Hermits
Hermits are delightful, spiced cookie bars that combine the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice with the sweetness of raisins and the crunch of nuts. Perfect for gatherings or as a comforting treat, these bars offer a nostalgic flavor profile that appeals to both young and old alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine, then add sugar and eggs.
- Beat well.
- Dissolve baking soda in the milk, then add it along with the sifted dry ingredients, nuts, and raisins.
- Spread the mixture in a large greased cookie pan.
- Sprinkle sugar over the top.
- Bake at 350° for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute half of the raisins with dried cranberries for a tart twist. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts altogether. Sifting the dry ingredients helps to aerate the mixture, leading to a lighter texture. This recipe is versatile; feel free to add chocolate chips or other dried fruits.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hermits warm or at room temperature, perfect as a snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful breakfast option, enjoy them alongside yogurt or fresh fruit. These sweet treats also complement a cheese platter, adding a satisfying sweetness to your savory selections.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover hermits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hermits contains roughly 418 calories, with 7g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1002mg per serving (44% 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 it may result in a denser texture. To maintain a lighter consistency, consider using a mix of both flours. Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, making it a healthier choice.
What can I replace if I don't have allspice?
If you don't have allspice on hand, you can mix equal parts ground cinnamon and nutmeg as a substitute. Alternatively, a combination of ground cloves and cinnamon can also work well. This will keep the warm, spicy profile of the hermits intact while allowing you to use what's available in your pantry.
Is it possible to make hermits vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Use a vegan butter alternative in place of margarine, and ensure the sugar is vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy these delightful treats while adhering to a vegan diet.
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).