Saturday, December 20, 2008

Busy In The Kitchen

Over the past couple of days I have been busy trying to get caught up on my baking and getting the last of my gifts ready.



One evening early in the week, I got to work making Butter Tarts. I usually buy my tart shells as my pie crust leaves a great deal to be desired. I made 5 dozen and plan on giving a few to my neighbours as a little Christmas gift. I found out that Butter Tarts are a Canadian invention. There are different schools of thought on how to make them. I like mine a bit runny, but some people like them a bit more solid.






I next made some Chocolate Covered Peppermint Patties. I got to use up the leftover mashed potatoes in my fridge. This gives them a bit of a moister inside even after drying overnight.






I next made some Peanut Butter Cups. My boys just love these. I bought a large envelope of small paper cups a few years back and this makes it so very easy. The only problem is that I have enough paper cups to last for years. At least I won't have to worry about an increase in price.



I also made Chocolate Snowballs that same evening. All I need to do is roll them in icing sugar when I am ready to serve them.


Today I made Almond Bark and Peanut Brittle. I remembered to take a picture of the the Almond Bark but not the Peanut Brittle. So my candy making will end with making Chocolates tomorrow and I will be moving on to Cookie making.

Our oldest son made it home today and we expect the youngest to arrive in the middle of the week. I am hoping to have lots of baking to send home with the two of them.

Well off to visit all of you.

Have a wonderful evening. God bless.

13 comments:

  1. OMgooodness Jackie~ You are the one who is truly inspiration---look at all that baking!!!!

    Believe it or not- my kids don't love cookies, cakes, etc... so I don't make them-

    My granddaughters have made Christmas dog bones and gave them to neighbors...it was soooo much fun!!!!

    You have made me very hungry! I love love sweets...

    Hugs- Happy Holidays!

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  2. Looking at all your lovely baking is making me hungry. I need to go get me some breakfast.

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  3. I can close my eyes and just imagine the scents coming from your kitchen! Everything looks incredible!

    I'll begin my baking today.

    Enjoy the season!

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  4. Wow! You have a veritable factory going on there! Everything looks beautiful.

    I'm not great on pie crust, either, but I've never seen small tartlet crusts/tins for sale. Do you buy them in a regular store or a professional outlet?

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  5. Meredith, I buy them at a bulk food store here in the city. I have seen them in my grocery store as well, but they are a bit more expensive.

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  6. Jackie, your baking looks amazing - and delicious! :-)
    Wishing you a Blessed and Very Merry Christmas.
    Deb

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  7. Wow! I wish I could stop by for a sample of each one. :0) Merry Christmas to you and your family!
    ~Kelli

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  8. Jackie, you *have* been a busy little bee! They all look delicious - particularly the almond bark and peanut butter cups since they're my faves.

    Merry Christmas! I hope you enjoy the time with your husband and sons.

    Randa

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  9. I found this blog searching "making chocolates" online. I think you and your readers may be interested in a how to DVD to make gourmet chocolate candies. Check out www.making-chocolates.com

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  10. Jackie, everything looks wonderful! You're making me hungry!

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  11. Oh yummmmmm, it all looks sooo good! Butter Tarts sure are of Canadian descent:-) I make mine with maple syrup that my youngest brother makes from his own Maple trees.

    May Peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through! Merry Christmas to you and yours, dear Jackie. xoxo

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  12. Jackie, everthing looks so good. The little tarts sounds delish and peanut butter cups are a favorite of mine. I been baking and making candies for the past two days too.
    I'm glad your carpet is in and it sure is nice looking...your new room is going to be so enjoyed.
    Like your goodies...I missed the book swap, both your books look good. I hope there is another one next year...I love to read. Merry Christmas to you and yours Jackie...warm hugs, Linda

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  13. Hi jackie.... Your baking surely was a huge accomplishment... Oh my.... Makes me hungry.... was wishing you would share these recipes?!?!?!
    How do you get runny butter tarts??.... I have been trying for years but no luck!
    Enjoyed the cat story! LOL
    Hope you have a very Happy holiday what is left and all the best in 2009..
    Always makes me happy when you visit me....Thanks so much and God Bless...
    xoxoxoxo
    ((((hugs))))
    Maggie

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