Christmas cookies

Sue Grafton's L novel was annoying. So much so, that I didn't finish reading it but jumped to the last chapter after reading it over half way. Aside from Kinsey, the characters were totally unlikeable. I'd rather not read about characters I don't like. I haven't started a new mystery yet but have been reading the latest Valdemar anthology. Perhaps I will devote a different blog to it. It has been a satisfying read.

No, my obsession du jour is Christmas cookies. First I tried twiddling with the toll house cookie recipe a la Alton Brown but was dissatisfied with the results. When not stored in an airtight container the cookies became rock hard. Not Good Eats. But AB is not necessarily to blame since I didn't follow his recipe exactly. Next, I made them the way I usually do according to the recipe on the package substituting 1 cup sugar and 1/2 cup brown sugar for the 3/4 cup each in the recipe. I used Brooke's scoops to portion the dough and was pleased with the results. I like using the scoops--they made for more uniform cookies that were well shaped. I am not compelled to eat them one after another. What's up with that?

The next experiments where shape cookies. I used AB recipe for sugar cookies but wasn't thrilled with the taste. I used Joy of Cooking's Gingerbread people recipe. I haven't tasted it yet. Brooke had a little cookie cutting and decorating party at her house for which I supplied the dough and cutters and she supplied supper, icing and guests. It was an enjoyable time but I pooped out before everything was finished and came home. I need to pick up my portion of the results later. I discovered that, like painting pottery, decorating cookies is not my forte. Brooke, Virginia and Nadia, however were pros.

Next on my list will be Mexican Wedding Cakes (Joy of Cooking) and Date Nut Balls. If either of those fail to please me, I'll know something is wrong; they are two of my favorites.

I still need to get a gift for Ali (I know what I'm getting him) and something for the other relatives (I have no clue) but I will wait until I feel better--maybe Thursday.