Congressman Dreier balances sweets and exercise

The New Year is the time people resolve to diet and exercise more – after they finish off the last of the Christmas cookies. A Southland Congressman is reaching for that balance between what’s good and what’s good for you.

Congressman David Dreier admits that he’s no cook.

"I can make scrambled eggs and I can pour Cheerios," he says. "That’s the extent of my culinary talent."

Instead, the Republican from San Dimas says he takes great pride in consuming.

"I’m a consumer of all kinds of Christmas cookies and – what’s that white stuff they put on?" he said.

Icing perhaps? Or powdered sugar? Dreier says he's been eating those things "like they’ve been going out of style."

And with the gain, there’s the inevitable pain and Dreier says he's exercising even more: "Being a true Californian."

Congressman David Dreier's Favorite Cookies

1 cup softened butter
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups sifted flour
1 cup ground or chopped nuts
1 teaspoon vanilla

Combine all ingredients. Form into 1 1/2 inch balls. Bake on cookie sheet at 350 degrees for about 10-15 minutes or until set. Roll in more powdered sugar while still warm.