sweet treats Archives

Celebrating National Cookie Exchange Day: Sweet Treats & Sweeter Traditions

There’s something extra special about December 22nd—National Cookie Exchange Day. It’s the unofficial kickoff to that delightful moment when kitchens everywhere turn into flour‑dusted wonderlands, ovens hum like old friends, and neighbors appear at your door with tins full of sugary surprises. Around Dusty Roads, we’re all about celebrating the small joys that make a season feel special, and a cookie exchange is one of those traditions that warms the heart as much as the home.

Why Cookie Exchanges Are Pure Holiday Joy

Cookie exchanges aren’t just about the treats—though let’s be honest, that’s a pretty big perk. They’re about community, creativity, and the simple pleasure of sharing something homemade. Whether you’re a seasoned baker with a signature cookie or someone who relies on the “add water and stir” method (no judgment here), there’s room for everyone at the cookie table.

Plus, you walk away with a variety of cookies without having to bake a dozen different recipes. Efficiency and sugar? A winning combination.

Mom’s Recipe Corner: A Cookie Worth Exchanging

Of course, no cookie exchange is complete without a recipe that earns a few “Who made these?” whispers. So we’re dipping into Mom’s Recipe Corner for a tried‑and‑true classic: Chocolate Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies—a soft, spiced, crowd‑pleasing cookie that looks festive without requiring a culinary degree.

This cookie is a version of the classic Chocolate and Vanilla Icebox cookie. It was a staple of my youth. I admit it took more than a few tries to get the peppermint right. If the candy isn’t crushed enough your cookies are going to spread in the oven. But they still will taste good.

I found this recipe fun to play with. Sometimes I’d use white chocolate and 3 layers of dough so you got more swirls.

Let your imagination rule the day! Then , of course, share the bounty.

Share the Sweetness

Whether you’re hosting a cookie exchange, joining one, or simply gifting a plate to a neighbor, today is all about spreading joy one bite at a time. So preheat that oven, put on your coziest playlist, and let the holiday spirit rise—just like your cookies.

If you want more recipes for your exchange, Mom’s Recipe Corner is always cooking up something delicious.

Cranberry Apple Season: A Holiday Feast

The holiday season is filled with more than twinkling lights and wrapped gifts—it’s filled with food! Oh yes, this time of year is a minefield for anyone watching their waistline or blood sugar. Turkey itself isn’t the culprit—it’s pure protein. Keep the gravy light, go easy on the mashed potatoes, and you’ll be fine. But beware: the snacks and sweets are lurking, ready to ambush you.

🍎 Apple season is in full swing.

At the grocery store, totes of apples are priced far lower than buying just a few loose ones. Of course, that means I walk out with three times more apples than I need. And what happens next? Baking. Pies, muffins, pancakes… all those sugar, fat, and carb-laden delights that taste so good but spell trouble for the waistline.

🥧 Apple pies—whether plain or the ooey-gooey skillet version—are irresistible.

Skillet Apple Pie – Fresh out of the oven

Mornings often begin with a Big Apple Pancake. Yum!

🍒 And then come the cranberries. If only I could resist! But fresh cranberries are only here for a few short weeks, and Massachusetts is the heart of cranberry country. So yes, I grab a bag… or two… or three. Get ready to boogie in the bog!

How do I love thee, fresh cranberries? Let me count the ways…

And the list goes on. Honestly, I’m gaining pounds just writing this!

So let’s wrap it up before I raid the kitchen again. Keep an eye on Mom’s Recipe Corner at Welcoming Haven—I’ll be sharing these cranberry and apple creations as the season unfolds. And come January, you can join me at Weight Watchers to undo the damage. After all, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner… and I’ve got a fudge recipe waiting for you.