Ambrosia Cookies: 7 Sweet Variations You Must Try

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Ambrosia Cookies are sweet and chewy sugar cookies, packed with oatmeal, coconut, pecans, citrus zest, and dried fruit in every bite. These cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie recipe, offering a unique flavor profile that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a festive holiday celebration. The combination of textures and flavors makes them a standout in any dessert spread. Let’s dive into why you’ll love these cookies and how to make them!

Why You’ll Love This Ambrosia Cookies

These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an experience! Here are six reasons to love them:

**Unique Flavor:** The mix of coconut, citrus zest, and dried fruit creates a flavor explosion.
**Chewy Texture:** Thanks to the oatmeal, these cookies have a delightful chewiness.
**Versatile:** They can be made with various nuts or dried fruits.
**Perfect for Sharing:** Ideal for potlucks or as gifts for friends, making them an excellent choice for social events.
**Easy to Make:** With a simple Ambrosia Cookie Recipe, even beginners can whip these up.
**Vegetarian-Friendly:** Suitable for those following a vegetarian diet, making them inclusive for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Ambrosia Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar, plus another ½ cup more for rolling
1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs, well beaten
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon Fiore di Sicilia extract (or use another ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon table salt
1 cup sweetened flake coconut
1 ½ cups rolled oats, uncooked
1 cup chopped pecans
2 cups chopped dried apricots (or other dried fruit such as raisins or dates)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon orange zest

How to Make Ambrosia Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Position oven rack to center of the oven, then preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line cookie sheet(s) with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add both sugars, mixing well until smooth. Add beaten eggs and mix well again. Stir in vanilla and Fiore di Sicilia extracts, and mix once more to combine.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, coconut, oats, pecans, apricots, lemon zest, and orange zest. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Add flour mixture to butter mixture and mix well.
Step 5: Portion cookie dough into balls using a medium scoop (1 ½ teaspoon).
Step 6: Roll each portion into balls, then roll the balls in granulated sugar and place on prepared cookie sheets about two inches apart.
Step 7: Bake for approximately 12 minutes per cookie sheet or until the edges of the cookies are just slightly golden.
Step 8: Cool cookies slightly on baking sheet, then transfer to cooling racks to finish cooling.
Step 9: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Pro Tips for the Best Ambrosia Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh citrus zest for optimal flavor.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it’s too sticky.
For added texture, try using a mix of nuts such as walnuts or almonds.

Best Ways to Serve Ambrosia Cookies

These cookies shine in various settings:

Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
They make fantastic party favors when packaged in decorative bags for holidays or gatherings.
Pair them with ice cream for a delicious dessert twist, especially using Ambrosia Cookies with Cream Cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Ambrosia Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. This is also a great option for meal prep, as you can make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ambrosia Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Ambrosia Cookies?

The secret lies in the balance of ingredients. Ensure you use fresh ingredients, especially the coconut and citrus zest, to enhance the cookie’s overall flavor.

Can I make Ambrosia Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and bake as instructed.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ambrosia Cookies?

Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies. Also, watch the baking time to prevent them from becoming overly crisp.

Variations of Ambrosia Cookies You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with these variations:

Swap out dried apricots for raisins or dates for a different flavor profile.
Add chocolate chips for a more decadent twist.
Experiment with different nuts like almonds or cashews for added crunch.
For a tropical vibe, try adding crushed pineapple to the dough.

For more delicious cookie recipes, check out Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies and Irresistible Thai Red Curry Kabobs. You can also learn about Zucchini Bread for a great side dish!