In my house, holiday baking has become quite the production. It requires a huge amount of time, energy, and organization. I tend to make about five different treats to include in the bags for the sake of variety. Then there is always the matter of making enough batches of each item so that every goody bag gets a decent amount. I end up doing a lot of math – not my favorite. I’m actually thinking of changing my game plan for next year, and spreading it out over the course of a week, working on one item each day.
Biscotti are one treat that I include in the bags every year. Though the flavor varies, I think it’s ideal for several reasons. First, they are easy to make. When you make this many gift bags, the treats need to be on the easier side to keep it manageable. Second, the biscotti keep very well, making them greatl for giving away and shipping when necessary. Finally, they are a lovely compliment to the bags of hot cocoa mix included in each bag. I considered a multitude of flavors of biscotti, and when I consulted Ben, the choice was made instantly – peanut butter chocolate biscotti. This classic flavor pair is irresistible to a lot of people, and there was nothing else peanut buttery in the bags. Thank goodness for the corner pieces of biscotti. We were very happy to get to sample a few of these ourselves.
For those readers who have been asking, the final breakdown of my holiday baking went like this:
Vanilla Bean Caramels – 2 batches
Peppermint Brownies – 4 large pans
Hot Chocolate Mix – 2 batches
French Butter Cookies – 5-6 batches
Peanut Butter Chocolate Biscotti – 3 batches
I hope everyone is having as much fun in their kitchens as I am this month. It’s tiring, but so fun and so worth it!
Side note – Today is the last holiday giveaway – a super cute apron from Anthropologie! See the Facebook page to enter – details will be posted before 8 am.
