These are soft oatmeal cookies. They are studded with raisins, walnuts and spices. You can leave out the walnuts if you like, they are just as good without them. They were one of my dad's favorites. We lived about an hour and half from each other and he was always ready for a coffee and a cookie or two when he arrived. I think about him every time I make them. I have been making these cookies since I was first married, 35 years ago. I can't believe it's been that long!
Ingredients
1 cup raisins
1 cup water
3/4 cup shortening
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon cloves
2 cups oats
1/2 cup chopped nuts
Method
Simmer raisins and water over medium heat until raisins are plump, about 15 minutes. Drain raisins, reserving the liquid. Add enough water to reserved liquid to measure 1/2 cup.
Heat oven to 400 degrees F. Mix thoroughly shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Stir in reserved liquid. Blend in remaining ingredients. Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls about 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheet. Bake 10 to 14 minutes or until light brown.
