Easy Hot Cocoa Mixes

Last year or perhaps early this year, I whipped together a basic cocoa mix for cold Chicago nights in. It was just something I could quickly add to some milk to make a warm, seasonal drink. And, frankly, it used up some of the random ingredients I had made or bought for household experiments. And it quickly made a batch for 2 – 4 folks, depending on how much cocoa you gave each person.

A frothy mug of hot cocoa.

Hot Cocoa Version I

6 tbsp vanilla sugar1
4 tbsp cocoa powder

3 c milk

Heat milk to a near boil on the stove, then whisk in the cocoa and vanilla sugar. Once thoroughly combined, serve.

It was very simple, but quite good. And it made Nicky happy when they visited, which is also great.… Continue reading →

Cookie Exchange – Meatball Cookies

I have never been to a cookie exchange/swap, so when Jen suggested I write up something for Getting Ready to Go on preparing to go to one, I was at a bit of a loss. I wasn’t even sure of the concept, honestly. But some searches online helped me sort it out. And I may even host one, last minute, exactly the way everything says you shouldn’t, and if I do, I’ll write it up for GRTG.

Cocoa, sugar in a pie plate, two large tupperwares bins. Baking supplies strewn about.

But what it did do is prompt me to consider what cookies I’d take to the exchange. And while I’m very proud of The Groom’s Cookie and I love the fall flavors of the maple cookie and I simply adore cookie cutters, one cookie immediately sprang to mind.… Continue reading →