Today, we’re going to look at some more traditional options, and I’ll share links to a few recipes that I think are great examples from each category. I hope that you’ll take time in the comments to share some of your favorites as well!
Cookies
Cookies can be simple or complex. If you plan to make multiple types of cookies, it might be wise to pick some quick, simple recipes to include with more unique cookie options. And, remember – even the humble chocolate chip cookie can look more exciting if you decorate it. Perhaps you could dip half in melting chocolate and put sprinkles on it, for example.
Some cookies ideas to consider:
- My Most Favorite Oatmeal Cookies Ever
- Shortbread Cookies
- Chocolate Whoopie Pies
- Super Duper Chocolate Kiss Cookies
- Dipped S’mores
- Nutella Cookies
Some sources for cookie recipes (to buy or borrow from the library):
- Taste of Home: Cookies (620 Recipes)
- Betty Crocker’s Cooky Book
- Martha Stewart’s Cookies
- Best Bake Sale Cookbook
- Whoopie Pies : Dozens of Mix ’em, Match ’em, Eat ’em Up Recipes
Candies and Fudge
Always a Christmas classic, candies and fudge are a perfect addition to a larger basket or can be given on their own.
Some candy and fudge ideas to consider:
- Pine Bark (aka “Cracker Candy”)
- Holiday Snack Mix
- White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge
- Sugar Cookie Truffles
- Thousand Dollar Bars
Sources for Candy and Fudge Recipes (to borrow or buy):
- Chocolates and Confections at Home with The Culinary Institute of America
- Who Wants Candy?
- Candymaking
Quick Breads, Muffins, and Scones
At our holiday gatherings, one of the fastest things to disappear are items like pumpkin and zucchini bread. So, why not surprise people with a lovingly wrapped quick bread or a partial batch of muffins or scones? These are all great options that are sweet, but not overly sweet like candy and cookies.
Some breads, muffins, and scones ideas:
- Zucchini Bread (aka Cinnamon Bread)
- Sugar-Topped Blueberry Muffins
- Zucchini Raisin Walnut Muffins
- Apple Nut Bread
- Pumpkin Butterscotch Muffins
- Vegan Scones
Books to Buy or Borrow for Ideas:
Jams and Jellies
Do you love making things like jams, jellies, or butters (like apple butter or pumpkin butter)? These are fabulous gifts to share with family and friends!
Some jam and jelly ideas:
- Easy Strawberry Freezer Jam
- Pumpkin Butter
- Blueberry Lemon Preserves
- Raspberry Jam
Books to Buy or Borrow for Making Jams, Jellies, and Butters:
- Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving
- Canning for a New Generation: Bold, Fresh Flavors for the Modern Pantry
- The Complete Book of Small-Batch Preserving: Over 300 Recipes to Use Year-Round
What are some of your favorites from these traditional ideas that didn’t make the list? (Please feel free to include a link in your comments.)
Check out the posts of some of my other blogging friends, who are also writing Christmas themed posts this week:
A Slob Comes Clean – Getting Your Home Company Ready
Feels Like Home – Christmas Traditions
Somewhat Crunchy – Christmas with Dairy Allergies
Spell Outloud – Children’s Books
Mama’s Learning Corner – Children’s Crafts
Many Little Blessings – Edible Gifts
Sunflower Schoolhouse – Decorations
An Oregon Cottage – Christmas Cookies
Catholic Icing – Wishing Jesus Happy Birthday
The Traveling Praters – Traveling
The Homeschool Classroom – Gifts Kids Can Make
Mama’s Laundry Talk – Laundry Gifts
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Great list! I made those pumpkin butterscotch muffins this morning. 😉