Sally'S Washboard Cookies
Washboard Cookies are classic, chewy treats with a delightful mix of raisins and nuts, perfect for cookie lovers seeking a nostalgic homemade snack anyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugars until smooth.
- Beat in the well-beaten eggs and mix well.
- Sift together flour, soda, and cream of tartar.
- Set aside a small amount of the dry mixture to dredge the raisins.
- Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, then fold in raisins, vanilla, lemon extract, and nuts.
- Mix well and shape the dough into small balls.
- Press each ball with a fork to create a washboard pattern.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer cookie, consider reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra egg yolk. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you don’t have raisins, chopped dried apricots or cranberries work well. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or use seeds like sunflower seeds instead.
Serving Suggestions
These washboard cookies are delightful on their own, but you can serve them alongside a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They also pair nicely with desserts like Layered Coconut Pecan Squares or a slice of Orange Cocoa Cake With Orange Buttercream Frosting for a varied treat platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for a soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sally'S Washboard Cookies contains roughly 314 calories, with 2g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (20% 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 start with a 50% substitution to maintain the texture. Whole wheat flour will make the cookies denser and give a nuttier flavor, so adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they bake properly.
Can I add different spices to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of the cookies. Start with a teaspoon of your chosen spice and adjust to your taste. Just be cautious not to overpower the delicate flavors of the extracts already included.
How do I make these cookies vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a vegan shortening. Additionally, ensure that the sugars you use are vegan-friendly, as some sugars may be processed with bone char.
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).