Be Healthy, Be Fit!

Most of us are afraid to admit our continued craving for sweet treats this holiday, since we've probably already overindulged. But here is a healthy cookie recipe you can not only eat with a clear conscience, but can even share unashamedly with others!

Brenda is a dear friend of mine from Outlook magazine. I can't believe she was brave enough to do this video! Maybe because "the buck stops here" came into play...she's the editor of the magazine. *wink* *smile* But she does a terrific job!

Click on this link to see how to make the cookies...
http://outlookmag.org/christmas-jar-cookies/

Almond Joy Cookies and Cracker Candy

I got a couple of new recipes from my sister down in Florida. She's tried both of these and says they are good. Plus she knows I like to keep it simple, so one has 4 ingredients and the other just 5. If you're in the mood for something different, and not too stocked up on holiday treats yet, then you might want to try these.

If you've come across more simple sweet treats, especially healthier versions, please share with me and I'll post!


First, here's Almond Joy Cookies (I got this one from www.sixsistersstuff.com/recipe)

1/2 c. butter (softened)
3/4 c. sugar
3/4 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 (11.5 oz.) bag milk chocolate chips
1 c. flaked coconut
3/4 c. chopped almonds

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Cover cookie sheets with parchment paper, or lightly grease them.
Cream together butter, sugar, and brown sugar.
Beat in eggs and vanilla.
Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt and mix until well blended.
Then fold in chocolate chips, coconut, and chopped almonds.
Drop by rounded Tablespoons (1 1/2 in. balls) onto prepared cookie sheets (they will spread). Bake 8-10 min. Cool in pan 5 min. before removing.

(makes about 3 dozen)

Then she told me about Cracker Candy. Who would guess regular saltine crackers could taste so good?! But she says it is delicious.

1. Cover cookie sheet with foil...then spray with PAM.
2. Cover with saltine crackers (left in squares).
3. Melt in pan 1 cup of butter (2 sticks).
4. Add 1 cup and 2 Tbl. brown sugar to pan...boil 3 minutes.
5. Pour over crackers.
6. Bake 5 min. at 350 degrees.
7. Pour 1 bag chocolate chips over it and cover with aluminum foil for 3 min.
8. Spread melted chocolate and sprinkle on pecans.
9. Freeze for 20 min.
10. Break up into pieces...Enjoy.