From My Kitchen to Yours

My mother, her sisters, and their mom were all very handy around the kitchen - but it's their combined skills with desserts that I remember most.

One of my aunts was well known around her farming community for the beautiful wedding cakes she created; my mom and her other sister each made delicious cookies, candy and cakes, all from scratch; and many of the recipes originated with their mother.

Visiting Nebraska as a child, I remember the wonderful aromas that routinely came out of my grandmother's kitchen.

Even now, so many years later, memories of Christmas past always conjure up the special homemade treats that appeared each year at our house.

The economy this year has many rediscovering the joys of creating wonderful edible gifts. Cookies, in particular, seem always to be welcome...and they're not difficult to make!

Maybe you're in the "baking spirit" and looking for some new recipes for delicious cookies. Following are two of our family's favorites.

Enjoy!

Molasses Cookies
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup shortening
2 eggs, beaten
½ cup molasses
1 teaspoon (stirred into molasses)
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon cloves, ground (or may substitute nutmeg)
¼ teaspoon salt

The molasses will make the dough dough sticky; chill it for one hour or until workable. Spoon into teaspoon-size drops. Dip the tops in granulated sugar. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 8-10 minutes (just until set - be careful not to overbake).

Oatmeal Cookies
1 cup shortening
1 cup granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
2 eggs
4 tablespoons milk
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking power
1 cup raisins
2 cups oatmeal

Mix in order given. Spoon into teaspoon-size drops. Bake in a 375 degree oven until slightly browned.

Wishing you and yours a blessed Christmas!