Christmas Around the Home: In the Kitchen

I can't think of anything more traditional than treats at Christmas. Every year, I look forward to getting a plate of cookies (and the always-present Rice Krispies) from my grandma. Ever since I started going out with Chad, we've always gone over to his parent's house for the sugar cookie decorating extravaganza. And every Christmas Eve, we have our food spread of crackers, meats, mini cheesecakes, and apple cider when we open gifts.  I am eager to start my own food traditions with Chad (and my future babies).

Tradition and food go hand-in-hand wouldn't you agree?

Let me just tell you, it was hard to narrow the choices down to nine. I spent days looking in bloggers' archives, Martha's website, and Real Simple. There is just too much good out there. I am just giving you a little sample of what I like; look and see what you can find out there that will inspire you.

In Case You're Interested:
01. Handmade Organic Gingerbread "Gift Tags" {the cutest looking treat on earth}
02. Peanut Brittle {I try to like it, but it always gets stuck in my teeth!}
03. Handmade Edible Gingerbread Mansion {I vote that you make your own--this one is a pretty penny}
04. Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies
05. Holiday Tree Brownies {I want to give dozens of these away, don't you think they would make you so happy?!}
06. Death By Rum Ball
07. Christmas Hats and Stockings
08. Peppermint and Dark Chocolate Spoons
09. Peppermint Candy Picks

9 Treats deserve 9 Links:
* Don't put your cupcakes in regular liners--try these Christmas cupcake liners.
* I would put my Starbucks Gingerbread Latte on one of these letterpress coasters.
* Here's a sassy little Mrs. Claus apron.
* Now that you've liner your cupcakes, make sure to put on these Christmas cupcake pinwheels.
* Visit this site for some holiday cookie inspiration.
* You could put your homemade goodies in these holiday treat bags.
* Or, you could use these personalized holiday labels.
* I am so inspired to make that first Christmas cake.
* Now this is some pretty treat bag packaging.

Do tell: what are your Christmas food traditions?