Let’s discuss Christmas baking. You might think that Christmas is too far off to be preparing holiday goodies, but I like to get my holiday baking out of the way in October. Is that possible? Why not? First let me tell you why this is a good idea.
The holidays will over take you. You will find yourself in December trying to decorate, mail gifts early, address the Christmas cards, purchase gifts for so many others, plan and attend holiday parties and gatherings, and there will not be enough hours in a day to do everything that needs to be done.
Baking early will also save you money. Did you know that if you buy butter, yes real butter, in October it is sometimes as much as half the cost as it will be in December? Also many other baking items go up in price during the holidays, supply and demand. I noticed even this week that flour and sugars, granulated, powdered, and brown were on sale at my local grocery store.
While there are still pockets of quiet time you begin to do your baking. You can freeze just about anything you bake for the holidays, if you plan and do it right. The place to start is purchasing storage containers, pick up some extra containers that are airtight but make sure to measure your freezer before you go to ensure you don't get the wrong size! Since you are going to need freezer space go ahead and use the items in the freezer now before the space is needed, this will add savings to your grocery budget and those dollars will be useful when you go Christmas shopping.
Today if you have time, check out this website www.flylady.net. Go to cruising through the holiday section. Don’t take my word for it…listen to the one that inspired me about 8 years ago. December has become a time for enjoying my family, my friends, and the season of true peace on earth and goodwill toward men.
I will begin my baking this week. Can't wait to share some recipes and ideas in the coming weeks. Breads freeze best and longest so I will start there and work my way down my own list of holiday favorites. Start looking for your holiday favorites and we can cruise through the holidays together!