White Chocolate Cherry Chunkies

What a long weekend this was!!! All it did was snow, snow and then it snowed some more. I just have a "feeling" this is going to be a very long winter. I certainly hope I'm wrong though! The schools here are now closed till after the new year. They are just not able to get all the parking lots and roads cleared enough for it to be safe for the schools to open. Of course, my son is absolutely thrilled. I remember going through this with my older boys when they would be glued to the TV for a school closing announcement and how excited they'd get when they found out school was closed. My youngest is beside himself since he is getting 3 extra days off!!!

Here is a great cookie that I made that is definitely a winner any time of year but especially pretty on a Christmas cookie tray. Of course, it's from Paula Deen, and our girl comes though again! I have yet to make anything of hers that has not turned out great. I have learned to trust Paula. Remember to bake these only till slightly golden brown around the edges so they come out very chewy. These cookies will not disappoint!!!

1 stick butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
1/2 cup candied cherries
1 1/2 cups white chocolate chunks (I used white chocolate chips)

Preheat over to 375 degrees F.

In a medium bowl, with electric mixer, cream butter and sugars together until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla and beat until just combined. Set aside.

Sift together flour, soda and salt. Add milk to the butter mixture and then add the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Batter should be stiff.

In another bowl, combine nuts, cherries and white chocolate. Then add to batter, stirring only to blend. Drop heaping tablespoons onto a greased cookie sheet, 2 inches apart. Bake for approximately 11 to 13 inches. Cool on wire rack.

Makes approximately 4 dozen.