spiced apple cider + soft molasses cookies

Ten days left until Christmas, and there's still lots to be done. The kiddies and I decorated a gingerbread house yesterday. Boy will IRP be upset to come home and see the burglary that took place this morning. One gingerbread man was lost in the attack, and I must admit I was an accomplice after the fact. The poor thing had it's head bitten off, so eating the rest of him was all I could to end his suffering.

Today Rachael joins us from La Fuji Mama, and she brought soft molasses cookies for the virtual cookie jar. I want them…now. And look at how cute her little kitchen helper is too. I'm thrilled Rachael is today's co-host. We got to meet in person a few months ago at an event in NYC, and boy does she radiate warmth and love.

Get the recipe for Rachael's soft molasses cookies.

Want to see more pictures of Squirrel?

Now much as I love hot cocoa, these cookies call for a more delicate beverage, so I'm adding my star-anise spiced apple cider to the virtual cookie jar. Put up a batch in your slow cooker and you'll be all set for any holiday parties you have in the next week or two.

Get the recipe for my star anise spiced apple cider.

We're in the homestretch of the 12 Days of Sharing, so while you begin to kick into high gear and busily wrap all the gifts you've bought, please give the gift of a hot meal to one of the 17 million hungry children in this country and donate now. You might even win a brand new Cuisinart Stand Mixer or one of these other great prizes.