North American Raisin Cookies

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the Croatian Kolačići od grožđica, we have incorporated the flavors and ingredients commonly found in North American cuisine. The original recipe typically uses ingredients like honey and rum, which have been replaced with butter and vanilla extract in this North American version. Additionally, the use of cinnamon is a characteristic feature of North American baking, adding a warm and comforting flavor to the cookies. We alse have the original recipe for Kolačići od grožđica, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups (300g) raisins 2 cups (300g) raisins

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. 6.
   Fold in the raisins until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. 7.
   Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. 8.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. 9.
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Raisins — Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the cookie dough. This will help them plump up and become juicier, enhancing their flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a handful of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of ground cinnamon to 1 1/2 teaspoons.
• To make the cookies extra soft, slightly underbake them by reducing the baking time by 1-2 minutes.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewiness.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Serving advice

Serve these North American Raisin Cookies warm or at room temperature. They pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a platter or a cookie jar, allowing their golden brown edges and plump raisins to be visible. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.