Chinese Chews are one of those old‑fashioned recipes that make you pause and wonder about the name. First published in Good Housekeeping back in 1917, these little sweets have been around for more than a century. Despite the title, they have no ties to Chinese cuisine—just a classic American recipe that found its way into community cookbooks and holiday cookie trays.

Somewhere between a cookie and a candy, these chews are simple and unfussy. No butter, no frosting, no fancy flavorings—just flour, sugar, eggs, dates, and walnuts baked into a chewy bar. The dates bring natural sweetness and a sticky texture, while the walnuts add crunch.

They became especially popular at Christmastime, when home bakers needed recipes that were economical, easy, and sturdy enough to store in tins. After baking, the bars are sliced, rolled by hand, and coated in powdered sugar—a finish that keeps them from sticking together and makes them perfect for gifting.

Sweet but not overwhelming, nostalgic yet timeless, Chinese Chews are a vintage recipe that still earns a spot in the holiday lineup today.

🍬 Chinese Chews (Vintage Date & Nut Treats)

📝 Ingredients

🔪 Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8‑inch metal baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir in dates and walnuts.
3. Add eggs and mix until no dry spots remain.
4. Transfer batter to prepared dish. Bake 24–28 minutes, being careful not to overbake.
5. Cool 10 minutes, then slice into small rectangles. Roll gently into log shapes.
6. Coat each piece in powdered sugar. Cool completely before storing.
7. Store in an airtight container.