tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16506143243664596532024-02-08T01:15:42.221+00:00Our Cookie JournalWe all have recipes for special foods that evoke memories of bygone kitchens and baking sessions with beloved family members. I kept track of our Christmas sessions for the past 20 years and I'm sharing it here. I also sprinkle in other cookie-related content and my current cookie obsession along the way.
<a href="https://plus.google.com/101999532590680949479" rel="publisher">Google+</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.comBlogger175125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-26060008267003495222013-12-20T10:48:00.006+00:002013-12-20T10:49:38.863+00:00Chocolate Reindeer Delight Children<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDCStopv4eMdEa5w_uGatfrDrMZ2vI6h4Z5nuvdcqCvPTvo9GhAffk7uqGRO7QEk5uLW1x-jdJ7DTG4J7XN8Pu2yNr3lHQaTlKiYeav_UbE6EA_m_0UuVukZ1o4yj77sDzHP8yW5uEduU/s1600/IMG_0476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDCStopv4eMdEa5w_uGatfrDrMZ2vI6h4Z5nuvdcqCvPTvo9GhAffk7uqGRO7QEk5uLW1x-jdJ7DTG4J7XN8Pu2yNr3lHQaTlKiYeav_UbE6EA_m_0UuVukZ1o4yj77sDzHP8yW5uEduU/s320/IMG_0476.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">Have I mentioned that Charlie, my one and only child, is not a fan of Sugar Cookies? Crazy, isn't it? They're the cutest cookies on the tray and he doesn't want any part of them (more for me!). That's why I decided to make Chocolate Cutout Cookies for him this year. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix_Gw_lILycmuq36BnfuK8fdQot5ArtKnKDjP_zP1k_Fr__yQAJEpqYXxJKRPWcD67pOi-c1H92ChfqcmKaTDl3oJdlywD0Onu12PX5kDIp6h1Kbun2Pb2O1zXqMbrFnPY7GeW4J6s8bA/s1600/IMG_0446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix_Gw_lILycmuq36BnfuK8fdQot5ArtKnKDjP_zP1k_Fr__yQAJEpqYXxJKRPWcD67pOi-c1H92ChfqcmKaTDl3oJdlywD0Onu12PX5kDIp6h1Kbun2Pb2O1zXqMbrFnPY7GeW4J6s8bA/s320/IMG_0446.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></span><span style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">I started with a <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/354113/chocolate-cookie-cutouts" target="_blank">Martha Stewart recipe</a> but I didn't have much luck with the dough. I made it on the same night that I made the dough for the Lime Meltaways and the Lemon Crinkle Cookies and it was extremely crumbly, more like what I'd get with a shortbread rather than a sugar cookie dough. I had to toss it out — I couldn't roll it or gather it or do anything cookie-related.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEt2cIMKRY77PHRl9fKgrT128iiMp2BKvz4Zgpqg9blzOg45kHBKY4OsoZ5uAiI940pJPqjht4wk8GRBK5vgo5Qjmjz8veFE00PMcHeEJkSoEIq74e2_KhZ4s2Lk7ILCH6SCBkZuqmRQU/s1600/IMG_0452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEt2cIMKRY77PHRl9fKgrT128iiMp2BKvz4Zgpqg9blzOg45kHBKY4OsoZ5uAiI940pJPqjht4wk8GRBK5vgo5Qjmjz8veFE00PMcHeEJkSoEIq74e2_KhZ4s2Lk7ILCH6SCBkZuqmRQU/s320/IMG_0452.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
There might have been a problem measuring the unsweetened chocolate, I admit. It's not sold in Baker's squares here. In fact, I was hard-pressed to find unsweetened chocolate at all in my local shops. I usually get it from Mom or Skyco but I found <a href="http://williescacao.com/fine-chocolate/home/" target="_blank">Willie's Cacao</a> in Waitrose last year and it's very good artisan cooking chocolate (but a bear to measure because it comes in two 90-gram disks).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvj3aaj7TZdAKOkPjm7vJfbZMyHODxeUqMylnn1y5eRxM2e_Wpj7-nzGtMEhdNp8Koxx25Lfd3W-jVnvpuU0W17QZoiqNM-05oKvVh_Z3dQz0uQ913RL3DgGYk6NW1Ed4vUKfUZgpSEY/s1600/IMG_0453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvj3aaj7TZdAKOkPjm7vJfbZMyHODxeUqMylnn1y5eRxM2e_Wpj7-nzGtMEhdNp8Koxx25Lfd3W-jVnvpuU0W17QZoiqNM-05oKvVh_Z3dQz0uQ913RL3DgGYk6NW1Ed4vUKfUZgpSEY/s320/IMG_0453.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I found a versatile recipe for <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/chocolate-cutout-cookies-recipe" target="_blank">Chocolate Cutout Cookies</a> at King Arthur Flour's website that was infinitely better all around. First of all, King Arthur's site is so user-friendly. Recipes can be adapted to grams, volume or ounces (making it easier if you're using 90-gram disks of chocolate and 250-gram blocks of butter). This recipe was originally published to make haunted houses for Halloween and calls for "black cocoa" but works equally well with all Dutch-processed cocoa (which suited me). It's made in one bowl and you don't need a stand mixer — I made my dough in a large measuring jug.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimySnpTeYsPLwvGjPsOFn-eDConb2Ol4horK902NjtnjYH9lTUGyzsYFt53S35EuU0Hl9m3YdTDgPijvBH2ybGK7Gc-eCxI0E7WT5h4ljmcHaeioR36qMWaHYzgJ-1g3gxsVQB7uIetM0/s1600/IMG_0470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimySnpTeYsPLwvGjPsOFn-eDConb2Ol4horK902NjtnjYH9lTUGyzsYFt53S35EuU0Hl9m3YdTDgPijvBH2ybGK7Gc-eCxI0E7WT5h4ljmcHaeioR36qMWaHYzgJ-1g3gxsVQB7uIetM0/s320/IMG_0470.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I used only one cutter: a reindeer. The decorations were simple too. I either used a red dragée for a Rudolph-type nose, or three white dragées to dapple the deers' backs. Some had both because Charlie liked them that way. He even helped! They turned out really cute and their simple chocolate flavor pleased my boy — a win-win result.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9yBM3GBmQ2ILh_UXE8hFkDdKLmVCtK3txNg4qaXi85gQbCEwlGondcbKBH_LN87tVUOHcB-J9sA3QJ9xGxgzpG5xG_i-varFcc-7NZxMBj6LnzpgFPENC0WV2YEcaSHl7m-zOW9mZ0k/s1600/IMG_0472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9yBM3GBmQ2ILh_UXE8hFkDdKLmVCtK3txNg4qaXi85gQbCEwlGondcbKBH_LN87tVUOHcB-J9sA3QJ9xGxgzpG5xG_i-varFcc-7NZxMBj6LnzpgFPENC0WV2YEcaSHl7m-zOW9mZ0k/s320/IMG_0472.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
So, if you're looking for a tasty alternative to Sugar Cookie Cutouts, try these yummy and easy Chocolate Cutout Cookies, Cookie No. 7 of 20 cookies to celebrate 20 years of Our Cookie Journal.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffL15uirTr8N3EJaDXPmONWLqEOmG0TBcHCRT7EaDkZppfSX1Rfi-1RHN5i26xAFaxEzqsKu9r-7iWquXKVmOdGn8vAAc62azELF0mi_EZrpK9BrjMpeOjFIReU8n6-7s2oLi3Bpjv0o/s1600/IMG_0478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgffL15uirTr8N3EJaDXPmONWLqEOmG0TBcHCRT7EaDkZppfSX1Rfi-1RHN5i26xAFaxEzqsKu9r-7iWquXKVmOdGn8vAAc62azELF0mi_EZrpK9BrjMpeOjFIReU8n6-7s2oLi3Bpjv0o/s320/IMG_0478.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-11613396873385057412013-12-14T03:22:00.003+00:002013-12-14T03:22:47.023+00:00Merry Citrus!I'm an admitted chocoholic when it comes to cookies (well, why stop there?) but I am a sucker for a pucker too!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeGW0Yqv00pjNPiavfaxRz2pniJ5an6ha1tENIrjvay6OJDI_QuV4TkkkS50xYti0bOYuo75GFZlvYlFOOCfHTDrVVPrkSSAtxT3ZoIrSoX8bV7C3vXQuSbWb8kyRVOWC7BgW36J-k1Co/s1600/IMG_5460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeGW0Yqv00pjNPiavfaxRz2pniJ5an6ha1tENIrjvay6OJDI_QuV4TkkkS50xYti0bOYuo75GFZlvYlFOOCfHTDrVVPrkSSAtxT3ZoIrSoX8bV7C3vXQuSbWb8kyRVOWC7BgW36J-k1Co/s320/IMG_5460.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lime-Glazed Cookies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For the past few years, I've been obsessed with <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/316508/lime-glazed-cookies" target="_blank">Lime-Glazed Cookies</a>. It's another Martha Stewart recipe that I find dependable and delicious. I love how the cookies <i>and</i> the icing boast green flecks of zest. It's another slice and bake cookie too — perfect at this busy time of year — but they're shaped rectangularly, so that adds a nice twist too.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaesTEx8q4ZPOvJLgoS6quNRrHy8oZDu1Zw1kDtRukZd8kCtiok7Y8U4ohj8A2wuoBjOWOB7IvVTf2G9Jy3bsGdo4U1wBNaZiJ43o7q5H7AAO-uJBJ4SIto6c6G5WHWRQwsMR1Rx6eAG4/s1600/IMG_0459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaesTEx8q4ZPOvJLgoS6quNRrHy8oZDu1Zw1kDtRukZd8kCtiok7Y8U4ohj8A2wuoBjOWOB7IvVTf2G9Jy3bsGdo4U1wBNaZiJ43o7q5H7AAO-uJBJ4SIto6c6G5WHWRQwsMR1Rx6eAG4/s320/IMG_0459.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lime Meltaways</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Because I'm celebrating 20 years of Our Cookie Journal this year with 20 types of cookies, I decided to make another lime favorite, <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/316576/lime-meltaways-from-the-martha-stewart-s?search_key=lime%20meltaways" target="_blank">Lime Meltaways</a> </b>— again from Martha! — that always reminds me of my eldest niece, Michelle, back home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2i9kwjcuShUJG-BgKTD_iXxIjK61AxP6E4GKwBmxSB6TspnKyLAbuQ9mtv58oenuhbng12u5rAj_BLdBo_-wtbcSIPwfA_i06AmtrRG8pshAHO90q04B-5rLAQ3qy3X0psXmm-1S_1k/s1600/IMG_0449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2i9kwjcuShUJG-BgKTD_iXxIjK61AxP6E4GKwBmxSB6TspnKyLAbuQ9mtv58oenuhbng12u5rAj_BLdBo_-wtbcSIPwfA_i06AmtrRG8pshAHO90q04B-5rLAQ3qy3X0psXmm-1S_1k/s320/IMG_0449.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I can remember squeezing more lime juice than the recipe calls for and making her a limeade with the leftovers before we started making the cookies. She always favored them (I've even mailed them to her from abroad), so I made them in her honor and thought fondly of her and the lovely times we shared when she was a girl. (The next day, I called her and we had a nice long-distance chat!)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD05HBm3o63G9KcVrSFilOwo3xYdQ5PwjmWrvMyPECEPFoMBaAfzNgFtyAryI0Z6VeMA8qZu0hScIoxYo0Bof8b3bTW0jGQ84jad34jqEIG1miVQtUHcx-C8d38oKX5wqQkVy8hJP1wiw/s1600/IMG_0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD05HBm3o63G9KcVrSFilOwo3xYdQ5PwjmWrvMyPECEPFoMBaAfzNgFtyAryI0Z6VeMA8qZu0hScIoxYo0Bof8b3bTW0jGQ84jad34jqEIG1miVQtUHcx-C8d38oKX5wqQkVy8hJP1wiw/s320/IMG_0450.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Logs o' Lime</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Fortunately, Lime Meltaways are another easy slice and bake cookie too. I made the dough the day before and rolled it into logs, which I wrapped in parchment and paper towel tubes and stashed in the fridge overnight.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnOZbqFFBKHdzXge0MsS0mklFn8lcHEAZZbNRi1sDojF5IUblcRHT5GatZ1eDk-GPNsdrEsQ0-EtHIqe5GwhlJyln8yOOw9I4RIvYhNiuj2zB-wOBuSlf06TTbe_TxrS0t_JAzvJvuu4/s1600/IMG_0454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnOZbqFFBKHdzXge0MsS0mklFn8lcHEAZZbNRi1sDojF5IUblcRHT5GatZ1eDk-GPNsdrEsQ0-EtHIqe5GwhlJyln8yOOw9I4RIvYhNiuj2zB-wOBuSlf06TTbe_TxrS0t_JAzvJvuu4/s320/IMG_0454.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at all that zest!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The delicate, zest-studded coins produced are cooled on wire racks, then — while still warm — coated in confectioner's sugar. They're so light and airy (there's cornstarch in the dough) that they literally melt in your mouth. Take care shaking them in the powdered sugar though — there can be casualties (which, of course, must be eaten immediately!).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CdkF9MEeZssf89EROAyWHEJ7yLRNL37hsfGutabJfkWRKFBQocRBEprwQhrnoo4nkQBGWRZ4qAPHDlkDUXaYUHEafJQ0Yz-dw0V3gOIt1rx7YLwPfcASzH3_seUedLvHTEnK7996C5g/s1600/IMG_0461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8CdkF9MEeZssf89EROAyWHEJ7yLRNL37hsfGutabJfkWRKFBQocRBEprwQhrnoo4nkQBGWRZ4qAPHDlkDUXaYUHEafJQ0Yz-dw0V3gOIt1rx7YLwPfcASzH3_seUedLvHTEnK7996C5g/s320/IMG_0461.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lime Meltaways</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I always tend to make one lime-flavored cookie for the Christmas cookie tray but one year tried <b><a href="http://www.landolakes.com/recipe/92/citrus-slice-n-bake-cookies" target="_blank">Citrus Slice 'n Bake Cookies</a> </b>from a recipe that Mom shared with me from Land O' Lakes. They're easy to make and the logs are rolled into colored sugars. They look very pretty and taste yummy.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVSyJL_08lfxU6ehtocmykQwYEihF40QUN0y5FGxkmAUecmbn1JqeffTG557k0rtuR9omdOzuXVE8gE6NuoF0Tir5orciXsMzkfluOI3NvocMf3m0aXmhKUjtf77yUX14mCGyzJ1V-14/s1600/P1010015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVSyJL_08lfxU6ehtocmykQwYEihF40QUN0y5FGxkmAUecmbn1JqeffTG557k0rtuR9omdOzuXVE8gE6NuoF0Tir5orciXsMzkfluOI3NvocMf3m0aXmhKUjtf77yUX14mCGyzJ1V-14/s320/P1010015.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Citrus Slice 'n Bake Cookies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
But I saw an interesting recipe for <a href="http://www.laurenslatest.com/lemon-crinkle-cookies/" target="_blank"><b>Lemon Crinkle Cookies</b></a> at Lauren's Latest blog that looked very appealing. Again, confectioner's sugar is used but these are coated <i>before</i> baking.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjwZzQ9rnb-Ag5o-Gyg4OWaunH5os9UXnamWsZhb8QlGIy0FEX66MAbCI38AbFRTV6fsRoDRO9t-g3-V-MbHJZbS2t80AFv3V2JFMTF5wRLYKQiIRYigNKitJMT5Ao7iSZgM61EJVesw/s1600/IMG_0463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrjwZzQ9rnb-Ag5o-Gyg4OWaunH5os9UXnamWsZhb8QlGIy0FEX66MAbCI38AbFRTV6fsRoDRO9t-g3-V-MbHJZbS2t80AFv3V2JFMTF5wRLYKQiIRYigNKitJMT5Ao7iSZgM61EJVesw/s320/IMG_0463.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roll Lemon Crinkles in powdered sugar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Crinkles can be baked right away, as the dough is rolled into balls, like Peanut Butter Cookies. I was mixing doughs together after dinner, though, so I wanted only to clean up, stow the doughs, and get to bed. The next day, I was raring to go and cranked out four dozen Lime Meltaways and four and a half dozen Lemon Crinkles. The kitchen was fragrant and fresh and I couldn't wait to sample both types!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIyOKwA3n1lB6EzKYzdOIFZ5jVKCCwopZZ1aoQ2ck4vvgRT9ww1GwZUHk_DJYteOa1_VV3V7UwreFYAQz13MqGI9tVbtgN9_TyYpygmuwNRDCZ8YAnEa4_9LKxh1GhWH3gUJuTMqbt3o/s1600/IMG_0457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIyOKwA3n1lB6EzKYzdOIFZ5jVKCCwopZZ1aoQ2ck4vvgRT9ww1GwZUHk_DJYteOa1_VV3V7UwreFYAQz13MqGI9tVbtgN9_TyYpygmuwNRDCZ8YAnEa4_9LKxh1GhWH3gUJuTMqbt3o/s320/IMG_0457.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I tend to heap in the zest...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The Lime Meltaways were just as glorious as ever — tangy little clouds of lime that went down a treat with a cup of tea. And the Lemon Crinkles surpassed my expectations. The sugar created a crisp exterior and the centers were lovely and chewy. The heaping tablespoon of lemon zest made them zingy and satisfying. It was impossible to have only one — but I froze the rest!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8cUV2HyObEvxZRs4Ul-I9ta6Obvdryk5d24dB05DDzrG6qSQ_RLbLpsVxgPZ01-F6kmnhIucy2EUW_nGRrCqH0XAfIgje0ncJ8xct-qNgbZJLnUTzZfd79Eyjcc1H2o2Ow_iXkcTkJU/s1600/IMG_0467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8cUV2HyObEvxZRs4Ul-I9ta6Obvdryk5d24dB05DDzrG6qSQ_RLbLpsVxgPZ01-F6kmnhIucy2EUW_nGRrCqH0XAfIgje0ncJ8xct-qNgbZJLnUTzZfd79Eyjcc1H2o2Ow_iXkcTkJU/s320/IMG_0467.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the freezer they go...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Either of these cookies would make a perfect addition to your cookie tray — or repertoire, if you can't <i>squeeze</i> them into your busy schedule at Christmastime (even thought they are a snap to make). So I have a classic and a contemporary making the cut, with Lime Meltaways as Cookie No. 5 and Lemon Crinkles as Cookie No. 6 on my list of 20 Christmas cookies to celebrate 20 years of Our Cookie Journal.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1ZwyPgQZxpB2mdjiXpNt2gdnUSqE1v_foslGwuckAO2YnyxN96zC7FCLbqttDNBX8MAEjVI2o-RLW0_DMfAofTefNT4m_7FXig0R6UCXl9bB2JyDkwdeGRZdq7FBVnS8-mrbDN1hlvA/s1600/IMG_0465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi1ZwyPgQZxpB2mdjiXpNt2gdnUSqE1v_foslGwuckAO2YnyxN96zC7FCLbqttDNBX8MAEjVI2o-RLW0_DMfAofTefNT4m_7FXig0R6UCXl9bB2JyDkwdeGRZdq7FBVnS8-mrbDN1hlvA/s320/IMG_0465.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon Crinkle Cookies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-40206627613643113142013-12-12T12:51:00.000+00:002013-12-12T12:51:56.677+00:00Sugar Cookies Are a Joy to Make<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PNWHAtQrSiquaOZeIomZM13QzGulNSUbnsZhBmOD9q7s257lMshDe7JMYzOSQcLg5HMINsBBgr9LE8wCHohfQUvtxgjTANVQYwUZXTDoPNBetb6jcDShEw_2B1Mp8jHLxC9F4qs0KVk/s1600/IMG_0446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PNWHAtQrSiquaOZeIomZM13QzGulNSUbnsZhBmOD9q7s257lMshDe7JMYzOSQcLg5HMINsBBgr9LE8wCHohfQUvtxgjTANVQYwUZXTDoPNBetb6jcDShEw_2B1Mp8jHLxC9F4qs0KVk/s320/IMG_0446.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Last weekend I made <b>Sugar Cookie Cutouts</b>, which brings me only to Cookie No. 4 of 20! These cookies are kicking my butt this year. Especially since I decided to make 20 different kinds to mark 20 years of <i>Our Cookie Journal</i>. <div>
<br /><div>
Sugar Cookie Cutouts are always a huge process anyway because they normally take two to three days to finish completely, especially if you're trying to be organized. First I had to select my cutters from a huge collection. I decided to take it easy on myself this year and chose only four (JOY, holly, tree and snowflake) and three colors (red, white and green). I used Martha Stewart's recipes for <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/335378/basic-sugar-cookie-dough?search_key=sugar%20cookies" target="_blank">Sugar Cookies</a> and <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/348234/royal-icing?search_key=Royal%20Icing%20Recipes" target="_blank">Royal Icing</a> because they're foolproof and very familiar. I usually do a few more shapes and also make blue and yellow icing but I'm trying to rein it in a bit. HA!</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgk8SOksn7nDbvc9OlTs4ISOUPYxwW3YMwYdwckCLcLxhlQun9wdvfm5opgO3KJnC9QsW63sLYhyKieWX3pbbRVy2bDX-o_sZjXIbMIYYZodqvtk5N2o_Auz_Ca4k2iDCWvV2kFfgxc0/s1600/IMG_0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzgk8SOksn7nDbvc9OlTs4ISOUPYxwW3YMwYdwckCLcLxhlQun9wdvfm5opgO3KJnC9QsW63sLYhyKieWX3pbbRVy2bDX-o_sZjXIbMIYYZodqvtk5N2o_Auz_Ca4k2iDCWvV2kFfgxc0/s320/IMG_0410.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I made the dough the day before, so it was nice and chilled, as it should be, when I rolled it out. I try to cut the cookies as close together as possible because this dough can get tough if you re-use it too many times. I always squeeze the scraps together, flatten out the dough, cover it in plastic wrap, and stick it back in the fridge before using it again too. Once the cookies are cut out, I transfer them to parchment paper-lined baking trays, then put them in the fridge to set. This helps the cookies retain their shape, with nice sharp edges (making them easier to decorate later). If you don't use your fridge and these steps for your sugar cookies, they're going to melt as you go and they'll look a bit wonky.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9OE8116FOpSz5XoSTUA5hAMKQIvtfqxe7JIFAr0ABOkzKMn5RHhZtksdfuPJQNEU7J3BJ7p73w9fXoepwOF9bwavoel2_hhxq62Sk5EqqrPrqBQf45lsMbrylzZT7D_AwPsROLaDf8Y/s1600/IMG_0411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9OE8116FOpSz5XoSTUA5hAMKQIvtfqxe7JIFAr0ABOkzKMn5RHhZtksdfuPJQNEU7J3BJ7p73w9fXoepwOF9bwavoel2_hhxq62Sk5EqqrPrqBQf45lsMbrylzZT7D_AwPsROLaDf8Y/s320/IMG_0411.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's best to keep the same shapes on the same trays, too — that way the smaller ones won't get over-baked. And don't worry if some of them become too golden brown on the edges — icing is going to cover a myriad of mistakes! Remove the cookies from the oven as soon as they <i>start</i> to brown on the edges and are set— even before they seem ready — because they continue to bake on the sheets. Then put them cool on wire racks to cool completely. I put the cooled cookies into covered cake pans until they're ready to ice (later that day or the next day). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0qkdtjQQg_ktBx-cd-UHPkmOcUcadJ1oftCQ9y_AqcGyO6I6X3VOd6chQ1ATg4ODextXwpe-4BsA0vJaWS3GfQFocTEaLyF4lBoxQWWGFJ_q8bXgyu2L_r9uuSpQ3hXbZqh11k5cK_E/s1600/IMG_0412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU0qkdtjQQg_ktBx-cd-UHPkmOcUcadJ1oftCQ9y_AqcGyO6I6X3VOd6chQ1ATg4ODextXwpe-4BsA0vJaWS3GfQFocTEaLyF4lBoxQWWGFJ_q8bXgyu2L_r9uuSpQ3hXbZqh11k5cK_E/s320/IMG_0412.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Meringue powder might be expensive but it's worth it. I haven't used egg whites in Royal Icing for over a decade. It's just too easy to use and safe for anyone with whom you share your cookies (raw egg whites can be dangerous for some folks!). I separate the icing into bowls (matching the amount of colors to be used) and add gel paste food coloring (this is important: liquid is <b>out</b>, OK? It changes the consistency of the icing if you add too much and the colors aren't as vibrant). Use skewers or toothpicks to remove the gel paste; then use spoons to mix to the desired color.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLA6dEH-g1gnb_cvD6zzjWoyI6xxZ1CoERM9UoFQh7iuKKIQ05u3KLg6dXV-vWhjKzOupRYkvimRTKsU4SJLNHAbgsvXqTXg4E20955MUP8KLDrSDuwk_0d6qsR_geg6jUxk_9q8nzy8E/s1600/IMG_0414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLA6dEH-g1gnb_cvD6zzjWoyI6xxZ1CoERM9UoFQh7iuKKIQ05u3KLg6dXV-vWhjKzOupRYkvimRTKsU4SJLNHAbgsvXqTXg4E20955MUP8KLDrSDuwk_0d6qsR_geg6jUxk_9q8nzy8E/s320/IMG_0414.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Keep the icing covered when you aren't using it or it will dry and harden. That's a good reason to keep a wet cloth handy to wipe up any spills too. Before I mix my icing, I get out all the things I might need, including piping bags and tips; clips or rubber bands to securely close the piping bags; a toothpick or two for tweaking mistakes; a few small plates, to keep sprinkles at bay when decorating cookies; a tall glass with a wet paper towel in the bottom of it to hold the icing bag when it's not in use (the paper towel keeps the tip from drying up); and trays to corral the decorated cookies that need to dry.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJJcf5GnbPH9BHRuGRCTVPriT7NF4HY9fQGLww1YTw_l5d3qjNPkh51K3zqqLIBXWEW1IclS8PQKHSIrBSKuq6Wl-w846QhO4ODAki-Vpje3xE75YQ5jnKucculD5pButYO_vbRoje-4/s1600/IMG_0417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJJcf5GnbPH9BHRuGRCTVPriT7NF4HY9fQGLww1YTw_l5d3qjNPkh51K3zqqLIBXWEW1IclS8PQKHSIrBSKuq6Wl-w846QhO4ODAki-Vpje3xE75YQ5jnKucculD5pButYO_vbRoje-4/s320/IMG_0417.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I also get out a tray and sort out the decorations that I'm likely to use (sometimes I don't know what will work or appeal to me until I try it). There are so many choices now: dragées, nonpareils, colored sugars, sanding sugars, edible glitter, edible spray, colored pens, etc.). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpainSzWLHQpc071TX315AdBuFxoAYvjB5jQTiX4PK734aKtyC0dRfnVmz8zuvsN6s3lGWEe9nStGTpoFo0NWPICVNQY0LsJ8mAUT6X12_yAsqkVP9RU7wPzxNnoec_2ZlDd0aa2jcUNI/s1600/IMG_0416.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpainSzWLHQpc071TX315AdBuFxoAYvjB5jQTiX4PK734aKtyC0dRfnVmz8zuvsN6s3lGWEe9nStGTpoFo0NWPICVNQY0LsJ8mAUT6X12_yAsqkVP9RU7wPzxNnoec_2ZlDd0aa2jcUNI/s320/IMG_0416.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Always outline Sugar Cookies first with icing as it is. This gives the icing a border and it won't run all over the place. After you've outlined the cookies, thin out the icing so that when you drizzle it onto itself (in the bowl) the ribbon of icing sinks in almost immediately. This consistency will be perfect for flooding the outlined cookies. Do three or four at a time, then add decorations while the icing is still wet. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj738ezV5X6PMi7teKNEdhqAQuJKs8cPL_ACsiSHAUKfENg4O33e5vD9kecfRJYF_RHmsBtzqDxO7Yhe_fTzFpijXyrKqltzTVkDXqatGo65So89JDtAwpnjHU9F2s4Gm3iq2VKbxG7W1Y/s1600/IMG_0420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj738ezV5X6PMi7teKNEdhqAQuJKs8cPL_ACsiSHAUKfENg4O33e5vD9kecfRJYF_RHmsBtzqDxO7Yhe_fTzFpijXyrKqltzTVkDXqatGo65So89JDtAwpnjHU9F2s4Gm3iq2VKbxG7W1Y/s320/IMG_0420.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In the vein of giving myself a break, I decided to do my snowflakes differently. I simply decorated with lines of outline-consistency icing, then topped in a variety of ways. (As you can see, some of mine over-baked; those will be eaten by me and NO I did not do it on purpose so I could have more to myself.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0gaLGuctig5UwdZHlEqw49qfCDfQ1_6c7cmv2uLRJ5AVfa4XtUBy0f5YzZrZd_BCtfDRTJrJ6s5OePm0LMMjcPBP-0QTTtymMpzCelL5iAaf6epSdUu8WMiI64Z4cgiTZD3bUXmhLRqM/s1600/IMG_0423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0gaLGuctig5UwdZHlEqw49qfCDfQ1_6c7cmv2uLRJ5AVfa4XtUBy0f5YzZrZd_BCtfDRTJrJ6s5OePm0LMMjcPBP-0QTTtymMpzCelL5iAaf6epSdUu8WMiI64Z4cgiTZD3bUXmhLRqM/s320/IMG_0423.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxmLGXcfbvRT0vnAWInh4Yfl8aq-LtzO9P07BYH3sqYBfwoR7u_5ltacuDJvYEBlQMpeE_nS-kWc7aBLbWW3Zfg27CKZIO2OTH1gXAgJGblEDYEIQX245CjeNqz7bbfWlLNbckfIWPWI/s1600/IMG_0424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxmLGXcfbvRT0vnAWInh4Yfl8aq-LtzO9P07BYH3sqYBfwoR7u_5ltacuDJvYEBlQMpeE_nS-kWc7aBLbWW3Zfg27CKZIO2OTH1gXAgJGblEDYEIQX245CjeNqz7bbfWlLNbckfIWPWI/s320/IMG_0424.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I was equally carefree about my candy canes this year. I reckoned that as long as they were red and white, they were suitable and I created my "interpretation" of candy canes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7FJLr6Fj5mBVjP48XIGSHGR-OhqFfNET4JCb07u_E9Cvf2Rw0jQW3qKljycCAcH4eu18lQbJUT_YRAkMv_0Xf1CBLzlWemTv7LX2N3hiFO-rB0FmHGqA5x3iIdUsshpaFPNOYD_c71bY/s1600/IMG_0428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7FJLr6Fj5mBVjP48XIGSHGR-OhqFfNET4JCb07u_E9Cvf2Rw0jQW3qKljycCAcH4eu18lQbJUT_YRAkMv_0Xf1CBLzlWemTv7LX2N3hiFO-rB0FmHGqA5x3iIdUsshpaFPNOYD_c71bY/s320/IMG_0428.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I put the most effort into my JOY cookies because it's one of my favorite cutters. These take planning because you have to outline, fill and decorate x 3 (one for each letter in JOY). They are so cute though that it was worth it. If I weren't making 20 different cookies this year, I would have spent more time on all of these to be sure (like <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/2012-icing-on-cookie.html" target="_blank">last year's Sugar Cookies</a>). </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5hq7ZTM06hoWe5u_TuA2iMoELnZaOrdsuARFDnJDCw2zzj6qPL-7Mziku3UIWyoqZ2ze1lVFl3A93-m3ByI6GOyI0bfQf-2EEI0b76bXaCIEeJ6OEDnfZ0ODJOzZ4Whyhj0ZZLFAcnY/s1600/IMG_0445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5hq7ZTM06hoWe5u_TuA2iMoELnZaOrdsuARFDnJDCw2zzj6qPL-7Mziku3UIWyoqZ2ze1lVFl3A93-m3ByI6GOyI0bfQf-2EEI0b76bXaCIEeJ6OEDnfZ0ODJOzZ4Whyhj0ZZLFAcnY/s320/IMG_0445.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I wound up with 9 1/2 dozen Sugar Cookie Cutouts. I let them dry completely (usually overnight because I don't normally finish till the wee hours) before stacking them between layers of parchment paper in a tin or similar container. Then they go into the freezer with the rest of the cookies until it's time to tray or box them up for giving/sharing/eating. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Remember, Sugar Cookies are so very versatile. There are people out there who can make cookies that look too good to eat. Yours can be works of art, too, if you enjoy this kind of activity. But they can be fun to make with children if you aren't so picky about the results. Just cover the table and let them go nuts! Icing isn't mandatory either; sugar cookies can be sprinkled with decorations before they bake and go straight into the cookie jar or lunchbox.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-60499102934382034182013-12-06T02:58:00.001+00:002013-12-11T08:43:28.577+00:00Happy St. Nicholas Day! <span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">As is tradition in many European countries, </span><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.stnicholascenter.org/pages/home/" target="_blank">St. Nicholas</a> leaves coins and treats for children on Dec. 6. He is the legendary forerunner of our modern-day Santa Claus. He was the Bishop of Myra (now part of Turkey) and had a reputation for secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him. He is the patron saint of children (but also students, sailors, archers, pawnbrokers and thieves!).</span><br />
<br />
Last year on this date, I made <strong style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><em><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/happy-st-nicholas-day.html" target="_blank">Speculaas Koekjes</a></em> (Dutch Spice Cookies) </strong><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">but I had to make a slice-and-bake version because I didn't have a cookie mold in the shape of <i>Sinterklaas. </i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzBt5qZCB6V-iFBIdirRiuHYFk5VsH-TxlhKV3j-5mv-RQTP2o6vOaGT4jwzbsJGsQVUdeppnkh1IFRmgDL_kQlXi9ia7JYvYFacVQbRbqsULQ3pvijgfB9tUS1ZpyOJsyGfMWtxToXB0/s1600/IMG_0408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzBt5qZCB6V-iFBIdirRiuHYFk5VsH-TxlhKV3j-5mv-RQTP2o6vOaGT4jwzbsJGsQVUdeppnkh1IFRmgDL_kQlXi9ia7JYvYFacVQbRbqsULQ3pvijgfB9tUS1ZpyOJsyGfMWtxToXB0/s320/IMG_0408.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">I still don't. I really thought I'd find one in my shoe this morning, or even in my stocking for Christmas last year but the only shoes that were filled last night were Charlie's! </span><span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Even though my family has never celebrated St. Nicholas Day, my love for cookies led me to this holiday and its traditions (and my son was more than happy to join). </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOpP5wGbxlSGOrCb43RPFfG0pzOjxJrKRbucPBnUakQhPdKCPBp7IgKFEVt6M5yU1HJ4WCHeQyxMEj2q3hnst8H2RrS7te4xpipCwNhRfq6AzjkvMsI8kjzQMeFICdzUNC6Bq35VVWS7k/s1600/stnicholas.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOpP5wGbxlSGOrCb43RPFfG0pzOjxJrKRbucPBnUakQhPdKCPBp7IgKFEVt6M5yU1HJ4WCHeQyxMEj2q3hnst8H2RrS7te4xpipCwNhRfq6AzjkvMsI8kjzQMeFICdzUNC6Bq35VVWS7k/s1600/stnicholas.png" /></a></div>
<br />
I guess I will have to get a mold or stamp myself. They are making a comeback, from the searches I've done. There are many on eBay, vintage and new, made of everything from wood or ceramic to metal or even silicone. I much prefer the look of the old ones; but the new ones might be easier to use. This calls for more research. The mold/stamp above is from <a href="http://www.cookiestamp.com/" target="_blank">Rycraft</a>, a family-owened business that produces terra cotta stamps in a variety of designs. Again, I'm going with traditional — St. Nicholas all the way!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdcDTsUUkoUemVoLaGQnOt4iW_ZlUtAwyFBubSrHw0rO59HXW0l6O1aeBKkvYBsYVTkvUWVpZspGJk19ku4QN1gM5lhWgvkmMRJNxHJzopXiXFKV3wzZ4TDP1yY7W2yJUumpS10y_l1U/s1600/IMG_0399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTdcDTsUUkoUemVoLaGQnOt4iW_ZlUtAwyFBubSrHw0rO59HXW0l6O1aeBKkvYBsYVTkvUWVpZspGJk19ku4QN1gM5lhWgvkmMRJNxHJzopXiXFKV3wzZ4TDP1yY7W2yJUumpS10y_l1U/s320/IMG_0399.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Between decorating the tree for another upcoming holiday, and baking 5 dozen <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/celebrate-national-cookie-day.html" target="_blank">Cinnamon Swirl Cookies</a> Tuesday, I didn't have much energy left for cookie baking Wednesday but I managed to get two doughs made and stashed in the fridge. I'm going to make Sugar Cookie Cutouts this weekend (it's a looooong process) and I baked <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/2006-overnight-cookies-sensation.html" target="_blank">Grandma Baker's Overnight Cookies</a> yesterday.<br />
<br />
Overnights are SO easy. It only takes a few minutes to whip up the dough, which is made from simple ingredients everyone is bound to have on hand (brown sugar, eggs, butter, flour, baking soda). They also call for cream of tartar, a funny spice that usually winds up near the back of my spice cabinet because it's not that much in demand. Technically known as potassium hydrogen tartrate, its a white owner that is most commonly used to add stability to egg whites. In this recipe, it keeps the sugar from crystallizing and gives the dough a creamy texture.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXcAOYIdxw9EQ86dyjQ6GQ0JK1Ur8OfvSuo-c0nQxMiYht7YO8tsSvf3xHkdzPMC_cTU6C2dggVaFwqpc4mislKMowD-jbOQMpGtUjjgUsVV3Nuq8BcR4FjFG6Sk-_0QjxVqOM8TuacI/s1600/IMG_0398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXcAOYIdxw9EQ86dyjQ6GQ0JK1Ur8OfvSuo-c0nQxMiYht7YO8tsSvf3xHkdzPMC_cTU6C2dggVaFwqpc4mislKMowD-jbOQMpGtUjjgUsVV3Nuq8BcR4FjFG6Sk-_0QjxVqOM8TuacI/s320/IMG_0398.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I added pecans to half the dough because Charlie really likes these cookies but he doesn't like nuts. I shaped the dough into logs, sealed them in plastic wrap, and put them in my trusty paper towel tubes before placing them in the fridge — overnight. Since I was finished for the evening, Charlie and I had a Christmas video marathon: "Frosty the Snowman," "Frosty Returns" and "It's Christmastime Again, Charlie Brown."<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The next morning was a breeze — just slice, bake, slice, bake — it was all very assembly-line-ish. I topped both varieties with sugar crystals to make them a bit more special for the holidays.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABxdZR39KiWqQCwAHPe47uS0hSKBZDD-W4zYN-ShGGUXr5eeyg8bvWaKWXCGQONMZtBRPYsFS9z3uaUb7L-GzLpzDG2_ujoy_hVQIVfZdnzoBu-iCz1eGOPW1oRALMZVZnG2jhIWGopA/s1600/IMG_0400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABxdZR39KiWqQCwAHPe47uS0hSKBZDD-W4zYN-ShGGUXr5eeyg8bvWaKWXCGQONMZtBRPYsFS9z3uaUb7L-GzLpzDG2_ujoy_hVQIVfZdnzoBu-iCz1eGOPW1oRALMZVZnG2jhIWGopA/s320/IMG_0400.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This year I halved the recipe and still wound up with 3 dozen of each type! That is one family-sized recipe Grandma Baker used. Since I'm shooting for 20 different cookies this year to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Our Cookie Journal, I'm <i>mostly</i> sticking to single batches. Naturally, there will be exceptions (Chocolate Chip Cookies, for sure!).<br />
<br />
So, I hope you will have a Happy St. Nicholas Day and bake some Speculaas, or try my Grandma Baker's Overnight Cookies, which I have named Cookie No. 3 of 20 in the 20-cookie celebration of the cookie diary's anniversary.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPgOPnMLrM3KvbUVVPC-uN9t-FXeSq9IVhg6PRoVzLaNBJCGO0yDGB92YYQZPmZXwmsgtf_s94w74x1bQtgRmIv-2an0fsSRbk-0pObALDeRYDzP_xo4F-wBig99ocWaXExkLbbW_ju0I/s1600/IMG_0404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPgOPnMLrM3KvbUVVPC-uN9t-FXeSq9IVhg6PRoVzLaNBJCGO0yDGB92YYQZPmZXwmsgtf_s94w74x1bQtgRmIv-2an0fsSRbk-0pObALDeRYDzP_xo4F-wBig99ocWaXExkLbbW_ju0I/s320/IMG_0404.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His and hers: Mine have pecans (left) and his don't.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-36314564355216446812013-12-04T10:59:00.001+00:002013-12-04T11:03:11.646+00:00Celebrate National Cookie Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIKlLWNRrHEQTcVX4jKL5a3OhfNzAPn-YrQUpkBR_xLg9r1c2N0tAT1OlKL-ZPGL-60lG68O5e9Pga-Mmvw5upMV0FDxH97zaDV8UjcEozj0hZ2COTbzJJ9mY0inLW98qv4aTzTyl_GDU/s1600/IMG_0393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIKlLWNRrHEQTcVX4jKL5a3OhfNzAPn-YrQUpkBR_xLg9r1c2N0tAT1OlKL-ZPGL-60lG68O5e9Pga-Mmvw5upMV0FDxH97zaDV8UjcEozj0hZ2COTbzJJ9mY0inLW98qv4aTzTyl_GDU/s320/IMG_0393.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
It's National Cookie Day, so I'm celebrating with a batch of Cookie No. 2 of 20 cookies to celebrate 20 years of Our Cookie Journal: <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/256456/cinnamon-swirl-cookies" target="_blank">Cinnamon Swirl Cookies</a>. It's Martha Stewart's recipe but I've made a few tweaks to suit my own taste — naturally! To wit: the recipe calls for walnuts and I used pecans instead; I didn't put orange zest in the dough this year either. Don't get me wrong — they're good her way. In fact, I followed the recipe exactly <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/06/2012-slice-and-bake-and-partake.html" target="_blank">last year</a>. But I was looking for a Snickerdoodle replacement because I'm never happy with the cinnamon-to-cookie ratio and these looked like they would do the job nicely. And they did — but this year without the orange zest.<br />
<br />
I've always found recipes to be quite stingy with fillings and toppings too. They never seem to provide enough. I wish I had noted this last year (maybe I did; I forgot to review) but I will definitely be doubling the filling portion of this recipe next time I bake them. They still turned out nice but I am greedy for that cinnamon-pecan-brown sugar filling!<br />
<br />
Get started early with these (or the night before) because the dough has to go in the fridge (or freezer) a few times.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1PhouY6O6-ZlcNgrGemT6az_rqJOA9Vq04le8UvG-lQBMyE23pNT0PcpCvIaTv6g5itD3VDt3TMc_WTTLe0z0lCZlg1SbG3KnE0ixjgOE2Ei8_XYW9mtADwgRfaQ6IIyPAaWjTXUhcJQ/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1PhouY6O6-ZlcNgrGemT6az_rqJOA9Vq04le8UvG-lQBMyE23pNT0PcpCvIaTv6g5itD3VDt3TMc_WTTLe0z0lCZlg1SbG3KnE0ixjgOE2Ei8_XYW9mtADwgRfaQ6IIyPAaWjTXUhcJQ/s320/IMG_0377.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
The dough for Cinnamon Swirls is sticky, so be sure you have your plastic wrap ready on the countertop. Go ahead and shape it into a rectangle, since that's the ultimate shape you're going for when you roll the dough. First, it needs to go in the fridge for at least an hour.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheG01Fajf9kFCZYtyemJxgv03T6beYGu5rJkzNOuLddQ2lHGXRvLbBsbG4sS3-m4oXc9mmbuNK5AFC6iCRyfKdOyx1SPJuZOXDeAfhHOCRoWTNgW4-6InfovH3uqZQD0fvwJXrFzotlwU/s1600/IMG_0381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheG01Fajf9kFCZYtyemJxgv03T6beYGu5rJkzNOuLddQ2lHGXRvLbBsbG4sS3-m4oXc9mmbuNK5AFC6iCRyfKdOyx1SPJuZOXDeAfhHOCRoWTNgW4-6InfovH3uqZQD0fvwJXrFzotlwU/s320/IMG_0381.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
When you bring it out, place it on a floured piece of parchment or plastic wrap, so it can be transferred to a baking tray and returned to the fridge to firm up again. After you get both rectangles in the fridge, you can concentrate on the filling.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1PvG3WtndIMsb98j6BP26vpPZY0zK07HvqUwcedg43dSOBL7CkrdP5TL_UkKYvwU2kOI9yVkULoaK-BVDgCekZvttUsf8I93Hj0JsUZdYr58lumiwOLPpcQEeFaxSHZ9a5Elz7SMGgU/s1600/IMG_0378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf1PvG3WtndIMsb98j6BP26vpPZY0zK07HvqUwcedg43dSOBL7CkrdP5TL_UkKYvwU2kOI9yVkULoaK-BVDgCekZvttUsf8I93Hj0JsUZdYr58lumiwOLPpcQEeFaxSHZ9a5Elz7SMGgU/s320/IMG_0378.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Not only do I prefer pecans to walnuts (in baked goods), I decided to toast them too. I toast them first, then chop them. I make the filling in a large liquid measuring cup, so I can divide it equally between the two rectangles. The filling is spread onto each chilled rectangle, then rolled from the long side, to create a spiral. I found it infinitely easier to use plastic wrap than parchment paper (which Martha advises); it made rolling the dough a snap.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKT33Kjf6wCp5F9DcQEhtgUntoEUwwJhFGuSNxUmU-WMxLXxt_cjqN6ehPVLRdawopBabWzwhcasYlszDZ_oY3OaIaqYGxmtkQ9tU8sFkctzVqSljsuCmb2XHmgGcB_19WdXv3p3ZdGl4/s1600/IMG_0382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKT33Kjf6wCp5F9DcQEhtgUntoEUwwJhFGuSNxUmU-WMxLXxt_cjqN6ehPVLRdawopBabWzwhcasYlszDZ_oY3OaIaqYGxmtkQ9tU8sFkctzVqSljsuCmb2XHmgGcB_19WdXv3p3ZdGl4/s320/IMG_0382.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I always keep paper towel tubes on hand with my cookie supplies. I cut a slit lengthwise, then place the cookie dough log inside and stash in the fridge or freezer. The tube helps the roll hold its shape (so you don't wind up with one flat side). You must work quickly, though, slicing the cookies into 1/4-inch-thick coins, and returning the logs to the fridge whenever you aren't slicing. I also store sliced cookies that have been trayed in the refrigerator as they're queuing to go into the oven.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_siW4rbHPbKdf1X1UpSxUaWulxcHV0O8CE0viVb2aTczJDON8zwdIYEd1bs1dIW9Dm3M-w8KKYE354de80vhl0fuQk0f-E8PmmGMHolTI76Ri5UcUMcVExJwcPMqXHUAjUU0ofDzyXtk/s1600/IMG_0386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_siW4rbHPbKdf1X1UpSxUaWulxcHV0O8CE0viVb2aTczJDON8zwdIYEd1bs1dIW9Dm3M-w8KKYE354de80vhl0fuQk0f-E8PmmGMHolTI76Ri5UcUMcVExJwcPMqXHUAjUU0ofDzyXtk/s320/IMG_0386.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Cinnamon Swirl Cookies make a delicious choice for National Cookie Day but they're even better for Christmas. If you find yourself too busy to bake today, you can always make <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=school+fudge" target="_blank">No Bake Cookies</a>, which we used to call School Fudge, and save the pinwheels for the weekend. They are one of the easiest cookies in the world to make.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaAl3RpSbyPzlJYuWp89VATIadxg7YnenIKt9JTl6TuBYcAoHCH4_H1BN9Ded3SNBaH4tHQsEBH75wce1Hxd3K804opIDI34lHvfL3LAvu2JL-VRYp67z-WZAsqjagoTzKXMWwJ2luaX8/s1600/IMG_6732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaAl3RpSbyPzlJYuWp89VATIadxg7YnenIKt9JTl6TuBYcAoHCH4_H1BN9Ded3SNBaH4tHQsEBH75wce1Hxd3K804opIDI34lHvfL3LAvu2JL-VRYp67z-WZAsqjagoTzKXMWwJ2luaX8/s320/IMG_6732.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Cinnamon Swirls are definitely worth a try though! They're so great because you can make the dough (and filling) ahead of time and either refrigerate or freeze until you have a bit of time to bake. They are delicate, fragrant and delicious every time. I love the chewiness the filling provides between each tender cookie swirl.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsIt13jyfCcr4qE5jMCp8esXyf1PUbuU9incXHP9q6E_L558NgdaO0wboGlKF7I0at6fSPovdKlY5tc7T_GyPZweZxeHO9aWQ_n8dja6Ivr7JaLzm9tiFAuVO99rPpurt39igyaUSggw/s1600/IMG_0390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsIt13jyfCcr4qE5jMCp8esXyf1PUbuU9incXHP9q6E_L558NgdaO0wboGlKF7I0at6fSPovdKlY5tc7T_GyPZweZxeHO9aWQ_n8dja6Ivr7JaLzm9tiFAuVO99rPpurt39igyaUSggw/s320/IMG_0390.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-12404611575006628022013-12-02T15:14:00.001+00:002013-12-02T15:14:47.228+00:00Happy Anniversary, Our Cookie Journal! <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFovs-eub1LSJrdaBbYJy9Vi-FdPgk7hDNKLUxcejrQqppp80n6Fw9O2U7yqTWTv4ZM6axLlcyh9sMEBm1_im2Vk5xIgwvTF-bdZHYqsoAKNIG6Y_w_Un_CK-_2lWKozx1DtI5G9KdAfU/s1600/IMG_0360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFovs-eub1LSJrdaBbYJy9Vi-FdPgk7hDNKLUxcejrQqppp80n6Fw9O2U7yqTWTv4ZM6axLlcyh9sMEBm1_im2Vk5xIgwvTF-bdZHYqsoAKNIG6Y_w_Un_CK-_2lWKozx1DtI5G9KdAfU/s400/IMG_0360.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Cookie No. 1: Hedgehog Cookies</b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As I've said in previous posts, I'm marking 20 years of keeping a journal about baking Christmas cookies this December. My sister gave me the blank diary and I've tried to make entries every year — some were better than others (years, entries and cookies!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GJzN1iZ21RQkjwovVZi_Rpmzlf_YqKzDG5iuJyeod0EMOmG5OFQ20lvmY3Dud3-KxPNAJhbZVcKaOLnK7CCXg0ukwe7ZFu_602G75u8Ppgn0jhaFryISJrl-IZGWIJJVDTXsiS9PNYg/s1600/IMG_5268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GJzN1iZ21RQkjwovVZi_Rpmzlf_YqKzDG5iuJyeod0EMOmG5OFQ20lvmY3Dud3-KxPNAJhbZVcKaOLnK7CCXg0ukwe7ZFu_602G75u8Ppgn0jhaFryISJrl-IZGWIJJVDTXsiS9PNYg/s320/IMG_5268.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
To celebrate, I decided I would make 20 different types of cookies this Christmas. I will make a few standards that we cannot live without, add a few winners from last year, and I hope to discover a few yummy new treats to add to my recipe repertoire. I'm re-reading the journal (as I do every year), collecting ingredients and new recipes, and getting ready for Christmas cookie baking!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WYR8qDLCfgtC3nQUrF8-NKH6hd4fgSfUNqu9A7R0COYPFD2N9a0Kng2dD2FJl56Zm7h8m6i5dfBYhG_n3-ePSxatdqgzsbKiqa5Eyg_UyZJj5ueOQaWIQiue4Ii1w428y8-SpPbM08Y/s1600/hedgehog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7WYR8qDLCfgtC3nQUrF8-NKH6hd4fgSfUNqu9A7R0COYPFD2N9a0Kng2dD2FJl56Zm7h8m6i5dfBYhG_n3-ePSxatdqgzsbKiqa5Eyg_UyZJj5ueOQaWIQiue4Ii1w428y8-SpPbM08Y/s320/hedgehog.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ever since Charlie has been able to voice his preference, I have started the Christmas cookie season with his favorite: Choc-Oat-Chip Cookies. If you read this blog, you already know that we call those</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/2004-hedgehog-cookies.html" target="_blank">Hedgehog Cookies</a> because our standard cookie jar is Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle jar and I try keep her stocked with his faves off-season. This time of year, I suppose we could call them Snowman Cookies, but Charlie's nickname has stuck.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLufL0_Ze8bOyD9_-eZpvjwBFVbUd6hBJytoV03gp9rb_7Bh31cg_oBnuqapLu7crzkkAA2X5hG-7749PBs8H6uCb5w2gpk6catOabTId3TYPxf5M6dOkBBEAFmQSk4B2qZFmVjJjjf7Q/s1600/P1010005_20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLufL0_Ze8bOyD9_-eZpvjwBFVbUd6hBJytoV03gp9rb_7Bh31cg_oBnuqapLu7crzkkAA2X5hG-7749PBs8H6uCb5w2gpk6catOabTId3TYPxf5M6dOkBBEAFmQSk4B2qZFmVjJjjf7Q/s320/P1010005_20.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
They're so easy to make because I don't have to chill the dough, most of the ingredients are quotidian, and I have a <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/a-stirring-tribute-to-my-kitchenaid.html" target="_blank">KitchenAid</a> stand mixer! I love looking back on the early journal entries, when we made all these goodies by hand! I nearly always make a double batch and stash half in the freezer.<br />
<br />
We found the recipe in our old edition of "Joy of Cooking" by Irma S. Rombauer and Marion Rombauer Becker (1975, The Bobbs-Merrill Co., Inc.). It's a classic and I've never altered it.<br />
<br />
I usually read a recipe over before I start (except these, because I know them by heart after all these years!). But it's a good idea to plan the steps of the recipe before throwing ingredients into the bowl. Most people get their ingredients assembled, at the very least, along with any tools needed, such as a bowl for the dry ingredients, a rubber scraper or measuring cups and spoons.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfN8_i8pujEno-xa8mr-26PCqASIoci18sf3LlqlN8NQuKp4ZF4T4smHEKkD6_OSiSqVjxEz9cR44nyjkTZ9e47Q0-uve66UPj01mqCD6N3_nBGWTvEUoW7CFtLnp32wI0YhwpfG8Zmmk/s1600/IMG_0356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfN8_i8pujEno-xa8mr-26PCqASIoci18sf3LlqlN8NQuKp4ZF4T4smHEKkD6_OSiSqVjxEz9cR44nyjkTZ9e47Q0-uve66UPj01mqCD6N3_nBGWTvEUoW7CFtLnp32wI0YhwpfG8Zmmk/s320/IMG_0356.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Butter might need to be softened; nuts chopped; dough chilled. If a recipe calls for sifted dry ingredients in a bowl, though, I put them in a large measuring cup and use a whisk. So easy. And if I forget to soften the butter or leave eggs out to get room temperature, I can nuke the butter for about 10 seconds at a time until my thumbprint makes an indent; and leave eggs in warm water for 10 minutes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-WyZ8eSU6vSSDCaE6a45rJ1LiDDaprAyZV1BNNoAjSXNTmSkQS9bl2GM47_kc_X2iN5nj7tN3phZeeYsWazPc1ZbOl0PiVSLF36d4YT0mHsVKJQGCQWGWhnnzptHxtV1UbSTefPBw5M/s1600/IMG_0359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD-WyZ8eSU6vSSDCaE6a45rJ1LiDDaprAyZV1BNNoAjSXNTmSkQS9bl2GM47_kc_X2iN5nj7tN3phZeeYsWazPc1ZbOl0PiVSLF36d4YT0mHsVKJQGCQWGWhnnzptHxtV1UbSTefPBw5M/s320/IMG_0359.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I get the cooling racks and a cookie turner at the ready on the table. I line the baking trays with parchment paper, which I reuse for the whole yield, turning the paper after each use. Works a charm! If I'm baking a lot of cookies or I can't get many on a tray, I add more sheets to the rotation so the trays are cool whenever I'm dispensing cookie dough from my trusty scoop. If I'm making dough that needs to be refrigerated, I put the squares of plastic wrap on the counter before I get dough all over my hands.<br />
<br />
So please read over the recipe, get everything together, and try <b>Hedgehog Cookies</b> (or Choc-Oat-Chip Cookies), the 1st cookie of 20 to celebrate 20 years of Our Cookie Journal.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4sWVFrOHNayrciFHYaAvVdy0Hp9cwuM17m65I_P268_c7PcY3USspT0qrjsKmfc3MjBUXnhEPuG_qxUkh7l4n0Xe99fI_Z5yJhpfiMWZY2xrhVqv3-nH8W76p2aC_MelF_prcZuIFk8w/s1600/IMG_0357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4sWVFrOHNayrciFHYaAvVdy0Hp9cwuM17m65I_P268_c7PcY3USspT0qrjsKmfc3MjBUXnhEPuG_qxUkh7l4n0Xe99fI_Z5yJhpfiMWZY2xrhVqv3-nH8W76p2aC_MelF_prcZuIFk8w/s320/IMG_0357.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">Preheat oven to </span><strong style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">350</strong><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;"> degrees Fahrenheit.</span><br />
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
Cream:</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1/2 c butter</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
Add and cream well:</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1/2 c firmly packed brown sugar</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1/2 c granulated sugar</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
Combine and beat until smooth:</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1 egg</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1 tsp vanilla</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1 Tbsp milk</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
Sift together and add to the above ingredients: </div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1 c sifted all-purpose flour</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1/2 tsp baking soda</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1/2 tsp double-acting baking powder</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1/2 tsp salt</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
When beaten smooth, add:</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">1 c uncooked quick rolled oats</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
Add:</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
<strong style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline: none 0px;">3/4 c chocolate chips</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
Beat the mixture well. Drop cookies 2 inches apart on a well-greased cookie sheet and bake 10 to 12 minutes or until light brown.</div>
<br />
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLufL0_Ze8bOyD9_-eZpvjwBFVbUd6hBJytoV03gp9rb_7Bh31cg_oBnuqapLu7crzkkAA2X5hG-7749PBs8H6uCb5w2gpk6catOabTId3TYPxf5M6dOkBBEAFmQSk4B2qZFmVjJjjf7Q/s1600/P1010005_20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: -5px; margin-top: 10px; outline: none 0px;">
Yield: about 3 dozen<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDKTxcTg4i40mKfenkPoQpI_kVMBNli6E0oNubagVf30LQ0lv5aopdKm2WaaY24hrFtBYz1SfgWAJ478m7KIh6ZEZ162TlT2An-T6eW_g2fN8P1HoPmU1olcyOIqyN75qGfdhfhBqVpg/s1600/IMG_6231.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHDKTxcTg4i40mKfenkPoQpI_kVMBNli6E0oNubagVf30LQ0lv5aopdKm2WaaY24hrFtBYz1SfgWAJ478m7KIh6ZEZ162TlT2An-T6eW_g2fN8P1HoPmU1olcyOIqyN75qGfdhfhBqVpg/s320/IMG_6231.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-24915329137256915912013-12-01T14:56:00.000+00:002013-12-01T15:21:44.890+00:00I'm so Chexcited! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhKfM9xRvDC5APKa2rwLyPDKB7eK4HVtlHfpZw5ooR3inOMQc2zCUoVoYSUX-Wunvsa5qscx-uWlJIuFi1bUQFxyASXXevJLkYvDdDLuaX3ppMU5f0W1BmLmyiEEsvCMRLeAnu8BqblLE/s1600/IMG_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhKfM9xRvDC5APKa2rwLyPDKB7eK4HVtlHfpZw5ooR3inOMQc2zCUoVoYSUX-Wunvsa5qscx-uWlJIuFi1bUQFxyASXXevJLkYvDdDLuaX3ppMU5f0W1BmLmyiEEsvCMRLeAnu8BqblLE/s320/IMG_0001.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I was so Chexcited about getting a care package from Mom that I was tracking it with <a href="http://parcelapp.net/" target="_blank">Parcel</a>, a great iPhone app that lets you follow the trail of parcels you send and/or receive. After Mom mailed it from Louisville, Ky., Nov. 22, she gave me the tracking number. Using the app, I knew it was in Chicago the next day; reached the UK International Hub on Thanksgiving Day; and on to the Oxford Depot Friday. So I knew that <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/2012-she-bakes-cookies-and-hands-them.html" target="_blank">Mark</a> (or somebody with Parcel Force) would bring what I had dubbed "Chex box" on Friday.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDl5GS_8zFHeT7bQ-M_9U6Wnm_ZqC7ORNIBDW7D8_tZshfYhHL9vhmAAmS-ewIkYmrQ-D5sOeUSPLMqz5ivCvdmfi2SibDLYKSOKP9dclprmpHh1iGK1q9lwOuwU1NAFI_Fj3pqjiZUTg/s1600/IMG_0347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDl5GS_8zFHeT7bQ-M_9U6Wnm_ZqC7ORNIBDW7D8_tZshfYhHL9vhmAAmS-ewIkYmrQ-D5sOeUSPLMqz5ivCvdmfi2SibDLYKSOKP9dclprmpHh1iGK1q9lwOuwU1NAFI_Fj3pqjiZUTg/s320/IMG_0347.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I couldn't wait for the package because I wanted to make <a href="http://www.chex.com/Recipes/RecipeView.aspx?RecipeId=6709" target="_blank">Chex Party Mix</a> so much! I even measured out the rest of the ingredients, got out the roasting pan, and I had the 1-cup measurer lying on the counter in wait — let's get this Chex Mix party started, right? I had a loaf of <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/1995-mom-dads-pumpkin-bread.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Bread</a> from Thanksgiving enrobed in foil and tied with raffia at the door for whoever brought my treasure box. Finally, Mark came about 5 p.m. and as soon as we gladly exchanged our packages, I was off to mix my cereal squares together for the first official holiday batch of glorious Chex Mix. Yes, I love it that much. It's — yes, I'm going to say it — Chextreme how much I love it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFvNQEjeWsKBmM_I-mTo7p0jnicypuKoIRv4DEVYTQCrDCqBgMe98Ugh7OJ-5T7vsR9qkdtyoQFLZFagC1foKXz8WDdcsVX66IPtQ3CmObYsOpkjEP9VwLVeaa41b9pOYsdKHFdl_RoQ/s1600/IMG_0349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFvNQEjeWsKBmM_I-mTo7p0jnicypuKoIRv4DEVYTQCrDCqBgMe98Ugh7OJ-5T7vsR9qkdtyoQFLZFagC1foKXz8WDdcsVX66IPtQ3CmObYsOpkjEP9VwLVeaa41b9pOYsdKHFdl_RoQ/s320/IMG_0349.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We were nibbling on it as it dried on paper towels. We snacked on it later while we watched "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas" on the ol' VCR. We must have had it for breakfast too because it is gone! And there are only two of us eating it. This madness must stop! But it's Chriiiiiiiistmas!! So, I made another batch and we will have to just go easy on it, I told my son.<br />
<br />
I was tempted to finish up the cereals and make another batch but I thought it would last longer if I didn't. I did, however, measure out all the dry ingredients, with seasonings separate, so I can whip up a batch as soon as is necessary!<br />
<br />
I found some great snowflake-shaped pretzels at Sainsbury's and I used pecans and cashews. I also add a 1/4 teaspoon of celery salt to mine, as was traditional when my Grandma Baker made it when I was a kid. She also used Cheerios and called it "Nuts and Bolts." Lisa and I used to add Bugles but I don't anymore.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1eZx7pp88_Vy7nYOAZVEnHpiwISLjyZqvwpeGq5kJiDHMxhUC_MgIjgOOcgkmMJAHObhp3huzaashPXmwkyDqzoXCaEFCXhniFxrVR8WWo9JlMnpRSCfiE-ec4d0zIYX-GV1UVe8ivPc/s1600/IMG_0361.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1eZx7pp88_Vy7nYOAZVEnHpiwISLjyZqvwpeGq5kJiDHMxhUC_MgIjgOOcgkmMJAHObhp3huzaashPXmwkyDqzoXCaEFCXhniFxrVR8WWo9JlMnpRSCfiE-ec4d0zIYX-GV1UVe8ivPc/s320/IMG_0361.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I have always complained that the three boxes of cereal should be the same size (or at the least, do a special promo for Christmas). You can just about get three batches out of three boxes but the wheat is always light. That's nine cups each, but you only get seven cups of wheat. So, I make one regular batch, then the next two have two cups of wheat each, and an extra cup of corn/rice to make up for the loss. I know I'll get one more care package from Mom before Christmas. And it will have three boxes of Chex cereal in it. But next year, I'm going to start with four (an extra wheat), so I have enough wheat to make every batch Chexceptional.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-64891147780049646912013-11-30T15:13:00.000+00:002013-11-30T15:13:38.833+00:00Giving Thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJe0r1iQifgmIzYeGcQVBIekSB8WM2UeKwZELQIm7XyF4iqCTQMeRnlBhONFy1yASMmVzH5wZ9skEzynKGK-e6ySVRUI_cfW6I0AZq-JSE2tJQquaYUUXaKbkGLhNW8X7OE5d4zRwu25A/s1600/IMG_0327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJe0r1iQifgmIzYeGcQVBIekSB8WM2UeKwZELQIm7XyF4iqCTQMeRnlBhONFy1yASMmVzH5wZ9skEzynKGK-e6ySVRUI_cfW6I0AZq-JSE2tJQquaYUUXaKbkGLhNW8X7OE5d4zRwu25A/s320/IMG_0327.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: center;">As I've said in here before, Our Cookie Journal turns out to be about more than cookies. Right now, I'm waiting for a care package from Mom that contains the Chex cereals I need to make Chex Party Mix (or my holiday is not complete!). And I made a lovely Pumpkin Pie the day before Thanksgiving and used an oak-leaf cookie cutter to make cutouts to line the pie crust. </span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7hu_O0kqM3SFjIMOKrXHqISdnJcEisL5sXVmoA8V0DqXpjytyvCqqAYx4LbHMMG8hmZeiAeMHT4juSqUohxCinQUmcvgRgldeD8sGfvJqY3VO-dD_smq2WqaDr-je9-_66lEYRct-xY/s1600/pies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7hu_O0kqM3SFjIMOKrXHqISdnJcEisL5sXVmoA8V0DqXpjytyvCqqAYx4LbHMMG8hmZeiAeMHT4juSqUohxCinQUmcvgRgldeD8sGfvJqY3VO-dD_smq2WqaDr-je9-_66lEYRct-xY/s320/pies.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
But it's not just because we've always loved cakes and pies and other holiday treats. Our Cookie Journal is about our friends and family, who become as much a part of these entries as they are a part of our lives. I shared photos of my pie online with my cousins, who had pictures of their pies: cherry, lemon and pumpkin. I didn't see any "nasty" <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/1998-judy-judy-judy.html" target="_blank">Sugar Pies</a> though. My dad's Buckeye relatives usually have those for Thanksgiving and Christmas and I've never liked them: to me, they're like Pecan Pies without the pecans!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Naturally, I thought of Dad too when I baked <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/1995-mom-dads-pumpkin-bread.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Bread</a> because I always consult the journal to double-check the recipe and to fondly recall how much he loved to bake it (and share it) when he was alive. And my sister Lisa, co-founder of Our Cookie Journal, always makes me laugh and cry because I miss her as I bake my way through every season, and I'll never forget her <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/2001-un-pumpkin-bread.html" target="_blank">Un-Pumpkin Bread</a>. It's not that I don't think of them throughout the year — I always do — but it seems more keen at the holidays because family is so much a part of the festivities.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWf0YVYWSZGvN7-CuJUGKNYb_AW8tkosTZWjdknRbZhwEnHHcOcGjParrJe1uGB2OdGcr6sX5VRkgoYXFjfbSuScmlLbtWYcGWjlxePg_OUdqqwTNVlpAoX1Cs8dvJ3g0x7-KCITIHod0/s1600/heather.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWf0YVYWSZGvN7-CuJUGKNYb_AW8tkosTZWjdknRbZhwEnHHcOcGjParrJe1uGB2OdGcr6sX5VRkgoYXFjfbSuScmlLbtWYcGWjlxePg_OUdqqwTNVlpAoX1Cs8dvJ3g0x7-KCITIHod0/s320/heather.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heather, Aunt Mary and Dew</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
This year, as I look forward to Christmas cookie baking (and sharing) and as I've celebrated Thanksgiving with my son and prepared our feast, I've been enveloped in an aching sadness for my cousin, Heather Brion, who died this week. Even though she lived in Virginia (where my aunt — her mother — also moved), I always think of her as one of my Buckeye cousins. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We connected again on FaceBook (it really is good for some things) and I got to see her again at a Baker Bash a few years ago in Gibsonburg, Ohio. I take great pleasure in that. And I find comfort in my memories, particularly at holidays, when my father would pile us into the car and "head up home" to visit his family in Ohio, especially at Thanksgiving or Christmas. There was always a Sugar Pie and I know that Heather loved them as much as my dad did (and she'd tease me about not liking them). And it tasted of love and home and family for each of them.</div>
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VFSVO4bbCYacuDLPiBiIfYpXNr1rqn8l7ShoLXDDkRqqXb0sGTmojVPUpkEv4CmLC6BUWpFfgX5vG-pmQ6_y7IO9iW5dEgXksNVXkDC8CDDEf51Qxfkzc7a-C4OzCESGlcy8vqzVeYY/s1600/bakercousins2010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3VFSVO4bbCYacuDLPiBiIfYpXNr1rqn8l7ShoLXDDkRqqXb0sGTmojVPUpkEv4CmLC6BUWpFfgX5vG-pmQ6_y7IO9iW5dEgXksNVXkDC8CDDEf51Qxfkzc7a-C4OzCESGlcy8vqzVeYY/s320/bakercousins2010.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Buckeye" cousins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div>
So despite feeling thankful for my health, my family and all that we have, I couldn't help but feeling guilty for celebrating when poor Heather was gone and my Aunt Mary and Uncle Terry would be missing her particularly sorely. I found some solace in the fact that Heather is no longer in pain, from which she was suffering before her death as a young adult. And my aunt and uncle (and Heather's boyfriend, Dew) have the support of family and friends to help them through this difficult time. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I find it poignant as we raised our glasses to toast her sense of humor, her fondness for animals, her strong political views and activism, and her love for her family — that she was giving of herself, even after her death. As an organ donor, Heather helped four other people in a massive way that will significantly alter some other lives forever. And those people and their families will remember this Thanksgiving as the best one ever because of the generous heart of someone they'd never met: Heather Brion, my cousin. As another Buckeye cousin, Jeanette (now living in North Carolina), put it: "What a legacy to leave."</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Aunt Mary said she was going to a Thanksgiving dinner but she would not be making a Sugar Pie this year like she always has for Heather. I understand that: Mom shoved a tray of Christmas cookies onto the floor shortly after Lisa died because the grief was just too raw to make merry, or cookies. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I know that one day, Aunt Mary will be able to bake a Sugar Pie again — and she'll savor the taste of love and home and family. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-29509627536493388842013-11-29T16:07:00.001+00:002013-11-29T16:22:01.026+00:00Rustle Up a Pile of Autumn Leaf Sugar Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTcdfLjT8xPEqwple9QtFDNNzdQh_0EPiEM73ct1V9qRhO-Iip9eCF0eYI0NobCeq27V2aNsyNQY6EDiz4Lgqb8PGdcYWcgQIGzp2hOb2xvKcANLkE0iR2JM3onkbE0rg2xOt4_-kSaAg/s1600/IMG_0293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTcdfLjT8xPEqwple9QtFDNNzdQh_0EPiEM73ct1V9qRhO-Iip9eCF0eYI0NobCeq27V2aNsyNQY6EDiz4Lgqb8PGdcYWcgQIGzp2hOb2xvKcANLkE0iR2JM3onkbE0rg2xOt4_-kSaAg/s320/IMG_0293.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thanksgiving came and went too quickly!<br />
<br />
I started craving Pumpkin Bread last week but couldn't find time to make it till Tuesday this week! It was time to buy some Philly and get serious. I used <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/1995-mom-dads-pumpkin-bread.html" target="_blank">Mom & Dad's recipe</a>, of course — dividing the aromatic, amber mixture into five aluminum pans I'd sprayed with Pam. When they were enrobed in foil, I put all but one in the freezer. Neil and I polished off one by Thursday, so I had to have pumpkin pie for breakfast Thanksgiving morning because they were all frozen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgec7ZjsMj7m6kY_VdDzkN4xEF1IBdLjSGCwxjKyIsBmSJDbwptDkCDAodXQFGJpNem6F_vyn0tjbP8tskZhdgHiPDyIzfze1uJGYtMCsbliAmHKqQ2pX9C4l4lX0YRIDygKwtDi_8BBxc/s1600/IMG_0294.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgec7ZjsMj7m6kY_VdDzkN4xEF1IBdLjSGCwxjKyIsBmSJDbwptDkCDAodXQFGJpNem6F_vyn0tjbP8tskZhdgHiPDyIzfze1uJGYtMCsbliAmHKqQ2pX9C4l4lX0YRIDygKwtDi_8BBxc/s320/IMG_0294.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I wound up giving one loaf to the butcher Wednesday when I went to pick up our turkey breast. They knew I'd be celebrating Thanksgiving but I've added a strictly British staple from the Christmas dinner to my Thanksgiving menu: chipolata sausages. They are the perfect combination with the turkey and gravy. And he contributed them free of charge to our Thanksgiving table, as a thanks for the Pumpkin Bread. How nice!<br />
<br />
My son doesn't like Pumpkin Pie, which is my traditional Thanksgiving dessert, so I rustled up a pile of Autumn Leaf Sugar Cookies just for him Tuesday. It's a very easy recipe, no frosting or decoration required — just a standard sugar cookie recipe, to which you add seasonal food coloring. You can also add other extracts, zests or flavorings, if you like.<br />
<br />
I usually go with Martha Stewart's <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/342228/sugar-cookie-cutouts" target="_blank">sugar cookie recipe</a> but I used another one that I found when I made <a href="http://www.bustle.com/articles/6930-halloween-candy-corn-swirl-cookies-are-ridiculously-easy-to-make-recipe" target="_blank">Candy Corn Swirl Cookies</a> for Charlie's Halloween party. They vary very little. I got to use my new canisters that I bought at Sainsbury's too. I bought them to put on the counter, where they'll be easy to use as the holiday baking blitz begins!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCop6OaUFjwGEePtDmtCs4oDErzrTMPh_V7HmA-Uj1ednQB40w6UlTNFfEqRZ6-Uh_l16YlLSjB_-ASYncIhzSwPNSD61yhHxPIdOGUmaR6CwfbLYvat1SpHtEtnyWR5lrLodtiOk_a64/s1600/IMG_0295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCop6OaUFjwGEePtDmtCs4oDErzrTMPh_V7HmA-Uj1ednQB40w6UlTNFfEqRZ6-Uh_l16YlLSjB_-ASYncIhzSwPNSD61yhHxPIdOGUmaR6CwfbLYvat1SpHtEtnyWR5lrLodtiOk_a64/s320/IMG_0295.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I divided the dough into thirds (about 1 cup each), got a gob of food coloring paste onto a toothpick and smeared it onto each dough ball. After kneading the color into the dough, I shaped them into discs, wrapped them in plastic wrap and refrigerated them for two hours (or overnight).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fZTf2ZTlVFXolVk99oIWUDy2U-kL2Lj8RdWe3q3IlvZCAuu3efMg2Nlp-Ed9w2AEJjosqTbSakfyl_Vi2QUWm_vMNFEcj58X6VNGFlLYFJC53fH0-N9v6NE15Cn7XByIceysDgKtCoU/s1600/IMG_0296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fZTf2ZTlVFXolVk99oIWUDy2U-kL2Lj8RdWe3q3IlvZCAuu3efMg2Nlp-Ed9w2AEJjosqTbSakfyl_Vi2QUWm_vMNFEcj58X6VNGFlLYFJC53fH0-N9v6NE15Cn7XByIceysDgKtCoU/s200/IMG_0296.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuHMeV54aDj9mc7DMVyAux-2WqpP-rNBJfK4Adc4vUor_Lm7XHm-EfYDRd7iBjxo5dUvene71p85rTKgewelV-tYtH0TjFefF-wiZS8j6VUv_VQAlvwjqZeJ5sCEcnHMI9uHbLRriodU/s1600/IMG_0297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZuHMeV54aDj9mc7DMVyAux-2WqpP-rNBJfK4Adc4vUor_Lm7XHm-EfYDRd7iBjxo5dUvene71p85rTKgewelV-tYtH0TjFefF-wiZS8j6VUv_VQAlvwjqZeJ5sCEcnHMI9uHbLRriodU/s200/IMG_0297.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Now for the fun part: I unwrapped the dough, tore off random bits from each color and created an autumn mosaic of dough! There's no way of getting it wrong, really. Just mix up the colors and roll. They're like tie-dyed cookies. I kept the dough I wasn't using in the fridge till I was ready for it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWDQX1-pN41hOB1Nta0Xx0ozW_jw9XeM9fCLHv2_N4JhgCi3ohgc26Hj9qf7eskfb7qB7vgtbHFMOl-uoX4O6twgZaiUti1Cy8f_dIPjqA7xsYjG06qsrrn7hBc_-rNBZDrQX7_RjYAQ/s1600/IMG_0301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWDQX1-pN41hOB1Nta0Xx0ozW_jw9XeM9fCLHv2_N4JhgCi3ohgc26Hj9qf7eskfb7qB7vgtbHFMOl-uoX4O6twgZaiUti1Cy8f_dIPjqA7xsYjG06qsrrn7hBc_-rNBZDrQX7_RjYAQ/s320/IMG_0301.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
After getting the dough going on a floured countertop, I moved it to a parchment-lined baking sheet, while it was still easy to handle. Once I rolled it to about 1/4-inch thickness, I put the cookie tray in the freezer for about 10 minutes (while I got another sheet going).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZzYUTo1NcsUr90UYpFfj_N0zVr8XicTv3K_KAlkLgq_uI5mskvwakGpWgzNdRx9h7joYExbl0Qn7R-h78kUR81uPqPoriv9qQEA7FO4ngcDU1Ds6lesGplcECbsBtvM3ml1fVo4dilcY/s1600/IMG_0314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZzYUTo1NcsUr90UYpFfj_N0zVr8XicTv3K_KAlkLgq_uI5mskvwakGpWgzNdRx9h7joYExbl0Qn7R-h78kUR81uPqPoriv9qQEA7FO4ngcDU1Ds6lesGplcECbsBtvM3ml1fVo4dilcY/s320/IMG_0314.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
I brought out the cold, kaleidoscopic dough sheets and cut out the cookies, right on the trays, lifting the dough away, instead of moving the cookies from a counter to the trays. This method helps any cut-out cookie keep its shape during the baking process.<br />
<br />
After getting all the cookies cut out and the unused dough laid onto the counter, the cookies went back in the freezer for another five minutes before baking.<br />
<br />
I always watch sugar cookies carefully, not letting the edges brown, usually going with the minimal amount of time called for in a recipe because they keep on baking on the trays. They cooled on the rack, except for a couple that Charlie and I grabbed while still soft and warm.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpaT2IIBrp1K_E9-FsRMIfWZnFGAjOsrKb5y6vYHiyNgkNF9KKl9zrwbEYxpExNK6Qi4z7bN-d7vE15M2ST1E_TA3HwkwZ-odsqv8pFtJEbKGd7KK4SiefYqi0oOnLJCnHWDqTie1rPXw/s1600/IMG_0302.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpaT2IIBrp1K_E9-FsRMIfWZnFGAjOsrKb5y6vYHiyNgkNF9KKl9zrwbEYxpExNK6Qi4z7bN-d7vE15M2ST1E_TA3HwkwZ-odsqv8pFtJEbKGd7KK4SiefYqi0oOnLJCnHWDqTie1rPXw/s320/IMG_0302.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The dough that's been laid aside now needs to be rolled out again, forming a new mosaic. Each time it looks different, just like in nature! These are so great because you can't go wrong. Of course, the more times you roll out the dough, the more homogenized the colors become, so after the third time, it's like that cricket-colored brown of yucky leaves that collect near the gutter after it rains. I didn't make any like that but I'm sure they would still get eaten. Each time you roll out a new mosaic, freeze it till you can work with it again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU1I4pxrsZiO7yBeplbcSLqius9NYoRkigMOhM6w3BrIydwpTwN-kGVRYoLb5isYK9Zn3U9J9q4IH_QjhVraIwl4P6ss_XQmizj2jrnbFhCYq0t8hcKVZ9_9u6T6hVhh2HB-veUAxIgeA/s1600/IMG_0305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU1I4pxrsZiO7yBeplbcSLqius9NYoRkigMOhM6w3BrIydwpTwN-kGVRYoLb5isYK9Zn3U9J9q4IH_QjhVraIwl4P6ss_XQmizj2jrnbFhCYq0t8hcKVZ9_9u6T6hVhh2HB-veUAxIgeA/s320/IMG_0305.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I used my copper maple leaf cutter and yellow, red and orange doughs. The cookies were cute and colorful and had a yummy, simple flavor that Charlie likes. I wouldn't mind a sprinkling of colored sugar or a citrus extract or zest on mine next time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq7qmfzY1NI_VxUP2iTSyKqARk9p73E2B4JWNeMnnu9gcacGVQeuayBnTCsUcaPUjNyIGlwvtzx2nbmktKXqTnnoveYpBi8ymeNcCiBUyWtZ4mxPCVFyKtoIj8YkQW6xvNDLff3pucXcQ/s1600/IMG_0318.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq7qmfzY1NI_VxUP2iTSyKqARk9p73E2B4JWNeMnnu9gcacGVQeuayBnTCsUcaPUjNyIGlwvtzx2nbmktKXqTnnoveYpBi8ymeNcCiBUyWtZ4mxPCVFyKtoIj8YkQW6xvNDLff3pucXcQ/s320/IMG_0318.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBgYHYZ2Net09PCGR0my2tuiYBT8vLydhB7ZLXEz5JY9HecLMaVNvlcgpKo38HFD1sUm5mEt5FSA0yxjnpPb8jGSM8LF-ucwenm6iYTb01oXml8af4XQ2w-bCoqqrL5IjJYMfr5Zf7g4/s1600/IMG_0315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZBgYHYZ2Net09PCGR0my2tuiYBT8vLydhB7ZLXEz5JY9HecLMaVNvlcgpKo38HFD1sUm5mEt5FSA0yxjnpPb8jGSM8LF-ucwenm6iYTb01oXml8af4XQ2w-bCoqqrL5IjJYMfr5Zf7g4/s320/IMG_0315.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-39630863197642585242013-10-01T08:55:00.000+01:002013-10-01T08:55:59.443+01:00What's Your Favorite Christmas Cookie?<br />
This Christmas will mark the 20th anniversary of Our Cookie Journal. I know I will be baking the classic faves in our house: <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=hedgehog+cookies" target="_blank">Hedgehog Cookies</a></b>, <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/1996-we-dub-thee-dunkables.html" target="_blank">Dunkable Brownies</a></b> and <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/2006-overnight-cookies-sensation.html" target="_blank">Grandma Baker's Overnight Cookies</a></b>. I'll also incorporate some new entries that I discovered last Christmas: <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/256456/cinnamon-swirl-cookies" target="_blank">Cinnamon-Swirl Cookies</a></b> and <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/go-nuts-its-national-pistachio-day.html" target="_blank">Brownie Thins</a></b>, to name a few.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiliAteHa8s4jX7DPvMtuFTDXBhd0k0vnwTseT9pvPSDnsk0Oh95lq3cpBbJtayX8OyUPSLoD5KDFkSKAA67Mi87X74HaHRa01nw8zz3sevIzCpXCu5-E7o3nTrnuBIk7rAhbvtn-RPOx8/s1600/IMG_5971.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiliAteHa8s4jX7DPvMtuFTDXBhd0k0vnwTseT9pvPSDnsk0Oh95lq3cpBbJtayX8OyUPSLoD5KDFkSKAA67Mi87X74HaHRa01nw8zz3sevIzCpXCu5-E7o3nTrnuBIk7rAhbvtn-RPOx8/s320/IMG_5971.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
But I'm always looking for new favorites to add to the lineup. That's where you come in: What's your favorite cookie at Christmastime? What cookie holds the most memories for you? Perhaps it's a time-honored recipe for sugar cookies from your grandmother; or a gingerbread you bake every year with your children; or something you found on Pinterest that you can't wait to try. Whatever the source, please leave your comments here so I can plan my cookie tray for this Christmas. Feel free to leave a link to your own blog or another site.<br />
<br />
As December draws near, I'll be sharing those recipes and your comments in this year's Journal entries, as I bake and highlight 20 different cookies to mark the 20th anniversary of Our Cookie Journal. It'll be here before we know it!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-56551197044134671732013-09-10T10:45:00.000+01:002013-09-10T10:45:25.768+01:002012 - It's Not Just About the CookiesHere it is December 20, and I'm making another batch of <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/1995-mom-dads-pumpkin-bread.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Bread</a></b>! It goes so fast around here — just like the <b><a href="http://www.chex.com/Recipes/RecipeView.aspx?RecipeId=6709" target="_blank">Chex Party Mix</a></b>. You'd think we were partying all the time but we don't need an excuse. I love to snack on Chex Mix and Charlie takes it for lunch. The Pumpkin Bread is great for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, so it's no wonder that it disappears so quickly (even though I start baking it before Thanksgiving!). Not only do we love it, but Pumpkin Bread or Pumpkin Muffins make the perfect Christmas food gift. I keep festively wrapped loaves in the freezer and in a basket near the door, ready for giving away. However, the idea is to have it all done and dusted (with powdered sugar?) so I'm not baking Christmas week! It's so easy to make though, I don't mind.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlJTlHsG8aYbCf55Vi0XfNA2zYn2M591QZKevufrZAxXRnyaPYLfeYPTnR2yF_U_M2xco9qV18-xCIjm3GIHxsxXuOLXFKk4TYuBRl8hCwzjiG6VMK3mdxRbcoSuKN4jKpKAFs8lO0170/s1600/IMG_5952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlJTlHsG8aYbCf55Vi0XfNA2zYn2M591QZKevufrZAxXRnyaPYLfeYPTnR2yF_U_M2xco9qV18-xCIjm3GIHxsxXuOLXFKk4TYuBRl8hCwzjiG6VMK3mdxRbcoSuKN4jKpKAFs8lO0170/s320/IMG_5952.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pumpkin Bread loaves at the ready.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span id="goog_486811526"></span><span id="goog_486811527"></span><br />
<br />
I'm finished baking cookies though. I made (pictured below, from top left): <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/05/2012-st-nicholas-day.html" target="_blank">Dutch Spice Cookies</a></b>, <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/go-nuts-its-national-pistachio-day.html" target="_blank">Brownie Thins</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/316508/lime-glazed-cookies" target="_blank">Lime-Glazed Cookies</a>,</b> <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/1996-we-dub-thee-dunkables.html" target="_blank">Dunkable Brownies,</a></b> <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=vanilla+bean+butter+cookies" target="_blank">Vanilla-Bean Butter Cookies, </a><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/256456/cinnamon-swirl-cookies" target="_blank">Cinnamon-Swirl Cookies,</a></b> <b><a href="http://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/18476/original-nestl%C3%89-toll-house-chocolate-chip-cookies/detail.aspx" target="_blank">Nestlé Tollhouse Chocolate Chip Cookies,</a></b> <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/2006-overnight-cookies-sensation.html" target="_blank">Grandma's Overnight Cookies,</a></b> <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/356091/lemon-poppy-seed-cookies" target="_blank">Lemon Poppy-Seed Cookies</a></b> and <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/342228/sugar-cookie-cutouts" target="_blank">Sugar Cookies</a></b>. Hard to believe that I didn't get to make everything I wanted but there's always next year!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8R46lX8unljKGaIEQ8m1aIwW0Wwd3xKVoNBd4qE0QIBELlwOElaCDyi476whDDAbb8zIrJEXenIlfALHAhtPxQrxIqdqKqlpUiorAeZDWHIKIDMe3KVi1GgSOFKiIdoQwbsaxPDtVj48/s1600/IMG_5971.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8R46lX8unljKGaIEQ8m1aIwW0Wwd3xKVoNBd4qE0QIBELlwOElaCDyi476whDDAbb8zIrJEXenIlfALHAhtPxQrxIqdqKqlpUiorAeZDWHIKIDMe3KVi1GgSOFKiIdoQwbsaxPDtVj48/s320/IMG_5971.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've enjoyed this year's baking even more than usual because it's gone hand-in-hand with getting Our Cookie Journal online. So, not only have I been baking and keeping track of it all in the Journal as always, I'm putting the Journal online in blog form. It's funny, really: I've been "blogging" about Christmas cookies since 1993, when my sister Lisa gave me the journal to keep track of our baking adventures. I've tried to keep copious notes but it hasn't always worked that way. Sometimes life (or death) took over and there was little to say about cookies. Other times, the baking couldn't start until the Journal was produced, perused and left open for a new year of recording.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCvGJnt6vSt8IANap-SOskvo5_3T1yfMmxbLoPT75bD3wjkQPVUpKrd4gzDMHkqS_XBnvNe4-3DGdTw4UJuIWs4HybOSwXvWM3DqFg-Om7_YmQLzVNVBJ95dvyHdlO_8VxZBdoTBgzng/s1600/IMG_5268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCvGJnt6vSt8IANap-SOskvo5_3T1yfMmxbLoPT75bD3wjkQPVUpKrd4gzDMHkqS_XBnvNe4-3DGdTw4UJuIWs4HybOSwXvWM3DqFg-Om7_YmQLzVNVBJ95dvyHdlO_8VxZBdoTBgzng/s320/IMG_5268.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Cookie Journal is filled with memories.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I always tried to take photos of the cookie trays or us baking, but never to the extent that we do nowadays. In fact, I struggled to find photos to accompany the blog entries for some years. As I went hunting for visual representations, I'd get lost among the albums and boxes of old photos, looking for pictures to go with certain entries. Eventually, I became more organized with my recipes and photos, and the closer we got to the digital age, the more plentiful the choices became.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx0YpMBlAktP4YYtPiPviBLEhrmGt3rt4KtreSysPaNuZpFF2vDuL0MBYFtKIC5Q1vnHjzDUO9-QRGqJpsXVZsp2GGX_-jIyvabCRU7mG6dB41kAlQjd1xlIqe_woWDKVLDN_pAG4rCog/s1600/me%2526lisa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx0YpMBlAktP4YYtPiPviBLEhrmGt3rt4KtreSysPaNuZpFF2vDuL0MBYFtKIC5Q1vnHjzDUO9-QRGqJpsXVZsp2GGX_-jIyvabCRU7mG6dB41kAlQjd1xlIqe_woWDKVLDN_pAG4rCog/s320/me%2526lisa.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My sister Lisa and I baked cookies every Christmas.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some days the photos made me cry; some days the Journal entries led me to call family members to corroborate a memory, or to find a photo of Grandma baking, or double-check a recipe. Often the past years would rush by as I transcribed the entries; and I relived each one, laughing, crying, remembering. And I realized that it's not just Our Cookie Journal, it's "Our Family Journal." The cookies were filled with love for our families and friends, with whom we shared our homemade treats. And even though it started out being about the cookie-baking experiences of my sister and me, it became about the whole family.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhoP9so_DWAqZ8CmBCpwBU7weS2zoOZHjdHw4IwZeRT2rPcIbW7zPfIKavTElIcWJSLiJVYgXjvdssI59xHSg-i4jttU_EZolcl5VDygcyQXqU6Jvk1ZI5e1PVPGSNt53TN_VE8fjAwg/s1600/Vanilla-Bean+Butter+Cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhoP9so_DWAqZ8CmBCpwBU7weS2zoOZHjdHw4IwZeRT2rPcIbW7zPfIKavTElIcWJSLiJVYgXjvdssI59xHSg-i4jttU_EZolcl5VDygcyQXqU6Jvk1ZI5e1PVPGSNt53TN_VE8fjAwg/s320/Vanilla-Bean+Butter+Cookies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Since Christmas 2013 will mark the 20th anniversary of Our Cookie Journal, I'm determined to bake and blog every day in December. I know I will be baking the classic faves: Hedgehog Cookies, Dunkable Brownies and Grandma Baker's Overnight Cookies. And I'll incorporate some new entries that I discovered last Christmas: Cinnamon-Swirl Cookies and Brownie Thins, to name a few. But I'm always looking for new favorites to add to the lineup. That's where you come in: What's your favorite cookie at Christmastime? What cookie holds the most memories for you? Please leave your comments here so I can plan this year's cookie tray. As we get closer to December, I'll be sharing those recipes and your comments in this year's Journal entries, as I bake and highlight 20 different cookies to mark the 20th anniversary of Our Cookie Journal.<br />
<br />
I hope you've enjoyed these entries and that I've inspired you to fill your kitchen with cookies and memories for your own family. Thank you for your continued support, kind comments and loyal following.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBnM4Ub1x4kGtbFviy87LcUaLK9xqWDHcB2f7XlsZ1EqGF8raHtt-j3oknVWBptyT5ykY83c765gY9r-i6abh3yV3gdW2Ic5JDHdav-Er0CKCz9djvIGZHtdFOCstGRg-Jy6-reSVXQU/s1600/CC_logo_chocolate.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBnM4Ub1x4kGtbFviy87LcUaLK9xqWDHcB2f7XlsZ1EqGF8raHtt-j3oknVWBptyT5ykY83c765gY9r-i6abh3yV3gdW2Ic5JDHdav-Er0CKCz9djvIGZHtdFOCstGRg-Jy6-reSVXQU/s320/CC_logo_chocolate.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-70740896682009024122013-06-21T10:36:00.000+01:002013-06-21T10:36:14.096+01:002012 - Mince Pies Not Words<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAlS2Jq160TQ90Ygl4LNW63m6XZaD_Oj1J6I4LPWOLpDwZ1cP1KP-v8AIajg-lVfDb-Ai9eBwfEUllxE4hHF4R7blaldqHHjOh-bYVDP8ELFacYpr8O7S0dHaMhovjbTnhlhdTTh1j8E/s1600/IMG_0256+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghAlS2Jq160TQ90Ygl4LNW63m6XZaD_Oj1J6I4LPWOLpDwZ1cP1KP-v8AIajg-lVfDb-Ai9eBwfEUllxE4hHF4R7blaldqHHjOh-bYVDP8ELFacYpr8O7S0dHaMhovjbTnhlhdTTh1j8E/s320/IMG_0256+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm not sure if these <b>Mincemeat Pinwheels</b> can be called cookies but they certainly qualify as Christmas goodies. Personally, I don't like mincemeat — in the form of pies or otherwise. But my English husband considers it an integral part of Christmas. He usually just buys the mass-produced <span style="text-align: center;">mini-pies available at every supermarket at this time of year. But I watched Lorraine Pascale's "Last Minute Christmas" on BBC2 and saw this recipe, so I thought I'd give it a bash.</span><br />
<br />
All you need is puff pastry (pre-made, of course!), mincemeat and an egg. Maple syrup and powdered sugar are optional. I used pre-made mincemeat too! However, I doctored it up with a bit of orange zest, port and vanilla.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaL7BxJzFlKMbqh0TvuZXFyR5VDPNQZDrK4kSlTWBtYcitcaTA2GVIzjDbo1-kuQ4Aw7S2nIhCGIhSGf7YLFFtVqF-6kKzGojH36TiXIdd-OXk-8_tJm28Rl_4HINNsda7dhzzcV_1cV4/s1600/IMG_5959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaL7BxJzFlKMbqh0TvuZXFyR5VDPNQZDrK4kSlTWBtYcitcaTA2GVIzjDbo1-kuQ4Aw7S2nIhCGIhSGf7YLFFtVqF-6kKzGojH36TiXIdd-OXk-8_tJm28Rl_4HINNsda7dhzzcV_1cV4/s320/IMG_5959.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Roll out the puff pastry sheet so that it measures 30x30 centimeters. Cut it into nine squares (10x10 centimeters each). I saved the scraps and cut stars from them to decorate the top of the pinwheels.<br />
<br />
Place one tablespoon of mincemeat in the center of each square. Whisk up an egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon of water; brush the edges of the squares. Then cut the pastry from just outside the mincemeat to each corner with a knife. Now pull up every other corner to the center, creating a pinwheel. Brush the top with egg wash and affix a star to the center.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglf9AIuYQ6eWMx05O4aWI_08ESGqnBH-HijQQhqauq6yZFEvTtduuoO-_0fjTcqbB5UUoD3clVjdGRFu6Bm6nTifpuvCJvIgJxtcVB5GFaFEOabjkxAJ5JZWHyXnKuBfrLXusF6HcycVE/s1600/IMG_5961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglf9AIuYQ6eWMx05O4aWI_08ESGqnBH-HijQQhqauq6yZFEvTtduuoO-_0fjTcqbB5UUoD3clVjdGRFu6Bm6nTifpuvCJvIgJxtcVB5GFaFEOabjkxAJ5JZWHyXnKuBfrLXusF6HcycVE/s320/IMG_5961.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Place the pinwheels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400 for 20 minutes. Brush the top of each pinwheel with maple syrup and sprinkle with powdered sugar.<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed making these and my husband was quite pleased with their fresh, zesty flavor. If you like mincemeat pie, you'll love these!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgov_pOl6UDAB51VAZjmOl4UXIG3ksAKx9juPkGHeRjQ1bpsD77rVOn-EW-1JmiXUb0WDBbmpyeVaXc6Xc_531VehFebFid9CGapFZY6yYyIlrd5QNrsNfyKFFD6XgNZGrJlkx-0GplqaA/s1600/IMG_0256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgov_pOl6UDAB51VAZjmOl4UXIG3ksAKx9juPkGHeRjQ1bpsD77rVOn-EW-1JmiXUb0WDBbmpyeVaXc6Xc_531VehFebFid9CGapFZY6yYyIlrd5QNrsNfyKFFD6XgNZGrJlkx-0GplqaA/s320/IMG_0256.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-27209766151740576392013-06-04T10:07:00.001+01:002013-06-04T10:07:12.037+01:002012 - Slice and Bake — and Partake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGa3TVxdi5VwxqGc4dBWXOacJMjY_p_nPnL0Y9pI8by1L7V4ZyD8rhmjFrjOt3D_BOEcgdqf-nMgeScrKuSRkzw-LCk6UB816y1KCfr5Zs6Gy3TK7nrs0IJDO3xvhx1VcMIJK0lwLh39E/s1600/IMG_5871.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGa3TVxdi5VwxqGc4dBWXOacJMjY_p_nPnL0Y9pI8by1L7V4ZyD8rhmjFrjOt3D_BOEcgdqf-nMgeScrKuSRkzw-LCk6UB816y1KCfr5Zs6Gy3TK7nrs0IJDO3xvhx1VcMIJK0lwLh39E/s320/IMG_5871.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
After a shopping trip to Oxford, I came home and baked <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/2006-overnight-cookies-sensation.html" target="_blank">Grandma Baker's Overnight Cookies</a></b> two ways. Charlie doesn't like nuts and mine have pecans; I made two dozen each.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Luruw33VdqUoTP_Bmo4TkAJ1etjDj-n-2A-bYLBbX9rAKakkzHV-YU5vwpTyGppf7RP5V-6BhWv7zen3mx3emeVJUaUqMQpyxD3aNHvp5dEDwkfvtpIhgi-9z2iShUUs7Tl7Oy80_ek/s1600/IMG_5491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Luruw33VdqUoTP_Bmo4TkAJ1etjDj-n-2A-bYLBbX9rAKakkzHV-YU5vwpTyGppf7RP5V-6BhWv7zen3mx3emeVJUaUqMQpyxD3aNHvp5dEDwkfvtpIhgi-9z2iShUUs7Tl7Oy80_ek/s320/IMG_5491.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I made the dough yesterday and left it to rest in the fridge in paper towel tubes. The rolls hold their shape better when I slice them that way. (Also, I turn the roll as I slice, so that one side doesn't get flattened in the process.)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPCw_UaLoJ-T2N4YD_b78jvxdKJHXU3yEDKjb7mZWhtygE-WpVEpzR7bi0SzRr0PyC2rd2_TCp2v7VSVngEfxIFDYJMawdLTYxx_U2Z6wbJdNo3DZlstLRGHPBhHHWhWDcPceDQDvw7H4/s1600/IMG_5496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPCw_UaLoJ-T2N4YD_b78jvxdKJHXU3yEDKjb7mZWhtygE-WpVEpzR7bi0SzRr0PyC2rd2_TCp2v7VSVngEfxIFDYJMawdLTYxx_U2Z6wbJdNo3DZlstLRGHPBhHHWhWDcPceDQDvw7H4/s320/IMG_5496.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I decided at the last minute to try sprinkling them with sanding sugar . It's an improvement in taste and looks. I also followed my own advice from last year too and used more pecans (in mine!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwTY88tedTkG7f0IBbMguGsfbnUSb80IHD5AvFKlfe1d26KuMZYP5pbK7KuA4tqvfzxZc6erIiYHsQpAGrYSOdWxGkQAjCgc7c9LRfmXDrHP9NS0LmlDgZJ1srugznmfPnb2Pv25Lu7Ik/s1600/IMG_5866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwTY88tedTkG7f0IBbMguGsfbnUSb80IHD5AvFKlfe1d26KuMZYP5pbK7KuA4tqvfzxZc6erIiYHsQpAGrYSOdWxGkQAjCgc7c9LRfmXDrHP9NS0LmlDgZJ1srugznmfPnb2Pv25Lu7Ik/s320/IMG_5866.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The dough for <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/256456/cinnamon-swirl-cookies" target="_blank">Cinnamon Swirl Cookies</a></b> was ready to be worked today too. I had two rectangles in the fridge. These are rolled out to larger rectangles, then topped with a filling of cinnamon, sugar, pecans and orange zest. I debated whether I wanted to zest or not and kept it in the end.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZtDCUXzTbmRV-JXnLLvwjeNTyXEtxWbmzXzwO8NWnqfIAx6tTOnoy_jhKHn5w4OggvOjtP6UmeSa_UWM3fVtcfPN9_3TC5q7D8Ax99dqRAKo8pXx6uOYuJi-WmD06izszpdhbGJ6fpc/s1600/IMG_5841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEZtDCUXzTbmRV-JXnLLvwjeNTyXEtxWbmzXzwO8NWnqfIAx6tTOnoy_jhKHn5w4OggvOjtP6UmeSa_UWM3fVtcfPN9_3TC5q7D8Ax99dqRAKo8pXx6uOYuJi-WmD06izszpdhbGJ6fpc/s320/IMG_5841.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
The dough was a bit fiddly, so I kept some of the scraps handy for repairs! After I spread out the filling, I rolled the rectangles into logs, patched and sealed them, popped them into paper towel tubes and refrigerated for an hour or so (while I baked Overnights).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCF5e2jPIMLDQmHuW9X6fW-C8Wd-yAR4Am8YUDbvVVqD5FDdnGpeOODHII8XeB6cZcEfoODU5xcByTNT5gb9eMP2oN8Ebiocyrk4KacRFBTrLNncZJ8ZYIybxvyrSgyrlsSmkk-6M3ER4/s1600/IMG_5843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCF5e2jPIMLDQmHuW9X6fW-C8Wd-yAR4Am8YUDbvVVqD5FDdnGpeOODHII8XeB6cZcEfoODU5xcByTNT5gb9eMP2oN8Ebiocyrk4KacRFBTrLNncZJ8ZYIybxvyrSgyrlsSmkk-6M3ER4/s320/IMG_5843.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
They were superb! Especially warm and fresh from the oven. They're better than Snickerdoodles because you get a blast of cinnamon in every single bite. The filling is sweet and soft and buttery; the cookies tender and chewy. I'll have to test them again when they're cooled and ready to be put away.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9UNGMu3s00pOcdQXlbSbtYMBL8ZFp4yfwEgUpvZhZuxqq7LsWOsRQ8u_EKFDC6I6XTkf0MHppTVtzPBbM5rkK9UAE9RDe3_5v4nlnk0Oh27V-hMyPUUBJzxkyAU08opX6I8swk0jurI/s1600/IMG_5844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU9UNGMu3s00pOcdQXlbSbtYMBL8ZFp4yfwEgUpvZhZuxqq7LsWOsRQ8u_EKFDC6I6XTkf0MHppTVtzPBbM5rkK9UAE9RDe3_5v4nlnk0Oh27V-hMyPUUBJzxkyAU08opX6I8swk0jurI/s320/IMG_5844.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*They tasted great about an hour later. And they tasted great even later when I packed them up for the freezer. These are definitely going on the list for next year's Christmas cookies.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicGtzkZ3MMvUSVm0PniMunMsaCgKcjjg_PcBR0HXiFd82CH78emj2gGI-R9of1-vP9kcfOJstapgodLISASWzlLcz6xTvnTFP3MX0lbtWA6WHq92UKxEwq8rJGquj9h-aC9pIGu2eZpZo/s1600/IMG_0253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicGtzkZ3MMvUSVm0PniMunMsaCgKcjjg_PcBR0HXiFd82CH78emj2gGI-R9of1-vP9kcfOJstapgodLISASWzlLcz6xTvnTFP3MX0lbtWA6WHq92UKxEwq8rJGquj9h-aC9pIGu2eZpZo/s320/IMG_0253.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-86718625483486922832013-05-31T13:10:00.003+01:002013-05-31T13:10:41.131+01:002012 - Lemon Cookies Popping With Flavor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEpgKwu-NJGpnwJ45onLjGqWKPPhvxfJyyXOqKgOfW6fjpxC0o0VDy-cz1xBVXsHu_W3qRZv81tQhIAF1NxApAoeHT-gJN-atPKAx6eVi2iNN3RqVzwZRfMn-N_8fxA8G8y4ODMT_lORU/s1600/IMG_5809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEpgKwu-NJGpnwJ45onLjGqWKPPhvxfJyyXOqKgOfW6fjpxC0o0VDy-cz1xBVXsHu_W3qRZv81tQhIAF1NxApAoeHT-gJN-atPKAx6eVi2iNN3RqVzwZRfMn-N_8fxA8G8y4ODMT_lORU/s320/IMG_5809.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I always like to have a citrus cookie to balance out the Christmas cookie tray, so I decided to try <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/356091/lemon-poppy-seed-cookies" target="_blank">Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies</a></b> from Martha Stewart's "Cookies" book this year. These were great to make today because they can go straight into the oven (unlike cookies that need refrigerating first). So while I was baking these, I made the doughs for <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/2006-overnight-cookies-sensation.html" target="_blank">Grandma Baker's Overnight Cookies</a></b> and Martha's <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/256456/cinnamon-swirl-cookies" target="_blank">Cinnamon Swirls</a></b>. The Overnights are roll cookies that will be sliced and baked; and the Swirls dough is a rectangle that will be filled, rolled and sliced tomorrow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnT8-eBiU-NBLHBkpoMTU2lrmYIv_KLv4qp7fncILU6r9a0Cq1LWgkWwLtN57s9HEiVT41RSybUfgAHr7LbxJFUxDYDRnfXrcctaBz_vSqFI2VrM5jq00f7XY8MFWvSHl7X9bNl2zk3E/s1600/IMG_5795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEnT8-eBiU-NBLHBkpoMTU2lrmYIv_KLv4qp7fncILU6r9a0Cq1LWgkWwLtN57s9HEiVT41RSybUfgAHr7LbxJFUxDYDRnfXrcctaBz_vSqFI2VrM5jq00f7XY8MFWvSHl7X9bNl2zk3E/s320/IMG_5795.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Naturally, there are poppy seeds in the dough of the Lemon Poppy Seed Cookies. But you also sprinkle poppy seeds on the top of each cookie. However, once they came out of the oven and cooled, the seeds didn't really stay put. So, when I make these again, I will have to remember to gently press down on the seeds. Otherwise, they're tangy and sweet and the seeds provide a nice crunch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweZdiuOii32X9KfPGvLf1P9AiVX-QyVNDzcw0g8Fou1Jcd5MEIOwP9n_8ts5tPPQPGulnkWJj-v7AV-STBlsQCPGBQgv906GsxcDkCwp4oPHs_LUelwIJPpGEq-2uxEqxS4l6xJlwINs/s1600/IMG_5798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweZdiuOii32X9KfPGvLf1P9AiVX-QyVNDzcw0g8Fou1Jcd5MEIOwP9n_8ts5tPPQPGulnkWJj-v7AV-STBlsQCPGBQgv906GsxcDkCwp4oPHs_LUelwIJPpGEq-2uxEqxS4l6xJlwINs/s320/IMG_5798.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
After mixing up the buttery, lemony dough, I combined sugar with loads of lemon zest to make a luscious coating for the dough balls to roll around in. Then the balls go on a cookie sheet, where they're flattened with a glass.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_SMowhRcME4poQER_dI0X0r-y_w6pYzvvIn8HAswfAJpddGk1Rf-B-QhytAgm7_YVdPbzePzNFGMsmlq-BnZiVvQTVkxNU4B0j_LrcaWvcSMn2mlOHidSc0PBeb41xcJOdcHKeArgd1w/s1600/IMG_5805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_SMowhRcME4poQER_dI0X0r-y_w6pYzvvIn8HAswfAJpddGk1Rf-B-QhytAgm7_YVdPbzePzNFGMsmlq-BnZiVvQTVkxNU4B0j_LrcaWvcSMn2mlOHidSc0PBeb41xcJOdcHKeArgd1w/s320/IMG_5805.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBR2qpXx8SJoGok-rWt-NkRuVQKokuxl6XffeS_QublOdbSk3Sp5xHMf_esBzLPpeO6C-VRux2iJ4d1o9vniIudHc7KvLpkL7RB-t5gTIFZVwpQnhRbxoT4_c1HhVyNzDVlnNgNSVf7Yk/s1600/IMG_5806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBR2qpXx8SJoGok-rWt-NkRuVQKokuxl6XffeS_QublOdbSk3Sp5xHMf_esBzLPpeO6C-VRux2iJ4d1o9vniIudHc7KvLpkL7RB-t5gTIFZVwpQnhRbxoT4_c1HhVyNzDVlnNgNSVf7Yk/s320/IMG_5806.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjNIq8jw41r_Xf6YG6RXNOZQLTA7vsyuo6lyreW_7seROAifhMMvV8c3BGQMg3wZ1D0vrfdbNcLNJpFswKEd0Yp0L1JWsPWPBF1VFqJ3gtJY2f_hGDUdMWl7gNzSWPfcqMfCkbOsJrKL4/s1600/IMG_5807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjNIq8jw41r_Xf6YG6RXNOZQLTA7vsyuo6lyreW_7seROAifhMMvV8c3BGQMg3wZ1D0vrfdbNcLNJpFswKEd0Yp0L1JWsPWPBF1VFqJ3gtJY2f_hGDUdMWl7gNzSWPfcqMfCkbOsJrKL4/s320/IMG_5807.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I haven't made the Cinnamon Swirls yet but I have high hopes. A Snickerdoodle just doesn't cut it with me — they're too mild. I've complained here before about not getting enough cinnamon taste and I've tried about a dozen variations (including another pinwheel sort and a crescent-shaped variety). We'll see tomorrow.<br />
<br />
I decided to go with just a half-batch of Grandma Baker's Overnight Cookies too — they make SO many. "That's why your grandma liked them," Mom said. My dad was one of six kids and they lived (and worked) on a farm, so you could never have too many cookies. But even though I give them away and can eat my fair share, six dozen Overnights will be plenty!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-50555775498412184602013-05-22T12:11:00.000+01:002013-05-22T12:19:38.561+01:002012 - Spill the Beans (or the Dragées)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSBD49gUm8NBwvrp7gCTiN4GxxlFTtVlko4Gyl4lYPcA39PXAhKUoXwILZB4zaTbrC16r2wkOU73me_dNJhT5ivFpggCQU3J1l967r3lJwOCBWoqE05LbEAe4fbc7Fr_T_2gWTaNOFbo/s1600/STARS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSBD49gUm8NBwvrp7gCTiN4GxxlFTtVlko4Gyl4lYPcA39PXAhKUoXwILZB4zaTbrC16r2wkOU73me_dNJhT5ivFpggCQU3J1l967r3lJwOCBWoqE05LbEAe4fbc7Fr_T_2gWTaNOFbo/s320/STARS.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I've been really busy putting Our Cookie Journal online for the past month or so but I managed to get going (in real time!) again today with <b>Vanilla-Bean Butter Cookies</b>. I've made them once before and they were delicious and they're so complementary to the many chocolate varieties that I usually wind up baking.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2N4CMbsFmz_KBxEjqmUTlrkLyIiJdSqXq3vvKQDU5r-IN1oGfKeZ4QLfCFk7XVhYcOtFgxKVYjucgcnQXVuIf82I_zyr0OdC1cX5f0-rCRO6fkEhOUA040lZ9LqEAntdc8Obbed47ELE/s1600/IMG_5759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2N4CMbsFmz_KBxEjqmUTlrkLyIiJdSqXq3vvKQDU5r-IN1oGfKeZ4QLfCFk7XVhYcOtFgxKVYjucgcnQXVuIf82I_zyr0OdC1cX5f0-rCRO6fkEhOUA040lZ9LqEAntdc8Obbed47ELE/s320/IMG_5759.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vanilla beans can be costly — but worth it!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The recipe calls for three vanilla beans (which can cost a lotta beans!). Charlie helped by taking photos of me scraping the seeds from the beans. I drive him crazy because I always want <i>several</i> photos from which to choose.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfXIPDy7UxR9pGtOfMglOpGh06DG9ZtjlIXdRMVmLaCWJMhbklB3O9FoSSsKYZ2aLBP8bBKCev4J0BSo9SVOhqX0QfhyphenhyphenX_O5MM8IV5CwpRV7yQA0ACMi34D7gREyo2vIsJko1waH2xGY/s1600/IMG_5760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfXIPDy7UxR9pGtOfMglOpGh06DG9ZtjlIXdRMVmLaCWJMhbklB3O9FoSSsKYZ2aLBP8bBKCev4J0BSo9SVOhqX0QfhyphenhyphenX_O5MM8IV5CwpRV7yQA0ACMi34D7gREyo2vIsJko1waH2xGY/s320/IMG_5760.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use the back edge of a knife to scrape out the seeds.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The dough had to chill, so I waited until the next day to bake them (after I made a blog entry!). The last time I made these, I used a snowflake cookie cutter, which was too intricate for this delicate dough. It's so precious, you have to keep re-freezing it — after you roll it out, and again after you cut it out.<br />
<br />
But since I used a simple star cutter this time, I skipped the second freezing and popped them straight into the oven. They were fiiiiiine! In fact, I've just eaten two!! It also knocked the baking time down to 10 minutes. So, keep an eye on these until you figure out how long they should bake (when the edges are golden). The recipe yielded 4 1/2 dozen sumptuous stars.<br />
<br />
I also spilled about a million dragées and the sound of them cascading all over the kitchen floor was absolutely sublime!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYYNnJim1HCAZ_5UN7P1hiEKoZWMT7_h3zrfnahs4rVRTFsc4VRP2hk9vCAGmktKcF2b7ChlN9JTukf-lnhk98Atr0MHwLoV5Cm4gBeTxj9s1PX9uJv5aNGsXLBUFtKqTSfflyCkzC1E0/s1600/IMG_5769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYYNnJim1HCAZ_5UN7P1hiEKoZWMT7_h3zrfnahs4rVRTFsc4VRP2hk9vCAGmktKcF2b7ChlN9JTukf-lnhk98Atr0MHwLoV5Cm4gBeTxj9s1PX9uJv5aNGsXLBUFtKqTSfflyCkzC1E0/s320/IMG_5769.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't worry about putting these back in the freezer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
<strong>Vanilla-Bean Butter Cookies</strong></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
1 c butter, softened</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
1 1/2 c powdered sugar</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
3 vanilla beans, split lengthwise</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
1 egg</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
1 tsp vanilla</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
2 1/2 c flour, sifted</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
1/4 tsp salt</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
colored dragées</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
sanding sugar</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine butter and sugar. Scrape in vanilla seeds. Beat on high until fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
Add egg and vanilla; beat to combine.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
Add flour and salt, beat on low till incorporated.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
Divide dough into half; flatten into disks. Wrap in plastic and chill at least 1 hour or overnight.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. On lightly floured surface, roll out disks to 1/4-inch thickness. Place dough on separate baking sheets and chill in freezer for 20 minutes.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
Line baking sheets with parchment. Using 2-inch star-shaped cutter, cut out stars. Place a dragée in center of each star; sprinkle generously with sanding sugar. Freeze until firm, 10 to 20 minutes.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px;">
Bake until golden, rotating sheets halfway through, 18 to 22 minutes. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-65756448807905090132013-05-16T13:02:00.003+01:002013-05-16T13:02:38.012+01:002012 - National Brownie Day<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZgGxVu9K9AFckfuV7hMj2x7yXsT6G0KSj5WKUP2KayE_xyA8C_X-p39G9e-4lZC18pX0r1cBP2ckb1fU0Gzu6C2tsWmjIVwFpMs8c52-MGaFprbLqOeD9uRBOHSWSX02tsn4soJY3rU/s1600/IMG_5470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZgGxVu9K9AFckfuV7hMj2x7yXsT6G0KSj5WKUP2KayE_xyA8C_X-p39G9e-4lZC18pX0r1cBP2ckb1fU0Gzu6C2tsWmjIVwFpMs8c52-MGaFprbLqOeD9uRBOHSWSX02tsn4soJY3rU/s200/IMG_5470.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Six dozen Choc-Oat-Chip in the front and<br />
six dozen Toll House in the back.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; text-align: center;">Oh boy! As if I need another excuse to bake! </span><br />
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
I celebrated National Cookie Day on Dec. 4 by baking <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/heres-what-we-made.html" target="_blank">Choc-Oat Chip Cookies</a> and <a href="http://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/18476/original-nestl%C3%89-toll-house-chocolate-chip-cookies/detail.aspx" target="_blank">Nestle's Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies</a><strong>.</strong> I marked St. Nicholas Day on Dec. 6 by making a batch of <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/happy-st-nicholas-day.html" target="_blank">Dutch Spice Cookies</a><strong>.</strong> And now we have National Brownie Day, which I commemorated in my kitchen in my usual cookie fashion.</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
</div>
The origins of brownies are uncertain and the stories are varied. Some sources credit a Bangor, Maine, housewife who forgot to add leavening to her cake but served the gooey squares anyway to her guests' delight. Wikipedia credits a chef at Chicago's Palmer House Hotel as the creator of modern-day brownies. They featured walnuts and an apricot glaze and are still being made at the hotel, using the original recipe. Still others say that Fannie Merritt Farmer is responsible for the first brownie, which appeared in the 1896 version of her cookbook. However, these were not true brownies, as they were molasses cakes baked individually in tin molds. Whoever is responsible, I thank you!<br />
<br />
There are many varieties of brownies - not to be confused with blondies, which omit the chocolate and use brown sugar. (National Blondies Day is celebrated on Jan. 22.) Popular mix-ins include walnuts, pecans, chocolate chips, coconut and caramel — and the ever-controversial (and illegal) cannabis.<br />
<br />
Brownies, whether they be cakey or fudgy, are classed as cookies — of the bar variety. I have had some difficulties with brownies in my illustrious cookie-baking past, simply because it can be hard to judge when they are done. Over-bake them and they become cracked and hard, losing their aroma and flavor. If they're under-baked, though, they are not chewy and fudgy, they're just icky!<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br style="text-align: center;" />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisR0d2mZc8-QJYN85ssE943Lk0E1GUIudvHEsxSPsuy3AawcOHDFquqSbw-Bx_oXMiiNTmWagxF1UysyFcG4Z8tA5taz3qYec9KakVLTJiHPJ7bll5jmDKRQFmOSY_2wYCTYNSr2zykhU/s1600/IMG_5513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisR0d2mZc8-QJYN85ssE943Lk0E1GUIudvHEsxSPsuy3AawcOHDFquqSbw-Bx_oXMiiNTmWagxF1UysyFcG4Z8tA5taz3qYec9KakVLTJiHPJ7bll5jmDKRQFmOSY_2wYCTYNSr2zykhU/s320/IMG_5513.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Dunkable Brownies are yummy and foolproof.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I have written here about two varieties with which I fared better - <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/1993-bar-none.html" target="_blank">Barb's Brownies</a> and <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/dec-4-1994-brownies-cockaigne.html" target="_blank">Brownies Cockaigne</a><strong>.</strong> But my favorite "brownie" is <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/1996-we-dub-thee-dunkables.html" target="_blank">Baker's One Bowl Chocolate Brownie Cookies</a><strong>,</strong> which we call <b>Dunkable Brownies.</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
I also tried a new version today from a recipe I found at <a href="http://epicurious.com/">epicurious.com</a>. <strong>Brownie Thins</strong> are definitely worth a bash. They are described as tasting like the very top layer of a brownie. They take only 30 minutes and the flavor is outstanding. I like them for Christmas because the recipe calls for chopped pistachios to be sprinkled on top. My only disappointment — they made a measly 18 cookies! The recipe said I would get two dozen. (A personal pet peeve of mine is 'yields' in recipes - they ALWAYS lie!)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoq40mt3yIt0rw9UZIsPAnynb5xpWwXZ5TEyS89rgcm_XKE6ib4U_iswhqvKtvMUZeQPTH0LTqNv94LFWdlc7SjLgqJZ_QimKf9zCqBH9MZ2ZP3YGQxBJ0KjxJGee0SKh2IO362Pj-Zsw/s1600/IMG_5516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoq40mt3yIt0rw9UZIsPAnynb5xpWwXZ5TEyS89rgcm_XKE6ib4U_iswhqvKtvMUZeQPTH0LTqNv94LFWdlc7SjLgqJZ_QimKf9zCqBH9MZ2ZP3YGQxBJ0KjxJGee0SKh2IO362Pj-Zsw/s200/IMG_5516.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
But for frosted, traditional brownies, today I'm using Betty Crocker's boxed mix and I'm not too proud or vain to admit it. They're easy and delicious and my son, Charlie, likes them because they are plain.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
I hope you'll bake some brownies today and I urge you to try one of my cookie versions for fuss-free, perfect brownies. Don't forget the glass of milk!<br />
<br />
<strong>Brownie Thins</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>6 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces<br />
2 oz unsweetened chocolate, chopped<br />
1/2 c sugar<br />
1 large egg<br />
3 Tbsp plus 1 tsp all-purpose flour<br />
1/4 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/4 tsp almond extract<br />
Pinch of coarse kosher salt<br />
Nonstick vegetable oil spray<br />
1/4 c chopped pistachios<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYnEQRxK7nX4iYwNSrwIuQzCleiXB_ESo6CKKO-O6XAkPGk2pZVMnHHePmLf0rnSfSx_Ot4unOJQjWZlqhJXxWbDyKBRqFDVQ0CpGSyBTqg4AH5dwgu4ved8T3G-NBgJJaVaXxZa2J50/s1600/IMG_5566.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrYnEQRxK7nX4iYwNSrwIuQzCleiXB_ESo6CKKO-O6XAkPGk2pZVMnHHePmLf0rnSfSx_Ot4unOJQjWZlqhJXxWbDyKBRqFDVQ0CpGSyBTqg4AH5dwgu4ved8T3G-NBgJJaVaXxZa2J50/s320/IMG_5566.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Brownie Thins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Position rack in lowest third of oven; preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter 2 baking sheets. Place butter and chocolate in medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on medium-high until almost completely melted, about 1 minute. Whisk until smooth. Add sugar and egg; whisk until smooth, about 1 minute. Add flour, both extracts, and salt; stir just to blend. Let batter stand 10 minutes.<br />
<br />
Scoop rounded teaspoonfuls batter onto prepared baking sheets, spacing apart. Spray sheet of plastic wrap lightly with nonstick spray. Place, sprayed side down, over cookies. Using fingers, press each mound into 2 1/2-inch round. Remove plastic wrap. Sprinkle pistachios over rounds. Bake cookies, 1 sheet at a time, until slightly darker at edges and firm in center, about 7 minutes. Cool on sheet 2 minutes. Transfer cookies to rack; cool completely.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<strong>NOTES:</strong> I toasted my pistachios in a skillet for about 5 minutes, stirring them often. Feel free to use walnuts or pecans (or omit nuts altogether).<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQklLPDioEXswM-UgtSZ4ic_HuN7Pehre284Y8OttQgr3SgSQGQY21CawlgiduLAkIKrBmU5-z4Q5yNKdgy7GiQDoduMeJdtekn-LaTJJm1hOjPuPX2CpPX027N6kUhIta3kU7Ys9nQQI/s1600/IMG_5561.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQklLPDioEXswM-UgtSZ4ic_HuN7Pehre284Y8OttQgr3SgSQGQY21CawlgiduLAkIKrBmU5-z4Q5yNKdgy7GiQDoduMeJdtekn-LaTJJm1hOjPuPX2CpPX027N6kUhIta3kU7Ys9nQQI/s320/IMG_5561.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I hate fooling with greased cookie sheets, so I did a practice cookie on parchment paper. Thank goodness it worked just fine. I suggest you do the same, or use a Silpat (non-stick silicone baking mat).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLa4sCFvYMiiRmfMvolRyysTjPfw_IvFKuE8JmsyqP5FTO032ERS8nYaYFcpRhbGj3rs7xo2ef3aoN0uigxMcs7PVtmbKueyDn78VMnrTW_DCU9Y69p4LhhfT4Ups0o7funcRItIHefo/s1600/IMG_5563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzLa4sCFvYMiiRmfMvolRyysTjPfw_IvFKuE8JmsyqP5FTO032ERS8nYaYFcpRhbGj3rs7xo2ef3aoN0uigxMcs7PVtmbKueyDn78VMnrTW_DCU9Y69p4LhhfT4Ups0o7funcRItIHefo/s320/IMG_5563.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I also skipped the shenanigans with the plastic wrap, using the back of my spoon to smooth out the rounds sufficiently. (The plain one is for Charlie to sample).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQ1JQ9fdph31NpR1z630Sdu7hN0dDWl7mGmYE7e0EAOVF2sAESzNuwM2WNwgKK7pcc4LEJNAS3_f9Ne-QbtqAvYyY61qHvHEMKcoP4Kn62_PHuS6mk6CpRssqz-AoMTY-a1fzaoCdjus/s1600/IMG_5564.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQ1JQ9fdph31NpR1z630Sdu7hN0dDWl7mGmYE7e0EAOVF2sAESzNuwM2WNwgKK7pcc4LEJNAS3_f9Ne-QbtqAvYyY61qHvHEMKcoP4Kn62_PHuS6mk6CpRssqz-AoMTY-a1fzaoCdjus/s320/IMG_5564.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I didn't use the almond extract but doubled the vanilla instead. Just a personal preference.<br />
<br />
Unsweetened chocolate is not easy to come by in England unless I order it from <a href="http://skyco.uk.com/">skyco.uk.com</a> (or Mom sends it to me). However, Waitrose recently started stocking <a href="http://williescacao.com/index.php?rid=home" target="_blank">Willie's Cacao</a>, made by the Chocolate Man, Willie Harcourt-Cooze. These barrels of solid artisan chocolate come in several varieties, but I chose Venezuelan Black (100% Rio Caribe Cacao) for its complex nut and coffee notes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BN6jBf8ZTtzm2B07TMpg9fGA5q9u8v4w8I9rZLBrwnutXEbAyIR270GGNXoyGg-O0y3qhj5TXHjtJnJCIvZWi_EyHrxU7_93oVXFPV01s1z14a6rPQ1UtHZSZP9qlJdJhBgYiP_uA6A/s1600/IMG_5523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BN6jBf8ZTtzm2B07TMpg9fGA5q9u8v4w8I9rZLBrwnutXEbAyIR270GGNXoyGg-O0y3qhj5TXHjtJnJCIvZWi_EyHrxU7_93oVXFPV01s1z14a6rPQ1UtHZSZP9qlJdJhBgYiP_uA6A/s320/IMG_5523.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
During a break from baking, I talked to my cousin, Janet, and she promised to send pictures of her Christmas cookies. I can't wait to see them! When I called Mom, she said she couldn't sleep so she wound up making Chocolate Cookies, Chocolate Chip Cookies and something else.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwv6VYeG16ko7owijc1xFEy-csUgKEwSPyft6G6jdr4sCt2_iRO5a52zMrEOixI2-iVXXmbkXENg0n_-Igsv0Be9BQD2DDyz-wh403kGpq_kI2FuOJo1jPNvdGz7cfv8YjWGL6I38KlsA/s1600/IMG_0278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwv6VYeG16ko7owijc1xFEy-csUgKEwSPyft6G6jdr4sCt2_iRO5a52zMrEOixI2-iVXXmbkXENg0n_-Igsv0Be9BQD2DDyz-wh403kGpq_kI2FuOJo1jPNvdGz7cfv8YjWGL6I38KlsA/s320/IMG_0278.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdJTruGyAve-bL31XGRrQKuXMUzY6mWWSofPqjFFQa4nk24x2-_aDFo_Hr2s0kbwDI-9e4VxHf0VUPXLiXpVTGhEJcIU5zwPvGvx5eCUo1i5a5t28OYmbAsC_xlNOJUrDhr4vWBlmYcc/s1600/IMG_0282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdJTruGyAve-bL31XGRrQKuXMUzY6mWWSofPqjFFQa4nk24x2-_aDFo_Hr2s0kbwDI-9e4VxHf0VUPXLiXpVTGhEJcIU5zwPvGvx5eCUo1i5a5t28OYmbAsC_xlNOJUrDhr4vWBlmYcc/s320/IMG_0282.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Janet and Rob's Christmas cookies!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We got a care package yesterday from Mom, Aunt Catherine and Danielle! It was filled with all kinds of goodies: pickles, noodles, Velveeta Mexican, Lifesavers Story Book, more Chex cereals, Christmas candy, Nestle's Quik, albacore tuna and more! Aunt Catherine also sent an ornament for each of us: a dog for Charlie and a taxi for me! How funny! Thanks guys!!!<br />
<br />
<br />
Now I'm off to make another (double) batch of <strong>Brownie Thins.</strong> Mmmmm!<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-78511948921712194712013-05-15T11:03:00.001+01:002013-12-01T14:00:57.325+00:002012 - 'She Bakes Cookies and Hands Them Out'I've been busy baking brownies today because tomorrow (Dec. 8) is <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/its-national-brownie-day.html" target="_blank">National Brownie Day</a></b>! I'm going to blog about it for Our Cookie Journal and I wholeheartedly approve of this national day of observance!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrNpu2PqHJ_r5ZiAOQvvfS8ZrdKXvd1fVSeuPzbQZsPf6zNulv2_VKXbZMtr9NUk7GfaoN-c5FTqnAWHoEHjTZH32pmsZa0j0SfJKSM_gOiacZhTbu9jYoV_pOBJKTwa0klBOWsyW7pU/s1600/dunkables.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwrNpu2PqHJ_r5ZiAOQvvfS8ZrdKXvd1fVSeuPzbQZsPf6zNulv2_VKXbZMtr9NUk7GfaoN-c5FTqnAWHoEHjTZH32pmsZa0j0SfJKSM_gOiacZhTbu9jYoV_pOBJKTwa0klBOWsyW7pU/s1600/dunkables.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A mound of Dunkable Brownies.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
I started with one batch of <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/1996-we-dub-thee-dunkables.html" target="_blank">Dunkable Brownies</a></b> — boy, is that dough good! I toasted the walnuts this time, just for a richer flavor. And I rotated the trays midway, so I could inhale all that chocolate air in there! I yielded 4 1/2 dozen cookies, not counting the irresistible one that I ate.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdn_ahrVGcXOCHQhQJP3oJUVwlSKXySjYpvMUpo8erC1Hi3VyVV9NBP151lDR-L5RZypSoij3gBqlnaYQIi5euWYwOCoSY6pROsIoboXK5gGv3q825OUvSwmeTNKkn69zYvrPqEK8MN4/s1600/IMG_5785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdn_ahrVGcXOCHQhQJP3oJUVwlSKXySjYpvMUpo8erC1Hi3VyVV9NBP151lDR-L5RZypSoij3gBqlnaYQIi5euWYwOCoSY6pROsIoboXK5gGv3q825OUvSwmeTNKkn69zYvrPqEK8MN4/s320/IMG_5785.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toasted walnuts add depth of flavor.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I want to make <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/its-national-brownie-day.html" target="_blank">Brownie Thins</a></b> too, so I had to walk to town for more supplies, including pistachio nuts for the Brownie Thins. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNOV01Y-YHj9xyOWbHdYfwFU6Ilty5jDUi9xMLhwhs08qtSQbfIT21M5xaOqMk3wbAnY8-9b9F0nN-LriLKmofNqshJ2koWg9XRG92G7FcfVXEmgho6qPNGsJWnludiGi7kxE7eZKrb4/s1600/IMG_0257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNOV01Y-YHj9xyOWbHdYfwFU6Ilty5jDUi9xMLhwhs08qtSQbfIT21M5xaOqMk3wbAnY8-9b9F0nN-LriLKmofNqshJ2koWg9XRG92G7FcfVXEmgho6qPNGsJWnludiGi7kxE7eZKrb4/s320/IMG_0257.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I keep cookies and other treats ready to hand out.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On the way, I saw Mark, who usually delivers our care packages via Parcel Force. I gave him a bit of schtick over not having my package yet and he said he'd be around later with it. YAY! I told him he would get his annual package of cookies from me then. I was expecting him about a week ago, when I got my last care package from Mom but another guy brought it, so I gave him the cookies I had ready at the door for Mark. I told Mark about his loss and he laughed and said he told the guy, "You might like going there — she bakes cookies and hands them out!"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzuxaw9gVnHmB49TJ8sCmzXnivPa8hrYEsQzcFWyqkt2v8ck3SSi2Kj2Fkb2GTglEc1GAWaOjE6o9SKb8-KjwH-OP6mFs7kDtEc1NOFI8w0zZSBXJgxRvmeHqLTfJFmk16RMsoWOsXB3E/s1600/IMG_5956.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzuxaw9gVnHmB49TJ8sCmzXnivPa8hrYEsQzcFWyqkt2v8ck3SSi2Kj2Fkb2GTglEc1GAWaOjE6o9SKb8-KjwH-OP6mFs7kDtEc1NOFI8w0zZSBXJgxRvmeHqLTfJFmk16RMsoWOsXB3E/s320/IMG_5956.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mark knows he gets cookies at my house!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-25333061487982548932013-05-11T13:30:00.000+01:002013-05-11T13:30:28.252+01:002012 - St Nicholas Day <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8lwlBHRbPiYKh5C_VnvAe-wuj6xzkRi79CwjlqgbkpbLjJupJocZUiNkSpXPxlNPraTZuIEEgsTsp1xyr4unW7TrBmmioibDZ8IuZOfvDDQL0K4N2Pl3B4EuMtIX2gm_eBNhWH7HpgE/s1600/IMG_5496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8lwlBHRbPiYKh5C_VnvAe-wuj6xzkRi79CwjlqgbkpbLjJupJocZUiNkSpXPxlNPraTZuIEEgsTsp1xyr4unW7TrBmmioibDZ8IuZOfvDDQL0K4N2Pl3B4EuMtIX2gm_eBNhWH7HpgE/s320/IMG_5496.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Speculaas Koekjes can be sliced and baked if you<br />
don't have a St. Nicholas mold.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
With a nod to my German heritage and in honor of St. Nicholas Day (Dec. 6), I made <strong><em>Speculaas Koekjes</em> (Dutch Spice Cookies)</strong> today. While they are traditionally made in the shape of <em>Sinterklaas</em>, I don't have a proper mold yet, so I improvised with a slice 'n' bake version.<br />
<br />
St. Nicholas, as you probably know, is the legendary forerunner of our modern-day Santa Claus. He was the Bishop of Myra (now part of Turkey) and had a reputation for secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him. He is the patron saint of children (but also students, sailors, archers, pawnbrokers and thieves!).</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
I found a recipe at the <a href="http://www.stnicholascenter.org/pages/home/" target="_blank">St. Nicholas Center</a> website, where you can learn more about St. Nicholas and find other recipes for German baked goods associated with this traditionally European holiday.</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
The cookies had a lovely, spicy aroma that was dominated by cloves. It was a nice Christmas-y smell and they were quick to make and called for simple ingredients that I had on hand. </div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZ7M-g1hWfhpCSEXTetGLvJ_zCCmXM_GBDp6xhuS0IFddWyOOQ11XUoIjGqchD0qNutbnJPXoE0uvrwhwAbInfAaYJAAf9gKoqMnFQoIKMJtsAZVwd2qB-vdblLSiHFNiUcbQ6fJIaA0/s1600/IMG_5492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUZ7M-g1hWfhpCSEXTetGLvJ_zCCmXM_GBDp6xhuS0IFddWyOOQ11XUoIjGqchD0qNutbnJPXoE0uvrwhwAbInfAaYJAAf9gKoqMnFQoIKMJtsAZVwd2qB-vdblLSiHFNiUcbQ6fJIaA0/s320/IMG_5492.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Paper towel tubes help slice 'n' bake cookies<br />
retain a circular shape.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
I rolled the crumbly dough into logs, which I placed in paper towel tubes to help retain a circular shape (instead of a flat-sided loaf shape). </div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
After being refrigerated for one hour, the logs were ready for slicing and baking. The recipe yielded 5 1/2 dozen cookies, which I sampled right away. They're crunchy and tasty, more like a tea biscuit than what I would call a classic cookie. Great for dunking, I would think. They're worth a try today - or any day you need a cookie fix! </div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
If you're interested in a St. Nicholas cookie stamp from Rycraft ($9.95, including free recipe booklet), follow this link:</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<a href="http://www.cookiestamp.com/product/413" target="_blank">St. Nicholas Cookie Stamp</a></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<strong><br /></strong></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<strong><br /></strong></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jbCH9TcF__Eo8Vy_MSlHiX_kdyvdH-Y-67V_fMuidFHAMyzfRa1tqfvcl-LBnJ6jWU5-2YztBwtO20rZcrf4SHPtil-Cwr7q5tlBytXM-yCr71caMhYgjbysWNVE8f1xPspbpTigiu8/s1600/IMG_5501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0jbCH9TcF__Eo8Vy_MSlHiX_kdyvdH-Y-67V_fMuidFHAMyzfRa1tqfvcl-LBnJ6jWU5-2YztBwtO20rZcrf4SHPtil-Cwr7q5tlBytXM-yCr71caMhYgjbysWNVE8f1xPspbpTigiu8/s320/IMG_5501.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">The finished product is crispy and delicious.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<strong>St. Nick Cookies</strong></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
2 cups brown sugar</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
1 ½ cups butter or hard margarine</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
3 ½ cups flour</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
1 egg, beaten</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
1 tsp salt, scant</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
1 teaspoon baking powder</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
1 teaspoon cinnamon</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
¾ teaspoon cloves</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
½ teaspoon nutmeg</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
½ teaspoon allspice</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
½ teaspoon ginger</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
Cream butter and sugar. Add remaining ingredients and mix. Press well-chilled dough into cookie boards (flour mold well, press dough in with fingers, level it off, then turn the board over and bang one end on the counter so the cookie drops out).* Place on cookie sheet and bake at 350º F. for 10 to 12 minutes. Store in sealed container to retain crispness.</div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">
*Or shape into cylinder of desired size and chill thoroughly in plastic wrap or waxed paper. Slice and bake, as above.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55SkrmnT_zPr2vqTs_DaktOhdLbZljlmmRUSzJVfpnPx-hv6Whtg6KO8QylbL_8Xi5rXn_aNtdMY6FtGSMzvHcdgG2S-LOkqxqEbXwdXHSBA-iP5cCyOWbDUu3RcY6QQzBLU5pcZ_Rro/s1600/IMG_5499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55SkrmnT_zPr2vqTs_DaktOhdLbZljlmmRUSzJVfpnPx-hv6Whtg6KO8QylbL_8Xi5rXn_aNtdMY6FtGSMzvHcdgG2S-LOkqxqEbXwdXHSBA-iP5cCyOWbDUu3RcY6QQzBLU5pcZ_Rro/s320/IMG_5499.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; font-family: Times; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">St. Nicholas fills shoes with coins and treats on Dec. 6. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
<div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-11241625278426570602013-05-08T14:11:00.001+01:002013-05-08T14:11:59.723+01:002012 - Decisions, DecisionsAs usual, I don't have a plan. You'd think with this journal I would have everything mapped out and that I would know what I want to bake each Christmas season but life rarely works out that way. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, I wasn't quite sure what to make. Ever since I started transcribing <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/this-book-belongs-to.html" target="_blank"><b>Our Cookie Journal</b></a>, I have had a hankering for <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/1993-whoopie.html" target="_blank"><b>Whoopie Pies</b></a>. I haven't made them in years and a chocolate sandwich filled with cream sounds pretty good right now. Those call for buttermilk, though, and I really don't feel like walking to town for that. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then I decided to make some scrumptious <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/12/1996-we-dub-thee-dunkables.html" target="_blank"><b>Dunkable Brownies</b></a> — one of my perennial favorites. Another inventory check found my cupboard lacking again! I need walnuts. I have some, but they expired in May. Of 2011!! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNAzCPmea73QGRxGOyWR8G4S7CXMECuM29Z5pND4HbjwvgoIOBECcvz0gs4pVfferwmEBOnkL_gyRFKYI_IBjQ63NfWKiRZHGTDqV5MP7ee5etMnHmBcqWwbA5iBnlYVQc8d5AReWhtw0/s1600/IMG_3276.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNAzCPmea73QGRxGOyWR8G4S7CXMECuM29Z5pND4HbjwvgoIOBECcvz0gs4pVfferwmEBOnkL_gyRFKYI_IBjQ63NfWKiRZHGTDqV5MP7ee5etMnHmBcqWwbA5iBnlYVQc8d5AReWhtw0/s320/IMG_3276.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I knew that if I made <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/2004-hedgehog-cookies.html" target="_blank">Hedgehog Cookies</a></b> I would be sure to have all the ingredients because they are Charlie's yearlong favorite. What's more, since I was flush with chocolate chips and pecans, I decided to make <b><a href="http://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/18476/Original-NESTL%C3%89-TOLL-HOUSE-Chocolate-Chip-Cookies/detail.aspx" target="_blank">Nestle's Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies</a></b> too. I like Charlie's cookies, but I insist on my favorites at Christmas. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I wound up with 6 1/2 dozen for me and 6 3/4 dozen for him. That should hold us for a while!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPuz1NmsMhKWOpfJRdLIaPBCTLa6A3cefsg4iveZGOT6wikvMPurAR0yfEOaHXeWu9fTimWcGBw4FH3DhRYWklv7BlKpvuXsxHfeEoaMllOPNeSKD4X_irJAnvxnmJnQOwEUsx7Lks2s/s1600/IMG_3275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPuz1NmsMhKWOpfJRdLIaPBCTLa6A3cefsg4iveZGOT6wikvMPurAR0yfEOaHXeWu9fTimWcGBw4FH3DhRYWklv7BlKpvuXsxHfeEoaMllOPNeSKD4X_irJAnvxnmJnQOwEUsx7Lks2s/s320/IMG_3275.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-24125422831328741102013-05-06T15:05:00.000+01:002013-05-08T14:39:19.953+01:002012 - Muffin MadnessI walked into town yesterday (Dec. 2) because I needed some baking supplies — flour, fresh baking powder, etc. I also bought a small poinsettia, white hyacinths and a chocolate advent calendar for Charlie from Thornton's. I don't even have to say his name; they know us!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRa4thFlVt9pEmVd1Wdtp8cxVbpZq4N1LdJsBJJqq_1CcWrqdD84ejPQvRMXjWPTU6jusO4iD_E7BAznCHYcycBc_LzMFD5flLGWfrVlR4A8BayS4Ro3qZHEEeR2JzLDS44OI-5JvqzM/s1600/IMG_5448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQRa4thFlVt9pEmVd1Wdtp8cxVbpZq4N1LdJsBJJqq_1CcWrqdD84ejPQvRMXjWPTU6jusO4iD_E7BAznCHYcycBc_LzMFD5flLGWfrVlR4A8BayS4Ro3qZHEEeR2JzLDS44OI-5JvqzM/s320/IMG_5448.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="text-align: center;">Today, I decided to make some </span><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/1995-mom-dads-pumpkin-bread.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Pumpkin Bread</a><span style="text-align: center;"> muffins. Mom sent me two aluminum pans for making mini-muffins! I tested six in Christmas liners because I wasn't sure if they'd stick or not. I usually don't use them but I didn't want to have to keep washing the pans between every batch. They didn't stick, thankfully, so I've forged ahead with the liners. They take only 15 minutes this way too.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5L-uxzSBeaep3qyhJQ3lHqlGD88HYis4K3AyMIiz8DZ8S4Z58tt4J0FmqlS-aM8Vit1i-IGZxzVzy_Tg0Yc3JyNckNpaklSzEsTyiItpsl4eV6xhemk28zQ48lf0XLmANJCaVfPLz1wI/s1600/IMG_5450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5L-uxzSBeaep3qyhJQ3lHqlGD88HYis4K3AyMIiz8DZ8S4Z58tt4J0FmqlS-aM8Vit1i-IGZxzVzy_Tg0Yc3JyNckNpaklSzEsTyiItpsl4eV6xhemk28zQ48lf0XLmANJCaVfPLz1wI/s320/IMG_5450.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<br />
Meanwhile, I've been listing CDs on eBay so I'll have some extra cash for Christmas presents. And, of course, I've been busy posting entries to Our Cookie Journal on my blog.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWrJo7VzPt1AI5aRMmqM4Fwea5A277lqNjbZaRat-MEVoE-6t3Ze47HIoPTC_mbzE4UWZoAJp_GNMqk5mO0qy9-oO9SfwWx87LPpfIBBGl25JZDDqwyI4OsoUZtY0byAOa6BsYGzzZY9A/s1600/IMG_5451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWrJo7VzPt1AI5aRMmqM4Fwea5A277lqNjbZaRat-MEVoE-6t3Ze47HIoPTC_mbzE4UWZoAJp_GNMqk5mO0qy9-oO9SfwWx87LPpfIBBGl25JZDDqwyI4OsoUZtY0byAOa6BsYGzzZY9A/s320/IMG_5451.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-23599050088582272592013-05-01T12:05:00.001+01:002013-05-01T12:05:47.757+01:002012 - The Icing on the Cookie<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRWBTE1uz8ak7ehp9KHQFX9I5wlTHjXUQT8boJIqYYlqJBzFTPRtt6uJcGHJma7H2SV_duwvobtdKf_CkpEJqi-6Y70AFRpkThfDi1zl6q7PtkZS4L9nHmg3z0lkqmbM8q5xw1MaVUtk/s1600/IMG_6008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRWBTE1uz8ak7ehp9KHQFX9I5wlTHjXUQT8boJIqYYlqJBzFTPRtt6uJcGHJma7H2SV_duwvobtdKf_CkpEJqi-6Y70AFRpkThfDi1zl6q7PtkZS4L9nHmg3z0lkqmbM8q5xw1MaVUtk/s320/IMG_6008.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Charlie's snowman sweater that I ordered on eBay came today! It's so cute on him. I bought myself some one-piece Christmas jammies too — covered in Santas! <div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKd291q1F5UeGwDRBNYKt5xzMuhyphenhyphenm3zG7z6E-MrtbVT3vkb5sJbnC__rkhqM-OHVFo4qdroKFJQpKmBlbywf8M0ZZqCk92zoy_FYMaSstTi2P7MRE12JniFzFhFI5QDnyU8wakjSvUSE/s1600/IMG_5393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihKd291q1F5UeGwDRBNYKt5xzMuhyphenhyphenm3zG7z6E-MrtbVT3vkb5sJbnC__rkhqM-OHVFo4qdroKFJQpKmBlbywf8M0ZZqCk92zoy_FYMaSstTi2P7MRE12JniFzFhFI5QDnyU8wakjSvUSE/s320/IMG_5393.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I made a giant batch of Royal Icing for the <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/342228/sugar-cookie-cutouts" target="_blank">Sugar Cookies</a> at about 10:30 a.m. I didn't use the one from Martha Stewart this time because she weighs the powdered sugar and I wanted to measure it in cups. I get so weary with conversions. I just copied something off the Internet — it's a fairly common recipe. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpujaN-Uab3iv88zMFTHuiFidBXP88fUJX1qSETACqUKD8vSpl_6sSvmZs7fH9kVIa8ah9RUIy44VMwIIkEpIVMcpPHiU-R7hDj6FdLiJX_l3zp_Ar7ZKfXsCBAbASw6OCXXOTMNqhaJg/s1600/IMG_5414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpujaN-Uab3iv88zMFTHuiFidBXP88fUJX1qSETACqUKD8vSpl_6sSvmZs7fH9kVIa8ah9RUIy44VMwIIkEpIVMcpPHiU-R7hDj6FdLiJX_l3zp_Ar7ZKfXsCBAbASw6OCXXOTMNqhaJg/s320/IMG_5414.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5-m1E0WPVGpf6_X_M5T8JkfVw23u0VNbJJCcqisvf1wvb7t8NOh6QMCYqUsvT21it7OmhP2Bvo__0NPlo8ndX6ztyMWe5tmRix0S_0gP8xKOJnvEgJldXkRvke1YpnmZIdDrAi9J4l7o/s1600/IMG_5411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5-m1E0WPVGpf6_X_M5T8JkfVw23u0VNbJJCcqisvf1wvb7t8NOh6QMCYqUsvT21it7OmhP2Bvo__0NPlo8ndX6ztyMWe5tmRix0S_0gP8xKOJnvEgJldXkRvke1YpnmZIdDrAi9J4l7o/s320/IMG_5411.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Before I started, I hauled out all of my decorations and supplies. Then I made a list of each cookie shape and matched them to the colors I wanted to use on them. That way, I can do all of one color in one go, and not waste time or icing. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bFM6Jz_7__SnZvvX1gdNP5f8RbGMnPhhmX2a6dircVlp8vm_YcKovj3J_wC_79mOr88KLIedWbvKh7QYzhpBVmknzvBmEW3PzecVdf09Zg2LFt1nKaFPevVzYd5_az__J78x_-gGeCo/s1600/IMG_5418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bFM6Jz_7__SnZvvX1gdNP5f8RbGMnPhhmX2a6dircVlp8vm_YcKovj3J_wC_79mOr88KLIedWbvKh7QYzhpBVmknzvBmEW3PzecVdf09Zg2LFt1nKaFPevVzYd5_az__J78x_-gGeCo/s320/IMG_5418.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So I started with white, obviously. Then did all the red. I outlined first, then did the flooding. I made a bit of a mess with the colored sugars too, as usual! I had to take a break at 4:30 to go to the post office and mail out some eBay stuff (and another Christmas book for my nephew, James). Then I met Charlie on his walk home from school. Once we got home, I made pizzas and called it a day with the cookies. I'll finish up tomorrow.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mfKufZ7fRXoRmOEJg3ZtUEv0VaB1Nz_-gXUgK1cRSvtizzaZnrj4_xYmCfDSV6qS2_raolqjzfTw6i9CxbFoy9JpO6z0slDIq_boOlJpnc7cRVDW4TWsxA6bAd9e17gMqHggHlTc9Is/s1600/IMG_5419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mfKufZ7fRXoRmOEJg3ZtUEv0VaB1Nz_-gXUgK1cRSvtizzaZnrj4_xYmCfDSV6qS2_raolqjzfTw6i9CxbFoy9JpO6z0slDIq_boOlJpnc7cRVDW4TWsxA6bAd9e17gMqHggHlTc9Is/s320/IMG_5419.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyw-UXc8vos469kGwUnneX1cIU_Ur0_nwn4CNpTMAygt_CPcl8GVxiTNY-zSz0c-MbvkaxrqK01IfUDaj8BJdino9xWH7H6I9GRP8BGWBaLO49OiKMAJ3Wpgy_oCi8yZZelX3OWgMVeac/s1600/IMG_5422.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyw-UXc8vos469kGwUnneX1cIU_Ur0_nwn4CNpTMAygt_CPcl8GVxiTNY-zSz0c-MbvkaxrqK01IfUDaj8BJdino9xWH7H6I9GRP8BGWBaLO49OiKMAJ3Wpgy_oCi8yZZelX3OWgMVeac/s320/IMG_5422.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-U9Kugz4uj2J73URd4kgujYHQZ4tt8Yy6BXLjk353yfh2hh1HTP9mgKgrHZUsQHj3W9mF0YmB7XEgNH911rR-Dcf4K9fAwzP6tLIKe-M6tdiEE3xx53aLdhkhcnV55yomcoZ1pt5dXoU/s1600/IMG_5423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-U9Kugz4uj2J73URd4kgujYHQZ4tt8Yy6BXLjk353yfh2hh1HTP9mgKgrHZUsQHj3W9mF0YmB7XEgNH911rR-Dcf4K9fAwzP6tLIKe-M6tdiEE3xx53aLdhkhcnV55yomcoZ1pt5dXoU/s320/IMG_5423.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKAvokKYqbXzkJYPYuXKggjAyaFi6aAoWkxUFiieq_50cG-e86VuD8M0LTlrIhwLk-ou85JzhBj-EaS9UvXvFfv14GxI-T-ISSpE0m0IsZME0IB026xZg4MxvFZX6uImJDH4fIO3zfaI/s1600/IMG_5424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBKAvokKYqbXzkJYPYuXKggjAyaFi6aAoWkxUFiieq_50cG-e86VuD8M0LTlrIhwLk-ou85JzhBj-EaS9UvXvFfv14GxI-T-ISSpE0m0IsZME0IB026xZg4MxvFZX6uImJDH4fIO3zfaI/s320/IMG_5424.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-oQ4R1Q2B8o05Ib6Y-s0M3VUwJXdFYW3XHQwL-mJpe_lszf_zoU_D-w3FEDrUq9MCGrFby8uYr75w2WL_ZEgdZ9Z5CsktcPqDELfDZp7A1p9aYmxVbrKbCrMhlvKSV_Ia6zDU5j45YQ/s1600/IMG_5430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_-oQ4R1Q2B8o05Ib6Y-s0M3VUwJXdFYW3XHQwL-mJpe_lszf_zoU_D-w3FEDrUq9MCGrFby8uYr75w2WL_ZEgdZ9Z5CsktcPqDELfDZp7A1p9aYmxVbrKbCrMhlvKSV_Ia6zDU5j45YQ/s320/IMG_5430.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
•</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's the last day of November and I spent most of it frosting Sugar Cookies. I started at 10:30 and just finished at 4:30 (it's like a job, with banker's hours!). I finished them all though and now my back is aching a bit. It was worth it though and I'm glad I started with these (technically). I took lots of photos throughout and I hope I can remember to review before I start next year!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjTz6jiDsXqymFdYeRFiGPLv8mN0RKA_TnzS9lsw1GopcpFX0e1QF9P0d3HnWDwB8Y7D2cMA25ZZAfhhUAlzDYGjJMlYvZ19oAbWY1cmPAea7oD_37IvUf5mTP8zqa0LsCS7qE0mrU1Q/s1600/IMG_5443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjTz6jiDsXqymFdYeRFiGPLv8mN0RKA_TnzS9lsw1GopcpFX0e1QF9P0d3HnWDwB8Y7D2cMA25ZZAfhhUAlzDYGjJMlYvZ19oAbWY1cmPAea7oD_37IvUf5mTP8zqa0LsCS7qE0mrU1Q/s320/IMG_5443.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcm7t6Cdj28vtcGUX8qrvnsxzo5Bqgfsn6ReOrg2nBBrzXWP7EN8YJ9TuHKVRur8A4jPdlgCn-f4qf13K7TnXLdQgn6nLsM9aXGQ1VTyvvfu3fQKG803weZkYbd5tfKVLKa_OfP2jSgxw/s1600/IMG_5434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcm7t6Cdj28vtcGUX8qrvnsxzo5Bqgfsn6ReOrg2nBBrzXWP7EN8YJ9TuHKVRur8A4jPdlgCn-f4qf13K7TnXLdQgn6nLsM9aXGQ1VTyvvfu3fQKG803weZkYbd5tfKVLKa_OfP2jSgxw/s320/IMG_5434.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
I made snowmen with gold buttons and melted chocolate chip eyes; blue, red and green ornaments with edible sugar flakes; red-and-white candy canes; Christmas trees with with sprinkles and dragées; blue stars with edible glitter; yellow stars with edible gold stars; and my favorites: red, white and green JOYs with coordinating sugars. They're all really cute and I'm so proud of them! I can't wait to share them!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4W1Auhgc-XVQ9mPF8TKoB-5KykheT83I8kmFbVVeevP5sluzEll9AXDwmxwklxBpxXyVKl_PxCtYEkQuQDDvWlhr3fFVqyHH8rgfiyrCMNqjrjYs0Aqu5oS5hSVf6liLW5ytdxQOCpCc/s1600/IMG_5436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4W1Auhgc-XVQ9mPF8TKoB-5KykheT83I8kmFbVVeevP5sluzEll9AXDwmxwklxBpxXyVKl_PxCtYEkQuQDDvWlhr3fFVqyHH8rgfiyrCMNqjrjYs0Aqu5oS5hSVf6liLW5ytdxQOCpCc/s320/IMG_5436.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidaOvrrQawXIU9Ls_fnxils0ZrChEcZk79f2_mSO-S-t_TSdOCREsIWw8_qzpasefxQlKjn50QTKGzNvtsVPHSBAumF1MIqETej4Z5GYhR27gwr-RFRag7ijddOkZte_Tcg6_RbzVjaKU/s1600/IMG_5438.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidaOvrrQawXIU9Ls_fnxils0ZrChEcZk79f2_mSO-S-t_TSdOCREsIWw8_qzpasefxQlKjn50QTKGzNvtsVPHSBAumF1MIqETej4Z5GYhR27gwr-RFRag7ijddOkZte_Tcg6_RbzVjaKU/s320/IMG_5438.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVVGT2O1ypDLn0OLBOJIHUAzfgNWj-ngRvXSEfzQDWoNvcIv7llVuzv8eEeT6VVBM1iNdxdAYJFZrmSS8fwjRfSZ67-nzztK8fjEXRCUTkgZFw9dOlEbHXvIrGj-zorksjqSxhvJdQ18/s1600/IMG_5442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVVGT2O1ypDLn0OLBOJIHUAzfgNWj-ngRvXSEfzQDWoNvcIv7llVuzv8eEeT6VVBM1iNdxdAYJFZrmSS8fwjRfSZ67-nzztK8fjEXRCUTkgZFw9dOlEbHXvIrGj-zorksjqSxhvJdQ18/s320/IMG_5442.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-25992071223393775162013-04-28T09:13:00.001+01:002013-04-28T09:18:01.419+01:002012 - I'm on a Roll!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmxkznPA3_yITILENxJq0ZalPtWV3Z3UOq8H0klQBSkzBS05P7CZBNVsL-rCllGl34TgfIuSaPEnudxXcQI9AxlZZmcfJtM0rPs2v2zZ-b5xdKedydrNG8M3FdTLfLmraazgXp1D0ZJ5A/s1600/IMG_5379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmxkznPA3_yITILENxJq0ZalPtWV3Z3UOq8H0klQBSkzBS05P7CZBNVsL-rCllGl34TgfIuSaPEnudxXcQI9AxlZZmcfJtM0rPs2v2zZ-b5xdKedydrNG8M3FdTLfLmraazgXp1D0ZJ5A/s320/IMG_5379.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I started to roll out the <b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/342228/sugar-cookie-cutouts" target="_blank">Sugar Cookies</a></b> this morning at 11 and just finished baking them (it's nearly 4 p.m. on Nov. 27). I made stars, trees, snowmen, canes, ornaments and JOYs (these are new and I love them!). I had four cookie sheets, so I was able to keep way ahead — I had two in the freezer, one in the oven and one on standby. I wound up with nearly 14 dozen (there were a few delicious casualties).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVbfMxmzvPJxsgqh7PLjCWXwjGHFaU88wCXSRJA718LaSV85ZFiytx4PO0jw9bGE06GZRgZhLdq-DXxRWdB-wscvWfjN7A3pW1_2Dp6kTFhWFdSlQez9r2_UxKxGAck2NEhp8BxWv_ow/s1600/IMG_5384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVbfMxmzvPJxsgqh7PLjCWXwjGHFaU88wCXSRJA718LaSV85ZFiytx4PO0jw9bGE06GZRgZhLdq-DXxRWdB-wscvWfjN7A3pW1_2Dp6kTFhWFdSlQez9r2_UxKxGAck2NEhp8BxWv_ow/s320/IMG_5384.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I also made 22 trees with sprinkles on them (not to be frosted) for Charlie to take in his lunchbox this week. I made four look like bloody arrowheads to mimic the ones that Marge Simpson made for Bart by putting red sprinkles on the tops of the trees. He loved them! The rest will be frosted and decorated tomorrow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnZQO9rCYU1FB7Ricz7g4uY4nSKXKl-bIANzbUqvsZ_wUifxIktZyFFLU54r3nIk44WPhEEsRLwpXg52wt2KI2COexatCTqA0hOLS7M7tu1t1XKoYeCt1D9ILCIDcNE9OVDff2O5LFg0/s1600/IMG_5381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpnZQO9rCYU1FB7Ricz7g4uY4nSKXKl-bIANzbUqvsZ_wUifxIktZyFFLU54r3nIk44WPhEEsRLwpXg52wt2KI2COexatCTqA0hOLS7M7tu1t1XKoYeCt1D9ILCIDcNE9OVDff2O5LFg0/s320/IMG_5381.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
While I was baking, I also made pizza dough and got out the Christmas linens (potholders, tea towels, tablecloth, aprons, etc.) and a few decorations to greet Charlie when he comes home from school.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82pYVbsco_HcM7vef531eed6bmFgtxHDGIF8OI2rBsHyHcz4VxvmubkBp_PCZrDCXd3-IrbdosW58sy3BmfA2WxPz4BRLZI4cnysF5F1mNogENkVgY5sMj7f_tfldBciGLpzwWCvIdg8/s1600/IMG_5386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82pYVbsco_HcM7vef531eed6bmFgtxHDGIF8OI2rBsHyHcz4VxvmubkBp_PCZrDCXd3-IrbdosW58sy3BmfA2WxPz4BRLZI4cnysF5F1mNogENkVgY5sMj7f_tfldBciGLpzwWCvIdg8/s320/IMG_5386.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Mom's care package came about 15 minutes ago! YIPPEE! She's soooo cute, the way she puts little surprises in there. Whether it's a sauce mix, a pickle in a bag or a Christmas ornament — she always tickles me with something special. Now I'm off to make a glorious batch of <b><a href="http://www.chex.com/Recipes/RecipeView.aspx?RecipeId=6709" target="_blank">Chex Party Mix</a></b> with the cereals she sent — whoohoo!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdgShJ9iqxgM70h1ksvUkvY8H9kwWRpRNc8e39aBXY78xqekp-N7928jqMLspODrnpoQSEE7vOT7od0lt-NHKToP8WeIDLZvgl6ypOY0LB2qaPGJdWDTCPa4lS6mBumv2H47SxqWob7s/s1600/IMG_5389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdgShJ9iqxgM70h1ksvUkvY8H9kwWRpRNc8e39aBXY78xqekp-N7928jqMLspODrnpoQSEE7vOT7od0lt-NHKToP8WeIDLZvgl6ypOY0LB2qaPGJdWDTCPa4lS6mBumv2H47SxqWob7s/s320/IMG_5389.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
•<br />
<br />
I made three batches of Chex Mix! Fortunately, I had pecans and cashews on hand because I knew the package was coming. I made one batch for Charlie with no pretzels or nuts (otherwise he picks over them and leaves the mix grossly unbalanced!). But I caught him picking over the rice squares in his own batch! Ridiculous! Mom's sending more. Good thing — you only get three batches from three boxes. I could eat it every single day. Yummm! I also used celery salt this time (1/4 teaspoon) after researching Chex Mix for Our Cookie Journal. The old recipe called for it but the current one asks for seasoned salt, garlic powder and onion powder. I like celery salt, so I used it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGEFYsf9_OMBVb4lCehlGBqWXFjjtLz_Us3Cr1GcWNyogMZGpm1qYA9pklS0KfNiBbZHhcYCsRczXScqjqW17OvX5i4tuOsDMGyarcp3Q026rs1LLQQkT14lnz_lhLxBUxp1R6L3aunI/s1600/IMG_3262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPGEFYsf9_OMBVb4lCehlGBqWXFjjtLz_Us3Cr1GcWNyogMZGpm1qYA9pklS0KfNiBbZHhcYCsRczXScqjqW17OvX5i4tuOsDMGyarcp3Q026rs1LLQQkT14lnz_lhLxBUxp1R6L3aunI/s320/IMG_3262.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-12631601542579394762013-04-24T11:30:00.004+01:002013-04-24T11:30:55.585+01:002012 - Let's Get This Party StartedAfter two days of <i>thinking</i> about making <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/342228/sugar-cookie-cutouts" target="_blank"><b>Sugar Cookies</b></a>, it's happening today (Nov. 26)! I thought about using a different recipe this year (for no specific reason except to mix it up a bit) but I wound up going with Martha Stewart's trusty recipe again. It's so easy and reliable. A double batch nearly doesn't fit in the KitchenAid mixer bowl, though. And whenever I add flour now, it reminds me of Charlie's song: "<a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/2007-let-it-dough.html" target="_blank">Let it Dough</a>!"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-J7dmtZoO6gIEyp7-N9kZhiRxAZRzV39Li3_SfoKtFTq4Tun8VdQNgl84TQNP-s_EYB4Y6B3ndcB3bCo34PNjZDt8RagVa3BmyaUnuSS3yKl8kRi3Ew_zWc4NIkYMtGfbFj7fRSj48LM/s1600/IMG_5376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-J7dmtZoO6gIEyp7-N9kZhiRxAZRzV39Li3_SfoKtFTq4Tun8VdQNgl84TQNP-s_EYB4Y6B3ndcB3bCo34PNjZDt8RagVa3BmyaUnuSS3yKl8kRi3Ew_zWc4NIkYMtGfbFj7fRSj48LM/s320/IMG_5376.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I now have two rectangles of dough ready to roll. While it chills in the fridge, though, I've been busy on the Internet with <a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/this-book-belongs-to.html" target="_blank">Our Cookie Journal</a>; selling CDs on eBay (I've gone completely digital); and waiting eagerly for a care package from Mom.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcYDdwQA8LK8dd4ex_1lKXx8I7MixdtHg24uAhaI2rLLMFA1A9V647wT3kxCZx5eUd6HtzqH9my4w9p6yGBReux-wkRtnRZwtr42Uv46ox66zZhzO1ECcL7Z5qHYUnm-ygSIrycrpU5c/s1600/IMG_5375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCcYDdwQA8LK8dd4ex_1lKXx8I7MixdtHg24uAhaI2rLLMFA1A9V647wT3kxCZx5eUd6HtzqH9my4w9p6yGBReux-wkRtnRZwtr42Uv46ox66zZhzO1ECcL7Z5qHYUnm-ygSIrycrpU5c/s320/IMG_5375.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
I had to go to the dentist today too (no cavities!) and I stopped off at <a href="http://www.thecreativecookshop.co.uk/welcome" target="_blank">The Creative Cook Shop</a> in the town square for some decorating supplies. I bought red and green glitter, which I haven't used yet. I have had colored sugars and sprinkles but I can't wait to try this edible glitter. While I was there, I picked up some snowman cellophane bags to put cookies in for gifts. There were some cute Santa cupcake cases and a set of snowflake cookie cutters that I couldn't resist too! Then I popped by Waitrose and bought more flour, sugar eggs (£3 a dozen!!), brown sugar and cinnamon.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-12702886299107268452013-04-19T15:55:00.001+01:002013-04-19T15:55:36.161+01:002012 - Loafing Around? Make Some Pumpkin Bread!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7SqZzJexSbEdxF8kUxIdMYf1LvLQpSYJnSH4EU6eZo95j5D6vX2g3RQOSMcPQXiKNLBjOOSXag52M_Cqmvzh6nOl20AH-AJc2WEOEcMndkgJD4UsTV3xvpGdWIazDWAPHmoaLa816_w0/s1600/IMG_5323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7SqZzJexSbEdxF8kUxIdMYf1LvLQpSYJnSH4EU6eZo95j5D6vX2g3RQOSMcPQXiKNLBjOOSXag52M_Cqmvzh6nOl20AH-AJc2WEOEcMndkgJD4UsTV3xvpGdWIazDWAPHmoaLa816_w0/s320/IMG_5323.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I'm going to make more <b><a href="http://ourcookiejournal.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/1995-mom-dads-pumpkin-bread.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Bread</a></b> as soon as Neil gets back with more eggs and pecans. I made only one batch so far, yielding four generous loaves. There was a gorgeous aroma filling the house. It was so irresistible that I had three slices as soon as I could! I enrobed the rest in aluminum foil and popped them in the freezer. They will be enjoyed over the next few weeks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6HFXg1ZyB6L3mWgTn5FcEvipc4K2N5qlaP50DAF1h3rX2w2Lq385iNawEjM64_uCN55gQcKRkVPCEQF8DYCAv6wAxWUmfsm1jkALmee5tnDQZzw21NC9X1HordmD8GCx1SUGwqjCX23E/s1600/IMG_5324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6HFXg1ZyB6L3mWgTn5FcEvipc4K2N5qlaP50DAF1h3rX2w2Lq385iNawEjM64_uCN55gQcKRkVPCEQF8DYCAv6wAxWUmfsm1jkALmee5tnDQZzw21NC9X1HordmD8GCx1SUGwqjCX23E/s320/IMG_5324.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Mom said all the cereals (for the <b><a href="http://www.chex.com/Recipes/RecipeView.aspx?RecipeId=6709" target="_blank">Chex Party Mix</a></b>) won't fit in one box with everything else that I requested, so she's sending one care package today (Nov. 20) and the rest next Thursday. I'm not at all disappointed — this will stretch out the happiness! Only two days till Turkey time!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1650614324366459653.post-25062267575401818682013-04-17T11:53:00.000+01:002013-04-17T11:53:03.857+01:002012 - In the Christmas Spirit Already<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNgmlOg4Mib8T-Uiy6dIThcvqJarWq-G4E6xF4WJQUZLLacL523sOlBzFNYz7Bbq4rLjjsgFo1DxKzQ0AqRAHUhF3WU8X7rGj4NLrT9iPenOIKvc-6aPOuDM51x9BYJY5HIa206-97D0/s1600/IMG_3263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGNgmlOg4Mib8T-Uiy6dIThcvqJarWq-G4E6xF4WJQUZLLacL523sOlBzFNYz7Bbq4rLjjsgFo1DxKzQ0AqRAHUhF3WU8X7rGj4NLrT9iPenOIKvc-6aPOuDM51x9BYJY5HIa206-97D0/s320/IMG_3263.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<br />
It's only Nov. 15 but I sent some money to Mom via PayPal so she can send me a care package before Thanksgiving — I neeeed Chex Party Mix before Thanksgiving.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJCt0oXxSVvwIdSKqp6WWrlS1wUmsCXBdMz2eb-9jknc68bQu7IIac5uVSgzz3xunlphkiSvtepdnxG6QBSejsfnG8qm4OZubnJ-mZvQk-JHcnUTT1sB44RUXp7Bi510ZQsARJ1RISvmM/s1600/IMG_5275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJCt0oXxSVvwIdSKqp6WWrlS1wUmsCXBdMz2eb-9jknc68bQu7IIac5uVSgzz3xunlphkiSvtepdnxG6QBSejsfnG8qm4OZubnJ-mZvQk-JHcnUTT1sB44RUXp7Bi510ZQsARJ1RISvmM/s320/IMG_5275.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Meanwhile, Charlie wants to have a cake stall at school to help raise money for the Children in Need charity day they're having. I made cupcakes and brownies for him to sell. Since I'm brimming with holiday spirit already, I'm using Christmas sprinkles and listening to Danielle's Xmas Mix playlist that I made for her last year. The school children will appreciate the festive look too, I'm sure.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwK_xbgL9VPEuiN_y86X63lVdMJgQ0u5pgJq1teuBEjMqI8UWhA0q2r6mRN5gA867B34UaVcgUM2BVjmASu4erxfarXgdDYH3GicraLNSb9cwVN0Gg9qiPdcws1XFMB3ZKKeTizsLx-XU/s1600/IMG_5274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwK_xbgL9VPEuiN_y86X63lVdMJgQ0u5pgJq1teuBEjMqI8UWhA0q2r6mRN5gA867B34UaVcgUM2BVjmASu4erxfarXgdDYH3GicraLNSb9cwVN0Gg9qiPdcws1XFMB3ZKKeTizsLx-XU/s320/IMG_5274.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I'll be making Pumpkin Bread soon, since I like that for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Of course, I'll have pies to make too. Then I can focus on COOKIES!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00861913435132047617noreply@blogger.com0