December's featured ingredients: Dried Fruit and Nuts

Why Organic?

Choosing organic dried fruit is always a good idea; in addition to having been raised with synthetic chemicals and fertilizers, most conventional dried fruits have been fumigated with chemical preservatives as well. Choosing organic helps minimize your exposure to these chemicals. Organic produce is raised with methods that protect the environment, and we think it tastes better, too!

• Almond Biscotti with Cherries and Apricots
• Better Christmas Fruit Cake
• Chunky Fruit and Nut Bark
• Cranberry Pistachio Bars
• Dried Cranberry and Pecan Tart
• Florentines
• Italian Panforte
• Pecan-Date Meringue Cookies
• Pine Nut Tart
• Victorian Sugarplums
• Walnut Fudge
• More Delicious Holiday Recipes

Tis the season to be jolly — and there’s no better way to savor the holidays (or indeed, any special occasion) than through cooking and sharing.

We’ve come up with a selection of temptations designed to satisfy the most discerning sweet tooth. All these recipes showcase high-quality dried fruits and nuts, which are readily available in most markets across America. (Earthbound Farm organic dried fruits are available online, too!)

We’ve given a new twist to traditional favorites like fruitcake — our version is moist and full of healthy dried fruits (no candied fruit in sight). We’ve looked to Europe for inspiration as well, notably Italy, for biscotti, panforte, pine nut tart, and Florentine cookies. Apricots, cranberries, cherries, raisins, dates, pineapple, figs, walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, and pistachios play a prominent role in our confections, most of which can be made ahead of time. Nothing epitomizes the spirit of the season better than a gift made by hand, and any of our sweet indulgences would be a welcome holiday treat.

Holidays can be hectic, but these easy-to-make temptations will reward your efforts and gladden the hearts of friends and family. All of us here at Earthbound Farm wish you a happy and healthy holiday season!