richberry Hazelnut Christmas Cookies

Not so fancy as any other Christmas cookies, but these ice box cookies are what the children would love to munch on a cold Christmas eve. No sugar added, try this with a twist. Try it with richberry and see for yourself.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup butter, softened

• 1 egg

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ cup ground hazelnuts

• 1 egg, beaten

Directions:

• Step 1 Beat the butter, egg, and salt together in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Stir in the flour and baking soda, and mix just until blended. Mix in the hazelnuts.

• Step 2 Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape into 2 1/2 inch log. Wrap snugly in wax paper, and refrigerate overnight.

• Step 3 Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease baking sheets.

• Step 4 Unwrap, and cut the log into 1/8 inch thick slices. Place on prepared baking sheets 2 inches apart. Brush tops with beaten egg and, if desired, decorate with sprinkles.

• Step 5 Bake in preheated oven until edges are lightly browned, 12 to 15 minutes. Cool on racks, and store in an airtight tin.

Consume Miracle Berry:

Just before digging in, chew 1 or more freeze-dried miracle berry (this can also be done during the preparation of ingredients). Ensure to remove pits to avoid a bitter taste.

Fact:

The active ingredient miraculin from miracle berry will turn sour foods such as lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, non-fat yoghurt and other citrus food to taste sweet without adding sugar. We recommend two halves or 2 servings for maximum effectiveness. Make sure to follow instructions from the back of the packaging.

Note: Sometimes you may need to add at least 5-7% of the total quantity of sugar required, this is due to the chemistry of the food, however, you may skip this as you wish. The goal is to totally reduce sugar and yet experience the same taste.

Calorie savings:

1/2 cup sugar - 386 calories