Adelaide’s Hermits Cookie Recipe

Introduction

Adelaide’s Hermits are a timeless classic in the realm of old-fashioned cookies, hailing from the rich culinary traditions of the United States and Britain. These dense, chewy, and aromatic treats evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort, making them a favorite during festive seasons and family gatherings. Their roots trace back to the 19th century, where they were cherished for their hearty spices, dried fruits, and nuts that provide both flavor and texture. Crafted with simple ingredients yet bursting with warmth, Adelaide’s Hermits are a delightful voyage into historic baking—perfect for those who appreciate heritage recipes and the art of slow, loving baking.

Time

The total time required to prepare, bake, and cool Adelaide’s Hermits is approximately 50 to 60 minutes. This includes:

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes

Patience during the cooling phase ensures the cookies set properly and develop their ideal chewy texture, so don’t skip this step!

Needed Equipment

Achieving perfect Adelaide’s Hermits requires a selection of standard kitchen tools. Gather the following:

• Mixing Bowls: At least two, for creaming and mixing dry ingredients.
• Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: For thoroughly creaming butter and sugar.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients.
• Rubber Spatula: To fold in dried fruits and nuts gently.
• Whisk: For mixing dry ingredients together.
• Baking Sheet (Cookie Sheet): To bake the cookies on.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: To prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
• Cooling Rack: For cooling the cookies evenly after baking.
• Cookie Scoop or Spoon: To portion the dough uniformly, ensuring even baking.
• Oven Thermometer (optional): To verify oven temperature accuracy.

Tags

Heritage, Baking, Cookies, Old-Fashioned, Spiced, Nutty, Dried Fruits, Holiday Baking, Nostalgic, Comfort Food

Serving Size

One serving is typically considered as one cookie. The recipe yields approximately 24 cookies, making it suitable for small family gatherings or to enjoy over several days with proper storage.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is classified as easy to medium. It involves common baking techniques such as creaming, folding, and baking. Even novice bakers can successfully produce authentic Adelaide’s Hermits with careful attention to the steps outlined below.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for omnivorous diets. To make it vegetarian, no changes are necessary. For vegan adaptations, substitute eggs with flaxseed or chia seed egg replacements, use dairy-free margarine or oils, and ensure dried fruits are free of sulphites or added preservatives.

Course

Dessert, Snack, Tea-time Treat

Cuisine

American, British, Heritage Baking

Ingredients

Ingredients in Table Format

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients and Equipment

Begin by assembling all your ingredients and equipment. Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), a temperature that allows the cookies to bake evenly and develop their characteristic chewy texture without burning. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy removal and cleanup.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat the mixture on medium speed until it turns light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process, called creaming, incorporates air into the mixture, contributing to the cookie’s structure. It should take approximately 3-5 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure even mixing.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Slowly add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to emulsify the mixture and prevents curdling. Follow with the vanilla extract and beat until fully integrated. The mixture should be smooth and cohesive, with a slight sheen.

Step 4: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), and baking soda. Sifting these together ensures even distribution of spices and prevents lumps, resulting in a uniform flavor profile and proper rising of the cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, starting with a third of the mixture at a time. Use low speed on your mixer or fold gently with a spatula to prevent overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined; avoid overworking the dough to maintain a tender crumb.

Step 6: Fold in Dried Fruits and Nuts

Stir in the raisins and chopped nuts with a rubber spatula. Distribute evenly throughout the dough. Dried fruits add sweetness and chewiness, while nuts provide crunch and richness—both essential for authentic Adelaide’s Hermits.

Step 7: Portion and Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or two teaspoons, portion out rounded spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them at least 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. For uniformity, shape each portion into a rounded ball; you can flatten slightly if desired.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. Keep a close eye after 10 minutes to prevent overbaking, as the cookies should remain chewy.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire cooling rack and let cool completely before handling. This step ensures they firm up to the perfect chewy consistency.

Preparation Tips

• Butter Consistency: Use softened butter to facilitate creaming. If your butter is too hard, cut it into small pieces and leave at room temperature for 30 minutes.
• Measuring Flour: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off with a knife to avoid packing, which can lead to dense cookies.
• Spice Variations: Adjust spices to your taste—adding ginger or allspice can enhance the flavor complexity.
• Dried Fruit Choice: Feel free to experiment with alternative dried fruits like chopped dates, cherries, or apricots.
• Nut Options: Toast nuts beforehand for added flavor and crunch.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Storage: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag or container, layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Softening Cookies: To revive slightly hardened cookies, warm them briefly in a low oven or microwave.
• Flavor Enhancements: Incorporate a splash of dark rum or brandy into the dough for an adult twist.
• Texture Variations: For a more cake-like version, add a teaspoon of baking powder and reduce the flour slightly.

Add-ons

• Chocolate chips for a decadent twist
• Additional spices such as ginger or allspice for more warmth
• Orange zest or lemon zest for citrus brightness
• Dried cranberries or cherries for colorful variation

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with:

• Hot beverages like tea, coffee, or mulled cider
• Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful dessert
• Fresh fruit compotes or jams for extra sweetness

Improvements

• Experiment with gluten-free flours, such as almond or oat flour, to make a gluten-free version.
• Add a touch of molasses or honey for richer flavor and moistness.
• Incorporate shredded coconut for added texture and flavor complexity.

Save and Store

Proper storage extends the freshness and flavor of Adelaide’s Hermits. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. For longer preservation, freeze the cookies wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm slightly for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes. Substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, replace eggs with flaxseed or chia seed eggs (1 tablespoon ground seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and ensure dried fruits are free of animal-derived additives.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Portion the dough into individual balls, place on a baking sheet to freeze until firm, then transfer to a sealed bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Are Adelaide’s Hermits suitable for children?

Yes, but be mindful of nut allergies and high sugar content. These cookies should be enjoyed in moderation by children as part of a balanced diet.

How can I make these cookies less sweet?

Reduce the sugar by a few tablespoons or substitute part of it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a nuanced flavor.

Conclusion

Adelaide’s Hermits are a wonderful embodiment of traditional baking, blending warm spices, dried fruits, and nuts into a chewy, satisfying cookie that has stood the test of time. Their history-rich profile makes them more than just a treat—they are a nostalgic journey through culinary heritage. Perfect for holiday celebrations, cozy afternoons, or gifting, these cookies are a testament to the simple pleasures of home baking. At Love With Recipes, we encourage you to savor every bite, share with loved ones, and perhaps, create new traditions inspired by this classic recipe.

References

Historical sources on American baking traditions and classic cookie recipes from the 19th century provide the basis for this detailed guide. For further reading, see:

• “The Joy of Old-Fashioned Cookies” by Martha Stewart Living
• “Baking through History: Recipes and Stories from the 1800s” by Historical Food Society