During hard times like the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, and the Gilded Age in the late 19th century, people had to stretch every penny, reuse everything they could, and find creative ways to get by with very little. The idea of wasting food, tossing old clothes, or buying new things instead of fixing things was unthinkable.
Back then, frugality wasn’t a lifestyle trend. It was survival. And while some of their old-fashioned habits may seem outdated today, many of them are surprisingly relevant, especially for anyone trying to save money, become more self-sufficient, or prepare for hard times.
In this article, we’ve gathered 15 frugal living tips inspired by the past, many of which you’ve probably never heard before. These aren’t your typical “clip coupons and shop sales” suggestions. These are time-tested habits from people who knew how to make do, use it up, and live well with less.
1. Barter for Goods and Services
Cash wasn’t always available, especially in rural communities. People traded eggs for milk, sewing for firewood, or labor for produce. Bartering built strong communities and kept everyone supplied without spending a dime.
2. Collect Rainwater
Water wasn’t taken for granted. Families collected rainwater for washing clothes, watering gardens, or even bathing in a pinch. With basic tools like barrels and gutters, it’s still a smart way to reduce your water bill and increase self-reliance. Here's how to get started.
3. Keep a “Mend and Repair” Basket
Before tossing anything out, older generations would patch it, sew it, or repurpose it. Socks, pants, and even sheets were routinely repaired. A small sewing kit and the will to fix things saved families countless dollars over time.
4. Layer Clothing Instead of Heating the Whole House
Before central heating, families wore extra layers indoors, used hot water bottles, and closed off unused rooms to conserve heat. It was all about warming people, not spaces. This mindset can save a surprising amount on utility bills.
5. Make Bone Broth from Scraps
Every animal bon was simmered for hours to extract every bit of nutrition. Bone broth was the base for soups and stews, giving flavor and nourishment from something most people today would throw away. It stretched meat further and provided valuable minerals.
6. Make Your Own Cleaning Products
Long before store-bought cleaners, people used things like baking soda, castile soap, and white vinegar to clean. In fact, you can clean your entire home with just those 3 things. People also used lemon juice, leftover soap slivers to clean their homes. These ingredients are cheap, effective, and still do the job today, without all the chemicals.
7. Repurpose Glass Jars and Tins
Glass jars from canned goods and metal tins from things like lard or tobacco were washed and reused to store food, seeds, buttons, or hardware. Nothing with a lid was ever thrown away. It was early zero-waste living without the marketing.
8. Reuse Tea Bags and Coffee Grounds
People would use a single tea bag multiple times, or stretch coffee grounds by rebrewing or mixing in roasted grains like chicory. It wasn’t ideal, but it kept the comfort of a hot drink going longer. In tight times, every little bit counts.
9. Salvage and Reuse Nails, Screws, and Wood
Nothing from a broken chair or torn-down shed went to waste. Old nails were pulled and straightened, and scrap wood was repurposed for kindling or building projects. Hardware was too valuable to toss.
10. Stretch Meat with Fillers
Meat was often mixed with breadcrumbs, oats, beans, or vegetables to make it go further. Meals like meatloaf, casseroles, and stews were designed to feed more people with less meat, a habit worth reviving as prices rise.
11. Turn Flour Sacks into Clothing
During the Great Depression, flour companies started printing floral patterns on their sacks because families were turning them into dresses, aprons, and kids’ clothes. It was a creative way to stretch resources, and it worked. Nothing was wasted, and utility came before fashion.
12. Use Ashes for Cleaning
Wood ash wasn’t just waste, it was a valuable resource. It was mixed with water to make lye soap, used as a scouring powder, or even to clean glass and deodorize outhouses. It’s an old-school cleaning solution that cost nothing.
13. Use Fabric Scraps for Quilts or Rags
Old clothing, flour sacks, and fabric scraps were turned into patchwork quilts, cleaning rags, or braided rugs. Nothing was thrown away if it could be repurposed. This not only saved money but added comfort and color to the home.
14. Use Homemade Remedies First
Instead of running to the doctor or pharmacy, people relied on simple home remedies: onion syrup for coughs, mustard plasters for chest congestion, or herbal teas for stomach issues. These time-tested treatments often worked and cost next to nothing. Here's how to build an herbal medicine chest.
15. Use the Ends of Everything
Whether it was a bar of soap, a loaf of bread, or a candle, nothing was wasted. Soap slivers were melted together into a new bar, stale bread became croutons or pudding, and candle stubs were remelted into new tapers.
Today, I want to share my homemade cream of mushroom soup recipe. Here’s the deal: I stock canned cream of mushroom soup, but this mushroom soup is different. You can make this creamy, rich, mushroom soup in less than an hour.
When fall hits, I’m ready for soup; any soup can make my day, especially if it’s made from scratch. I wish you could smell how heavenly this soup smells, let alone taste it. It looks gourmet or restaurant quality, need I say more? It seems like we worked all day to make this yummy soup.
There is something so comforting when you put your spoon in the bowl to taste that first spoonful of soup. One thing I love about this soup is the fact that you can add your dehydrated or freeze-dried mushrooms if you’d like. Either way, they taste great and add flavor and texture to this truly homemade soup.
Today, I’m using fresh mushrooms; you can use any mushroom variety you choose. It’s all about the flavor.
Butter: Adding a little bit of fat to this soup helps bring out a lot of flavors.
Heavy Cream: The fantastic thing about the cream is that it will not curdle when you boil it. It’s a thickener for soups and sauces. Of course, when it’s whipped, it’s the perfect topping for many desserts.
Chicken Broth: Adds flavor and serves as a good base for the soup.
White Flour: adds substance and thickness to the soup.
Vegetable Oil to Sauté Onions and Garlic: Sautéing before adding to the soup helps to soften and caramelize the onions and garlic.
Onions: A staple in most soups, they add robust flavor and texture.
Garlic: Garlic adds an almost nutty flavor. You can even bake them or eat them raw. They enhance the flavor of any dish. Raw garlic has a more pungent taste and hence a stronger smell.
Fresh Mushrooms: Mushrooms give a lot of flavor and chunkiness to this recipe.
Chicken Bouillon: Bouillon adds a rich flavor. It can be used to make broth or added to a sauce to enhance flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Both spices add flavor and help to bring all of the flavors together.
Fresh Thyme: Thyme has a very distinct, almost minty flavor. If fresh thyme is used, it is preferable to use just the leaves and discard the stems.
Fresh Parsley: Parsley adds a bit of mild bitterness to any recipe. It helps to balance out the flavors in savory dishes.
Marsala: mushrooms and Marsala are an excellent combination, and they are often cooked together in many recipes. Marsala is known for its rich color and sweetness. It’s generally a very mild flavor, but it adds a great splash of flavor.
Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Step One: Gather the Ingredients
Step Two: Sauté Onions & Garlic
Sauté the onions and garlic in oil until slightly tender.
Step Three: Add Mushrooms to Mixture
Remove the pan from the stove. Add the freshly sliced mushrooms to the onion and garlic mixture. Set the pan aside.
Step Four: Melt Butter
Grab a large soup pan and melt the butter in it.
Step Five: Add Flour – Make Roux
Add the flour to the soup pot to make a roux, and whisk constantly.
Step Six: Stir in Broth & Cream
Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Continue to stir or whisk constantly.
Step Seven: Add Bouillon Cubes & Spices
Add the crumbled chicken bouillon cubes. Stir until thoroughly mixed into the soup. Add salt and pepper.
Step Eight: Add All Ingredients Together
Add the onion, garlic, and mushrooms to the soup. Then add the Marsala wine and thyme to the soup pot. I used 1-1/2 teaspoons of dried thyme instead of fresh.
2tablespoonsof oil to slightly cook the chopped onions and minced garlic
2clovesof garlic, minced or chopped
2onions, finely chopped
3poundsof freshly sliced mushrooms
2cubeschicken or beef bouillon (crumbled)
1-2teaspoonssalt
1teaspoonground black pepper
1/2cupof Marsala cooking wine
4teaspoonsof fresh thyme, finely chopped or 1-1/2 teaspoons of dried thyme
chopped fresh parsley, optional to garnish just before serving
Instructions
1. Sauté the onions and garlic in oil until slightly tender. Remove the pan from the stove.2. Add the freshly sliced mushrooms to the onion and garlic mixture. Set the pan aside.3. Grab a large soup pan and melt the butter in it.4. Add the flour to the soup pot to make a roux, and whisk constantly.5. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Continue to stir or whisk constantly.6. Add the crumbled chicken or beef bouillon cubes. Stir until thoroughly mixed into the soup.7. Add the onion, garlic, and mushrooms to the soup.8. Add the Marsala wine and the thyme in the soup pot.9. Add salt and ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: A Timeless Comfort Food Classic
Cream of mushroom soup is one of those humble, comforting dishes that has quietly earned its place in kitchens for generations. Rich, velvety, and deeply savory, this beloved soup brings together the earthy flavor of mushrooms with smooth creaminess to create a bowl of pure comfort, whether enjoyed on its own or used as a versatile cooking staple. Cream of mushroom soup remains a timeless favorite.
Why Cream of Mushroom Soup Is So Popular
Few soups strike the perfect balance between simple ingredients and luxurious flavor quite like cream of mushroom soup. Its popularity stems from its ability to feel both hearty and refined at once. The natural umami of mushrooms delivers depth, while the creamy base provides warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
This soup is especially beloved during cooler months, but its versatility makes it a year-round favorite. It can be served as a starter, a light lunch, or used as a flavor-boosting base for countless comfort food dishes.
The Flavor Profile That Keeps Us Coming Back
Cream of mushroom soup is known for its earthy, savory character. Mushrooms bring a deep, woodsy richness that pairs beautifully with creamy textures. When properly balanced, the soup offers a smooth mouthfeel with layers of flavor that feel cozy, familiar, and indulgent without being overwhelming.
The aroma alone, warm, savory, and slightly nutty, can instantly evoke memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings.
A Pantry Staple With Endless Uses
Beyond being enjoyed as a soup, cream of mushroom soup has long been a trusted pantry staple. Home cooks rely on it to add richness and depth to casseroles, baked dishes, slow-cooker meals, and comfort food classics. Its creamy consistency helps bind ingredients together while enhancing flavor without overpowering other components.
From holiday side dishes to weeknight dinners, this soup has earned its reputation as a reliable kitchen essential.
A Nod to Tradition and Homemade Comfort
For many families, cream of mushroom soup carries a sense of nostalgia. It often brings back memories of handwritten recipe cards, shared meals, and comforting dishes passed down through generations. While modern variations exist, the heart of this soup remains rooted in simplicity and tradition.
It’s a reminder that some of the best comfort foods don’t need to be complicated—they just need to be made with care and enjoyed slowly.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Cream of mushroom soup fits seamlessly into nearly any meal plan. It’s elegant enough to serve at a dinner party yet comforting enough for a quiet evening at home. Paired with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or enjoyed on its own, it delivers warmth and satisfaction every time.
Do I have to use both chicken broth and chicken bouillon?
The chicken broth gives the soup the base it needs, and the chicken bouillon adds bursts of flavor by crumbling the concentrated cubes into the soup. They truly are both required. Today I used beef bouillon because I had it in the pantry.
Do I have to use mushrooms, or can I use a different ingredient?
The mushrooms really make this recipe, along with the richness of the cream and other tasty ingredients. The combination of the listed ingredients makes for a delicious soup that can be served for any occasion.
Do I have to sauté the onions and garlic, or can I add them to the soup while it cooks?
Sautéing the onions and garlic is a must! By doing this, you are caramelizing the onions and garlic, and it adds such a fantastic flavor and texture to the soup.
Does using half-and-half change the flavor of the soup, or do I need to use heavy cream?
It really depends on the thickness that you are looking for. I love using the heavy cream! It gives the soup heartiness, along with the mushrooms. Such a delicious combination! Adding in the flavor of the Marsala wine, you are in for a fantastic treat!!
You are definitely welcome to tailor this recipe to the thickness that works for your family, and to reduce calories and fat by using half-and-half.
Can I sauté the mushrooms with the onions and garlic as well?
I highly recommend only sautéing the onions and garlic! If you sauté the mushrooms, they will release additional moisture into the soup. We want the mushrooms’ flavor and chunkiness, but not the added liquid.
Is the type of flour used in the recipe necessary?
Here’s the deal with the flour in this recipe. I only stock white all-purpose flour and bread flour. I can’t recommend another flour because the consistency may not be satisfactory.
You could use a 1:1 Red Mill Gluten-Free flour substitute, but if you have gluten issues, you probably already know which flour works in your recipes for white sauce or gravy.
Is it best to simmer this soup on high, medium, or medium-high heat?
I would recommend simmering this soup on medium heat. This will allow the soup to cook at a reasonable rate without overcooking the ingredients.
Is there a way to make this soup dairy-free? Would coconut milk or other alternative milk taste good?
Substituting dairy-free milk for this recipe will change the consistency and flavor of the soup. You may need to play around a bit with what your family will enjoy. I have found that oat milk generally has a milder, thicker consistency, whereas coconut or rice milk is quite a bit thinner. Almond milk is a little denser than coconut or rice milk, but it has a stronger flavor, which could change the taste of the soup. Again, you may have to try a couple of different kinds of milk to see what you and your family like and go from there.
Would this soup taste good served with a side salad?
This cream of mushroom soup would taste wonderful with a side salad, along with a roll or slice of bread. I have added some other suggestions below!
What is the best type of mushroom to use in this recipe? Would cremini mushrooms taste good? Button mushrooms?
I would highly recommend using any of the three mushrooms in the button family. Please see below for a description of the three: button, cremini, and portobello. Any of the three mushrooms would taste delicious and are generally easy to find in any grocery store. I have added some additional information regarding different mushroom varieties if you are interested in trying something other than the more common mushrooms.
Would an immersion blender work well for blending all the ingredients?
I would highly recommend using any blender, but an immersion blender would work really well.
Would vegetable stock or chicken stock be an option as a substitute for the broth and bouillon?
I recommend using broth and bouillon in this recipe. Using stock would create a thicker consistency for the soup, which is not what we are looking for, given the thickness the cream and flour will add. The broth and bouillon will create a thinner consistency and add much more flavor than stock.
Are there any additional herbs that would taste good in this soup?
Thyme adds a succulent flavor to this recipe! Sage would also be a great addition if desired.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
For any food sensitivity or allergy, please review each ingredient in the recipe and on any product label to ensure it complies with your dietary restrictions. *White flour is added, which makes this recipe not gluten-free.*
Is there a way to lower the sodium level in this recipe?
There are a variety of options to lower the sodium level. Each broth and/or bouillon can be found sold as reduced or sodium-free. It may change the recipe’s flavor due to the lower sodium content.
Can I pressure can this recipe?
No, because of the flour, this recipe would be unsafe to can for our families. Any thickening agent slows heat penetration throughout the product. Heat must be distributed evenly and at a high enough temperature to destroy mold, yeast, and bacteria.
Mushroom Types:
Button: most common mushroom; young in age compared to other mushrooms; perfect for sautéing.
Cremini: older version of a button mushroom; great for soups and stews; firmer and browner (due to age) than the more common button mushrooms, which helps to retain some of the texture while sautéing and cooking.
Portabello: the oldest version of a button mushroom; larger and more flavorful than button and cremini.
Hedgehog: orange or yellow caps; tends to have a fruity smell; delicious sautéd in butter and herbs, such as sage or thyme.
Maitake: best served cooked or sautéd; they tend to have a strong, earthy, and savory flavor.
Morel: a more expensive mushroom due to scarcity; tends to have a firmer texture and a bit of a nutty flavor; known for its honeycomb texture.
Shiitake: the caps are generally used, and the stems are discarded because they’re a little tricky.
Porcini: an excellent variety for recipes that use a heavy cream sauce; known for its white stem and red/brown cap.
I hope you and your family enjoy this rich, hearty, and tasty cream of mushroom soup recipe! It is one of my absolute favorites! The taste and aroma of this soup will make you and your family go back for a second helping or a third! Please let me know which mushroom variety you and your family enjoyed. There are so many different options you can choose to suit your family’s taste buds. The combination of the mushrooms, garlic, onions, thyme, and heavy cream makes this a soup to remember and a staple in any home!
Cream of mushroom soup is more than just a classic; it’s a symbol of comfort, versatility, and timeless flavor. Whether you savor it by the bowl or use it as a trusted ingredient in your favorite dishes, this creamy, savory soup continues to earn its place in kitchens everywhere. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly comforting, cream of mushroom soup is a true staple worth celebrating. It’s all about teaching our kids and grandkids how to cook from scratch! May God bless this world, Linda
If you’ve ever picked up a small bag of beef jerky, checked the price, and felt personally attacked, you’re not imagining things. Beef jerky isn’t expensive because companies feel like flexing on you. It’s expensive because it sits at the intersection of meat prices, energy costs, labor, shrinkage, and survival-grade processing. Jerky looks small, but […]
Invisible, constant, and often ignored, EMF signals are invading American homes. For those who value self-reliance and off-grid living, these signals are a measurable intrusion into your environment. Dirty electricity, also known as high-frequency voltage transients riding on standard household wiring, can affect sleep and even influence long-term health. Every device contributes differently, and knowing […]
The best raisin-filled cookies aren’t about trends or extravagance; they’re about comfort, memory, and enduring flavor. With their soft texture, warmly spiced filling, and old-fashioned charm, these cookies remain a beloved favorite across generations. One bite is often all it takes to understand why they’ve stood the test of time. If you’re looking for a cookie that feels like home, raisin-filled cookies are always the right choice.
When I was growing up, my mom taught me how to make the best raisin-filled cookies in the world. Literally. She also made them with a fabulous date filling, but raisin filling is my favorite. The cookies are slightly crispy on the outside, but the inner cookie and filling are moist and chewy. Man, it makes my mouth water just talking about them. It was a holiday tradition to see flour all over my mom’s blouse. I don’t remember ever seeing her wear an apron. Well, maybe once or twice.
Apron or No Aprons?
I only wear an apron when I’m frying scones or something that will spatter grease. She would make all our favorite cookies, and of course, our family’s traditional Norwegian Lefse. Lefse is very similar to flour tortillas, but it’s made with mashed potatoes. I love, love, love Lefse. But my husband and my daughters don’t care for it. I used to put butter and brown sugar on mine and then roll them up right off the griddle. Many of my ancestors are from Norway; perhaps that’s why I grew to love it so much.
Usually, I put things away as I bake, but with this recipe, you need to keep your bucket of flour close by because the dough is a little sticky. I called my sister to find the recipe for these because I had seen three different handwritten and typed recipes from my mom and grandmother. Hint: get all your mom’s favorite recipes from her BEFORE she passes away.
My mom made the best cheesecake I’ve ever tasted. She even sold them to neighbors because they were so good. Well, we have some recipes that have many different ingredients, temperatures, or whatever for the same desired product. So, the question is which recipe is correct…. This is the best raisin-filled cookie recipe, but I had to adjust some things and make it my own.
Cookie Ingredients Explained
Each ingredient in these classic raisin-filled cookies plays an essential role in creating their soft texture, rich flavor, and old-fashioned charm.
Sugar
Sugar provides sweetness, of course, but it also helps create a tender cookie with lightly crisp edges. It contributes to browning during baking and balances the warm spices found in the raisin filling.
Butter (Softened)
Softened butter is the foundation of flavor in these cookies. It adds richness, moisture, and that unmistakable homemade taste. Properly softened butter creams smoothly with sugar, helping create a soft, cake-like texture rather than a dense or greasy cookie.
Egg
The egg acts as a binder, holding the dough together while adding structure and moisture. It also helps give the cookies a slightly fluffy interior, ensuring they stay soft rather than crumbly.
Milk
Milk adds moisture and tenderness to the dough, making it easier to roll and shape. It also softens the flour proteins, which helps prevent the cookies from becoming tough.
Vanilla
Vanilla enhances all the other flavors in the cookie. While subtle, it adds warmth and depth that complements both the buttery dough and the sweet raisin filling.
Cream of Tartar
Cream of tartar is a key ingredient in many vintage cookie recipes. It gives these cookies a slight tang and helps create a soft, tender crumb. When paired with baking soda, it also aids in leavening.
Salt
Salt balances the sweetness and brings out the buttery and vanilla flavors. Even a small amount makes a noticeable difference in the cookie’s overall taste.
Baking Soda
Baking soda reacts with the cream of tartar to help the cookies rise. This reaction creates a lighter texture and prevents the cookies from becoming flat or dense.
Flour
Flour provides structure and stability. Using the right amount ensures the cookies are sturdy enough to hold the raisin filling while remaining soft and tender. Too little flour can cause spreading, while too much can make the cookies dry.
Raisin Filling Ingredients Explained
The raisin filling is the heart of these cookies, offering a rich, jam-like center that sets them apart from ordinary cookies.
Raisins
Raisins provide natural sweetness and a deep, caramelized fruit flavor. When cooked, they soften and release their sugars, creating a thick, flavorful filling with a classic old-fashioned taste.
Water
Water helps soften the raisins and cook them down into a smooth, spreadable filling. It ensures the mixture doesn’t burn and helps achieve the perfect consistency.
Sugar
Additional sugar enhances the raisins’ natural sweetness and helps create a syrupy texture. As it cooks, it thickens the filling and gives it that rich, glossy appearance.
Flour
Flour acts as a thickening agent, helping the raisin mixture set as it cools. This keeps the filling from leaking out during baking and gives it a smooth, cohesive texture.
Step One: Gather Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F(176°C). Gather your ingredients so you are ready to prepare the cookies to be baked.
Step Two: Cream Ingredients Without The Flour
Cream the butter, milk, egg, sugar, and spices.
Step Three: Add Flour
Add the flour to the liquid mixture.
Step Four: Mix the Dough
Mix the dough until completely smooth.
Step Five: Make The Raisin Filling
The raisin or date filling is straightforward to make, dump, and stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer. Stir constantly.
Step Six: Cook Down The Mixture
Cook down the mixture, stirring constantly. Place the mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight; it thickens even more.
Step Seven: Flour The Countertop
First, you’ll flour the countertop or pastry cloth.
Step Eight: Cut Out The Cookies
Then roll out the dough about 1/8 inch thick. Cut with a circular cookie cutter.
Step Nine: Place The First Layer of Cookie
You’ll carefully lift the cookies with a spatula and put them on a silicone mat or a greased cookie sheet.
Step Ten: Scoop The Filling
Place a heaping tablespoon of filling on the bottom cookie.
Step Eleven: Cover with Another Cookie and Pinch The Edges
Place another circular cookie on top and pinch the edges with a fork or, in my case, my thumbs.
Step Twelve: Ready To Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F(176°C), and depending on how thick you roll out your cookie dough, bake for 15-20 minutes. They’ll be very light brown. You can bake them longer if you like your cookies crispier. I also sometimes sprinkle a little sugar on top of the cookies before baking them. Let them cool and enjoy them. They freeze very well.
Combine all of the ingredients except the flour. Cream until smooth, and slowly add the flour one cup at a time.
Flour the countertop and roll out the sticky dough with a floured rolling pin to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
Use a cookie cutter to cut out the size of the cookie you desire.
Raisin Filling Instructions
Combine the ingredients in a saucepan and stir constantly. Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer until thickened.
Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Scoop one heaping tablespoon of the filling into the middle of one rolled-out cookie circle, then place another cookie on top.
Pinch the edges together with your fingers or a fork.
Bake for 10-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the cookie dough.
Please feel free to bake longer if you like a crisp cookie. This recipe makes 12-24 cookies, depending on the size of the cutter you use and how thick you cut them.
Drinks to Serve with Raisin-Filled Cookies
Coffee or Espresso
The slightly bitter notes of coffee beautifully balance the sweetness of the raisin filling.
Hot Tea
Black tea, chai, or spiced teas enhance the warm flavors in the cookies without overpowering them.
Cold Milk
A timeless pairing that softens each bite and highlights the cookie’s tender texture.
Hot Chocolate
Perfect for colder months, adding an extra layer of comfort and richness.
Apple Cider
Warm or chilled cider pairs wonderfully with the natural sweetness of raisins and spices.
Dessert Pairings
Vanilla Ice Cream
Serve the cookies slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting, classic dessert.
Whipped Cream or Sweetened Cream Cheese Dip
Light and creamy options that contrast nicely with the dense raisin filling.
Custard or Bread Pudding
A nostalgic dessert spread works beautifully with raisin-filled cookies on the side.
Snack & Spread Ideas
Fresh Fruit
Apples, pears, or grapes keep the plate light while complementing the cookie’s flavors.
Cheese Board Additions
Mild cheeses like cheddar, Colby, or cream cheese balance sweetness with savory notes.
Nut Mix or Candied Pecans
Adds crunch and pairs well with the warm, caramel-like raisin filling.
When to Serve Them
Afternoon coffee breaks
Holiday cookie trays
After-school snacks
Church gatherings and potlucks
Gift tins and care packages
Raisin-filled cookies are at their best when served, surrounded by warm drinks, familiar flavors, and good company. Soft Sugar Cookies
A Cookie Rooted in Tradition
Raisin-filled cookies trace their roots back to frugal, practical home kitchens where nothing went to waste. Dried fruit like raisins was affordable, shelf-stable, and naturally sweet, making it a perfect ingredient for desserts during times when sugar and fresh fruit were scarce. Many families passed these cookies down through handwritten recipe cards, often associated with grandparents, church socials, and holiday tins.
These cookies became especially popular in the early to mid-20th century, when home baking was a daily ritual and simple ingredients were transformed into memorable treats. Today, raisin-filled cookies continue to evoke that same sense of warmth and tradition.
What Makes Raisin-Filled Cookies So Special
Unlike ordinary drop cookies, raisin-filled cookies offer layers of texture and flavor. The outer cookie is typically soft and cake-like, gently spiced and mildly sweet. Inside, the raisin filling provides a deep, caramelized fruit flavor with hints of cinnamon and vanilla. The contrast between the tender cookie and the smooth, rich filling is what makes these cookies truly unforgettable.
They are sweet without being overpowering, making them perfect for those who appreciate classic desserts over overly sugary treats.
Flavor Profile and Texture
The best raisin-filled cookies balance sweetness, spice, and softness. Warm spices complement the natural sweetness of raisins, while the filling remains thick and spreadable rather than sticky or runny. When baked correctly, the cookies stay moist for days, often tasting even better after they’ve had time to rest.
These cookies are hearty enough to feel satisfying, yet delicate enough to pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Raisin-filled cookies shine during the fall and winter months, but they’re welcome year-round. They make excellent additions to:
Holiday cookie trays and gift boxes
Afternoon coffee or tea breaks
After-school snacks
Church suppers and potlucks
Care packages and homemade gifts
Because they store well and travel easily, they’re an excellent choice for baking ahead or sharing with loved ones.
In recent years, there’s been a renewed appreciation for vintage and old-fashioned desserts. Home bakers are rediscovering classic cookies that emphasize flavor and simplicity over decoration. Raisin-filled cookies fit perfectly into this movement, offering comfort, history, and timeless appeal in every bite.
Final Word
Whether you grew up enjoying these cookies or are discovering them for the first time, they represent everything excellent about traditional baking: simple ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and the joy of sharing something homemade.
When you were growing up, did your mom or grandmother make a cookie like this? I love to hear from you. Thanks for being prepared for the unexpected. May God bless this world, Linda
Self-sufficiency is a noble and empowering goal. The idea that you can live independently and free from all the costs and limitations of the outside world is both attractive and encouraging. But it comes with a price.
Self-sufficiency is a significant responsibility. It essentially means you’re on your own to provide for everything you need to live safely and comfortably. How self-sufficient you become can vary, but total self-sufficiency takes planning and a careful analysis of everything you'll have to do along with how to do it.
Throughout this article, we’re going to share links to more detailed information and checklists for items to stockpile or assemble. Self-sufficiency isn't easy, but once you understand some of the basic concepts, it gets easier.
Here are the basics:
Power Generation
Most people who live self-sufficiently are off the grid. They usually use solar power to generate electricity, but some also use wind power and even small-scale hydroelectric power. They also set up systems to store the power they generate, whether through lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries, or solar power banks.
Getting off the grid is a giant step towards self-sufficiency, but you have to do your homework to assess how much power you need, how you’ll store it, and how to use it efficiently.
Without power you are going to need alternative solutions for water collection and storage. A had pump drilled into the ground is a simple solution. So are rainwater collection systems, RAM pumps on a creek or river, and even snow and ice in winter.
When there’s no power to deliver water, you have to find ways to find, harvest, purify, and store your own. Combining solutions can help, but here again, you’re on your own.
Just as important is proper filtration and purification. It’s not just about collecting water but properly treating it so it’s safe to drink. Boiling for at least 3 minutes is fairly foolproof, but water treatment tablets for immediate purification and long-term storage are just as important.
Gardening is an obvious solution, and anyone pursuing a self-sufficient lifestyle is an avid gardener. In fact, a truly self-sufficient lifestyle results in gardens stretching across a property, from vertical gardens to barrel gardens to potato towers.
If there’s a bare plot of land, there’s something growing there that you can either eat or use for medicinal purposes.
Animal husbandry is another hallmark of a self-sufficient lifestyle. Chickens are a good place to start (especially when you consider the price of eggs these days.) But rabbits, ducks, turkeys, and even pigs and goats can join the homestead to bring protein to the plate.
Goats are popular with many homesteaders as a source of goat milk and ultimately goat cheese. Sheep are a possibility as a food source and source of wool, and if you have the space and the inclination, you can step up to cattle or dairy cows.
Once again, this depends a lot on your location, but even suburban yards can be a source for wild foraging. Dandelions, plantains and even clover have micronutrients on par with spinach and kale, and any fruit trees you plant will always give you a late summer and early fall harvest.
If there are local lakes and rivers, you can always go fishing. And if you're in a forested area, hunting is always a possibility. Even that rabbit that raids your vegetable garden is fair game.
The ability to properly and safely preserve the foods you grow or raise is another critical skillset for self-sufficiency. It starts with basic canning to drying and dehydrating, smoking, and fermenting.
The ability to stockpile and safely store the food you grow and raise is a crucial step toward the self-sufficient lifestyle.
Most of us live in an area subject to winter temperatures. Wood fired heat from a stove is the obvious self-sufficient solution, but it assumes you have access to a reliable and steady supply of firewood.
If you don’t, a pellet stove is an alternative, but you’ll need to buy pellets to keep it going. On average a ton of pellets totaling 50 forty-pound bugs runs about $250 or more depending on your location. A bag usually lasts two days in cold weather.
Propane is another option but once again you’re buying the propane. Wood heat from firewood you chop and split is the pure self-sufficient solution but not all of us are lucky enough to live in or around a deep forest.
We take it for granted but without electricity, refrigeration is a challenge. Refrigerator/freezers are power hogs and while propane refrigerators offer a solution it also puts us back to a dependence on a supply of propane.
Root cellars are the traditional solution and can keep many fruits, vegetables and canned goods safely cool. It’s not so good for meat and seafood and they should either be canned, dried or smoked.
Winter months offer some free opportunities for refrigeration and freezing and many self-sufficient homesteads have a “cold room: where a window is always open to keep the temperatures cool. It’s a balancing act but it’s self-sufficient.
Air-conditioning is the biggest power hog off-grid. Fans are the simplest solutions especially if they are solar powered. There are also clever ventilation solutions inviting cool air in and venting hot air out. How far you go with any cooling solutions depends a lot on your location and the local temperatures in summer.
Lighting is another self-sufficient solution. Our pioneer ancestors used candles and lanterns but today we have solar lights and LED bulbs that make lighting solutions a lot easier.
Nothing gets done without tools and a battery-operated tool that can be recharged with a solar panel is a great idea. Then again, traditional hand tools are always a steady option and anyone pursuing a self-sufficient lifestyle should have traditional hand tools in their workshop.
This would include axes, saws, carpentry tools, plumbing tools, and all of the conventional wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers and assorted hammers and sledges. And don’t forget to collect and stockpile hardware wherever you find it.
This is where things get serious. Many people pursuing a self-sufficient lifestyle live remotely. That can mean that conventional medical services are at a distance or even unavailable. What’s critical is to anticipate possibilities.
A good first step is an expedition level first aid kit. It has just about everything you need to manage a medical emergency including a range of diagnostic equipment.
Another consideration is related to medicines. A large and full stock of over-the -counter medicines makes a lot of sense. You never know what’s going to show up so anticipate.
Prescription medications are another story. There are Canadian pharmacies where you can buy prescription meds in bulk, or you can ask your doctor for a script for a 90-day supply. Most medical plans will cover a 90-day prescription refill.
There’s also an extreme option using veterinary meds as a substitute for traditional prescription medications.
Here’s a link with more information but this is a desperate and potentially dangerous option.
When there is no pharmacy, you have to improvise. That’s what self-sufficiency is all about and for centuries people have used natural cures to treat a variety of conditions.
It also makes sense to plant a medicinal herb garden and not only understand which herbs to use, but how to prepare them. Most have the same benefits of over-the-counter medications and some even provide the relief of pharmaceuticals.
It’s hard for most of us to imagine life without our car or truck. But the Amish have found solutions and it’s not just about horses and buggies. Bicycles are a common form of transportation for many Amish families including bikes with a carriage attached to the back to transport both goods and people. Some of these setups are bicycles built for two to add horsepower or “leg-power” for transport.
This gets back to a fundamental definition of self-sufficiency. It’s the ability to compensate for things using yourself as the source of inspiration, action and power.
Everything breaks. Eventually. What’s important is to stockpile and assemble the things you need to just basically fix it. This goes beyond tools to salvaging and stockpiling hardware, assembling and saving materials like scrap wood and roofing shingles. It’s not about hoarding but it comes close. If it has value and you might need it someday -find a place to keep it and store it.
This applies to any vehicles as well. Change your own oil, fix your own tires, know how to maintain a car battery, assemble the basics to keep your vehicles running even if it’s that bicycle built for two.
This is a complex challenge, It’s not just about bathing, but human waste management, laundry, and general cleaning. And if there’s no garbage service you need to figure out how to deal with anything you have to throw away. Here are the sanitation subsets:
Bathing
All you really need is a bucket of water, some soap and a towel to take care of some general bathing needs, but there are solar shower setups that can let you take a warm shower outdoors and there’s always that big washtub as an option.
Many wood-stoves have a reservoir attached to the side that can hold and heat up to 30 gallons of water to not only help with bathing but laundry as well.
Many people who live off-the-grid have both an outhouse outdoors and a composting toilet indoors. The composting toilet is nice to have in winter. If you’ve ever sat in an outhouse in January, you know why an indoor toilet option is a good idea.
There are a variety of ways to do laundry, and most involve nothing more than a wash tub and a washboard. You also need soap and maybe a second tub or 5-gallon bucket for rinsing.
Drying is done on clothes lines but once again, winter presents some challenges. You can make an indoor drying rack that will not only give you a place to dry your clothes. But add humidity to the very dry wood-fired heat.
A self-sufficient lifestyle is both active and a bit dirty. Eventually you have to wash the floors, do the dishes, and just wipe down counters and cabinets. A bucket and mop is a good place to start but remember that vinegar is a great, natural disinfectant on floors and countertops. A dish rack to allow dishes to dry also makes sense.
You have a few options to consider with garbage. You can burn it, bury it, recycle it or compost it. How you manage garbage depends a lot on where you live, but if you don’t have garbage service you need to improvise.
Recycling aluminum, plastic and other metals is a good idea. If there’s a local store or location that pays you for recycled metals you’re in luck. Worst case scenario is to bury it but few people like the idea. It all depends on your situation and location.
If you have a way to generate power and a satellite Internet connection, you’re in luck. That not only lets you use a laptop to communicate via email and social media, but gives you access to a wealth of information about anything.
A cell-phone of wireless mobile device also makes sense. Whether it’s just keeping in touch with family and friends or having the option to contact emergency services – a cell phone makes sense.
HAM radio is also highly recommended and has historically been the self-sufficient survival communication platform of choice. You need to take some classes and get licensed, but it’s one of the ultimate self-sufficient communication options.
Simpler and more basic solutions fall in the category of CB radios and other two-way radios. If you live on a large property with multiple family members or friends, it makes sense to think about two-way radios as an option. They’re pretty cheap, easy to use and try to power them with solar rechargeable batteries. That just makes sense.
Many off-grid and self-sufficient homesteads are in remote locations. That helps as wild locations present more natural options related to water, firewood, fishing, foraging and hunting. But living in the middle of nowhere has a downside and while out of sight, out of mind is a good idea -remote areas are sometimes vulnerable to trespassers, poachers and others.
Good locks on doors and windows make sense, and a fence can at least discourage trespassing. A chain across the front of long-driveway is standard police recommendation, and having something as basic as a dog in the house can not only deter trespassing but alert you to something going on outside.
Perimeter lighting that’s motion activated and solar powered is another effective security deterrent as well as audible alarms and even motion activated video cameras.
How far you go with personal and property security has a lot to do with your location, the local situation and your personal feeling about security. Here are some links to various subjects related to security for a self-sufficient lifestyle:
You can stockpile all of the equipment and supplies you can think of but what sets apart someone who is self-sufficient is their knowledge and skills. The Internet is a good source of information and there’s no shortage of YouTube videos covering many subjects in depth.
Take the time to learn more, and it also may be wise to put together a library of books on various self-sufficient subjects. If you ever find yourself without power or Internet access it’s good to have a reliable fallback like a good book.
Self-sufficiency seems to be defined by stockpiling and a good bit of preparation, but it’s really about a way of thinking, Our motivations for self-sufficiency vary. Some of us just are tired of over-paying for utilities and products. Others are genuinely concerned about the lack of goods and services.
Regardless of the reason, a self-sufficient mindset is a source of independence. It's reassuring to know that no matter what may occur, you have the will and the wherewithal to survive and thrive in the best and worst of times. These days it’s hard to know which way things will turn, but if you can keep a focus on self-sufficient behaviors and actions it just makes sense to continue to think and act that way.
