Jumbo Raisin Cookies

I think this is probably the one cookie that tastes best after it cools down.

2  cups  raisins

1  cup  apple juice

1  cup  shortening

2  cups  sugar

3  eggs

1  tsp  vanilla

4  cups  flour

1  tsp  baking powder

1  tsp  soda

1-1/2  tsp  salt

1 1/2 tsp  cinnamon

1/4  tsp  nutmeg

1/4  tsp  allspice

1/2  tsp  cloves

1  cup  chopped nuts, optional

Boil raisins in water or juice for 5 minutes. Cool. 

Cream shortening, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Add raisins, liquid and all. Stir in dry ingredients. Mix well.

Drop by medium sized ice cream scoop onto greased cookie sheet. Flatten slightly and sprinkle with turbinado (raw) sugar.

Bake for 10-12 minutes @350 degrees.