Holiday Cookie Traditions
Happy Holidays!
2020’s cookie selection is a combination of our traditional specialities, a few new treats (both gluten free), and the gluten-free-ization of three of our old favorites. I packaged these up for friends and family and dropped them on doorsteps for a fun holiday surprise. I followed it up with the cheat-sheet below so all would know what was included in the cookie tin.
The top row, from left to right, showcases our traditional Pizzelle (a tradition from my grandmother’s Abruzzi region of Italy). This year we tried a chocolate almond variety in addition to the traditional anise flavor. Our Spritz Christmas trees (recipe from the booklet included with my mother’s cookie press) are loaded with almond flavor, and a simple double chocolate chip cookie.
In the center there are two types of Gingerbread cookies. While we always make Gingerbread cookies, this year we also added a gluten free variety subbing out Cup 4 Cup flour for all purpose flour. I used two different types of Molasses, which resulted in the different coloring of the cookies.
Amaretti cookies
New this year are the Dark Chocolate dipped Amaretti cookies, modified from a recipe I found in the Washington Post. These are sure to become an annual favorite. They are made with almond flour, almond flavoring, and Amaretto. The original recipe called for Rose chocolate, but we chose to dip them in dark chocolate instead. Click here for my version.
Another new addition, from last year’s Washington Post, are the Pecan Praline bars we made with both regular and Cup 4 Cup gluten free flour. These are sweet and delicious, and we cut them into bite size pieces to encourage quick nibbles.
We couldn’t go a year without our traditional strawberry thumbprints, filled with buttery goodness. These cookies were a tradition in my household growing up, and I am thrilled my family loves them just as much as I do.
Last but not least we made a family favorite, Peanut Blossoms. The recipe I made for many years calls for all purpose flour. A few years ago I found a recipe with no flour that is both simple and delicious. Everyone loves this GF version, so we don’t even bother with the original.
I’ll be sure to link up and post the rest of these holiday cookie recipes in time for the 2021 Holiday baking season. Stay tuned!