Chill the dough: For more defined shapes, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
  • Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweet cookies, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup.

Delicious Variations

  • Mary Berry Date Slices: Replace pecans with walnuts and add a touch of cinnamon for a variation reminiscent of Mary Berry’s classic date slices.
  • Crispy Date Slice: Roll out the dough and cut it into bars for a crispy date slice variation.
  • Old-Fashioned Date Slices: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg to evoke the flavors of traditional old-fashioned date slices.
  • School Date Slice Recipe: Incorporate oats and desiccated coconut for a school-date slice twist.
  • Cornflake Date Slice: Roll the dough in crushed cornflakes before baking for an extra crispy texture.
  • Date Slice with Chocolate and Cornflakes: Add chocolate chips and crushed cornflakes to the dough for a delightful chocolate-infused twist.
  • Healthy Rice Crispy Treats with Dates: Replace flour with rice flour and use almond butter for a gluten-free and healthier version.
  • Chocolate Date Slice Recipe: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies once cooled for an indulgent treat.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (1 cookie, approximately):

  • Calories: 150
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Protein: 2g

Grandma’s Crispy Date and Pecan Cookies offer a delightful combination of sweetness and crunch, making them a must-try for cookie lovers. With a touch of nostalgia and a sprinkle of modern flair, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of Mary Berry’s date slices or seeking a crispy date slice reminiscent of old-fashioned treats, this recipe has something for everyone. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures in the comments section below, and tag us on social media with your cookie creations.

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