Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these Chinese chews will become a favorite.
-
Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
-
Ready in under an hour.
-
Sweet and nutty. The perfect texture combination.
-
Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves chewy cookies.
-
Budget-friendly. Dates, walnuts, and pantry staples are inexpensive.
-
Perfect for holidays, cookie swaps, and gifts.
-
Make-ahead friendly.
Ingredients
-
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon baking powder
-
1/2 teaspoon salt
-
1 cup chopped dates
-
3/4 cup chopped walnuts
-
2 eggs
-
1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Ingredient Notes
All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness.
Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly.
Salt: Balances the sweetness.
Dates: Add natural sweetness and chewy texture.
Walnuts: Add nutty crunch.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together.
Powdered sugar: Creates the sweet, snowy coating.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch metal baking dish.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fruit
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Toss the chopped dates and walnuts into the flour mixture, stirring until they are evenly distributed and coated in flour.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Crack the eggs into the bowl. Stir the mixture vigorously until the eggs are completely incorporated and no dry, powdery spots remain.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the sticky batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 24 to 28 minutes. Watch them closely. You want them baked through but still soft. Overbaking will dry them out.
Step 5: Shape and Coat
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool in the pan for exactly 10 minutes. While still warm, slice them into small rectangles. Gently roll each rectangle between your palms, compressing it into a small log shape.
Step 6: Roll in Sugar and Cool
Immediately roll each warm log in the powdered sugar until fully coated. Place the coated chews on a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
How to Serve Chinese Chews
These sweet, chewy cookies are delicious on their own, but a few accompaniments make them even better.
With Coffee: Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
With Ice Cream: Crumble over vanilla ice cream.
As a Gift: Package in decorative bags or tins.
With Fresh Fruit: Serve with berries.
With Milk: Classic cookie pairing.
Variations & Tips
Make Them with Pecans: Substitute walnuts with pecans.
Make Them with Almonds: Use chopped almonds.
Make Them with Dried Cherries: Substitute dates with cherries.
Make Them with Chocolate Chips: Add mini chocolate chips.
Make Them with Coconut: Add shredded coconut.
Make Them with Orange Zest: Add orange zest for brightness.
Make Them with Cinnamon: Add cinnamon to the dough.
Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour.
Make Them Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not overbake. The cookies should be soft.
Roll them while warm. They are easier to shape.
Coat generously in powdered sugar. This adds sweetness.
Store in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different fruit?
Yes. Dried cherries or raisins can be used.
Can I use a different nut?
Yes. Pecans or almonds can be used.
Can I use a different flour?
Yes. Gluten-free flour can be used.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do they last?
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Why are my cookies dry?
They were overbaked. Bake until just set.
Can I add more sweetness?
Yes. Add extra sugar.
Can I use a different pan?
Yes. A 9×9-inch pan can be used.
Can I make these without nuts?
Yes. Omit the walnuts.
The Beauty of Old-Fashioned Cookies
There is something deeply satisfying about a classic, old-fashioned cookie. It is the kind of treat that brings back memories. These Chinese chews are a celebration of all those things.
Keep flour, sugar, and baking powder in your pantry. Keep dates and walnuts in your cupboard. Keep eggs in your fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 24–28 minutes
Cooling Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 12 to 15 cookies