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Old-Fashioned Hermit Cookies
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Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Chewy and spiced New England hermit cookies - a delightful Maine tradition made easy at home.
Ingredients:
  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (213g) light brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
  • 1 1/2 cups (225g) chopped dates
  • 3/4 cup (85g) toasted chopped walnuts
Instructions:
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F and position racks in the upper and lower thirds. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves in a medium mixing bowl to blend the dry ingredients.
  • Combine butter and brown sugar: In a large bowl, mix the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer on medium speed for about 5 minutes. You can also use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment and mix for about 3 minutes. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, beating on medium speed until fully combined and fluffy again for about 1 minute. Slowly add the milk and mix on low speed until fully incorporated.
  • Combine dry ingredients: Combine the dry ingredients with a rubber spatula until fully incorporated. Mix in chopped dates and walnuts until evenly distributed in the dough.
  • Scoop: Use a medium cookie scoop or a spoon to portion about 2 tablespoons of dough. Place 12 cookies on each baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced about 3 inches apart.
  • Bake: Place a pan on each oven rack and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Rotate the pans halfway through to ensure even baking. The cookies should puff slightly, with set centers and golden brown edges. Let cool on a wire rack for at least 5 minutes before enjoying. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For best flavor, enjoy the day after baking. If you loved this recipe, we would appreciate your feedback below!