Gingerbread Hermits

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 375 degrees.
2. 2
   Butter and flour 3 pieces aluminum foil to fit baking sheets.
3. 3
   Using electric mixer, beat butter at medium speed until creamy.
4. 4
   Add brown sugar and beat until light, about 3 minutes.
5. 5
   Beat in 3 eggs, one at a time.
6. 6
   Add molasses and beat until smooth.
7. 7
   Sift flour, baking powder and soda, spices, and salt together.
8. 8
   Add to butter mixture and mix just until blended.
9. 9
   Stir in chopped ginger, the raisins, and nuts.
10. 10
    Using fingers, shape dough into 6 logs about 1 inch high and 1-1/2 inches wide, 2 on each piece of foil.
11. 11
    Dough spreads when baked, so space logs well apart.
12. 12
    Lightly beat remaining egg and brush over logs.
13. 13
    Bake on baking sheets on center rack of oven until golden but still quite soft, 10-14 minutes.
14. 14
    Let cool completely on foil on wire racks.
15. 15
    Cut logs crosswise into 2-inch-wide bars.
16. 16
    Store in airtight containers.