Crumbs and Chaos

Seasonal Inspiration: 3-9-12

2012-03-09T22:38:00.002-06:00

Fabulous inspiration from last week:

4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola Bars from Practical Stewardship

Mint Brownie Grasshopper Pie from Kitchen Meets Girls

Vanilla Bean Pot de Creme from Gastronomical Sovereignty

The Best Chocolate Cake from Country Momma Cooks

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So let's go, we're ready to be inspired!

5 on Friday: Cinnamon Lover's Edition

2012-03-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

This week we dedicate our 5 on Friday to one of ~~our favorite spices~~ the most widely used spices in the world... CINNAMON! It is a spice my kitchen wouldn't survive without. So here are a few of our favorite cinnamon lover recipes brought to you by Crumbs and Chaos!

Cinnamon Sugar Kettle Corn

Cinnamon Sugar Pull-Apart Bread

Cinnamon Roll Waffles

Cinnamon Roasted Almond Cones

Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Cups

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE WAY TO USE CINNAMON???

Sweet and Savory Coconut Rice

2012-03-08T06:00:00.000-06:00

What's for dinner tonight? The question of the 4 o'clock hour. It's easy to fall into a dinner rut - the same tacos, spaghetti, quesadillas, pizza and chicken. Sometimes venturing out into the new and interesting is the last thing from your mind.

Enter sweet and savory coconut rice. Something fresh and different, not to mention easy and delicious. This is the perfect side dish to help get you out of that dinner rut.

It would be fantastic enjoyed with any of these main dishes: Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders, Steak & Veggie Kabobs, Baked Tilapia or Grilled Pork Chops w/Lime, Garlic & Cilantro Sauce.

Sweet & Savory Coconut Rice

by Becca {Crumbs and Chaos}

Ingredients (8 servings)

2 cups WHITE RICE
1 (14 oz.) can COCONUT MILK
2 cups WATER
1 teaspoon KOSHER SALT
Splash of WHITE VINEGAR
2 teaspoons WHITE SUGAR
1/4 cup CHOPPED GREEN ONIONS, plus more for garnish
BLACK PEPPER to taste

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, stir together rice, coconut milk, water, salt, vinegar and sugar.

Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to low for 20 minutes or until most of liquid is absorbed. Let stand 5 minutes.

Stir in green onions, pepper and more salt if needed.

Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired. Serve right away.

Recipe Source: Our Best Bites Cookbook

You can find us linking up HERE!

Chocolate Ricotta Mousse

2012-03-06T23:00:00.001-06:00

I originally saw this recipe in the January/February 2011 issue of Everyday Food Magazine because it was opposite the Mocha Chip Angel Food Cake that I was making. When flipping back through the magazine, I saw it again and realized that I had all the ingredients already on hand (I LOVE when that happens)! I made it the next day and not only was it simple to make but it makes it a lot easier to finish when you know that some healthy substitutions have been made. It uses egg whites and ricotta instead of traditional egg yolks and heavy whipping cream. According to the magazine, it only has 166 calories per serving.

I will say that the texture is not going to be as smooth and creamy as a traditional mousse, but what it may lack in texture it makes up for in flavor. To serve, you can sprinkle with some additional cocoa powder or do what we did (even though I'm pretty sure it takes away from everything I mentioned above!), we topped ours with whipped cream and an oreo, because that's just the kind of family we are!

Chocolate Ricotta Mousse

by Megan {Crumbs and Chaos}

Keywords: dessert chocolate

Ingredients

2 cups part-skim RICOTTA
3 tablespoons COCOA POWDER, plus more for dusting (optional)
2 EGG WHITES, room temperature
1/2 cup SUGAR
COARSE SALT

Instructions

In a food processor, pulse ricotta and cocoa powder until completely smooth (this is very important because if you don't get it completely smooth, you will still have the 'grit' of the ricotta). Transfer mixture to a large bowl.

Place egg whites, sugar, and pinch of salt in a medium heatproof mixing bowl set over (not in) a pot of simmering water. Cook, whisking constantly, until sugar dissolves and mixture is warm to the touch. Remove bowl from heat and, using an electric mixer, beat mixture on high until stiff glossy peaks form. With a rubber spatula, gently fold egg-white mixture into ricotta mixture until combined. Divide mousse among four glasses or small bowls. Refrigerate until set, 3 hours or up to 1 day. ENJOY!

You can find us linking up HERE!

Chocolate Chip Scones

2012-03-06T12:05:00.000-06:00

Around the holidays, I found this recipe from a mom's cookbook I was given and I have loved them ever since. I made them with mini chocolate chips because that was what I had on hand, but the original recipe called for cinnamon chips which would be delicious too. They make quite a few so I have made them where I chilled half of the dough for another day instead of making them all at once. Bring the dough back to room temperature before rolling out the dough. Enjoy these goodies for breakfast, a morning snack or as dessert!

Chocolate Chip Scones

by Emily {Crumbs and Chaos}

Ingredients (12-16 scones)

3 1/4 cups flour
1/3 cup sugar + 2 Tablespoon sugar divided
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup cold butter, cubed
1 cup buttermilk
10 oz. mini chocolate chips
2 Tablespoons butter, melted
1 pinch of cinnamon added to the flour

Instructions

In a large bowl combine flour, 1/3 cup sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Stir in buttermilk just until moistened. Fold in chips. Turn onto a lightly floured surface, knead gently 10-12 times or until dough is no longer sticky.

Divide in half or fourths, gently pat down or roll each portion in a 7-inch circle.

Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with remaining sugar.

Cut each circle into 6 or 8 wedges and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.

Bake at 425 for 10-13 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve warm.

You can find us linking up HERE!

"EB Mine" Giveaway Winner

2012-03-05T14:29:00.000-06:00

The winner of last week's Eggland's Best giveaway is:

SalBugFeb 27, 2012 10:51 AM

I like to add a little 2% american cheese to my scrambled eggs. They don't taste cheesy, but are incredibly creamy.

Please contact us (crumbsandchaos {at} gmail {dot} com) within 48 hours to claim your prize!

(Baked) Cookies and Cream Donuts

2012-03-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

So, my bro-in-law, Ben, would do just about anything for a stack of Oreo cookies and a cold glass of milk.

He's also teaching his son, Jonah, that milk's favorite cookie is one of the best things...ever. I have to agree that there are few things like the iconic white cream sandwiched between two chocolate wafers, I'll take mine double stuffed please.

I'm about to be Ben's favorite sis-in-law today...I took his favorite cookie and added it to breakfast. Smiles all around, no matter what the occasion is. A baked chocolate donut taken up a notch by adding chopped oreos, topped with creamy cream cheese icing and more chopped oreos. Definitely don't forget the milk!

(Baked) Cookies and Cream Donuts

by Becca {Crumbs and Chaos}

Ingredients

2 cups FLOUR
3/4 cup SUGAR
1/2 cup COCOA POWDER
1 teaspoon BAKING POWDER
1 teaspoon BAKING SODA
1 teaspoon SALT
3/4 cup + 2 Tablespoons BUTTERMILK
2 EGGS
1 teaspoon VANILLA
2 Tablespoons MELTED BUTTER
10 OREO COOKIES
2 oz. CREAM CHEESE
3/4 cup POWDERED SUGAR
2 Tablespoons CREAM
1/4 teaspoon VANILLA

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°. Grease donut pans. Roughly chop 6 of the oreo cookies.

Combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

Add buttermilk, eggs, vanilla and melted butter. Stir well. Add in chopped cookies, stir gently.

Fill each donut well about 3/4 full.

Bake 10-12 minutes. Cool before adding glaze.

Finely chop remaining 4 cookies.

Microwave cream cheese for 15 seconds to soften. Add powdered sugar, cream and vanilla, stir well. Glaze cooled donuts, top with finely chopped cookies.

Recipe Source: I added to this basic donut recipe from Shugary Sweets

You can find us linking up here!

Seasonal Inspiration: 3-3-12

2012-03-02T19:49:00.000-06:00

Fabulous inspiration from last week:

Lemon Cookie Cream Cheese Truffles from The Sweet Spot

Busy Day Chicken Noodle Soup from Grateful Belly

Milky Way Muddy Buddies from Angela's Adventures

Chicken Bacon Ranch Nachos from What's Cooking, Love?

Peanut Butter Truffle Cupcakes from Tasty Sweet Cupcakes

So let's go, we're ready to be inspired!

5 on Friday: Girl Scout Cookies...Part 2

2012-03-02T06:00:00.000-06:00

Let me guess... you completely forgot to buy your girl scout cookies and now you are having serious cravings! Or maybe you have already devoured all of the cookies you bought and now you are having major withdrawals. Whatever your case, you are in luck! For this week's 5 on Friday we are featuring 5 ways to make homemade girl scout cookies. And if you already have your cookies, make sure you check out last week's 5 on Friday where we featured 5 delicious recipes to help you use up all the cookies you bought.

Tagalongs from Bakers Royale

Do Si Dos from Rumbly in my Tumbly

Thin Mints from Handle the Heat

Trefoils from Sweet November

Samoas from Baking Bites

** Remember... if you love our featured items, please click on the link and go to their blog before pinning! Thanks!

Orange Oatmeal Cookies

2012-03-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

When Ben and I lived on the East Coast our families were 15+ hours away. We learned that when in a position like that, friends are of the utmost importance. We met a couple named Wayne and Erin who quickly became good friends. We went over to their house on quite a few occasions for dinner and it was always the highlight of my week! Not only for the company and fellowship but because Erin was an amazing cook. The meals were always delicious and followed up with an irresistible dessert!

When she told me about this cookie recipe a few weeks ago, I knew I had to try it. She said that she created it because her kids LOVE cookies, but she was out of brown sugar and vanilla. She wanted something that was somewhat healthy and filling too! And so, the Orange Oatmeal Cookie was born! She made her's with raisins but gave me a heads up that dark chocolate would be great too. Of course, I couldn't resist that. So when we made ours we did half of the batch with raisins and half with mini chocolate chips. I loved the addition of the orange, Jonah loved the chocolate chips, and Maddux loved the raisins! It was a win for everyone! GREAT JOB ERIN!

Orange Oatmeal Cookies

by Megan {Crumbs and Chaos}

Keywords: bake oatmeal oranges cookie

Ingredients

1 cup BUTTER
1 1/2 cup SUGAR
2 EGGS
zest of 1 ORANGE
1 1/2 teaspoon ORANGE JUICE
2 cup FLOUR
1 teaspoon SALT
1 teaspoon BAKING SODA
1/2 teaspoon CINNAMON
2 cups OATMEAL
1 cup RAISINS or MINI CHOCOLATE CHIPS

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Add eggs, orange zest, and orange juice. In a separate bowl combine flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon. Slowly add flour mixture into egg mixture and mix until combined. Mix in oatmeal and raisins or chocolate chips until combined. On a parchement lined cookie sheet, drop 2 tablespoon sized balls of dough. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden. ENJOY!

SOME OF OUR FAVORITE COOKIES ARE:

Chocolate PB Explosion Cookies

Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

You can find us linking up here!

Let's Review: Crock pot favorites

2012-02-29T06:00:00.000-06:00

Earlier this month, we shared a few of our new crock pot favorites - Cafe Rio Chicken, Pork Chops with Mushroom Sauce and Pizza. Today we're going to take a glance into the C&C archives and share some of our old favorites with you.

Italian Sausage and Peppers

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Black Bean and Salsa Chicken

Everyday Company Beef

Chicken Taco Chili

Italian Beef Sandwiches

BBQ Chicken

Hot Fudge Brownie Cake

You can find us linking up here!

French Toast Kabobs and Egg Salad Dip

2012-02-28T06:00:00.000-06:00

Today we continue our "EB Mine" Brunch for Eggland's Best. You may have seen yesterday that one of our dishes was a FANTASTIC Mediterranean Breakfast Pizza(and you know my love for the Mediterranean flavors). Today our dishes feature eggs used in different ways. Don't forget to stop by and enter our giveaway for some great Eggland's Best goodies!

The first was a sweet take on brunch with French Toast Kabobs. As with traditional french toast, the egg was used in the coating before cooking the bread. But, unlike traditional french toast, this bread was cut into cubes and baked. Then skewered with fruit. We chose pineapple, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. You can use whichever fruit you like. We also used toothpicks to make kid friendly kabobs. Each toothpick included one french toast square and one piece of fruit. They were just the right size and the kids loved them!

French Toast Kabobs

by Becca {Crumbs and Chaos}

Ingredients

1 (1 lb.) loaf 9 GRAIN ITALIAN BREAD
8 EGGS
2/3 cup MILK
Pinch of SALT
1/2 teaspoon VANILLA
1 teaspoon CINNAMON
ASSORTED FRUIT - berries, pineapple, etc.
POWDERED SUGAR, for sprinkling
PURE MAPLE SYRUP, for serving
BAMBOO SKEWERS

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°.

Cut bread into 1 inch cubes. Spread out on baking sheet, leave out on counter a few hours or up to overnight. (Alternatively, it could be toasted in the oven for 5-6 minutes before coating.)

In a large bowl, beat together eggs, milk, salt, vanilla and cinnamon.

Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Put half of the bread cubes into the egg mixture, stir gently. Using a slotted spoon, remove bread crumbs from egg mixture and place in a single layer on lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining bread cubes.

Bake for 6-8 minutes. Flip bread cubes and bake 6 minutes more or until golden and cooked through.

Remove from oven and place onto skewers with fresh fruit to make kabobs. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve immediately with maple syrup for dipping.

Recipe Source: Inspired by this recipe

The other dish that we made was a wonderful appetizer. Instead of buying eggs in a carton and going through the process of boiling and peeling, we used Eggland's Best hard-cooked peeled eggs. It made the process so much simpler and got us to the table faster! Also, instead of the typical mayonnaise used in egg salad, we used plain greek yogurt. It was great served with bell peppers, celery, and pita chips!

Egg Salad Dip

by Becca {Crumbs and Chaos}

Printable Recipe Here

Ingredients

6 HARD BOILED EGGS
1 cup PLAIN GREEK YOGURT
2-3 teaspoons DIJON MUSTARD
1 1/2 teaspoons DRIED PARSLEY
1/4 teaspoon DRIED BASIL
1/8 teaspoon GARLIC POWDER
SALT & PEPPER, to taste

Instructions

Peel and chop eggs. Place in a bowl,

Add yogurt, mustard, parsley, basil, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix well.

Place 2/3 of the mixture in food processor. Process until smooth. Return to bowl and stir to combine.

Serve with pita chips, crackers or fresh vegetables.

Recipe Source: Adapted from Eggland's Best

You can find us linking up here

Disclosure: Eggland's Best provided us with VIP coupons, gift card, information and prize pack to giveaway to our readers.

"EB Mine" Brunch with Eggland's Best + a giveaway

2012-02-27T06:00:00.000-06:00

February is National Heart Health Month and we were thrilled to be asked to host an "EB Mine" Brunch for Eggland's Best. You know we can't get enough breakfast around here. We were joined by those we love and cooked up an egg-citing little egg feast!

According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death among men and women in the United States. Proper nutrition and daily exercise are two simple steps you can take to help reduce your risk of heart disease.

Eggs are one of the most nutrient dense foods you can eat and can easily be incorporated into a heart healthy diet. Eggland's Best Eggs contain more than two times the heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids than ordinary eggs, twice as much vitamin D and ten times more vitamin E.

So appropriate that one of our strawberries was heart shaped! Today we're sharing our recipe for Mediterranean Breakfast Pizza, later this week we'll share the recipes for French Toast Kabobs and Egg Salad Dip.

Earlier this year, we made a breakfast pizza that was easy as well as delicious. This is the heart healthy version of that pizza is full of our favorite Mediterranean flavors. Spinach would be another great addition to this fabulous brunch dish.

Mediterranean Breakfast Pizza

by Becca {Crumbs and Chaos}

Ingredients

1 can CRESCENT ROLLS
4 EGGS
1/4 cup MILK
SALT & PEPPER
ROASTED RED PEPPERS, chopped
KALAMATA OLIVES, chopped
MARINATED ARTICHOKE HEARTS, chopped
FETA CHEESE, crumbled
DRIED OREGANO

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°.

Lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove crescent rolls from can and press seams together to make one large rectangle. Bake in oven for 5-8 minutes until it just starts to turn golden.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, scramble eggs with milk and salt and pepper. Cook in a small skillet until just set.

Layer eggs on crust, top with red peppers, artichoke hearts and olives. Sprinkle feta cheese over top and lastly sprinkle oregano lightly over entire pizza. Return to oven for 5-6 minutes or until heated through.

Cut into squares and serve immediately.

Recipe Source: A Crumbs and Chaos Original

*The GIVEAWAY*

You will receive:

2 coupons for free Eggland's Best dozen (any variety) eggs

1 coupon for free Eggland's Best Hard Cooked and Peeled eggs

Eggland's Best apron, spatula, whisk, cutting board, mixing bowl, scraper, coffee mug, plush egg and tote bag

To enter (leave a comment for each one that you do)

1) Leave a comment telling us what heart healthy ingredient do you feel pairs well with Eggland's Best eggs?

2) Follow us on Twitter

3) Follow us on Pinterest

4) Let us know how you see our daily blog posts - is it by email, in an RSS feed, on Facebook?

This giveaway will close on Friday, March 2nd at 12 noon.

The winner of this giveaway was announced here!

Disclosure: Eggland's Best provided us with VIP coupons, gift card, information and prize pack to giveaway to our readers.

You can find us linking up here!

Seasonal Inspiration: 2-25-12

2012-02-24T21:00:00.000-06:00

Fabulous Inspiration from last week:

Applebee's Oriental Chicken Salad from Mandy's Recipe Box

Blueberry Lemon Pancakes from Peanut Butter and Peppers

Milk Chocolate Ganache Cookie Bites from My Crowded Kitchen

Pina Colada Dip from Life's Simple Measures

** Remember... if you love our featured items, please click on the link and go to their blog before pinning! Thanks!

So let's go, we're ready to be inspired!

5 on Friday: Girl Scout Cookies

2012-02-24T06:00:00.000-06:00

The cookies are being delivered. Without me even saying it, I'm sure that you know what I'm referring to. GIRL SCOUT COOKIES, of course! Today we are featuring 5 different recipes to make using girl scout cookies. Seriously, you can't go wrong!

Thin Mint Cookie Truffles from Six Sisters' Stuff

Samoa Carmel Bark from A BitterSweet Wife

Tagalong Cupcakes from The Culinary Chronicles

Thin Mint Ice Cream Sandwiches from Shaken Together

Trefoil Cheesecake Cup from Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee (this link has additional great recipes)

AND... don't forget to check out our post from yesterday, THIN MINT POPCORN!

** Remember... if you love our featured items, please click on the link and go to their blog before pinning! Thanks!

You can find us linking up here!

Thin Mint Popcorn

2012-02-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

It's Girl Scout Cookie time. I know that all of those cookies are easily enjoyed on thier own, but sometimes it's fun to combine two of your favorite things to make the ultimate movie night snack.

Enter Thin Mint Popcorn...quick, easy,dangerously addictive and deliciously minty - it has all the qualities of a really great snack. Do yourself a favor and make some soon!

This recipe makes a whole baking sheet full so you'll have plenty to share with friends. This is still delicious the next day, but the popcorn does soften up a little bit. If you like your popcorn really crunchy, you may want to consider making this shortly before you plan on enjoying it.

Thin Mint Popcorn

by Becca {Crumbs and Chaos}

Keywords: no bake 5 ingredients or less snack dessert

Ingredients

8 cups of lightly salted POPCORN (1/4 cup unpopped if you are popping your own)
8 oz. CANDIQUIK (or vanilla almond bark or other candy coating)
1/4 teaspoon MINT EXTRACT
18 THIN MINT GIRL SCOUT COOKIES

Instructions

Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.

Place popcorn in a large bowl. Coarsely chop cookies, set aside.

In a microwavable bowl, melt candiquik for 45 seconds. Stir; heat for 15 more seconds. Stir again. Repeat until completely melted.

Stir in mint extract and pour over popcorn. Add in chopped cookies and gently stir together until everything is coated.

Spread on baking sheet to cool. Break into pieces.

You can find us linking up here!

(Crockpot) Pizza

2012-02-22T06:00:00.000-06:00

In searching for a crock pot dish, there are many ways to go. There are always your typical dishes along with a few quirky choices, lots of meat, TONS of chicken, and even a few desserts! When I wasn't finding anything that really screamed my name I decided to quit searching and go with a dish I have had a quite a few times, as it is a regular on the menu at my in-laws. It is very easy and everyone likes it. It is also very customizable because you can add any additional ingredients that you like. Imagine it as a pizza you are topping. You could add peppers, onions, olives, anchovies, canadian bacon, and the list goes on and on!

Now I do have a disclaimer to make... My in-laws (along with other recipes that I saw) cooked their noodles first and then layered them in the crock pot to heat through. I, however, always look for the easiest way to use as few dishes in the kitchen as possible. I recall making crock pot lasagna a few times and not having to cook the noodles first. So I thought why not apply this method to the Crock Pot Pizza. So I did, and while the flavor was fantastic it was a little drier than I prefer (not everyone thought that so it may just be personal preference). So I have two solutions for you... You can either use the extra dishes and cook the noodles ahead of time, which also shortens the cooking time. OR you can check your dish about 30 minutes before it finishes, and if need be, add more sauce. Allowing it to only cook enough to heat it through and incorporate into the dish. So there you have it... and whichever way you choose, I don't think you will be disappointed.

{Crockpot} Pizza

by Megan {Crumbs and Chaos}

Ingredients

16 oz NOODLES, we used shells but you could use penne or any short pasta
1 lb ITALIAN SAUSAGE
32 oz jar SPAGHETTI SAUCE
1 pkg PEPPERONI MINIS
1 1/2 Tablespoons ITALIAN SEASONING
2 cups MOZZARELLA CHEESE

Instructions

Brown sausage, drain. Add spaghetti sauce, pepperoni, and Italian seasoning. In crockpot, mix together, noodles, sauce mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Cook on low for 4 hours. About 30 minutes before finished, check to make sure that it isn't too dry. You may need to add additional sauce.

*If you want this to be done faster, you can cook the noodles al dente before adding to the crock pot. Then cook until heated through and cheese is melted.

You can find us linking up here!

Brownie Batter Dip

2012-02-21T11:43:00.000-06:00

So you may have seen this recipe floating around the web and pinterest... I originally found it over at Something Swanky and started drooling. I personally LOVE brownie batter (maybe better than the brownies themselves), so this was a quick sell for me. After skimming the recipe and seeing that it is fairly simple to put together made it even more enticing.

I made it for a Super Bowl party that I was going to and it was a hit! A dangerous addicting hit! Served with pretzels, everyone loved it! How could you not???

This would also be delicious served with vanilla wafers, graham crackers or fruit.

Brownie Batter Dip

by Megan {Crumbs and Chaos}

Ingredients

8 oz CREAM CHEESE
1/2 cup BUTTER
2-3 cup POWDERED SUGAR -- varies by desired consistency
5 Tablespoons FLOUR
5 Tablespoons COCOA POWDER
2 Tablespoons BROWN SUGAR
3+ Tablespoons MILK -- varies by desired consistency
1 teaspoon VANILLA

Instructions

With a mixer, beat together the cream cheese and the butter. Add 2 cups of the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, and 1 tablespoon of milk until combined. Add the flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, vanilla and 1 more tablespoon of milk if needed. Beat until smooth. Add remaining powdered sugar and milk alternately until dip reaches your desired consistency.

Here are a few more great brownie recipes to drool over:

Mint Chocolate Brownies

Basic One Bowl Brownies

Brownies in a Jar with Salted Caramel Icing

Reese's Cheesecake Brownies

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies

(How to) Make No-Mess Wonton Tacos

2012-02-20T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'm going to start this post with the disclousure that no-mess refers to making the taco shell not eating them. Just wanted to be clear before we get started.

So my love of mexican food is not a secret (as seen here, here and here). I've heard of wonton tacos on restaurant menus (although sometimes they are more Asian based), and a quick search of the web shows many recipes for wonton tacos frying up the filled wonton shells. Well, I really don't like cleaning up the mess after something gets fried, so I rarely fry things. I decided to crank up the oven and bake the shells instead.

I used a metal cooling rack, put it on a baking sheet and laid a wonton wrapper over the wire of the rack forming a triangle taco shape. They baked up in about 8 minutes. I gentley removed them and stuffed them full of Cafe Rio Chicken, coleslaw mix (because it has a nice crunch to it and there's no prep involved) shredded cheese and a little Frank's Red Hot. Then I folded up the rack and put it and the baking sheet back where they belong. See? I told you they were no-mess!

These would be fabulous as an appetizer, an entree with rice and beans or switch it up and make it Asian like the restaurants do!

No-Mess Wonton Tacos

by Becca {Crumbs and Chaos}

Keywords: appetizer entree Mexican

Ingredients

Wonton Wrappers
Taco Meat (Beef or Cafe Rio Chicken)
Shredded Cheddar
Coleslaw Mix
Hot Sauce

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°.

Place a metal cooling rack on a baking sheet. Lay wonton wrappers over each wire of the rack forming a triangle taco shape.

Bake for 8-9 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Gently remove shells from rack.

Fill with taco meat, coleslaw mix, cheese and top with hot sauce. Serve immediately.

This recipe may to linked to these fabulous parties: SUNDAY Sharing Sundays - Everyday Sisters,Sweet Indulgences Sunday - A Well Seasoned Life, Church Supper - Everyday Mom's Meals, Weekend Warrior Party - Ask Anna Moseley, Sunday Scoop - I Heart Naptime, Nifty Thrifty Sunday - Nifty Thrifty Things MONDAY Melt In Your Mouth Monday - Make Ahead Meals for Busy Moms, Made By You Monday - Skip To My Lou, Mingle Monday - Add A Pinch, Makin' You Crave Monday - Mrs. Happy Homemaker, Must Try Mondays - My Favorite Finds,Snap, Craft & Blog til Your Heart's Content - A Content Housewife , More the Merrier Monday - DIY Home Sweet Home, Mix It Up Monday - Flour Me With Love , Monday Link Party - Polish the Stars, Mop It Up Mondays - I Should Be Mopping the Floor, The Sweet Spot, Mouthwatering Monday - A Southern Fairytale, Meet Me Monday - You are Talking Too Much Cowgirl Up - Crafty Texas Girls TUESDAY Tasty Tuesday - Nap Time Creations, Totally Tasty Tuesday - Mandy's Recipe Box, Tuesday Time Out - Reasons to Skip the Housework, Tuesday Talent Show - Chef in Training, Crazy Sweet Tueasday - Crazy For Crust, Tasty Tuesday - 33 Shades of Green, Totally Inspired Tuesdays - The Inspired Collection, Trick or Treat Tuesdays - Inside BruCrew Life WEDNESDAY These Chicks Cooked - This Chick Cooks, Recipe Linky - Newlyweds Blog, What I Whipped Up Wednesday - Sugar and Dots, Mrs. Fox's Sweet Party - Mrs. Fox's Sweet s, Link It Up Wednesday - Junk In Their Trunk, Rock n' Share Party - The Shady Porch, Share & Wow Wednesday - A Turtle's Life For Me, Cast Party Wednesday - Lady Behind the Curtain, Wednesday Wowsers - Oopsey Daisy, From Dream to Reality - The DIY Dreamer THURSDAY Sweet Treats Thursday - Something Swanky, It's a Keeper - Everyday Tastes, Things I've Done Thursday - Bear Rabb it Bear, Tastetastic Thursday - A Little Nosh, One Stop Thursday Party - Digital Scrapbooking Made Easy Full Plate Thursday - Miz Helen's Country Cottage, Chic & Crafty Thursdays - The Frugal Girls, Crazy Cute Thursdays - Between U & Me, Taking A Timeout Thursday - Mom On Timeout FRIDAY Sweet Tooth Friday - Alli-n-Son, I'm Lovin' It - Tidy Mom, Fusion Friday - Jennifer Cooks, Friday Favorites - Simply Sweet Home, Friday Flair - Whipperberry, Feature Friday - Blissful and Domestic, 4th Friday Finale - Over The Big Moon, Delicately Constucted Fridays - Delicate Construction, Shine On Friday - One Artsy Mama,Feature Friday Free-For-All - Five Days...5 Ways, Weekend Potluck - The Country Cook, Kitchen Fun and Crafty Friday - Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons, Dwell on Friday - Dwell on Joy SATURDAY Seasonal Inspiration - Crumbs and Chaos, Strut Your Stuff Saturday - Six Sister's Stuff, Show and Tell Saturdays - Be Different Act Normal, Sweets For a Saturday - Sweet As Sugar Cookies, Tip Junkie, Everybody's Creative Endeavor - Every Creative En deavor, Tip Junkie, Once Upon A Weekend - Family Ever After, Weekend Wrap Up Party - Tatertots and Jello, This Week's Cravings - Mom's Crazy Cooking

Seasonal Inspiration: 2-18-12

2012-02-17T21:00:00.000-06:00

Fabulous Inspiration from last week:

The Magical Rotisserie Chicken from Lisa's Dinnertime Dish

Red Velvet Cheesecake Pudding Mousse from Something Swanky

White Chocolate Nutella Spoons from The Sweet Spot

Simple Valentine's Snack from Dwell On Joy

** Remember... if you love our featured items, please click on the link and go to their blog before pinning! Thanks!

So let's go, we're ready to be inspired!

5 on Friday: School's out...what's for breakfast?

2012-02-17T06:00:00.000-06:00

You may have an extra-long weekend if your children have a school holiday this coming Monday. So I've put together a list of special-school's-out-today breakfasts.

Biscuits covered in Chocolate Gravy

S'more Pancakes

Ham & Cheese Frittata

Breakfast Pizza

Simple Doughnuts

I know this list is only supposed to be 5, but I can't help but throwing in a bonus - my favorite Buttermilk Pancakes. They are out of this world delicious.

What do you make as a special breakfast when your kids are out of school and you have a little more time to make breakfast?

This recipe may to linked to these fabulous parties: SUNDAY Sharing Sundays - Everyday Sisters,Sweet Indulgences Sunday - A Well Seasoned Life, Church Supper - Everyday Mom's Meals, Weekend Warrior Party - Ask Anna Moseley, Sunday Scoop - I Heart Naptime, Nifty Thrifty Sunday - Nifty Thrifty Things MONDAY Melt In Your Mouth Monday - Make Ahead Meals for Busy Moms, Made By You Monday - Skip To My Lou, Mingle Monday - Add A Pinch, Makin' You Crave Monday - Mrs. Happy Homemaker, Must Try Mondays - My Favorite Finds,Snap, Craft & Blog til Your Heart's Content - A Content Housewife , More the Merrier Monday - DIY Home Sweet Home, Mix It Up Monday - Flour Me With Love , Monday Link Party - Polish the Stars, Mop It Up Mondays - I Should Be Mopping the Floor TUESDAY Tasty Tuesday - Nap Time Creations, Totally Tasty Tuesday - Mandy's Recipe Box, Tuesday Time Out - Reasons to Skip the Housework, Tuesday Talent Show - Chef in Training, Crazy Sweet Tueasday - Crazy For Crust, Tasty Tuesday - 33 Shades of Green, Totally Inspired Tuesdays - The Inspired Collection, Trick or Treat Tuesdays - Inside BruCrew Life WEDNESDAY These Chicks Cooked - This Chick Cooks, Recipe Linky - Newlyweds Blog, What I Whipped Up Wednesday - Sugar and Dots, Mrs. Fox's Sweet Party - Mrs. Fox's Sweet s, Link It Up Wednesday - Junk In Their Trunk, Rock n' Share Party - The Shady Porch, Share & Wow Wednesday - A Turtle's Life For Me, Cast Party Wednesday - Lady Behind the Curtain, Wednesday Wowsers - Oopsey Daisy THURSDAY Sweet Treats Thursday - Something Swanky, It's a Keeper - Everyday Tastes, Things I've Done Thursday - Bear Rabb it Bear, Tastetastic Thursday - A Little Nosh, One Stop Thursday Party - Digital Scrapbooking Made Easy Full Plate Thursday - Miz Helen's Country Cottage, Chic & Crafty Thursdays - The Frugal Girls, Crazy Cute Thursdays - Between U & Me, Taking A Timeout Thursday - Mom On Timeout FRIDAY Sweet Tooth Friday - Alli-n-Son, I'm Lovin' It - Tidy Mom, Fusion Friday - Jennifer Cooks, Friday Favorites - Simply Sweet Home, Friday Flair - Whipperberry, Feature Friday - Blissful and Domestic, 4th Friday Finale - Over The Big Moon, Delicately Constucted Fridays - Delicate Construction, Shine On Friday - One Artsy Mama,Feature Friday Free-For-All - Five Days...5 Ways, Weekend Potluck - The Country Cook, Kitchen Fun and Crafty Friday - Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons SATURDAY Seasonal Inspiration - Crumbs and Chaos, Strut Your Stuff Saturday - Six Sister's Stuff, Show and Tell Saturdays - Be Different Act Normal, Sweets For a Saturday - Sweet As Sugar Cookies, Tip Junkie, Everybody's Creative Endeavor - Every Creative En deavor, Tip Junkie, Once Upon A Weekend - Family Ever After, Weekend Wrap Up Party - Tatertots and Jello, Sweet Saturday - The Gingerbread Blog

Cookie Dough Cupcakes

2012-02-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

Today we are so excited to have a guest blogger (who also happens to be my sister-in-law!), Brittany. You may remember her from a previous post she did for us last February. We are so happy to have her back, especially when she brings along these delicious treats!

I originally found this recipe on Pinterest which then led me to Alli’N’Sons. The picture alone was enough to make me want to try the recipe! I’m not a huge baker (I would rather cook!), but I really wanted to try these. We had an upcoming bake-off at our church and I decided to try these for it. I ended up coming in 3rd place- People’s Choice, and I was pleased with that! Megan came in 2nd! So, she likes to gloat that her Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies beat these cupcakes!

This recipe is rather time consuming- not hard, just time consuming (trust me, if I can do it, anyone can do it!). However, if you’re a cookie dough fan like me- it’s well worth it!

There are three parts to this recipe- the actual cookie dough cupcake, the cookie dough filling, and the cookie dough frosting. That’s a whole lot of cookie dough! This recipe makes approx. 24 cupcakes.

Cookie Dough Cupcakes

by Guest Blogger for {Crumbs and Chaos}

Keywords: bake dessert cake cookie

Ingredients

For the cupcake, you’ll need:

3 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
1-1/2 cups light brown sugar, packed
4 large eggs
2-2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon finely ground sea salt
1 cup milk
1-1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

For the filling, you’ll need:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
6 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk (half of a 14 oz can)
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips

And, for the frosting, you’ll need:

3 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
3-1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon finely ground sea salt
3 tablespoons milk
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
Tiny chocolate chip cookies
Mini chocolate chip cookies (store-bought or homemade- I used the chewy Chips Ahoy®)

Instructions

Step {ONE}- Cupcakes

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F.

2. Line two cupcake pans with paper liners, 24 total.

3. Using an electric mixer combine the butter and brown sugar beating on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed.

5. In a medium bowl combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

6. Add 1 cup of the flour mixture to the mixer bowl on low speed, then 1/3 of the milk. Continue alternating the flour mixture and milk, ending with the flour. Mix after each addition just until incorporated.

7. Blend in the vanilla and almond extracts.

8. Using a spatula, fold in the chocolate chips.

9. Using an ice cream scoop, divide the batter evenly between the prepared cupcake liners.

10. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

11. Cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes, before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step {TWO}- Filling

1. Combine the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl. Cream on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

2. Add in the flour, sweetened condensed milk and almond extract, mixing until smooth.

3. Stir in the chocolate chips.

4. Cover with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge, for at least an hour. You can also prepare this ahead of time and store in the fridge for several days (but, be warned- you might frequent the fridge more than you’d like!).

5. Once chilled, roll the dough into 24 balls, approximately one-inch.

6. After the cupcakes have cooled, cut a cone-shaped portion out of the center of each cupcake using a small paring knife. Fill each cupcake with a cookie dough ball. You may need to form a cone shape with the cookie dough to get it to fit properly.

Step {THREE}- Frosting

1. Using an electric mixer, beat together the butter and brown sugar until creamy.

2. Mix in the powdered sugar until smooth.

3. Beat in the flour and salt.

4. Add the milk, vanilla and almond extracts until smooth and well blended.

5. Frost the filled cupcakes, sprinkling with mini chocolate chips. Top with half of mini chocolate chip cookie.

6. The frosting can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Before using, bring the frosting to room temperature. Using an electric mixer beat the frosting on medium speed, adding a tablespoon or two of milk to soften it up.

This recipe may to linked to these fabulous parties: SUNDAY Sharing Sundays - Everyday Sisters,Sweet Indulgences Sunday - A Well Seasoned Life, Church Supper - Everyday Mom's Meals, Weekend Warrior Party - Ask Anna Moseley, Sunday Scoop - I Heart Naptime, Nifty Thrifty Sunday - Nifty Thrifty Things MONDAY Melt In Your Mouth Monday - Make Ahead Meals for Busy Moms, Made By You Monday - Skip To My Lou, Mingle Monday - Add A Pinch, Makin' You Crave Monday - Mrs. Happy Homemaker, Must Try Mondays - My Favorite Finds,Snap, Craft & Blog til Your Heart's Content - A Content Housewife , More the Merrier Monday - DIY Home Sweet Home, Mix It Up Monday - Flour Me With Love , Monday Link Party - Polish the Stars, Mop It Up Mondays - I Should Be Mopping the Floor, Cowgirl Up - Crafty Texas Girls TUESDAY Tasty Tuesday - Nap Time Creations, Totally Tasty Tuesday - Mandy's Recipe Box, Tuesday Time Out - Reasons to Skip the Housework, Tuesday Talent Show - Chef in Training, Crazy Sweet Tueasday - Crazy For Crust, Tasty Tuesday - 33 Shades of Green, Totally Inspired Tuesdays - The Inspired Collection, Trick or Treat Tuesdays - Inside BruCrew Life WEDNESDAY These Chicks Cooked - This Chick Cooks, Recipe Linky - Newlyweds Blog, What I Whipped Up Wednesday - Sugar and Dots, Mrs. Fox's Sweet Party - Mrs. Fox's Sweet s, Link It Up Wednesday - Junk In Their Trunk, Rock n' Share Party - The Shady Porch, Share & Wow Wednesday - A Turtle's Life For Me, Cast Party Wednesday - Lady Behind the Curtain, Wednesday Wowsers - Oopsey Daisy THURSDAY Sweet Treats Thursday - Something Swanky, It's a Keeper - Everyday Tastes, Things I've Done Thursday - Bear Rabb it Bear, Tastetastic Thursday - A Little Nosh, One Stop Thursday Party - Digital Scrapbooking Made Easy Full Plate Thursday - Miz Helen's Country Cottage, Chic & Crafty Thursdays - The Frugal Girls, Crazy Cute Thursdays - Between U & Me, Taking A Timeout Thursday - Mom On Timeout FRIDAY Sweet Tooth Friday - Alli-n-Son, I'm Lovin' It - Tidy Mom, Fusion Friday - Jennifer Cooks, Friday Favorites - Simply Sweet Home, Friday Flair - Whipperberry, Feature Friday - Blissful and Domestic, 4th Friday Finale - Over The Big Moon, Delicately Constucted Fridays - Delicate Construction, Shine On Friday - One Artsy Mama,Feature Friday Free-For-All - Five Days...5 Ways, Weekend Potluck - The Country Cook, Kitchen Fun and Crafty Friday - Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons SATURDAY Seasonal Inspiration - Crumbs and Chaos, Strut Your Stuff Saturday - Six Sister's Stuff, Show and Tell Saturdays - Be Different Act Normal, Sweets For a Saturday - Sweet As Sugar Cookies, Tip Junkie, Everybody's Creative Endeavor - Every Creative En deavor, Tip Junkie, Once Upon A Weekend - Family Ever After, Weekend Wrap Up Party - Tatertots and Jello, Sweet Saturday - The Gingerbread Blog

(Crockpot) Pork Chops with Mushroom Sauce

2012-02-15T15:37:00.001-06:00

Imagine coming home from the hospital with something simmer in the crockpot for dinner...that is exactly what happened last September when we arrived home with Bennett. My mother-in-law had put dinner in the crockpot when she was here watching our other son. I have since made this recipe several times and have always enjoyed it. Crock pots are awesome and I seldom have a crock pot recipe that doesn't turn out. Enjoy this one on a cold winter day!

(Crockpot) Pork Chops with Mushroom Sauce

by Emily {Crumbs and Chaos}

Keywords: slow-cooker entree mushrooms pork

Ingredients

4-6 boneless pork chops
1 can mushroom soup
3/4 cup white wine
1- 4oz. can sliced mushrooms
2 Tablespoons quick cooking tapioca
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 beef bouillon granules or 1 beef bouillon cube
1/4 teaspoon minced garlic
3/4 teaspoon dried thyme, optional

Instructions

Place pork chops in slow cooker.

Combine remaining ingredients and pour over pork chops.

Cook on low for 8-10 hours.

Serve over rice or noodles.

This recipe may to linked to these fabulous parties: SUNDAY Sharing Sundays - Everyday Sisters,Sweet Indulgences Sunday - A Well Seasoned Life, Church Supper - Everyday Mom's Meals, Weekend Warrior Party - Ask Anna Moseley MONDAY Melt In Your Mouth Monday - Make Ahead Meals for Busy Moms, Made By You Monday - Skip To My Lou, Mingle Monday - Add A Pinch, Makin' You Crave Monday - Mrs. Happy Homemaker, Must Try Mondays - My Favorite Finds,Snap, Craft & Blog til Your Heart's Content - A Content Housewife , More the Merrier Monday - DIY Home Sweet Home, Mix It Up Monday - Flour Me With Love , Monday Link Party - Polish the Stars, Mop It Up Mondays - I Should Be Mopping the Floor TUESDAY Tasty Tuesday - Nap Time Creations, Totally Tasty Tuesday - Mandy's Recipe Box, Tuesday Time Out - Reasons to Skip the Housework, Tuesday Talent Show - Chef in Training, Crazy Sweet Tueasday - Crazy For Crust, Tasty Tuesday - 33 Shades of Green, Totally Inspired Tuesdays - The Inspired Collection, Trick or Treat Tuesdays - Inside BruCrew Life WEDNESDAY These Chicks Cooked - This Chick Cooks, Recipe Linky - Newlyweds Blog, What I Whipped Up Wednesday - Sugar and Dots, Mrs. Fox's Sweet Party - Mrs. Fox's Sweet s, Link It Up Wednesday - Junk In Their Trunk, Rock n' Share Party - The Shady Porch, Share & Wow Wednesday - A Turtle's Life For Me, Cast Party Wednesday - Lady Behind the Curtain, Wednesday Wowsers - Oopsey Daisy THURSDAY Sweet Treats Thursday - Something Swanky, It's a Keeper - Everyday Tastes, Things I've Done Thursday - Bear Rabb it Bear, Tastetastic Thursday - A Little Nosh, One Stop Thursday Party - Digital Scrapbooking Made Easy Full Plate Thursday - Miz Helen's Country Cottage, Chic & Crafty Thursdays - The Frugal Girls, Crazy Cute Thursdays - Between U & Me, Taking A Timeout Thursday - Mom On Timeout FRIDAY Sweet Tooth Friday - Alli-n-Son, I'm Lovin' It - Tidy Mom, Fusion Friday - Jane Deere Blog, Friday Favorites - Simply Sweet Home, Friday Flair - Whipperberry, Feature Friday - Blissful and Domestic, 4th Friday Finale - Over The Big Moon, Delicately Constucted Fridays - Delicate Construction, Shine On Friday - One Artsy Mama,Feature Friday Free-For-All - Five Days...5 Ways, Weekend Potluck - The Country Cook, Kitchen Fun and Crafty Friday - Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons SATURDAY Seasonal Inspiration - Crumbs and Chaos, Strut Your Stuff Saturday - Six Sister's Stuff, Show and Tell Saturdays - Be Different Act Normal, Sweets For a Saturday - Sweet As Sugar Cookies, Tip Junkie, Everybody's Creative Endeavor - Every Creative En deavor, Tip Junkie, Once Upon A Weekend - Family Ever After, Weekend Wrap Up Party - Tatertots and Jello

Sweetheart Cupcakes

2012-02-14T09:50:00.001-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day! If you are looking for a delicious and easy treat for your special love then try these. I took these to a Valentine's dinner last Friday night and they were a big hit. You could really do any combo of brownies, cake and frosting. Make them your own! I used jumbo cupcake papers so it made 24 but the original recipe calls for regular cupcake papers so you would yield 48 cupcakes. I will list the directions for the 48 cupcakes. The only difference is the baking time is longer for bigger cupcakes.

Sweetheart Cupcakes

by Emily {Crumbs and Chaos}

Keywords: dessert chocolate cake brownies/bars

Ingredients (48 cupcakes)

1 brownie mix
2 eggs
1/2 cup canola oil
1/4 cup water
1 Strawberry cake mix
2 Tablespoons canola oil
1 1/3 cup water
3 egg whites

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line muffin pan with cupcake papers

Whisk together brownie mix, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup canola oil, and 1/4 cup water. Stir until just combined and set aside.

Mix cake mix with 2 Tablespoons canola oil, 1 1/3 cup water and 3 egg whites. Use electric mixer on low until combined and then medium for about 2 minutes.

Spoon the brownie mix into the cupcake papers until 1/3 full. Spoon the cake mix over the brownie mix until 2/3 full.

Bake about 20 minutes or until tops are lightly browned.

Top with your favorite frosting!

Recipe from I {heart} to stamp.

This recipe may to linked to these fabulous parties: SUNDAY Sharing Sundays - Everyday Sisters,Sweet Indulgences Sunday - A Well Seasoned Life, Church Supper - Everyday Mom's Meals, Weekend Warrior Party - Ask Anna Moseley MONDAY Melt In Your Mouth Monday - Make Ahead Meals for Busy Moms, Made By You Monday - Skip To My Lou, Mingle Monday - Add A Pinch, Makin' You Crave Monday - Mrs. Happy Homemaker, Must Try Mondays - My Favorite Finds,Snap, Craft & Blog til Your Heart's Content - A Content Housewife , More the Merrier Monday - DIY Home Sweet Home, Mix It Up Monday - Flour Me With Love , Monday Link Party - Polish the Stars, Mop It Up Mondays - I Should Be Mopping the Floor TUESDAY Tasty Tuesday - Nap Time Creations, Totally Tasty Tuesday - Mandy's Recipe Box, Tuesday Time Out - Reasons to Skip the Housework, Tuesday Talent Show - Chef in Training, Crazy Sweet Tueasday - Crazy For Crust, Tasty Tuesday - 33 Shades of Green, Totally Inspired Tuesdays - The Inspired Collection, Trick or Treat Tuesdays - Inside BruCrew Life WEDNESDAY These Chicks Cooked - This Chick Cooks, Recipe Linky - Newlyweds Blog, What I Whipped Up Wednesday - Sugar and Dots, Mrs. Fox's Sweet Party - Mrs. Fox's Sweet s, Link It Up Wednesday - Junk In Their Trunk, Rock n' Share Party - The Shady Porch, Share & Wow Wednesday - A Turtle's Life For Me, Cast Party Wednesday - Lady Behind the Curtain, Wednesday Wowsers - Oopsey Daisy THURSDAY Sweet Treats Thursday - Something Swanky, It's a Keeper - Everyday Tastes, Things I've Done Thursday - Bear Rabb it Bear, Tastetastic Thursday - A Little Nosh, One Stop Thursday Party - Digital Scrapbooking Made Easy Full Plate Thursday - Miz Helen's Country Cottage, Chic & Crafty Thursdays - The Frugal Girls, Crazy Cute Thursdays - Between U & Me, Taking A Timeout Thursday - Mom On Timeout FRIDAY Sweet Tooth Friday - Alli-n-Son, I'm Lovin' It - Tidy Mom, Fusion Friday - Jane Deere Blog, Friday Favorites - Simply Sweet Home, Friday Flair - Whipperberry, Feature Friday - Blissful and Domestic, 4th Friday Finale - Over The Big Moon, Delicately Constucted Fridays - Delicate Construction, Shine On Friday - One Artsy Mama,Feature Friday Free-For-All - Five Days...5 Ways, Weekend Potluck - The Country Cook, Kitchen Fun and Crafty Friday - Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons SATURDAY Seasonal Inspiration - Crumbs and Chaos, Strut Your Stuff Saturday - Six Sister's Stuff, Show and Tell Saturdays - Be Different Act Normal, Sweets For a Saturday - Sweet As Sugar Cookies, Tip Junkie, Everybody's Creative Endeavor - Every Creative En deavor, Tip Junkie, Once Upon A Weekend - Family Ever After, Weekend Wrap Up Party - Tatertots and Jello

SRC: Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars

2012-02-13T11:00:00.000-06:00

It's time once again for Secret Recipe Club. A club where you are assigned a blog and 'secretly' make or bake something from that blog and post about it with other bloggers on a given day.

This month I had the blog, Little Bit of Everything. Julie is a midwesterner, like myself, and enjoys cooking and baking, also like myself. There were a lot of delicious options on her blog, but I settled on cheesecake bars. All the goodness of cheesecake without the fussiness of the springform pan. Did I mention they are topped with toffee bits? So delicious!

Creme Brulee Cheesecake Bars

by Becca {Crumbs and Chaos}

Keywords: dessert cream cheese brownies/bars

Ingredients

1 pouch (1 lb. 1.5 oz.) Betty Crocker SUGAR COOKIE MIX
1 box (4 serving size) FRENCH VANILLA PUDDING MIX
2 Tablespoons PACKED BROWN SUGAR
1/2 cup BUTTER, melted
2 1/2 teaspoons VANILLA
2 EGGS plus 3 EGG YOLKS
2 (8 oz.) blocks CREAM CHEESE, softened
1/2 cup SOUR CREAM
1/2 cup SUGAR
2/3 cup TOFFEE BITS, finely crushed

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°. Line a 9x13 baking pan with foil and lightly grease with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, combine cookie mix, pudding mix, brown sugar, melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla and 1 whole egg until soft dough forms. Press dough into bottom and 1/2 inch up the sides of the pan.

In a medium bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), beat together cream cheese, sour cream and sugar on medium speed until smooth. Add remaining whole egg, the 3 egg yolks and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla; beat until smooth. Spread over crust layer.

Bake 30-35 minutes or until set in center. Immediately sprinkle with crushed toffee bits. (I crushed mine in the food processor.) Cool for 30 minutes.

Refrigerate for 3 hours until well chilled. Remove from pan by pulling up on foil, cut into pieces. Store in refrigerator.

Recipe Source: Little Bit of Everything

This recipe may to linked to these fabulous parties: SUNDAY Sharing Sundays - Everyday Sisters,Sweet Indulgences Sunday - A Well Seasoned Life, Church Supper - Everyday Mom's Meals, Weekend Warrior Party - Ask Anna Moseley, Sunday Scoop - I Heart Naptime, Nifty Thrifty Sunday - Nifty Thrifty Things MONDAY Melt In Your Mouth Monday - Make Ahead Meals for Busy Moms, Made By You Monday - Skip To My Lou, Mingle Monday - Add A Pinch, Makin' You Crave Monday - Mrs. Happy Homemaker, Must Try Mondays - My Favorite Finds,Snap, Craft & Blog til Your Heart's Content - A Content Housewife , More the Merrier Monday - DIY Home Sweet Home, Mix It Up Monday - Flour Me With Love , Monday Link Party - Polish the Stars, Mop It Up Mondays - I Should Be Mopping the Floor TUESDAY Tasty Tuesday - Nap Time Creations, Totally Tasty Tuesday - Mandy's Recipe Box, Tuesday Time Out - Reasons to Skip the Housework, Tuesday Talent Show - Chef in Training, Crazy Sweet Tueasday - Crazy For Crust, Tasty Tuesday - 33 Shades of Green, Totally Inspired Tuesdays - The Inspired Collection, Trick or Treat Tuesdays - Inside BruCrew Life WEDNESDAY These Chicks Cooked - This Chick Cooks, Recipe Linky - Newlyweds Blog, What I Whipped Up Wednesday - Sugar and Dots, Mrs. Fox's Sweet Party - Mrs. Fox's Sweet s, Link It Up Wednesday - Junk In Their Trunk, Rock n' Share Party - The Shady Porch, Share & Wow Wednesday - A Turtle's Life For Me, Cast Party Wednesday - Lady Behind the Curtain, Wednesday Wowsers - Oopsey Daisy, From Dream to Reality - The DIY Dreamer THURSDAY Sweet Treats Thursday - Something Swanky, It's a Keeper - Everyday Tastes, Things I've Done Thursday - Bear Rabb it Bear, Tastetastic Thursday - A Little Nosh, One Stop Thursday Party - Digital Scrapbooking Made Easy Full Plate Thursday - Miz Helen's Country Cottage, Chic & Crafty Thursdays - The Frugal Girls, Crazy Cute Thursdays - Between U & Me, Taking A Timeout Thursday - Mom On Timeout FRIDAY Sweet Tooth Friday - Alli-n-Son, I'm Lovin' It - Tidy Mom, Fusion Friday - Jennifer Cooks, Friday Favorites - Simply Sweet Home, Friday Flair - Whipperberry, Feature Friday - Blissful and Domestic, 4th Friday Finale - Over The Big Moon, Delicately Constucted Fridays - Delicate Construction, Shine On Friday - One Artsy Mama,Feature Friday Free-For-All - Five Days...5 Ways, Weekend Potluck - The Country Cook, Kitchen Fun and Crafty Friday - Kitchen Fun with My 3 Sons, Dwell on Friday - Dwell on Joy SATURDAY Seasonal Inspiration - Crumbs and Chaos, Strut Your Stuff Saturday - Six Sister's Stuff, Show and Tell Saturdays - Be Different Act Normal, Sweets For a Saturday - Sweet As Sugar Cookies, Tip Junkie, Everybody's Creative Endeavor - Every Creative En deavor, Tip Junkie, Once Upon A Weekend - Family Ever After, Weekend Wrap Up Party - Tatertots and Jello