Smart cookies

It’s the sweetest time of the year. Epi Sub & Pizza in Bangor is selling gingerbread people again to benefit the Bangor Humane Society. They cost $1 each, or can become part of a cookie platter along with magic bars, peanut-marshmallow clusters, walnut melt-aways, mini chocolate chip cookies, mini M&M cookies, mini oatmeal-raisin cookies, and mini peanut butter cookies topped with Hershey’s Kisses. The cookie platters are served on a ceramic holiday plate and cost $18.99, $3 of which will benefit the humane society. For platters, order a day in advance by calling 942-3888 or visiting Epi at 128 Main St.

New Year’s cheer

Toast in 2005 at the Muddy Rudder in Brewer with a buffet dinner and dance in the new Chamberlain Room. The evening starts at 6:30 p.m. with an appetizer buffet and social hour. Dinner lasts from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. and dancing to the tunes of Brian Catell and Jump City Jazz Band starts at 9 p.m. Dec. 31. Dinner costs $50 per person or $350 for a table of eight, tax and gratuity included. There will be a cash bar and reservations are required. For more information, call 989-5389.

Let it snow

Looking for a festive, easy dessert that kids and grown-ups will love? Try Pepperidge Farms’ Snow Kids in Puff Pastry Shells. To make, bake 1 package Pepperidge Farm frozen puff pastry shells according to package directions. Divide 11/2 cups prepared chocolate pudding among the 6 shells. Top with whipped topping and sprinkle with green decorating sugar. Refrigerate until serving time. Make “snow kids” with 1 package Pepperidge Farm Ginger Man or Ginger Family cookies. Cut red fruit strips into 6 small strips for “scarves.” Wrap 1 strip around neck of each ginger cookie. Ball up pieces of fruit strips for “eyes” and press onto cookies. At serving time, place “snow kids” in prepared shells. Serve immediately.

Tidbits is hungry for news about local food products and events. Send your Tidbits by mail to: Bangor Daily News, attn: Kristen Andresen, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor ME 04402-1329; by fax to 941-9476; or by e-mail to kandresen@bangordailynews.net.