| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 12 mins – 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 11g | 7g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 18g | 2g | 3g | 0.25g |
A Sweet Connection to Family and Tradition
There’s something incredibly special about diving into a batch of Spiced Persimmon Cookies. For me, it’s like being wrapped in a blanket of familial love and nostalgia. These cookies combine the cozy spiced notes that feel like a warm hug from my Irish grandmother, and the fruit-forward sweetness that could easily be found in a quaint New England bakery.
Every ingredient in Spiced Persimmon Cookies is like a chapter in a joyous family story. The ripe persimmons are the hero, imparting a fresh, almost honey-like sweetness. Paired with aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, they transport me back to holidays spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, where the air was always thick with delicious scents and heartfelt laughter.
Wholesome Ingredients, Heartfelt Benefits
Beyond the sentimental value, these cookies pack some health benefits you might not expect from a baked treat. Persimmons are a powerhouse of vitamins and antioxidants, offering more fiber per serving than apples, which makes them great for digestion. The spices also bring their own set of advantages. For instance, cinnamon helps to regulate blood sugar levels, while cloves have anti-inflammatory properties. The optional walnuts add a satisfying crunch and are packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
My fiancée Laura and our baby boy are also a huge inspiration for these cookies. Laura loves how easy and versatile the recipe is, especially when entertaining since you can throw in raisins or nuts based on guest preferences. And let’s not forget the little one – these cookies are a hit with kids too, making them a wonderful family-friendly treat.
Perfect Pairings and Related Dishes
If you’re looking to create a harmonious spread, Spiced Persimmon Cookies go wonderfully with a hot cup of Irish Breakfast Tea or a chilled glass of milk. They can even serve as a unique addition to a dessert platter with complementary treats like ginger snaps or lemon bars. If you love these cookies, you might also enjoy our Cranberry Oatmeal Bars, which share that blend of fruitiness and comforting spice.
So next time you’re craving a comforting yet refined treat, give these Spiced Persimmon Cookies a try. Not only will they fill your home with delectable aromas, but they might just become a cherished family favorite, as they have in mine.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup finely chopped ripe persimmons
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step Two
In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped ripe persimmons and baking soda. Mix well and set aside. The mixture may foam up a bit, which is normal.
Step Three
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
Step Four
Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat well until fully incorporated.
Step Five
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg.
Step Six
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step Seven
Stir in the persimmon mixture until evenly incorporated. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts and raisins.
Step Eight
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of the spoon.
Step Nine
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
