Easy Hermits
Chewy, spicy hermit cookies with raisins, featuring warm spices and rich molasses flavor, perfect for holiday treats or cozy snacking with a cup of tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Beat sugar, shortening, molasses, and egg until smooth.
- Mix together spices, salt, baking soda, flour, and raisins.
- Add the dry ingredients and raisins to the sugar mixture, along with water, to make a soft dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for approximately 10 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Cool on wire racks before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer texture, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. You can also substitute honey for molasses if you prefer a lighter flavor. To enhance the spices, try toasting them briefly before adding to the dough. If you want to add more texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a twist that kids will love, similar to Whoopie Pies And Icing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful hermits with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making for a delightful dessert. For a fun twist, try crumbling them over yogurt for a quick breakfast. Explore more American recipes for a full meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover hermits 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 for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Hermits contains roughly 211 calories, with 2g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and potassium (12% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture will be denser. To maintain moisture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of water or molasses. This substitution can also enhance the nutritional value of your hermits, making them a healthier option.
How can I make these hermits gluten-free?
To make gluten-free hermits, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for proper binding. The spices and other ingredients remain the same, allowing you to enjoy these treats without gluten while keeping the delicious flavors intact.
Can I add other dried fruits instead of raisins?
Absolutely! Feel free to replace raisins with dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a different flavor profile. This not only adds variety but also enhances the visual appeal of your hermits. Adjust the quantity based on your preference, and enjoy the new twists on this classic recipe.
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).