The Life of a Mother...

Caramel, Pretzel, Chocolat Chip Cookies

2011-11-08T11:30:00.000-08:00

I stumbled across this recipe over at yourhomebasemom.blogspot.com. They are so good. The sweet and salty compliment each other very nicely :0)

INGREDIENTS FOR 3 DOZEN:
1 C. Butter Flavored Shortening or Butter
¾ C. White Sugar
¾ C. Brown Sugar
2 Eggs
2 tsp. Vanilla
2¼ C. Flour
1 tsp. Baking Soda
1 tsp. Salt
1 C. Milk Chocolate Chips
1 C. Caramel Bits
½ C. Broken Pretzel Pieces
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In your mixer cream together shortening/butter with brown sugar and white sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and beat until combine. Add in vanilla. Add flour, baking soda and salt and stir until combined. Do not over mix. Add in chocolate chips, caramel bits and pretzels. Drop by spoonful onto a prepared cookie sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until light brown. Cool on sheet for five minutes and then move to a wire rack.

The best pork ribs EVER!

2011-07-31T19:01:00.000-07:00

2 racks of Pork Ribs...(I am sure that you can use the same recipes for beef ribs).

Cut ribs in half and marinate overnight in mixture of
3 parts Apple Juice to 1 part Apple Cider Vinegar

In a small bowl, combine the following
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1 1/4 teaspoons liquid smoke flavoring
2 teaspoons white wine
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
measurements are approximate...

Preheat oven to 300 degrees
Cut each full rack of ribs in half, so that you have 4 half racks. Sprinkle salt and pepper (more pepper than salt), and top with the above mixture. Wrap each half rack in aluminum foil. Bake for 2 1/2 hours.
Cool and unwrap.. grill on BBQ with favorite BBQ Sauce..

Homemade BBQ sauce that is so good!
2 1/4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup minced onion
1 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup tomato paste (or more if needed for thickness)
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
1 1/4 teaspoons liquid smoke flavoring
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dark molasses
1/2 tablespoon ground red chili pepper

Yummy Brownie Pudding

2011-07-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

You are going to love this. It is so good. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla icecream.

Brownie Pudding
INGREDIENTS FOR 6 SERVINGS:
½ Lb. Unsalted Butter, Plus Extra for Buttering The Dish
4 Extra-Large Eggs, at Room Temperature
2 C. Sugar
¾ C. Good Cocoa Powder
½ C. All-Purpose Flour
Seeds Scraped from 1 Vanilla Bean
1 Tbs. Framboise Liqueur, Optional
Vanilla Ice Cream, for Serving
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly butter a 2-quart (9 by 12 by 2-inch) oval baking dish. Melt the ½ pound of butter and set aside to cool. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the eggs and sugar on medium-high speed for 5 to 10 minutes, until very thick and light yellow. Meanwhile, sift the cocoa powder and flour together and set aside. When the egg and sugar mixture is ready, reduce the speed to low and add the vanilla seeds, framboise, if using, and the cocoa powder and flour mixture. Mix only until combined. With mixer still on low, slowly pour in the cooled butter and mix again just until combined. Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared dish and place it in a larger baking pan. Add enough of the hottest tap water to the pan to come halfway up the side of the dish and bake for exactly 1 hour. A cake tester inserted 2 inches from the side will come out 3/4 clean. The center will appear very under-baked; this dessert is between a brownie and a pudding.
Allow to cool and serve with vanilla ice cream.
COMMENTS: When I made this I used 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract and ½ tsp. Almond Extract instead of the vanilla bean and framboise liqueur.

Barefoot Contessa's

2011-07-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

Homemade Granola Bars
Store bought granola bars are loaded with so much junk, I never buy them. Oh, and they can be spendy for the loads of preservatives and high fructose corn syrup. So, i went of a search for a recipe that would satisfy me. This recipe is so good. Some of my kids do not appreciate them as much as I do, but this was only my first trial. Next time I will leave out some of the fruit and add chocolate chips. I doubled the recipe and put half in the freezer. With school right around the corner, I can use all the ideas that I can get. Enjoy!!

Homemade Granola bars
INGREDIENTS FOR 12-16 BARS:
2 C. old Fashioned Oatmeal
1 C. Sliced Almonds
1 C. Shredded Coconut, Loosely Packed
1/2 C. Toasted Wheat Germ
3 Tbs. Butter
2/3 C. Honey
1/4 C. Light Brown Sugar, Lightly Packed
1 1/2 tsp. Pure Vanilla Extract
1/2 C. Chopped Dates
1/2 C. Chopped Dried Apples
1/2 C. Dried Cranberries
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Butter an 8 by 12-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper.
Toss the oatmeal, almonds, and coconut together on a sheet pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and stir in the wheat germ. Reduce the oven temperature to 300 degrees F.
Place the butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook and stir for a minute, then pour over the toasted oatmeal mixture. Add the dates, apricots, and cranberries and stir well. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Wet your fingers and lightly press the mixture evenly into the pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until light golden brown. Cool for at least 2 to 3 hours before cutting into squares. Serve at room temperature.

Wild West Sizzlin' Chicken Tacos

2011-07-14T11:33:00.000-07:00

Here is a new recipe from Betty Crocker. This is a recipe that sounded a little strange, but one thing that I have learned about cooking is that sometimes 'different' ingredients go well together. These little Bad Boys had great reviews from everyone in my family. AND, they are so easy to prepare and there is not a huge mess in the kitchen.

Wild West Sizzlin’ Chicken Tacos
INGREDIENTS FOR 4 SERVINGS:
2 C. Cooked Chicken Strips
½ tsp. Ground Cumin
½ tsp. Ground Paprika
4 Stand ‘N Stuff Taco Shells
1 Medium Red Bell Pepper, Cut Into Thin Strips
1 C. BBQ Baked Beans
1 C. Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
4 Slices Bacon, Crispy Cooked, Crumbled
INSTRUCTIONS:
Heat oven to 400°F. In small bowl, toss chicken strips with cumin and paprika to coat. In 8-inch square (2-quart) glass baking dish, stand taco shells side by side.
Fill each shell evenly with seasoned chicken. Divide pepper strips evenly over chicken. Top each with 1/4 cup baked beans and 1/4 cup cheese. Sprinkle with bacon. Bake 8 minutes or until thoroughly heated and cheese is melted. If desired, garnish with grape tomatoes.

Roasted Shrimp Cocktail

2011-06-14T16:21:00.000-07:00

I made this last night for dinner. It is from the Barfoot Contessa's cookbook Back to Basics. I can tell that we are going to have a lasting relationship. I adjusted the sauce a bit to my liking. It has a kick and the way that she had it, there was a little to much horseradish for my liking. ENJOY!

Roasted Shrimp Cocktail
INGREDIENTS FOR 6-8 SERVINGS;
For the Shrimp:
2 Lbs. Shrimp
1 Tbs. Good Olive Oil
½ tsp. Kosher Salt
½ tsp. Fresh Ground Black Pepper
For the Sauce:
½ C. Chili Sauce
½ C. Ketchup
1 ½ Tbs. Horseradish
2 tsp. Fresh Lemon juice
½ tsp. Worcestershire Sauce
¼ tsp. Tabasco Sauce
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on. Place them on a sheet pan with olive oil, salt, and pepper and spread them in one layer. Roast for 8 to 10 minutes, just until pink and firm and cooked through. Set aside to cool.
For the sauce combine all ingredients and mix well. Serve as a dip with the shrimp.

Barefoot Contessa

2011-06-14T15:51:00.000-07:00

It's summer!! My kidos have been participating in our libraries summer reading program. So, we have been to the library weekly. While we were there, I picked up a few cookbooks to check out. I hate buying cookbooks that I have not previewed first. I have bought several only to sit on my shelf and never to be used because they were not my style. Well, I have been very impressed with these cookbooks. Everything that I have made out of them so far have been great. Just thought I would share in case you were looking for a new cookbook.

Granola

2011-06-10T08:40:00.000-07:00

Last night I made granola for this morning. There is nothing like yogurt, fresh berries and homemade granola. All of my kidos liked it, which is always a big accomplishment. Granola is very easy to make and you can freeze it so it will stay fresh. Here are a few of my recipes.

Best Granola
INGREDIENTS:
1 Box Zoom Hot Cereal
8 C. Old Fashion Oats
2 C. Brown sugar
2 tsp. Salt
Mix all together in a large bowl.
Mix together in a separate bowl:
1 ¼ C. Oil
1 ¼ C. Water
5 tsp. Vanilla
Pour over oat mixture. Place on two large cookie sheets. Bake for 2 hrs at 250. Stir every ½ hour and rotate baking racks. Note: For this recipe you can substitute honey for the brown sugar. However, add the honey with the wet ingredients before mixing with the oat mixture.
After baking add slivered almonds, craisins, raisins or what ever other creation you can come up with!

Homemade Granola
INGREDIENTS FOR 4 POUNDS:
7 C. Rolled Oats
2 C. Almonds
1 C. Sesame Seeds
2/3 C. Canola Oil
2/3 C. Brown Sugar
½ C. Maple Syrup
¼ -1/3 C. Honey
¼ C. Shelled Sunflower Seeds
¼ C. pumpkin Seeds
2 tsp. Sea Salt
4 tsp. Vanilla Extract
2 C. Dried Fruit and/or 1 C. Coconut Flakes (Optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Combine all dry ingredients in large bowl. In a saucepan combine sugars, honey, salt, oil, and vanilla extract. Cook until sugar and salt are melted. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and mix thoroughly. Heat oven to 375. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Pour onto baking sheets and spread until evenly distributed. Depending on the level of tastiness, bake for 20 to 35 minutes or up to 40 minutes; checking often until you achieve the color that you want. Stir once or twice and rotate positions. If adding fruit, add when it comes out of the oven or during the last 5 minutes. Let cool completely. Serve over yogurt and fresh berries or fruit.

The Art of Biscuits

2011-06-09T09:13:00.000-07:00

Up until about the last year, I would just assume to buy the store bought biscuits sold in a tube. Homemade biscuits can be so dried out. Well, now I make my biscuits. I have found that I would rather just cut them into squares with a pizza cutter instead of cutting them with a round cutter. Here are a few recipes that I have tried that have been yummy!

This recipe is like the flaky biscuts that you can buy at the grocery store, only better and with out all of the preservatives that you find in premade food. I looks more complicated than it is.
Flaky Biscuits
INGREDEINTS FOR 10-12 SERVINGS:
2 ½ C. Flour
1 Tbs. Baking Powder
½ tsp. Baking Soda
1 tsp. Salt
2 Tbs. Shortening
1 ¼ C. Cold Buttermilk
8 Tbs. Unsalted Butter, Cut into 1/8 –inch Slices
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 450. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. Add shortening to flour mixture in ½ inch chunks. Mix using your fingers until only pea sized pieces remain. Add all but 2 Tbs. of buttermilk to flour mixture and mix with fork. Add remaining buttermilk if needed. Dough should be sticky, but come off sides of bowl. Spray work surface and rolling pin with nonstick spray. If you continually sprinkle flour over the work area and rolling pin, you will add too much flour to the dough. Transfer dough onto center of prepared work surface and form dough into a ball. Pat down into a 10-inch square, then use a rolling pin to roll into an 18 X 14 inch rectangle. Think about how to fold a business letter into thirds to fit into an envelope. Thinking of the dough as a letter, place butter slices on center of third of dough. Using a scraper to pull the dough up, fold the bottom third onto the center third and then place butter slices on it. Next, fold the top third down. Rotate 90 degrees and repeat the folding and butter placement. You should end up with a lumpy rectangle that is about 6 by 4 inches. Place dough in freezer for 15 minutes. Remove from freezer. Roll dough into 10-inch square about ½ inch thick. Cut dough into 3-inch squares using a pizza cutter. Transfer squares to an ungreased baking sheet placing 1-inch apart. Brush biscuit tops with melted butter. Bake until the tops are golden, about 15 minutes.
COMMENTS: This recipe came from the Black Bear Inn in Tahoe, Ca.

This recipe is very easy.
Cream Biscuits
INGREDIENTS FOR 1 DOZEN:
2 C. Flour
1 tsp. Salt
1 Tbs. Baking Powder
2 tsp. Sugar
1 to 1 ½ C. Heavy Cream
1/3 C. Butter, Melted
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 425. Use an un-greased baking sheet. Combine flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir in dry ingredients with a fork to blend and lighten. Slowly add 1 cup of cream to the mixture, stirring constantly. Gather the dough together, when it holds together and feels tender, it is ready to knead. If the dough seems shaggy and pieces are dry and falling away then slowly add enough additional cream to make the dough hold together, Place the dough on a lightly floured board and knead for 1 minute. Pat the dough into a square that about 1 inch thick. Cut into 12 squares and dip each into the melted butter (or just brush the tops). Place the biscuits 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the biscuits are lightly brown. Serve hot with jam.

Warm Cherry Cobbler

2011-06-04T22:02:00.001-07:00

We had Cherry Cobbler tonight for dessert and it just hit the spot. We had it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I found it on allrecipes.com.
Enjoy!!

Cherry Cobbler
INGREDEINTS FOR 8 SERVINGS:
3 Tbs. Butter, Melted
1 ¾ C. Sugar, Divided
1 C. Flour
1 Tbs. Cornstarch
¼ tsp. Salt
1 C. Boiling Water
1 tsp. Baking Powder
3 ½ C. Fresh Cherries, Pitted
½ C. Milk
INSTRUCTIONS:
Mix ¾ C. sugar, butter, flour, salt, baking powder, and milk together. Place cherries in the bottom of a 9-inch square pan. Spread dough over cherries. In a small bowl, combine 1 C. sugar and cornstarch; stir in boiling water. Pour mixture over the dough. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes. Serve warm.

Cherry Ammond Muffins

2011-06-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

So yesterday, I was up to my 'pits' with cherries. Some friends invited us over to pick cherries. My kidos loved it. The older ones love to climb the tree and get the high ones. We picked about 10 pounds. I went and bought a cherry pitter and it works wonders. I made two batches for Cherry preserves and I am going to make more. It turned out so yummy. I highly recommend it. Meanwhile, I went on the Internet to find some cherry recipes. I went to Taste of Home and found this muffin recipe. It was so yummy and it has been added to my collection of recipes. Hope you enjoy it.
Cherry Almond Muffins
By Melissa Maseda
INGREDIENTS FOR 7 SERVINGS:
1 ¾ C. Flour
½ C. Plus 1 Tbs. Sugar
½ tsp. Baking Powder
½ tsp. Baking Soda
¼ tsp. Salt
½ C. Cold Butter
1 Egg
¾ C. Sour Cream
1 tsp. Almond Extract
Topping:
1/3 C. Flour
2 Tbs. Sugar
2 Tbs. Cold Butter
1/3 C. Chopped Sliced Almonds
Filling:
8 oz. Cream Cheese, Softened
1 Egg
¼ C. Sugar
½ tsp. Vanilla Extract
¾ C. Cherry Preserves, Warmed
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Beat the egg, sour cream and almond extract until smooth; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened (batter will be thick).
For the topping, combine flour and sugar in a small bowl; cut in butter until crumbly. Stir in almonds; set aside. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, egg, sugar and vanilla until smooth. In a saucepan over low heat, warm preserves. Fill grease jumbo muffin cups half full with batter. Divide cream cheese filling and preserves evenly between muffin cups; swirl gently. Cover with remaining batter. Sprinkle with topping. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until muffins test done. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks. Makes 7 jumbo muffins or 14 regular muffins.

Pure YUMMY!

2011-05-23T20:59:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Country Fried Steak. This recipe is the best that I have ever had.

Country Fried Steak With White Gravy
INGREDIENTS FOR 4 SERVINGS:
1 C. Plus 1 ½ Tbs. Flour
3 tsp. Creole Seasoning
1 Egg
1 to 3 C. Milk, As Needed
4 (6-8oz.) Cube Steak
1 ½ tsp. Salt
1 tsp. Ground Black Pepper
Canola Oil, For Frying, As Needed
½ C. Minced Yellow Onion
INSTRUCTIONS:
Combine 1 C. flour with 1tsp. Creole Seasoning in a ziplock bag. Whisk the egg, ½ C. milk, and 1 tsp. Creole Seasoning in a shallow bowl. Season the steaks all over with 1 ¼ tsp. salt and ½ tsp. pepper. Dredge the meat in the seasoned flour, then dip in the egg wash, letting the excess drip off, and then dredge in the flour a final time. Set steaks on a tray. Place ½ C oil in a large pan. Heat until it is hot but not smoking. Carefully add the steaks and fry until golden, 3 minutes per side. Transfer them to paper towels to drain. Add remaining steaks to the pan, and cook in the same manner. Add the 1 ½ Tbs. flour to the pan and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute. Add the onion and cook stirring often, until softened, about 3 minutes. Whisk in 1 ½ C. of the milk, the remaining 1 tsp. Creole Seasoning, remaining ¼ tsp salt, and the remaining ½ tsp. pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 to 6 minutes, until the sauce had thickened and there is no raw flour taste. Add additional milk as necessary to achieve the desired consistency. Serve steaks with the hot gravy and mashed potatoes.
COMMENTS: for homemade Creole Seasoning combine 2 ½ Tbs. Paprika, 2 Tbs. Salt, 2 Tbs. Garlic Powder, 1 Tbs. Pepper, 1 Tbs. Onion Powder, 1 Tbs. Cayenne Pepper,1 Tbs. Dried Oregano, 1 Tbs. Dried Thyme. Makes 2/3 cups.

2011-05-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

The Father's and Son's camp out is one weekend that our whole family looks forward to. the boy's camp and the girl's have a girl's only night. We always have fun. I really love the time that I get alone with my girls'. I stumbled across a link when I was browsing Homemaking Honeys. So, I thought that my girls would have fun making these.

You can find the Instructions at http://the-wilson-world.blogspot.com/2011/03/rainbow-waffles.html These would be great for St. Patrick's day as well.

Taco Chili

2011-05-17T10:03:00.000-07:00

Today, in sunny California, it is not so sunny. It is cold and this day in May feels like a day in February. I wish the cold would fly away and not come back for a long time. I am ready for the heat! In the meantime, I can still make this yummy chili that is so easy. The first time that I had this, I was at a Releif Society meeting at church. It will help warm up up on this cold rainy day!

Taco Chili
INGREDIENTS:
1 Lb. Lean Ground Turkey
½ Yellow Onion, Diced
1 ½ C. Chopped Celery
15 oz. Can of Tomato Sauce
1 Small Can Diced Green Chilies
1 or 2- 15 oz. Cans of Sliced Stewed Tomatoes
4 -16 oz. Cans of Beans (2 kidney, 1 white, 1 pinto)
1 Packet Mild Taco Seasoning
1 Packet of Hidden Valley Ranch Salad Dressing Mix
½ tsp. of Cumin
16 oz. Bag of Frozen White Corn
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a skillet or large frying pan, brown the turkey. At half way through add the onions and celery, then transfer into a large stew pot. On medium high heat add one by one the remaining ingredients. Do not drain anything, just dump them in. Heat thoroughly on low heat for 30-40 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips or crunchy tostados, shredder cheddar cheese, sour cream, and sliced avocados.
COMMENTS: This makes a huge pot. WW point value is 1 per Cup.

What's for Dinner

2011-05-15T17:06:00.000-07:00

I often get asked about what I am making for dinner. Well, tonight I am making Beef Style Carnitas. Thought I might share.

Carnita-Style Beef With Roasted Peppers and Onions
INGREDIENTS FOR 8 SERVINGS:
2 Boneless Chuck Roasts (2 – 3 lbs. Each)
6 Tbs. Olive Oil, Divided
2 Tbs. plus 2 tsp. Cumin, Divided
Salt and Pepper
2 Cans (4.5 oz.) Chopped Green Chilies
¼ C. Chili Powder
2 tsp. Dried Oregano
8 Large Garlic Cloves, Minced
1 Qt. Chicken Broth
2 Large Onions, Cut into wedges
3 Large Multicolor Bell peppers, Cut into Stripes
24 Medium Flour Tortillas
1 Container of Sour Cream
Fresh Cilantro
3 Limes, Cut into Wedges
INSTRUCTIONS:
Adjust oven racks to lowest and middle positions and heat oven to 450 degrees. Heat a large heavy roasting pan over two burners on low heat. Meanwhile, place roasts in a large bowl, coat with 2 Tbs. oil, and season with 2 Tbs. Cumin and a generous sprinkling of salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, mix chilies, chili powder, remaining 2 tsp. cumin, and oregano. A few minutes before searing, increase heat to a strong medium high heat until wisps of smoke start to rise from pan. Add roast and sear, turning only once, until both sides form an impressive brown crust, about 8 minutes total. Transfer roast to a plate,; set aside. Add garlic to pan and cook, stirring, until fragrant and golden, about 30 seconds. Add chili mixture and cook, stirring to intensify flavor, another 30 seconds. Add chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and return roast and any juices on plate to pan. Using two potholders to protect hands, place a sheet of heavy duty foil over pan, pressing down on foil so that it touches roasts. Seal foil around edges and repeat with second sheet of foil to seal completely. Continue cooking on medium high heat until juices bubble. Set pan on middle oven rack and cook for a total of 1 hour and 45 minutes. Meanwhile, about 30 minutes before roasts are done, toss onions and peppers with remaining ¼ cup oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Spread on baking sheet, place on bottom oven rack, cook until crisp – tender, about 30 minutes. When roasts a re done, remove from oven, cool and shred meat into bite-size pieces. Set peppers, onions and meat aside, covered in a warm place, while you cook the tortillas. You can microwave the tortillas, but it is good to oven steam them. Lower oven temperature to 350 degrees. Lay a damp paper towel on a 24 x 18 inch piece of foil. Set 2 stacks of 4 flour tortillas each side by side on towel. Cover with another damp paper towel and seal foil completely. Make 2 more packages in same manner. Warm in oven until steamy, about 5 minutes. Place meat, peppers, and onions on a platter and serve with warm tortillas, bowls of sour cream, cilantro sprigs, and lime wedges. Also can serve with Guacamole.

German Chocolate Cheesecake

2011-05-15T16:58:00.000-07:00

When I was young, my grandmother made me German Chocolat Cake every year for my birthday. Yesterday, we had a 9 year old birthday boy who loves German Chocolate Cheesecake. I also love cheesecake, probally becasue it is not healthy for my figure. This recipe is the best of both worlds. Enjoy!

German Chocolate Cheesecake
INGREDIENTS FOR 16 SERVINGS:
1 Pkg. (18-1/4 ounces) German Chocolate Cake Mix
Ingredients for cake
2 Pkg. Cream Cheese (8 ounces)
1 ½ C. Sugar
4 Eggs
1 Container Coconut Pecan Frosting
INSTRUCTIONS:
Prepare cake batter according to directions; set aside. In a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, beat on low speed just until combined. Pour half of the cake batter into a greased 9 x 13 baking dish. Gently pour cream cheese mixture over batter. Gently spoon remaining batter over top; spread to edge of pan. Bake at 325 for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour. Frost cooled cake. Refrigerate leftovers.
Comments: I used the Betty Crocker German Chocolate cake mix that has added pudding.

Kitchen Remodel

2011-05-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

I know that I am so slow at getting pictures up of the work that we had done of our kitchen, But here they are. I love my new kitchen!!
**I am missing some of the kitchen, but you get the picture. I probally had dishes on the counter when I took the picture or I was cooking something. Anything is possible in this Maseda household.

Easter Story Cookies

2011-04-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

To be made the evening before Easter
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup whole pecans
1 teaspoon vinegar
3 egg whites
pinch salt
1 cup white sugar
zipper baggie
wooden spoon
tape
Bible

Preheat oven to 300. Place pecans in zipper baggies and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested He was beaten by the Roman soldiers. Read John 19:1-3.

Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 teaspoon vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross he was given vinegar to drink. Read John 19:28-30.

Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life. Read John 10:10-11.

Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin. Read Luke 23:27.

So far the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 cup sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him. Read Ps. 34:8 and John 3:16.

Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus. Read Isa.1:18 and John 3:1-3.

Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid. Read Matt. 27:57-60.

Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF. Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed. Read Matt. 27:65-66.

GO TO BED! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in there overnight. Jesus' followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed. Read John 16:20 and 22.

On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty. Read Matt. 28:1-9

Resurrection Buns

2011-04-18T18:37:00.000-07:00

INGREDIENTS:
¼ cup sugar
1 Tbsp. flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 (8 oz.) cans crescent rolls
16 large marshmallows
¼ cup butter, melted & cooled
2 Tbsp. sugar
¼ tsp. cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS: Preheat oven to 375 and spray 16 muffin cups with nonstick cooking spray. (Don’t line with cupcake papers – it won’t work.) In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup sugar, flour and 1 tsp. cinnamon; mix well and set aside. Separate dough into 16 triangles. Dip 1 marshmallow in melted butter and roll in sugar mixture. Place marshmallow on shortest side of triangle. Roll up starting at shortest side of triangle and rolling to opposite point, completely covering marshmallow with dough; firmly pinch edges to seal. Dip 1 end in remaining butter; place buttered side down in sprayed muffin cup. Repeat with remaining marshmallows. In small bowl, combine 2 Tbsp. sugar and ¼ tsp. cinnamon. Sprinkle each roll with this mixture. Bake at 375 for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. (Place foil or cookie sheet on rack below muffin cups to catch spills). Remove from oven; cool 1 minute. Remove rolls from muffin cups and place on wire racks to cool. Makes 16 sweet rolls.

Here are the representations you can tell as you make these: Explain that the spices represent the spices used to anoint Jesus’ body before His burial. The marshmallow represents Jesus and His purity and sinless life. Pinching the dough around the marshmallow represents closing the tomb. As you sprinkle the spice mixture on top talk about the sweet taste of the spices and how Jesus gave us the sweetest gift we will ever receive. After the rolls have cooled and you bit into them, you will be surprised to find the center empty. The marshmallow has melted. The ‘tomb’ is empty and He is not here for He is risen. Happy Easter!

Laura Bush's Cowboy Cookies

2011-04-13T21:57:00.000-07:00

I first had these cookies at Christmas. They are now one of my favorite cookies. I can't keep them in the cookie jar because I will eat them ALL!

Laura Bush's Cowboy Cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1-1/2 cups butter (at room temperature)
1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
1-1/2 cups packed light-brown sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
2 cups sweetened flake coconut
2 cups chopped pecans

Preheat oven to 350 F. Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in bowl. In 8-quart bowl, beat butter on medium speed until smooth and creamy, 1 minute. Gradually beat in sugars; beat to combine, 2 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each. Beat in vanilla extract. Stir in flour mixture until just combined. Add chocolate chips, oats, coconut and pecans. For each cookie, drop 1/4 cup dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing 3 inches apart. Bake for 17 to 19 minutes, until edges are lightly browned; rotate sheets halfway through. Remove cookies from rack to cool. Makes about 3 dozen cookies. NOTE: For 6 dozen (72) smaller cookies, use 2 tablespoons dough for each. Bake at 350 F for 15 to 18 minutes. Note: As seen on "Good Morning America."

My Favorite Sandwich in the the WORLD!

2011-04-11T12:24:00.000-07:00

When I was pregnant with my first child, I ate way to many of these sandwiches. I just love them. Eleven years later, I am still eating them and still love them. There is no real recipe but here is what goes on them.

Turkey Croissant Sandwich
INGREDIENTS:
Croissant
Delli Turkey
Swiss Cheese
Slices Tomato
Sliced Avacado
Green Leaf Lettuce
Alfalfa Sprouts
Mayo and Honey Mustard to you liking.
INSTRUCTIONS:
Cut open the croissant and add Mayo and Honey Mustard.
Top with turkey, swiss cheese, tomato,avacado, lettuce and plenty of alfalfa sprouts. Enjoy!

Blue Cheese Chopped Salad

2011-04-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

I went to the Outback Steak House with some family a few months ago. I had this yummy chopped salad. I was so good I craved it for days. (Not such a bad thing to crave a good salad, RIGHT?) I came home and went searching online to see if I could find a recipe like it. I made this recipe and it was pretty close. I just love a good salad recipe. I think that it is something that I am known for, though I think that the way I like salad is not as healthy as it could be but it is still salad! ENJOY.
Blue Cheese Chopped Salad
INGREDIENTS:
Candied Cinnamon Pecans:
1/3 C. Pecans Sliced-Lengthwise
½ tsp. Cinnamon
1 Tbs. Dark Brown Sugar
1 ½ tsp. Butter, Melted
Salad:
3 C. Chopped Butter or Bibb Lettuce
3 C. Chopped Red Leaf Lettuce
3 C. Chopped Iceberg Lettuce
1 Green Onion, Chopped
Blue Cheese Vinaigrette Dressing:
¼ C. Olive Oil
¼ C. White Wine Vinegar
¼ tsp. Balsamic Vinegar
2 tsp. Dijon Mustard
2 Tbs. Sour Cream
2 Tbs. Honey
1 Tbs. Chopped Fresh Basil
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, To Taste
½ C. Crumbled Blue Cheese
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 375. Slice each pecan half into at least three lengthwise pieces. Combine the cinnamon and brown sugar.Toss the pecans with the melted butter, then with the cinnamon/sugar mixture, making sure to coat them all evenly. Put the nuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, until sugar is caramelized. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and slide the pecans off of the parchment to cool. Chop all of the lettuce into small bite-sized pieces; and rinse them with cool water. Slice the green onion. Whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients. Place the chopped lettuce into a serving bowl large enough to allow you to toss the salad. Add the vinaigrette and toss thoroughly. Sprinkle with the chopped onion. Break the cooled pecan slices apart and sprinkle them over the salad. Enjoy!

121 FUN SAYINGS FOR SIMPLE GIFTS

2010-12-16T22:03:00.000-08:00

I found these on the internet and thought that they were cute!! I wanted to share them for anyone who hasn't stumbled accross them.

121 FUN SAYINGS FOR SIMPLE GIFTSBrandie Valenzuela
All of the following are cute little sayings I have compiled, that go with a particular gift item. Do just one item for a simple gift, OR consider putting together a basket of several items and attach their saying to each item.
Any sweet treat: "Wishing you a season filled with sweetness!"
A plate of cookies: "Wishing you a wonderful Christmas, from your "crummy" neighbors.
Barq's Root Beer: "Have a wonderful Christmas, it shows you're "Barqing" up the right tree!"
Any soda: "We're "soda-lighted" to wish you a Merry Christmas!"
Popcorn: "We just "popped" in to wish you a Merry Christmas!"
Loaf of bread: "For being there when you were "kneaded", for "rising" to the occasion, large or small. For never "loafing" on the job, for helping others "heel" with TLC. No matter how you "slice" it, you do a terrific job loving others."
Bananas: "If we could choose our friends, and we searched the whole world through, we'd go "bananas" trying to find a better "bunch" than you!"
Bear Shaped Honey: "Hoping our "honey" of a friend has a "beary" Merry Christmas".
Microwave Popcorn and 2-liter of soda: "Pop, pop, fizz, fizz, oh what a good friend you is!"
Mug with Hot Chocolate Mix: "To our special friends so dear, wishing you a cup of cheer."
Eggnog: "Have an "udderly moovalous" holiday!"
Ice Cream: "Have a cool yule!"
Hershey's Kisses in a Wire Wisk: "We "whisk" you a merry "kiss" mas.
Paper Towels: "Blot out your troubles, "absorb" the Christmas spirit!"
Candle: "Hope your Christmas is full of light"
Pencil and notepad: "Hope your Christmas is something to write home about!"
Matches: "To our matchless friends"
Bubble Gum or Bubble Bath: "May your holidays "bubble" over with fun!"
7Up: "7 Up ideas for a wonderful holiday season" (include 7 uplifting thoughts/ideas)
Sprite: "May your Christmas be Merry and "Sprite"!"
Rootbeer: "We're "rooting" for you to have a Happy Holiday Season!"
Any Pop: "We're "soda-lighted" to have you as our friends!"
Popcorn: "We're "popping" by with a holiday HI!"
Chocolate Covered Cherries: "Wishing you a very "cherry" Christmas"
Mints: "We "mint" to wish you a Merry Christmas"
Snickers Candy Bar: "Don't "snicker" - just be glad you got something!"
Cookie Dough - "Here's a little extra "dough" for Christmas"
Jar of Jam: "Hoping your Christmas is "jam" packed with cheer"
Veggies & Dip: "Dip into the holidays and a healthy New Year!"
Pasta: Have a "pasta-tively" happy holiday!"
Muffins or Muffin Mix: "You're gettin' "muffin" for Christmas!"
Grater & Cheese: "To a "grate" neighbor"
Seasoning Mix: "Seasoned with love - Happy Holidays!"
Any Sweet Treat: "Wishing you a season full of sweetness!"
Whisk Broom: "Take a break, From a Busy Day, and Sweep All Your Cares Away!"
Basket of Bath Items: "When you feel like a basket case, take a break...and slow your pace"
Basket of Rolls and Honey Bear: "Have a honey of a Christmas"
Hershey's Kisses: "Merry "Kiss"mas"
Bath oils, bubbles, salts: "The holidays can be a strain on our body and brain, so when you feel stressed, a hot bath is best, it truly will help keep you sane!"
Soup mix: You're "souper" - Merry Christmas"
Wooden spoon w/ favorite drink or baking mix: "Not a creature was "stirring"..."
Oven Mitt filled w/ treats: "We have to ad-"mitt" you're a great neighbor!"
Frozen cookie dough w/ cookie cutters: "Bake up some Christmas cheer!"
Apple Cider w/wassail mix: "Spice Up Your Christmas!"
Bag/Box of Whoppers: "Hope you have a "whopper" of a Christmas"
M&M's: Have a Merry and Most Wonderful Holiday Season!"
Frozen or Ready-To-Bake Pizza: "Warm up to a wonderful holiday season "topped" with Christmas cheer!"
Apples and Hershey's Hugs: A teacher can't live by apples alone...she needs hugs too!"
Popcorn Balls: "Hoping you have a "ball" this Christmas season"
Jolly Ranchers: "Have a holly "jolly" Christmas"
Chex Party Mix: "Remember Santa "chex" his list twice to see who's been naughty or nice...so be good for goodness sake!!!
Box of Hostess Ho-Ho's:" Hope a merry "Ho-Ho-Ho" fills your heart the whole year through!"
Jar of Jelly: "Jelly is like love -- you can't spread it around without getting some on yourself!"
Christmas Tray: "We "tray"sure your friendship!"
Bell: "With each chime of this festive bell, may a Christmas wish come true, and bring you peace and happiness to last the whole year through!"
Yule Log: "We send you warm greetings this Christmas seasoning"
Potpourri: "May this weet scent bring back thoughts of warm Christmasses long ago!"
Cleaners: "You add sparkle and make our life brighter!"
Nuts: "We're nuts about you!"
Lifesavers: "You've been a life saver!"
Juice pitcher filled with candy canes: "We pitcher you raising a little "cane" during the holidays"
Broom or Feather Duster: "You're "dust" the finest neighbors we know!"
Measuring Cup or Spoons: "Wishing you a joy beyond "measure"!"
Star ornament: "Remember the reason for the season!"
Chocolate Mousse Mix: "Merry Christmousse to our "deer" friends!"
Wooden Spoon: "Whether stirring up cakes, cookies, soups or souffles; You'll find this sppon useful in so many ways. But whatever it's use, it says, "Merry Christmas from us to you!"
Flower: "If friends were flowers, we'd pick you!"
Heart Ornament: "May the joy and love you give away, come back to you on Christmas Day"
Cinnamon Sugar for toast: "May your Christmas be sprinkled with laughter and love!"
Christmas music: "May the sweet song of Christmas make your heart rejoice!"
Filled Basket: "Wishing you a basket full of Christmas blessings"
Salsa: "Add a little spice to your holidays"
Stocking or Filled Jar: "Have a fun filled Christmas this year!"
Candle: "May your days be happy, your heart be light, your Christmas merry and the New Year bright!!!"
Calendar: "Keep Christmas in your heart the whole year through!"
Sugar Cookies: "Rolling out a batch of Christmas cheer, for someone we think is very dear!"
Cherry 7-Up: "Just a little Christmas cheer from Happy Hearts this time of year!"
Sparkling Cider: "Wising you a sparkling hoilday season!"
Warm casserole or bread: "Bundled up with warm wishes"
Eggbeater: "Have an "eggstra" special holiday!"
Pie: "Wishing you a scrupmtuous Christmas"
Oranges: " Orange" you glad we're Friends!?" Merry Christmas!!
Chocolate Orange: "Orange" you glad it's Christmas? Hope your Christmas is a Sweet one!
Ice Cream Snowballs and Hot Fudge: "Here's some packaged"snowball" treats - Just Drizzle Hot Fudge and its ready to eat!...Enjoy!!"
Box of Light Bulbs: "Have a bright and radiant Christmas"
Anything Santa: "Ho - Ho - Hoping your Christmas is Heavenly!"
Anything Angel: "Hoping you have a Heavenly Christmas!!"
Gingerbread House: "Nibble, Nibble like a mouse, We hope you'll nibble at this house!" Merry Christmas!!
Mugs with Hot Chocolate Mix: "To our special friends who are so Dear, We wish you all a cup of Cheer!"
Cocoa Mix: "Wishing you a warm and wonderful Christmas!"
Gum: "By Gum, You're a great Neighbor!! "Have a Merry Christmas"
Christmas Shaped pasta: "Have a Pasta-tively Happy Holiday!"
Jar of Jam: "Hoping you have a Holiday "Jammed" packed with fun!!" "Have a "Berry" nice holiday season!!" Or "Hoping your Christmas is "Jam-packed" with Christmas Cheer!!"
Homemade Frozen Rolls - "Here's a little holiday treat. Rise and bake, it can't be beat! Warm fresh rolls just for you. Top with butter that's all you do! Warm Holiday Greetings to you"
Brownie Mix (or other mix): "Whip up this mix for a wonderful holiday fix! Wishing you a "rich" Holiday Season!!" (Attatch the recipe!)
Homemade carmels: Hoping you have a "Rich" and "wonderful" Holiday!!"
Pie: "Just a "Holiday Hi" and a tasty Pie!! Happy Holidays!!"
Divinity: "May your Christmas be "Devine" and your Holidays so Fine! Sweet Christmas Wishes!"
Rice Krispie Treats: "Snap, Crackle, Pop" We think You're really Tops!"
Toffee or Brittle: "Any way you break it, We think you're the greatest!"
Fudge: "Fudge" a little on the calories and enjoy the Holiday Season!"
Cheese Ball and Crackers: "We don't mean to sound "Cheesey", we just hope you have a "Ball" this Holiday Season! Or "Spread a little Christmas Cheer this Holiday Season!"
Apple Anything (pie, cobbler, crisp, muffins etc.): "Sending you a "Bushel" of love this holiday Season!!" Or " You are the apple of my eye, Teacher!"
Banana Bread: "Banana Bread just for you, because you have so much to do... We also love you a whole "Bunch" too! Merry Christmas!"
Cinnamon Rolls: "Here's a sweet treat "Rolled" up with warm Holiday Wishes! Merry Christmas!"
Homemade Chocolates: "You're so sweet...having you as neighbors is really a treat! Have a Heavenly Holiday Season!"
Cake or Cupcakes: "You take the "Cake" neighbor, We think you're first rate! Happy Holidays to you!!"
Cornbread or Mix: "We're not trying to be "Corny" we just want you to have Merry Christmas!"
Carrot Cake: " I Really "Carrot" alot about you!! Merry Christmas"
Spiced Drink Mixes: "Hoping your Holidays are "Spiced" Just right!"
Recipe: "Just like you friend...it's tried and true, just for you! Happy Holiday Baking or Merry Christmas Cooking!"
Pizza - "Hope your Holiday has a touch of "Pizza - z!!" Merry Christmas!!"
Crayons and Coloring Book: Hope your Holidays are Colorful!
Plant: "The kindness you showmakes our friendship grow and grow! Hope you have a Happy Holiday!!"
Stuffed animal: "Pawsing" to wish you a Merry Christmas!"
Donuts: "Donut" you know we love you??? Have a happy Holiday!!"
Tree shaped pasta, tree shaped container or a small Christmas tree: "Hope your Christmas is "tree-mendous"!"
Payday candy bar: "It's the "nutty" time of the year again, so please don't lose your cool! Relax, and much this little treat and have a happy yule!"
Squeeze-It Juice drink & a Hershey's Kiss: "Here's a "squeeze and a "kiss", to remind you you're loved all through the year!"
Salsa & Tortilla Chips: "Have a hot and spicy Christmas!"
Scouring pad/sponge: "I scoured the earth for a friend like you!"

CHEX PUMPKIN PIE CRUNCH

2010-12-07T17:13:00.000-08:00

Everyone loves Chex Mix of at least one kind or another. I have liked every Chex Mix recipe that I have tried. Here is the latest one that we tried.

Pumpkin Pie Crunch
INGREDIENTS FOR 16 SERVINGS:
¼ C. Brown Sugar
1 Tbs. Pumpkin Pie Spice
¼ C. Butter
2 tsp. Vanilla
2 C. Cinnamon Chex cereal
2 C. Wheat Chex cereal
2 C. Honey Nut Chex® cereal
8 oz Pecans
INSTRUCTIONS:
In small bowl, mix brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice; set aside. In small microwave-safe dish, microwave butter on High about 30 seconds or until melted. Stir in vanilla. In large microwavable bowl, mix all cereals and pecans. Pour butter mixture over cereal mixture, stirring until evenly distributed. Add sugar and spice mixture and stir until coated.
Microwave uncovered on High 5 minutes or until mixture begins to brown, stirring every minute. Spread on wax paper or a cookie sheet to cool. Store in airtight container.

This recipe came from the Chex Website

Pumpkin Pancakes with Cinnamon Brown Butter

2010-12-02T11:00:00.000-08:00

We tried these out for breakfast this morning. Can I just say - Delightful!!! I already have a pumpkin pancake recipe and waffle recipe. However, this recipe replaces them all. They were so yummy!

Pumpkin Pancakes with Cinnamon Brown Butter
INGREDIENTS FOR 14 PANCAKES:
½ C. Butter, Cubed
¼ C. Maple Syrup
½ tsp. Ground Cinnamon
¼ tsp. Ground Nutmeg
½ C. Chopped Pecans, Toasted
1½ C. Flour
2 Tbs. Packed Brown Sugar
2 tsp. Baking Powder
1 tsp. Salt
2 Eggs
1 1/3 C. Milk
¾ C. Canned Pumpkin
½ C. Ricotta Cheese
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a small heavy saucepan, cook butter over medium heat for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Add the maple syrup, cinnamon and nutmeg. Remove from the heat.
In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, pumpkin and cheese. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened.
Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto a greased hot griddle; turn when bubbles form on top. Cook until the second side is golden brown. Serve with brown butter. Top with maple syrup and Pecans.
COMMENTS: This recipe came from the Nov. Taste of Home.