It's Gotta Be A Sickness

Just as the swallows must return each year to Capistrano, I guess I'm compelled to do this Christmas baking thing. I hope I'm not boring you by talking about it again, but that's really all I did today and I think there might be more of it tomorrow. So at least pretend polite interest, okay?

Today I made Nanaimo Bars. Have you had them? Really yummy! Those Canadians really know how to do things right up there, eh?! The recipe I linked you to is the one I used--the only problem I had was that the stuff didn't come out of the pan very well, and some other recipes I saw suggested spraying the pan first with cooking spray. Also, my chocolate layer broke up a little bit--which doesn't detract one bit from their yummy goodness, but they just aren't quite as pretty. And now that I've looked at other recipes, I see they recommended bringing the pan of bars back to room temperature before cutting--that's what I did wrong. Anyway, if you have any inclination to make a batch of really good stuff this year, try these. Yep, they're THAT good!

What else did I make? Brown sugar cookies. They're a tradition in our home, and my mom used to make them too. Simple to make and a nice, uncomplicated cookie that's excellent with milk, coffee, or tea.

Then I made some of those melted chocolate, nuts, and chow mein noodle things. Another simple recipe I wanted to try and hadn't until now.

After that came spicy glazed walnuts. Hot, salty, and sweet--all the good stuff wrapped up in one treat. And they're made in the microwave, so they're pretty easy.

Finally, I made the first part of another cookie/candy thing that has to go in the freezer for a few hours before being rolled and dipped in melted coating. I'll finish those tomorrow.

I think that's all unless I'm overlooking something. But I still don't know why I'm doing this. When Hubby worked, I always sent a tray of cookies to work with him, but he doesn't work any more. And I used to take cookies to work with me too, but this year we had the cookie exchange, so I don't know--maybe I will take some one of these days but they sure don't NEED them there. In past years, we gave cookies to family and friends as gifts, but we kind of stopped doing that too. So I don't know who I'm baking for, but I've made several treats already, and I'll be making at least a few more things tomorrow.

I'll confess something to you though: I'm getting kind of burned out, and I just might not make ALL of the treats I had originally planned yesterday. I'd kind of like to do something this weekend besides hang out in the kitchen, and I already have plenty of cookies made. In fact, if you're in the area, stop by for coffee and a couple cookies. I sure have plenty and after all, tis the season! Fa-la-la and all that stuff!