Hermits Recipe Collection: From Classic to Creative Variations
Hermits, those delightfully chewy and subtly spiced cookies, are a beloved treat with a rich history. Their name evokes a sense of rustic simplicity and warmth, perfectly reflecting their comforting flavor. While the origins of hermits are somewhat shrouded in mystery, they are believed to have originated in New England, possibly dating back to the 18th century. Early versions were likely made with whatever ingredients were readily available, leading to a variety of regional variations. Over time, the recipe evolved, incorporating spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, as well as ingredients like raisins, nuts, and molasses. Today, hermits remain a popular cookie choice, enjoyed for their soft texture and nuanced flavor profile. This article explores a range of hermit recipes, from the classic rendition to exciting modern twists, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips for baking the perfect batch every time.
The Classic Hermits Recipe
This recipe is a timeless classic, delivering the authentic flavor and texture that makes hermits so irresistible. It’s a reliable base that you can customize with your favorite additions.
**Yields:** Approximately 24-36 cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1/4 cup molasses
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup raisins
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
**Equipment:**
* Large mixing bowl
* Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Baking sheets
* Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
* Cookie scoop (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie. Use an electric mixer for best results, creaming for about 3-5 minutes.
3. **Add Eggs and Molasses:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses and vanilla extract. Ensure each ingredient is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Whisking ensures the baking soda and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. **Stir in Raisins and Nuts (Optional):** Gently stir in the raisins and chopped nuts (if using). Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoons (or use a cookie scoop for consistent size) onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the cookies.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips for Perfect Hermits:**
* **Use Room Temperature Butter:** Softened butter creams much more easily, resulting in a lighter and more tender cookie.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
* **Measure Flour Accurately:** Too much flour can make the cookies dry and crumbly. Use a kitchen scale for the most accurate measurement, or spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
* **Adjust Spices to Your Preference:** Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, add a little more. If you don’t like cloves, you can omit them.
* **Store Hermits Properly:** Store hermits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Chocolate Chip Hermits
Adding chocolate chips to the classic hermit recipe creates a delightful twist that appeals to chocolate lovers of all ages. The rich chocolate complements the warm spices, creating a truly irresistible treat.
**Yields:** Approximately 24-36 cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* Follow the ingredients for the Classic Hermits Recipe, plus:
* 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate, depending on your preference)
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-6 of the Classic Hermits Recipe.
2. **Stir in Chocolate Chips:** Gently stir in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
3. Follow steps 7-9 of the Classic Hermits Recipe.
**Tips for Chocolate Chip Hermits:**
* **Use High-Quality Chocolate Chips:** The quality of the chocolate chips will greatly affect the flavor of the cookies. Use a good brand of chocolate chips for the best results.
* **Experiment with Different Types of Chocolate Chips:** Try using different types of chocolate chips, such as semi-sweet, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate, to create different flavor combinations.
* **Add a Pinch of Sea Salt:** A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies after baking can enhance the chocolate flavor.
Orange Zest and Cranberry Hermits
This recipe adds a bright and citrusy twist to the classic hermit, incorporating orange zest and dried cranberries for a burst of flavor. The cranberries provide a chewy texture and tartness that complements the warm spices, while the orange zest adds a refreshing aroma.
**Yields:** Approximately 24-36 cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* Follow the ingredients for the Classic Hermits Recipe, plus:
* Zest of 1 orange
* 1 cup dried cranberries
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-6 of the Classic Hermits Recipe.
2. **Stir in Orange Zest and Cranberries:** Gently stir in the orange zest and dried cranberries until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
3. Follow steps 7-9 of the Classic Hermits Recipe.
**Tips for Orange Zest and Cranberry Hermits:**
* **Use Fresh Orange Zest:** Fresh orange zest provides the best flavor. Avoid using dried orange zest, as it can be bitter.
* **Soak the Cranberries:** Soaking the dried cranberries in warm water or orange juice for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the dough will plump them up and make them more tender.
* **Add a Glaze:** A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and orange juice can add a touch of sweetness and shine to the cookies.
Maple Walnut Hermits
This variation replaces the traditional molasses with maple syrup, creating a sweeter and more nuanced flavor profile. The addition of walnuts enhances the nutty notes and adds a satisfying crunch.
**Yields:** Approximately 24-36 cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1/4 cup maple syrup (pure maple syrup is recommended)
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup chopped walnuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Eggs and Maple Syrup:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. **Stir in Walnuts:** Gently stir in the chopped walnuts until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips for Maple Walnut Hermits:**
* **Use Pure Maple Syrup:** Pure maple syrup provides the best flavor and aroma. Avoid using imitation maple syrup, as it can be overly sweet and artificial-tasting.
* **Toast the Walnuts:** Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the dough enhances their flavor and adds a satisfying crunch. To toast walnuts, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
* **Add a Maple Glaze:** A maple glaze made with powdered sugar and maple syrup can add a touch of elegance to the cookies.
Gingerbread Hermits
These hermits take inspiration from gingerbread cookies, featuring a robust blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The molasses adds a deep, rich flavor, while the spices create a warm and inviting aroma.
**Yields:** Approximately 24-36 cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup molasses
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 2 teaspoons ground ginger
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Eggs and Molasses:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses and vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
8. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips for Gingerbread Hermits:**
* **Use Freshly Ground Spices:** Freshly ground spices provide the best flavor and aroma. If possible, grind your own spices using a spice grinder.
* **Add a Touch of Black Pepper:** A pinch of black pepper can enhance the warmth and depth of flavor in gingerbread cookies.
* **Decorate with Icing:** These cookies are perfect for decorating with royal icing. You can create intricate designs or simply drizzle with a simple glaze.
Lemon Poppy Seed Hermits
For a bright and refreshing twist, these hermits incorporate lemon zest and poppy seeds. The lemon adds a zesty flavor, while the poppy seeds provide a subtle crunch and visual appeal.
**Yields:** Approximately 24-36 cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* Follow the ingredients for the Classic Hermits Recipe, plus:
* Zest of 1 lemon
* 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-6 of the Classic Hermits Recipe.
2. **Stir in Lemon Zest and Poppy Seeds:** Gently stir in the lemon zest and poppy seeds until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
3. Follow steps 7-9 of the Classic Hermits Recipe.
**Tips for Lemon Poppy Seed Hermits:**
* **Use Fresh Lemon Zest:** Fresh lemon zest provides the best flavor. Avoid using dried lemon zest, as it can be bitter.
* **Bloom the Poppy Seeds:** Toasting the poppy seeds in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the dough enhances their flavor. Be careful not to burn them.
* **Add a Lemon Glaze:** A lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice can add a touch of sweetness and tartness to the cookies.
Peanut Butter Hermits
These hermits incorporate peanut butter for a nutty and slightly salty flavor. The peanut butter also adds a chewy texture that complements the spices.
**Yields:** Approximately 24-36 cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, depending on your preference)
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. **Cream Butter, Sugars, and Peanut Butter:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
8. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips for Peanut Butter Hermits:**
* **Use Creamy or Chunky Peanut Butter:** Use your favorite type of peanut butter. Creamy peanut butter will result in a smoother cookie, while chunky peanut butter will add a bit of texture.
* **Add Chocolate Chips:** Peanut butter and chocolate are a classic combination. Add chocolate chips to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
* **Drizzle with Melted Chocolate:** Drizzle the baked cookies with melted chocolate for a decadent treat.
Vegan Hermits
It’s possible to enjoy hermits even on a vegan diet! This recipe substitutes the butter and eggs with plant-based alternatives, resulting in a delicious and compassionate treat.
**Yields:** Approximately 24-36 cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup vegan butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/2 cup applesauce (unsweetened)
* 1/4 cup molasses
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup raisins
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. **Cream Vegan Butter and Sugars:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Applesauce and Molasses:** Stir in the applesauce, molasses, and vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. **Stir in Raisins and Nuts (Optional):** Gently stir in the raisins and chopped nuts (if using).
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips for Vegan Hermits:**
* **Choose a High-Quality Vegan Butter:** The quality of the vegan butter will affect the flavor and texture of the cookies. Choose a brand that you enjoy and that is known for its good melting properties.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Vegan cookies tend to dry out more easily than traditional cookies, so be careful not to overbake them.
* **Add a Vegan Glaze:** A vegan glaze made with powdered sugar and plant-based milk (such as almond milk or soy milk) can add a touch of sweetness and shine to the cookies.
Gluten-Free Hermits
For those with gluten sensitivities, this recipe uses a gluten-free flour blend to create hermits that are just as delicious as the original.
**Yields:** Approximately 24-36 cookies
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1/4 cup molasses
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (make sure it contains xanthan gum)
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup raisins
* 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Eggs and Molasses:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses and vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. **Stir in Raisins and Nuts (Optional):** Gently stir in the raisins and chopped nuts (if using).
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons onto Baking Sheets:** Drop the cookie dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips for Gluten-Free Hermits:**
* **Use a High-Quality Gluten-Free Flour Blend:** Choose a gluten-free flour blend that is specifically designed for baking and that contains xanthan gum. Xanthan gum helps to bind the ingredients together and prevent the cookies from being crumbly.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing gluten-free dough can make it tough. Mix until just combined.
* **Let the Dough Rest:** Letting the dough rest for 15-20 minutes before baking can help to improve the texture of the cookies.
Hermits offer a delightful canvas for culinary creativity. From the comforting simplicity of the classic recipe to the exciting variations explored in this article, there’s a hermit recipe to suit every taste and preference. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a baking adventure to discover your favorite version of these timeless cookies. Happy baking!