Hermits II Recipe - A Classic New England Dessert

Hermits II

Hermits II Recipe - A Classic New England Dessert
Region / culture: New England | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Hermits II
Hermits II

Hermits II are a classic and delicious treat that have been enjoyed for generations. These chewy, spiced cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. In this recipe, we will show you how to make these tasty treats from scratch.

History

Hermits are a traditional cookie that originated in New England in the 19th century. They were originally made with a variety of spices, dried fruits, and nuts, making them a hearty and flavorful treat. Over the years, different variations of the recipe have emerged, but the basic concept of a spiced, chewy cookie has remained the same.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Cream together the butter and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy.
  2. Add the molasses and eggs. Beat well.
  3. Sift together the dry ingredients and mix them with the raisins and nuts. Then, add this mixture to the molasses mixture and blend well.
  4. Spread the mixture evenly in a baking pan measuring 12"x8"x2".
  5. Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes. Allow it to cool, then cut it into squares.

Variations

  • Add dried cranberries or apricots for a fruity twist.
  • Substitute the nuts with chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy to ensure a tender cookie.

- Be sure to sift the dry ingredients to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

- Allow the hermits to cool completely before cutting them into squares to prevent them from crumbling.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Hermits II with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy is key to achieving a tender cookie.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the margarine with butter in this recipe for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Hermits II can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the hermits on a decorative plate and dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Hermits II with a glass of milk for a classic combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Hermits II in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, place in a 350°F (177°C) oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hermits II contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hermits II contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hermits II contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Hermits II contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Hermits II are a good source of iron and calcium.

Alergens

Hermits II contain nuts and eggs.

Summary

Hermits II are a delicious treat that are relatively low in calories and provide a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Summary

Hermits II are a classic and delicious treat that are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. With a chewy texture and warm spices, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. I had heard about these delicious Hermits II cookies from my dear friend Rebecca, who had learned the recipe from her own grandmother many years ago. She spoke of how the warm spices combined with the sweetness of the raisins created a flavor that was simply irresistible.

I begged Rebecca to teach me how to make them, and she graciously agreed. We spent an entire afternoon in her cozy kitchen, measuring out flour, sugar, and all the other necessary ingredients. As we mixed the dough together, the fragrant scent of cinnamon and cloves filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Rebecca showed me how to roll out the dough and cut it into squares before baking. She explained that the cookies get their name from the fact that they are traditionally cut into small squares, resembling the hermits who lived in seclusion in the woods. I found the history behind the recipe fascinating, and it made me appreciate the cookies even more.

As we waited for the cookies to bake, Rebecca shared stories of her own grandmother and how she used to make these treats for her family on special occasions. I could see the love and care that went into each batch, and I knew that I wanted to continue that tradition in my own family.

When the cookies finally emerged from the oven, golden brown and fragrant, I couldn't wait to try one. The first bite was pure bliss – the warm spices mingling with the chewy raisins, creating a flavor that was both comforting and satisfying. I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe, one that would be passed down through the generations.

Over the years, I have continued to make these Hermits II cookies for my own family and friends. Each time I bake a batch, I am transported back to that day in Rebecca's kitchen, learning the recipe for the first time. I can still hear her voice guiding me through each step, her laughter ringing in my ears as we shared stories and memories.

I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe over the years, adding a touch of orange zest for brightness and substituting walnuts for the traditional pecans. I like to think that my grandmother would have approved of these small changes, as I continue to put my own spin on this beloved recipe.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the warm scent of cinnamon and cloves, I am filled with gratitude for the women who have passed down this recipe to me. I think of my own grandchildren, who will one day learn to make these cookies from me, carrying on the tradition and creating their own memories in the kitchen.

For me, baking these Hermits II cookies is more than just a recipe – it is a connection to the past, a way to honor those who came before me and a reminder of the love and care that goes into every batch. And as I take a bite of a warm, freshly baked cookie, I know that this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.

Categories

| Cookie Recipes | Molasses Recipes | New England Recipes | New England Snacks | Nut Recipes | Raisin Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients