Toffee Chocolate Crunch Bars

This is an unbelievably simple cookie to make, but people will think you created a special treat. Very few ingredients also make this an inexpensive addition to your holiday.

OVEN: 350 degrees

Line a greased 9 x 13" cookie sheet (with sides) with one layer of saltine crackers.

In a small pan, melt one cup butter with one cup brown sugar. Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Pour sugar mixture evenly over crackers. Bake for 7 minutes.

Remove from oven and sprinkle with one 12 oz package of chocolate chips. Allow to melt and spread evenly over top of crackers and sugar. Cool completely and break into uneven pieces.

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Almond Glazed Sugar Cookies

A perennial Christmas favorite, this cookie is simple, yet delicious. It also makes a wonderful cookie for a bridal shower or tea.

OVEN: 400 degrees

1 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Combine butter, sugar and almond extract in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed until creamy (1-2 minutes). Reduce speed to low; add all remaining ingredients. Beat until well mixed (another 1-2 minutes).

Roll dough into 1 inch balls; place 2 inches apart on cookie sheet. Flatten balls to 1/4 inch thickness with bottom of a buttered glass dipped in sugar. Bake for 7-9 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheet. Cool completely.

GLAZE:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon almond extract
4-5 teaspoons water
Sliced almonds

Stir together all glaze ingredients in small bowl with wire whisk. Decorate cooled cookies with glaze and sliced almonds.

Makes: 3 1/2 dozen cookies.

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