Name: Poor Mans Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Water (warm, for soaking raisins); 1 cup Raisins; 8 tablespoons Vegetable Shortening; 3 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 cup Sugar (granulated or brown sugar); 1.5 teaspoons Baking Soda; 0.75 teaspoons Baking Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon Nutmeg; 0.5 teaspoon Cloves; 2 Eggs (slightly beaten); 1 cup Walnuts (coarsely chopped); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 3 tablespoons Warm Water (for icing)

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If you’re searching for a delightful, easy-to-make cookie that warms the heart without breaking the bank, look no further than Poor Mans Cookies. These delightful treats are a nostalgic nod to simpler times, combining wholesome ingredients into a comforting snack that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Moist, chewy, and bursting with flavor, these cookies are a sweet reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are those that require little effort and ingredients. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with Poor Mans Cookies and how to make your own batch today!

Reasons to Love Poor Mans Cookies

Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients that are often already in your pantry, these cookies are easy on the wallet.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with raisins and walnuts, Poor Mans Cookies offer a satisfying chew and a boost of nutrition.
Easy to Make: The straightforward method means you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Flavor: The warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen, making them perfect for any season.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, from chocolate chips to dried fruit, to make these cookies uniquely yours.

Ingredient Rundown

Water (2 cups or 562.5ml): This is used to soak the raisins, ensuring they’re plump and juicy.
Raisins (1 cup or 217.5g): These sweet gems add a natural sweetness and chewy texture to the cookies.
Vegetable Shortening (8 tablespoons): This creates a tender cookie with a delightful crumb.
All-Purpose Flour (3 cups or 375g): The base for our cookies, providing structure and stability.
Sugar (1 cup or 300g): Adds sweetness and balances the spices; brown sugar can also be used for a deeper flavor.
Baking Soda (1.5 teaspoons): Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
Baking Powder (0.75 teaspoons): Works alongside baking soda for leavening.
Salt (0.5 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, making each bite more delicious.
Cinnamon (0.5 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the cookies.
Nutmeg (0.5 teaspoon): A fragrant spice that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Cloves (0.5 teaspoon): Introduces a hint of bold flavor that complements the other spices.
Eggs (2, slightly beaten): Bind all the ingredients together while adding moisture.
Coarsely Chopped Walnuts (1 cup or 58.5g): Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup or 120g): Used for a light icing that adds a sweet finish to your cookies.
Warm Water (3 tablespoons): Helps dissolve the powdered sugar to create a smooth icing.

Cook’s Kit

Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results.
Baking Sheet: A flat surface to bake your cookies evenly.
Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Whisk: Perfect for beating the eggs and mixing dry ingredients thoroughly.
Spatula: Ideal for folding in the raisins and walnuts without crushing them.

Make Poor Mans Cookies: A Simple Method

Step 1: Soak the Raisins

In a medium bowl, pour 2 cups of warm water over the raisins. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes until plump. This step is crucial as it ensures your cookies have a delightful chewy texture.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the raisins are soaking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This will ensure that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 4: Cream the Shortening

In another bowl, cream the vegetable shortening until smooth. This will add the necessary fat for a tender cookie.

Step 5: Mix in the Eggs

Add the slightly beaten eggs to the creamed shortening and mix until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Strain the soaked raisins and fold them into the wet mixture. Then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Add the Walnuts

Fold in the coarsely chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 9: Prepare the Icing

While the cookies are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and 3 tablespoons of warm water until smooth. This will create a simple glaze for drizzling on top of the cookies.

Step 10: Drizzle and Cool

Once the cookies are done, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. After they have cooled completely, drizzle the icing over the cookies for a sweet finish.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

Fall Spice Delight: Add pumpkin spice mix instead of the traditional spices for a seasonal twist.
Chocolate Chip Addition: Toss in a cup of chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the raisins.
Exchange the Walnuts: Use pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Dried Fruit Medley: Swap out raisins for a mix of dried cranberries, apricots, or dates for a fruity explosion.

Don’t Do This

Don’t skip soaking the raisins. This step is key for achieving the right texture.
Avoid overmixing the dough; this can lead to tough cookies.
Don’t rush the cooling process. Icing should only be applied to cookies that are completely cool to prevent it from melting away.
Don’t skip the spices; they are essential for the classic Poor Mans Cookies flavor.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Poor Mans Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their life, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of sugar?

Absolutely! You can swap granulated sugar for brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based shortening.

Can I skip the icing?

Of course! The icing is optional. The cookies are delicious on their own, or you can dust them with powdered sugar for a simple touch.

What can I do if my dough is too dry?

If your dough seems dry, add a bit more water or a tablespoon of vegetable oil until the consistency is right.

Final Thoughts

Poor Mans Cookies are a delightful treat that showcases the beauty of simplicity in baking. With a handful of basic ingredients, you can create a batch of cookies that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea, sharing them with friends, or packing them for a lunchbox treat, Poor Mans Cookies are sure to please. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the delicious world of homemade cookies!