Hobnails
Hobnails are delightful spiced cookies featuring raisins and cinnamon, offering a comforting, sweet flavor perfect for tea time or holiday treats. They appeal to those who enjoy classic baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and light brown sugar together.
- Add beaten egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Sift together flour, soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition.
- Fold in raisins gently.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of light brown sugar. If you want to reduce fat, you can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. Ensure the raisins are plump; soaking them in warm water or rum for 10-15 minutes can enhance their texture and flavor. Don't skip sifting the dry ingredients to ensure a light and airy cookie.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy Hobnails as a delightful afternoon snack or dessert. They pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a more filling treat, serve alongside Teresa'S French Toast - Strawberry for a brunch spread. They also make great additions to a dessert platter with other cookies or baked goods.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Hobnails in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their freshness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hobnails contains roughly 798 calories, with 5g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and potassium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1945mg per serving (85% 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 a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use granulated sugar instead of light brown sugar. However, the cookies will be less chewy and have a different flavor profile. If you prefer a darker taste, try using dark brown sugar for a richer, molasses-like flavor.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added for an extra crunch. Just make sure to measure them out and fold them into the dough along with the raisins. This addition works well and complements the flavors nicely.
What can I use instead of shortening?
You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer taste. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, coconut oil can also be used, but it may impart a slight coconut flavor to the cookies.
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).