Cookies, cookies…

If you are looking for a cookie recipe that is sure to please, you are in the right place! No matter the season (or day) I make either treat, they never stick around for long.I’ll start with a family recipe from my grandmother, Shirley. She made these every Christmas and they are my dad’s favorite, hands down. As a result, I have received the torch and have committed to continue the tradition. I have no idea where she got the original recipe, so she gets the credit this time around. 

Vanilla Icebox Cookies
Serves: 4-5 dozen cookies1 1/2 c. butter, softened
3 c. brown sugar
3 eggs
1 c. chopped nuts (I prefer pecans, Shirls always used walnuts)
4 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
3/4 tsp. baking soda
3 tsp. vanilla

Mix thoroughly all ingredients, starting with the butter, sugar & eggs. Roll into 8-10 inch long, 2″ diameter logs after dough is chilled. Store logs in the fridge in wax paper, twisting the ends of the paper to seal. Refrigerate overnight before cutting in thin slices. Bake at 400º for 4-5 minutes, depending on how thick you cut the slices. I typically bake one log at a time, so the dough can last in my fridge for up to a week. After all, fresh out of the oven is always best for any cookie! 

Salted Caramel Cookies
Serves: about 3 dozen cookies Read More


What is your inspiration?

Yes, this is a new adventure for me and I am at the point where I am truly inspired. It’s a project that has been on my mind for months, letting any excuse repeatedly get in the way of moving forward. There’s risk when starting something new. There is a trade off toward the other ways I was spending my time, and there is always the unknown. After attending Rachel Hollis’ documentary last week, Made for More I simply decided…. NOW IS THE TIME to let my inspiration become a reality.

If you have read the About page,  you know fullsizeoutput_42efthat I recently hosted a housewarming party in our new house.  I LOVE to bake, so of course no party is complete without something sweet. The good news is my husband has a very gracious team of colleagues who are happy to enjoy any leftovers, regardless of the purpose or event.  My waistline appreciates their support!

This gorgeous sterling silver tray was my grandmother’s. When she moved into an assisted living cottage so my grandfather could receive memory care, I was blessed to receive several of her beautiful serving dishes. Thanks to The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond’s cookbook Year of Holidays, I found the perfect finale for the party! The Lemon Creme Pie, Cherry Cheesecake & Chocolate Caramel shooters were a hit and pretty darn easy to make.  Since I don’t have 50+ shot glasses in my china cabinet, I hit the digital waves to purchase some clear plastic mini dessert cups with demitasse spoons. This option made clean up easier too – what’s not to love about that?! Read More