Cream Cheese Date-Filled Cookie Wraps with Orange Walnut
Tender cream cheese pastry wrapped around a spiced date filling creates an elegant cookie perfect for holidays or special occasions. The soft dough encases a mixture of chopped dates, orange peel, and walnuts that's been cooked until jammy and fragrant. These delicate parcels offer a sophisticated alternative to traditional cookies, with their flaky exterior giving way to sweet, citrus-scented filling. The sparkling sugar coating adds a festive touch that makes them ideal for gift-giving or entertaining.
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon water
- 4 teaspoons coarse white sparkling sugar
- 1 box (8 oz) chopped dates
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange peellemon peel1:1citrus
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- ½ teaspoon vanilla
- ¼ cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions
- 1
Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper
- 2
Beat cream cheese, butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually beat in flour
- 3
Form dough into rectangle, wrap and refrigerate until firm
- 4
Cook dates with water and sugar until thickened, then stir in orange peel, vanilla and walnuts
- 5
Heat oven, roll dough into squares and cut into smaller squares
- 6
Place date filling on each square, fold corners over and seal
- 7
Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar
- 8
Bake until edges turn golden brown, then cool completely
Tips
Dip fingers in water when sealing dough corners to ensure they stick together and prevent filling from leaking during baking.
Roll dough on a well-floured surface to prevent sticking, and trim edges with a fluted pastry wheel for a professional appearance.
Cool the date filling for 5 minutes before using to prevent it from being too hot and melting the dough.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months
Can make dough up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate, or assemble cookies and freeze unbaked
Serve at room temperature as an elegant dessert or with coffee
Common Mistakes
Don't skip chilling the dough to avoid tearing when rolling
Seal corners well with water to prevent filling from leaking out
Don't overbake to avoid dry, hard cookies
Substitutions
Nut-Free Alternatives
General Alternatives
different citrus note
FAQ
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the date filling can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before using.
What if my dough tears when rolling?
If dough becomes too soft, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. Work on a well-floured surface and roll gently to prevent tearing.
How long do these cookies keep fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.