"Hermits" Ii
Hermits are moist, spiced raisin cookies with warm cinnamon and cloves, perfect for cozy afternoons and satisfying sweet cravings for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil raisins 20 minutes in a small amount of water; drain.
- Cream margarine and sugar, add beaten egg and beat well.
- Sift dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, cloves, and baking soda.
- Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
- Stir in the boiled raisins.
- Spread the batter in a greased 9-inch square pan.
- Sprinkle the top with sugar.
- Bake for 30 minutes in a 350°F oven.
- Cool and cut into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider soaking the raisins in warm water or even a splash of rum before boiling. If you're out of margarine, unsalted butter can work as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the texture. For a twist, try adding chopped nuts or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter. These hermits are also delicious with a sprinkle of nutmeg for an extra spice kick.
Serving Suggestions
These hermits can be enjoyed as a delightful snack or dessert. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon break. For a more indulgent experience, pair them with a scoop of Homemade Ice Cream(Low Calorie). They also make a great addition to lunchboxes or as a sweet treat during picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hermits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to restore their softness. Enjoy them warm for a comforting treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Hermits" Ii contains roughly 223 calories, with 3g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 755mg per serving (33% 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! Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chopped apricots can be excellent substitutes for raisins in this recipe. Each will impart its unique flavor, giving a different twist to the hermits while maintaining the same chewy texture.
What can I do if my batter is too dry?
If your batter seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to moisten it. It's important to mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can affect the final texture of the hermits.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make these hermits gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This will help maintain the structure and moisture without compromising on taste. Be sure to check the labels to ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
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).