"Gertie'S Cookies"
Sweet, nutty raisin cookies with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, perfect for snacks or desserts, appealing to those who enjoy rich, homemade baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add water to raisins and boil for 5 minutes.
- Cool the raisin mixture.
- Stir in baking soda and let stand.
- Cream shortening and sugar together.
- Add vanilla, beaten eggs, and cooled raisins with liquid.
- Sift flour with baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then add to the mixture.
- Stir in nuts if desired.
- Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet.
- Bake in a 425°F oven for 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the Crisco with butter. If you're short on time, you can use pre-soaked raisins or add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist. Make sure to let the raisin mixture cool completely before adding it to avoid cooking the eggs. For added texture, try adding oats or experimenting with different nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be paired with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a comforting treat. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or use them as a topping for a Pudding Topper. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters or as a sweet snack during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store Gertie's Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, allowing them to regain their softness without becoming overly dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Gertie'S Cookies" contains roughly 386 calories, with 5g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% 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 other dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or dates for different flavors and textures. Just chop larger fruits into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the cookie dough.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough, making it easier to scoop and shape. You can also add a little extra flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can make Gertie's Cookies vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and using a plant-based shortening instead of Crisco. They will still be delicious and satisfying!
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).