A bunch of elderberries are surrounded by white flowers
September 2, 2024
Summer’s wrapping up, and while we might be doing a happy dance as the kids head back to school, we all know what’s lurking around the corner—the dreaded back-to-school cold. But don’t worry, I’ve got a little secret that’s been a game-changer for my family: elderberry syrup. Why I Swear by Elderberries * These tiny, dark berries are like nature’s multivitamins. They’re packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help boost your immune system, making them a perfect defense against colds and the flu. And if you’re already starting to feel that scratchy throat or stuffy nose, elderberry syrup can help lessen the symptoms. It’s like having a natural, sweet-tasting remedy that actually works. Where to Find Elderberries If you’re lucky enough to live in the countryside, you might just find elderberry bushes on a walk or drive. They love soaking up the sun, so check along roadsides or open fields. There’s something satisfying about picking your own berries, knowing you’re gathering the good stuff straight from nature. But if foraging isn’t in the cards (or you’re just not up for it), don’t worry! You can easily order organic elderberries online and have them delivered right to your door. It’s like having a little piece of nature shipped directly to you. Harvesting Elderberries: My Favorite Part Some varieties of elderberries can be toxic when eaten raw – the best way to avoid this is to make sure you always cook your elderberries well first When you find a bush full of those gorgeous, deep purple berries, it’s a bit like discovering a hidden treasure. I always bring along a pair of scissors and a bucket or bag to collect them. Snip the clusters, let them fall into your container, and you’re set. Back at home, give the berries a good rinse to wash away any dirt or bugs, and let them dry on a towel. Here’s a trick I love: freeze the berries overnight in a bag. The next day, give the bag a shake, and the berries will pop right off the stems. It’s oddly satisfying and a great way to relieve some stress!
Perfectly Simple Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Classic Recipe for Every Home
Dawn's Simple Life

Deliciously soft, chewy, and made with love—your go-to recipe for the perfect homemade treat.

Our Go-To School Snack: Chocolate Chip Cookies


In our house, chocolate chip cookies are the go-to for quick, simple, and delicious school snacks. A few years ago, I invested in a cookie dough scoop, and let me tell you, it’s been a total game-changer! It makes the process so much easier—just scoop, squeeze, and you’ve got perfectly portioned cookies every single time. Bonus: it’s also perfect for cupcakes, as the large scoop is just the right size for filling cupcake liners!


How to Store Your Cookies:

  • At Room Temperature: Once cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for 3-5 days.
  • Freeze the Cookies: Want to make them last even longer? Store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature.
  • Freeze the Dough: If you’d rather bake fresh cookies later, you can freeze the dough! After scooping the dough onto a baking sheet, flash freeze them until solid, then transfer the dough balls into an airtight container. When you're ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a cookie sheet, let them thaw, and bake according to the recipe.


Recipe Details:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 9 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 36 cookies
  • Calories per cookie: 183



Equipment


measuring spoons

measuring cups

KitchenAid Mixer

spatula

3 baking sheet

Parchment Paper

*** Cookie Dough Scoop ***


Ingredients


Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line 3 baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt, then set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and both sugars until well combined.
  4. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until smooth and mixed thoroughly.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
  7. Using your cookie dough scoop, drop evenly spaced balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 9 minutes, or until the cookies turn a perfect golden brown.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets before transferring them to a cooling rack.


Enjoy these simple, no-fuss cookies that are perfect for snack time, lunchboxes, or just a cozy treat at home!


Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 183kcal |

Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g |

Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 27mg |

Sodium: 153mg | Potassium: 31mg | Fiber: 1g

| Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 1971U | Vitamin C:

1mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg



More Dawn's Simple Life inspirations

A bunch of elderberries are surrounded by white flowers
September 2, 2024
Summer’s wrapping up, and while we might be doing a happy dance as the kids head back to school, we all know what’s lurking around the corner—the dreaded back-to-school cold. But don’t worry, I’ve got a little secret that’s been a game-changer for my family: elderberry syrup. Why I Swear by Elderberries * These tiny, dark berries are like nature’s multivitamins. They’re packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help boost your immune system, making them a perfect defense against colds and the flu. And if you’re already starting to feel that scratchy throat or stuffy nose, elderberry syrup can help lessen the symptoms. It’s like having a natural, sweet-tasting remedy that actually works. Where to Find Elderberries If you’re lucky enough to live in the countryside, you might just find elderberry bushes on a walk or drive. They love soaking up the sun, so check along roadsides or open fields. There’s something satisfying about picking your own berries, knowing you’re gathering the good stuff straight from nature. But if foraging isn’t in the cards (or you’re just not up for it), don’t worry! You can easily order organic elderberries online and have them delivered right to your door. It’s like having a little piece of nature shipped directly to you. Harvesting Elderberries: My Favorite Part Some varieties of elderberries can be toxic when eaten raw – the best way to avoid this is to make sure you always cook your elderberries well first When you find a bush full of those gorgeous, deep purple berries, it’s a bit like discovering a hidden treasure. I always bring along a pair of scissors and a bucket or bag to collect them. Snip the clusters, let them fall into your container, and you’re set. Back at home, give the berries a good rinse to wash away any dirt or bugs, and let them dry on a towel. Here’s a trick I love: freeze the berries overnight in a bag. The next day, give the bag a shake, and the berries will pop right off the stems. It’s oddly satisfying and a great way to relieve some stress!

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