Iced Hermits

It seems like Christmas comes earlier and earlier each year. The other day, I was at Macy's and was shocked to see that the Christmas trees were already up and they were selling Christmas decorations. I mean, come on, it's not even Halloween yet. That said, treats are a year-round thing, so I see nothing wrong with trying out recipes in preparation for those Christmas platters and gift baskets.

For this week's 12 Weeks of Christmas Cookies, I decided to make Martha Stewart's Iced Hermits. They are loaded with a triple ginger kick - ginger powder, candied ginger in the bars themselves, AND a sprinkling of more candied ginger on top.

The final result is oh so good. Chewy, spicy bars and the icing is not to be skipped, it is literally the icing on the cake. It all made for a delicious experience. Plus, the candied ginger on top makes them look all sparkly, almost like Christmas ornaments themselves. Yes, Christmas in the stores can wait, but as for the Christmas treats, I say bring them on!

Iced Hermits (Martha Stewart)

1/2 c. butter

1 3/4 c. flour

3/4 tsp. baking powder

3/4 tsp. baking soda

1 Tbsp. ginger powder

1 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. nutmeg

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. white pepper

pinch cloves

1 1/4 c. dark brown sugar (I used light brown)

1 egg

1 egg yolk

1/4 c. molasses

1 c. candied ginger, chopped

Icing:

1/4 c. brown sugar

2 Tbsp. milk

2 Tbsp. butter

1 tsp. vanilla

1 c. powdered sugar

Butter a 10x15" baking sheet. Combine the dry ingredients. Cream the butter and brown sugar. Add the molasses, then the egg and egg yolk. Stir in 1/2 c. candied ginger, then mix in the flour mixture. Spread in the baking sheet and bake at 350F for 18-22 min.

For the icing: Combine the brown sugar, milk, and butter over medium heat. Cook till the butter melts and sugar dissolves. (I just did this in the microwave) Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla and powdered sugar.

Drizzle the bars with the icing and sprinkle with the rest of the candied ginger. Let sit 15 min. to let icing set then cut into bars.

Makes 36 squares