Hermit Cookies

The Hermit Cookies have a special place in my heart, nestled in between the cherished moments of my childhood and the comforting aroma wafting through my kitchen today. I recall the excitement of coming home from school to the smell of these cookies baking, the sweet and spicy notes filling the air, drawing me into the kitchen where my mom would be bustling about. Each bite of these cookies was a delightful burst of flavor, with chewy raisins and the warm hints of ginger and cinnamon. It’s a recipe that has traveled through generations, reminding me of family gatherings and festive autumn days. Now, I love to share this recipe with my friends, the same way my mom shared it with me. The joy of baking these cookies is not just in the end result, but in the memories created along the way.

Key Ingredients for Hermit Cookies

Each ingredient in the Hermit Cookies plays a crucial role in creating the delightful and comforting flavors. The blend of sweet and spicy components makes for a memorable treat. The key players are raisins, which provide a natural sweetness and chewy texture, and ginger, which brings warmth and zest to the cookies. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that everyone will love.

• Raisins: 1 cup (145g) of raisins adds a natural sweetness and chewy texture. They also provide a rich source of energy and fiber, making each cookie not just a treat but also a nourishing choice.
• Crystallized Ginger: 2 tablespoons of finely chopped crystallized ginger adds a spicy kick and warmth, balancing the sweetness of the raisins. This ingredient is a standout, offering a delightful surprise in every bite.
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (113.5g) of unsalted butter ensures a rich and moist texture in the cookies. It brings a lovely buttery flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness, creating that familiar comforting taste we all adore in baked goods.
• Ground Allspice: ¼ teaspoon of ground allspice deepens the flavor profile of the cookies, introducing a hint of complexity that’s hard to resist.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (250g) of all-purpose flour gives structure to the cookies, creating a sturdy base that holds all the wonderful ingredients together.
• Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon of baking soda acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise and achieve a perfect texture.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon of salt enhances the overall flavors, balancing the sweetness of the cookies and making them even more enjoyable.
• Dark Brown Sugar: ¾ cup (165g) of dark brown sugar introduces a deep, caramel-like sweetness that adds moisture and richness to the cookies.
• Molasses: ½ cup (168.5g) of molasses contributes a distinct flavor and color, making these cookies even more delectable and traditional.
• Eggs: 2 eggs bind the ingredients together, providing structure and richness to the cookies.
• Orange Juice: 1½ tablespoons of orange juice adds a hint of citrus brightness, elevating the flavors of the cookies.
• Powdered Sugar: ¾ cup (90g) of powdered sugar is used for glazing, adding a sweet finish that brings the whole cookie together.

Recipe Directions for Hermit Cookies

Making Hermit Cookies is a fun and rewarding experience. It’s a step-by-step journey that culminates in a delightful treat you can share with friends and family. Let’s dive into the process!

1. Start by processing the raisins and crystallized ginger in a food processor. Pulse them until the mixture sticks together, about 10 seconds. This will create a sticky base that brings sweetness and spice to your cookies.
2. Next, transfer the raisin and ginger mixture to a large bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Keep an eye on it and swirl the pan occasionally. You want it to turn nutty brown in color, which should take about 10 minutes. This step adds a rich flavor to your cookies.
3. Once the butter is ready, stir in the ground cinnamon and ground allspice. Cook for an additional 15 seconds, then remove from heat. Pour this butter mixture into the bowl with the raisin mixture and stir until well combined. Allow this to cool completely before proceeding.
4. While waiting for the mixture to cool, use a small bowl to whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure even distribution of the leavening agents throughout the dough.
5. Once the raisin mixture has cooled, whisk in the dark brown sugar, molasses, and eggs until everything is thoroughly combined. This step is crucial, as it ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Now, using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the flour mixture. The dough will be very sticky at this stage, but that’s exactly what you want for a chewy cookie.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1½ hours, or if you have time, up to 24 hours. This chilling process allows the flavors to deepen and the dough to firm up.
8. When you’re ready to bake, adjust the oven racks to the upper-middle and lower-middle positions and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
9. Divide the chilled dough into quarters. Take one piece at a time and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 10-inch log, then place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to square off the sides, as this will create neat-shaped cookies. Repeat this with the remaining dough.
10. Bake your cookies until only a shallow indentation remains on the edges when touched, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Remember to rotate the sheets halfway through baking for even cooking.
11. Once done, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the parchment paper to wire racks to cool completely.
12. For the finishing touch, whisk together the orange juice and powdered sugar in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled logs, letting it set for about 15 minutes before cutting the logs into 2-inch bars. Your delicious Hermit Cookies are now ready to be enjoyed!

Expert Tips about Hermit Cookies

Baking the perfect Hermit Cookies comes down to a few key tips that can enhance your experience and the final product. Here are some expert tips to help you along the way:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your raisins and crystallized ginger are fresh for the best flavor. Stale ingredients can lead to a lackluster cookie.
• Don’t Skip the Chilling: Chilling the dough not only helps with handling but also enhances the flavors. If you’re short on time, aim for at least an hour in the fridge.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Since oven temperatures can vary, keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. If the edges are set and slightly golden, it’s time to take them out.
• Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture. You can also separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. Even a pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness of the cookies.
• Glaze Variations: Feel free to get creative with your glaze. Add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty kick or mix in some vanilla for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Beverages: Serve Hermit Cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These cookies make a fantastic addition to any gathering, from casual get-togethers to festive holidays.
• Lunchbox Treats: Pack them in lunchboxes for a delightful surprise. Their sturdy shape makes them ideal for on-the-go snacks.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Enjoy these cookies during the fall season when warm spices are especially appealing. They bring a homey vibe to any autumn celebration.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for up to 5 days.
• Variation Ideas: Consider pairing these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Hermit Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors that evoke warm memories and comfort. These cookies are not just easy to make but also customizable to fit your taste. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. You’ll be delighted by the sweet and spicy notes that capture the essence of home-baked goodness!

Hermit Cookies

The ultimate comfort food, Hermit Cookies combine chewy raisins, warm ginger, and cozy spices for a delightful treat. Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea, these cookies are easy to make and will satisfy your sweet cravings. Make them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 20 cookies

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Raisins 145g
• 2 tablespoons Crystallized Ginger finely chopped
• ½ cup Unsalted Butter 113.5g
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon Ground Allspice 0.25 teaspoons
• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour 250g
• ½ teaspoon Baking Soda 0.5 teaspoons
• ½ teaspoon Salt 0.5 teaspoons
• ¾ cup Dark Brown Sugar 165g
• ½ cup Molasses 168.5g
• 2 eggs Eggs
• 1½ tablespoons Orange Juice 1.5 tablespoons
• ¾ cup Powdered Sugar 90g

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Process the raisins and crystallized ginger in a food processor until the mixture sticks together, about 10 seconds. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.
2. Heat the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, swirling the pan occasionally, until nutty brown in color, about 10 minutes. Stir in the ground cinnamon and ground allspice, cook for an additional 15 seconds, then remove from the heat. Stir the butter mixture into the raisin mixture until well combined; allow to cool completely.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda and salt.
4. Whisk the dark brown sugar, molasses and eggs into the raisin mixture until thoroughly combined. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the flour mixture (the dough will be very sticky). Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1½ hours, or up to 24 hours.
5. When ready to bake, adjust the oven racks to the upper-middle and lower-middle positions and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into quarters. Working with one piece of dough at a time, transfer to a lightly floured surface and roll into a 10-inch log. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and square off the sides. Repeat with the remaining pieces of dough, placing two logs on each baking sheet.
7. Bake until only a shallow indentation remains on the edges when touched, 15 to 20 minutes, rotating sheets halfway through baking. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer the parchment to wire racks to cool completely.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice and powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle the glaze onto the cooled log and let sit until the glaze hardens, about 15 minutes. Cut logs into 2-inch bars. Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Notes

• Nutritional Values: Based on one cookie.

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.