by Marianne Christy
Barb Getty is an energetic and enthusiastic lady who’s pretty nutty about her family, the great outdoors, physical activities, books, cooking and baking.
Currently she is excited to be invited to judge the Old Forge Library’s annual Sweetheart Dessert Contest on Tuesday, February 9, along with Dave Berkstresser and myself.
It’s something she said she has always wanted to do.
As a second-time judge, I totally get it. There are not too many events that you have the opportunity to sample a variety of sweet treats and share them with the public at a post-judging reception all in the name of such a wonderful treasure as the library.
Librarian Izzie Worthen mentioned at a recent photo op that, for whatever reason, entries were a little down last year.
Not wanting to disappoint the hostess, we the judges have vowed to stimulate as much excitement as possible and attract a record number of entries in all categories: Youth Student, Teen Student, Adult and Master.
Sounds self-serving, doesn’t it?
But seriously, it is ALL about the library…and a little about not disappointing Barb on her first-time effort.
So dust off those pans you shoved aside after the holidays and fire up those EZ Bake Ovens, kids!
Lending some inspiration to the cause, Barb has shared her mother’s recipe for Peanut Butter Balls, a staple treat for special occasions.
Barb said her mom would quadruple the recipe over and over and would fill the freezer with containers of the treats for later use.
“My two brothers and I quickly discovered that not only did Peanut Butter Balls freeze well, but also would quickly defrost in our mouths,” she said.
After discovering her supply was dwindling, her mother purchased a freezer that had a locking door. Sneaking treats came to a quick halt, she said, until they discovered where she hid the key to the freezer.
Peanut Butter Balls continue to be a holiday tradition for the Gettys.
And as Barb notes, though a few get tested before going into the freezer…they still quickly defrost in their mouths.
Peanut Butter Balls by Barb Getty
Ingredients
1 cup peanut butter
2 Tablespoons butter, softened
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 6-ounce package chocolate chips