Home made Shortbreads and gift bag

It's hard to buy gifts for people that you don't see very often. Knowing their likes, dislikes etc. And just wanting to give them a token gift with good wishes of the season, without over doing it. Home made is always good in these instances I believe, and shortbreads are always a winner for Christmas gifts.

I also love to put lots of thought in to how I wrap my presents, so I made a cute little bag, complete with clear cello window so that the shortbreads could be seen. I finished it off with a border punch, ribbon and a little gift tag.

I used my thermomix to make the shortbread, it's very quick and easy. It's not as nice as a true shortbread I don't think, but everyone I have given these to seems to rave about how nice they are, and seems to really appreciate them. I put pistachios and cranberries through these as well for some festive flair.

I used this Christmas Shortbread recipe from the Thermomix forum.

Gingerbread House 2016

I was lucky enough to be purchased a cooking class as a gift, so decided I would use it on a Gingerbread House class. I had a great day baking, and I'm really happy with the result. Great to put in the centre of the table on Christmas Day! It even has windows, and has lights inside that can be turned on and off.