spring cleaning, er, baking

Today, I planned on doing some baking. And then I realised that I didn't have any eggs and that all the grocery stores were closed. So, I was left with only one option -- shortbread.



I tend to associate shortbread with Christmas, probably because that's when my grandma used to bake dozens and dozens of tiny shortbread cookies (among other treats) to be delivered to family and friends. Her cookies are small circles dotted with just a bit of frosting and one small chunk each of red and green maraschino cherries. I've always been a bit scared to try making shortbread and I don't know why. When I tackled shortbread for the first time this past Christmas, I was quite pleased with the results. It's by far not the best shortbread I've ever had, but not nearly as daunting as I thought. Five ingredients, and a little elbow grease, are all you need for buttery, flaky shortbread cookies.







I stumbled upon some Easter-y cookie cutters while out running errands yesterday and voila, a great welcome to spring. Inspired by the often bright baked goods over at Yarnstorm, I mixed up some bright glazes to encourage spring to visit us here Nova Scotia.





My cookie decorating skills leave something to be desired, but there's no denying these colours. At least I can pretend that spring is living up to its promises...