Raisin Griddle Cookies: A Nostalgic Embrace of Simplicity

There’s a specific aroma that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s bustling kitchen on a crisp autumn morning. It’s a comforting, sweet, and slightly spiced scent, a prelude to the magical alchemy that unfolded on her cast-iron griddle. These Raisin Griddle Cookies, a humble yet utterly delightful creation, were a staple of those cherished memories. They’re not quite a cookie, not quite a pancake, but something wonderfully in between – a warm hug in edible form, perfect for dipping into a steaming mug of tea or coffee, or simply enjoyed on their own, radiating a nostalgic warmth that no fancy patisserie can replicate.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 4 dozen
• Dietary Type: Contains Wheat, Eggs, Dairy (if milk is whole)

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients and prepare for a journey back in time. The beauty of these cookies lies in their straightforwardness, relying on pantry staples to create something truly special.

• 3 1/2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 cup vegetable shortening, softened
• 1/2 cup milk (whole milk will add richness)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 1/4 cups raisins
• Vegetable oil, for griddle

Equipment Needed

A few essential tools will ensure your Raisin Griddle Cookies turn out perfectly.

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry blender or two forks
• Griddle or large non-stick frying pan
• Rolling pin
• 2-inch round cookie cutter
• Spatula
• Wire cooling rack (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps with care, and you’ll soon be enjoying the delightful taste of these griddle-cooked wonders.

1. Begin by preparing your dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg. Sifting ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for a consistent texture.

2. Next, it’s time to incorporate the shortening. Cut in the vegetable shortening using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, much like you would do when making pastry. This step is key to creating a tender cookie.

3. In a separate small bowl or liquid measuring cup, combine the milk and the beaten egg.

4. Add the milk and egg mixture to the dry ingredients. Along with this, stir in the raisins.

5. Stir the ingredients gently until they are just moistened and the mixture holds together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky.

6. On a lightly floured board, roll out the dough to approximately 1/4-inch thick. A consistent thickness ensures that the cookies cook evenly.

7. Using a 2-inch round cookie cutter, cut out the cookies. You can re-roll the scraps gently once, but avoid overworking the dough.

8. Heat your griddle until it is moderately hot. You can test this by flicking a drop of water onto the surface; it should sizzle and evaporate quickly.

9. Lightly oil the griddle with a bit of vegetable oil. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.

10. Carefully place the cookies onto the hot, oiled griddle. Don’t overcrowd the griddle; cook in batches if necessary, leaving enough space between each cookie.

11. As the bottoms brown, you’ll notice the top of the cookies will start to get puffy. This is a sign they are ready to be turned. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes per side, depending on the heat of your griddle.

12. Using a spatula, turn the cookies over and brown the other side. Continue cooking until both sides are golden brown and the cookies are cooked through.

13. Once cooked, serve them hot or cold. They are delightful at any temperature.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Raisin Griddle Cookie experience, consider these professional insights:

• Dough Consistency: If your dough seems too dry to hold together, add milk a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too sticky to roll out, add flour a tablespoon at a time. The ideal consistency is slightly tacky but manageable.
• Griddle Temperature Control: Maintaining a consistent griddle temperature is paramount. If the griddle is too hot, the cookies will burn on the outside before they are cooked through. If it’s too cool, they will be pale and potentially greasy. Adjust the heat as needed.
• Raisin Hydration: For plumper, juicier raisins, you can soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before draining them thoroughly and adding them to the dough. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Spice Level: The nutmeg is subtle here, but feel free to adjust it to your preference. A pinch of cinnamon or allspice can also add a lovely complexity.
• Even Rolling: For uniformly cooked cookies, ensure your dough is rolled to an even thickness. Use a rolling pin with guides or measure the thickness periodically.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Raisin Griddle Cookies are incredibly versatile. They shine brightest served warm, perhaps with a dollop of butter melting into their nooks and crannies. They are also fantastic for dipping into a cup of your favorite beverage – tea, coffee, or even hot cocoa for a delightful treat. For a more substantial dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

When it comes to storage, these cookies are best enjoyed fresh. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They tend to soften slightly over time. If you wish to store them for longer, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week, though their texture may change. Reheat gently in a low oven or toaster oven to revive their crispness. For long-term storage, freeze the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information

Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	1221.1 kcal
Calories from Fat		495 g
Total Fat	55.1 g	84%
Saturated Fat	16.2 g	81%
Cholesterol	57.1 mg	19%
Sodium	1093 mg	45%
Total Carbohydrate	171.1 g	57%
Dietary Fiber	4.8 g	19%
Sugars	77.3 g	309%
Protein	15.3 g	30%

Variations & Substitutions

While these cookies are classic for a reason, a little creativity can add exciting new dimensions:

• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a more robust spice profile, consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of ground cloves along with the nutmeg.
• Citrus Zest: A tablespoon or two of lemon or orange zest can add a bright, refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the raisins.
• Nutty Addition: For added texture and flavor, fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the raisins.
• Substitute Shortening: If you prefer to avoid shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of all-vegetable margarine or coconut oil (solidified). The texture might vary slightly.
• Milk Alternatives: While whole milk contributes richness, 2% milk or even plant-based milks like almond or soy milk can be used.

FAQs

Q: Why are they called “griddle cookies”?
A: They are cooked on a griddle or flat-top instead of in a conventional oven, giving them a unique texture and flavor profile.

Q: Can I make these without raisins?
A: Absolutely! If raisins aren’t your preference, you can omit them or substitute them with other dried fruits like chopped dates, cranberries, or currants.

Q: What is the best way to ensure my cookies cook evenly?
A: Rolling the dough to a consistent thickness and maintaining a steady, moderate griddle temperature are the keys to even cooking.

Q: How do I prevent my cookies from sticking to the griddle?
A: Ensure your griddle is well-seasoned and lightly oiled. Don’t overcrowd the griddle, and cook in batches if necessary.

Q: Can I freeze the dough before cooking?
A: Yes, you can cut out the cookies and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Cook them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Final Thoughts

There’s a profound comfort in baking recipes that have stood the test of time, and these Raisin Griddle Cookies are a testament to that enduring appeal. They are a gentle reminder that the simplest ingredients, combined with a little care and attention, can yield the most delightful results. I encourage you to bring these into your kitchen, to create your own memories, and to savor each warm, spiced bite. Share them with loved ones, enjoy them with a steaming beverage, and let their humble charm fill your home with the same warmth and nostalgia that fills my heart. They are a perfect sweet ending to any meal, or a delightful morning treat that harks back to simpler, sweeter times.