By Leslie
One of my friends recently brought up the idea of hosting a little cookie exchange. I've never been to one (have you?) but I'm excited by the idea of sharing cookies and searching around for some new ideas. We have a few secret family recipes (my grandmother's chocolate chip cookies) but I'm considering trying my hand at something different. In light of this, I've rounded up a few exciting holiday-inspired cookie recipes. (And here's a few more, from Jennie's holiday cookie round-up.)
Choclate Orange Cookie Stacks from Epicurious. Described as "pastry-shop look but require astoundingly little effort." Yes, please.
Nutella Peanut Butter Cookies from Sugar Plum Blog. You had me at Nutella. And peanut butter. Also, read this blog! Or just look at the very pretty food pictures.
Ghirardelli Chocolate Peppermint Bark Sandwich Cookies from Ghirardelli. Wowsa. Can you even imagine?
Mama Pea's Cookie Dough Balls. I made these last year, popped a few in cellophane bags, and tied them up with string. They are incredible and I'm giving them as gifts again this year. (Bonus -- Mama Pea's recipes are vegan.)
Of course, there's always my old standby -- the Magic Cookie Bar. Easy, delicious, makes a ton, freezes well.
What are your favorite holiday cookie exchange recipes?
Ok, commenting on my stupid phone, but I can't recommend Smitten Kitchen's Buckeye recipe enough. Yes, it's technically candy, but I brought a double batch to a cookie exchange last year and those bad boys flew off the plate! Who in their right mind can resist truffles that taste exactly like Reese's Peanutbutter Cups?
Posted by: ellbee | November 29, 2011 at 12:02 PM
I meant to say using my stupid phone, so no links, FWIW.
Posted by: ellbee | November 29, 2011 at 12:05 PM
Ellbee - Let me just start by saying THANK YOU! I have read about those before, but never made them and it's nice to hear from someone who has. Smitten Kitchen is just the best. Here's the link in case anyone is interested.
http://smittenkitchen.com/2010/10/buckeyes/
Posted by: Leslie | November 29, 2011 at 12:11 PM
I went to a cookie bake one time, which is the same idea as an exchange except you get together with your girlfriends and spend the day baking the cookies together. It's chaotic but it was so much fun! We made so many cookies! I made peanut blossoms (you know, the peanut butter ones with chocolate kisses?) and monster cookies (the ones with m&ms and oatmeal).
Posted by: Kay | November 29, 2011 at 01:50 PM
Kay - That sounds like fun too! I love cooking with a big group.
Posted by: Leslie | November 29, 2011 at 03:26 PM