Every year on November 15th, National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day comes around. Would you believe it's been over two centuries since the first Hermit cookie emerged? These cookies boast a blend of exotic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, combined with raisins and currants. Originating in America, this recipe has captivated taste buds across all age groups, particularly appealing to those who prefer less sugary treats. National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day was established to honor this delectable recipe's legacy.

History

• Origins: The exact origins of hermit cookies are believed to date back to the 19th century in New England. The name "hermit" may refer to the cookies' ability to be stored for long periods without spoiling, much like the lifestyle of a hermit.
• Popularity: Hermit cookies became popular in the northeastern United States and are known for their robust flavor, which comes from the combination of molasses and spices. National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day was established to celebrate this classic cookie and its place in American culinary tradition.

Significance

National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day holds significant importance for several reasons:

1. Culinary Tradition: It celebrates a traditional American cookie that has been enjoyed for generations.
2. Seasonal Enjoyment: The warm spices and rich flavors of hermit cookies make them a perfect treat for the fall and winter seasons.
3. Baking Together: It encourages families and friends to bake and share cookies, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

How to Make Spicy Hermit Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup raisins or currants
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and eggs, and beat until well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the raisins or currants and nuts, if using.
5. Shape the Cookies:
   • Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake:
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies are lightly browned. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations of Hermit Cookies

1. Glazed Hermit Cookies:

   • Glaze: Prepare a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies for added sweetness and a decorative touch.

2. Cranberry Hermit Cookies:

   • Substitution: Replace the raisins or currants with dried cranberries for a tart and festive variation.

3. Chocolate Chip Hermit Cookies:

   • Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious combination of spices and chocolate.

4. Spiced Hermit Bars:

   • Bar Form: Spread the dough evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool and cut into bars.

Ways to Celebrate

1. Bake Hermit Cookies:

   • Family Baking: Gather family members and bake a batch of spicy hermit cookies together. Enjoy the process of measuring, mixing, and baking as a group activity.
   • Gift Giving: Package homemade hermit cookies in decorative tins or bags and give them as gifts to friends, neighbors, or coworkers.

2. Host a Cookie Exchange:

   • Exchange Event: Host a cookie exchange party where guests bring a batch of their favorite cookies to share. Exchange recipes and enjoy tasting a variety of cookies.
   • Themed Party: Make it a hermit cookie-themed party, encouraging guests to bring different variations of the classic cookie.

3. Visit a Bakery:

   • Local Treats: Visit a local bakery that makes hermit cookies. Support local businesses and enjoy professionally made versions of this traditional treat.
   • Special Orders: Place special orders for hermit cookies for holiday gatherings or special occasions.

4. Share on Social Media:

   • Photos and Recipes: Share pictures of your hermit cookie creations and favorite recipes on social media using hashtags like #SpicyHermitCookieDay and #HermitCookies.
   • Baking Tips: Post tips and tricks for making the perfect hermit cookies to help others in their baking endeavors.

5. Learn About Baking Traditions:

   • History of Hermit Cookies: Read about the history and origins of hermit cookies to gain a deeper appreciation for this traditional treat.
   • Baking Classes: Take a baking class to learn more about making hermit cookies and other classic baked goods.

Fun Facts About Hermit Cookies

1. Longevity: Hermit cookies are known for their long shelf life, which makes them an excellent treat for long journeys or for storing in the pantry.
2. Regional Variations: While most popular in New England, hermit cookies have variations across different regions, each adding unique ingredients or spices.
3. Holiday Favorite: Hermit cookies are often associated with the holiday season, thanks to their warm spices and rich flavors.

Inspirational Quotes About Baking

1. "Baking is both an art and a science." – Sherry Yard
2. "The smell of good bread baking, like the sound of lightly flowing water, is indescribable in its evocation of innocence and delight." – M.F.K. Fisher
3. "Cooking and baking is both physical and mental therapy." – Mary Berry

Conclusion

National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day is a celebration of a classic and flavorful cookie that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether baking hermit cookies at home, hosting a cookie exchange, visiting a local bakery, or sharing on social media, there are many ways to enjoy this special day. National Spicy Hermit Cookie Day encourages everyone to appreciate the rich flavors and comforting taste of hermit cookies, fostering a sense of tradition and community.