I love the holidays; there is so much to do and see, and there's a wonderful feeling in the air. However, I do like the idea of keeping things simple over the holiday season. That is why I created this small, simple, and yet fun party idea that you can do with your family, girl friends, or neighbors that won't make you feel overwhelmed or exhausted. This is something that I put together in just a few hours and you can too!
For my simple holiday party idea, I wanted to do a small Hot Chocolate bar. So I whipped up some cocoa, gathered the trimmings, mugs, and also made one of my favorite cookies to go with it. This cookie is not what it seems, but is oh-so delicious and easy to make. It is made using RITZ crackers but looks like it belongs in a fancy patisserie (recipe below). For my party activity, I decided to provide my guests with an "Advent Calendar" making station. This is such an easy craft that would be prefect for your next family or girls night, or neighborhood get together. For this craft I used Snack Size Cookie Packs that I found just as I was finishing my shopping at Walmart (you can't miss the bins that are in next to the checkout).
Since my Advent Calendar is made using Snack Size Cookie Packs, I decided to write an act of service on the back of each "ornament" so that before any of the snacks can be eaten, the act of service must be completed. These can be small acts, like shoveling someone's driveway, paying someone a sincere compliment, or doing the dishes. But this way, it will evoke the spirit of giving (service, not gifts) this holiday season and make the Snack Size Cookie Packs taste even better.
To make the Snack Size Cookie Pack Christmas Tree/ Advent Calendar, you will need:
12 Snack Size Cookie Packs
Green Wrapping Paper
Hot Glue
Tape
11 Red Dots (cut out from card stock)
1 Yellow or White Star (also cut from card stock)
Fine Tip Marker
Directions:
Wrap each Snack Size Cookie Pack in green wrapping paper; make sure they are wrapped tightly. Following the pattern- 2 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 1, hot glue them together. Be sure to place hot glue all along the "long" side of the box so that they can support the weight and have a strong hold. Once your tree is built, write an act of service on the backside of each red dot "ornament" and then tape it with removable tape onto the ends of each box, placing the star at the top.
Each morning, peal off one of the ornaments, starting from the bottom. Read the act of service and spend the day looking for a way to complete it. At the end of the day, simply open the back end of wrapping paper and the Snack Size Cookie Pack, and remove the contents of the box. This way, you won't have to ruin the tree just to get to the goodies! Enjoy your cookies knowing that you helped make someone else's day better before treating yourself.
To make the RITZ sandwich cookies you will need:
2 RITZ Snack Size Cookie Packs
2 bags of White Chocolate Chips
Peanut Butter
Red Food Coloring (optional)
Sprinkles (optional)
Directions:
Spread the peanut butter on the unsalted side of a RITZ cracker and place another RITZ cracker on top so the salted side is facing out. Make sure to spread a somewhat thin layer of peanut butter (about 1-2 tsps) between the crackers. Too much peanut butter will make the next step messy.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the two bags of white chocolate chips- stirring consistently. When it has melted, add your food coloring and mix it well. Dip each RITZ cracker sandwich into the chocolate and cover completely, then place it on wax paper to set. Once you have covered all of the sandwiches but before they're completely set, sprinkle a little edible glitter on top for decoration.
Like I said at the beginning of this post, this party is simple and can even be thrown together at the last minute. It's perfect for just a fun family gathering without the stress of creating the perfect party. You can discover other creative party and holiday recipe ideas, HERE.
What is your favorite part about the Holiday Season?