Everyone is up earlier than any other day of the year to see what’s under the tree. Wrapping paper ripping, bows flying, boxes everywhere. And somewhere in there, folks get hungry. Just a nibble before the big celebration. Something special, but simple. There’s just too much going on to whip up a gourmet feast. And the cookies Santa left behind just won’t do. I’ve been … [Read more...] about Merry Morning Muffins with Eggnog Butter (Overnight Gingerbread and Cranberry Muffins)
Snacks And Starters
Sweet Tea Pecans
I don’t know that I have ever attended a holiday party where there wasn’t a pretty little bowl full of seasoned nuts. Sometimes a silver or cut crystal bowl, sometimes shaped like Santa or a Christmas tree, usually on the bar or an end table. And there are always people hovering around, picking up one or two nuts, but eyeing the bowl like they want to plunge their hand in and … [Read more...] about Sweet Tea Pecans
Homemade Fruitcake
I love fruit cake. I know, I know, I am in the minority. Fruit cake is one of the most maligned and made fun of foods out there. We’ve all heard the jokes about the one fruit cake that actually exists, but is re-gifted around the country year after year. I think the only thing some people like about the gift of fruit cake is the handy tin it comes in, great for storing … [Read more...] about Homemade Fruitcake
Sweet Potato Angel Biscuits
I do give thanks for biscuits. And I love a little biscuit bite in the Thanksgiving bread basket, particularly when they are made seasonal with the addition of sweet potato. These angel biscuits use yeast to get an extra rise, which is helpful when you add the dense potato purée. Make sure you potato is cooked through and soft to create the smoothest purée. I like these … [Read more...] about Sweet Potato Angel Biscuits
Baked Camembert with Pear, Cranberry and Walnut Relish
Baked brie with fruity toppings used to be all the rage, and the real height of sophisticated appetizers. But they seem to have fallen out of fashion a little. I rarely see them at parties or in cookbooks anymore. Perhaps the trend for simple artsy charcuterie trays have taken their place, or appetizers served on individual spoons. But just because a dish isn’t trendy … [Read more...] about Baked Camembert with Pear, Cranberry and Walnut Relish
