Ambrosia Cookies
Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that has the perfect balance of chewy and crunchy, with a burst of tropical flavor that transports you straight to a sunny beach. That’s exactly what you’ll get with these delightful Ambrosia Cookies! Packed with sweet coconut, hearty oats, and a medley of rich pecans and fruity dates, these cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Ambrosia Cookies are a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweetness from the sugars and fruits, nuttiness from the pecans, and a hint of zest from the citrus. They are wonderfully versatile, making them perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and they’re sure to impress family and friends with their unique flavor profile.
The Ingredient Lineup
To create these delicious Ambrosia Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – This will give your cookies a rich, buttery flavor and a tender texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the cookies spread.
- 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar – For a deeper flavor and moisture.
- 2 eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – For a warm, sweet aroma.
- 2 cups flour – The base of your cookie dough.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cookies rise.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Provides additional lift and contributes to the cookie’s softness.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- 1 cup sweetened flaked coconut – For that tropical flair and chewy texture.
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats – Adds heartiness and a wonderful chew.
- 1 cup chopped pecans – Provides crunch and nuttiness.
- 2 cups golden raisins or chopped dates – I prefer dates for their rich sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest – For a refreshing, citrusy brightness.
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest – Complements the lemon zest and enhances the flavor.
Gear Checklist
Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
- Electric mixer – To easily cream the butter and sugars.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurements.
- Baking sheets – To bake your cookies on.
- Parchment paper – To prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Cookie scoop – For evenly portioning your cookie dough.
- Cooling rack – To cool your cookies after baking.
Build Ambrosia Cookies Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to create your mouthwatering Ambrosia Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Using a spatula, fold in the sweetened flaked coconut, rolled oats, chopped pecans, golden raisins or chopped dates, lemon zest, and orange zest until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto lined baking sheets, leaving space for the cookies to spread. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy your Ambrosia Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Healthier Substitutions
Want to make your Ambrosia Cookies a bit healthier? Consider these substitutions:
- Whole wheat flour – Use in place of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Coconut oil – Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Natural sweeteners – Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness.
- Reduce sugar – Cut down on sugars by using less sweetened coconut or dates.
Behind the Recipe
Ambrosia Cookies are inspired by the traditional ambrosia salad, known for its tropical flavors and textures. This recipe combines those beloved elements into a cookie that is loaded with indulgence yet remains incredibly satisfying. The use of oats and nuts adds a wholesome element, making these cookies a delightful balance of indulgence and nourishment. Each bite brings back memories of sun-filled days and family gatherings, making them perfect for sharing.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To keep your Ambrosia Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze the cookies. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and they’ll stay delicious for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste!
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the pecans with your favorite nuts such as walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference.
Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) or applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) as an egg substitute.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. If you need them to last longer, consider freezing them.
Can I add chocolate chips to these cookies?
Yes! Adding chocolate chips or chunks would create a delicious contrast to the other ingredients and enhance the flavor even more.
Bring It Home
Now that you have the recipe for Ambrosia Cookies, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re whipping them up for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to please. With their unique combination of ingredients, they bring a delightful twist to traditional cookies. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of fresh-baked cookies fill your kitchen. Enjoy every bite of your Ambrosia Cookies, and don’t forget to share the joy with others!
Ambrosia Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the sweetened flaked coconut, rolled oats, chopped pecans, golden raisins or chopped dates, lemon zest, and orange zest until evenly distributed.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto lined baking sheets, leaving space to spread. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze cookies for up to three months for longer storage.
- Try substituting different nuts for a unique twist!
