The Cookie Crunch

When visions of sugarplums dance in your head, do you bolt upright in your bed, awakened by an anxiety attack about the need to get them baked in time for the holidays?

If yes, seek help from Sugarplum Fairy Home Baking. Run by Karen Reyburn, this local Ottawa company bakes up a long list of seasonal delights that are perfect for the baking-impaired, or for those of us who just can’t find the time to do it all ourselves.

To place your order, just call or email to let Karen know what you’d like. The choices are mouth-watering, the packages flexible. For example, $65 buys you 10 dozen cookies, all in different kinds, ranging from classic shortbread to double brownies, gingersnaps, caramel toffee squares and marble swirls. Smaller packages and custom orders are available, too.

Yummy Cookies is another home-style bakery you’ll be thrilled to discover. We’ve mentioned their outstanding cupcakes before, but Christmas is when this business really shines. Their specialty—the Belgian chocolate-dipped shortbread cookies—cannot be equalled. Classic and cranberry-lemon shortbread are on the menu too, as well as decorated cookies and other treats. Email for the full selection and order at least 48 hours ahead of time. Prices range from $8 to $18 a dozen. Delivery can sometimes be arranged. Otherwise pickup is in the Rideau Gardens area.

West-enders will want to consider Sylvie Lachance, the Kanata-based owner of another home-based baking service with a long list of seasonal offerings, from individually decorated sugar cookies to chocolate cherry balls, truffles, fudge and shortbread. Prices range from $12 to $24 per dozen, and variety trays are available in several sizes. Delivery is free in the Kanata area and can be arranged for a small fee for other locations.

Life of Pie is not about cookies, but we defy you to track down a better homemade butter tart in the nation’s capital. These ones come in four different varieties—with raisins, pecans, walnuts or plain—and were among the original few specialties that kick-started this now-thriving Bank Street business. If butter tarts are a Christmas tradition in your house, don’t miss these ones.

Finally, Harmony Bake Shop is an Ottawa bakery that makes at least a dozen kinds of gluten-free cookies, as well the usual gluten-filled types, decorated cookies, cupcakes and specialty cakes. Phone or email to order and arrange pick-up or delivery.

Perfect for hostess gifts, stocking stuffers and enjoying with your own family, these short and sweet cuts will save you that time you’ve been looking for lately.