Chocolate Drums Cookie Recipe

The chocolate drums cookie recipe is a perfect one to make with the children. These little gems will look so great sitting on a serving plate at your next holiday party!

Ingredients

Chocolate Christmas Cookies

1/2 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup salted butter, softened

1 egg yolk

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Decorations:

Vanilla flavored candy coating, melted, slightly cooled

Decorator sugars and candies

Drumsticks:

Red licorice laces

Vanilla flavored candy coating, melted, slightly cooled

Hardware

Large bowl

Small microwave safe bowl

Cookie sheets

Plastic wrap

Mixer

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine sugar, butter, egg yolk and vanilla extract. Beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy (2-3 minutes).

Step 2: Reduce speed to low and add the flour and cocoa; beat until well mixed.

Step 3: Divide dough into fourths. Shape each fourth into a 7-inch roll about 1-inch in diameter. Wrap each roll with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Step 4: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 5: Cut rolls into 3/4-inch slices with a sharp knife. Place rolls 1 inch apart, cut side down, on ungreased cookie sheets.

Step 6: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until set. Let cookies set for 2 minutes before transferring to a cooling surface. Cool completely.

Decorating:

Step 1: In a small microwave safe bowl, melt candy coating in microwave according to directions on package.

Step 2: Roll sides of drums in the melted candy coating. Immediately dip or roll in desired decorator sugars or candies. Let stand to harden.

Drumsticks:

Step 1: Cut licorice laces into 1 1/4-inch pieces.

Step 2: Dip one end of each piece into melted candy coating. Crisscross two drumsticks on top of each drum. Let stand to harden

The chocolate drums cookie recipe makes 24 drums.

For more information on baking procedures and hardware used in this recipe see our Baking Tips section.

Important: Feel free to republish this article on your website. However, you are not allowed to modify any part of its content and all links should be kept active.

Chocolate Drums Cookie Recipe

For more great Christmas cookie recipes visit http://kicked-up-cookie-recipes.com/christmas-cookie-recipes.html

For some great tasting oatmeal cookie recipes visit http://kicked-up-cookie-recipes.com/oatmeal-cookie-recipes.html

For cookie baking tips and a wide selection of recipes visit http://kicked-up-cookie-recipes.com/

Favorite Christmas Colors of All Time

Do you feel the prevailing excitement in the air? Can you see the smile on people's faces as you go from one place to another? Have you noticed shopping malls being a bit more crowded than it used to be? All these are significant circumstances that tell everyone that the Christmas season is fast approaching. Have you suddenly noticed the distinct colors of red, green, and yellow become more apparent in display windows and in the decors? Yes, this is because these colors are the favorite Christmas colors of all time.

Christmas brings along with it the lively spirit of the holidays. The colors red, green, and yellow are clear remembrances of the presence of Christmas in the air. You may be wondering why these particular colors? Aside from being the traditional Christmas colors you have seen since childhood, you might find yourself asking why red, green, and yellow?

Christmas Cookies

It is with certainty that you know Santa Claus, right? He is the guy in the red suit with a protruding round belly having a thick mustache and wearing a red hat as well. And yes, he is the one carrying the big red sack full of goodies for children. Now with all these stated, you must have an idea why red is one of the favorite colors of Christmas. It is because the color of the most generous guy on Christmas is red.

Another thing that is very popular during Christmas is the Christmas tree. It is oftentimes cut from the finest pine tree anybody can find. You just need to buy your tree ahead of the rush season or else you would find one that is not just as tall as you wanted it to be, not as full or fluffy, and would not meet your expectations. If you can notice, the prevailing color of this tree is green. So now you have an idea why green is the other favorite color during Christmas season.

Yellow denotes the light during Christmas. Isn't it that anywhere you look, there are those Christmas lights sparkling, further enlivening the festivities? It further signifies the message of Christmas, which is to become bearers of good tidings of peace and joy. Isn't it that Santa checks his list as to who is good or bad?

You can safely say that Christmas is really a colorful season, and that all these colors play a significant role in reminding everybody of the meaning of Christmas. In fact you can include as many colors as you want. Like in your home decors and even with the Christmas lights you would be using at home. Just remember that red, green, and yellow will always be the favorite colors of Christmas.

Favorite Christmas Colors of All Time

Suzie has been writing articles on interesting topics including health issues and home decoration ideas. Her new interests are in vacuum cleaners such as Bissell Upright Vacuum and Hoover Upright Vacuum.

How To Make Perfect Chocolate Fudge

Chocolate Fudge has always been my favorite candy. It's a very rich candy though, so I have always limited myself to making it only at Christmas time. For years I looked for the perfect fudge recipe. I made many different recipes that were really good, but just not "perfect". I had three main requirements for a perfect chocolate fudge recipe:

Finally, about 20 years ago a friend of mine gave me some fudge that she had made for Christmas. EUREKA! This was the fudge I had been looking for all of my life! What was even better is that my friend didn't mind sharing her recipe, and ever since then, I have made several batches of this fudge every year for Christmas and it has always turned out perfect.

Chocolate Christmas

The Perfect Chocolate Fudge Recipe

Follow these directions and you'll make creamy and delicious chocolate fudge every time. This recipe makes 5 pounds of fudge, unless you make it without nuts, then it's 4 pounds. Ingredients You Will Need: 20 oz. Hershey's milk chocolate bars - I buy the big ones that are always on sale at Christmas time, but any size will do, just make sure it adds up to 20 oz. If you like darker fudge, substitute some or all of the 20 oz. with the semi-sweet chocolate bars. 1 cup butter (not margarine!), softened to room temperature. Also, a little extra butter for your pans. 1-12 oz. package of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Use a good brand, as in Nestle's, Hershey's, or Ghiradelli. If you prefer lighter fudge, use milk chocolate chips. 4 cups granulated sugar. 1 and 2/3 cups evaporated milk 2 and 1/2 cups mini marshmallows 2 teaspoons vanilla, use the real stuff 1 pound of nuts, chopped

In your large stainless steel bowl, break up the milk chocolate candy bars and the butter into small pieces. Pour in chocolate chips and set aside.

Grease your pans with butter. You'll need two 9x13 inch flat cake pans, but you can use smaller or larger pans depending on what you have available, and how thick you want your fudge to be. It's best to have a couple of extra smaller pans ready just in case.

In a large saucepan or pot, combine sugar, evaporated milk and mini marshmallows. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Tip: Don't scrape the sides of the pot when you are stirring, it tends to make candy taste grainy.

Cook and stir at a light but steady boil for 7 minutes. You might see some brownish bits floating around as its cooking. This is normal. Remove from heat, pour over butter and chocolate in your bowl.

With a wooden spoon, stir until melted and well blended. Continue to stir until candy loses some of it's shine. (The shine should go from a shiny, high gloss to a matte gloss). Stir in vanilla and nuts, if desired.* Pour into buttered pans. Cool completely before cutting into pieces. Use a knife dipped in hot water for cutting.

*If you don't want nuts in your fudge, this is where you leave them out. If you want to make a pan of fudge without nuts, then first stir in the vanilla, then pour how much you want without nuts into a pan, and then add nuts to the remaining fudge. You'll need to adjust the amount of nuts then. For example, if you're making half of your fudge without nuts and half with, then only use 8 oz. of nuts.

How To Make Perfect Chocolate Fudge

Adrienne Petersen invites you to visit Adrienne's Free Cooking Recipes Online, where you'll find "family and friend approved" free recipes and helpful cooking tips. Have a delicious recipe you'd like to share? Submit your favorite recipes and cooking tips here!

Night Before Christmas... Significance of the Poem

"Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house

Not a creature stirring, not even a mouse.

Christmas Cookies

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

In hopes that St.Nicholas soon would be there"...

The more we read it the more we love the lines.

An evening in winter...children...the elders by the fire side...one of them is reading out "Twas the night before Christmas..." or "A visit from St. Nicholas" by Clement Clark Moore...This evening is the evening before Christmas. One can hear the giggles of the children outside...the shopkeepers are too busy to meet their demands...the world never appears as beautiful as it is today. Everybody seems innocent in the land of Christ.

It is a very popular tradition of American families to read the poem by Clement Moore on every Christmas Eve. This is the poem from where we get a refined picture of Christmas and Santa Claus. Moore changed the image of Santa Claus. Prior to the publication of the poem St. Nicholas was conceived as a lanky, stern Bishop who championed the cause of dispensing both gifts and discipline. The poem portrays Nicholas as a cheerful, rosy-cheeked elf who gives out gifts to the children. Christmas came to be known as the occasion of exchanging gifts.

Santa turned out to be the loving persona. The research on this issue reveals that Santa laughs "ho ho ho" unlike what the people actually do. He has got "a little round belly/ that shook when he laugh'd, like a bowlful of jelly". Santa was never associated with reindeer in the past. Clement Moore changed the traditional notions in such a way that now it is difficult to distinguish between the original and the revised version. We not only believe in reindeer but also memorize their names- Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blitz en.

Thus we get from the poem a new image of Santa, a whole lot of names of reindeer and the mood of the event a day before the actual one starts. The poem is so popular that we have different versions of it. Joyce Luke wrote " Twas the week before Christmas and all through the school/ not a pupil was silent, no matter what rule. "Just like Moore's poem this one also ends with "As she looked at the Christmas tree glistening and tall, / she smiled as she whispered, "Merry Christmas to All." Moore's poem has been widely used for parodies. The parodied version for the gamblers goes like this-

"Twas the night before Christmas, I hit the casino,

I went there to play, more than just Keno."

It can have another version for love craft-

"Twas the night before Yuletide and all through the hole

Not a creature was stirring, not even a Dhole."

People nowadays decorate their tables according to the details given on Christmas and Santa in the poem. The table should give the impression of a snowy landscape. White sheet is spread out on the table and thus we have snow at the center of it where Santa and reindeer will be placed. Christmas candies are sprinkled on the table to make it more realistic. It seems Moore's lines have shaped both the ideas and activities concerning Christmas.

The night before Christmas is the day of setting up the Christmas tree, participating in the candlelight service early in the evening, attending Midnight Mass and enjoying the turkey or ham. Children will wait for their gifts even if the Puritans frown on the materialistic aspect of the event. While reading out the poem everybody thanks Moore for giving the hope of receiving gifts and meeting the jolly secular Santa.

Decorations done...the dinner was also wonderful...it's time to say "good night"...but on 24th December we love to end our day with the last line of the poem "Twas the night before Christmas",

"Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good- night!"

Night Before Christmas... Significance of the Poem

Sean Carter writes on holidays, Christmas and world events. He also writes on family, relationships, Thanksgiving, religion, love and friendship. He is a writer with special interest in ecard industry and writes for 123greetings.com. He also writes blogs on Christmas Blogspot

10 Best Christmas Markets to Visit Worldwide

Christmas is considered to be a season of richness and festivity and Christmas traditions involve decorating houses, setting up a Christmas tree and sitting down to a sumptuous Christmas dinner. Christmas is also one of the most important shopping seasons in the world and stores, malls and markets offer an array of goods at discounted prices in December. If you are looking to do some Christmas shopping, here is a list of the ten best Christmas markets around the world that sell Christmas decorations, cribs, statuettes, lights, Christmas paraphernalia, presents and delicious Christmas goodies.

1. The Cologne Christmas market draws over a million tourists each year to its six market sections, of which the largest and most impressive is the Cathedral market with its imposing backdrop of the Gothic cathedral. Visitors will find everything from lights to Christmas cookies here.

Chocolate Christmas

2. The Nuremberg market is yet another German market. The market at Nuremberg is one of the most beautiful Christmas markets you will ever find.

3. The Dresden market is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany. It is a few centuries old and this fact only adds to the richness of its product range.

4. The Vienna Christmas market is about seven hundred years old. Set amidst the square across the town hall, the park surrounding the market adds to its beauty. Visitors will find beautiful Christmas ornaments on sale here.

5. The Brussels market in the historic Grand Place offers excellent Christmas goodies. Belgian chocolate, steamed snails and hard gingerbread are popular with visitors.

6. The Prague Christmas market features concerts, folklore and a petting zoo where children can touch and pet farm animals. As per the local tradition, visitors are expected to taste mulled wine as they pass through the stalls. Traditional wares include Babushka dolls and Bohemian crystal.

7. The Copenhagen market in Tivoli Gardens is well decorated with plenty of Christmas trees. The lake in the city is turned into a skating rink during this season. This market features costumed characters like leprechauns and Father Christmas.

8. The Chicago market in Daley Plaza draws over a million visitors each year and is America's biggest and best Christmas market. The architectural beauty of Chicago adds to the charm of this market. Visitors will find that shopping in this market is relatively less expensive in comparison with some European markets.

9. The Christmas market in Quebec City, Canada ensures visitors a white Christmas with sledge rides, ice skating and mulled wine adding to the celebrations.

10. The Christmas market in the Piazza Navona in Rome brings in a medieval Roman flavour to the Christmas shopping experience. Seasonal Italian cakes like torrone, biscotti and pandoro are sold in this market.

10 Best Christmas Markets to Visit Worldwide

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Christmas market accommodation and Prague market accommodation.

Christmas Cookies Scrapbooking Layout

One of my favorite family holiday traditions has always been making Christmas cookies. It is a tradition that has been passed down through our family, and I am continuing it on today with my daughter. This year my daughter decided she wanted to try to make them herself, and they turned out great! I was the official documenter, taking pictures and recording the decorative results for our family scrapbook.

To make the scrapbook layout more personal, I decided to use our favorite Christmas cookie recipe as part of the layout. I also used cookie cutters to make my own die-cuts to embellish the page. I was very happy with the results!

Christmas Cookies

Directions:

Take several photos of your family making Christmas cookies. If you didn't make any this year, you may have some old photos laying around from Christmases past. I chose to use only three photos in this layout because the recipe took up a lot of room on the page. I took a picture of the unfrosted cookies as they came out of the oven, a picture of my daughter frosting the cookies, and then a picture of the finished cookies.

For the background paper, I chose a holiday-themed piece of 12x12 paper. It is green with holly berries. To mat the pictures and the caption, I used green cardstock.

For the caption, I typed "Making Cookies, Christmas 2004" vertically on a page in a large font that I liked and printed it off the computer. I matted this narrow piece with green cardstock and glued it to the left-hand side of the background page.

For the pictures and the recipe, I used a full 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of green card stock for the matting. I printed out the recipe and placed it at the bottom of the card stock (with a picture of the finished cookies at the right-hand bottom corner of the recipe), and I arranged the other photos at the top of the card stock with two die-cuts I created from our cookie cutters. The cookie cutter shapes were a bell and star cut from yellow card stock. I glued all these pieces to the green card stock and then glued the card stock to the background page. That's it!

Here is the Christmas cookie recipe:

Christmas Sugar Cookies

1 1/2 c. powdered sugar

1 c. butter, softened

1 tsp. vanilla

1/2 tsp. almond extract

1 egg

2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. cream of tartar

Mix powdered sugar, butter, vanilla, almond extract, and egg. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Divide dough into halves. Roll each half 1/2-inch thick on lightly floured surface. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters. Bake on lightly greased cookie sheet until the edges are brown, 7 to 8 minutes. Makes 5 dozen cookies. Frost when cookies are completely cooled.

Frosting

3 c. powdered sugar

1/3 c. butter, softened

1 1/2 tsp. vanilla

2 tbsp. milk

Mix powdered sugar and butter. Stir in vanilla and milk. Beat until smooth and easy to spread. Divide into bowls and add food coloring until desired colors.

Photo of finished project:
http://www.crafty-moms.com/articles/121904a.shtml

Christmas Cookies Scrapbooking Layout

Rachel Paxton is a freelance writer and mom. For scrapbooking, card making, gift-giving ideas, and more family memory-making activities, visit http://www.crafty-moms.com

Smore Bar Cookie Recipe

Ingredients

1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, softened

Christmas Cookies

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

5 milk chocolate bars (1.55 oz. each)

7 oz. jar marshmallow creme

Hardware

Whisk

Large bowl

Medium bowl

8x8 inch baking pan

Cooking Spray

Wax paper

Mixer

Step 1: Heat oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C).

Step 2: With cooking spray, coat 8x8 inch baking pan; set aside.

Step 3: In large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add egg and vanilla, beat well.

Step 5: Whisk together flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking powder, and salt.

Step 6: Add flour mixture to butter mixture, beating until blended.

Step 7: Press half of dough into prepared 8x8 inch baking pan.

Step 8: Arrange chocolate bars over first layer of dough.

Step 9: Spread marshmallow creme over chocolate bars.

Step 10: On wax paper, spread remaining dough into 8x8 inch square, carefully slide dough off wax paper over marshmallow layer. Carefully press to form layer.

Step 11: Bake 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned.

step 12: Cool completely in pan, cut into bars.

Important: Feel free to republish this article on your website. However, you are not allowed to modify any part of its content and all links should be kept active.

Smore Bar Cookie Recipe

For more great bar cookie recipes visit http://kicked-up-cookie-recipes.com/bar-cookie-recipes.html

For some great tasting brownie recipes visit http://kicked-up-cookie-recipes.com/brownie-recipes.html

For cookie baking tips and a wide selection of recipes visit http://kicked-up-cookie-recipes.com/

Ten Ways to Make a Chocolate Cake With a Boxed Mix

We make cakes from scratch. We also use a boxed mix as our base and then add to it when making a cake.

I'd like to share several ideas for using a boxed mix as your base:

Chocolate Christmas Cookies

1. Make the cake according to package directions but add in either chocolate chips or mini M&M's. Use between one and two cups of chips or morsels. Mix in at the end and then bake as directed.

2. Make one white cake and one chocolate cake. Make one cake a swirl cake. Pour the white cake batter into the baking dish. Now create several lines of chocolate batter. Use a butter knife and swirl in the white cake mix. When done, cook the remaining chocolate cake and you've now got one swirl cake and one chocolate cake.

3. We happen to like mayonnaise in our house. Start with a box of chocolate cake mix. Add in one cup of mayonnaise, one cup of water and three eggs. Mix it together and then bake at 350 degree for about 30 minutes.

4. Start with your box of chocolate cake mix. Add in two eggs, one box of instant chocolate pudding and 1 ¾ cup milk. We use non fat milk. If you use 2% or whole milk, your cake will be a bit creamier. If you want to stir in chocolate chips, add them at the end. Bake about 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

5. Instead of the liquid called for on the box, use chocolate milk. It adds to the chocolate flavor of the cake.

6. Add frozen fruit to your box mix. These have to be lightly mixed in at the end. Frozen raspberries are wonderful in chocolate cake. You'll have to cook the cake a bit longer than the package directions on this one. Test it with a toothpick in the middle.

7. Make a layer cake and use marshmallow cream in the center. Kids love this gooey center.

8. If you enjoy the taste of coffee, add in coffee flavored liqueur. Add in about ½ cup. This should replace some of the liquid called for on the box.

9. We really like Heath bars. Break up Heath bars and add them to your cake mix. You end up with a toffee taste in your chocolate cake.

10. Do you like Black Forest Cake? Use one box of cake mix, ¼ cup oil, 2 eggs and ½ cup water. Mix it all together and pour into pan. Then pour one, 21 ounce can of cherry pie filling over the top and bake about 45 minutes at 350 degrees.

These are ten ideas to use a cake mix that can often be bought for around a dollar. Try experimenting with other ingredients you already have in the house. These are all fun ways to spice up an ordinary chocolate cake mix.

Ten Ways to Make a Chocolate Cake With a Boxed Mix

Audrey's mom always entertained when she was growing up. Audrey learned to prepare for large groups and has often entertained 15-30 people in her home at a time. You can find more great recipes at http://www.recipe-barn.com

Fannie May Chocolates - The History of an American Original

Fannie May Chocolates has had a long and somewhat tumultuous history, more indicative of the times than of their wonderfully rich brand of chocolates. Nearly a hundred years ago, H. Teller Archibald opened his now famous chocolate shop in Chicago, Illinois, intent on selling quality chocolates in the neighborhood. Over the next two-and-half decades, Archibald's dream grew to nearly 50 such stores, scattered conveniently around America. Fannie May was renowned for her gourmet chocolates and strong sense of commitment to excellence, a sense which would shortly lead to a temporary downfall.

With the arrival of World War II, many companies - not just chocolate companies - experienced an unprecedented shortage in the supplies they used to make their own specialty brands of chocolates, and so shifted their recipes temporarily to ingredients that were available. Archibald's company refused to do this, and paid the price by having to close their many retail stores much earlier in the day, when their original ingredients ran out. They simply refused to compromise quality, even to turn a profit. Sadly, the world doesn't often reward idealism, and the Fannie May floundered for a time.

Chocolate Christmas

Predictably, for such a candy company with a loyal base of customers, Fannie May returned to the scene in full force after the end of the War. A spirited campaign of chocolate-making vaulted off the return of their ingredients, and Fannie May introduced new chocolates that quickly became American favorites. The windfall from enabled them to buy a competitor-company (Fanny Farmer, no relation) in the early 1990s, and expand their operation.

Although Fannie May performed admirably for the half-century after World war II, their parent company - Archibald Candy Corporation - didn't do so well overall, and called it quits. This had the inevitable effect of bankrupting Fannie May, as well; although they would not be long without a capable suitor. Alpine Confections Corporation realized the utility of the history, profitability and customer base of Fannie May and bought the company shortly afterward, moving their base of operations to Ohio in the process, in the year 2004. This would not, however, be her final home.

Fannie May was always going to be worth something; particularly with the raves regarding her special Mint Meltaways, and two years after the move to Ohio, she was bought by the national conglomerate 1-800-Flowers.com, Inc for nearly 0 million, keeping the manufacture of her confectionary brands in Ohio, while allowing the headquarters to remain in her birthplace, Chicago Illinois. She has expanded her repertoire beyond chocolates and candy, and now delights her ever-growing fan base with gift baskets, gourmet foods other than chocolate (and, of course, as well as chocolate), and uniquely delicious trademark chocolate combinations.

Fannie May Chocolates - The History of an American Original

Fannie May chocolates is one of the most popular chocolates in America, with its long line of delectable milk chocolates and sweet combinations. Perfect for sharing with a friends or loved ones during the holidays, Chris fell in love with their mint-melt-aways when her husband introduced them to her. Whether as decorations for a Christmas tree or presents for Valentines Day, you simply can't go wrong with Fannie May.

The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Ever

Many people like to treat their families to home-baked goodies. As just about everyone knows, America's favorite cookie is the good old Chocolate Chip. Recipes and variations abound, and often families have their own versions of this most-loved sweet. What some people may not be aware of, though, is the origin of this cookie. The story goes that a Massachusetts innkeeper by the name of Ruth Wakefield accidentally invented the scrumptious diet-breaker. It seems Mrs. Wakefield was baking a batch of chocolate cookies in the kitchen of the Toll House Inn and substituted grated chocolate bits for melted chocolate. Apparently, Ruth was hoping that the chocolate bits would melt and mix into the batter as they baked. It seems she was wrong. Her mistake, however, became one of this country's all-time favorite treats.

There are many variations of the Chocolate Chip cookie. Some popular ones include:

Chocolate Christmas Cookies

* Replacing the typical walnuts in the recipe with macadamias; * Mixing different types of chips with the chocolate, such as butterscotch or peanut butter; * Adding dried fruits, like raisins or cranberries.

My clan prefers the solidly unpretentious, classic chocolate chip cookie. Following is the recipe for my family's favorite after-school snack, which is the classic Toll House version.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 sticks butter, softened 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, 3/4 cup white sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp salt, 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour, 2 cups semi-sweet morsels, 1 cup chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 375 degrees

Combine flour, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl. Beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla, and the eggs one at a time. Gradually beat in the flour mixture. Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts by hand.

Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.

Bake for 9-11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

This recipe makes approximately 60 delicious cookies.

The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Ever

Changing Holiday Traditions

Kay called yesterday. Stressed about the impending holiday season, she complained, "I'm planning that darn Christmas Eve dinner." She is experiencing this once welcomed tradition as a dreaded event. "Can you change traditions?" She asked.

The tradition began when her mother married. Since her husband's family gathered on Christmas Day, she created the Christmas Eve dinner as a special way to celebrate with her family. Over the years, as children married and moved away, the value of the event grew into the highlight of the year! When her mother died, Kay happily took over the tradition and enjoyed preparing the celebration for many years.

Christmas Cookies

Today, Kay's children and grandchildren gather at this traditional event. The difference is that they all live nearby and see one another weekly. The original meaning of the Christmas Eve dinner changed. It no longer represents drawing people together one day a year with anticipation and excitement. Now it is one more chore, a sign that the tradition needs updating.

A newly recovering alcoholic client called me in a panic a few years back. She was concerned about relapsing over mounting holiday stress. The biggest upset was that she would not be able to finish making handmade ornaments, which had become a tradition. She started late due to time in treatment.

"What's really important about them?" I asked. After thinking a minute she said, "They show each person how much I really care about them." Tears welled up as she realized that relapsing would send the opposite message. Then, the light went on! "I sent the ornaments to avoid seeing them." With this awareness, she changed the tradition. She enclosed a poem in gift boxes inviting each person to select a special time to be together with her in the next year for a meal, shopping, etc. Over the years, this has become a welcomed tradition.

This is true in the workplace too. I remember the annual cookie exchange. Each person would bring their best cookie to exchange and everyone went home with a fabulous assortment of traditional homemade favorites. One year we realized that most of us exchanged the local bakery's cookies. The meaning of the tradition had changed. It was time for a new tradition, one that enhanced our working relationship without making unnecessary demands upon it.

As this holiday season approaches filled with past traditions and rituals, take time to reevaluate the meaning of your traditions. Are they still providing the original meaning? Is a tradition creating more stress than value? Is there another way to convey meaning that would be simpler or more effective? If it's significant, maintain it. If it has lost its purpose or meaning, create a new one.

Talking about meaningless traditions reminds me of a story about a young newlywed making the traditional family roast for the first time. As she is about to cut the ends off the roast she asks, "Mother, why are the ends cut off the roast?" Her mother replied, "That's how my mother taught me to do it."

Becoming more curious, she called her grandmother with the same query. "Why is it important to cut the ends off the roast?" Her grandmother said, "That's what my mother did."

More intent than ever, she approached her great grandmother at the nursing home, "Grandma, why do you cut the ends off the roast before cooking?" The elderly woman answered slowly, "Well dear, the pan I had was just a little too small for the roast, so I cut off the ends to make it fit."

Traditions are born of historical choices. We feel bound to keep up the fondly remembered act, even though its meaning has long gone.

When there's too much too do with too little time; it is vital to scrutinize every activity in terms of the value it adds to your life. Time-honored traditions are no exception.

Traditions, rituals and ceremonies add beauty and meaning to our lives. They provide depth to our experiences. However, a tradition without meaning can be counterproductive. It can inspire resentment, anger and frustration at its unreasonable demand for compliance.

One way to fulfill your quest for meaning, joy and peace this holiday season is to evaluate and create meaningful and simple traditions that are easy to maintain and truly serve their purpose.

May you have a happy, meaningful holiday season!

© Aila Accad

Changing Holiday Traditions

Aila Accad, RN, MSN is an award-winning speaker, bestselling author and certified life coach, who specializes in quick ways to release stress and empower your life. A health innovator and futurist, member of the National Speakers Association, she is a popular keynote speaker and radio and television guest. Her bestselling book "34 Instant Stress-Busters, Quick tips to de-stress fast with no extra time or money" is available at http://www.stressbustersbook.com Sign up for De-Stress Tips & News at http://www.ailaspeaks.com and receive a gift, "Ten Instant Stress Busters" e-book.

Christmas Cookie Recipes - Santa Face Cookies

Santa Claus pays a visit to your table in these delightfully cute cookies.

1 cup butter

Chocolate Christmas Cookies

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/2 cups flour plus additional for rolling

Royal Packaged Icing Mix

Red food coloring

Pastel candy dots

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Place butter in a bowl and cream until nice and fluffy. Gradually beat in sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the milk and vanilla. Add in flour; mix thoroughly. Chill dough for 1 to 2 hours or until it is easy to handle.

Work with 1/3 of the dough at a time and leave rest in the refrigerator until ready to use.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Take a Santa shaped cookie cutter and dip it into flour, then cut out Santa faces. Place cookies on an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until just golden brown. Let cool on cookie sheet for 1 minute. Remove from cookie sheet and cool completely.

Prepare the royal icing according to package directions. Color half the icing red and leave the other half the original color. Using a icing bag or plastic bag with a hole cut in it, pipe a red Santa hat on each cookie. Follow up with white icing for Santa's beard, eyes and hat pompom.

Place a candy decoration in the center of each white eye. Allow icing to set before serving.

Makes 18 to 24 cookies.

=> Christmas Cookie Recipes: Easy Snowmen Cookies

These snowmen are easy to make and they make nice centerpiece decorations.

1 (16 oz.) package Nutter Butter Cookies

1 1/4 pounds white candy coating, melted

Miniature chocolate chips

M&M miniature baking bits

Pretzel sticks, halved

Orange and red decorating gel or frosting

Directions

Using tongs, dip cookies in candy coating; shake off excess. Place cookie on waxed paper.

To decorate: Place two chocolate chips on one end of cookies for eyes. Place baking bits down middle for buttons. For arms, dip ends of two pretzel stick halves into coating; attach one to each side.

Let stand until hardened. Pipe nose and scarf with gel or frosting.

Makes 32 cookies.

=> Christmas Cookie Recipes: Peppermint Twist Kiss Cookies

The peppermint twist isn't just a song, but a delicioius holiday cookie that is colorful and festive.

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/3 cup sugar

1 egg yolk

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/4 cups all purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

4 to 8 drops red food coloring

36 chocolate kisses

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and the sugar. Add in the egg yolk, peppermint extract and vanilla extract; mix well.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture.

Divide the dough into two sections. Tint one section red. Divide the dough into four sections. You should have two red sections and two regular sections. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Shape each section into a 9-inch log. Place one plain log next to one red log. Gently twist the plain and red logs together and create one swirled log. Repeat with the other two logs.

Cut each log into nine slices; roll each slice into a ball. Place each slice 1-inch apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten slightly with a glass.

Bake 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned. Press a chocolate kiss candy piece into each cookie center, while cookies are still warm. Let cool.

Makes 36 cookies.

Christmas Cookie Recipes - Santa Face Cookies

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Roy Rogers Cap Pistols and German Chocolate Cake!

I remember one special Christmas morning, when dad and mother yawningly turned the Christmas tree lights on in the corner of the living room, illuminating all the wonders that Santa had brought the night before. This was before television and computers and well before video games.

As though it was yesterday, just as the morning light was seeping through the windows, I saw a red cowboy hat and a Roy Roger's gun and holster set under the tree. On the other side of the tree there was a tan cowboy hat and pistol set. This one was for my younger brother.
As I recall, that was the extent of my Christmas gifts. By today's standards it was sort of skimpy, but our family couldn't have enjoyed the day more. In addition to our genuine cowboy outfits, Santa Claus brought mom a new hand bag while dad got another tie. It was a wonderful Christmas morning!

Chocolate Christmas

The day however, was just beginning. After my brother and I had chased off any outlaw or renegades that might have sneaked into our house during the night, we greedily ate some of the apples, oranges and nuts that Santa had scattered under the tree. Back then these fruits were a delicacy we only enjoyed on Christmas morning and rarely were there any left for the next day.

It may seem as if I'm painting a picture of a poverty stricken household, but on the contrary, we were somewhat more affluent than most of our neighbors. It was just a simpler and more innocent time with each gift important to us. Receiving only a few items at Christmas seemed to give make those gifts more precious, if you can call a Roy Rogers genuine cap gun and holster set precious.

When things began to settle down a little and the wrapping paper was packed up and stowed in trash cans, the ribbons carefully save in a box for next year, mom began Christmas dinner. In the south back then, lunch was dinner and dinner was supper. I still wonder why the terminology changed; must have been Yankee influence.

Even though Thanksgiving's feast had only been a month before, Christmas dinner always was a little more spectacular, if only in the sweets department. There were no counting calories when I was a kid, especially on Christmas day. In addition to my mother's contribution of sweets, my Aunts always came over and brought with them ridiculous amounts of sugary delights, all of which would be eaten.

By dinner time the house was full of the fragrances of ham, turkey, sweet potatoes and every kind of side dish you can imagine. Thanksgiving dinner had been just a warm up for the main event. Christmas was the when relatives you hadn't seen since Aunt Bertha's funeral showed up for dinner. That year was no exception!

Mom always made the coconut cake and fruitcake. It was her specialty and no one would even try to match her on either one of those. I'm not sure of the recipe, but she made her cake with real coconuts. I recall her cracking the hard shell with a hammer, draining the milk into a glass and then prying out the coconut, which she shredded. No packaged pre-shredded coconut for her!
An hour before the table was set, Aunt Vida arrived with two of her chocolate pies and enough fudge to feed Rhode Island. Aunt Helen balanced a real German Chocolate cake in one hand and a gallon of boiled custard in the other. These were in the center ring of our Christmas dinner circus.

While other folks brought food items, none were in the same class as my mother's Coconut cake and my two aunts' chocolate pie and German chocolate cake. Sometimes there was a little controversy as to whose boiled custard was the best. No one ever really won that argument!

While none of us can turn back the clock, this is a time for remembering special moments of the past. Maybe this year's Christmas will be a great memory for one of our kids. It's nice to think so.

Roy Rogers Cap Pistols and German Chocolate Cake!

Bob Alexander is well experienced in outdoor cooking, fishing and leisure living. Bob is also the author and owner of this article. Visit his sites at:

[http://www.homeandgardenbob.com]

[http://www.redfishbob.com]

Planning Your Holiday Shopping Early

Christmas shopping should be well planned if you want to avoid having to scurry around on Christmas Eve trying to find last minute gifts for friends and family. This usually ends up with you having to settle for something that you would not normally buy as a gift.

But at least there are certain things that you can rely on if you do have to settle for last minute shopping on Christmas Eve. You can always find a nice selection of chocolates that you can give to certain people as gifts.

Christmas Cookies

Another gift that is usually easy to find is a selection of assorted cookies which is sure to please somebody with a sweet tooth. You can always find plenty of different colognes or perfume sets that usually make good gift ideas too.

A very popular Christmas gift is always any type of clothing apparel such as blouses, shirts or even sweaters.

As long as you choose something that is not too bold or something in a basic color you cannot normally go wrong with this. This could alter if the person that you are buying likes bold colors or very flamboyant clothing.

You can always find a large selection of wallets, ties or other accessories that can make great gifts for the men. Women on the other hand are usually happy with some form of jewelry items or even a cosmetic kit or something along those lines.

It is better to give teenagers cash gifts or even vouchers so that they can go out after and buy something that they really need rather than something that they may never use. Kiddies are usually happy with any type of toys or books so they are easily bought for.

Shopping can be a specialized hobby especially at Christmas time but if you plan well ahead you should always get what you want. It is also a good way to keep within your budget too if you have one.

Planning Your Holiday Shopping Early

Jackie Reyno has also written articles on can crushers. Her other articles topics also include truck batteries resources and comparisons.

Christmas Recipes - Get 4 Delicious Recipes For This Christmas

You may get puzzled about what to prepare for Christmas. Christmas pickles, holiday dip, clam dip and Christmas crab dip are 4 great recipes you can prepare this coming Christmas. Here are the recipes for you to try them out:

1. Christmas Pickles

Chocolate Christmas

Ingredients:

- 10 pickles, sliced thin
- 1 cup of green peppers
- 1 cup of red peppers
- 1/2 cup of onions, diced
- 1 cup of vinegar
- 2 cups of white sugar
- 1 tablespoon of mustard seed
- 1 tablespoon of dill seed
- 1 tablespoon of salt

Directions:

- Heat vinegar and sugar until it comes to boil. Do not boil.
- Cool and pour over pickles, peppers and onions.

Will keep without sealing for months in refrigerator.

2. Holiday Dip

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 (8 oz.) pkg. of sour cream
- 1 (8 oz.) can of water chestnuts, drained, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons of chopped pimiento
- 1 tablespoon of sliced green onion
- 2 teaspoons of beef flavor bouillon
- 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Fresh vegetables and chips

Directions:

- In medium bowl combine all ingredients except vegetables and chips; mix well.
- Cover.
- Chill.
- Stir before serving.
- Garnish with additional green onion if you wish.

Serve with vegetables and chips.

3. Clam Dip

Ingredients:

- 1 (10 1/2 oz.) can of minced clams
- 6 oz. of cream cheese
- 2 teaspoons of grated onion
- 1/4 teaspoon of hot pepper sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of clam juice (reserved juice from canned clams)

Directions:

- Drain canned clams and reserve juice.
- Combine clams with remaining ingredients and blend thoroughly.
- Chill.

Serve with crackers or bread rounds.

4. Christmas Crab Dip

Ingredients:

- 1 pkg. (8 oz.) of cream cheese
- 1 jar Kraft Sharp Old English cheese spread
- 1 tablespoon of half & half
- 1 tablespoon of chopped chives
- Dash Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic salt, to taste
- 12 oz. of crab (fresh, frozen or canned)

Directions:

- Mix the first six ingredients in the top of a double boiler or chafing dish over a medium heat.
- When the ingredients have melted and mixed well add the crab, reduce the heat to just warm.

Serve with crackers. Great for a party!

Christmas Recipes - Get 4 Delicious Recipes For This Christmas

By the way.....for over 10000 delicious and easy to prepare recipes, click on the following link: The Delicious Recipes Package [http://those-recipes.information-guide.org/The_Recipes_Package.html]

Recipes Source: [http://those-recipes.information-guide.org/The_Recipes_Package.html]

Easy Brownie Recipes - 3 Most Wanted Cookies Of All Times

Here are 3 of my favorite brownie recipes:

>> Brownie Oatmeal Cookies

Chocolate Christmas Cookies

2/3 cup whole wheat flour

1/3 cup sugar

1 cup quick cooking rolled oats

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt, (optional)

1 each powdered egg substitute, (11/2 tsp. mixed with 3 tbs water)

1/3 cup corn syrup, ,light or dark (or substitute honey)

1 teaspoon vanilla

Mix egg replacer, vanilla and syrup. In separate bowl, mix dry ingredients, make a well, add liquid and stir till moistened. On a spritzed baking sheet, form approx. 2 dozen cookies. Bake at 350F for about 10 minutes Cool on sheet/wire rack for 5/5 minutes. Serves 24.

>> Brownie Fruit Pizza

1/2 cup reduced fat tablespread (1 stick) -- softened

1-3/4 cups sugar -- divided

4 eggs -- divided

2 teaspoons vanilla -- divided

1 cup flour

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 package Philadelphia Fat Free Cream Cheese -- softened (8 oz)

2 cups fresh fruit, assorted -- cut-up

Mix tablespread and 1 1/2 cups of the sugar with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add 3 of the eggs and 1 tsp. of the vanilla, mixing until blended. Stir in flour and cocoa. Spray 12-inch round pizza pan with nonstick cooking spray. Spread brownie batter in pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

Beat cream cheese with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Adding remaining 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg and 1 tsp. vanilla, mixing until blended. Spread over brownie. Bake 15 minutes. Cool. Refrigerate. Top with fruit.

Serves 12.

>> Chocolate Ming Brownies

1 cup Flour

1/2 cup Butter or margarine; soften

1/2 tsp Salt

4 Eggs

1 tsp Vanilla extract

16 oz Can chocolate-flavored syrup

1 cup Sugar

Filling:

2 cup Confectioners' sugar

1/2 cup Butter or margarine; soften

1 tbsp Water

1/2 tsp Mint extract

3 dr Green food coloring

Toppping:

10 oz Mint chocolate chipes

9 tbsp Butter or margarine

Combine the first seven ingredients in a large mixing bowl; beat at medium speed for 3 minutes. Pour batter into a greased 13-inch x 9-inch x 2-inch baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes (top of brownies will appear wet). Cool completely.

Combine filling ingredients in a medium mixing bowl; beat until creamy. Spread over cooled brownies. Refrigerate until set. For topping, melt chocolate chips and butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Let cool for 30 minutes or until lukewarm, stirring occasionally. Spread over filling. Chill before cutting. Store in the refrigerator.

Yields 60.

Easy Brownie Recipes - 3 Most Wanted Cookies Of All Times

Fond of Easy Cake Recipes? Just check Great Cake Recipes Blog for the most wanted cakes in the whole world. >> Quick Cake Recipes.

Chocolate Fruit Dip: A Healthy Recipe For You

Eating chocolate is good or bad for health...?

Well chocolate is the most likable and famous things to eat worldwide. In recent times chocolate has been considered to be healthy as it contains a chemical which helps in lowering the bad cholesterol from the blood. Chocolates are made with cocoa which contains antioxidants. These antioxidants protect the body from aging caused by free radicals, that can cause damage to heart and leads to heart diseases.

Chocolate Christmas Cookies

Chocolate has more than 300 chemicals and therefore remain the subject of studies by many universities as well as scientific organizations. The main ingredient of chocolate, i.e. cocoa has antibacterial agent that fights tooth decay. The chocolate also contains carbohydrate which raises the serotonin levels in the brain and thus results in a sense of well being.

Try out this healthy chocolate recipe: Chocolate Fruit Dip

This dessert item is not only lower in fat and in calories, but it is very fast to prepare and fantastic to eat.

The ingredients required are as follows: 1-1/2 cup plain yogurt, 2 tbsp fat free milk, 10 marshmallows, 2 tbsp semisweet chocolate chips along with few assorted fresh fruits.

Take a strainer and line it with four layers of cheesecloth and put over a bowl. Put the yogurt in a prepared strainer, cover yogurt with edges of cheesecloth. Refrigerate for 8-10 hours.

Take a small pan and combine the milk, marshmallows and chocolate chips. Cook till chips are melted and you get a smooth mixture. Transfer it to another bowl and allow it to cool.

Remove yogurt from cheesecloth and discard the liquid from the bowl. Stir yogurt into milk mixture. Refrigerate till serving. It can be served with fruit.

The dish is really healthy as it carries healthy fruits. So next time when your children asked for the chocolate...don't say "no" to them...Give them some healthy chocolate recipes and you will find a wonderful smile on your kid's face.

Chocolate Fruit Dip: A Healthy Recipe For You

For further details on some fantastic chocolate recipes please browse chocolate recipes.
You can also have a peek at Christmas cookie recipes by clicking Christmas cookie recipes

Christmas Recipes: Edible Gifts - No 4 of 8 - Chocolate Truffles

Christmas recipe makes: 2 dozen

Calories per truffle: 65

Chocolate Christmas

Preparation time: 30 - 60 minutes

Cooking time: 0 minutes

Suitable for freezing

Christmas recipe ingredients:

Truffle Mixture:

chocolate, bitter, plain or milk 225g (8 oz) double cream, 75 ml (3 fl oz) brandy, 75 ml (3 fl oz) or rum,orange liqueur, coffee liqueur, coconut liqueur

Rolled Truffles:

cocoa powder chopped nuts coconut, dessicated or grated chocolate vermicelli or grated chocolate for rolling

Dipped Truffles:

chocolate, plain, milk or white (350 g (12 oz) or mixture of all three

Christmas recipe instructions:

Truffle Mixture: Add the cream to grated chocolate and melt in a bowl over water at boiling point, stirring until smooth. Allow to cool and thicken. Add your alcohol of choice and whisk until the mixture is strong enough to stay 'up' when a strand of mixture is pulled up by the whisk. Then put the mixture into a shallow tin (covered) and cool till firm. Rolled Truffles: Place teaspoonful size amounts of truffle mixture onto a tray sprinkled with cocoa powder and roll into ball shapes. Alternatively you can substitute the cocoa with grated chocolate, chopped nuts, coconut, or chocolate vermicelli. Cool in a refrigerator for at least two hours. Dipped Truffles: Roll the truffle mixture into 2.5 cm (1 inch) size balls and freeze overnight until rock hard. [If you wish you could push some edible decor into the balls before cooling, such as nuts, ginger or cherries.] Prepare some melted chocolate over water at boiling point. If you can, check the temperature is in the range 46-49 degrees centigrade (115-120 F) or for white chocolate, 43 degrees centigrade. Taking two or three truffles at a time, use cocktail sticks to dip them into the melted chocolate before placing them on non-stick paper. Transfer to a refrigerator for cooling for at least two hours to harden. Repeat for the remaining truffles. Present the truffles in paper cases and store in boxes. Keep in a refrigerator for up to ten days.

Christmas Recipes: Edible Gifts - No 4 of 8 - Chocolate Truffles

Check out this great collection of Christmas recipes [http://www.cuzcominternetpublishing.com/christmas-recipes.html] and x-mas meals.

Most Popular Christmas Cookie Recipes - Chocolate Drizzled Cherry Bars

These impressive looking cookies will make a splash at any gathering.

2 cups all purpose flour

Chocolate Christmas Cookies

2 cups quick cooking oats

1 1/2 cups sugar

1 1/4 cups butter, softened

1 (21 oz.) can cherry pie filling

1 teaspoon almond extract

1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

3/4 teaspoon shortening

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a bowl, combine the flour, oats, sugar and butter until crumbly. Set aside 1 1/2 cups for topping. Press the remaining crumb mixture into an ungreased 13x9x2-inch baking dish. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until edges begin to brown.

In another bowl, combine the pie filling and extract; carefully spread over the crust. Sprinkle with the reserved crumb mixture.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges of the topping are lightly browned.

In a microwave or heavy saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Drizzle over warm bars. Cool completely. Cut into bars.

Makes 36 bar cookies.

=> Most Popular Christmas Cookie Recipes: Heavenly Caramel Cookies

A delicious cookie featuring spices, nuts, coconut and marshmallows.

12 graham crackers

2 cups miniature marshmallows

3/4 cup butter

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup sliced almonds

1 cup flaked coconut

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with foil.

Place graham crackers inside the pan; cover with marshmallows.

In a saucepan, cook and stir butter, brown sugar and cinnamon over medium heat until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat; stir in the vanilla. Spoon over the marshmallows.

Sprinkle with almonds and coconut. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes or until browned. Cool completely. Cut into 2-inch squares, then cut each square in half to form triangles.

Makes 72 cookies.

=> Most Popular Christmas Cookie Recipes: Minty Meringue Drop Cookies

These light as air cookies are perfect for the holidays.

2 egg whites

1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

3/4 cup sugar

1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 to 6 drops green food coloring, optional

1 pkg. mint chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat 250 degrees.

Lightly grease baking sheets or line with parchment paper; set aside.

In a large bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Add cream of tartar, beating until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until stiff peaks form. Beat in the vanilla and food coloring. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2-inches apart onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until dry to the touch. Cool.

Makes 30 cookies.

Note: If you cannot find mint chocolate chips, place 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips and 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract inside a plastic bag. Seal the bag and toss chips until coated. Let chips sit for 24 to 48 hours before using.

Most Popular Christmas Cookie Recipes - Chocolate Drizzled Cherry Bars

Clueless about what gift to give that special person? Stop on by and browse our great gift ideas selection for some suggestions. [http://www.1MinuteSolutions.com]

Christmas Cookies - Christmas Pinwheel Cookies and More

The history of cookies goes back to the time of Alexander the Great, and perhaps even earlier. It is no wonder there are so many varieties of these easy to carry treats. Pinwheel cookies are no exception. Whether you are combining two different colors or flavors of dough, or rolling dough with a filling, these cookies are pretty to look at and tasty treats to eat.

For a filled Christmas Pinwheel Cookie try this. You will need:

Christmas Cookies

1 1/2 cup craisins (dried cranberry raisins) 1 cup pistachios 1/2 cup water 1/4 cup sugar 2 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup white sugar 1 egg 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Put the craisins and nuts in a food processor and chop coarsely. Just use the pulse a few times. Place this mixture in a small saucepan with the water and 1/4 cup of sugar. Cook over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, until the mixture just comes to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool.

Cream the butter, sugars, egg and vanilla. Sift the flour, soda and, salt, together and add to the creamed mixture. You should get a medium soft dough. Chill 30 minutes.

Roll the dough out between sheets of wax paper. You want a large rectangle. Spread the nut and craisin mixture evenly across the dough, almost to the edge. You will roll from the long side so the filling can extend to the edges of the short sides and about 1/8 inch from the edges of the long sides. Starting at one long side, use the wax paper to help you roll the dough. Press the seam slightly. I use a fork to add a little decorative edge. Just gently press the fork across the length of the seam to create little indentations, much like you might do on a pie crust.

Wrap the cookie-roll in wax paper and chill until firm. When ready to bake, Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Cut into 1/4 inch slices. Bake on a greased or parchment lined cookie sheet.

Here is a tip. If you use a new, clean, piece of dental floss as your knife you won't end up with cookies that are flat on one side. Simply slide a length of the floss beneath the roll. pull the ends up and over the dough and cross them, like you were about to tie a shoelace. Pull and the floss will evenly cut through the dough. Move down and repeat. Toss the floss when done.

Bake the cookies about 8-10 minutes or until just starting to brown. Wait one minute before removing to a wire rack to cool. You may wish to lightly sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture, or confectioners sugar before serving. Santa loves these and the sugar-coating my reveal his true identity.

You can also make Pinwheel cookies by mixing up two batches of your favorite refrigerator cookie dough. You can even use the packaged cookie mixes if you like. My family loves old-fashioned sugar cookies. Tint one batch with food coloring. Roll each into a rectangle and layer one atop the other. Roll, chill, cut, bake and serve. Be adventuresome. Spread some raspberry jam between layers of plain and green tinted dough for a festive cookie.

If you are in a hurry or are pressed for time, you may decide to make drop cookies your choice. There are many to choose from. Try these delicate cookies. They have a big pecan flavor and are a great addition to a cookie tray as well as a unique and welcome hostess gift.

For these Pecan Lace Cookies You will need.:

1 cup finely chopped pecans 1 cup sugar 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 egg 1/2 cup butter,melted 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, use pure extract if you can. It is a difference in taste. 1/2 cup pecan halves for garnish

Using a food processor, process the pecans and sugar until finely ground. Use the pulse. You don't want pecan butter. Place in a bowl and stir in the sifted flour,powder, and salt.

Prepare your cookie sheets by lining with foil and greasing or use parchment paper sprayed with a cooking spray. You could also use a silicon pad.

In another bowl beat the egg. Add the melted butter and vanilla. Stir into flour mixture. Drop by teaspoonfuls about 3 inches apart onto the prepared pans. Press 1/2 of a pecan into the center of each cookie.

Bake at 325 degrees F for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and 'lacy' in appearance. Cookies should be allowed to cool on the pans before removing.

Optional: You can carefully remove the warm cookies while they are still soft and pliable by rolling them lightly around the handle of a wooden spoon. Slide them off gently and allow to finish cooling. When they are cooled they can be served with a filling of whipped topping mixed with fruit, or any other filling of your choice. IF you choose this option, keep in mind that you will need to fill and serve immediately. Cookies will get soggy if left to sit with fillings. Store flat between sheets of wax paper in an air tight container.

One of the reasons we bake all those cookies is because we want to share our love with our family, and lets face it, home-baked cookies are one of the favorite ways to show them you care. But, today it is sometimes hard to find the time to bake. Here is a way to share the love of a home-baked cookie, without having to do the baking.

Christmas Cookies in a Jar.

When you can't bake, or if you want to send cookies easily and not have your recipient end up with a box of crumbs, try this recipe. You can adapt it to your favorite recipe as well. Just omit the wet ingredients, layer the dry ingredients, and include a recipe card with instructions.

In a pretty Jar layer

1/3 cup sugar 1/3 cup packed brown sugar (pack to measure then break up in the jar) 3/4 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/8 teaspoon baking soda and 1/8 teaspoon salt sifted together 1 cup quick cooking oats 1 cup dried cranberries 1 cup vanilla chocolate chips 1/2 cup chopped nuts

From your computer you can print out a pretty recipe card, or you can write out the directions by hand. I prefer the hand-written version. It is a little more personal, but the choice is yours. Here is what you should include on the recipe card for these cookies.

To prepare these cookies please add 1/2 cup melted butter, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla which to the contents of the jar in a large bowl. Stir well and chill for 30 minutes. When you are ready, bake the cookies at 375 degrees F. You should drop them by tablespoons onto an ungreased baking sheets and bake for 8 - 10 minutes or until browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

This gift will keep for up to 6 months if sealed air tight, so when you have a little time earlier in the year you can make up a few of these and store in your pantry until gift giving time comes around. You can also mix up these 'cookie mixes' and keep on hand for those emergencies when you just gotta have a cookie but you didn't get a chance to shop for that missing ingredient.

These cookies in a jar are also great additions to a goodies basket. You might want to consider creating several different versions and make a cookie basket to give as a gift. Tuck into a large mixing bowl with some wooden spoons, a pot holder and stack on a cookie sheet. Wrap with a pretty ribbon and any cook would be thrilled. You might even want to tuck in some home-bakes samples.

These recipes are basics. With a little imagination you can turn them into different variations and create a platter full of 'different' cookie with minimal effort. And don't forget to get the kids and other family members involved. Making cookies is truly one of the joys we share during the winter holiday season. Christmas cookies aren't just for Christmas, they are good year-round, for all holidays, and especially good for a smile. Oh, don't forget to leave a few for Santa. (He likes the Pinwheel kind).

Christmas Cookies - Christmas Pinwheel Cookies and More

I am Barbara Cagle and I have been working and playing online since 1989. I am a certified teacher and as such I find that people are constantly asking me how to do ____. I started http://www.cagleonline.com in 2001 and it is now my internet portal where you can access information on a variety of subjects, find free products and resources, and get help for your business or just to make your life just a little bit easier.

At [http://www.caglecooksonline.com] you can download free cookbooks and find great lots of recipes. Check it out and don't miss the Master Site Index with links to all my online content. My Holiday cookbook is still available if you missed it and my newest cookbook, for Diabetics, is almost ready and will be available in time for Thanksgiving. So, head on over and see how I can help YOU today?