Happy Birthday Kansas!

Sunday, January 29, is Kansas' birthday - 151 years this year. There have been many celebrations across the state in the last year to recognize the rich history of our state, but I think one of the most special things is the pride many Kansans have for their state. When you think of food - as I like to do - Kansas is an important place to be. Many foods originate in the rich Kansas agriculture, or have connections with Kansas.
At least 90% of the land area of Kansas (47 million acres) is devoted to agriculture production. Kansas ranks first in the nation for the number of commercial cattle processed, many of them starting on the cow-calf ranches here in Greenwood County. Kansas is know as the Wheat State, harvesting approximately 10 million bushels each year.
Some fun food facts also find their way into history lessons. Pizza Hut begin in Kansas - in 1958. At one time it was illegal to serve ice cream with cherry pie. Graham crackers were invented by Rev. Sylvester Graham of Kansas who thought people should eat more whole wheat flour products.
So in celebrations of Kansas Day - I made Sunflower Seed cookies...

Banana Sunflower Seed Cookies

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 very ripe medium bananas peeled and mashed

½ cup butter, at room temperature

½ cup granulated white sugar

½ cup shelled sunflower seeds

½ cup miniature chocolate chips

Whisk together flour and baking soda in a small bowl. Set aside. In a large bowl, beat bananas, butter, and sugar on medium speed until thoroughly combined. Add flour mixture half at a time, beating to incorporate. Fold in sunflower seeds and chocolate chips. Refrigerate cookie dough for 45 minutes to 1 hour. (this helps keep the cookies from spreading too much) Drop dough in 1 tablespoon-size scoops on parchment lined cookie sheets. Bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees.