The first batch of goodies.

One of my favorite things about Christmas are the "smells" of Christmas. Evergreen, cinnamon, sugar cookies, gingerbread, peppermint, hot chocolate... all of these scents trigger special Christmas memories or traditions for me.
I love the smell of freshly baked cookies and my first batch for this Christmas season are these cute little spritz trees. My Grandma Ruth always made spritz cookies at Christmas time. She made dozens of varieties. It just seems right to carry on that tradition, but I am only able to make the tree come out looking right. So instead of varying the shapes, I vary the favors. These cookies are orange flavored with fresh grated orange zest and orange juice. They smell amazing and taste...mmmmmm!!!
Now I am thinking I should have waited because they will more than likely be gone before Christmas! Oh well, then I can make some more... maybe almond flavored??