Episode 20 – Papa Vern Cookies

It’s that time of the year once again. You know, that time when everyone is inviting you to some kind of holiday get-together. Today I was hit with the timeless classic – the neighborhood holiday block party. Considering one neighbor thought I was married for the last two years and then worried I got a divorce and another apparently thinks my name is Ryan, I decided it was time to get to know them a little better.

That being said, you can’t show up empty handed to a gathering. Sure, I could bring a bottle of wine and take the easy way out but where is the fun in that? Instead, it’s time to turn to two timeless cookie recipes. The first is known in my family as Papa Vern Cookies. The recipe has many variations and names but that is what we learned to call them over the years after learning about the recipe from a family member – Vern himself.

The second recipe was a fan submission. Erin was nice enough to send me her recipe of choice for Oreo Fudge Bars. Sounding equally as convenient as Papa Vern Cookies I thought I would give that one a whirl as well. Why not set a good example with the neighbors by bringing two varieties of sweet delights? I know I would be pleased.

I will be splitting the recipes up over the next two days. First up, Papa Vern Cookies.

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 6 cups Rice Krispies
• 1 cup butter scotch chips
• 1 cup semi-sweet chips

Directions

Mix sugar and corn syrup in large saucepan.

Stir with wooden spoon until bubbles start to form on surface. At that point immediately remove from heat and add in peanut butter.

Pour Rice Krispies in and mix before mixture starts to harden.

Pour into greased 9 x 13 pan and spread out evenly.

While mixture in pan cools, take both types of chips and melt together over double boiler until fully melted. Be sure to stir regularly.

Pour over top of Rice Krispies with spatula. Wait for everything to harden. You can place in fridge to speed up the hardening process.

And now, a submission from a good friend. Itz Santa!