Yum, don't these cookies look good? Thanks to Rosalyn in Ireland for giving these cookies a whirl and sharing the photo! Ranger cookies are a common confection found in Amish bakeries and kitchens across the country. They've got a good crunchy taste and are a nice alternative to something chocolately and decadent (not that I don't like chocolately and decadent!). These cookies are sometimes called "Ranger Joe Cookies". Their origins are unclear, but they likely became a fast-favorite among the Amish because of the accessibility of these ingredients. Most Amish cooks already have such staples in their pantry.
The recipe below is for cookies but, really, I see no reason why you couldn't do these as a "bar"...follow the instructions below but pour everything into an 9 X 13 pan (two if there's that much batter) and bake at 350 maybe for 15 minutes instead of 10. Just use a toothpick test to see if it comes out done.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup shortening, softened
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 /2 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups puffed rice cereal
- 2 cups quick-cooking rolled oats
- Preheat the oven to 400. In a large bowl, cream the sugars and shortening.
- Add the beaten eggs and vanilla to the shortening mixture.
- Mix thoroughly. In a separate bowl, sift together the salt, baking soda, baking powder, and flour. Add to the wet mixture.
- Stir in the cereal and oats.
- Roll the dough into walnut sized balls and place 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake until golden brown around the edges, 10 minutes.
- Cool and then store in sealed containers, will keep for up to 5 days.
Leave a Reply