Filled Raisin Cookies

Filled Raisin Cookies: A Family Tradition

Ingredients:

For the Cream:

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup Crisco shortening
• 4 eggs
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla
• 1 cup milk

To Sift:

• 3 rounded teaspoons baking powder
• Approximately 7 cups flour (start with 6 and adjust as needed)

For the Filling:

• 3 boxes of raisins (approx. 12 oz., some may be left over)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• Finely grated orange rind of one medium orange
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
• Enough water to cover raisins

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

1. In a pan on the stove, combine raisins, sugar, orange zest, and enough water to cover the raisins.
2. Bring the mixture to a healthy simmer, stirring often.
3. In a separate bowl, blend cornstarch with a little water to remove lumps. Slowly pour into the raisin mixture and simmer until thickened.
4. Add chopped pecans, remove from heat, and let it cool until no longer hot.

Make the Dough:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cream together sugar, Crisco shortening, eggs, salt, vanilla, and milk in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together baking powder and flour (approximately 6-7 cups). Adjust the flour until you achieve a good rolling consistency.
4. Mix the sifted ingredients into the creamed mixture to form the cookie dough.

Assembly:

1. Roll out the dough on a well-floured surface to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Cut circles about 3 inches in diameter.
3. Place a scoop of the prepared raisin filling onto one cookie round, then cover with another and seal the edges. (You can use water to moisten the edges for a better seal.)
4. Optionally, use a tool like "cut-n-seal" to crimp the edges and aid in sealing.

Baking:

1. Bake the assembled cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until very lightly browned.
2. Consider using parchment paper to prevent any filling from bubbling out.

Cooling and Storage:

1. Allow the cookies to cool completely.
2. Store them in an airtight container. These cookies freeze exceptionally well.

Note: If there's leftover filling, it can be used in other treats like pies or strudels.

Enjoy these timeless Filled Raisin Cookies that have been a cherished family tradition for generations! 🍪✨