Fat Raisins for Bill Clinton's Favorite Oatmeal Cookies

Contributed by claudial:

• 1 c. golden raisins
• 1/2 c. dry white wine
• 2 tbsp. fresh orange juice
• 1 tbsp. dark rum
• 2 tbsp. sugar

1. Combine raisins, wine, OJ, rum, and sugar in small heavy saucepan. Bring just to boil over med. heat, stirring all the while. Lower the heat so liquid is at a bare simmer and poach for 20 minutes.
2. Remove from heat, cover pan with plastic wrap, and allow to cool to room temp. You can cover and store in fridge for up to 2 weeks. I found these made the difference in the cookies. There was a bit of liquid still in the pot after I chilled, so I dumped it into the dough without any problems (probably a tbsp. or so). You could also sub dried cherries or apricots if you like. For the cherries, use red wine or port instead of white. Enjoy!