One big part of Christmas in my family is the baking, especially the cookies. We have some that are an absolute requirement and others that are made if there is time. Here's my top ten list:
10 Favorite Christmas Cookies
1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls- these are the most requested cookies in the house. Crunchy peanut butter and rice krispie insides drenched with chocolate. The year I entered these in the company bake-off (and won) I had a to make a second batch for the contest because my husband refused to let them leave the house.
2. Gingerbread cookies- a seasonal must. With or without the frosting.
3. Pizzelles- I have the iron and have inherited the task of making these since my grandmother passed away. In our family we don't add the anise flavoring, though occasionally we will dust them with confectioners sugar.
4. Butterballs-rich, tiny and delightful.
5. Chocolate balls/Whiskey balls- I can do these with or without the raisins but they are a must have part of the season. I remember that when I was little Mom would make a batch without the whiskey for the kids. Making these is how I learned about shot glasses and what 'a stiff shot' means.
6. Spritz Cookies- simple and wonderful....and addictive.
7. The Peanut Butter Ones with the Hershey's Kisses- not really Christmas cookies but I like them anyway.
8. Thumbprints- Oh yeah...with raspberry jam, though equally good other jellies. And the crushed nuts are a must.
9. Plain old frosted sugar cookies- classic and fun. I have quite the collection of cookie cutters and I'm looking forward to using them with the kids as they grow up.
10. Peppermint bark- not a cookie, per se, but a must have part of the season. I'm addicted to mint/chocolate combination.
