Easy Frango Mints:

*1/2 c. butter * 3 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
*1 1/2 c. powdered sugar * 2 tsp. vanilla
*2 eggs * 1 tsp. peppermint extract

Line a 8 by 8 pan with foil, then using a stick of butter, coat the foil with a thin layer of butter. Melt 2 c. chocolate chips (set aside the extra 1 c.) in the top of a double broiler. In mixing bowl cream butter & pwd. sugar together. Add eggs and beat well. Add melted chocolate, vanilla, and beat until smooth. Add peppermint and mix well. Chill in foiled pan. When completely stiff, melt then melt 1 c. chocolate chips and spread a thin layer on the top. Chill again. (If desired, you can flip, and add another layer on the bottom.) After hardened cut into small squares. These make great neighborly christmas gifts.


Hot Wassail Pot:

*46 oz. orange juice *1 Tbs. whole cloves
*46 oz. pineapple juice *6 cinnamon sticks
*6 c. apple juice *1/2 c. cinnamon candy
*1/2 c. sugar *1 tsp. all spice

Combine all ingredients in a 5 qt pot over medium heat. Bring to a boil, cook 5 minutes. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain before serving. Great for parties. I like to use my crockpot and instead of using the spices I use mulling spices (Williams & Sonoma) and a tea infuser. This makes your house smell of Christmasy goodness!