Using sound judgment to be more self-reliant.
We buy maple syrup in bulk from a local maple syrup producer, so I enjoy trying out new maple syrup recipes. These maple leaf cookies are a maple twist on traditional sugar cookies. They start with making a butter and sugar blend that reminds me of the caramel sauce from my mom’s favorite cinnamon roll recipe, and add a dash of spice and light maple glaze for a simple but tasty cookie.
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These easy to make pumpkin oatmeal cookies are chewy, nutty and delicious. Works well with a variety of flour types, including gluten free flour blends. The biggest problem with these cookies is that I want to eat the entire batch! These cookies were even a hit with the boys, who normally aren’t big on oatmeal cookies. They definitely go on the “keeper” list.
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These easy Christmas cookies let you turn one batch of dough into three different cookies. Two of the recipes are sliced and one is rolled, making it easy to prep them for baking. (No cookie cutters needed!) The basic dough makes lemon-almond cookies, chocolate-mint thumbprint cookies and chocolate freckle cookies….
I have always liked lemon shortbread cookies – simple, delicate – they’re all about using good quality ingredients and handling them correctly. With the lovely lemon and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and you’ve got a cookie that’s fancy enough for a party but easy enough for a treat anytime. If you want to dress them up a little more, you can add some color before baking, or dust with a bit of decorating sugar, but I like to keep them simple….
I know that retailers love the holiday season because of the gift buying frenzy, but spending a lot of time in crowded stores is not my idea of fun. We prepare homemade jams, jellies and other treats throughout the year for gift baskets. I also keep an eye out for items at thrift stores and garage sales that I know would be a good fit for someone on my holiday list.
A few things are purchased new – I haven’t yet learned how to whip up computer parts in the kitchen – but I am not a big shopper. I’d rather focus on spending time together with people I care about. Throwing some great food in the mix is also welcome, as there are a number of recipes I typically make only for holidays. In this post I’ll share a few tips for greener gifting that are good for our wallets and the environment.
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