Today I got a couple of items off my Christmas to-do list:
- made a batch of cookies – a new recipe. I like to try at least one or two new ones every year to see what should be added to our permanent repetoire. Trying to come up with my own “traditional” cookies!
- made peppermint marshmallows to give to the neighbors. And what a blessing – our list of neighbors has expanded so much that I may have to make a second batch! Everytime I make these things I’m surprised by how easy they are. You think I’d remember after the first couple times, right?
- finished making granola to give to the Sunday School/Awana teachers:
Aren’t those cute? Unfortunately, there are about 10 more jars to go. Each of the big kids has 2-3 Awana teachers, and 2 Sunday School teachers. Then there’s the ballet teacher, and I think the mailman is going to get one of these, also.
Once again, Family Fun magazine saved me with this idea. And no, I’m not getting paid to say any of this. (But if they wanted to give me a free subscription I wouldn’t say no.) Here’s the recipe, which I have almost memorized after making 3 batches:
- 4 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup wheat germ
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds (I didn’t have these so used chopped pecans instead)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup water 1 (6-ounce) package dried sweetened cranberries or other dried fruits, such as cherries, raisins, pineapple, or papaya
- Instructions
-
- Heat the oven to 300 degrees. In a large bowl, stir together the oats, wheat germ, nuts, sesame seeds, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Make a well in the dry ingredients and add the oil, honey, and water. Toss the mixture until it is well combined, then spread it evenly on a cookie sheet.
- Bake the granola until lightly browned, about 40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to keep the mixture from sticking. Let it cool completely, then stir in the cranberries or dried fruit. Makes about 7 cups.
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Are you baking gifts this year? Any recipe ideas to share? Have you ever received a food gift that was exceptionally memorable – for ANY reason? Do tell!