Have some fun in the kitchen and make a holiday cookie tree with some of your favorite cookies; Icing holds the cookies in place as they are “glued” together in  layers. This makes for not only fun eating but great conversation as well and can become a holiday tradition. Ready make cookies can be used too if you have no time to bake several different kinds.

1/2 cup olive oil

3/4 cup sugar

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup coarsely chopped dark or milk chocolate

1 cup chopped walnuts

Preheat the oven to 325F.

Parchment paper lined baking sheet

Whisk the olive oil or butter in a large bowl with the eggs until light and fluffy. Whisk in the vanilla.  Mix in the flour, baking powder and salt. Mix well. Stir in the chocolate and walnuts.

Divide the dough in half and on a lightly floured board, roll each half under the palm of your hands into a log about 10 inches long and 1-inch wide. Transfer the log to the parchment lined baking sheet and pat it down slightly with your hands so the log is even. Bake the logs for 25 minutes or until they are firm to the touch and lightly browned. Carefully transfer them to a cutting board and allow them to cool about 5 minutes. Use a sharp knife and cut 1/2-inch wide diagonal slices from each. Return the slices to the baking sheet and bake an additional 5 minutes or until they are dry and nicely browned.

Transfer the biscotti to cooling racks. Store airtight or freeze. Makes about 2-1/2 dozen

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