Prune and apricot cookies

 

INGREDIENTS 

- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 tsp baking soda

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 3/4 cup white granulated sugar

- 1 cup brown sugar

- 2 large eggs

- 1 cup chopped prunes

- 1 cup chopped dried apricots

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips

INSTRUCTIONS 

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.

4. Stir in flour mixture, then prunes, apricots, and vanilla extract.

5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.

6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.

7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious prune and apricot cookies!

BAKING HACKS 

1. *Soak prunes and apricots*: Soak prunes and apricots in hot water or orange juice for 30 minutes to rehydrate and add extra flavor.

2. *Use browned butter*: Instead of regular butter, brown it in a skillet until it has a nutty aroma and then use it in the dough.

3. *Add spice*: Introduce warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to complement the sweetness of prunes and apricots.

4. *Use a combination of sugars*: Mix white and brown sugar for a richer flavor profile.

5. *Don't overmix*: Mix the dough just until the ingredients come together to prevent tough cookies.

6. *Chill the dough*: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.

7. *Use parchment paper*: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent cookies from spreading too much.

8. *Don't overbake*: Take the cookies out of the oven when they're lightly golden brown and still slightly soft to the touch.

By incorporating these hacks, you'll enhance the flavor, texture, and overall baking experience for your prune and apricot cookies!

NUTRITIONAL BREAKDOWN 

per serving

*Macronutrients:*

- Calories: 120-150

- Protein: 2-3g

- Fat: 6-8g

- Carbohydrates: 18-22g

- Fiber: 2-3g

*Micronutrients:*

- Sodium: 50-100mg

- Sugar: 8-10g

- Potassium: 100-150mg

- Vitamin A: 2-3% of the Daily Value (DV)

- Vitamin C: 2-3% of the DV

- Calcium: 2-3% of the DV

- Iron: 5-7% of the DV

*Other nutrients:*

- Antioxidants: Prunes and apricots are rich in antioxidants, which help protect against cell damage and inflammation.

- Dried fruit: Prunes and apricots provide natural sweetness and chewiness, as well as fiber and antioxidants.

Please note that this breakdown is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. Additionally, it's worth noting that while cookies can be a tasty treat, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.