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What Are Old-Fashioned Hermit Cookies?
Old-Fashioned Hermit Cookies are soft, slightly crisp on the edges, and packed with warm spices. Traditionally made with raisins, they’ve been a beloved treat for generations. The name “Hermit” comes from their ability to stay fresh for days—though in my house, they disappear fast!These cookies are believed to have originated in New England in the 1800s, popular among sailors and travelers because of their long shelf life. The spices in the dough act as natural preservatives, allowing them to stay moist and flavorful over time. Today, they remain a comforting treat that’s perfect for any season.
Old Fashioned Hermit Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3/4 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 3/4 cup baking raisins
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 325°F. Cover a 15 x 20-inch sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the shortening and sugar.
- Whisk in the egg and molasses; mix until combined.
- Add the flour mixture and mix until completely combined.
- Stir in the raisins.
- Using 1/2 cup of dough, roll into a 7-inch log. Make 6 logs and place them on the cookie sheet 2 – 3 inches apart. (They will spread a lot when they bake.)
- Bake for 20 – 22 minutes. The centers will be very soft but will firm up as they cool. Do not overcook or they will be crunchy, not chewy.
- Cool for 5 minutes on the sheet pan then transfer to a wire rack. When completely cooled, cut each piece into 3 bars.
- Serve and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
✔ Warm, Cozy Flavors – A perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
✔ Soft & Chewy – A tender center with a slight crunch on the outside.
✔ Not Overly Sweet – Pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and no fancy equipment needed!
✔ Perfect for Gifting – Their long shelf life makes them a great homemade gift.
A Nostalgic Cookie with a Timeless Flavor
I recently rediscovered this classic Old-Fashioned Hermit Cookie recipe while flipping through an old cookbook, and I was instantly reminded why I love them so much. The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a cozy aroma that fills the kitchen, while the raisins add the perfect touch of chewiness. Growing up, these cookies were a staple in my family, especially during the colder months when a warm, spiced treat felt like a hug in dessert form. Biting into an Old-Fashioned Hermit Cookie brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where a batch was always cooling on the counter. The comforting flavors and simple preparation make these cookies truly special.
Tips & Variations
- Swap raisins for chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a twist.
- Add a touch of orange zest for extra depth of flavor.
- Use dark brown sugar for a richer molasses flavor.
- For a firmer cookie, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Make them gluten-free by substituting 1-to-1 gluten-free flour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies without raisins?
Yes! You can substitute the raisins with chocolate chips, chopped dates, or even leave them out entirely.
Do Old-Fashioned Hermit Cookies need to be refrigerated?
No, they stay fresh at room temperature for up to a week in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Scoop portions of cookie dough onto a baking sheet and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag and bake as needed.
Why are they called Hermit Cookies?
They got their name because they “hide away” well—meaning they store for long periods without spoiling!
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Thank you for the recipe. Loved these growing up then they disappeared from stores. I’m now vegan. What would be the best egg replacement?
You could use a product called “eggs from plants” at Walmart or make a chia seed egg or flax egg. Those have worked the best in baking. Enjoy!
Our Market Basket Supermarkets in Maine sell Hermits in their bakeries. They are sooooo good. Besides the nuts and raisins they also include a variety of seeds (sesame, ground flax, poppy and sunflower). I plan to use your recipe and add the seeds for extra crunch and nutrition. I also am going to try 1/2 whole wheat flour.
Claire
That is wonderful to hear. Please let me know how they turn out 🙂