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Monday, December 19, 2011

Tis the season with Sweet Treats

Around here holiday celebrating kicks in at the twelve days of Christmas countdown. That's when I listen to Christmas music nonstop (Michael Buble Christmas is my current fave), bake treats, and take part in holiday cheer.
My kids and I began by making hugs and kisses for Santa. Santa rarely gets to indulge because they devour these yummy little treats. Try them and you will see why as the combination of sweet and salty flavors are divine.
Santa Kisses: Mini pretzels, Hershey's Hugs (white and milk swirled kisses), & plain M&Ms.

Hugs: mini pretzels, Rolos, and cashews or plain M&Ms.

Place pretzels on a lined baking sheet. Top with unwrapped Hugs or Rolos. Bake at 350 for 5 minutes or until soft. Top with M&Ms or cashews. Place in fridge to cool. Enjoy and share!
I also hosted a tasty and festive lunch for my two girlfriends that ended up being quite "corny". I made the Pioneer Woman's Corn & Cheese Chowder and my friend Tammy brought the Barefoot Contessa's corn muffins. 
We enjoyed some sparkling pink Moscato and ended things with chocolate truffle brownies (Trader Joe's mix) topped with Haagen-Dazs vanilla bean ice cream. Decadent and fun is all I can say.
We had a wine themed gift exchange for $10 or under which was also festive. There are few things  more joyful than sharing soup, chocolate, laughter and wine with good friends. I encourage you to do this with yours and use these great recipes too.
Santa hugs and kisses,
kathy