Soft Spicy Hermits
Soft Spicy Hermits are chewy, spiced cookies with raisins and walnuts, offering warm cinnamon and molasses flavors, perfect for cozy snacking or holiday treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream salad oil and sugar together until well blended.
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add the molasses and milk alternately to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the raisins and walnuts.
- Spread the batter evenly in a greased or parchment-lined cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with additional sugar if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat flour. If you prefer a nutty flavor, add chopped walnuts instead of raisins. You can also substitute honey or agave syrup for molasses, but adjust the sugar accordingly. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal rising and a soft texture in these hermits.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these soft spicy hermits as a delightful snack or dessert alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a festive touch, consider serving them with a side of whipped banana yogurt for a delicious contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the hermits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soft Spicy Hermits contains roughly 220 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 656mg per serving (29% 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 sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute coconut sugar or maple sugar for regular granulated sugar. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the flavor slightly. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference, as some sweeteners are sweeter than white sugar.
What can I use instead of raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, you can replace them with chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries. For a chocolatey twist, consider using chocolate chips or chunks. Both options will add a different yet delightful flavor to the hermits.
How do I know when the hermits are done baking?
The hermits are done when they are lightly browned on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary. Overbaking may result in a drier texture, so aim for that golden brown color for the best results.
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).