Bet you couldn’t eat just one!

For a number of years now I have gifted my friends, neighbors, and co-workers with these divine cheddar-pecan-cranberry cookies for the Christmas season.  It is a Southern Living  recipe that has become part of my repertoire and even if I wanted to make something different, I would fear the repercussions.

It starts after thanksgiving with comments like, “You are going to make those cheddar things this year.” Then when I present them, faces light up and grown-ups squeal in delight. The reactions make me feel a bit like a dealer, I know my recipients are hooked.

It is a magical combination of cheddar, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, butter, flour, salt and cayenne pepper, but I think the secret ingredient is love. I know I get as much pleasure baking them to give, as the folks who love eating them.

The baking and giving of these cookies has become a tradition, like many Southern Living recipes I make for various occasions throughout the year. I love how cozy the house is, all decorated for Christmas, while I bake. I love the aroma of the toasted pecans that lingers for several days. I don’t think it would feel like the holidays without preparing this recipe.

So I can reassure all those who have become addicted to my cookies, I will gladly be your dealer for years to come.