Fruit Cocktail Drop Cookies

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 cup chopped pitted dates
• 1/2 cup chopped raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries

Preparation Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooling Time:

• 10 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 1 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the vanilla and eggs one at a time, then stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add the walnuts, pecans, dates, raisins, and cranberries and mix well.
5. Drop the batter by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information:

Per cookie (without walnuts or pecans):

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 31g
• Protein: 3g

Dish Characteristics:

• Soft and chewy
• Filled with a variety of dried fruits and nuts
• Warm and satisfying dessert

User Comments:

• "These cookies are so delicious and easy to make! I love the combination of fruits and nuts."
• "My family raved about these cookies. They're perfect for Christmas or any special occasion."
• "I've made these cookies several times and they always turn out perfect. They're my go-to dessert when I need something quick and easy."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have parchment paper, you can spray the baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
• The cookies may spread slightly during baking, so be sure to space them properly on the baking sheet.
• If you want a chewier cookie, bake for a minute or two longer.