One of my favorite things about food is that it has the ability to conjure up so many great family memories. The first bite or the first smell can take you back to times that were happy, sad, comforting, and unforgettable.
When I was on Facebook yesterday, I came across an update from Jyl that talked about Mary Alice’s Banana Cookies. She brought up this cookie recipe a few times in the past and I always made a mental note that I had to be sure to bake them. When I saw the update yesterday, I decided that was my final reminder, especially since I had bananas that were begging to be baked. I walked down to my kitchen and took inventory on all of the ingredients that I had on hand to prepare the recipe.
As soon as they were out of the oven, I snapped a few photos and sent the virtual package of cookies to Jyl to let her know that I was thinking about her. What I got in return was a virtual hug from her family and an amazing story about her grandma. These cookies are her family’s comfort food and they conjure up so many happy family memories.
After learning more about the story behind Mary Alice’s Banana Cookies Recipe, I couldn’t help but think that I too had a cookie recipe that reminded me of a grandparent. Whenever I bite into a windmill cookie, I immediately think of one of my most favorite people, my grandpa. He passed away years ago but my eyes still well up at the thought of him. I looked up to him so much and treasured the special bond that we had. We had the type of relationship that is so hard to describe in words but for any of you who have had a close bond to a grandparent, I’m sure you know the feeling.
Whenever I would visit him, I knew where I could find his secret stash of windmill cookies. They were always in the cupboard above the refrigerator. And, luckily for me, there was always a step stool conveniently placed right next to the refrigerator. Some of my favorite moments with my grandpa are when we would snack on these cookies while sipping from ice-cold glasses of milk.
Whether it’s sending virtual hugs through a cookie recipe from across the country or freezing a moment in time with loved ones over the simple act of dunking cookies into a glass of milk…it’s amazing what food can do to your spirit and your soul.
What food conjures up great family memories for you?
The smell of chocolate chip cookies (my husbands favorite) always brings me back to the first time I made a batch for him. He had me at 'hello' and I had him at chocolate chip cookies.
The cookies look wonderful. I think my choice would be Amish Apple Cake – which is actually like a pudding. I love your blog. This was my first visit but I will be back. I hope you have a great day. Blessings…Mary
Hi
How do you cut in shortening in this recipe.