Mocha Thumbprint Cookie Recipe

Baby Aria is very similar to my husband Lulu when it comes to her favorite foods. She loves vegetables and she adores sweets. Today I experimented with a batch of cookies I usually make when we have guests over for tea: thumbprint cookies. They're so pretty, especially with the crackle effect on the shortbread cookie dough and the whimsical design in the center indentation that almost resembles a crazy eye.

I flavored the cookie dough with cocoa powder and mocha paste. I filled them with vanilla chips and a drizzle of bittersweet chocolate, which came out just as great. Have a wonderful weekend and I look forward to sharing recipes next week in anticipation of Cinco de Mayo!

Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

I used gingerbread cookies as a fun and playful way to get to know my niece and nephew when I met them for the first time. I baked a few gingerbread men for them, and asked them what they thought of the designs. My little nephew is just a year old, so I didn't use any egg in the  gingerbread dough.

We're finally back from a few days in Rome and now are spending Christmas with my parents and my sister's family in Paris.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas!