Holiday Cut-Out Shape Cookie Recipe (Perfect for Hippos, Too)
Every year, my son and I pull out the flour, sugar, and spices, ready to roll up our sleeves for the ultimate holiday treat: soft, chewy gingerbread cookies. But in our house, there’s a twist. Forget those perfectly symmetrical gingerbread men; we’re making gingerbread hippopotamuses. 🦛
Why hippos, you ask? Because we want a hippopotamus for Christmas, of course! It’s a tradition that started on a whim but has stuck around, making our holidays that much sillier and sweeter.
These cookies are soft enough to bite into without breaking a tooth (important for hippos and humans), perfectly spiced, and incredibly fun to decorate. Whether you make gingerbread men, reindeer, or yes, even hippos, this holiday cookie recipe will be a new family favorite.
Soft Gingerbread Cookies
Serving Size:
36 (3 dozen)
Time:
6-7 minutes
Difficulty:
Easy
Ingredients
1 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup molasses
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp cinnamon
1 tbsp ginger
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp ground clove
2 large eggs
1 tsp baking soda
5 cups all-purpose flour
Directions
Cream together butter and sugar. Add salt, vanilla, spices, and molasses and mix well. Add eggs, one at a time, and beat until smooth.
Sift together baking soda and flour and mix into mixture.
Separate into two balls and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate overnight.
Roll out to 1/4 thickness. Cut out shapes or roll into a log and slice in circles.
Bake at 400°F for 6-7 min.
Cool, then decorate with your favorite frosting. Ours is a vanilla cream-cheese icing that I dye in a bunch of holiday colors. Then, it’s time to get a little artsy.
Every year, as the smell of gingerbread fills the house, I get to watch my son’s creativity run wild. Some hippos wear bow ties, others have festive scarves, and one year we even had a hippo superhero. It’s messy. It’s joyful. And it’s become a tradition we both cherish.
So, if you happen to hear the song “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” while you bake your soft gingerbread cookies, just know you’re in good company. We’ll be over here, giggling and making hippos out of cookie dough.
A Free Knitting Pattern by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, Friends! Today, I was trying to spruce up the cabin for our Christmas festivities, when I noticed that this grumpy llama needed some handmade holiday joy. So I decided to whip up a quick Santa hat to cheer him up. While I was at it, I wrote down the Christmas knitting pattern to share with you here as a little gift. I think this mini Santa hat ornament will add cozy magic to any tree, garland, wreath, or gift box. Or use a mini-holiday hat to make your everyday home decor just a bit more festive, like I did with our grinchy llama. 🦙
Making this Mini Santa Hat Ornament Free Knitting Pattern
Materials
Knitting Needles:
Double Point Needles (DPNs)
7-inch (18 cm) long US No. 5 (3.75 mm) DPNs (or three sizes smaller than needles used to obtain gauge)
7-inch (18 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) DPNs (or size needed to obtain gauge)
Or Long Circular Needles
36-inch (91 cm) long US No. 8 (5.0 mm) circular needle (or size needed to obtain gauge)
36-inch (91 cm) long US No. 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle (or three sizes smaller than needles used to obtain gauge)
Yarn:
One 315-yard (6 ounce) skein each of worsted weight yarn* in your choice of colors. (Shown in Caron Simply Soft Yarn in “White” [Color 1] and “Red” [Color 2]).
Ornament size uses about 15.75 yards (0.3 oz.) of Color 1 (including 1-inch pom-pom) and 15.75 yards (0.3 oz.) of Color 2
*Weights estimated with Caron Simply Soft yarn; other yarn weights may vary. Weight does not include gauge swatch. A 4×4 inch gauge swatch with a 2 row by 3 stitch border uses an additional 21 yards (0.4 oz.).
Other Tools:
One stitch marker, a measuring tape, and a darning needle.
Gauge
18 stitches x 24 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on No. 8 (5.0 mm) needles.
Abbreviations
k = knit
p = purl
** = repeat the pattern between the asterisks
k2tog = knit two together
Instructions: Mini Santa Hat Ornament
(3.5 inches (8.89 cm) by 5 inches (12.7 cm) tall, without pom-pom)
Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round.For Double Point Needles, follow DPNinstructions written in italics. For circular needles, follow Magic Loop instructions in bold. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.
[Using No. 5 DPNs or long circular needles] [With Color 1/White] Row 1: Cast on 32 stitches. Divide onto 3 DPNs (12 on 1st, 8 on 2nd, and 12 on 3rd DPN). Or separate stitches on long circular needles for Magic Loop (16 on each side). (32 stitches)
Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and *k, p* x 16. (32 stitches)
Rows 3 – 5: *k, p* x 16. (32 stitches)
[Switch to No. 8 DPNs or longcircular needles] [With Color 2/Red] Rows 6 – 18: k 56. (56 stitches) {Work should measure 6 inches at this point.}
Cut yarn, leaving an 8-inch tail. With darning needle, draw yarn tightly through remaining 8 stitches. Weave in ends. Block if desired.
Attach a tiny (about 1 inch [2.54 cm] in diameter) white pom-pom to the closed end of the hat.
Optional Mitten Holiday Ornament Hanger
Choose a pretty ribbon and tie it in a loop with a bow to the cuff of the mitten. Alternatively, using the same yarn or a contrasting color, you can use a size F/3.75 MM crochet hook to chain a 6-inch cord by following these instructions:
Ensuring you leave a 4-inch tail before your slip knot, chain 35. Cut yarn and pull through, leaving a 4-inch tail. Pull one end of the chain through an open knitted loop on your Ornament Sized Santa Hat. Tie a bow using the two loose yarn tails of the chain.
Print the Mitten Holiday Ornament Free Knitting Pattern
This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.
If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.
See purlsandpixels.com for more great patterns or to order this item handmade by me. I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.
Beginner’s Guide to Knitting: Learn Essential Stitches & Projects Step by Step
Hi there! I’m Liz Chandler, and yes, I still have my first wonky dishcloth. It’s a little uneven, but it’s a badge of honor. We all start somewhere, and that’s exactly what this guide is all about. Whether you’re picking up needles for the first time or looking for beginner-friendly projects, I’ve got you covered. 🧶
Every expert knitter was once a beginner, myself included! That’s why I created this tracker to help you build confidence with every stitch. It’s packed with 30+ essential techniques broken into manageable steps, so you’ll always know what to learn next. And don’t forget, this sheet aligns with my free online knitting lessons and premium textbook knitting lessons, so you can learn the skills you need in the way you prefer.
Let’s start with the basics. These are the tools I recommend for every beginner knitter. You don’t need fancy gadgets to get going, just a few essentials (check out my complete knitter’s must-haves guide for more details):
Size 8 (5mm) straight needles
Light-colored worsted weight yarn (trust me, this makes everything easier to see)
Scissors
Tapestry needle
Stitch markers
🌟 Pro Tip: Light-colored yarn isn’t just beginner-friendly—it’s mistake-friendly. Spotting errors is so much easier when your yarn isn’t a deep, moody navy blue.
Basic Knitting Techniques for Beginners
Let’s talk about Continental knitting, my absolute favorite way to get those needles dancing! Unlike English-style knitting (where you throw the yarn), Continental style is all about efficiency and flow – think of it as the ‘work smarter, not harder’ approach to creating cozy goodness. You hold the yarn in your left hand (yes, lefties, this one’s a gift for you!), and instead of throwing the yarn, you’re basically picking it with your right needle. It’s like a beautiful little choreographed dance that, once you get the hang of it, makes your knitting practically fly off the needles!
I’ve found that my students who switch to Continental style often see their knitting speed double, and who doesn’t want to finish that chunky sweater before the next ice age? Plus, if you’re coming from a crochet background, Continental style will feel surprisingly natural since you’re holding the yarn the same way. Trust me, once you go Continental, you’ll wonder how you ever knitted any other way!
🌟 Starting with my Face Scrubby (your future spa buddy!), you’ll get those basic stitches under your belt without the pressure. Once you’ve mastered the basics, my Beginner Scarf helps you find your rhythm – think of it as your knitting meditation. The Seed Stitch Washcloth introduces you to the purl stitch, and before you know it, you’ll be ready for my Cozy Headband where circular needles become your new best friend. Next, learn to Decrease (shrink the length of your rows) to round out the top of a beanie hat. Still feeling adventurous? My Fingerless Gloves teach you the art of increases, and finally, my Classic Mittens let you show off everything you’ve learned.
💞 Each pattern builds on the last, adding just one new technique at a time. It’s like stacking cozy building blocks. The best part? You’ll never feel overwhelmed because you’re already familiar with 90% of each new pattern.
It’s time to tackle hats! Now, you’ll learn to make decreases to round off the top of a hat. They’re surprisingly quick and satisfying once you get the hang of it!
Making gloves introduces you to knitted increases, which is a fancy way of saying adding stitches to a row. Plus, these mitts make great gifts and are a fun way to build precision and dexterity.
You’ve made it to the final round of beginner knitting!
Skills You’ll Master:
Thumb gussets
Advanced shaping
What You’ll Need:
Size 8 (5mm) circular needles
Soft Acrylic or wool worsted weight yarn
Stitch markers
Complete Knitting Guide Resources
💻 Online Lessons: You can find all my free online knitting lessons indexed on my Learn to Knit page! Start at the top and work your way down the list to begin making your own beautiful knits.
You can knit all the washcloths with US No. 7 (4.5 mm) needles. I like 36 inch long circular needles, because you can use them for all sorts of projects in the future.
Dishcloths and Washcloths Designed by Liz Chandler
From simple basics to intricate color designs, my hand-knit washcloth and dishcloth patterns have something for every knitter! These practical, eco-friendly creations are the unsung heroes of a cozy, functional home; they’re perfect for showcasing your knitting skills while adding a handmade touch to your space. Whether you’re just picking up your needles or ready to tackle a creative challenge, my washcloth and dishcloth collection at PurlsAndPixels has you covered. Explore these beginner-friendly and advanced designs to create something both cute and useful! 🧶✨
How to Knit a Washcloth
Shop All Washcloth & Dishcloth Knitting Patterns Designed by Liz Chandler
Add a touch of love to your skincare routine with this heart-shaped face scrubby. It’s a charming addition to any bathroom and makes for a thoughtful handmade gift.
This beginner-friendly pattern introduces the seed stitch, resulting in a textured, absorbent, and exfoliating washcloth. Crafted with 100% cotton yarn, it’s perfect for personal use or as a thoughtful gift.
This pattern features a simple ribbed design, making it a quick and satisfying project for knitters of all levels. The ribbing adds extra absorbency and durability.
This pattern introduces a two-tone ribbed design, adding a pop of color and texture to your dishcloth collection. It’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Featuring a stylish double-stripe ribbed design, this pattern offers instructions for three sizes: face scrubby, washcloth, and hand towel. It’s a wonderful project to add a touch of elegance to your kitchen or bathroom.
Offering a classic striped design, this collection provides patterns for various sizes, allowing you to create a cohesive set of washcloths and face scrubbies.
Double up the yarn and knit a thicker, more durable washcloth in half the time! By holding two strands of yarn together as you work, you’ll create a plush, absorbent fabric that’s perfect for scrubbing dishes or pampering your skin.
Yarn Selection: Opt for 100% cotton yarn for its absorbency and durability.
Gauge Check: Ensure your gauge matches the pattern to achieve the desired size and texture.
Finishing Touches:Block your finished pieces to enhance their shape and appearance.
Knitting dishcloths and washcloths is an excellent way to practice your stitchwork, cozy up your home, and make presents. Try these patterns from PurlsAndPixels to craft beautiful, handmade additions for your kitchen and bath or to gift to loved ones.
If you’re looking for unique, handmade gifts this season, you’re in the right place! At PurlsAndPixels, I love sharing simple, heartfelt craft ideas that make perfect presents for loved ones. From knitting and crochet patterns to creative DIY projects, here are ten thoughtful gift ideas you can make yourself.
1. Tiny Knit Mitten Ornaments
These adorable miniature mittens are quick to knit and make great gifts for friends and family. Use them as tree ornaments, garlands, or package toppers. They’re perfect for using up scrap yarn! ➡️ Find the pattern here
2. Learn-to-Knit Gift Set
Give the gift of a new hobby! Create a beginner-friendly knitting kit with yarn, needles, and a link to our Knitting Guide. Personalize it by including a handmade scarf or dishcloth to inspire their first project. ➡️ Learn how to make the set here
3. Peppermint Twist Crochet Garland
A festive garland adds a handmade touch to any home. This candy-cane-inspired crochet project is beginner-friendly and works up quickly. Package it as a gift or use it to decorate your home. ➡️ Get the crochet tutorial here
4. Cherry Candy Cane Potholder
This oversized potholder is as festive as it is functional. Pair it with a set of kitchen towels or baking supplies for a thoughtful hostess gift. ➡️ Grab the knitting pattern here
5. DIY Washcloths or Dishcloths
Knit or crochet a set of reusable washcloths or dishcloths. Pair them with handmade soap or spa items for a luxurious self-care gift. ➡️ Check out my dishcloth patterns here
6. Santa Hat and Gloves
Make matching Santa hats and gloves for the whole family. These cozy accessories are perfect for holiday photos and make a sweet, personal gift. ➡️ Find the pattern here
7. Homemade Cookie Shipping Tips
Want to send homemade cookies as gifts? Use my shipping tips to ensure your baked goods arrive fresh and intact. Package them with a handwritten note for a personal touch. ➡️ Read the shipping tips here
8. Customizable Gift Tags from Santa
Add a magical touch to your presents with these printable, editable gift tags from Santa’s workshop. Personalize them with your recipient’s name for an extra-special detail. ➡️ Download the gift tags here
9. DIY Knitting Patterns Bundle
Create a customized pattern bundle by printing or packaging several beginner-friendly patterns from PurlsAndPixels. Pair them with yarn and needles to inspire creativity. ➡️ Explore knitting patterns here
10. Hand Knit Accessories for Chilly Days
Nothing says thoughtful like a hand knitted gift. Knit them a hat, scarf, gloves, or even a set of all three. You’ll be their handmade hero. ➡️ Find accessories you can hand knit here
Why these DIY Gift Ideas Are Perfect for the Holidays
Handmade gifts show that you’ve put time, effort, and love into creating something unique. Share your craftiness with all of your loved ones this year.
I’d love to see your DIY gifts! Share your projects with me on Instagram using #PurlsAndPixels, and let’s inspire each other to make this holiday season extra special.
Thanksgiving has come and gone, and I wanted to tell you about my new pie recipe that I tried out for the holiday. This chocolate pie was fun to make and delicious to eat! Definitely a hit with my picky child who won’t dare to taste a fruit or pumpkin pie. That speaks volumes about the taste of this decadent dessert pie.
This indulgent chocolate pie combines a silky, rich filling with a homemade chocolate crust, offering a double dose of chocolate delight. Perfect for special occasions or as a make-ahead dessert, this pie is sure to impress.
And my favorite part? It can be frozen! We did a camping Thanksgiving event this year. I froze this pie and kept it in one of the camper’s freezers until the evening before. Thawing it in the fridge made for the perfect temperature when it was time to serve it up!
Double Chocolate Delight: The combination of a chocolate crust and rich filling offers a luxurious dessert experience.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for busy schedules, this pie can be prepared in advance and frozen until needed. Just thaw in the fridge.
Versatile Presentation: Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or as a decadent treat to satisfy those chocolate cravings.
Let’s get baking!
Decadent Chocolate Pie with Homemade Chocolate Crust
Serving Size:
Serves 6 – 8 people
Time:
3 hours
Difficulty:
Intermediate to Advanced
For the Chocolate Crust:
2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into 1/4-inch slices 6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the Chocolate Filling: 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar 1/4 cup cornstarch 1/4 teaspoon salt 3 cups whole milk 4 large egg yolks 6 ounces (one cup) semi-sweet chocolate chips 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Prepare the Chocolate Crust In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, salt, and brown sugar until well combined. Add the cold butter slices to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or fork, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, 2 tablespoons at a time, mixing gently until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overmixing. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap, shape it into a round disk, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess. Refrigerate the crust while preparing the filling.
Make the Chocolate Filling In a medium saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble; about 10 to 15 minutes. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Slowly add about 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them. Pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens further, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Continue to stir until bubbling stops to prevent the bottom burning. Add the chocolate chips, butter, and vanilla extract to the hot mixture, stirring until the chocolate and butter are fully melted and the filling is smooth.
Assemble and Bake the Pie Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the warm chocolate filling into the prepared chocolate crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake the pie in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 15 minutes, then lower the heat to 350°F (176.67°C). Continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is set and the filling is slightly puffed. Turn the oven off, crack the door about an inch, and leave the pie in the oven. Allow it to cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
Serve and Enjoy Before serving, top the pie with freshly whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired. It’s also very tasty without toppings. Slice and serve chilled.
Tips for Freezing and Thawing a Decadent Chocolate Pie with Homemade Chocolate Crust
Freezing: Once the pie has fully set in the refrigerator, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 weeks. Thawing: Transfer the pie to the refrigerator 24 hours before serving to thaw gradually. Avoid thawing at room temperature to maintain the best texture.
Let’s talk about the ultimate homesteading accessory. Nope, it’s not a chicken coop or a shiny new canner (although those are fabulous). It’s a pair of knitting needles! Yes, knitting is the unsung hero of homestead hobbies, and if you’re not already in on this cozy little secret, it’s time to grab some yarn and get started.
Why Knitting and Homesteading Go Hand-in-Hand
Picture this: a crackling fire, a cup of tea in your favorite mug, and you sitting in your comfiest chair knitting a cozy scarf while the bread rises in the oven. Can you feel the warmth and satisfaction already? Knitting fits seamlessly into the homesteading lifestyle because it’s about creating something with your own two hands—just like gardening, baking, or DIY projects.
Plus, knitted items are practical. Socks, sweaters, hats—they’re not just cozy; they’re necessities when you’re braving frosty mornings to feed the chickens or chop wood.
The Patterns You Need Right Now
If you’re ready to dive in, I’ve got you covered with beginner-friendly knitting patterns that are as practical as they are pretty. Start with my Easy Peasy Washcloth Pattern, perfect for scrubbing those farmhouse sinks, or try the Warm and Toasty Hat Pattern, which will keep you snug through snowy winters. And for the advanced knitters out there, my Rustic Rice Stitch Blanket Pattern is a must for curling up on the couch after a long day.
You can find these free patterns and more in my Knitting Patterns Page (go ahead, click—I promise it’s worth it).
Knitting isn’t just about the finished product; it’s about the process. It’s a slow, meditative craft that pairs perfectly with the pace of homesteading life. Need a moment to unwind after wrangling the goats? Pick up your needles. Want to make something special for a loved one? Knit them a hat.
Knitting also has a way of bringing people together. Host a knitting circle in your cozy kitchen, or teach your kids to make their own winter hats. You’ll be passing on a skill that’s equal parts practical and heartwarming.
More Cozy Homestead Inspiration
If you love the idea of adding some rustic charm to your home, be sure to check out my Homesteading Lifestyle Articles for tips on everything from gardening to DIY home décor. Whether you’re a full-fledged homesteader or just dabbling, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to make your home a cozy haven.
Let’s Get Knitting!
So, what are you waiting for? Dust off those needles, grab a skein of yarn, and let’s create something beautiful. Don’t forget to explore my knitting patterns and homesteading articles. I’ve got everything you need to turn your dreams of cozy, handmade living into a reality.
If you’re in the mood to add some cozy, handmade touches to your living space, these knitting patterns make for quick knitting projects. These easy and free craft ideas from Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels.com are perfect for a relaxing weekend. Each project is quick, simple, and brings warmth and charm to your home decor. Let’s get started!
5 Easy Home Decor Knitting Projects
1. Basic Pillow Cover
Add instant coziness to your couch or bed with this simple pillow cover pattern. It’s beginner-friendly and customizable to match any color scheme.
Knit up a luxurious washcloth that’s both practical and stylish. This quick knitting project is a quick way to bring texture and a handmade vibe to your bathroom or kitchen.
Get festive and functional with this colorful pot holder. It’s a practical addition to your kitchen and doubles as cheerful knitted home decor during the holidays.
This heart-shaped face scrubby is a quick knit that adds a personal, charming touch to your skincare routine. It’s also an excellent way to use up leftover yarn.
With these quick and easy projects, your weekend will be full of creativity and cozy vibes. Knitting home decor is both a fun hobby and adds that unique touch to your home. Which project will you try first? Let me know in the comments! Happy knitting!
Need supplies for your quick knitting project?
Find the yarn and knitting needles you will need for all of these projects on my Amazon Influencer Affiliate Collection page.
