Christmas Cookie Heritage
There is no other time of the year that brings out the baker in everyone than Christmastime. And the item to bake has been and always will be: cookies! There does not seem to be any other baked item that brings back the smells and the memories of Christmas more than cookies. When asking almost anyone they can tell you how their earliest memories of Christmas include the wonderful aromas of baking cookies. So this holiday if you are looking for a great way to make those memories with your family, bring your kids in the kitchen, break out the cookie recipes and get started on making some delicious memories. Just don’t forget the ice cold milk!
A great way to include Christmas cookies in your holiday celebration is to include cookies from the country of your family’s origin. Since cookies are such an integral part of Christmas celebrations around the world there are literally hundreds of recipes to choose from. This is a delightful way to introduce your children to some of your family’s heritage and have delicious cookies to eat when you are through. Here are a few wonderful examples:
Australia-If your family hails from Down Under (or even if you just want to visit there) consider making these delicious cookies. It is fun to note that despite the name, Christmas is a summer holiday in Australia.
White Christmas
3 cups Rice Krispies
1 cup coconut
3/4 cup powdered milk
1/2 cup powdered sugar
60 g (2 oz) mixed candied fruit, chopped
60 g (2 oz) red and green candied cherries, chopped
1/4 cup raisins
125 g (4.5 oz) white vegetable shortening
125 g (4.5 oz) white chocolate chips
Brush a 9 x 13" pan with oil. Combine Rice Krispies, coconut, powdered milk, powdered sugar, and all fruit in a large bowl. Melt the shortening with the chocolate in the top of a double boiler over simmering water. Stir until mixture is melted and smooth. Combine chocolate/shortening and Rice Krispies mixture. Press into the prepared pan and refrigerate until set. Remove from the pan; allow to cool for 10 minutes. Cut into squares with a sharp knife.