Salted Toffee and Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

New Years Eve. Such a big night, so much pressure, so many hopes and dreams. This year's New Years Even I really felt the pressure and my hopes and dreams were high! We were headed to one of my best friend's NYE party and in addition to the usual bevies and excellent company, guests were tasked with making cookies for a friendly cookie competition and swap. I knew I needed a stand out cookie that strayed slightly from the beaten path, but would impress. I went with a salted toffee and dark chocolate chunk oatmeal cookie (adapted from this recipe) based off some other cookies I have had,  the coveted Castle Press cookie. This is one of the best cookies I've had and nailing down the recipe is almost impossible. There's something about the texture that I can't quite put my finger on. If you've had these cookies, you know how incredible they are and I thought this would be an excellent style cookie for this party, but I added a bit of a twist with my liberal salting. This is a pretty basic cookie recipe, but adding salt really takes it to the next level. If you're looking for something new, I think you'll be happy with this!

I was feeling good about this cookie, but had no idea what I was up against. I consider myself a decent enough baker, so I felt somewhat confident. The cookie received a positive reception. But, the question is, did I win the cookie contest?  No, I did not! I'm happy to say one of my girls brought home the best all around at one of her first baking attempts and she knocked it out of the park. Killer cookie bar, E! My husband and I made a chocolate chip Rugelach as well which brought home the "best looking" prize. Thank you Ina Garten, for this Rugelach gem, which is pretty easy and has been a reliable crowd pleaser.

How did you ring in the new year? Have you tried any new recipes yet?

I Bet You Can't Have Just One

Well I'm back from my honeymoon and it was an amazing trip! We went to Cancun and enjoyed gorgeous sunshine, turquoise water, tropical drinks and much needed relaxation. I wish I were laying by the pool today, but I'm back in action and have to share one of my favorite cookie recipes with you.

Flourless.Peanut.Butter.Chocolate.Chunk.Cookies.with.Fleur.de.Sel. Are you drooling yet?

This is one of my favorite cookie recipes for a few reasons:

1. So easy to throw together
2. Salty and sweet
3. Gooey
4. Crazy good! 

I found the recipe for these cookies a few years ago and it has been a mainstay since then. I've made these cookies for friends, parties, coworkers, and just because- and they always seem to disappear too quickly. The sweet and salty mix makes them addictive and you could easily pack away half the batch without noticing.  The last time I made these cookies, I ate a few and then froze the rest to have on hand when the craving strikes. Because there is no flour, these cookies are also gluten free and totally passover friendly!

I can't recommend these cookies enough and you probably have everything you need to make them at home right now. So, why not do a little baking? You'll be happy you did!