Peace on Earth... and cookies.

Christmas in the Forest by Jan Wahl is a classic I just recently discovered. 

Along with Eleanor Schick's lovely artwork, Jan Wahl's poetic language gently narrates each page as the animals work together to celebrate Christmas.

The story is old-fashioned, quiet, and oh so magical!

And to go along with such a peaceful story... World Peace Cookies! Another classic in cookie form, Doris Greenspan's famous recipe might not bring peace on earth, but it's sure to bring a smile to the chocolate lovers in your life.

1 1/4 cups flour
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 t baking soda
1 stick plus 3 T unsalted butter
2/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 t sea salt
1 t vanilla extract
3/4 cup store-bought mini chocolate chips

Beat butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Add flour, cocoa, and baking soda. Incorporate until just mixed. Fold-in chocolate chips.

Divide dough in half and form into two logs, about 1 1/2 inches thick. Wrap in saran and allow to chill for 3 hours.

When you're ready to bake, slice every 1/2 inch and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Reshape any slices that crumble. Bake at 325 for 12 minutes. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk!