Holidays are here (again)!

Its been an intense few weeks... and it doesn't help to have a million+ things to do for the holidays. I have yet to do ANY shopping, and there isn't even any time to plan my own party!
I did get a breather this weekend though... and was able to do some baking for a friend's party.

Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting - the usual recipe, just shaped different.

8in round base, with 6 tree shapes. (Recipe yielded a total of 12 trees)

Spicy Country Crackers/ or Flatbread (as it was called that night)

Yep. Busted out the Craigslist appropriated pasta machine.

Chili Oil.

Roll out dough until it is thin enough to see through. (reminds me of latex gloves) Then brush with the Chili Oil.

Before/After: Seasoned with Salt and Pepper, Sprinkled with Thyme and Parmesan

Break into shards and share!

For the dough: (sooo easy!) You just need either a)the willingness to roll it super super thin by hand, or b) have a pasta machine.

3C AP Flour
1t Kosher Salt
1C + 2T Cold Water

Mix together in a bowl so it combines, then turn out onto lightly floured surface to knead a few times to form into a ball. (Will be somewhat crumbly- don't be afraid.)
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then put into fridge for at least 30 min.

Chili Oil:
1/4C EVOO
2t Crushed Dried Chilis
Warm oil in pot.  Take off hear and add the chilies and allow to steep for 1 hour.

Toppings: (actual amounts can be up to you)
2oz grated parmesan or hard pecorino
1/4C Thyme leaves, chopped
coarsely ground black pepper to taste
kosher salt to taste

This is a totally versatile recipe... you can sprinkle whatever herbs and spices you want. Too bad I'm not very creative in that department, so I just follow recipes as I see them. :)

Bake at 350 until browned and crispy, about 15 min.