How to Bake Designer Sugar Cookies

You have the perfect sugar cookie recipe. You've made the cookie dough and you've tried to cut out the cookies, but it just doesn't quite work. They stick, they tear, they lose their shape. No more! Here are some tips that will have you making sugar cookies that look like a pro made them.

The first step to the perfect cut out cookie is to make the dough and then refrigerate it preferably overnight. At the very least, the dough has to be chilled for a couple of hours. You know the dough is just right to work with when you really have to "mash" it to flatten it out. You absolutely cannot cut out cookies when the dough is freshly made - don't even try it.

\"Decorated Cookies\"

If you are in a mad rush and have to have some cookies pronto, you can take a cookie sheet, line it with parchment paper, put a blob of dough on it, cover it with another sheet of parchment and then roll it out to 1/4 inch thick. Then take the cookie sheet and place it in the freezer for about fifteen minutes. Continue to do this with several cookie sheets and you should have enough dough to work with shortly.

How to Bake Designer Sugar Cookies

Now, if you aren't in a mad rush, get your dough good and cold. When you are ready to make the cookies, preheat the oven to 400. Make sure your oven heats up for at least 30 minutes - not just until the oven reads 400 degrees. The reason being is that your oven may not be heated to 400 in the center of the oven and will cause your cookies to bake unevenly.

Take out of the refrigerator only the amount of dough that you are going to work with at one time. Leave the rest of the dough in the refrigerator so it doesn't get warm or you will be right back where you started.

"Flour" your work surface with confectioners sugar. Yes, you can use regular flour, but the sugar adds an extra sweetness that tastes great. Also rub your rolling pin with confectioners sugar. Roll your dough to approximately 1/4" thick. If you are going to be making cookie bouquets, they need to be 1/2" thick.

Dip your cookie cutter in confectioners sugar and place it on your dough and press down to cut it out. Before you lift the cookie cutter, give it a little jiggle, wiggleing the cookie cutter back and forth. Do this until you can't get anymore cookies out of the dough that you have rolled out. Begin picking up the dough that surrounds the cut outs. Mash the dough back into a ball and put it back in the refrigerator with the other dough that is chilling.

Use a spatula that is thin, preferably a metal spatula not a rubber spatula to lift your cookies onto the cookie sheet. Rubber spatulas tend to be thicker on the end and will mash and distort your cookie. Using a thin-edged metal spatula place your cookies on the cookie sheet that has been lined with parchment paper about 1" apart. If you have chosen the proper sugar cookie recipe, they shouldn't puff up or spread.

Bake your cookies for 7 1/2 minutes at 400 degrees or just until the edges are golden brown. Remove the cookie sheet and let your cookies cool for just a minuet. Taking your metal spatula again, ligtly loosen the cookies from the parchment paper without moving them. Let the cool on the cookies sheet until they are ready for you to decorate.

How to Bake Designer Sugar Cookies

Quick and Easy Holiday Desserts

These simple and stress-free dessert ideas will have you out of the kitchen in no time and enjoying the holiday season.

1. Banana Coconut Cream Pie. Slice two bananas and layer half on the bottom of a prepared graham cracker crust. Prepare two packages of instant vanilla pudding according to package directions for pie filling. Stir 2 cups whipped topping into pie filling. Spread half of this mixture over bananas. Layer remaining bananas and then rest of pie filling. Top with 1 cup toasted coconut. Chill about two hours or until set.

\"Decorated Cookies\"

2. Mini Pies. Using two prepared pie crusts, cut three inch circles (I use the top of a glass as my "cutter"). Fit each pie crust into a muffin cup. Prick the pie bottoms and bake according to package directions. After pie crusts are cooled, fill with assorted pudding flavors. Use either package mixes or even easier, already prepared pudding flavors. Top each pie with fresh fruit, chocolate chips, nuts, sprinkles or chopped candies depending on the pudding flavor.

Quick and Easy Holiday Desserts

3. Mini Tarts. Fill mini phyllo cups with fresh fruit and whipped topping.

4. Parfait Cups. Layer berries and whipped topping in small plastic cups. For a more formal presentation use wine or cordial glasses.

5. Mini Cheesecakes. Prepare a no bake cheesecake mix according to package directions but instead of using a pie plate, divide mix evenly among 12 cupcake papers. Top with fresh fruit, pie filling or candy morsels.

6. Decorated Cookies. Mix confectioner's sugar and a small amount of milk until spreading consistency. Use to frost store bought sugar cookies. Decorate with seasonal sprinkles or sugars.

7. Chocolate Strawberries. Wash and dry 1 pint of fresh strawberries. Chill for 20 minutes. In a microwavable bowl melt 12 oz. milk chocolate and 1 tsp shortening at 15 second intervals until melted, stirring each time. Dip strawberries into milk chocolate covering half of the fruit. Place on foil lined baking sheet and cool in refrigerator.

8. Gourmet Brownies. Prepare one box of brownie mix. Add to prepared mix 6 ounces of chocolate chips. Spread in pan. Top with 1 cup chopped nuts. Bake according to package directions.

9. Chocolate Nut Fudge. Combine a 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk and 12 ounces of chocolate chips in a bowl. Microwave one minute. Stir until smooth. Add ½ cup chopped nuts. Pour into a greased 8 X 8 pan. Chill until firm.

10. Cupcakes. Using a simple box mix, prepare cupcakes according to package directions. Frost with ready-made frosting. Use seasonal colored sprinkles to decorate in holiday colors.

Quick and Easy Holiday Desserts

Mary Crowther is a writer, webmaster and cook. Visit her successful website KitchenTerms.com

Sugar Cookies - Make Your Cookies Vanish

Is it your turn to bring refreshments for your mystery book club - which just happens to be reading a culinary mystery? "One Tough Cookie" by Diane Mott Davidson surely calls for a cookie treat - although hopefully not a tough one! The versatile sugar cookie will give you a chance to show your fellow mystery-lovers that you have just as many tasty talents as Goldy Schultz, the catering, mystery-solving heroine of " One Tough Cookie!"

You don't have to be a detective to find over a million and a half results for a "sugar cookie recipe" search on the Internet. You can add yummy ingredients like lemon, sour cream or chocolate or, using cookie cutters, bake them into any shape that fits your needs (I'll bet you could even find a cookie cutter or two related to books!)

\"Decorated Cookies\"

There's even a National Sugar Cookie Day (July 9) - I'll bet that was a mystery to you until now!

Sugar Cookies - Make Your Cookies Vanish

One thing that isn't mysterious about sugar cookie recipes - they all contain butter (or margarine), sugar and flour in some combination.

Sugar cookies made with margarine have a much longer shelf-life (up to 30 days) than butter-based dough (only about 7 days). Let's face it though - offer your cookies to women already hungry from reading about Goldy Schultz's appetizing creations and shelf life won't be important anyway!

Once you've chosen your recipe, roll out the dough and cut into shapes. Now, your decorating skills have a chance to shine!

Colorful toppings for the tasty sugar cookie include spectacular fondant, royal icing and glazes. Any of these will make a cookie so grand that Goldy just might decide to steal your recipe!

To really impress your friends with an eye-catching cookie, try using fondant. It's quick and easy to roll and then cut to custom tailor a colorful coat for your cookies. Here's some tips for a sugar cookie even Goldy would be proud to serve.

Fondant can be purchased ready-made or you can make your own at home. Either type can easily be colored. You can do this one of two ways: If you're making the fondant from scratch and you want the whole batch to be one color, you can add the food coloring with the water when mixing the recipe.

If you're using ready-made fondant or you want to color one batch several different colors, add a fine stripe of gel paste color to a lump of fondant and knead in the color.

Specialty food colors should be available at your local baking supply store, but if not, they are easily ordered online.

Once the fondant is mixed and colored, it's one of the easiest and quickest ways to decorate your cookies.

Simply roll the fondant out to the desired thickness and cut out shapes using cookie cutters. Trim to fit cookie and gently lay onto face of cookie.

Certain types of fondant will stick to the cookie without any help, but if you find the fondant is slipping about, brush the surface of the cookie with a little vanilla extract or piping gel.

For a textured effect, try using an embossed fondant roller on the fondant before you cut it out. For an even more dazzling effect, add some pearl luster dust for shimmer - this really makes the embossing stand out.

One final sugar cookie hint, especially useful if you are prone to cookie baking emergencies! Why not make extra dough and save it for a time when you're in a rush to product a culinary delight.

Wrap leftover dough in plastic wrap, and seal it in a zip-top bag. The dough can stay frozen for up to two months. Just allow for defrosting time before you use it - usually overnight in the refrigerator will do.

Maybe you should write a culinary mystery yourself. Call it "The Case of the Vanishing Sugar Cookie!" because once the group tastes these beautifully decorated sweet treats, there won't be even one left!

Sugar Cookies - Make Your Cookies Vanish

Samantha Mitchell, Co-Author Cookie Decorating Made Easy! Vol. 1 & 2 The World's First Cookie Decorating Video Books. Your cookies most certainly won’t be “tough” if you sign up for our free newsletter at http://www.CookiesMadeEasy.com Get hassle free cookie tips, along with cookie decorating tips and online videos delivered straight to your inbox.

Christmas Cookies - Coconut Cookies

Coconut is one of those ingredients that seems to get little attention until the holidays roll around. Here are some recipes that you will want to keep handy all year.

Coconut Macaroons You can whip these favorites up in minutes so keep the ingredients on hand in your pantry for a quick, freshly baked treat any time.

Cookies

You will need:

Christmas Cookies - Coconut Cookies

2 1/2 cups flaked coconut

1/3 cup flour (all-purpose)

1/8 teaspoon salt

2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

Combine the coconut, flour and salt. Add the milk and vanilla. Mixture will be a little stiff. Drop by tablespoonfuls 1 inch apart on a greased or parchment lined baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F. for 15 - 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool. Now, wasn't that easy? Yield about 36 cookies.

Try Cherry Snowballs, a classic Christmas treat. You will need:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup quick cooking oats
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 36 maraschino cherries, well drained.

For the coating you will need

• 2 cups confectioners' sugar
• 2/4 to 1/3 cup milk
• 2 cups flaked coconut, finely chopped

To make the cookie, cream the butter, sugar, water and vanilla. Combine the flour, oats and salt and gradually add to the creamed mixture.

Shape about a tablespoon full of dough around a cherry, forming a ball. Place 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F. for about 18-20 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned. Remove to a wire rack to cool.

While cookies cool, make the coating by combining the sugar, and milk to achieve a smooth dipping consistency. Dip cookies and roll in the chopped coconut. Let set and finish cooling. Makes about 36 cookies.

Prefer a little chocolate with your coconut? Here are Chocolate Coconut Neapolitans that you are sure to love. To make these cookies you will need:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 4 drops of red food coloring
• 1/2 cup flaked coconut, finely chopped
• 4 1/2 teaspoons chocolate syrup
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 1/2 teaspoons shortening

Line a 9 by 5 by 3 inch loaf pan with waxed paper and set aside.

In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt and gradually add to the creamed mixture, mixing well.

Divide the dough into thirds. Add almond extract and red food color to one portion, spread evenly into the prepared pan.

Add coconut to the second portion and spread evenly over the third layer.

Add the chocolate syrup to the third portion and spread over the second layer.

Cover with foil and freeze for 4 hours or overnight.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. You will also need ungreased cookie sheets or sheets lined with parchment paper.

Unwrap the loaf and cut in half lengthwise. Cut each portion across the width into 1/4 inch slices. Place 2 inches apart on a baking sheet and bake for 12 - 14 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

In a microwave, melt chocolate chips and shortening. Stir until blended and smooth. Dip one end of each cooled cookie into chocolate and place on wire racks set over wax paper(to catch drips).

Recipe makes about 5 dozen cookies. Store in a single layer between sheets of wax paper in an air-tight container.

For all you caramel lovers, here is one for you. Caramel Coconut Heavenly Cookies are easy to make and impressive on the Christmas cookie platter. Great cookie to make with kids and be careful, they are addictive.

You will need:

• 12 graham crackers (4 3/4 by 2 1/2 inches)
• 2 cups miniature marshmallows
• 3/4 cup butter
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup flaked coconut

To make these cookie bars live a 15 by 10 inch baking pan with foil. Let the kids place graham crackers in the bottom and cover with the marshmallows. Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium ht cook and stir the butter, sugar and cinnamon until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

Spoon this heated mixture over the marshmallows. The children can then sprinkle the almonds and coconut over the top.

Bake at 350 degrees F. for 14 - 16 minutes or until browned. Cool completely and then cut into 2 inch squares. Cut each square in half to form triangles. Makes about 6 dozen. You could also drizzle a ribbon of melted chocolate chips over the top. Try this with butterscotch chips. Yummy.

Here is one more that you surely will want to include the Christmas. They are called Jeweled Coconut Crisps and they will add yet one more layer to your festive table, that is if you can keep them around long enough.

You will need:

• 1 cup butter,softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup finely chopped red and green candied cherries
• 3/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup flaked coconut

To make the cookies cream the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl. Bear in the milk and vanilla. Stir in the flour, cherries and pecans.

Shape into two 8 inch logs. Sprinkle coconut onto wax paper, placing each log on the wax paper roll it in the coconut. Wrap each log and refrigerate several hours or until firm.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Cut the cookies from the logs making 1/4 inch slices. Place on ungreased or parchment paper lined baking sheets and bake for 10 - 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.

Cool on wire racks. You may wish to sprinkle warm cookies with a dusting of confectioners' sugar, but this is optional. Makes about 5 dozen cookies.

With these few simple recipes and a few common ingredients you have just baked 22 dozen cookies that will delight your family and thrill your friends when you show up at the cookie exchange. Set out some of each at your next gathering for an instant holiday cookie platter. Hide some in air tight containers for later, and don't forget how delicious and easy these are when you are suddenly in the mood for a sweet treat any time of the year. Enjoy.

Christmas Cookies - Coconut Cookies

I am Barbara Cagle and I have been working and playing online since 1989. I am a certified teacher and as such I find that people are constantly asking me how to do ____. I started http://www.cagleonline.com in 2001 and it is now my internet portal where you can access information on a variety of subjects, find free products and resources, and get help for your business or just to make your life just a little bit easier.

At [http://www.caglecooksonline.com] you can download free cookbooks and find great lots of recipes. Check it out and don't miss the Master Site Index with links to all my online content. My Holiday cookbook is still available if you missed it and my newest cookbook, for Diabetics, is almost ready and will be available in time for Thanksgiving. So, head on over and see how I can help YOU today?

Cookie Press Cookies - The Perennial Christmas Cookie

Cookie Press Cookies, or Spritz cookies as they are sometimes called, have been a Christmas cookie treat since the 1600's. They are called "cookie press" because a press is used to form the cookies.

The word "spritz" comes from the German word "spritzen" which means "to squirt or spray". The word describes the action of the cookie press, which "squirts" the dough through a die giving the cookie its shape.

Cookies

If you've tried making spritz cookies without success in the past or if you're new to them the following information will guide you to making these delicious Christmas treats.

Cookie Press Cookies - The Perennial Christmas Cookie

Cookie Press Recipes

Most bakers that have had problems with their cookie press cookies are probably not at fault at all. More than likely it's the recipe they were using.

Spritz cookie dough has to have some unique qualities. First of all the dough has to be soft enough that it will go through the press with no problems.

The fact that it has to be soft could present the second problem. It must hold it's shape in the oven or it will lose its design.

On top of these two problems is that it has to taste good!

That eliminates some of the tricks some bakers' use for shape holding like using shortening for the fat. For great cookie flavor butter should be the fat in Cookie Press Cookies!

This is a good basic recipe that will produce beautiful Christmas spritz cookies.

Basic Spritz Cookie Recipe

Ingredients

1 large egg yolk
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened (about 70 degrees)
2/3 cup sugar (about 4-3/4 ounces)
1/4 teaspoon table salt
2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour (10 ounces)

Instructions

Adjust your oven rack to the middle position and heat the oven to 375 degrees.

In small bowl, beat yolk, cream, and vanilla with fork until combined; set aside.

In stand mixer cream the butter, sugar, and salt at medium-high speed until light and fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes. Scrape down the bowl with a rubber spatula.

With the mixer running at medium speed, add the yolk and cream mixture and beat until incorporated, about 30 seconds. Scrape down the bowl.

With the mixer running at low speed gradually beat in the flour a little at a time until combined.

Scrape down the bowl and give a final stir with a rubber spatula to ensure that no flour pockets remain.

Load up your cookie press and press out the cookies spacing them about 1 1/2 inches apart.

Bake one sheet at a time until the cookies are light golden brown, 10 to 12 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through the baking time.

Cool the cookies on the baking sheet until just warm, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove the cookies from the sheet with a metal spatula and transfer to a wire rack and cool to room temperature.

Some words of caution!

This cookie recipe works perfectly fine. However there are some variables that can't be solved by a recipe. Those variables are in your own kitchen.

Oven thermostats are notoriously inaccurate! The temperature of your oven must be 375 degrees for the cookies to setup before the melting butter makes them spread.

If your cookies spread too much check your oven with an oven thermometer.

In addition to oven temperature the cookies will spread too much if you have whipped too much air into the dough. When you are creaming the butter and sugar be sure and not over whip.

Also combine the dry ingredients with the wet just until mixed thoroughly.

A warm cookie sheet will cause your cookies to spread excessively. Be sure your sheet is completely cooled before you do a second batch. You can pop it in the fridge for a few minutes if necessary.

Expand Your Cookie Press Cookies Repertoire

Once you have the basic procedure for spritz cookies down pat you can expand your repertoire.

The flavors and decorations possibilities for these cookies are almost unlimited. And with good recipes you can make Christmas Cookie Baking go like a flash.

Cookie Press Cookies - The Perennial Christmas Cookie

There are a lot of recipes, baking tips and decorating tips in the Cookie Press Recipes section of Jim Bolding's website http://www.cookie-recipe-club.com.

4 Steps to a Perfect Baptism Party

1. Begin with baptism-themed invitations:

• For customized invitations, there are a number of online sites that offer designs from the simple to the elaborate. Many allow you to upload a photo and create a photo card with your invitation. If you know the colors you wish to use with your decorations, use those in the invitations as well. This will help draw the entire party together.
• If you are creative and wish to make the invitations yourself, you can purchase a kit online or buy all the materials you need individually at a craft store (look for coupons in your Sunday paper to bring the cost down significantly). You'll want colored paper (glossy often looks more elegant), ribbon, envelopes, and stickers or embossments to seal the envelopes. Crosses, angels, baby feet, or even doves can be used as a theme, and matching stickers are easy to come by. (For a wide selection of sticker styles and colors, check out stickersgalore.com.)
• If you don't wish to order personalized invitations online or create your own, generic invitations can be purchased at local stores. You'll just need to write in the specifics of your party. (For one inexpensive option, search "baby baptism invitations" on target.com and you'll find invitations with matching thank you cards to send after the event.)

\"Decorated Cookies\"

2. Decorations set the mood for the celebration:

4 Steps to a Perfect Baptism Party

• Pastel colors accented with silver are frequently used for baptism parties. A search for "baptism tableware" will turn up numerous options for silverware, plates, cups, and napkins. You can then tie the napkins around silverware using colored ribbon to add more color.
• Table covers, streamers, flowers, banners, and balloons can also contribute to the color scheme and create a fun environment for the celebration.
• You can do double duty with your centerpiece and party favors by purchasing a Baptism Rosary Centerpiece. This centerpiece is actually comprised of individual rosary favors.

3. Food can come in a variety of options:

• First, decide if you'd like to serve a full meal, appetizers, or desserts. If you choose to have a meal, would you like people to sit down and be served, or would you prefer a buffet? Depending on what you choose, you may need place cards, people to serve the food, and a means to keep the food warm. You can rent buffet equipment from any party rental store in your area.
• Cakes and fruit punch are often a staple at baptism parties. You can order customized cakes at your local bakery. Cupcakes are also a fun and delicious option (don't hesitate to ask your supermarket bakery to bake and decorate them). Search online for wonderful 'fruit punch recipes' using that term exactly.

4. Make the moment last with baptism party favors

• You can provide meaningful favors that contribute to the religious and sacred nature of the event, such as rosary favors or baptism ornaments
• Edible favors, including photo cookies, decorated cookies with a cross or angel, and chocolate cross lollipops are fun for guests of all ages. You may choose to have them on the dessert table for guests to take as they leave, or they may be placed near the exit or on seats so everyone has access to them.
• A third option would be to make your own favors. Perhaps you'd like to go to a craft store and buy small wooden frames which you decorate yourself and fill with pictures of your child. Or make your own cookie favors, put them in a cellophane bag (found at any craft store) and tie with a pretty ribbon. The possibilities are endless.

4 Steps to a Perfect Baptism Party

Cassandra Biele is an event planner specializing in religious celebrations. She highly recommends the Baptism Favors offered at DivaEntertains.com

Using Stories in the Preschool ESL Classroom

Do you want to start using stories in the preschool ESL classroom but don't know where to start? There are many great pre-k activities for ESL classrooms, including games, but it's also very important to not discount the power of stories. Whether you're reading a classic book, making up a story as you go along or designing a story specifically for a particular lesson, you'll want to be sure to include stories in the preschool ESL class every day.

One of the reasons why stories work so well in the ESL preschool classroom has to do with intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation is the theory that people are motivated by internal factors. Children of preschool age do not understand the external factors that might motivate an adult to decide to learn a second language, so as a teacher it's up to you to create a classroom that internally motivates them to participate in the activities and, ultimately, learn the language you are teaching.

\"Decorated Cookies\"

Stories are perfect for teaching young ESL students because children already love stories and are already motivated at the thought of listening to one. In addition to that, when children listen to the stories, they are able to internalise the language structure and will eventually begin recognize words and phrases they hear in the stories. Besides, there are so many ways to use them in the classroom that the possibilities with stories are practically endless. Here are some possibilities on how you can use stories in your classroom:

Using Stories in the Preschool ESL Classroom

Teach Vocabulary

Before you use a story in the ESL preschool classroom, you'll need to teach the students the key vocabulary words to they are able to follow the story. Thus the story can serve as a basis for drawing vocabulary words. It goes deeper than that, however. The students will not just "learn" the words, they will immediately see how the words are used and hear them in context of the language. This is so much more beneficial to the students than simply memorizing a list of words.

Vary Your Classroom Activities

Telling a story adds variety to your lessons in terms of content and pace. Preschoolers don't have a terribly long attention span, so you'll want to vary your activities throughout the class period. Changing your activities every five to ten minutes is appropriate for this age group - and that's a great length of time to spend telling a story. Furthermore, preschool students have a ton of energy, so you'll want to have some activities that allow them to burn this energy. To keep the class from getting out of control, use a story after a boisterous activity to allow everyone enough time to settle down before moving onto something else. Remember also that you can tell the same stories over and over again.

Be Creative

Whenever you tell a story allow your creativity show through. Have fun with it and go with the flow. Make animal sounds, change your voice, sing little songs and, most of all, use gestures. You might even be able to get some of your students to go along with you when it comes to animal sounds, songs and gestures.

Introduce Other Activities

Stories are a great jumping board for other activities. Here is just a sampling of activities you could do following a story:

* Give each student a picture that depicts the events of the story and have them line up in order of the events.

* Have the students come up with a title for the story. Allow as many titles as students who'd like to share one.

* Repeat quotes from the story and ask the students "Who said it?"

* Leave off the ending of the story and have the students predict what they think will happen. Then, read the ending of the story.

* Encourage the children to look for patterns in the story. Have them guess, for example, what the character will say if there is a pattern in what the character says.

* Teach them a song that goes along with the theme of the story.

* Teach them actions to go along with the songs.

* Let them act out parts of the story.

* Set up stations that allow them to dress up like characters in the story and do things the characters in the story did. So, if the characters in the story decorated cookies, give them some time to decorate cookies.

* Tell a story to introduce a new unit.

* Give the students three events in the story and ask them what came first.

* Have the students draw a picture about their favourite part of the story and then explain it to the class.

* Let the students tell about a similar experience they might have had.

There are so many things you can do with stories in the ESL classroom. Just let your imagination go and soon so will the imaginations of your students! If you want some ideas to help you get started, just visit the link in the box below the article for some free materials on using games in the preschool classroom.

Using Stories in the Preschool ESL Classroom

Shelley Vernon has helped 1000s of teachers be an inspiration to their pupils. Improve the effectiveness of your lessons and enjoy yourself more. Receive free games and a story for preschoolers now on Preschool ESL games and stories website.

Gifts for Baby Shower Game Winners

As you plan your baby shower, you need to consider what to buy for prizes for the games you will play. When you buy gifts for baby shower games, you need to know how many games you play, how many winners you will have and whether you want every guest to win something. All of these factors will dictate what you will buy and how many you will need.

What better way to reward your guests than to give them something to snack on. If you purchase customized fortune cookies, you can give them to everyone, whether they win or lose. Because you can customize the message inside, you can also use the fortune cookies as a game themselves. You can purchase a few with the term "winner" printed inside and the others can have cute ways of telling people they haven't won. The guests crack them open and find out if they won.

\"Decorated Cookies\"

If you want to provide bigger gifts for baby shower games, you can buy many of the same things you can give away as favors. For instance, you can buy an assortment of picture frames, candles and other trinkets. Wrap each item up separately in matching paper and place them on one table. When your guests win, they can then pick one of the gifts from the table. Make sure you have enough to go around for all of the winners, keeping in mind that some games may have more than one winner. Otherwise, you will need a tie-breaker process in place.

Gifts for Baby Shower Game Winners

You can also purchase something to give to those who lose the game. An inexpensive option to give to those who don't win is a small package of bath confetti. You can buy these packages of bath confetti imprinted with a cute saying about the fact that not everyone can win, but you wanted to thank them for playing the game. This ensures that everyone gets something to take home.

Buying gifts for baby shower games involves planning ahead so you know how many to get. You can provide your guests with a tasty treat as a reward or even use them to play a game. If you want something a little nicer for the winners, buy an assortment of some of the nicer shower favors to give to the winners. It is also nice to provide something, even if it is a small something, to all of your guests so no one goes home empty handed.

Gifts for Baby Shower Game Winners

To browse your options for gifts for baby shower games, visit ABCFavors.com, an online magical store to buy personalized baby shower favors.

Common Types of Cookies

Everyone loves home-baked cookies. Nothing is more welcoming than the smell of freshly baked cookies or the sight of them cooling on the counter. It's my favorite kind of aromatherapy.

Cookies have a long history, dating back to 7th Century Persia. By the 1800s, cookie recipes began appearing in cookbooks as 'small cakes.' In fact, the term 'cookie' comes from the Dutch word koekje or koekie which means little cake.

Cookies

Recipes for cookies in a variety of styles and flavors increased in the early 1900s and continues today. Cookies are the most common treat baked in home kitchens and it's estimated that more than half of all home baked cookies are chocolate chip.

Common Types of Cookies

But there are a lot more kinds of cookies out there waiting to be baked. Most cookbooks classify them by how they are formed into the following categories or types of cookies:

Bar Cookies, Squares, or Pan Cookies
The quickest and easiest type of cookie to make. Batter or dough is pressed or spread into a pan and cut into bite-size pieces after baking. Brownies are the classic example of a batter-type bar cookie but they come in a variety of styles and flavors.

Drop Cookies
By far the most common type of homemade cookie created by dropping or pushing cookie dough from a teaspoon or tablespoon onto a prepared cookie sheet. Just mix, drop, bake, and enjoy -- definitely an easy cookie type. Popular examples of drop cookies include oatmeal raisin, peanut butter, and chocolate chip.

No Bake Cookies
Another easy cookie, no bakes don't require an oven. They are a great way to introduce kids to the fun of cookie making. Some of my favorite no bake cookie recipes include rice krispie bars, coconut date balls, rum balls, and peanut butter bars.

Ice Box or Refrigerator Cookies
Originally referred to as "ice box cookies," made from stiff dough that is refrigerated and usually formed into a cylinder before slicing and baking. Contemporary cookbooks may categorize refrigerator cookies as sliced or slice and bake cookies. You can keep a log of cookie dough in the refrigerator or freezer then slice, bake, and enjoy a warm, fresh from the oven, homemade cookie whenever a cookie craving strikes.

Shaped Cookies
These cookies are shaped by hand or with molds or extruded from a cookie press or pastry bag. Shortbread is a classic example of a hand shaped cookie. There are also lots of popular holiday "spritz" cookies that require a special cookie press.

Whichever type of cookie you choose to make, friends and family are sure to applaud your efforts.

Common Types of Cookies

Martha McKinnon is an avid home cook and cooking instructor who loves sharing everything she has learned through her years in the kitchen with all who are interested.

Her website, http://www.best-ever-cookie-collection.com is dedicated to publishing the best cookie recipes.

And her blog, http://www.simple-nourished-living.com explores easy recipes, tips, and hints.

Peacock Wedding Favors - Homemade and Purchased - Your Guide

The peacock, because of its symbolism and beauty, is fast becoming a top wedding theme in North America. It has long been popular for weddings in different cultures and countries (India, for example). The peacock itself represents royalty, wealth and knowledge whiles its rich, vibrant colors of green, royal and turquoise blue, purple and gold are gorgeous when incorporated into wedding decor and favors.

Homemade: I'm going to talk about 3 types of homemade peacock favors:

\"Decorated Cookies\"

1) Favors given in a favor bag or box that is the color of one of many colors found on a peacock feather. Craft stores offer a large selection of favor bags and boxes, primarily found in the wedding section (organza bags and small favor boxes). There are also larger, colored paper bags found in the gift wrap section. To further decorate you can attach the eye of an actual peacock feather (and a bit of the stem) to the box or bag with a glue dot (again, found at craft stores and easy to use). Craft and floral stores have peacock feathers for purchase and there are several stores online that offer them in bulk. Simply type "Bulk Peacock Feathers" in a search to find sources.

Peacock Wedding Favors - Homemade and Purchased - Your Guide

2) Everybody loves to receive an edible favor and a peacock shaped cookie would be a much appreciated 'thank you'. You can find easily find an online source for a cookie cutter. Then find a reliable and delicious recipe for a sugar cookie and icing. Our favorite can be found at the bottom of this article. To frost, use an easy technique called "flooding" to decorate in one or more vibrant, peacock-inspired colors. To learn how to flood cookies go to google.com and type in "how to flood cookies"; the results given will provide many easy-to-understand videos and tutorials. Once the frosting hardens (I recommend letting them sitting overnight) put them individually into cello bags and tie with a pretty colored ribbon.

3) Add a themed favor tag to the favor of your choice? To do this go to google.com/images and type in peacock (or peacock feather) and select an image that you love. Copy it onto a word or powerpoint (or similar) document and copy it as many times it will fit on a page. Buy white or ivory cardstock and print on it. Cut out the shapes by hand and, with a hole punch, punch out a hole to put satin ribbon through for hanging. It's also lovely to hand stamp the back of the image with a "Thank You" rubber stamp. To find, look in the bins at craft stores (stamps and ink).

Purchased: Peacock wedding favors available for purchase continue to grow. You can give a keepsake favor such as a magnet featuring the bird or a feather; we recommend glass magnets for a higher quality gift. Christmas ornaments personalized in the theme are also lovely favors.

Edible favors include decorated sugar cookies (easily found via an online search), or white chocolate dipped oreos or graham crackers that have edible images (as well as text) on them. There are also cookie pops which are regular cookies dressed up in fancy, personalized, theme packaging. You can also find beautiful candy wrappers in this theme to wrap around Hershey bars; some are available as place cards too.

Several stores offer beautiful, personalized peacock favor boxes. Make sure you look for reviews from customers to ensure that the ones you purchase are professionally produced. Fill them with small candies, chocolate truffles, a scented votive candle or other small item.

This recipe is adapted from Penny McConnell who has a wholesale cookie business and sells decorated cookies to Starbucks. I have made the cookies and they are great. Very little spread, if any. You can roll them very thin if you like crunchy cookies or make them a bit thicker. She recommends baking on parchment paper. Be sure to add ALL the flavoring specified. It is a lot, but makes all the difference in the world.

Penny's Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter

1 cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

2 Tbsp whipping cream (can use half and half)

2 Tablespoon pure vanilla

1 tsp pure almond extract

½ tsp. salt

3 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a mixer combine butter and sugar. Beat only until combined and no lumps of butter remain. DON'T cream until fluffy.

Add egg, cream, vanilla and almond extract all at once and thoroughly blend. The mixture will look curdled but that's how it should.

In a separate bowl, stir together the flour and baking powder. Add the mixture to the wet ingredients and blend.

Roll out to a thickness of ½-¼" inch and cut with a cookie cutter. Bake on parchment sheets for 8-12 minutes (depending on thickness and size of cutters) and cool on a rack. Makes about 3 dozen cookies depending on cutter size.

Dough does not need to be chilled before using

This is the best cookie icing I have ever used and it hardens nicely for bagging but is not rock hard like royal icing. You will love it.

Sugar Baby Frosting

1 32 oz. pkg. confectioners' sugar, sifted

1/3 cup evaporated skimmed milk

1/3 cup white corn syrup

1 teaspoon pure vanilla

1/3 cup water, boiling

Combine milk, syrup and vanilla in a saucepan over heat and add boiling water. Blend together with electric mixer. Add confectioners sugar and continue mixing until smooth. The frosting consistency is similar to a glaze. Color with powdered food coloring for decorating cookies.

You may purchase the powdered food coloring at cake decorating specialty stores, Walmart cake decorating department, or Hobby Lobby cake decorating department.

Copyright Diva Entertains, 2012

Peacock Wedding Favors - Homemade and Purchased - Your Guide

Deb Rosenberg is an avid entertains and has designed an exclusive line of beautiful peacock wedding favors offered only at DivaEntertains.com.

History of Peanut Butter Cookies

Gourmet peanut butter cookies are delicious, but where did they come from?

Since ancient times, people have enjoyed nuts in their cookies. In old times they would bake small cakes with crushed nuts in them. The Romans spread this type of treat throughout Europe. These ancient cakes weren't like the cookies that we enjoy today.

Cookies

In medieval times bakers started using white sugar and their cookies more resembled the ones we eat today, but these did not include peanuts. They included other nuts that were known to them at the time. It would take many years before the peanut arrived in Europe.

History of Peanut Butter Cookies

The peanut is believed to have originated in South America approximately 3,000 years ago. This is supported by the fact that ancient jars featured decorations of peanuts and ancient graves contained jars of peanuts for their journey to the afterlife. When the Spanish arrived at the New World, they appreciated the peanut and brought it back to Europe. From there, it spread around the world.

Peanuts were first turned into butter at the turn of the 19th century. It was a who doctor concocted peanut butter as a health food. Now it could find its way into delicious cookies!

It was sometime during the 1920s or 1930s that it first showed up in cookie recipes. Many believe it was a Pilsbury cookbook that taught us to make peanut butter balls, and them smash them into cookies using a fork. This is thought to be due to the higher density of the dough. Since then people have been enjoying peanut butter cookies of all kinds.

The pinnacle today is the gourmet peanut butter cookie. They can be loaded with all types of extras. Our cookies include chocolate chips or chocolate chunks.

History of Peanut Butter Cookies

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Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes - Candied Fruit Cookies

A festive cookie featuring candied fruit and almonds.

1/2 cup butter, softened

Cookies

3/4 cup sugar

Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes - Candied Fruit Cookies

1 egg

1 1/4 cup all purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 1/2 cups pitted dates, chopped

1/2 cup each candied cherries and pineapple, chopped

3/4 cup Brazil nuts, coarsely chopped and toasted

3/4 cup almonds, chopped and toasted

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Prepare baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray.

In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Add in the egg; mix well.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon; gradually add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Fold in the fruits and nuts.

Drop by teaspoonfuls 2-inches apart onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly browned. Let cool completely.

Makes 84 cookies.

=> Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes: Chips Galore Cookies

These cookies are stuffed with a variety of yummy chips - a real treat.

1 cup butter flavored shortening

3/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups all purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1/3 cup peanut butter chips

1/3 cup butterscotch chips

1/3 cup vanilla or white chips

1/3 cup milk chocolate M&Ms

1/3 cup Reese's pieces candy

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a large bowl, cream together the shortening, sugar and brown sugar. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in the chips and candy pieces.

Bake 7 to 9 minutes, or until lightly browned around the edges. Let cool completely.

Makes 48 cookies.

=> Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes: Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies

Pumpkin cookies with a burst of chocolate chips.

4 cups all purpose flour

2 cups sugar

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 (16 oz.) can solid pack pumpkin

1 cup vegetable oil

2 eggs

2 tablespoons milk

2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup walnuts, chopped

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda and salt. Add in the pumpkin, oil, eggs, milk and vanilla; beat on medium speed until well mixed. Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts.

Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 13 to 14 minutes, or until edges begin to brown. Cool completely.

Makes 84 cookies.

Easy Christmas Cookie Recipes - Candied Fruit Cookies

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Homemade Ginger Snap Cookies Recipe

Old fashioned ginger snaps have a chewy center and are full of spicy ginger flavor that goes perfectly with a glass of raw goats or cows milk. The spices fill your kitchen and home with the smell of Christmas while the cookies are baking. Ginger has antioxidants and is an herbal aid for the digestion. What better way to help your digestive system than eating ginger snap cookies?

Homemade Ginger Snap Cookies Recipe

Cookies

1 cup packed raw dark brown sugar
¾ cup lard from pastured pigs
¼ cup blackstrap molasses
1 egg from pastured hens
2 ¼ cups unbleached flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon up to 1 tablespoon ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon up to 1 teaspoon cloves
¼ teaspoon sea salt
Dehydrated cane sugar

Homemade Ginger Snap Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Mix together the brown sugar, lard, molasses and egg until creamy.

Step 2: In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and sea salt. Stir a little at a time into the sugar mixture until well blended. Cover and refrigerate 1 hour or more.

Step 3: Preheat oven to 375°.

Step 4: Using a teaspoon, scoop up dough into rounded balls and dip into the dehydrated cane sugar. Place the balls of dough, sugar side up, onto a greased (with lard) cookie sheet. Bake 10-12 minutes just until set. Remove from the cookie sheet onto a platter and let cool.

These cookies are chewy and delicious. And they contain the natural sugars and molasses that still have the minerals and vitamins intact, and a healthy fat that nourishes our bodies. The spices not only promote health, they are delicious and make your house smell better than using candles.

©2009 Shanna Ohmes

Homemade Ginger Snap Cookies Recipe

Discover more natural foods and how to prepare them by clicking the following link The Natural Living Site

Need Valentine-Themed Wedding Shower Ideas?

What better time to have a Valentine-theme bridal shower than the early spring and Valentine's Day? So here are some ideas to help you plan this very special day for your friend's bridal party.

Let's start with an inviting and pretty color scheme which should be carried on from the invitations, to table decor, food, drinks and guest favors. So here we go.

\"Decorated Cookies\"

Color Scheme Suggestions

Need Valentine-Themed Wedding Shower Ideas?

Try shades of pink from the softest powder to a lovely fushia and use hints of lilac, baby blue or soft yellow for a stunning color theme.

Shower Invitations

In introducing the Valentine theme to your guests invitations are the perfect way to do it.

1. Envelopes and invitations mixing and matching the shower's color theme
2. Heart-shaped confetti sprinkled inside the envelope.
3. Punch a heart-shaped hole in the envelope alongside the guest's name showing the contrasting color of the card placed inside.

Guest Favors

1. For a scented favor use heart-shaped silk or satin sachets
2. Heart-shaped votive candles wrapped in organza or tulle and tied with a satin ribbon
3. Chocolates in heart shapes or just nicely boxed is always perfect for a Valentine shower
4. A heart-shaped cookie cutter with a favorite recipe of the bride's and again tied in tulle

These are a few very appropriate favors for this shower theme.

Table Decor

A tablecloth of pink or red with an overlay of a lace cloth is gorgeous, or a red cloth and a table runner in a soft pink looks stunning.

Your napkins should match your tablecloth or decor and the plates and flatware should also match the Valentine theme.

Table Centerpiece Ideas

Find a not to tall vase around your house and fill it with red and pink carnations, or tulips or splurge on roses and drape lovely satin and lace ribbon down the sides to cover the vase.

Buy clear votive holders and candles in the colors you are using. Get red and white sprinkles and pour some in each votive holder. place the candle on top and make an attractive arrangement in the center of the table. Light the candles when it is time to serve the food.

Either of these are really lovely and rather inexpensive.

Valentine Shower Food Suggestions

Shower food should be light and attractive. You might have finger sandwiches cut with a heart-shaped cookie cutter for a special touch.

Crab filled mushroom or cherry tomatoes is also very nice and good finger food.

A light salad of romaine lettuce mixed with mandarin oranges and candied walnuts and a splash of raspberry vinaigrette is very refreshing.

Your dessert may be a heart-shaped decorated cake, Red velvet and pink iced cupcakes, heart-shaped decorated cookies, or anything that might be a favorite of the bride's.

A champagne or non alcoholic punch, freshly brewed coffee, and assorted teas can be served for the beverage.

Here's a Simple Party Game

Sure your guests may not want to play involved games, but who doesn't love a present? As your guests enter, have them write down their birthdays or wedding anniversaries, which ever they wish and just the month and day.

The guest whose date is closest to the wedding date wins a prize. The hostess can then copy down the birthdays and anniversaries in a nice birthday book for the bride, so she'll always know when to send a thoughtful card.

Prize Ideas for Game Winners

-Spa Gift Basket
-Bottles of Wine
-Fine Chocolates
-Mini Photo Frames
-Aromatic Candles
-Photo Albums

Since a Valentine Shower is romantic and personal you might want to have it a lingerie and/or personal gift shower.

Another idea is to have the guests bring things that the couple can enjoy as they start their life together such as gift cards for a favorite CD or video of a favorite movie or music they like.

Tickets to a place you know they both like and want to go.

Just remember this is the bride's most important time with her closest friends and family as they celebrate her coming wedding and their special bond with each other. Make it just that.

Need Valentine-Themed Wedding Shower Ideas?

For more about weddings and Wedding Bridal Shower check out Tiffany's blog.

Tiffany Cole has a huge passion for weddings and in particular likes to come up with creative ideas to create dream weddings without breaking the bank. If you'd like to see more of Tiffany's ideas, tips and tricks then you can go to her blog at http://InexpensiveWeddingIdeasGuide.com.

New Mexican Christmas Cookies - Biscochitos Recipe

Biscochitos are the official state cookie of New Mexico. Served traditionally at Christmas, at weddings, and any other celebration, biscochitos are a type of shortbread. Unlike traditional shortbread, however, this recipe can be a little tricky to make. After awhile, you learn to have a feel for the dough and it gets easier. It is worth the effort to learn to make these delicious little cookies.

Biscochitos have a long history that stretches all the way back to Spain. Known as Mantecosos across the Atlantic (that means buttery in Spanish), these little cookies are sometimes called Mexican Wedding cookies. In fact, the name of this delicious little cookie has caused quite a debate. In northern New Mexico, they are known as biscochitos and biscochos in the southern part of New Mexico. When this cookie was made the official state cookie in 1989, the state legislature had to debate on how to spell the name. The Senate finally decided on bizcochito, though you still see it with multiple spellings.

Cookies

Recipe for Biscochitos

New Mexican Christmas Cookies - Biscochitos Recipe

This delightful little cookie is perfect with coffee, tea or even a glass of wine.

What You Need

• 1 pound lard
• 1 heaping cup granulated sugar
• 2 to 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 teaspoons anise seed
• 6 cups flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/8 cup red wine
• 1/8 cup orange juice concentrate, partially thawed
• 4 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

How You Make It

Whip the lard with a mixer set on medium-high. The lard should become silky in texture; this will take up to 10 minutes. Add sugar and mix well with lard, scraping the sides of the bowl frequently.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly each time. Add salt and mix. Add the following ingredients in this order: anise, flour, baking powder. Continue to mix well. Add wine and orange juice concentrate. Beat the mixture until the dough pulls away from the sides of the mixing bowl.

Moisten your fingers and work surface. Roll out the dough between two pieces of plastic wrap. (Hint: It helps to lightly flour the bottom piece of plastic wrap.) Try to touch the dough as little as possible while you shape it into a rectangle and pat it until it is even. A marble rolling pin works best due to its weight and temperature for rolling. You want the dough to be about half an inch thick. Cut the dough into quarters. Dip each quarter into cinnamon sugar and set gently on a greased cookie sheet.

Using a small, sharp knife, cut each quarter into strips about 1-1/2 inches wide. Turn the tray and cut in the other direction so you end up with little squares. Make four tiny cuts toward the center of each piece. Using your thumb and forefinger, raise the edges towards the center, making a rosette.

Bake the cookies about 13 minutes or until the edges are browned. Your time may vary depending on the temperature of your oven. The finished cookies should be crisp.

New Mexican Christmas Cookies - Biscochitos Recipe

Mexican recipes like posole are wonderful holiday meals, but you certainly do not have to wait for a holiday to enjoy Mexican cuisine. Try some Mexican dessert recipes for a twist on the same old desserts you're used to. They're wonderful!

MexicanDessertRecipes.net The Sweet Side of Mexican Food

How to Make Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies can be soft, crunchy, or whatever you like, but a favorite of many is soft chocolate chip cookies. Making soft chocolate chip cookies is not hard if you just follow these tips that I will give you.

First you'll need to make the chocolate chip cookie dough. If you're looking for a good recipe, search around or use the recipe on the back of the bag of chocolate chips. This is usually a standard chocolate chip cookie recipe.

Cookies

Mix together the sugars and butter thoroughly. Use an electric mixer to do it fast and well. Don't be until it's really fluffy, just combine to remove all lumps of butter and/or sugar. Then add in the eggs and vanilla.

How to Make Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

This step is important to get soft chocolate chip cookies. Do not beat the batter with the eggs so that it becomes fluffy and airy. You are not trying to make a cake or a meringue. Just stir until combined and that is it.

Next, in a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir it with a spoon and sift according to the instructions. If it says sifted flour sift it and then measure it. If is says flour sifted, measure it and then sifted it. This makes sure that you get the right amount of flour.

Now you can gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Add a little bit out of time and mix in thoroughly. Again, there is no need to be just mix it completely. Then stir in the chocolate chips.

Refrigerate the dough for at least two hours or preferably overnight. Preheat the oven to make sure it is completely heated before you put the cookies in. Roll the cookie dough into 2 inch balls and place then about 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheet. Make sure the cookie she is not warm especially between batches. Put the cookie sheet in a refrigerator beforehand to make a cold to ensure that it's not warm.

Bake according to the instructions until very lightly golden brown across the whole cookie. You do not want dark brown or it will be hard and crunchy. Still, make sure you cook all the way or else it will just be gooey dough instead of soft cookie and gooey chocolate.

How to Make Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

Learn how to make soft chocolate chip cookies and find more information about how to make chocolate chip cookies in general. You will find lots of helpful tips and tricks to make soft cookies and tasty cookies.

Decorating Cut Out Cookies For Kids

What kid doesn't love a decorated cookie? All kids, all ages love decorated cookies. These days you can go just about anywhere and find cookie cutters. Cookie cutters range in price and style from about 60 cents for a small aluminum cookie cutter to well over 5 dollars for a large copper cookie cutter. You can walk into your local grocery store and get several plastic, easy to handle, easy to use and clean, cookie cutters. Let's just start there. While you're there swing over to the section where the refrigerated cookie dough is kept. This is the easiest dough to use when decorating cut out cookies for kids. Add about 1/4 cup all purpose flour to the dough, roll it into a ball and chill if for about 1 hour. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough out onto a floured surface and use the cookie cutters to cut the cookies out. The cookies should be about 1/2 inch thick. Bake the cookies according to package directions and let them cool completely. Meanwhile here's a quick frosting that can be made and colored to decorate the cookies:

1 cup confectioner's sugar

\"Decorated Cookies\"

2 teaspoons milk

Decorating Cut Out Cookies For Kids

2 teaspoons corn syrup

(recipe can be doubled)

In a bowl, mix all 3 ingredients together thoroughly. It should be like the consistency of Elmer's glue. The frosting will be a little thick, in which case you can can add more milk and corn syrup each, 1 teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached. Divide the frosting into bowls and use food coloring to color. Pour the frosting into pastry bags or strong sandwich bags. Snip the tip of the bag with a pair of scissors to allow a little bit to come out. Now you are ready to start decorating cut out cookies for kids. The possibilities here are endless and the kids will love them. You can even add a little flavoring to the frosting. Try a teaspoon of almond or lemon extract before coloring the frosting. This is a frosting that dries with a nice shine. The thing to remember when you are decorating cut out cookies for kids is that this frosting should dry for about 8 hours, so it may be best to let them dry on a cooling rack overnight. The kids can eat the cookies before the frosting dries. It just gets a little messy, but that's all in the fun of making the cookies! Check kitchen and housewares stores for more of a diverse selections of cookie cutters. Of course there is always the internet. Now that you have mastered the art of decorating cookies for kids you can have cookies for all of the holidays. Just make sure to get the appropriate cookie cutters and there is no stopping you!

Decorating Cut Out Cookies For Kids

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Hand Decorated Cookies Supplies

Though you can certainly find cookies decorated for any occasion in any store or through a web site on the Internet, you can also work on hand decorated cookies on your own. This can be fun as you can make fun creations with each season or holiday and have a lot of fun doing it. All you have to do is to get the right supplies, learn how to use them, and then practice. It should not take you long to make some yummy and unique cookies for any occasion that pops up in your life. All supplies and even instructions can easily be found online.

One of the first things that you need for awesome hand decorated cookies is a great cookie recipe. Some like to use sugar cookies for this, though you can go with gingerbread in the winter months if you prefer. You can actually decorate any type of cook that you want, that is up to you. In order to make sure you have a great tasting as well as good looking cookie, find some great cookie recipes and cookbooks. You can buy the dough already made in the store, but cookies from scratch using a recipe always taste a bit better and give you a more satisfied feeling when you are done.

\"Decorated Cookies\"

Next, you need to have a way to apply the icing. You can certainly just use a small butter knife, but that is really only good to make simple hand decorated cookies. You do not get lines, definition, or even a smooth finish this way in most cases. Instead, you want to pick up a cake decorating set that includes icing bags and icing tips. You can learn to use these to make lines, stars, leaves, and just about anything else you can imagine. You can use butter cream icing for this and your cookies are going to be amazing once you get the hang of it.

Hand Decorated Cookies Supplies

You also want to think about getting some tools to work with fondant icing for some truly memorable cookie creations. This is an icing that can be rolled out and feels like modeling clay in your hands. It is big in cake design. You can use this with special tools to make realistic looking leaves and other decorations for your hand decorated cookies. There are all types of great tools that you can get to work with fondant, so see what you think is interesting and go to town with what you can design on your own, or what you learn from a decorating lesson or two.

Lastly, don't forget to find the best way to pass out or display your hand decorated cookies. You are not going to want to keep these to yourself. You can make them for school occasions, holidays, birthdays, or just because you feel like it. Find some great ways to transport your cookies, and great disposable boxes and other items that you can use when you want to give your cookies away for the holidays or as a gift to thank someone for helping you out. Cookies are almost always welcome, and as long as you got the right recipe, they will disappear in no time.

Hand Decorated Cookies Supplies

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Decorated Easter Cookies

For those of you looking forward to Easter time, the one thing that makes Easter incredibly special are decorated Easter cookies. Just like Christmas cookies have become a staple of Christmas time, so have Easter cookies become a part of Easter tradition. There are many great ways to adorn the Easter season and decorated Easter cookies are just one of them. Here are some tips on putting smiles on the faces of your children or friends this Easter season.

Decorated Easter Cookies Come in Many Shapes and Sizes

\"Decorated Cookies\"

Decorated Easter cookies can come in many shapes and sizes and if you can conceptualize it you can truly prepare it. For most people Easter is associated with bunnies, rabbits, chicks, lambs and Easter eggs. For the most part you can usually find most of these shapes and more in the form of cookie cutters.

Decorated Easter Cookies

Cookie cutters are usually easy to purchase at all discount shops, supermarkets, and craft shops. Or you can generally make them yourself- you just need some pliable metal and an idea. If you don't have a cookie cutter, no big deal. In fact a lot of people that are artistically gifted choose to cut their own shapes out of cookie dough by hand, without using any cookie cutter.

Decorated Easter Cookies Start Out with Delectable Cookie Dough

The most essential thing about the embellished Easter cookies that you create is that must taste just as great as they look. No one likes a nasty tasting cookie. For many chefs, a great cookie begins with delicious cookie dough. Yes, you can purchase the dough already pre-made and ready to cut, but for the purists out there, start with a family recipe that is either chocolate chip or of the sugar cookie variety.

Decorate Your Cookie Using the Tools of the Trade

It's easy to adorn your Easter cookies, just make sure you have all the accessories of the trade. They usually include, food coloring, colored icing, sprinkles, delicious candies such as licorice, M& M's, nuts, marshmallows, etc. Once you have gotten the cookie shape, let yourself or your kids use their creative magic to make cutely decorated Easter cookies. You can find food coloring and many cool decorating accessories at your local grocery store. You can even purchase pre-made Easter embellishments to add to your cookies, cakes or Easter eggs.

Presentation is Key

Once your newly designed Easter cookies are finished, make sure to show them off to the rest of the family and even give them away to your coworkers and friends. Savor the Easter spirit by showcasing your delicious and beautiful decorated Easter cookies.

One creative idea is to take some photographs of your adorned Easter cookies and include them in your annual Easter scrapbook, so you can always look back at the delicious and beautifully adorned Easter cookies that you have made.

You can also print the cookie recipe on an attractive recipe card and include a photo of your Easter cookies to give to family and friends. Most everyone appreciates handmade gifts, especially when it's a beloved family recipe.

If you are looking to magnify your gratification of Easter this year, take part in creating wonderfully decorated Easter cookies.

Decorated Easter Cookies

For Additional Awesome Easter Recipes visit http://www.kidapprovedmeals.com/article-easter-recipes.htm

Fun Jello Cookies

If you are looking for an easy dessert recipe, try some Jello cookies. They are quick to make. The cookies turn out light and fluffy, but have the fun colors from your selection of Jello. Make cherry and lime for red and green cookies for the holidays. Use orange, lemon, and lime for spring colors. You are limited only by your imagination and the choices of Jello on your store shelves.

These cookies are great favorites with the kids because of their fun colors. You can always brighten up the colors slightly with a drop or two of food coloring if you wish; the Jello makes a nice pastel color on its own. Make them when you want to cheer someone up; the colorful cookies will bring a smile to their face.

Cookies

This dough holds a shape pretty well. You can roll out the dough and cut the cookies out in shapes using cookie cutters. You can also press them flat with a glass or with a mold that has a pattern. You could also make a pattern on them like you would a peanut butter cookie and use a fork dipped in sugar to make criss cross marks. This recipe also works well in a cookie press. You can make all sorts of fun shapes with a cookie press. The Jello provides the color and a bit of flavor to the dough. You can even choose the colors of Jello to match a theme party if you want. Let your imagination run wild; make pink and blue for a baby shower or match colors with wedding colors for a bridal shower. Green would be perfect for St. Patrick's Day, of course, and orange would work well for Halloween.

Fun Jello Cookies

Some people like to sprinkle the freshly baked cookies with a little sugar; it sticks better when they are warm. Otherwise, you could sprinkle a little on before you bake them, but you need to watch so the sugar does not burn. You can also frost them when they are cool. Cream cheese frosting works well with most Jello cookies. Garnish with an appropriate fruit or put some colored sprinkles on top.

Recipe for Jello Cookies

Kids love these colorful cookies.

What You Need

• 4 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1-1/2 cups butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 3-ounce package of Jello, any flavor
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

How to Make It

Sift the flour and baking powder into a large mixing bowl. In another bowl, cream the butter, and then gradually add the sugar and Jello. Add the egg and vanilla; mix well. Gradually add the flour mixture, making sure it is well incorporated into the batter.

Chill the dough for at least an hour.

Fill a cookie press with the dough and press out cookies onto a baking sheet. Alternatively, you can roll the dough into balls and press them flat with the bottom of a glass.

Bake at 400 degrees F for 13 to 14 minutes.

Makes 60 cookies.

Fun Jello Cookies

Everyone loves jello. You can make salads, desserts and even a simple cheesecake recipe by using Jello in your recipes. They make quick and easy desserts that bring lots of color to the table. Make some for your family.

JelloRecipes.net - We Don't Make the Products We Just Make Great Desserts with Them!

Christmas Cookies Recipes - Soft Mincemeat Cookies

A deliciously comforting soft baked cookie.

1/4 cup butter; softened

Cookies

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

Christmas Cookies Recipes - Soft Mincemeat Cookies

2 eggs

3/4 cup mincemeat

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup walnuts, chopped, optional

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Prepare baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray.

In a bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar. Add in eggs and mincemeat; mix well.

In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt; add to the creamed mixture; mixing well. Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts.

Drop by tablespoonfuls 2-inches apart onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.

Makes 48 cookies.

=> Christmas Cookies Recipes: Orange Cookies

A fresh, citrus flavored cookie that will delight everyone.

1 cup shortening

1 1/2 cups sugar

1 cup buttermilk

3 eggs

2/3 cup orange juice

4 1/2 teaspoons grated orange peel

3 to 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

Cookie Icing

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a bowl, cream together shortening and sugar. Add in the buttermilk, eggs, orange juice and orange peel.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda and baking powder; gradually add to creamed mixture.

Drop by teaspoonfuls 2-inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool. Frost with Cookie Icing.

Cookie Icing

4 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar

1/4 teaspoon orange extract

1/3 to 1/2 cup orange juice

Directions

In a bowl, combine the confectioners' sugar, orange extract and enough orange juice to get to the desired consistency. Frost cooled cookies.

Makes 144 cookies.

=> Christmas Cookies Recipes: Mocha Fudge Cookies

A delicious cookie graced with coffee and cocoa flavors.

2 cups butter

4 cups semisweet chocolate chips, divided

3 cups sugar

1 cup baking cocoa

1 tablespoon instant coffee granules

3 cups packed brown sugar

8 eggs, beaten

3 tablespoons vanilla extract

8 cups all purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups walnuts, chopped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a Dutch oven over low heat, melt butter and and 2 cups of chocolate chips. Remove from heat; stirring until smooth.

In a bowl, combine the sugar, cocoa and coffee; add to butter mixture. Stir in the brown sugar. Stir in the eggs and vanilla.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt; gradually add to chocolate mixture. Stir in walnuts and remaining chocolate chips.

Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2-inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool.

Makes 222 cookies.

Christmas Cookies Recipes - Soft Mincemeat Cookies

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How To Make Painted Christmas Cookies

Who doesn't love the smell of fresh baked Christmas cookies? Part of the fun of Christmas for many folks is baking and decorating Christmas cookies. If you like to decorate sugar cookies during the holidays then you may enjoy letting your inner artist come out this year. How about trying your hand at painting your Christmas cookies this year? While at first glance they may seem difficult to accomplish, painting Christmas cookies is easy enough for children to help with.

Christmas cookie paint is actually a simple mix of egg yolk, water, and food coloring. After you've rolled out the dough and cut the shape you want, just paint on some playful designs, and bake your cookies as always. A couple of techniques can be used to place the designs on the dough. You can paint freehand or take a smaller cookie cutter and gently imprint or press the design to paint.

Cookies

Making the paint is easy. Use one egg yolk for every two colors you plan on using. Add ¼ teaspoon water, and beat with a fork until smooth. Divide the yolk mixture into two cups and stir enough food coloring in to make your desired shades. Keep in mind that the paint will dry out fast, so keep it covered when you're not using it. Stir in a little water to keep the paint a consistency that you can work with.

How To Make Painted Christmas Cookies

Easy Painted Christmas Cookies

1 cup butter, softened

1 cup sugar

2 eggs

¼ cup milk

2 tsp vanilla extract

4 cups flour

1 tsp baking powder

¾ tsp baking soda

Egg Yolk Paint

Cream butter at medium speed and gradually add sugar, beat until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each egg. Add milk and vanilla, and mix well. Combine flour, baking powder, and soda; add flour mixture to creamed mixture, stirring until blended. Your dough will be soft. Shape dough into 2 balls; wrap each in waxed paper or plastic wrap and chill for 4 hours. Work with half of dough at a time; store remainder in refrigerator. Roll dough to 1/8 inch thick on floured board or waxed paper; cut with 2 ½ to 3 inch cookie cutters and carefully transfer cut cookies to lightly greased cookie sheets. Paint various designs on cookies using a small art brush and our Egg Yolk Paint. Bake at 375F for 6-8 minutes; cook on wire rack. Makes about 5 dozen.

Easy Egg Yolk Paint

1 egg, beaten

¼ tsp water

Food coloring

Combine egg yolk and water; stir well. Divide mixture evenly into 2 cups; tint as you desire with food coloring. Keep your paint covered until ready to use. If paint thickens, add a few drops of water and stir well. Makes about 1 ½ tablespoons. Prepare this recipe for every 2 colors of paint you want to use.

Painting Christmas cookies is so much fun that you might decide to start a new family tradition. Create these pretty cookies to give away as special gifts or use as tree ornaments. This is a great holiday activity for older kids to make Christmas gifts for Mom and Dad too. If you decide to make painted Christmas cookies as ornaments, just cut a small hole in the top of the cookies before you bake them. Thread colorful cord or ribbon through the hole after the cookies have cooled. Have fun and use your imagination!

How To Make Painted Christmas Cookies

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Cookie Recipe - Old Fashioned Ice Box Cookies

My grandmother was known in our family for her delicious cookies. She lived two hours away from us, but when she would come to visit, she often brought these tasty ice box cookies. I think they were supposed to last for the whole week that she was there, but they barely made it through a couple of days. Of course, in the old days, they didn't have refrigerators. They had ice boxes, and that is how these cookies got their name.

Ingredients

\"Decorated Cookies\"

1 cup soft shortening

Cookie Recipe - Old Fashioned Ice Box Cookies

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups brown sugar

1 teaspoon soda

2 eggs

1 cup finely chopped nuts

3 1/2 cups flour

Instructions

Mix thoroughly the shortening, sugar, and eggs. Sift together the flour, salt, and soda. Blend in the nuts.

Now, on cutting board, or on a piece of wax paper, divide the cookie dough into two rolls. Wrap each roll in wax paper, making sure all of the dough is covered so none of it dries out. Chill these two rolls in the refrigerator overnight.

The next day, when you are ready to make the cookies, take them out and cut the rolls into 1/8 inch slices. Place about an inch or so apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. This recipe should yield about 12 dozen cookies.

You may want to choose a day when your children are home from school because of a snow day. Enjoy an afternoon in the kitchen together preparing and baking these cookies. Then curl up and watch a movie together or play a board game at the kitchen table while you are munching on them!

Cookie Recipe - Old Fashioned Ice Box Cookies

For ideas and tips on homemaking, cooking, crafts, family life, gardening, family history, and a touch of the past, visit http://www.oldfashionedhomemaking.com.

Pfeffernusse German Cookies Recipe

This is a traditional recipe for Pfeffernusse cookies which are often made in Germany during the Christmas holiday season. They are spicy, crisp, peppery cookies which are wonderful for dunking in milk or coffee. Their taste even improves with age when kept in a sealed air-tight container at room temperature. Baked cookies can also be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Ingredients:

Cookies

1/2 cup butter or margarine
3/4 cup dark molasses
1/4 cup honey
2 large eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 teaspoon ground white or black pepper
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground anise seeds
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar for dusting

Pfeffernusse German Cookies Recipe

Directions:

Grease cookie sheets and set aside.

Melt butter or margarine over medium-low heat in a saucepan. Stir in the molasses and honey and continue to heat and stir until mixture is creamy and well blended. Remove the saucepan from heat. Allow to cool to room temperature. Stir eggs into the cooled mixture.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, white sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, ginger, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, anise seeds and salt until well blended. Stir in the molasses mixture and mix well until thoroughly combined. Refrigerate dough for 1 to 2 hours.

Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Roll dough into small balls about 3/4 inch in diameter. Place dough balls 1 inch apart on prepared cookie sheets.

Bake in preheated oven 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Use a spatula to move cookies to a cooling rack.

Place powdered sugar in a plastic bag. Adding a small amount of cookies at a time, shake gently to coat completely with powdered sugar.

Recipe yields about 5 1/2 dozen cookies.

Pfeffernusse German Cookies Recipe

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Christmas Party Games - Plan a Merry Event!

Christmas - games, parties and fun! Who can resist the joys of the holiday season all the decorations, traditions, contagious cheer and endless parties! If the holiday spirit has swayed you into hosting a Christmas party you've come to the right place! With a little planning you can host a memorable Holiday soiree that will be remembered long into the new year!

It's Just Around the Corner - Plan Early!

\"Decorated Cookies\"

In case you haven't noticed (but we're sure you have), the month of December is crazy busy and gets crazier as Christmas comes near. Best advice on this topic is to PLAN EARLY! Planning in November will assure you have time to organize the party and still tackle your own Christmas "To-do" list. You'll also be able to get the invitations out before your guest Christmas calendars fill up.

Christmas Party Games - Plan a Merry Event!

Mind the Pocketbook - Set a Budget

The first, and most important, step is to set a budget! Determine how much you can comfortably spend. Setting a budget (and sticking to it) will not only keep some Christmas cash in your pocket but will also help guide your party planning decisions.

The Whole Crew and Aunt Sue Too - Make the Guest List

Be realistic about how many guest you can handle. Take into account the size of your place and the work involved in entertaining a group. Remember too that 'tis the season to be jolly and someone will likely bring an extra guest or two. Better to have a shorter list of closest friends and family unless you plan to have some hosting help and can afford to feed and entertain a larger crowd.

Any Day Now - Choose a Day and Time

'Tis the season for full social calendars so choose your date early and wisely. If possible, it's best to give guest at least three weeks notice. Saturday is usually the best day for most people to attend but Sunday can be good too. Remember to consider your schedule, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to prepare for the party and tend to your Christmas "To-do" list.

It's All about the Food - Plan the Menu

Your budget, guest list and party time will help guide this step. You can choose a potluck event a catered affair or anything in between. Perhaps a formal dinner and invite guest to bring their favorite dessert. The only rule on party food is the time of the party. If the hours of your party include the dinner hour you should serve heavier entree foods. Evening parties can serve lighter to heavy hors d'oeuvres and desserts. Don't forget the beverages! Alcoholic drinks are not mandatory so don't feel obligated to serve them. Perhaps wine options are a better fit for your affair. If you do offer alcoholic drinks be sure to have alternatives for those who don't drink and designated drivers. Keep the bar drinks simple to avoid the added work of playing bar-tender and the extra expense of stocking the bar. Should any of your guests have one-too-many be sure they do not drive home.

Get the Party Started - Plan the Fun

Above all else your Christmas party should be fun! Plan fun activities to get the party started and keep it going.

- Christmas party games. Games are a great way to get your guest talking and mingling.

- Trim the tree. Have all your tree decorations out and let your guest trim your tree.

- Christmas caroling. Take the party outside and sing carols for your neighbors.

- Decorate cookies. Prepare a table with cookie icings and sprinkles and let your guest decorate the cookies. They get to take their decorated cookies home.

- Exchange gifts. Either secret Santa or grab bag style. Be sure to include this on your invitations along with a spending limit.

Ya'll Come - Send the Invitations

Now that the party plans are in place, it's time to send out the invitations. Remember, three weeks notice (or more) is best so get those out ASAP!

It's the Thought that Counts - Party Favors

This is not always necessary but it is nice to give each guest some small token of thanks for their attendance. This can be as simple as a slice of cake to-go to a beautifully wrapped party favor gift. Again the watch cry is...budget!

Count Down - Final Steps

Shop for decor and party accessory items 2 weeks before. This will give you time to find any items that prove hard to locate. If you plan to order Christmas party games or other party supplies online, shop three to four weeks before the party.

Buy Food items and beverages the night before the party. Also, prepare any food that can be prepared ahead of time the night before. This will give you time to decorate, prepare food and get ready for your guest.

There you have it, plans for a event full of Christmas party games and merriment! Have fun and remember, no matter what the budget or theme your guest will appreciate the time spent sharing the season's joys with family and friends Above all else, keep it fun and you can't go wrong!

Christmas Party Games - Plan a Merry Event!

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Unusual Christmas Cookie Recipes - Poinsettia Cookies

These baked flower cookies are almost too pretty to eat.

1 cup butter, softened

Cookies

1 cup confectioners' sugar

Unusual Christmas Cookie Recipes - Poinsettia Cookies

1 egg

2 to 3 drops red food coloring

2 1/3 cups all purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup finely crushed red hot candies

Cookie Frosting

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Prepare baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and confectioners' sugar. Beat in the egg and food coloring.

In another bowl, combine the flour and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in the red hot candies.

Divide the dough in half; wrap each half in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough into a a 12x10-inch rectangle. With a sharp knife, cut the dough into 2-inch squares. Place 1-inch apart on prepared baking sheets.

Cut through the dough from the corner of each square to within 1/2-inch of the center. Fold the alternating points of the square to form a pinwheel (one corner folded in, the other left sticking out); pinch gently at the center to seal. Repeat with remaining dough.

Bake for 7 to 9 minutes or until set. Let cool.

Cookie Frosting

1 cup confectioners' sugar

4 teaspoons milk

Additional red hot candies

Directions

In a bowl, combine the confectioners' sugar and milk. Pipe 1/2 teaspoon of frosting into the center of each cookie; top with a red hot candy.

Makes 60 cookies.

=> Unusual Christmas Cookie Recipes: Mocha Cookie Pretzel Cookies

These cookies look like chocolate covered pretzels.

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup sugar

1 egg

2 squares unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups cake flour

Cookie Glaze

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Prepare baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray.

In a small bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Beat in the egg. Beat in the melted chocolate and vanilla.

In another bowl, combine the flour and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until the dough is easy to handle.

Divide the dough into four parts. Divide each portion into 12 pieces. Shape each piece into a 6-inch rope. Twist into a pretzel shape. Place 1-inch apart onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes or until set. Cool completely.

Cookie Glaze

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 teaspoon shortening

1 teaspoon light corn syrup

1 cup confectioners' sugar

3 to 5 tablespoons hot brewed coffee

2 squares white baking chocolate, chopped

Green colored sugar, optional

Directions

In the microwave, melt the semisweet chips, shortening and corn syrup; stir until smooth. Stir in the confectioners' sugar and enough coffee to achieve a glaze consistency. Dip cookies into the glaze; let excess drip off. Place on waxed paper and let set.

Melt the white chocolate, stir until smooth. Drizzle over cookies. Decorate with green sugar. Let stand until set.

Makes 48 cookies.

=> Unusual Christmas Cookie Recipes: Chocolate Filled Poppy Seed Cookies

A truly unique cookie featuring poppy seeds and a dollop of chocolate in the middle.

1 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup sugar

2 egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups all purpose flour

3 tablespoons poppy seeds

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a small bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Beat in the egg yolks and vanilla.

In another bowl, combine the flour, poppy seeds and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture.

Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Place 2-inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Using the end of a wooden spoon handle, make an indentation in the center of each.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Immediately make an indentation in the center again. Cool slightly and fill with melted chocolate.

Makes 78 cookies.

Unusual Christmas Cookie Recipes - Poinsettia Cookies

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