Boiled Raisin Cookies

*Be sure to follow directions as to putting recipe together

2 C raisins
1 C boiling water
1 C butter or margarine
1 3/4 C sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla
4 C flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp each, cloves, nutmeg and ground star anise (if you have it)
1 C coarsely chopped walnuts or pecans

In a small saucepan, pour boiling water over raisins, bring to a boil again and cook for five minutes. Remove from heat and cool raisins (do not drain!) to room temperature. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well between additions. In another bowl, stir flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices until well mixed. Add cooled raisin mixture to butter and egg mixture, mixing well. Add flour mixture, a little at a time until well mixed. Stir in nuts. Using a cookie scoop or two teaspoons, drop dough on to greased or parchment lined cookie sheets. Bake in a 350-degree oven for 16 minutes or until lightly browned. Makes five to six dozen cookies.