Boston Fruit Cookies are a delightful holiday treat with origins tracing back to an 1881 Detroit publication. Combining the sweetness of raisins, the crunch of walnuts, and the richness of brown sugar, these cookies offer a nostalgic taste of Christmases past. Perfect for cookie exchanges or as a festive gift, they bring warmth and tradition to any holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 cups brown sugar
- 3 eggs (large)
- 1 cup Shortening
- 1 box raisins (cooked and drained)
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda (heaping)
- 1 cup walnuts (chopped)
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
Preheat Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Raisins
- In a small saucepan, boil the raisins until plump. Drain and set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the brown sugar and shortening until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Add Raisins and Walnuts
- Fold in the prepared raisins and chopped walnuts.
Form Cookies
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Flavor Variations: Add chopped dates or dried cranberries for a different twist.
Nutrition
Calories: 169kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 42mgPotassium: 52mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 17mgIron: 1mg
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