Hermit Cookies

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup shortening (or softened butter)

1/2 cup molasses

1 egg

1/2 cup lukewarm water (or warm coffee)

1 tsp. baking soda

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. nutmeg or cloves, if desired

1/2 tsp. salt

1 cup raisins or cut-up dates

Preheat oven to 350F. Grease cookie sheets.

Cream sugar and shortening (or softened butter); then add in molasses and egg. Add baking soda to water (or coffee), then gradually mix with creamed ingredients. Add spices and salt to flour, and then add to batter a little at a time. Add raisins or dates. Chill dough for 2 hours (but it is not necessary if you are in a hurry). For squares: Put on small cookie sheet and press flat (it might not fill the entire pan). Bake for 12 to 15 minutes in 350F oven. When just cool, cut into squares about 2-inches. Store in an airtight container.