Why is it that coming up with new recipes is always easier when it's snowing? Maybe it's because you don't want to go out driving in the blustery, chilly storm or maybe because you just feel more like being at home when those arctic storms hit. There is nothing like puttering around the kitchen, armed only with a spatula and an idea. That's when good things start happening...

In my kitchen this winter, I've been lucky enough to ride the biggest inspirational wave I've ever seen. I've created more than a dozen new cookie recipes, borrow ideas liberlly from the Food Network (of which I'm a hopeless addict!), making frugal and quick twists using the same basic flavors they do. What has that resulted in? Funny you should wonder, here's the list of new cookie recipes to come out of my kitchen over the last month or two: (P. S. - want to see the recipe? just click on the link!)

Decadent Chocolate Snowballs

Cranberry Almond White Chocolate Cookies

Pumpkin Cookies

Cookies 'n' Creme Brownies

Vanilla Creme Brownies

White Mocha Sugar Cookies

Orange Rum Oatmeal Cookies


There are a few of my new favorites, though I've concocted many more. My New Year's Resolution, like last year, is to record a new recipe a day or add 365 recipes to my online cookbook by the end of the year. While I cut it a little too close for comfort in 2009 (finishing in a blaze of typing on New Year's Eve), I'm starting this year out stronger (and much sooner) than ever. New flavors, more quick and easy ideas, and budget-friendly tips are on their way! I'm rigorously combing through cookbooks, recipe cards, online recipes, and re-vamping old favorites with new flavors to bring the most flavor and fun to the table!

Tell me: what is your signature flavor? What taste, recipe, dish makes you feel at your best?

My baking tip of the week: when making brownies or bars, replace water called for in recipe with a liquid that has more flavor. Try liquid coffee creamers, juice, milk, etc. to booster flavor while using something you already have on hand!