Merry Christmas!

I want to take a moment to wish all my friends a very Merry Christmas! I hope that whatever you do on this day, rather you are religious or not, that you take a minute, sit back, relax, sip on a cup of hot chocolate, and reflect on all the positives in your life. This is the time of year to be celebrating friends, family, and all that you do have in your life.

Anisscheiben (Self-Frosting Anise Drops) - A German Cookie

There is something magical about these little cookies. They are made from a simple batter but with a lot a waiting, they turn into these delicious cookies that have a meringue type frosting, a chewy center, and a crisp bottom. There are a few secrets to getting these to turn out perfectly, which take a little practice. I am still working to make them into perfect little circles like my Grandmother could.

Pfeffernüsse (Peppernuts) - A German Cookie

For as long as I can remember my family has made the same cookies every holiday season. Almost all of the cookies are ones that my grandmother made every year, without fail. Honestly, I have never figured out how she managed to make all the cookies that she did. She baked for not only for the family she'd have over for Christmas, but everybody got to leave with a huge box of cookies, at least a dozen of each kind. She had to have made at least triple, if not quadruple, batches of every cookie.

My grandmother lived with us when I was in high school and I got to spend the last 3 years of her life working in the kitchen with her at Christmas to make all these wonderful cookies. While I was in college my dad took over the Christmas cookies. No matter how much he tried, they just never came out right. My mom tried too. She failed even worse. Once I moved out of my parents' house, I took over the Christmas cookies. I have been baking for a week already and am only half done with the list of Christmas cookies. I'm pretty sure I've also gained at least 5 pounds already.

One of my favorite cookies are these little spiced cookies that are extremely hard and require a hot beverage to drip them in. Translated from German they are called Peppernuts.

All Things Winter and Christmas

Although I am not a huge fan of winter, I absolutely love the holiday season and all the things associated with it. Especially the cookies. And the hot drinks. And the huge meals shared with loved ones. And anything else food related this time of year.

Crustless Cranberry Pie

I'm not sure what is up with the weather, but it was very nice to be able to have my windows open all day and enjoy the wonderful 75 degree temperatures here in NC. Apparently nobody told the weather that it's the end of November, but I'm not complaining. It was magnificent!

It was also the perfect day to try out a new recipe, perfect for a Thanksgiving dessert. A simple "pie" that requires less than 5 minutes of effort. This isn't really a pie, but a cake in the share of a pie. But whatever you call it, it is delicious! Try it out this holiday season!