Dorothy Bittner'S "He-Man" Cookies
Chewy, raisin-packed cookies with warm spices and crunchy nuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and ideal for cookie exchanges or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil raisins in water for 3 minutes; then cool.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla to the creamed mixture and blend well.
- Stir in the cooled raisins and the water used to boil them.
- Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in the chopped nuts.
- Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider substituting half of the raisins with chopped dates or dried cranberries. If you want a richer flavor, use butter instead of shortening. You can also add a pinch of cloves for extra warmth. Ensure your baking soda and powder are fresh for optimal rising. For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips alongside the nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after dinner. They pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. Consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also make a great addition to dessert platters at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, place cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dorothy Bittner'S "He-Man" Cookies contains roughly 1189 calories, with 8g protein, 151g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2285mg per serving (99% 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 other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or even dried figs. Each fruit will bring its unique flavor to the cookies while still maintaining the chewy texture.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, unsalted butter is a great alternative. It will add a richer flavor to the cookies. You can also use coconut oil for a dairy-free option, just make sure it's in a solid state when mixing.
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 may vary slightly based on your oven.
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).