Grown-up Cookies!

Here are some cookies that will nicely grace your cookie plate and appeal to the more grown-up tastes in your household. I have to admit, however, that having coffee in them never stopped my children from eating them, too!

Coffee Intrigue Cookies

2 cups packed brown sugar
3/4 cup shortening
1 tablespoon finely chopped orange zest
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 eggs
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cloves
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup brewed coffee, cold
1 cup chopped raisins
1 cup chopped chocolate chips
1 cup toasted walnuts or pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Cream together the sugar, shortening, and orange zest. Add the egg and vanilla., mixing well. Mix together the flour, spices, baking soda and baking powder. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture. Add coffee until well blended. Stir in the raisins, nuts, and chocolate chips.

Drop by tablespoonfuls on greased baking sheets. Bake for approximately 15 minutes and cool on wire rack.