Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly

[dropcap]W[/dropcap]intertime in Arizona means citrus trees bursting with fruits and an abundance of dates! Sugared oranges and sweet dates, combined with toasted pecans and oats, make for a perfectly chewy, unexpected cookie that everyone is sure to love!

Ingredients:

2 1/4 c. all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. sea salt

1 c. oats

1 c. softened grass-fed butter

1 1/2 c. brown sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

1 tbsp. fresh orange juice

1 tbsp. orange zest

1 c. chopped dates

1 c. toasted pecans

1 c. candied oranges (optional but highly recommended!)

 

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine flour, baking soda and salt in a bowl and whisk. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar with electric mixer until fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla, juice and zest. Mix well.

Add dry ingredients and mix until combined. Add chopped dates, toasted pecans and chopped candied orange. Stir in oats until ingredients are evenly distributed.

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop dough onto parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt and let cool.

Chef’s Notes: Candied orange slices are available at Trader Joe’s, and are absolutely delicious! Drizzle with melted white or regular chocolate chips for a pretty design and extra flavor!

kyndraclaire.com