Spending time baking during the holidays has always been a favourite tradition of mine. I've always enjoyed becoming immersed in making tasty treats to share with people who are important to me. The first thing I ever made to gift was simple white chocolate candy cane bark (literally crushed candy cane mixed with melted white chocolate, cooled and broken into shards). I used to give this out to friends when I was 11 or 12.
I've tried my hand at homemade candies, like caramels and chocolate truffles (a recipe passed down to me from my Scottish grandmother). Something about creating edible gifts has always been one of my favourite ways to get into the holiday spirit. I don't think anything says "Christmas" quite like sugar cookies. This recipe has become a favourite of mine, one I've adapted from Better Homes & Gardens. It results in a slightly soft cookie when baked accurately, the cookies hold their shape nicely in the oven (if properly chilled first), and I really like the prominent sweet almond flavour that comes through. These cookies can be coloured by adding colourants to the dough, or baked and decorated later. So, get creative!
"Something about creating edible gifts has always been one of my favourite ways to get into the holiday spirit."
Happy holiday baking!!! This year things will look a little different for families, but I hope your homes are still filled with some holiday cheer.
"I've always enjoyed becoming immersed in making tasty treats to share with people who are important to me."