It is hard to believe it's that time of year again! This past year has flown by. The holiday season seems to come faster and faster, every year. We all seem to get even busier that we could have ever thought possible. With this time of the year, it seems to get even worse. Instead of enjoying quality time with our families' we are off scurrying to find the latest gadget, that will make the "perfect gift". Working in retail, I definitely have plenty of stories about holiday gimmicks. Time is said to be one of the most valuable commodities. It is clear, in this day and age, just how very true that statement is. I know that I have no room to talk, with my crazy work schedule and college finals. We all have little things that preoccupy us, from what is really important.
This life is short, and we are all so blessed to have such amazing people in our lives. We must not lose sight of that, through all of our busyness, and hectic schedules. It is important, especially this time of the year, to take time out and cherish everything and everyone we have. We never know how long we have until it is too late. Do not let the little moments slip away.
Here is a recipe that help you take some time out, to just relax and enjoy.
Peppermint Patties:
I love making homemade candies. They are surprisingly very easy to make. I thought it would be festive to make some peppermint patties. They make great gifts, and have an instant wow factor!
You will need:
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar (divided)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1 1/2 tablespoons water
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
- pinch of salt
- 7-10 ounces bittersweet chocolate (you can mix in a little milk chocolate to cut some of the bitterness.)
- Optional: Mini candy canes for garnish
Adapted from: Gourmet Magazine: Epicurious Recipe
Beat together: powdered sugar, water, corn syrup, and shortening until combined. |
Add peppermint extract, and a small pinch of salt. |
Lightly knead it (on a work surface) using the remaining 1/4 cups of powdered sugar. Continue until smooth. |
Roll into a cylinder shape, and cut in half. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for 15 minutes, or until firm. |
Slice into circles and place on cookie sheet. You can coat the circles with powdered sugar. I did not, because I live in such a dry climate. |
Freeze for several hours or overnight. (This important! Otherwise you will have the filling melt through the chocolate when you enrobe the candy) |
Optional: Lightly chop candy canes (preferably the mini kind), for an added crunch. |
Happy Holidays! |
3 comments:
Your post is so fitting, especially after last week's tragic events. You never know when you might lose someone you love. Thank you for your wonderful insight.
I love peppermint, and these look great. I am not very good at candy-making, but I may have to give these a try.
Just wanted to tell you, I made these the other day and they were divine!! I had to make another batch, because my whole family scarfed them down, before I could even try one! Thank you for sharing this recipe. They were a hit!
I love peppermint patties. Will definitely have to make these!
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