Linda Aquilina'S Eileen Rocks
Rich, moist cookies packed with raisins and a hint of bourbon, perfect for those craving a sweet treat with a touch of sophistication. Ideal for gatherings or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease cookie sheets lightly with margarine.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Work softened butter in a bowl until creamy.
- Add sugar and blend well. Add eggs and beat well.
- Add sifted dry ingredients alternately with bourbon, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in raisins.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of dough onto cookie sheets, 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until golden.
- Cool on cookie sheets, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want to reduce the sweetness, you can cut the sugar by a third and replace it with unsweetened applesauce. For a twist, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. Sifting the dry ingredients helps to incorporate air, yielding lighter cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies make a perfect snack with coffee or tea, especially alongside Nonnie'S Coffee Cake for a sweet brunch spread. You can also serve them at parties or gatherings; they pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Consider offering a selection of cookies, including Graham Cracker Munchies, for variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the cookies in a zip-top bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linda Aquilina'S Eileen Rocks contains roughly 149 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 5g 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 a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon?
Yes, you can substitute bourbon with whiskey or rum for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that each type of alcohol will impart its unique taste to the cookies. For a non-alcoholic version, use vanilla extract or a splash of apple juice to retain moisture and flavor.
What can I use if I don't have light raisins?
If light raisins are unavailable, you can use dark raisins, currants, or even dried cranberries for a tart twist. Each will alter the flavor slightly, but they all provide a nice chewy texture. Be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly if you opt for a sweeter dried fruit.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be golden brown around the edges and still slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the cookie sheets. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
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).