Alice Smith'S Jumbo Raisin Cookies
Juicy, flavorful jumbo raisin cookies with warm spices and crunchy nuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer raisins in water for 5 minutes.
- Drain the raisins and save 1/2 cup of the liquid.
- Blend shortening, cinnamon, allspice, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add sugar, creaming thoroughly after each addition.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add baking soda to the reserved raisin liquid.
- Add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture alternately with the raisin liquid, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the raisins and chopped nuts.
- Chill the dough.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto a greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, or try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon and allspice. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. Make sure to chill the dough adequately; this helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the flavors. Explore more American recipes for delightful variations.
Serving Suggestions
These jumbo raisin cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They also pair beautifully with creamy desserts like Creamy Peanut Butter Frosting for a decadent treat. Consider serving them at gatherings or as a sweet addition to a holiday cookie platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alice Smith'S Jumbo Raisin Cookies contains roughly 80 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or even mixed dried fruits. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as some fruits may require adjustments to the liquid in the recipe.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven and the size of the cookies.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before dropping it onto the baking sheet, as chilled dough can be a bit stiff.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).