2 c. seedless raisins
1 1/2 c. water
1 c. (2 sticks) butter
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. sugar
3 eggs
4 to 4 1/2 c. all-purpose flour, sifted
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tbsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 c. nuts (optional)

Simmer raisins in water for 5 minutes. Drain, saving 1/2 cup liquid. Blend butter, spices and vanilla. Add sugar gradually, creaming thoroughly. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Sift flour, baking powder and salt together. Add baking soda to the liquid (it will foam). Add flour mixture alternately with liquid to first mixture. Add raisins and nuts (if desired). Dough should be stiff. Drop by tablespoonfuls on a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes. These cookies stay soft.

Submitted by: Paula Howland