Sweet Date Cookies

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Soft, chewy, and delightfully rich, these Sweet Date Cookies are the kind of treat that hits the sweet spot between nostalgic comfort and wholesome goodness. Bursting with naturally sweet dates, warm cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla, they feel like a hug in cookie form. They’re not just a dessert—they’re an experience that pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a cold glass of milk.

Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly evening or need a fuss-free crowd-pleaser for your next get-together, these cookies will rise to the occasion. They are incredibly easy to make, freezer-friendly, and fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Date Cookie Recipe

These cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with dates in every bite. The brown sugar deepens the flavor, while chopped pecans add a crunchy contrast. They’re naturally rich, not overly sweet, and keep well for days. Plus, you don’t need a mixer—just a bowl, spoon, and some pantry basics.

What Kind of Dates Should I Use?

Medjool dates are ideal for this recipe. They’re large, soft, and easy to chop, with a rich caramel-like taste that blends perfectly into baked goods. If you use Deglet Noor or other firmer types, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using to help soften them up.

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Ingredients

• Chopped pitted dates – the star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and a chewy texture.
• All-purpose flour – forms the structure of the cookie.
• Unsalted butter – adds rich flavor and moisture.
• Brown sugar – enhances the cookie with a warm, molasses-like sweetness.
• Granulated sugar – balances the brown sugar and helps with spreading.
• Egg – binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Baking soda – leavening agent for light texture.
• Salt – balances the sweetness.
• Vanilla extract – enhances flavor depth.
• Chopped pecans – adds crunch and nutty richness (optional but recommended).
• Ground cinnamon – adds a warm, spiced note.

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How To Make the Sweet Date Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Whisk in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated.

Step 4: Fold in the Dates and Pecans

Stir in the chopped dates and pecans until evenly distributed in the dough.

Step 5: Scoop and Shape

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and centers are set. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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How to Serve Sweet Date Cookies

These cookies are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, served warm or at room temperature. This batch makes about 18 cookies, and can easily serve 6 to 8 people depending on how generously they’re shared.

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Storing These Cookies the Right Way

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them even longer, freeze them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Let thaw at room temp or warm in the microwave for a fresh-baked feel.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
Yes, but it will make the cookies denser. For best results, use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

Are these cookies very sweet?
They are naturally sweet from the dates, balanced by warm spices and mild sugar content. They’re not overly sugary.

Can I leave out the pecans?
Absolutely. If you’re nut-free or simply not a fan, you can skip them or swap with sunflower seeds.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Scoop onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store in a bag. Bake straight from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

Can I make these vegan?
Swap the butter with vegan butter and the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Sweet Date Cookies, you’ll definitely want to try these other unique cookie creations:

• Small Batch Almond Joy Cookies for coconut and chocolate lovers.
• Lemon Churro Cookies with citrus zing and cinnamon warmth.
• Vanilla Pecan Pralines for that melt-in-your-mouth nutty delight.
• Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Cookies if you’re craving crunch and cocoa.
• Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies for the ultimate indulgence.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use Medjool or try something new? Swap pecans for walnuts? Add a dash of nutmeg?

I love hearing how others make these cookies their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

For more dessert inspiration and daily recipe ideas, check out Life With Livia on Pinterest!

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