I absolutely adore making and sharing this nostalgic treat that’s been a cherished favorite for years — the Chinese Chews Recipe. These little squares of sweetness, packed with chopped dates and crunchy walnuts, have that perfect balance of chewy texture and rich flavor that keep me coming back for more. Whenever I whip up this dessert, the whole kitchen smells like home, and I can’t wait to share these delightful bites with friends and family. It’s one of those vintage sweets that feels comforting and special all at once.
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Chews Recipe
What I love most about this Chinese Chews Recipe is the incredible flavor harmony it delivers. The natural sweetness of the dates blends beautifully with the slightly crunchy walnuts creating a luscious chewiness that’s just irresistible. Plus, the little dusting of powdered sugar on the outside adds that perfect gentle sweetness and a touch of elegance to each bite. To me, it’s just a cozy dessert that feels a little nostalgic but tastes fresh and satisfying every single time.
Another reason I’m so enthusiastic about this recipe is how genuinely easy it is to make. The ingredients are simple pantry staples and the steps straightforward, so I can whip it up quickly whether I’m planning for a casual afternoon treat or a holiday dessert table centerpiece. It’s perfect for sharing with company, at family dinners, or even as a sweet snack through the week. This recipe stands out because it’s humble yet unexpectedly luxurious — the kind of classic dessert that always makes me smile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of simple ingredients that combine into something truly special. Each one plays a key role in creating the chewy texture, rich flavor, and inviting look of these treats.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: This gives the chews their structure while keeping them tender.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and a little texture to the batter.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the chews rise slightly for a soft but firm bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering the sweet notes.
- 1 cup chopped dates: Brings natural sweetness and a wonderful chewy element.
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts: Adds a toasty crunch and rich, nutty flavor.
- 2 eggs: Bind everything together for the perfect consistency.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For rolling, giving the chews that classic, pretty finish.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and generously grease an 8×8-inch metal baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal later.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This not only combines everything evenly but also helps avoid clumps, giving you a smooth batter.
Step 3: Next, fold in the chopped dates and walnuts. I like to make sure these are well distributed so that every bite gets a bit of that yummy chew and crunch.
Step 4: Crack the eggs into the mixture and stir thoroughly, ensuring no dry spots remain. The batter will become sticky and thick, which is just right for these chews.
Step 5: Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 24 to 28 minutes. Keep a close eye after 24 minutes because you want the edges set but the middle still slightly soft for that perfect chew. Overbaking makes rolling difficult.
Step 6: Once out of the oven, let the chews cool for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully slice them into small rectangles. Using your hands, roll each piece into a firm log shape, compressing slightly to bring out that chewy texture.
Step 7: Roll each log in powdered sugar until fully coated, which adds a nice finish and prevents sticking. Allow the chews to cool completely before serving or storing.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields about 12 servings, making it perfect for sharing with family or a small gathering of friends. Prep time is quick — around 10 to 15 minutes to mix everything up. The baking time is about 24 to 28 minutes, and then you need another 10 to 15 minutes of cooling and rolling time. All in all, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes from start to finish, which is quite manageable for a homemade sweet treat.
How to Serve This Chinese Chews Recipe
Whenever I serve these Chinese Chews, I like to keep it simple so their rich flavor can shine through. They’re fantastic enjoyed alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee, which complements their sweetness perfectly. For a more festive touch, I sometimes plate them with a few fresh berries or a spoonful of whipped cream on the side to add a fresh contrast.
If I’m serving these at a party or holiday gathering, I like to arrange them on a decorative platter dusted with a little extra powdered sugar. They look charming and inviting presented in neat little rows. Because of their size and richness, I usually recommend serving two or three pieces per person — enough to savor without feeling overwhelmed.
When it comes to beverages, a light, slightly sweet Riesling or a mellow spiced tea pairs beautifully for those looking for an alcoholic or non-alcoholic companion. They’re great served at room temperature or slightly chilled, depending on your preference or the season. I’ve found they’re wonderfully flexible for any occasion, whether a casual weeknight treat or a more special dessert course.
Variations
One of the fun things about this Chinese Chews Recipe is how easy it is to customize. For instance, I sometimes swap out walnuts for pecans or almonds if I want a different nutty flavor or texture. If you’re gluten-free, using a gluten-free flour blend works well without sacrificing the chewiness and flavor.
For a vegan twist, replacing the eggs with flax eggs (ground flaxseed mixed with water) is a handy substitute, though the texture will be just a little softer. You can also tweak the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the dry ingredients, giving the chews a warm spice note that feels extra cozy during cooler months.
If you want to get creative beyond baking, I’ve even experimented with pan-frying cut squares lightly in a non-stick skillet. This gives a slightly crispy edge while keeping the middle delightfully chewy — a fun twist for a different texture experience.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
After these chews have fully cooled, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh and chewy for up to 4 to 5 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work well, and lining them with parchment paper prevents sticking and helps maintain that lovely powdered sugar finish.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, Chinese Chews freeze beautifully. I wrap individual logs tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature — no need to defrost in the microwave, which can affect the texture.
Reheating
These chews are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly warmed. If you want to warm them up a bit, I recommend placing them in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F) for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving directly as it can make them too soft or chewy in an unpleasant way. Gently warming helps restore their moist chewiness and brings out the walnut aroma beautifully.
FAQs
What makes these called Chinese Chews?
The name “Chinese Chews” comes from a vintage recipe name that’s been passed down through generations. While the origins may seem a bit mysterious, the name reflects the chewy texture and sweet flavor that this classic treat is known for, rather than its geographic origin.
Can I substitute the dates with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can swap dates for dried apricots, raisins, or even dried figs. Just make sure to chop them finely so they mix well into the batter and maintain the chewy consistency you want.
How do I know when the chews are done baking?
Look for golden edges and a set center that’s still slightly soft to the touch. Overbaking will dry them out and make rolling difficult. Stick to the 24 to 28 minute range and test gently with a toothpick — it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
Are these chews gluten-free?
The original recipe uses all-purpose flour which contains gluten, but you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose blend to make this treat gluten-free without compromising texture or taste.
Can I make these chews ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making them a day ahead improves their flavor and texture as the dates and walnuts meld beautifully. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature after rolling and coating with powdered sugar, and they’ll be ready to serve when you need them.
Conclusion
Now that you know how simple and delicious this Chinese Chews Recipe is, I encourage you to give it a try. I always find making and sharing these nostalgic treats brings a little extra warmth and joy to the day. Whether you enjoy them with tea, share them at your next gathering, or just savor them slowly on your own, these chews are sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen too!
