Johanne Day'S Hermits

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Cuisine: American

Johanne Day's Hermits are spiced, chewy cookies with molasses and warm cinnamon flavors, perfect for cozy gatherings or as a nostalgic treat for all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup salad oil
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix milk and molasses together.
  2. Mix all dry ingredients with oil.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the two mixtures, alternately.
  4. Bake on a cookie sheet in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you want to lighten the recipe, you can substitute half of the salad oil with unsweetened applesauce. Ensure that the mixture is well-combined to avoid a dry texture. If you enjoy spice, try adding a pinch of ginger or allspice for an extra kick. These hermits can also benefit from chopped nuts or dried fruits.

Serving Suggestions

These hermits make a delightful snack or dessert served with tea or coffee. Try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a treat. For a heartier option, serve alongside a bowl of Five Minute Corn Soup for a cozy meal. They are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat any time of day.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover hermits 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, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This will help restore their chewy texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Johanne Day'S Hermits contains roughly 1566 calories, with 8g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 138g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2204mg per serving (96% of the Daily Value).

1566 kcal 78% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.8g 16% DV
Total Fat 138.3g 100% DV
Carbs 80.2g 29% DV
Fiber 4.1g 15% DV
Sugar 22.1g 44% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2204.4mg 96% DV
Potassium 341.7mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 3.3mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 56.4mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 26.5mg 29% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 210.3mg 16% DV
Iron 4.4mg 24% DV
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 in this recipe. However, the texture may be denser, so consider adding a tablespoon of water or milk to the mixture to maintain moisture. This adjustment will help keep your hermits soft and chewy.

How do I know when the hermits are done baking?

The hermits are done baking when they are golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. They will continue to firm up slightly as they cool, so avoid over-baking to keep them moist. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.

Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a great way to enhance the flavor of your hermits. Fold in about 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter just before baking. This addition will create a delightful contrast with the spices and sweetness of the hermits.

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).

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