The library staff had their cookie swap this week, which got me to thinking about Christmas cookies. Why are cookies associated with Christmas? I did a little research, as librarians are wont to do. Apparently Christmas cookies have been around since medieval times. The Germans are thought to have had the first cookies specifically made for Christmas, the lebkuchen or gingergread. They also made the first animal crackers. These, however, were used as edible ornaments on the Christmas tree. The Dutch brought the Christmas cookie to America in the early 1600's. And, as they say, the rest is history. For more recent history, the cookie exchange or swap, is first mentioned in publications in 1963.
Today, everyone has their favorite cookie recipe that must be made this time of year. I have three or four that my family anticipates. Often when participating in cookie swaps, I like to try new recipes. Of course, the place to look for those are in the December editions of magazines each year or the row of cookie cookbooks on the library shelves. Stop by and take a look.
Enjoy your baking and eating!
Saturday, December 15, 2007
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