Christmas Sandwich Creme Cookies

These cookies are wonderful, and not just perfect for Christmas, but any time of the year. Just change the color of the food coloring in the filling and they are ready for any occasion. I have also been known to put ice cream between the sandwich cookies in lieu of the filling in the summer months. I then wrap them in plastic wrap or waxed paper, place in a freezer bag, and have a great treat any time we fancy one.

Ingredients:
1 cup butter (no substitutes) softened
1/3 cup whipping cream
2 cups all purpose flour
sugar

Filling:
1/2 cup butter (no substitutes) softened
1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons real vanilla
food coloring

In a mixing bowl, combine butter, cream and flour; mix well.
Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or until dough is easy to handle. Divide into thirds; let one portion stand at room temperature for 15 minutes (keep remaining dough refrigerated until ready to roll out). On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8" thickness. Cut with 1-1/2" round cookie cutter. Place cut outs in a shallow dish filled with sugar; turn to coat. Place on ungreased cookie sheet. Prick with a fork several times. Bake at 375 for 7-9 minutes or until set. Cool on wire racks.

For filling:
In a mixing bowl cream the butter, powdered sugar and vanilla. Tint with food coloring of your choice. Spread about 1 teaspoon filling on half of a cookie, top with remaining cookie.

Makes about 36-40 cookies.

Here's To Healthy Snacking

Lately, there has been a lot in the news concerning obesity in America. And not just in adults--our children are over-weight, also.

It's not surprising, considering the advertising dollars that are spent each year aimed at persuading children that potato chips, candy bars and other "junk food" are good for them.

While we may not be able to change the world, we can change what is available to our children in our own homes.

Here are a few healthy alternatives to those fat and sugar laden "store-bought" snacks.

Peanut Butter Balls
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup honey
1 cup toasted wheat germ
1 tablespoons powdered milk

Mix ingredients well, shape into balls. Roll in coconut if desired. Store in refrigerator.

Popcorn
Popcorn is a great snack food. It is a good source of fiber and low in calories--until you add toppings. Don't add salt, but try sprinkling grated Parmesan or American cheese on top.

Zipper top bags of popcorn are handy for taking along on picnics and other outings.

Honey "Cracker Jacks"
6 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup butter or margarine
6 cups popped popcorn
1 cup peanuts

Melt honey and butter in microwave until melted and blended. Let cool. Mix peanuts and popcorn; pour honey mixture over and stir till coated. Spread in single layer in shallow baking pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 5-10 minutes. Stir several times during baking. Watch closely so it doesn't burn.

Store in airtight container.