Shortbread is one of those timeless treats: rich, buttery, and irresistibly simple. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful homemade gift or a dessert that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea, this recipe is a family favorite!

You’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

To make:

• Heat your oven to 325°F
• In a large bowl, cream the softened butter.
• Add the salt and mix until fully incorporated.
• Stir in the sugar and vanilla (if using) gradually until everything is well combined.
• Add the flour and mix just until it is absorbed. The dough will look a bit lumpy.
• Press the dough into an ungreased 8-inch square baking pan, ensuring it’s even. Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Using a butterknife, outline your 2-inch x 1-inch fingers.
• Use a fork to poke holes in the dough to prevent it from puffing up.
• Bake for 45 to 50 minutes.
• The shortbread is ready when it turns a lovely golden brown.
• Transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool slightly. While the shortbread is still warm, cut it into fingers.
• If desired, sprinkle a tablespoon of sparkling, superfine, or granulated sugar over the top for an added touch of sweetness.

You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!

Add a touch of rustic charm to your holiday decor with a simple and fun-to-make Christmas rag banner! This scrappy garland is perfect for draping across your mantel, windows, or tree.

You’ll Need:

• Yarn or string
• Tape measure
• Fabric scissors
• A heavy object (like a thick book)
• Fabric strips
• Wooden beads

To make:

1. Gather Fabric Strips: Cut fabric strips about 16 inches long and 1 inch wide. A little variety in width (from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches) can add texture and character to the banner.
2. Layout Your Colors and Textures: Start laying them out as you gather or cut your fabric strips. Mix and match colors, patterns, and textures to get a feel for the final look.
3. Measure and Cut Strips: For a garland that spans 6 feet, you’ll need approximately 240 strips of fabric. You can add more or less depending on how long you want your banner to be.

Assembling the Banner:

1. Prepare the String: Reel a long lead of yarn or string and place it on a flat surface. Secure one end with a heavy object, like a thick book, to keep it taut and in place.
2. Tie the Strips: Fold each fabric strip in half. Hold the string taut with your left hand. With your right hand, position the folded strip across the string, with the fold facing to the right. Create a “birdie beak” with your right hand and poke through the loop under the string. Grab the two tails of the fabric strip and pull them through the loop, securing the fabric to the string. Continue until your garland is full.
3. Finishing Touches: Make a loop at each end of the garland for easy hanging. Cover the knots with wooden beads or festive accents for added charm if desired.

Display and Enjoy!

Hang your rag banner across your fireplace, stair railings, or over doorways to add cozy, handmade flair to your holiday setup. This project is simple, customizable, and a great way to use up fabric scraps while creating beautiful, personalized decor. Happy crafting!

You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!

Are you looking for a creative and festive way to add a touch of handmade charm to your Christmas tree this year? These DIY snowman ornaments are the perfect solution! Made with just a few simple materials, they’re a delightful addition to your holiday décor and a fun project for kids and adults alike. Follow the steps below to create your very own snowman ornaments!

You’ll need:

• 3 large white beads
• Paint pens (black, orange, and optional colors for decoration)
• 12 inches of twine

To make:

• Gather three large white beads. These will form the snowman’s body and head.
• Using a black paint pen, draw two small dots for the eyes and a series of dots for the mouth.
• Create a small carrot-shaped nose in the center of the bead with an orange paint pen. Let the paint dry before handling.
• Take another bead and use the black paint pen to draw a vertical row of buttons. This bead will be the snowman’s torso.
• To assemble your snowman, fold your 12-inch piece of twine in half. Thread the beads onto the twine in this order: First, a plain white bead (the snowman’s base). Second, the bead with the buttons. Finally, the decorated snowman head.
• To secure the beads, tie a knot below the bottom bead to keep the beads in place. Tie another knot above the snowman’s head to create a loop for hanging.
• If you’d like, use paint pens to add extra details, such as rosy cheeks, a scarf, or even a little hat!

Your snowman ornament is now ready to grace your Christmas tree. Hang it on a branch and enjoy the festive cheer it brings. These adorable ornaments also make great gifts or gift toppers for friends and family.

You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!

Orange pomanders are a timeless tradition that combines natural beauty with a warm, festive scent. These decorative orbs studded with cloves make excellent ornaments, centerpieces, or gifts. Plus, they’re fun to make with the whole family!

Follow these easy steps to create orange pomanders and cheer your home with holiday cheer.

You’ll need:

• Fresh oranges (any size)
• Whole cloves
• Ribbon (optional for hanging or decorating)
• A toothpick or skewer (to make holes for cloves)

To make:

• Select fresh, firm oranges. Avoid overripe or soft ones, as they may not hold up during the process.
• Decide on a design for your pomander. You can create spirals, lines, shapes, or a fully studded orange.
• Use a toothpick or skewer to pre-poke holes in the orange skin where you’d like to place the cloves. This makes inserting them easier and prevents sore fingers.
• Push whole cloves into the pre-made holes. Continue until your design is complete.
• Cover the entire orange with cloves for a richly scented pomander, leaving little to no space between them.
• Tie a decorative ribbon around the orange for hanging or as a festive touch if you plan to display it in a bowl or centerpiece.
• To cure, place your pomander in a dry, well-ventilated area for a few days. This helps the orange dry out and prevents mold. Turn the pomander occasionally to ensure even drying.

Creative Ideas for Using Your Orange Pomanders:

• Ornaments: Attach a ribbon loop and hang them on your Christmas tree.
• Centerpieces: Arrange several pomanders with greenery, pinecones, or candles in a bowl or platter.
• Gifts: Wrap a few pomanders in cellophane with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful holiday gift.
• Air Fresheners: Place pomanders in closets or drawers for a natural, long-lasting scent.

You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!

Looking for a fun and creative way to decorate your Christmas tree as a family? This simple craft is a charming way to add a personal touch to your holiday decor. With just a few supplies, you can create a beautiful paper chain that the whole family will have fun making.

You’ll need:

• Craft paper
• Glue stick (we love Scotch permanent glue sticks)
• Paper cutter or scissors, clear ruler, and cutting mat (thick cardboard works, too)

To make:

1. Cut strips roughly 8.5 inches long and 1 inch wide.
2. Take one strip and apply glue to one end.
3. Bend the strip into a loop and press the glued ends together. Hold for a few seconds to let the glue set.
4. Add More Loops

Repeat this process, threading and gluing strips, until your chain is as long as you’d like. When you’re all done, hang it along a mantel, wrap it around a tree, or use it as a festive centerpiece for a party.

You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!

Nothing says cozy like a batch of homemade ginger cookies. With their warm spices and sweet cinnamon sugar coating, these cookies are a holiday staple—or a year-round treat for any cookie lover. Follow this simple recipe to create cookies perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

You’ll need:

• ⅓ cup cinnamon sugar (for rolling)
• 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup butter
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup dark molasses

This recipe makes 60 cookies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place cinnamon sugar in a small bowl and set it aside. This will be used to coat your cookie dough balls.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, ground ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir the mixture until blended, then sift it a second time into another bowl to ensure even mixing and a smooth dough.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add the white sugar and beat until well combined. Add the egg and molasses, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sift 1/3 of the dry ingredient mixture into the butter mixture, stirring until thoroughly blended. Repeat this process with the remaining dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 5: Shape the Dough
Pinch off small amounts of dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter using your hands.

Step 6: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated. Place them 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the tops are rounded and slightly cracked. To ensure even baking, switch the baking sheets between racks halfway through.

Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.

You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!

There’s nothing like a glass of rich, creamy eggnog to get you into the holiday spirit! Making eggnog at home is easier than you might think, and the result is far superior to anything store-bought. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a festive drink that’s perfect for gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, or even a special gift. Let’s get started!

You’ll need:

• 6 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon, for topping
• Alcohol (optional, see note)

To make:

Step 1: Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is light and creamy. This creates the rich base for your eggnog.

Step 2: Heat the Cream and Milk Mixture
In a saucepan, combine the cream, milk, nutmeg, and salt. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring often, until the mixture reaches a bare simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.

Step 3: Temper the Eggs
To prevent the eggs from scrambling, temper them by gradually adding the hot milk to the egg mixture:
– Start with a big spoonful of the hot milk, whisking vigorously.
– Repeat, adding one spoonful at a time, until most of the hot milk has been incorporated.

Step 4: Cook the Mixture
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan on the stove. Whisk constantly for about 1 minute, until the mixture thickens slightly or reaches 160°F on a thermometer. This step ensures food safety and gives the eggnog its creamy texture.

Step 5: Add Flavorings
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. If desired, add your favorite alcohol, such as rum, bourbon, or brandy, for an adult twist.

Step 6: Strain and Chill
Pour the eggnog through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher or container to remove any solids. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. The eggnog will continue to thicken as it cools.

Optional: Blend the chilled eggnog with 1–2 tablespoons of milk for a smoother consistency.

Serving Suggestions
Serve your homemade eggnog in festive glasses with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. Add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. It’s perfect for sipping by the tree or sharing with loved ones at holiday parties.

Storage Tips
Store your eggnog in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always keep it chilled, and give it a quick whisk before serving to mix any settled spices.

Alcohol Options
For a spiked eggnog, stir in 1/4–1/2 cup of your favorite spirit:
– Rum: Classic and smooth.
– Bourbon: Adds a rich, smoky flavor.
– Brandy: A sweet, warm finish.

For a family-friendly version, skip the alcohol and enjoy the pure, creamy flavor.

You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!

This Cranberry Orange Bread is a holiday favorite that blends the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange. Packed with crunchy pecans and a moist, tender crumb, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Let’s bake!

You’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1 ½ cups fresh cranberries
• ½ cup pecans, coarsely chopped
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup orange juice

To make:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure your bread comes out cleanly after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the orange zest, fresh cranberries, and chopped pecans. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, beat the softened butter, sugar, and egg together until smooth and creamy. Stir in the orange juice, which adds both flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Combine and Mix
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just moistened. Be careful not to overmix to keep your bread tender.

Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the bread springs back when lightly touched, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Wrap
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. For best results, wrap the cooled loaf in plastic wrap to retain moisture and allow the flavors to meld.

You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!

Looking for a delightful holiday treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? Peppermint bark combines creamy white chocolate, rich semi-sweet chocolate, and a refreshing peppermint crunch. Whether you’re making gifts or adding to your dessert spread, this homemade peppermint bark will be a showstopper. Here’s how to make it!

You’ll need:
– 12 ounces white chocolate, coarsely chopped and divided*
– 6 ounces semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped*
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons vegetable oil or coconut oil, divided
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, divided
– 2–3 candy canes crushed

To make:

Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan (or a baking sheet for thinner bark) with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Smooth out any wrinkles to ensure even layers. Set aside.

Bottom Layer: White Chocolate with Peppermint
Place 6 ounces of white chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Add 1/2 teaspoon oil.
Melt in 20-second intervals in the microwave, stirring well after each interval until smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
Stir in 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract.
Pour the melted chocolate into the prepared pan and spread into a smooth, even layer using a spatula.
Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes until almost set but not completely firm.

Middle Layer: Semi-Sweet Chocolate
Melt 6 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate with 1/2 teaspoon oil using the same method as above.
Stir in the remaining 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract.
Pour the melted chocolate over the white chocolate layer, spreading evenly.
Refrigerate for another 10–15 minutes until nearly set.

Top Layer: White Chocolate with Candy Cane Crunch
Melt the remaining 6 ounces of white chocolate with the last 1/2 teaspoon oil.
Pour over the semi-sweet chocolate layer, spreading smoothly.
Sprinkle the crushed candy canes evenly over the top.
Gently press the candy into the chocolate to ensure it sticks.

Set and Serve
Refrigerate the bark for about 1 hour or until completely set.
Remove from the pan and peel off the parchment paper or foil.
Break or cut into pieces of your desired size. If the bark has been refrigerated for more than 3–4 hours, allow it to soften at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to prevent layers from separating.

Storage Tips
Store the peppermint bark in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
In cooler months, it can stay at room temperature for a few days, though it may soften slightly.

You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!