PEPPERMINT SHORTBREAD COOKIES

There is something about the holidays that brings out the best in people.  We’re happier, friendlier, and full of joy.  That’s why it’s the best time of the year.  The true spirit of the holiday season is all about giving though.  I used to stress about the gifts I gave at Christmas.  I mean, talk about pressure.  It’s the one time of year when many are expecting gifts and the thought of disappointing someone just doesn’t sit well with me.

As I grow older, and wiser, I’ve learned that giving to others is the best gift I can give myself.  Truly.  There is nothing that fills with me with thankfulness and joy more than the act of giving selflessly to another.  And the holidays are certainly the perfect time to do it.

The boys have been busy working on their Christmas Wish Lists and as much fun as it is to surprise them each year, our focus has always been on the act of giving. Teaching our boys to want to give to others is a top priority in our family. We participate in Operation Bear Hug, Operation Christmas Child, and various other charities to show them how good it feels to give.  And it does. There’s no denying the thrill in giving to someone you love or someone in need.

Ingredients

• 2½ cups all purpose flour
• ¾ cups sugar
• 1 cup butter, cubed (and cold)
• 1¼ cups Andes peppermint crunch chips (found in baking aisle or here)
• 1 tsp extract (vanilla, almond, or peppermint)
• red food coloring (optional)
• more sugar to coat cookies before baking if desired

Instructions

1. Combine flour and sugar in a large bowl.
2. Use a pastry blender to cut in butter. You want very fine crumbs.
3. Stir in extract, food coloring, and Andes peppermint crunch chips.
4. Use your hands to knead the dough until it comes together and forms a ball.
5. Shape dough into a log about two inches in a diameter and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for two hours.
6. Preheat oven to 325F.
7. ...............................

for full recipes please see : www.momontimeout.com

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