Cherry Date Cookies

In the NutriGuide test kitchen, Chief Culinary Specialist Stewart Lucas refined this classic Cherry Date Cookies to celebrate vibrant, wholesome ingredients. By prioritizing aromatic layering and precise thermal control, this recipe achieves remarkable culinary depth while preserving natural micronutrients and wholesome texture.

At NutriGuide, our mission is to ensure that home cooking is both accessible and culinary-grade. When executing Cherry Date Cookies, focus on fresh aromatics, dry surface contact for proper searing, and allowing the food to rest before serving.

• 1 cup shortening
• 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
• 3 eggs
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons hot water
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/2 cup chopped dates
• 1/2 cup quartered maraschino
• cherries

Chef's Sourcing & Quality Tips:

• Produce & Aromatics: Always use fresh whole aromatics and seasonal herbs rather than dehydrated powders when possible.
• Cooking Oils: Utilize cold-pressed oils with appropriate smoke points such as extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil.
• Salt & Seasoning: Season from a modest height above the pan to ensure an even, uniform crystalline dispersion.

Follow these sequential steps with careful attention to sensory cues and cooking temperatures:

Step 1: Technique & Execution

In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and brown sugar

Step 2: Technique & Execution

Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition

Step 3: Technique & Execution

Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with water

Step 4: Technique & Execution

Stir in walnuts, dates and cherries

Step 5: Technique & Execution

Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets

Step 6: Technique & Execution

Bake at 375 degrees F for 8-9 minutes or until golden brown