Vernie'S Hermies(Vern'S Hermits)
Vernie'S Hermies are delightful cinnamon-spiced cookies with raisins and walnuts, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a sweet snack any time of day.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground cloves, and nutmeg well.
- Add the milk, shortening, brown sugar, and eggs; mix until thoroughly combined.
- Stir in the raisins and chopped walnuts.
- Spread the mixture in strips on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and cut into cookie-sized pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider sifting the dry ingredients before mixing. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. For added flavor, try incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you prefer a different nut, pecans work well in place of walnuts. Don't overmix the dough to ensure the hermits stay soft.
Serving Suggestions
These hermits are delightful served warm with a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with Glenda'S Favorite Fruit Cake for a festive dessert platter. For a fun twist, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the hermits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, which will restore their softness and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vernie'S Hermies(Vern'S Hermits) contains roughly 177 calories, with 4g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% 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 make these hermits ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. You can also bake them, let them cool, and store them for later enjoyment.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of granulated sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses. This will provide a similar flavor and moisture content, ensuring your hermits remain delicious.
Can I add other ingredients to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your hermits by adding chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or dried fruits like cranberries or apricots. Just remember to adjust the amounts to keep the texture right.
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).