Soft Raisin Cookies
Soft raisin cookies bursting with sweet raisins and warm cinnamon, complemented by crunchy walnuts. Perfect for snack time, parties, or a comforting homemade treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine raisins and water in a small saucepan; bring to a boil.
- Cook for 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool, do not drain.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the shortening.
- Gradually add sugar, then eggs and vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Stir in chopped walnuts and the raisins with water.
- Drop teaspoonfuls onto greased baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 14 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. If you're looking to reduce sugar, using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup can work well, but adjust the liquid content accordingly. For added texture, try incorporating oats or using a mix of nuts, such as pecans or almonds. When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level off for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
These soft raisin cookies pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. For a delightful dessert spread, serve alongside other treats like Grandma Herring's Blackberry Cake or American recipes like Yankee Banana Nut Bread. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to restore softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soft Raisin Cookies contains roughly 2399 calories, with 13g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 163g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (57% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 other types of dried fruit instead of raisins?
Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or even dried cherries. Just keep in mind that different fruits will change the flavor profile slightly, so choose one that complements your taste preferences.
Are there any vegan substitutions for this recipe?
Yes! To make this recipe vegan, replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water, and use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil. Ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
How can I make these cookies more chewy?
To achieve a chewier texture, try reducing the baking time slightly or adding a tablespoon of molasses or honey to the dough. This will enhance moisture and create that desirable chewy bite. Additionally, using brown sugar instead of white sugar can help with chewiness.
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).