This Iowa Baker Has Claimed Dozens of Blue Ribbons at the State Fair—Now She’s Revealing Her Secrets.

Celebrating Family Traditions: A Journey Through Baking at the Iowa State Fair

Alisa Woods’ Sweet Legacy
Just past the bustling corn dog stand, amidst vibrant carnival games and art displays, Alisa Woods finds her joy at the Elwell Family Food Center during the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, Iowa. After hours of experimentation and finesse, her Mint Chocolate Cookie is ready for the fair’s “Best Snack Cookie” category, and the thrill of winning a blue ribbon is palpable. Alisa’s only wish is that her blue-ribbon-winning grandma could join her in celebrating this family triumph.

🍪 Alisa Woods’ Mint Chocolate Cookie Recipe 🍪

Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|———————–|—————–|
| Butter | 1 cup (softened)|
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 tsp |
| All-Purpose Flour | 3 cups |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Cocoa Powder | 1 cup |
| Mint Chocolate Chips | 2 cups |

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Mixing the Base: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, salt, cocoa powder, and mint chocolate chips.

5. Form Cookies: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.

6. Baking: Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes.

7. Cool Down: Let cookies cool on sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Enjoy!: Share with family and friends and wait for the praise to roll in—just like Alisa’s blue ribbons!

🌟 Baking Journey and Tips from Alisa Woods 🌟

Alisa’s passion for baking was cultivated in her grandmother’s kitchen, where test batches were always available to snack on. This legacy drives her to honor her family’s baking prowess.

• Blue-Ribbon Advice: Always attend the judging to learn what improves your baking.
• Master Your Classics: Stick to familiar recipes that your family loves.
• Temperature Matters: Keep butter cold for the best texture in scones and pies.
• Layer Cake Tricks: Freeze cakes before frosting for an easier application.

With a booming business in custom orders and classes, plus a daughter following in her footsteps, Alisa is ensuring that the family tradition continues at the Iowa State Fair.

🥇 Join the Baking Fun!

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, remember that practice makes perfect. Capture the spirit of competition and honor your family legacy with every batch!