I love Christmas music.  It’s one of my favorite aspects of this season (along with family time, food, smells and shopping)!  I’m always a little annoyed when they start playing Christmas music in October, but now that it is a more appropriate timing, I can be heard singing it loudly whenever I (think I) am alone.  How can you not love something that is telling you that “it’s the most wonderful time of the year!”?

When we were little and I was told we could sing only one more song together before bedtime, I would always choose the 12 Days of Christmas because it was the longest song.  Now, I still love the song for its imagery and repetition, not to mention the interesting history and symbolism; however, I think it may be time for an update!  In my version, each day would bring a delightful new treat.  Because, really, who wants ten lords a leapin’ in a tiny apartment?  Plus, the original would be an expensive Christmas list!  My list would be unforgettable (although maybe not as well rhymed as the original), colorful, sweet and guaranteed to find something for everyone!

So here it is: The 12 Days of Christmas food list, Laura Crum style!

On the 12^th day of Christmas, my true love gave fed to me:

12 Drummers Drumming Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies,

11 Pipers Piping Peppermint Bark Pieces,

10 Lords A-leaping Cherry Coconut Bars,

9 Ladies Dancing Lady Fingers,

8 Maids A-Milking oz of Eggnog,

7 Swans A-Swimming Scoops of Sorbet,

6 Geese A-Laying Bites of Mousse,

5 Golden Rings Cups of Fruit Salad,

4 Calling Birds Peppermint Pattis,

3 French Hens Vanilla Bean Martinis,

2 Turtle Doves Turtle Candies

And a Partridge in a Pear Tree Vanilla Roasted Pear for Dessert!

Overall, I like my list.  There are some of the more traditional flavors of the holidays in the eggnog and peppermint patties, one of my old favorites with the chocolate mousse, and a couple of recipes I can’t wait try like the cherry bars and vanilla roasted pear!  Of course, there is an adult slant to my list, with the Eggnog and the Vanilla Bean Martini!  Some of these desserts are good for those with a gluten intolerance (like the eggnog, peppermint bark, turtle candy, mousse or fruit salad) and even a few that can be easily modified for any diabetics (like the sorbet or the vanilla roasted pear)!  After all, everyone should be able to enjoy the holidays, even with a dietary restriction or two!

What would be on your Christmas food countdown?

Thanks to IrishTypepad for the picture of the Christmas music!  All other pictures from Rodelle Vanilla!

Happy Countdown!

Laura