B.C.H. Hermits
Golden-brown hermit bars with rich molasses, warm cinnamon, and chewy raisins and nuts, perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 360°F (182°C).
- Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon together and set aside.
- Cream together the Crisco and light brown sugar until well blended.
- Add molasses, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
- Gradually mix in the sifted dry ingredients until combined.
- Fold in raisins and chopped walnuts.
- Shape the dough into flattened logs (about 2 per cookie sheet).
- Bake for 5 to 8 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and cool slightly.
- Cut each log into bars with a pizza wheel or knife.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you want to reduce the fat content, you can substitute half of the Crisco with unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients to avoid clumps and ensure even mixing. To enhance the spice profile, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger, which complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
These hermits are perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert. Serve them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful pairing. For a festive touch, consider dusting them with powdered sugar or drizzling with a simple glaze. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters alongside treats like Mary'S Chocolate Oat Chip Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover hermits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of B.C.H. Hermits contains roughly 424 calories, with 4g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 845mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of fat instead of Crisco?
Yes, you can substitute Crisco with an equal amount of unsalted butter or margarine. This will give your hermits a more traditional flavor. Just keep in mind that using butter may slightly alter the texture, making them a bit more tender and flavorful.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you prefer a different fruit, dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots work well as substitutes for raisins. They add a lovely tartness that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar. You can also experiment with chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
How do I know when the hermits are done baking?
The hermits are done when they turn a light golden brown on the edges and feel firm to the touch. They should still be soft in the center, as they will continue to firm up while cooling. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
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).