Measure, Mix and Meltaway

I was invited for a bake exchange.  It's my very first bake exchange and I am excited...and intimidated.

 

I have never baked a cookie before from scratch.  (Well, maybe I did once but it was a failure!)

Sure, I can make cakes (but still from a box) but the thought of having to share it with friends seems uneasy for a perfectionist (?) like me.

After the invite, I did my research right away and searched for an easy, no-fail, crowd-pleasing holiday cookie over the internet.  And there's lots out there.  In fact, too many that I can't decide. 

I chose two recipes (so I'll have one back-up in case the other fails).

But one problem, I became so sick the start of the bake exchange week that I was not able to bake them ahead of time.  Hubby ordered that I sleep and rest so I can feel better sooner.  I was planning to bake the goodies the night before but the commander said no!

Friday morning came.  Hubby stayed home and took care of the kids while I slave away in the kitchen making these treats.

First, Kris Kringle cookies.

It was actually good. 

Just the right amount of sweetness, and the cranberries are awesome!

Except I think I left it in the oven too long, I ended up with crunchy, burnt Kris Kringle cookies.

But some people like burnt cookies...I think?!

Next, Chocolate Crinkles.

These are delish! 

Just ask my Jakob and my sister.  The leftovers did not last a day in our house.

I had fun making these cookies.  It was a great experience, and it gave me enough courage to try and bake cookies more.  Though I would like to perfect the Kris Kringle cookies first before I entertain other recipes.

Cleaning up the mess...well, that's another story.