Oatmeal Raisin Cookies with Plumped Raisins

By Bonnie T

These are the BEST. The key is simmering the raisins until plump and using the raisin water in the recipe. Have used this recipe for over 40 years.

Ingredients

• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup water
• 3/4 cup shortening
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon clove
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Preparation

Step 1

1. Simmer raisins and water in saucepan over low heat until plump for 20 minutes.

2. Drain raisin liquid into measuring cup

3. Add water to make 1/2 cup.

4. Heat oven to 400 degrees.

5. Cream shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla.

6. Stir in raisin liquid.

7. Measure flour and combine with, baking powder, baking soda, salt and spices.

8. Stir into creamed mixture.

9. Add oats, nuts and raisins.

10. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2" apart onto ungreased baking sheet.

11. Bake for 10 minutes.