SOFT RAISIN COOKIES

2 cups raisins
1 cup boiling water
3/4 cup shortening
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
4 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1 cup chopped nuts

Add boiling water to raisins. Cook 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla and beat well; set aside.

Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. Add alternately with raisin liquid to creamed mixture. Stir in raisins and nuts.

Refrigerate dough for several hours or overnight.

WHEN READY TO BAKE:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Drop by teaspoons onto greased cookie sheet.

Bake at 350 degrees for about 12 minutes.

Makes about 9 dozen cookies
Source: Best of Cookies From Amish and Mennonite Kitchens (mini cookbook collection) by Phyllis Pellman Good and Rachel Thomas Pellman

Category:  Desserts, Cookies, Brownies, Bars
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