Innholdsfortegnelse for Christmas 2010 i The Cottage Journal

A mixture of handcrafted and carefully selected decorations from years gone by may be your style, or you may prefer to “freshen up” your décor this year. Whatever your desire, you’ll find looks to create a beautiful backdrop for seasonal entertaining and the many memories that come along with the holidays. If you don’t want to redo your entire home at once, think about adding new bows, wreaths for doors, or mantel decorations this Christmas. From a quick and natural fresh fruit and greenery look to an elegant and shimmering designer look, we’re certain we have something to perfectly echo the soul of your home. this issue we showcase keepsake collections, as well as newer and more modern options. Some of our ideas include simple, creatively handcrafted trees like the…

A holiday kitchen and dining room setting uses whimsical touches to welcome guests. Dining room chairs wear cloth scarves with ribbon and faux candy ties, while the kitchen chairs are simply wrapped in striped ribbons. Dots, elves, and makebelieve candies adorn chandeliers, windows, and packages. A shelf in the beverage service area of the kitchen is emptied to display a Christmas scene complete with a miniature tree and snowmen. A tray of snowman glasses and peppermint-swirled mugs awaits the pourable holiday cheer!…

A comfortable cottage full of exposed beams, beautiful crown molding, and rustic brickwork doesn’t require glitz or glam for the holidays. This home is clutter-free, with decorations adding touches of festive cheer in just the right places.…

The owners enjoy entertaining during the holidays, so they keep their rooms simple and clutter-free to host many guests. A plain wreath of greenery introduces the theme as guests enter to find a fresh fir tree with a homemade star on top and two tree forms atop the buffet in the dining room—all bare but for the single garlands winding around them. Candles bring ambience and a sweet scent to the room, but the guests are the main attraction in this cottage setting. Just as the front porch reflects the laidback attitude of the homeowners, so does the classic approach to celebrating the holidays. Fresh greenery and foliage that look as though they were scooped from the yard are the fanciest decoration you’ll find. China and crystal are subtly placed…

This cottage exudes holiday cheer from the moment guests arrive. The breathtaking display on the front door welcomes one and all. Traditional Christmas colors are found in the greenery and red ribbons and bows of the swags. Two beautiful wreaths hang from the front-door windows to add extra color. Inside, the crimson dining room is the perfect place to entertain. The bold color of the walls means decorations can be simple. Christmas china, red napkins, and little holly sprigs atop gold chargers steal the show.…

MERINGUE SURPRISES Makes 10 dozen 4 egg whites ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon cream of tartar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1½ cups sugar 1½ cups chopped nuts 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips 1. Preheat oven to 350°. 2. Cover cookie sheet with parchment paper. 3. Beat egg whites, salt, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. 4. Add sugar gradually, beating until stiff. Fold in nuts and chocolate chips. 5. Drop mixture by teaspoon. Bake 25 minutes. KAREN’S COCOONS Makes 5 dozen 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened 4 tablespoons powdered sugar 2¼ cups all-purpose flour 2 cups chopped pecans 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Powdered sugar for coating 1. Preheat oven to 300° 2. Mix butter with sugar and flour. Add pecans and vanilla extract. Using…

MENU Sausage Breakfast Casserole Hot Curried Fruit Double Cheese Grits Casserole Sweet Potato Pecan Muffins Cranberry Splash A buffet-style Christmas meal is casual and conversational, making the day much more relaxed for the host. Although it takes just as much work to plan, a buffet allows the host time to mix and mingle with guests. CRANBERRY SPLASH Makes 1 gallon 8 cups cranberry juice cocktail, chilled 8 cups pineapple-orange juice, chilled 1. Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher, stirring well. Serve over ice, if desired. SAUSAGE BREAKFAST CASSEROLE Makes 8 servings 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerator crescent rolls 1 pound ground pork sausage 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 6 eggs, lightly beaten 1½ cups milk ½ teaspoon salt Garnish: tomato wedges 1. Preheat oven to…

A full dinner menu is not necessary when appetizers are hearty and full of flavor. Finger foods are easy for partygoers to pick up and nibble on as they visit with friends. RUBY SANGRIA Serves 6 to 8 1 750-milliliter bottle red wine ½ cup brandy ½ cup orange-flavored liqueur ½ cup fresh orange juice ¼ cup sugar 2 cups orange wedges 2 cups red apple wedges 2 cups green apple wedges 2 cups grapes 1 750-millileter bottle sparkling water, chilled Garnish: Grapes and orange wedges, red and green apple wedges (about 1 cup each) threaded on small wooden skewers (optional) 1. Combine the red wine, brandy, liqueur, orange juice, and sugar in large pitcher or plastic container; stir well. Add the oranges, red and green apples, and grapes. Chill…

GINGERBREAD SCONES Makes 12 scones 2 cups self-rising flour ¼ cup firmly packed dark brown sugar 1½ teaspoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1⁄8 teaspoon ground cloves ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes 1⁄3 cup buttermilk 1⁄3 cup unsulfured molasses 1 large egg, lightly beaten 2 pieces candied ginger, cut into 1⁄8-inch squares 1 cup cold heavy cream 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar 1. Preheat oven to 400°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Using a pastry blender, cut butter into flour mixture until mixture resembles coarse meal. 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and molasses. Add buttermilk mixture to flour mixture, and stir until dough is…

mix it up Don’t be afraid to use vibrant colors for the holiday season. Add some life by bringing in bright greens, golds, reds, pinks, and other happy colors. Colorful ribbons also make a bold statement. All you need to fashion a fabulous holiday wreath is a bit of creativity and some exciting embellishments. In no time, you’ll have the perfect piece for welcoming guests during the holiday season.…

Although the whirlwind of activities and extravagant displays synonymous with the season are all part of the excitement, there are times when simplicity makes a welcome appearance. Gather the family around the table for a Christmas morning brunch that relies on subtle Yuletide symbols to make the setting sing. Welcome everyone with ribbonwrapped chairs sporting holly ornaments caught up in bows, then delight them with a beautiful centerpiece of white roses, baby’s breath, and hypericum berries surrounding pillar candles. Use coordinating linens, berry-bedecked dinnerware, and festive glasses for a cheerful touch, then hang an eyecatching wreath at the window to preside over this simple but heartwarmingly perfect occasion.…

WHETHER nutcrackers, GLASS ORNAMENTS, HOLIDAY CHINA, OR special gifts from loved ones, COLLECTIONS MAKE A BEAUTIFUL ADDITION to your home. Nutcrackers are one of the most popular collections at Christmas. It’s no wonder, because for many families, these beautiful handcrafted pieces are traditional mementos. The intricate detail that goes into carving the figures makes each one special.…

wrapped in white keep it simple This home’s open floor plan wraps around a central core. The colors are a soft white that repeats in the walls, matching slipcovers, and a light wash on the fir-plank floors. A warm robin’s-egg blue serves as the primary accent color in pillows and a painted pedestal table. The holiday décor follows suit. The white-flocked tree features ornaments with the repeated blue hue. The same color is in all the gift-wrap, including the favors on the table, and the tablecloth again echoes the same blue. For variation, the hydrangeas and roses add a pastel color that doesn’t compete with the overall theme. The result is an effect that decks the halls in serene, sweet color. mix it up Pastel flowers are a soft look…

This warm home exudes classic charm. Nothing is overdone, yet every nook and cranny tell of the Christmas season. Fresh greenery and natural fruits and berries are used throughout, with each space boasting its own special touch of luxurious ribbon, colorful tassels, warm candles, or quaint Christmas stockings. less is more Fresh fruits, berries, and greenery not only give the space color, but fill it with a sweet aroma. These are more cost-effective than expensive ornaments and just as pleasing to the eye. White candles along the mantel offer the same twinkling glow as electric Christmas lights. set for a king Whether you host a holiday party or your family’s Christmas dinner, the dining room must be made ready for a celebration. A lion statue peacefully rests among elegant pieces…

A spice-filled aroma in the kitchen can make you feel joyful and sets the tone for guests to arrive with a welcome! Whether it’s cinnamon or cardamon, a delicious combination in sweets or beverages pleases the palate. The most traditional spices are cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and ginger. All have a warming smell and add a particularly distinct flavor and fragrance to beverages or sweets. SPICED JAM TARTLETS Makes 24 bite-size tarts 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon sugar ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground ginger ¼ teaspoon allspice 1⁄8 teaspoon salt ¼ cup cream cheese, softened 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 2 tablespoons milk ¾ cup fruit jam, such as fig, pear, or apple Garnish: dried fruit and raisins 1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar,…

MENU Holiday Italian Salad Deep-Fried Turkey Cornbread Dressing Squash & Zucchini Casserole Broccoli & Cheese Stuff ed Potatoes Glazed Carrots Easy Orange Rolls This menu features Deep-Fried Turkey conveniently cooked outdoors, leaving the kitchen as the primary area for preparing all the trimmings. Make the Holiday Italian Salad and White-Chocolate Mousse Cake a day in advance to make hosting the affair less hectic. HOLIDAY ITALIAN SALAD Makes 8 servings 4 cups torn green-leaf lettuce 4 cups torn red-leaf lettuce 1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips 1 orange bell pepper, cut into thin strips 1 recipe Creamy Balsamic Italian Dressing (recipe follows) 1. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except dressing. Add dressing, tossing gently. Serve immediately. CREAMY BALSAMIC ITALIAN DRESSING Makes about…

MENU Prosciutto and Brie Dip Mini Potato Skins with Horseradish Dipping Sauce Pizza Rolls with Marinara Sauce Pecan Pie Tartlets Kahlúa and Coff ee Fudge Amaretto Cheesecake Squares Hot Rum Punch PROSCIUTTO AND BRIE DIP Makes 10 to 12 servings 1 cup sour cream 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 3 (5-ounce) containers crème de brie* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1½ cups chopped prosciutto, (about 6 ounces) ¼ cup chopped green onion ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes 1. Preheat oven to 375°. In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, crème de brie, and Parmesan cheese. Beat at medium speed with electric mixer until smooth. Add prosciutto, green onion, and red pepper flakes, beating to combine. Spoon mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish. Bake 15 to 20…

MENU Creamy Cranberry-White Chocolate Delight Spirited Eggnog Coff ee Punch Orange Hot Chocolate Chai Latte Candy Cane Cocoa Coff ee Butter Rum Cider SPIRITED EGGNOG COFFEE PUNCH Makes 6 to 8 servings 4 cups eggnog 3 cups hot strong coffee 1 cup bourbon 3 tablespoons cinnamon syrup* Whipped cream (optional) Ground cinnamon (optional) 1. In a large saucepan, heat eggnog and coffee over medium heat until hot. Stir in bourbon and cinnamon syrup. Top each serving with whipped cream, and sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired. Serve immediately. For testing purposes, our test kitchen used Monin Cinnamon Premium Gourmet Syrup. Available at monin.com. CREAMY CRANBERRYWHITE CHOCOLATE DELIGHT Makes 6 to 8 servings 3 (4-ounce) bars white chocolate, chopped 2 cups heavy whipping cream, divided 3 cups whole milk 3 cups cranberry…

Filled with nostalgia for years gone by and anticipation for those yet to come, Christmas invites family home to take pleasure in the traditions we’ve come to know and love. Seasonal shades of red, green, and gold join touches of orange and amber to create an ambiance so rich and warm that the morning chill simply melts away.…

There are many ways to incorporate ribbon into holiday decorating, and one special way is by fashioning a wreath. A ribbon wreath is cheerful and can be used year after year. It’s easy to put together and fun to choose different ribbons to accent the room. Another delightful way to use ribbon is to take an old tablecloth and cut holes along the edges to stream long ribbons through. It’s quick and adds festive pops of color to the room. Shiny glass ornaments hang from sheer ribbons tied to the chandelier over the dining room table.…

Personalized stockings hung by the chimney make every family member feel they have a special place at home for the holidays, whether they live there or have moved across the country. Some families lovingly pull out the same decorations every year, with only a few new baubles here and there—a meaningful reflection of all of the happy holiday seasons spent together.…

back to basics Don’t forget that some of the finest embellishments for your home can be found in the backyard or alongside a country road. Simple bowls of pine needles, pinecones, and nuts add a beautiful natural touch. GOLDEN twinkle lights AND ornaments WARM THE CORNER. STOCKINGS hang for Santa TO pop in AND STUFF FULL OF SURPRISES FOR Christmas MORNING holiday welcome Soften the doorway and the walls around the front entrance of your home to greet visitors. This doorway uses a look that can last from Thanksgiving through the Christmas holidays with permanent pieces.…

CINNAMON-SPICED CRABAPPLES Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 18 minutes | Processing Time: 20 minutes | Makes four to five (1-pint/½-liter) jars of crabapples This recipe will be ideal for the cook with a crabapple tree in the yard or in a friend’s yard! However, during the fall months, you’ll also often see crabapples for sale at farmers’ markets. These small, adorable, blushed-red apples are too hard and tart to eat out of hand, but they make incredible jams and jellies. My favorite way to preserve them is to pack them into jars whole and then fill the jar with a spice-infused, sweet pickling liquid. Once processed, these rosy orbs are suspended in a transparent, pinktinged liquid—delectably cute and wonderful for gift giving. They make a terrific accompaniment to…

MENU Cranberry Muffins with Orange Crumble Topping Herbed Home Fries with Caramelized Onions Ham, Mushroom, and Spinach Strata Hot Baked Fruit with Granola Nut Topping Sparkling Brunch Punch Makes 1 dozen 1 recipe Orange Crumble Topping (recipe follows) 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder ¼ teaspoon salt 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries 2 large eggs ½ cup butter, melted and cooled ½ cup milk ½ cup sour cream 1. Preheat oven to 400°. Grease and sugar a 12-cup muffin pan; set aside. 2. Prepare Orange Crumble Topping; set aside. 3. In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cranberries, stirring to combine. 4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, butter, milk, and sour cream. Add egg mixture to flour…

MENU Shrimp Mousse with Saff ron Aïoli in Phyllo Cups Roasted Beef Finger Sandwiches with Kalamata Mustard Butter Honey Scones with Apricot Preserves Brandy Cream in Chocolate Cups Lemon Glazed Miniature Cakes Makes 36 cordial cups 2 cups heavy cream ½ cup confectioners’ sugar 3 tablespoons brandy 3 (3.15-ounce) boxes molded chocolate cordial cups Thinly sliced strawberries Sugared Almonds (recipe follows) 1. In medium bowl and using electric mixer at medium speed, beat cream until thickened. 2. Add confectioners’ sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating continually until stiff peaks form. Stir in brandy. 3. Spoon brandy cream into chocolate cordial cups. Place each cup on strawberry slice, and sprinkle with Sugared Almonds. ROASTED BEEF FINGER SANDWICHES WITH KALAMATA MUSTARD BUTTER Makes 15 sandwiches ½ cup butter, softened ½ cup…

MENU Creamy Herbed Spinach Soup Ham & Jarlsberg Sandwiches Roast Beef Roll-Ups with Maytag Blue Cheese & Caramelized Onions Gingerbread Fingers with Orange Crème Filling Dark Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Cake HAM & JARLSBERG SANDWICHES Makes 6 sandwiches ¼ cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons honey mustard 1 recipe Parmesan Rosemary Bread (recipe follows) 6 thin slices Virginia ham 6 thin slices Jarlsberg cheese 1. In small bowl, combine mayonnaise and honey mustard. Slice bread into ½-inch slices. 2. Using 2-inch square cutter, cut 12 squares of bread. Spread mayonnaise mixture evenly over one side of each bread slice. Top six slices with ham and cheese. Place remaining prepared bread over cheese. CREAMY HERBED SPINACH SOUP Makes 5 cups 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 small onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups…