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Date Pinwheel Cookies

These delightful Date Pinwheel Cookies are filled with a sweet, sticky mixture of dates and walnuts wrapped in buttery dough, perfect for sharing during any gathering or celebration.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 90
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup softened butter lends a creamy richness to the dough
  • 1 cup light brown sugar adds sweetness and depth
  • 1 large egg helps bind the dough
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract adds flavor
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled for accuracy
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda enhances flavor profile
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt enhances flavor profile
Filling Ingredients
  • 3/4 lb moist pitted dates, finely chopped the star of the filling
  • 1/3 cup sugar for sweetness in filling
  • 1/3 cup water to help create the filling
  • 3/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped adds a delightful crunch

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cream the softened butter and light brown sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy for about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Combining Dry Ingredients
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  2. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, first mixing on low speed, then using your hands to knead until fully combined.
Chilling the Dough
  1. Divide the dough into two equal portions and wrap each tightly in plastic wrap.
  2. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Preparing the Date Filling
  1. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped pitted dates, water, and sugar.
  2. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until the dates soften and the sugar dissolves.
  3. Cook until the mixture reaches a thick jam-like consistency, then stir in the finely chopped walnuts and set aside to cool.
Rolling Out the Dough
  1. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and place one half on a sheet of parchment paper.
  2. Using a floured rolling pin, roll it out into an 11 x 7-inch rectangle.
  3. Repeat with the second half of the dough.
Assembling the Cookies
  1. Divide the cooled date and nut filling between the dough rectangles, spreading it evenly over the surface.
  2. Starting from one of the longer edges, use the parchment paper to help roll the dough tightly.
  3. Pinch the edges to seal, and wrap the logs in the parchment paper.
  4. Refrigerate again for several hours or until they are firm.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Once the logs are firm, slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
  3. Place the slices on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned around the edges.

Notes

Use fresh dates for the best flavor and texture. Ensure to chill the dough sufficiently to prevent spreading during baking. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Experiment with different varieties of dates for unique flavors.