Sure! Here’s how you could write out the recipes for Hermits and Shortbread cookies, based on your description of the family tradition. I’ll include both recipes in a way that reflects their deep-rooted connection to family and history.
Family Christmas Cookie Recipes: Hermits & Shortbread
As long as I can remember—and I’m 75—these two cookies have been Christmas staples in our home: Hermits and Shortbread. The Hermits recipe comes from an old Five Roses Flour cookbook that my mom used, while the Shortbread recipe has been passed down through three generations. These cookies are more than just delicious—they’re a part of our holiday traditions and carry the warmth of family with every bite.
Hermits (From Five Roses Flour Cookbook)
These spiced cookies have been a favorite for generations, with a rich flavor profile that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee during the Christmas season.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup shortening (or butter for a richer flavor)
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 1 cup raisins (optional, but traditional)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the sugar and shortening: In a large mixing bowl, cream the brown sugar and shortening together until smooth and fluffy.
- Add egg and molasses: Beat in the egg and molasses, mixing until fully combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in raisins and nuts: Stir in the raisins and walnuts (or pecans) if you’re using them.
- Shape and bake: Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You can also roll the dough into small balls if you prefer a round shape. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes: The hermits are ready when they’re golden on the edges but soft in the center. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Shortbread (Family Recipe)
This rich and buttery shortbread has been passed down through three generations, and it’s a Christmas classic that’s always a hit at holiday gatherings. Simple ingredients, but an elegant treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or almond extract for flavor
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This may take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add flour and salt: Gradually sift in the flour and salt, mixing until combined. If you’re using vanilla or almond extract, add it at this stage.
- Shape the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it a few times until it comes together. Roll it out to about ½ inch thick. You can either cut it into traditional round shapes, or use cookie cutters to create festive designs, such as stars, hearts, or squares.
- Bake: Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden brown. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
- Cool and store: Let the shortbread cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container for up to a week (if they last that long!).
Enjoying the Cookies: A Holiday Tradition
These two cookies—Hermits and Shortbread—have been a part of our family’s holiday tradition for as long as I can remember. The Hermits offer a wonderful spiced flavor and chewy texture, while the Shortbread delivers a delicate, buttery crunch. Whether enjoyed with a warm beverage or shared with family and friends, they bring comfort and joy to every holiday season.
If you’d like, you can personalize the recipes even further by adding your own special twists or even notes about how these cookies are traditionally served in your family. These recipes have truly stood the test of time!