Girl's Weekend

Is there anything better for a Mom of 3 to get away to the cabin sans kids with adult friends?  There might be, but I can't think of anything right now.  Would it have been better if I remembered the batch of cookies I made beforehand for the weekend (that I stuck in the freezer), perhaps, but we seemed to tide ourselves over just fine with the Debbie cakes, 6-7 bags of chips, candy, and Snicker's bars. 


#379 Raspberry nut pinwheels
This rather plain butter slice and bake cookie was fun to make, but Mike and I rated them a 2 and a 1 respectively; maybe it's okay that they were left in the freezer.  The teachers that benefited from the batch did comment on how good they were though.  Maybe they were just being polite. 

Spa day!

#380 Crispy Cereal Meringues
Your typical meringue cookie but with chocolate rice krispies and a drizzle of chocolate on top. 
These were very popular, good thing I didn't forget this batch.

4 egg whites
1/4 tsp cream of tartar
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup sugar
2 cups chocolate flavored crisp rice cereal
1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 tsp vegetable shortening

In a large bowl, beat egg whites, cream of tartar and salt until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until stiff peaks form, about 6 minutes.  Fold in cereal.  

Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 1 in. apart onto baking sheets coated with cooking spray.  Bake at 300 for 35-40 minutes or until firm to the touch.  Remove to wire racks to cool.  

In a microwave or heavy saucepan, melt the chocolate chips with the shortening.  Transfer to a small resealable bag plastic bag; cut a small hole in the corner of the bag.  Drizzle melted chocolate over meringues.  Place on waxed paper to set.