Oatmeal Gems

An oatmeal cookie for those who like a softer version. Try using pecans in place of the walnuts.

• Calories: 146 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups white sugar
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• ¾ cup shortening
• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon salt (Optional)

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine raisins and water in small saucepan. Simmer over low heat 20 to 30 minutes, until raisins are plump. Drain liquid from raisins into measuring cup. If necessary, add enough additional water to raisin liquid to measure 1/2 cup. Set drained raisins and 1/2 cup raisin liquid aside to cool.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, beat shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Stir in reserved 1/2 cup raisin water.

Step 3

Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and cloves into a separate bowl. Stir flour mixture into shortening mixture with a spoon. Stir in oats, nuts and reserved raisins; mix well.

Step 4

Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls, about 2 inches apart, onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake in a preheated 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) oven 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly browned. Note: These cookies freeze well.