CHRISTMAS COOKIE ROUNDUP

I've basically done nothing but cookies during the days this week, which I honestly love.  Working in my bright new kitchen, creating cookie art is just about my favorite thing to do.  I tried to get everything done before the kids' break began, because it is infinitely more difficult to do with them also in the kitchen.  I finished teacher/neighbor boxes just in the nick of time!  Each box included a sampling of this collection:



As December moved along, I realized that I didn't have the energy needed to do a large offering of cookies to sell.  Though I love creating cookies, having a LOT of them that I HAVE to make can feel overwhelming.  So, I opted out of that madness, and though I missed bringing joy through cookies to a wider audience, I did not miss needing to make cookies every spare moment of the day and night during an already busy time.

After interviewing to be on Food Network earlier this year, I knew I wanted to try a wider variety of cookies this Christmas season.  I had so much fun creating a diverse box, and I thought I'd share some recipes in case you have any holiday baking left to do!

Here is my recipe for sugar cookies and frostings.  I wrote that post in 2013, so it is probably time to update it, but none of my methods have changed in all that time.  They will forever and always be my favorite thing to make.



I also made Lemon Pistachio Wreaths.  These didn't turn out as pretty as I had in my head, but they are delicious.  John said they have a trail mix vibe.  🤷🏻‍♀️🤣



When we traveled to Italy years ago, I fell in love with meringues.  I think I have made them, but if so, it has been years, and I was amazed at how simple they really are.  And - you can make them any color or flavor or shape - so many options!  I made these into Christmas trees with sprinkles - though my trees were more than a little wonky.



I tried my hand at gingerbread again and was reminded of just how Christmasy it feels to be making and eating gingerbread.  Yum.  Plus, these little houses were just the cutest things to have on hand!



And because nothing is complete without chocolate, I added Lilaloa's Chocolate Cutout cookies and dipped them in white chocolate and sprinkled candy canes on them.



I hope this gives you some good ideas to try!  Happy baking, and Merry almost Christmas - we are getting so close!