easy, DELICIOUS cookie recipes

I think the fact that my tummy hasn't stopped growling for the past hour, is what inspired this post. lol.

one easy way to save some money on gifts for teachers, co-workers, (even family members you don't like very much) is to make homemade gifts like baskets with cookies, candles, etc.

here are two of my favorite recipes that my great-grandma and mommy used to make me every holiday.

SKILLET COOKIES

These are always a favorite at parties, and so easy. Kids love them!
Ingredients:
1 cup chopped dates (I used 10 ounces)
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons butter
1 egg, well beaten
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 cup rice krispies
3/4 cup pecans
1 cup flaked coconut
Preparation:
Mix dates, sugar, butter and egg in heavy skillet. Melt over low heat; cook for about 5 minutes on low heat, until bubbly. Remove from heat; add vanilla, rice cereal and pecans. When cool enough to handle, roll into small balls and roll in coconut.


MOCHA NUT BUTTER BALLS


Ingredients
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon instant coffee granules
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups finely chopped pecans
1 cup confectioners' sugar for rolling

Directions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Stir together the flour, cocoa, coffee crystals and salt; set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar and vanilla until light and fluffy. Mix in the dry ingredients just until blended. Stir in the pecans. Roll dough into 1 inch balls and place them 2 inches apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, until the bottoms are lightly browned. Remove from cookie sheets and roll in confectioners' sugar while still warm. Store in a tightly covered container at room temperature.