Hermits(Portuguese)
Hermits are chewy, spiced cookies filled with raisins and nuts, offering warm flavors of cinnamon and cloves. Perfect for tea or coffee, they appeal to those who enjoy rich, nostalgic baked treats with a hint of sweetness and spice, making them a delightful addition to any cookie platter.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, eggs, milk, raisins, flour, shortening, baking soda, chopped nuts, and spices in a mixing bowl.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a buttered baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, which adds a hint of molasses. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter or coconut oil. Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or pecans, and if you want a spice boost, add a pinch of nutmeg. Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep your hermits tender.
Serving Suggestions
Hermits are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with Nana Puddin for a comforting dessert spread. You can also drizzle a light glaze over them for added sweetness or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover hermits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until they are soft and fragrant.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hermits(Portuguese) contains roughly 186 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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 dried apricots, or even chopped dates can work well as substitutes for raisins in this recipe, adding different flavors and textures to your hermits.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If you find that your batter is too thick, you can add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency. This will help ensure the hermits bake evenly.
Can I make these ahead of time for an event?
Yes, hermits can be made ahead of time! They store well, so you can bake them a few days in advance. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
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).