Raisin Crisscross Cookies was one of my grandma's favorite recipes. Little crunchy cookies, filled with raisins and a hint of lemon, marked by a sweet crisscross pattern.
Preheat oven to 400°F. Gather the ingredients so you have everything close at hand on the counter or table. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Using a crinkle cutter or knife on a cutting board, chop the raisins. (I always use regular raisins for this recipe rather than golden raisins. While this step is optional, I prefer biting into smaller bits of dried fruit rather than larger pieces.)
Prepare the Dough
In large mixing bowl, cream the vegetable shortening, granulated sugar, large egg, and lemon extract.
In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to mix well.
Add flour mixture to the creamed sugar in 3 parts, mixing well after each addition. Scrap the sides of the bowl as needed. If necessary, you may add 1-2 tablespoons of water to make a soft dough. Stir in chopped raisins.
Form and Bake the Cookies
Using a spoon or a small disher scoop, roll dough into balls that are about 1 1/2 inches. (For this recipe I used my purple Vollrath 3/4 oz – size 40 scoop.)
Place balls on prepared baking sheet. Flatten with fork to make a crisscross pattern #. If the dough is sticky, you may dip your fork in flour for better release.
Bake the cookies in preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned on edges. Remove from oven and place cookies on a wire cooling rack.
This recipe will make 2 dozen cookies. Store in covered container for 3-5 days or place in freezer bags to freeze for 2-3 months. Makes 2 dozen.