Almost Ready

I am almost ready for Christmas.

Two gifts will most likely be delayed..envelopes with photos will have to suffice. ( One is mine..and  I know what it is.)

The last of the packages have been wrapped.  The wrapping paper mess has been cleared away.

Chance guards the top of the stairs.  He is just a turd.  He knows something is up.  Company should be coming and why are they not here yet?

Today is the day to bake.  Some Pumpkin Bread and maybe some Sugar Cookies in the shape of trees that Far Guy had a hankering for.  I am searching for Mary Lou’s  Sugar Cookie recipe..I know I have it here someplace…it was the best ever sugar cookie recipe. 

Far Guy will make his famous “cinnamon” rolls which are really Caramel Rolls that everyone looks forward to on Christmas Morning. He always used to use frozen bread dough.  Last year we taste tested two bread machine recipes.  We couldn’t remember which one was the best..so we had to taste test one of the recipes again.  A horrible job but someone had to do it. (We froze most of them!)

“Cinnamon” Caramel Roll Dough

7 1/2 ounces water

1 egg

3 Cups Bread Flour

4 Tablespoons Sugar

3 Tablespoons Powdered Milk

1 1/2 teaspoon salt

5 Tablespoons butter

2 teaspoons yeast

Set the bread machine on dough setting and let it do the work for you!

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Far Guys Super Duper Caramel Recipe

1 Stick of butter

1 Cup of Brown Sugar

3 dashes of milk ( about 1/4 cup) Dash is his word..not mine.

He stands and stirs and stirs as this mixture cooks up..it has to be just right.  Not sugary and not break your teeth rock hard.  It is a science..at least that is what he says. When it is exactly right..The caramel goes into the bottom of an 8 x 13 pan. ( It should flow..says Far Guy.)

The dough goes on the floured counter and gets rolled out.  Butter, white sugar and cinnamon are spread on the dough, then it is rolled up and cut into slices using a piece of dental floss.  Put slices on top of the caramel.  Raise about 2 hours.  Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Makes a pan full..about 12 rolls.

Yes, we are almost ready..a few more odds and ends..and we will be all set:)