The Sweet & Simple Sisters

Simple Lasagna

2013-01-23T20:49:00.002-08:00

Lasagna is one of my favorite dishes that I make a few times throughout the year when I have the time.

It's one of those dishes that can warm up a cold house during the winter months.

Recipe List

1 - box of lasagna noodles

3 - jars of spaghetti sauce

3 cups - shredded mozzarella cheese

1 pkg of Italian sausage or ground hamburger

1 - 18 oz container of ricotta cheese or cottage cheese

1 - egg

1 - tablespoon of dry parsley

1 - teaspoon of nutmeg

In a medium bowl mix together ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, dry parsley and nutmeg.

In a cooking pan lightly brown sliced sausage on both sides and add to spaghetti sauce.

In greased glass pan spread 2 1/2 cups of sauce on the bottom of pan.

lay down noodles to cover first layer and spread with half the ricotta mixture.

Sprinkle with shredded cheese and spread with two cups of sauce and sausage.

Repeat one more time to complete lasagna.

Cover with foil and place in pre-heated oven at 350

Cook for one hour or until the noodles are tender.

When fully cooked remove foil sprinkle with the remainder of cheese and cook for 15 minutes for cheese to melt.

Rugelach & Red Velvet Cookies

2012-11-26T12:48:00.002-08:00

Rugelach Cookies

Dough

11/2 cups - all-purpose flour

1/4 tsp. - salt

1/2 cup - sugar

1/3 - butter soften

1 - egg

Inside Mixture

1/4 cup - sugar

3 tbs - melted butter

1 cup - semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup - chopped walnuts

1/2 cup - dried cranberries

raspberry spread

In a bowl combine flour and salt and set aside. In another bowl beat together sugar and butter on medium speed until fluffy now include egg until blended. Slowly add flour mixture until dough is firm.

Cut dough in half and roll out into two rectangle shapes. It is easier if you roll between wax paper.

For the inside mix together sugar, melted butter, chocolate chips, walnuts and cranberries.

Before sprinkling the mixture over top of dough, spread raspberry preserved spread or jam, then top with mixture.

Very carefully roll starting from the ends with wax paper to make a round pinwheel.

As you see below in the picture.

Cut a few inches apart and place on a greased cookie sheet.

If you like sprinkle with some of the mixture on top of the cookie.

Bake for 10 to 14 mins at 350.

Red Velvet Crinkles

1 - box of red velvet cake mix

1/2 cup - vegetable oil

2 - eggs

1 tsp. - vanilla

1/2 cup - powder sugar

Pre-heat oven to 350

In a bowl mix together cake mix, oil, eggs and vanilla.

Once done make small round balls out of the dough and roll in powder sugar.

Place the balls on a cookie sheet a few inches apart and place in oven for around 10 mins. for baking.

Easy Pumpkin Bars

2012-10-10T18:08:00.000-07:00

The recipe is so easy that you don't have to do much to put it together.

For one you only need three ingredients and a can of cream cheese frosting.

EASY PUMPKIN BARS

1 - Box of spice cake mix

1- 4 oz package of pumpkin Jello pudding

2 - Cups of milk

Frosting

1 - Can of cream cheese frosting

Heat oven to 350

Grease a 13x13 cookie sheet that has edges

one hint: line the cookie sheet with wax paper and spray with non-stick spray.

It makes it easy to remove the baked bars from pan.

Mix together 2 cups of milk with the 4 oz pumpkin jello package.

Make sure not to beat or make into pudding, you want a water like mixture.

Add the box of spice cake mix until well blended.

Pour the batter mixture on the pan and spread out evenly.

Yes, it will cover the whole pan. It does not look like it at first.

Place in oven at 350 and bake for 20-30 minutes until it is lightly brown or a tooth pick comes out clean.

Spread on frosting after the cake is completely cooled and cut into square.

Happy Baking,

R.C. Givens

Doing Disneyland With Fibromyalgia or Chronic Pain

2012-09-28T21:51:00.001-07:00

Yes, it is possible for one not to want to do Disneyland when they have a chronic illness and even cringe at the thought of pain they might suffer during that visit. But I am here to tell you that it is okay. Since the time my daughter was born, I knew that one day I would have to visit that magic kingdom all kids love. I'd hope later then sooner in my mind.

As the years went on my daughter choose a big birthday party instead of Disneyland. Until this year, even I myself felt a little bad that we did not take her sooner then her 8th birthday. But with that in mind I would like to share my experience and helpful hints that might ease the anxiety and thoughts of pain before your visit.

I started planning this trip a few months back before her birthday, so I could look at the best options and cost for our family. We decided since it was her 8th birthday and first time visit. We would make it a family vacation for a few days. Our choice was to go through Southern California AAA travel agency. We are members and they have good discounts on hotels and tickets. Plus if you book months in advance you can make payment installments and have the trip paid in full before the time comes. Our package included 4 days/3 nights stay and two day hopper passes for each person in our party. After looking at all the hotels and weighing the pros's and con's we picked California Grand Hotel, which is on the property of California Adventure theme park. Yes, it is on the pricey side, but with their own entrance access from the hotel to California Adventure and easy access to downtown Disney that is closer to the parks made it a good fit. Not to mention when you are tired you can retreat back to your room to rest. I also requested for a room close to the elevator. Since they only have three in the hotel of the 600 guest rooms making some rooms a far hike. Below are pics of the hotel and room for ideas on how it looks.

Middle of hotel lobby

Hotel's front entrance

Our room (The bed and pillows were very comfy.)

With the hotel booked and out of the way, I was able to focus on how I would manage my fatigue and pain during this trip. What came up was I needed a plan that would help me to enjoy this time with my family without worrying about my illness. So my solution was to rent a mobile scooter for the day well at the theme parks. When I looked into the cost for a one day rental through Disneyland parks it was $50.00 to rent plus $20.00 for deposit that you would get back at the end of your visit making it a total of $70.00. Keep in mind you could not use these mobile scooters outside of the parks. With a help of a friend I was referred to Deckert Surgical supply. Their rentals were $40.00 a day and they delivered the scooter to your hotel at no extra cost or security deposit. We went with Deckert I was very pleased with there service and they delivered the scooter whatever time I needed it and picked it back up the next day. Let me tell you at first I worried what other people might think since I look perfectly healthy on the outside. But I was glad I rented it, because at the end of the day my body was thanking me for not over doing it.

Hotel entrance from Down Town Disney

Part of Down Town Disney

Cars land area in California Adventure

I also planned on what I might bring in case I needed extra care during the trip. I packed instant ice packs, pain meds, comfy clothes and shoes. Since we were splurging on hotel and mobile scooter rental we had to look at cutting cost when it came to extra spending money. The hotel rooms came with little mini refrigerators. One of our cost cutting was food, I packed items like cereal, bananas, grapes, Horizon 1% milk boxes that didn't need to be refrigerated, peanut butter, bread, juices, water and tons of snacks that would last those few days we where their. I even made sandwiches ahead of time packed in the cooler for the drive so we would not have to stop for lunch. Each day we would take snacks and water into the parks with us in a backpack. The supplies came in handy and kept our food expense cost down when we were not eating out.

I think what helped the most during this trip was not sweating the small stuff. It is a vacation and it does not matter what time you get out the door or when you'll do lunch or dinner. We played everything by ear when it came to having fun. When we got burnt out at the parks we headed back to the room for some much needed R&R by hanging out at the pool area and grounds. It also helps to be honest with the ones you are traveling with to let them know in advance, if I am not doing to well during our stay please don't take it personal when I want to take a break and rest. Me and my spouse got great quality time with our daughter when the other needed a break. Which helped to keep us both happy. I have to say in the end this trip ended up being the best trips I ever took to Disneyland in my life.

A few words of encouragement

Traveling alone can make a person stressed and having a chronic illness adds pressure. So keep in mind think happy thoughts and meditate on what helps you get through the day. Everything does not have to be prefect and enjoy the time you have. For me it was getting up early and having quite time to pray before my family woke up. Giving me extra peace and calmness to help me focus on the day ahead. I write this to inspire others with chronic pain or illness that it is possible to overcome the impossible when it comes to travel. Life is to short not to enjoy it and take chances even when you don't feel you can do it.

Happy Travels

R.C. Givens

San Diego Spots to Visit

2012-08-16T13:36:00.001-07:00

All my life I have lived in "Sunny San Diego" home to many great historic sites and sports.

With so much to do, you can never get bored here!

Summer always gives us a great opportunity to explore and enjoy what this city has to offer.

From the restaurant's, farmers markets, to just plan out door fun you have a lot to choose from.

Follow along as I share some of our favorite spots.

First on the list historic Balboa Park, this ones our favorite places to check out on Sunday's after church.

We love to walk around the pond area and check out the art work.

One of the coolest things we like to do is head over to Whole foods to pick up sandwich's before we get to the park.

Looking for great desserts, hop on over to Extraordinary Desserts off of 5th in downtown San Diego.

This place has a great selection of homemade desserts and tea's. They even carry gluten free items.

Next up Coronado Island, close to down town San Diego. Two ways to get there is the ferry boat taxi or drive straight over the bridge.

The Island has great things to see and good food choices for a romantic evening.

Surround by the beach and bay you will enjoy the beauty and sites.

The hotel Del is a must for all that visit San Diego it sits right on the beach with cute little shops and restaurant's with in the hotel. We like to visit Spreckels Sweets & Treats known as the candy shop.

My favorite item there is the dark sea salt chocolate, yes I do have to say it's good.

Our final adventure is Liberty Station located in the heart of Point Loma.

There you can find small shops, a few restaurant's and Wine Steals.

Love this place Con Pane Rustic Breads & Cafe. They have the best sandwiches.

And across the way you will find Shelter Island that is right on the bay.

Here's a list of other great spots to visit:

Seaport Village

Historic Old Town

La Jolla Cove

Point Loma Lighthouse

Del Mar Beaches

Sea World

Zoo

Lego Land

Planning a trip do San Diego and have questions regarding a place.

I will be happy to answer those questions.

Email me at rgc2310@gmail.com

Happy Travels

"50th" Birthday 70's, 80's & 90's Old School Theme

2012-08-06T21:25:00.001-07:00

Planning my Brother's "50th" old school party was one of the funniest parties I got to work on in awhile.

The invites is what set the tone for this party, being that he was turning "50" he wanted to incorporate his favorite thing music. I purchased postcard invites through vista print on-line, which they make it easy to upload graphics and design what you want. Vista print has great sales you just have to look for them. These invites cost around $40.00 dollars, which included return envelopes and RSVP cards that I also made.

I was the lucky one in charge of the invites, decor and some baking.

As some know all that I love to do on a budget. I have to say I did spend a little more on this party then I normally do. But I still got some great deals and ideas that didn't cost much.

The centerpieces where made with styrofoam rounds, black & gold tissue paper, pre-cut music notes and glitter. I also hand made the little records in the middle with black and gold paper using a gold paint pin to write. The Reserved table signs where left over invites.

This cute sign I purchased at Party City for $9.99. They now sell different style of signs with lettering included.

Keeping it simple over the cake table I used music notes and crepe paper streamers.

Now for the fun part, photo booths is the new rave for parties and weddings. They can be very costly if you have a company come in for the night. To bring some fun to the party I decided to create a photo back ground like the ones you might see back in the day when you where in high school. By making a balloon arch over the top and using a tall cardboard back drop covered with black paper and white table clothes for curtains. My brother had an old collection of LP covers from the late 70's & 80's that we used.

Next to the back drop we placed a card table with lots of fun stuff to put on. I made a sign above the table that said take an item and strike a pose. Please return back to the table when done.

He also hired a photographer for the night who took pictures during the party and at the photo area.

Which ended up being why cheaper then what the booth would of cost.

Let's just say people loved it and we got are money's worth.

Last but not least my brother wanted a cupcake display full of some outrages flavors.

All I have to say is thank goodness for my mom and sister who are the top baker's in the family. Displayed above was my pineapple delight, cherry cola & lemon drops cupcakes.

Which I will be posting recipes for on another post.

If you have questions on this post please email me at rgc2310@gmail.com or follow me on facebook at

The Sweet and Simple Sisters.

Thanks for checking me out.

4th of July Party Ideas

2012-06-26T22:59:00.003-07:00

Summer is here and it's the best time of the year to firer up that grill.

One of our favorite events is "4th of July" and each year we host a small get together with family.

To motivate those that like to make a special party to remember without the hard work and cost.

I have complied past, present and future party ideas for you.

Now a days its the cost of living that is effecting us the most when it comes to spending money.

When I am out and about I keep my eye out for things that will fit in my budget when it comes to parties.

I have a rule of thumb if you are hosting an event like backyard BBQ's, 4th of July or any other holiday.

You should not be in charge of all the work or cost.

Example: I will normally provide the meat, drinks and paper products and ask my guest if they would kindly bring a side dish, condiments or dessert to share.

Most of the time they are more willing to help out.

With that in mind lets get this party started!

Food

Ideas on food are to keep it simple, so you are able to enjoy your guest.

Here are some suggestions:

Baby back ribs, corn and bake potatoes all are a hit when it comes to a simple BBQ.

Host a build your own "Hot Dog Bar" it would not be 4th of July without hot dogs.

Grill hot dogs, hot links, or even polish sausages. Buy different assorted hot dog buns and use assorted toppings like relish, onions, jalapenos, shredded cheese, chili beans, bacon, tomatoes, the toppings are endless once you get to thinking what your crowd likes.

If you are a meat eater and having a very small group why not try cooking a tri-tip on the grill for tortas.

We love Morton's tri-tip from Costco. I put that bad boy on the grill about half hour before the guest arrive so I can let it simmer in a pan on the top level of the grill once I have seared both sides.

We serve it up with torta bread, you can use hamburger buns or any other roll if you like or tortillas.

Grill a few veggies, add some salsa on the side and call it a day.

Feeding a large crowd try cooking up chicken or a meat that will shred in a crockpot to make bbq sandwiches. It goes a long way and I find in the past that the cost is not that expensive.

I don't make any special sauce I just add a good quality bbq sauce from the store. Add the sauce once it starts cooking and buy an extra bottle to place out on the table for guest during serving time.

Make a coleslaw or grill onions and you are ready to go.

Let's Talk Drinks

I don't know about you but I find more soda cans and water bottles get wasted at parties.

I have started using beverage dispenser for all drinks at my parties.

Our guest favorite drinks at this time is cherry limeade, which I purchase at walmart for only .89 cent. I buy a few bottles. Use a beverage dispenser for water with fresh cut cucumbers or lemon slices.

I have also found that people love lemonade on a hot day. If you have to have soda I suggest liters, place a few out with the other items mention.

Decorations

Let's get to the fun part, you do not have to spend a lot of money to dress up a party.

Shop the dollar sections at target, dollar tree or walmart that carry specilty items at low cost during the holidays. Use old items with new for keeping cost down or borrow friends items to dress up your tables.

This candle holder was not much cost, I used an old spaghetti sauce jar , beads I already had and throw in the .99 cent necklaces for a 4th of July look.

This mason jar came in handy and everything in it was under a dollar.

If you have a farmers market in your town I suggest heading out to pick up some flowers. These flowers where only $4.00 I added items I found in the dollar section at target. Note I used a flag bandanna that I got at walmart for a $1.00 just gripped it together with a rubber band at the top of the glass jar tucking in the corners under the rubber band for the bubble effect.

Want to dress up your utensils just drop them in a pail or mason jar and add your own style.

Be sure to come back on Friday, I will be sharing some "4th of July" goodie ideas and recipes.
I can't wait to share them with you.

Happy Summer,
RC

Anna Banana Spice Cupcakes

2012-06-24T22:21:00.001-07:00

The next recipe in the "Summer Series" is inspired by an upcoming party that I will be baking for.

Ingredients

1 - box of spice cake mix

3 - medium ripe bananas

1 - cup of toasted chopped walnuts

Frosting

1 - tub of whip cream

1- 5 oz box of banana instant pudding

Banana chips

Caramel sauce

Pre-heat oven to 350

Line two cupcake pans with cupcake liners.

After following directions on cake box add the bananas cut up in square pieces to the mix and toasted chopped walnuts.

( If you have the question on how to toast walnuts. layer walnuts on a cookie sheet and place in boiler, making sure to toss with fork around until lightly brown. Don't leave in to long or they will burn.)

Using a 1/3 cup measure fill liners with the batter.

Place in oven for 18-24 mins depending how long your oven cooks or until you can insert a toothpick clean.

Will the cupcakes are in the oven put together frosting.

You want to make sure that your tub of whip cream is completely thawed out before mixing together with the instant banana pudding packet.

I normally use a 4 oz packet of pudding for any frosting, but they only come in 5 1/2 oz packages for banana flavor. Pour only about half the pudding into the whip cream and mix together. You can use your beater but I suggest on the lowest speed. The whip cream and pudding will become thick so don't get worried. Set aside in the fridge until cupcakes are ready.

After you have let the cupcakes completely cooled. Place frosting in a piping bag or ziploc bag using a large tip. I used a Ateco 866 tip for mine. Squeeze in the center a bit of frosting, you do not have to cover the whole cupcake for this and place a banana chip on top, add a drizzle of caramel and your done.

***Please note I was able to make 30 cupcakes with this recipe and the frosting only covers 24.
If you like more frosting just double the recipe when you make it.***

Keep in fridge if not serving right away.

Happy baking,
RC

Fruit Croissant Bake

2012-06-20T10:32:00.002-07:00

"Summer Easy Recipe Series"

This is one easy recipe with a few ingredients I think you will enjoy for breakfast or as a snack.

Ingredients

1- 8oz pkg of cream cheese (soften)

1 - can of refrigerated croissants

1 - cup of fresh strawberries

1 - cup of frozen blueberries

sugar

Pre-heat oven to 375

On a non-stick cookie sheet layer croissants slightly one on top of the other with the point part facing down.

Wash and cut strawberries in small pieces, add blueberries and mix with 2 table spoons of sugar.

In a medium bowl blend together with a fork soften cream cheese and 1/3 cup sugar until smooth.

Spread cream cheese mixture down the middle of croissants and top with fruit.

Crisscross dough over top of fruit and sprinkle with sugar.

Place in oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Let it cool off before serving.

Thanks for stopping by today & let me know how it turned out if you try it.

I am happy to announce that "The Sweet and Simple Sisters" is now on facebook.

Please click the link below to like and tell a friend!

https://www.facebook.com/TheSweetAndSimpleSisters

Thanks,

Graduation Party

2012-06-01T21:23:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks have been a busy one my friends.

But I have time to post now so I am not complaining.

I just finished up with my niece's college graduation party that came out fantastic.

I made pom poms to hang from the patio, graduation hat inserts for the flowers, a candy bar and 100 cookies.

I was thankful I did not have to do all the work.

Here's a peek of the pictures from the party.

The only regret was I wasn't able to get more pictures for this post.

Please note this beautiful sign was made by a good friend who is very talented.

Over the next few weeks I will be working on some great projects and ideas for 4th of July, a 50th birthday party, kids party ideas and even adding a weekly post on experiments of summer cooking with the kids.

I even want to start a linking up party on Thursday's for summer recipe ideas on new simple meals or a blast from the past with a twist.

Please leave a comment and let me know if your interested in the Thursday recipe party! Have a great week.

Inspiration Candle Holder

2012-05-21T20:42:00.000-07:00

I was inspired this Mother's day to make something special for the ones I love by a gift I received from my daughters teacher.

It was a beautiful candle holder out of a mason jar.

Supplies

Clear plain mason jars - (Walmart 12 dozen for around $6.00)

Painter pins - (Walmart for $1.98)

Jewels for bling

Rope twine - (that can be purchase at a craft or fabric store)

Sand or rocks (Walmart in candle section non-flammable only)

single candles

Glue gun for assembling

Before starting I rinsed and wiped down each mason jar.

With glue gun very carefully wrap rope around the rim of the jar until you run out of space.

Once done set aside so you can work on the flower part.

Below are pictures on how to assemble a flower with the rope by looping it together and using the glue gun each time to keep it in place. Be sure to not to press hard to avoid burning your fingers.

Once glued together, place a rhinestone jewel in middle.

Now attach to the top of the jar with a little glue.

The next part was a little tricky.

Due to the fact that you are writing on the glass and the paint is wet.

Hold jar by the bottom or top of the rim for best results and go in a circular motion when writing.

It's okay if you smug the letters because they can be wiped off if you act fast.

As soon as the paint is dry add sand or rock and place candle in middle.

If you are wondering what is written on the jars.

It was a special verse that was written for my sisters by me.

Sister,

You are a kind, compassionate, loving, wife, mother, friend and teacher.

Who is blessed by her gifts of mercy, grace and love.

You are a victorious, Proverbs 31 women with a heart of gold. -RC

Teacher Gifts

2012-05-10T22:23:00.001-07:00

I've been one busy mama this past week. All due to "Teacher Appreciation Week".

This is the only time of the year you can let your teacher know how special she or he is.

After looking at pinterest, I was inspired by the things I saw and decided to try out a few myself.

First up I wanted to surprise all the teachers in the school with a special door sign.

Only a few supplies needed for this easy no cost project as you can see below.

For my daughter's teacher and aide, I wanted to give a small token of appreciation each day.

This is just a few items that I sent and they where all under a buck.

By using, ribbon, stickers, and scraping materials around the house for dressing up little things like post its, gum and paper clips saved me money.

The next items that I did were for the final gifts to teachers and staff at the school.

Dress up a clip board with scrape book materials, stickers, and bling.

Whatever you could find will work.

The pictures below take you step by step.

Just trace, cut, glue and add your personal touch.

I even added a clothes pin clip with ribbon to hold pens.

The next one is simple and no hassle.

I purchased inexpensive colored picture frames at walmart and seashells.

All you need is a glue gun.

The last project did take some time to do, but I love the end result.

I like to call this one art bling!

You need a canvas, acrylic paint your choice of color, colored jewels, tacky glue and permanent paint pen.

The kids can get involved with this one.

I had my daughter do the painting.

Let paint dry and add a second coat if needed.

You want to make sure the canvas is completely dry before the next step.

With a paint pen trace the letter you want to use with a stencil.

I printed a free one from the Internet.

Use a paint brush to put the glue on the canvas where you want the jewels to go.

Just us a paint pen to write the saying you want.

These only cost me $5.00 each to make.

You can use the same idea on a glass jar.

Thanks for stopping by today!

First Holy Communion Party

2012-04-30T21:00:00.002-07:00

We recently celebrated my daughter's first holy communion.

My mission was to host a small get together for 20 on a budget.

The first on the list was invites. I picked these cute invites up at target on clearance for $13.99.

It always pays to shop around before ordering expensive ones.

I wanted to keep decorations to a minimum this time around. I decided to make flower pom poms with white sparkle tissue paper I picked up at party city for $1.99. I only used one package and pink curling ribbon for tying together. I used tape to tack each flower on the back to the wall to shape the cross.

Sticking to the white and pink theme. I found these cute pails at the dollar tree and flowers.

They where in the wedding section and came with three buckets, thank you cards and ribbon.

I picked up jewels, flowers and chocolate wrap candy for the inside.

I hot glued the white flowers around the rim half ways and made a cross out of jewels on the front.

I used pink tulle for the stuffer inside to hold up the candies and wrapped with clear baggies.

To help cut down on cost. I made cupcakes instead of buying a fancy cake and shaped them into a cross adding a personal touch with candy pearls, flowers, and cross.

But we were given a nice surprise from my mom. She made my little angel a cute doll cake.

I also made brownie cake pops (which you can find on an older post on how to make easy and cheap.), dipped chocolate strawberries and stuff to make ice cream sundaes.

As for food I made it easy by making meat trays for sandwiches with chips and my family pitched in with making side dishes. The day turn out to be one of the best get togethers with my family and friends.

DIY Felt Flower Hair Accessories & Pins

2012-04-07T11:09:00.000-07:00

I love do it yourself projects, but I like them to be easy without the extra fuss.

As we know flower accessories are a hit with little ones.

Have you noticed the price tag on these hair clips and pins?

That is why I decided to try my hand at making some.

Things you will need. Bright colored felt, hair clips or pin backers, ribbon, jewels and stretchy headbands.
Plus a glue gun or no sew glue.
Just to let you know I was able to purchase alot of my supplies for under a $1.00 at places like walmart, dollor store and target.

I made a cardboard paper pattern out of flowers I had around the house.

I used the cardboard flowers for tracing.

In the middle I placed hot glue to attach the felt cut outs together.

On the hair clips I cut ribbon for the top part of the clip and glued on.

Final step glued a jewel in the middle and a clip on the back.

I wanted to show the backs so you can see what a pin or clip looks like on back.

Here are some of my DIY creations.

These cute flowers can dress up an outfit.
I added a felt flower pin to a dress I only paid $9.00 for and a headband to match for my little one.

Sugar Cookie Surprise With Nutella Spread

2012-03-17T20:32:00.002-07:00

Did anyone say nutella? I was at a coffee house the other day and had this amazing cookie. Which we will call the Hazelnut tart cookie. Of course my wheels started a turning on how I could make a copy cat of this cookie. The first thing that popped to mind was a sugar cookie with nutella inside.
Wanting to make this simple I purchased a jar of nutella and a package of Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix.

Follow directions on the sugar cookie package. I do suggest though that you cut the butter down to 1/3 cup instead of the full 1/2 cup on the recipe. Due to the dough becoming to sticky and soft to work with. Add flour along the way to make stiff for rolling and cutting. It's time to assemble these easy cookies by rolling out the dough and cutting shapes. Using a square cookie cutter or round will do just fine. Make sure to cut even amount of squares. Spread 1 teaspoon of nutella on one and place another piece over to seal together. Gently press together around the edges to seal. They will come out looking like ravioli.

Place cookies on baking sheets and bake at 350 for 10 minutes or until they are lightly browned.

For extra appeal I added melted chocolate on top after the cookies cooled.

I have to say that these cookies turned out easy to make and tasted so good I couldn't just eat one.
Let me know if you try them out and what you think.

Dassant "Lemon Cake with Lemon Curd" Recipe

2012-03-01T20:43:00.000-08:00

I have a friend that loves lemon anything, and is always looking for a new baking opportunity for me to try.

She happen to come across a company that makes premium baking mixes that you can only buy on-line.

A few weeks ago a packaged arrived with six lemon cake boxes and straight out of the box I was handed a mix and a recipe to try from Dassant company.

What I like about this cake mix and recipe that it was simple.

Here is the recipe as follows

Cake

1 box of Dassant lemon cake mix

2 eggs

1 cup milk

1/2 cup vegetable oil

Topping

Store bought lemon curd

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

2 to 3 tablespoons of lemon juice

This recipe calls for a angel food cake pan, but I used a spring cake pan for the job.

Spray pan or lightly grease the pan with oil and set aside.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Combine eggs, milk and vegetable oil and add cake mix gently beating until smooth.

Pour batter into pan and bake for 30 to 45 minutes or until done.

Once cake is cool spread lemon curd over the top of cake.

In a bowl mix together powdered sugar with lemon juice with a hand held mixer on low.

Drizzle over the cake with a spoon or fork.

I have to say this recipe is one to try and keep.
My friend was very pleased with the outcome and is looking for a new recipe as we speak.

"Queen of Hearts" Valentines Goodies

2012-02-15T20:20:00.000-08:00

This Valentines day my wheels were turning with what I could make for my daughter's class without breaking the bank and it had to be easy. I came up with these adorable

"Queen of Hearts" goodie wands.

All you need is ding dongs, marshallow hearts, gummy hearts, icing hearts, sprinkles, melting chocolate, and candy sticks.

I always like to make things easy by having all items unwrapped and ready to go. Start by melting chocolate in a sauce pan or microwave. The chocolate is the glue for this project. As you can see above push heart marshallow half way down and add chocolate on top. Next step is to add the ding dong and gummy heart. Which you can see below, now time to add a little chocolate to glue the sugar hearts and the sprinkles that are on the marshallow hearts.

Wait until they dry before packaging in cello bags and ribbon. I made about 24 within 30 minutes and I loved the outcome in the end.

The next project on the list was candy cup treats for my co-workers. I was short on time and know I had items around the house that could be turned into a sweet treat for valentines day.

I had purchased bags of valentines candy before hand and needed a container to put them in. I happen to have these clear cups with lids on hand. I decided to make a candy cup stack with ribbon for extra cuteness. I used heart stickers to keep the ribbon in place on top and bottom. Just to let you know you can purchase these containers at walmart around $2.00 or $3.00 bucks.

Check out these cute bags that I bought to put granola and coconut for my daughters class party.

And to my surprise I received these yummy treats from one of the sweet & simple sisters themselves. My sister blessed me & my family with cookies dipped in chocolate, cake balls, brownies and more chocolate all homemade.

A Black & White Affair "40th" Birthday

2012-02-02T10:47:00.000-08:00

Party's are great, who doesn't enjoy a good party. But when you have to plan it and bring it all together its a little on the stressful side, especially if you are a perfectness and that would be me. I normally plan events months in advance in order to keep the stress level and cost down. Since I would be turning 40 I was on the fence on if I would be celebrating this mile stone. After great thought I decided why not you only turn 40 once. Only three weeks to plan and pull it all together, I had set myself on overdrive. Coming up with the theme was the first plan of action. I wanted it to be fun and elegant not funny like most decorations you see for over the hill party's. I thought I would like a black and white affair with a twist of elegance.

For me the invitations is what sets the tone for the decor. I am into damask and filigree prints right now, so incorporating them into the party theme was a must.

What also worked for me was the idea of a chocolate & champagne bar. My family loves dessert and for each party we love to add a dessert bar. My sister made these wonderful cake balls and whoopee pies, the flavors were red velvet, peanut butter and chocolate. A chocolate fountain with lots of dipping items like strawberries, marshallows, cookies, red vines, pretzels and an assortment of chocolates that I pick up.

The great pairing of almond champagne was the best. The champagne I got for $6.99 on sale for each bottle and the goodies I got for low cost at walmart. When you shop around it keeps the cost down.

At the entrance to the party I placed a memory jar. Where guest could write a memory of them and the birthday girl. I bought the dry erase board for $1.00 & notecards all at the dollar store.

Above I used an old push pin board to make a frame back ground for pictures. I hot glued black wide ribbon around the edges and printed damask paper off the internet for the back ground. Only costing me the cost of the ribbon at $1.99.

As for the center pieces a great friend of mine made them only at the cost of $6.00 for each one. By using back and white tull. Vases that where purchased at the dollar tree and white 40 she made out of sparkle foam sheets.

Below I wanted to include my personality to the mix. By adding special sayings on the walls. I wanted to keep the cost down, but I still wanted a framed look. I was able to purchase a set of two canvas at $14.99 and sparkly letters at Micheal's. Which end up being cheaper them buying frames. To give it the frame look I hot glued two tone black ribbon around the edges and added cut outs that you can buy in the scrap booking section.

For the decor we wrapped the poles with damask print long table clothes and tied with ribbon. We got the table clothes for a bargain at walmart only .99 cent. They were plastic, yes I said plastic. We also used a roll of white and black table clothes to drape under and around the patio area. With white lights and a disc ball for a extra flare.

Other ideas is if you have family or friends that have items you can borrow it helps with the decor and cost that is always a plus. A friend let me borrow his candle chandlers for the gift table and chocolate bar.

I also bought fun items at the dollar store like mask, boas, funny glasses and glow sticks to keep the party going.

I added a lotto ticket drawing to the event. Through out the night guest would receive tickets for the drawing like if they wore black and white or said nice or funny things about the party or me.

We all have ideas and thoughts on how things are going to look before it all comes together. At the end of this event I was very pleased with the out come. My guest enjoyed the evening and the decor, which always brings a smile to my heart that they did.

Black & White 40th Birthday Invites

2012-01-19T21:19:00.000-08:00

I am less then a week away from my big 40 black & white party. I still have so many things to do before the big event. But I wanted to give you a seek peek into the invites that were put together by me & my sister. The hunt was on for the perfect style and what I was trying to accomplish. Since I would be turning 40 I wanted to go with an elegant look. When working on invites I try looking at many places before I choose paper or cards to work with. I happen to find these ones in the clearance wedding section at a paper supply store for a complete set of 25 cards at the cost of $16.98.

My vision was made of using ribbon, damask paper, sparkly 40's and jewels. The goal was to keep it simple, but still make a stand out card. My sister had the lovely job of cutting the forties with her cricket machine and adding the sparkle. Mine was to print the inside wording for the invites and assemble them together.

Suggestion when shopping and making your own invites. In vision what you would like to have. If you can come close to what your looking for don't worry that it won't work or come together. You have to complete the project before you can picture it. I will be posting more of my party ideas and decor this coming week.

Wish me luck that I get it all done in time.

Wedding Brownie Pop Bliss

2012-01-13T19:28:00.000-08:00

We all know that the cake & brownie pop is one of the hottest raves to hit party and wedding dessert tables this decade. I had the honor of making brownie pops for a wonderful friends wedding this weekend. I have come up with one of the easiest ways to cut time & cost when making these delishes treats.

I use the following items for this task: 4 boxes of the big pack fudge brownies by Little Debbie's, 3 bags of white chocolate, 1 bag of navy blue chocolate, 100 white candy sticks and navy blue ribbon for bows.

Gather together what you will need and start working. I like to unwrap all the brownies first. Cut in half and roll into little balls. Once shaped place a candy stick in the center. Before dipping in chocolate, I place the pops on a cookie sheet lying down and in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. It makes it a lot easier to dip in chocolate and it helps to stay on the stick better.

Out of the freezer and into the heated up white chocolate they go. I bought a wonderful chocolate melting pot a few years back. I suggest you purchase one if you work with chocolate. Very carefully dip one at a time into the melted chocolate and swirl around to cover. Pull up out of the chocolate and move the pop in a circle motion to help remove the extra chocolate. Then place on wax paper to dry completely before decorating or doing a second coat if needed.

Please note not every brownie pop will come out pretty or one will even break. But if you take your time they will come out great.

For striping these babies I melted navy blue chocolate that I picked up from Standlee's on third in Chula Vista. I used a pipping bag to make the lines. You can also use specialty clear bottles that can be purchased at a candy or cake supply place for melted chocolate. Leaving you with this final product.

Please note that I made 96 brownie pops with this recipe.

I hope you enjoyed this tutorial..If you did please leave a comment or question if you have one...I will be happy to answer.

Up next is my 40th birthday party that I will be blogging ideas on the black & white affair that is coming up real soon. Keep a look out to see what I have to share on invites, decor, food, dessert and much more.

Until then have fun making these babies they are a joy to eat.

Easy Tamales

2011-12-31T19:05:00.000-08:00

I decided to end the year with tamales. In our family it's not Christmas without them. My daughter talked me into making them for New Year's Eve. If you have had tamales before, you know that its a lot of hard work just for one person let alone an army to make. But I was able to cut down on time and make them without all the hassle. Let's start with what you need. Every town has a little grocery store that sells tamale masa already prepared. The store I went to had the masa out in the bakery section pre-packaged. They make there masa fresh each day. I purchased 7 pounds ready made masa that all you had to do was spread. You also have to make sure to pick up hojas translation (corn husks). When I pick mine out at the store I look for big and clean. Because you need to wash and soak them and you want to make sure there big enough to fold easy. As for fillings this year I made meat, chicken with potato/carrots and cheese ones. For the chili sauce I have a great recipe that I am posting below.

First things first make sure to have everything ready before you start a spreading. I like to clean and soak my corn husks for about an hour while I am preparing the meat and sauce. As for the short cut I bought a roast chicken at the grocery store. Yes it cuts time on cooking the chicken and shredding it. I also cooked a chuck roast for the meat with garlic, pepper, salt and a few bay leaves for a few hours, until the meat was falling apart. I cut up same potatoes and carrots to add to the chicken tamales. This is what you will need for the sauce:

6 Tbsp. cooking oil

1/2 cup of flour

2 Tbsp. California chili powder

2 Tbsp. New Mexico chili powder

4 cups of Chicken broth

salt, pepper, & garlic salt for taste.

Heat the 6 Tbsp. of oil over medium heat, when its hot add the flour a little at a time mixing it with a wire whisk or fork to make smooth. You only need to brown it not over cook the two. Before you start you want to mix the 4 cups of chicken broth warmed up with the chili powders so it is combined like liquid. Pour the chicken broth and chili powder into the flour mixture a little at a time and whisk as you go so you don't get lumpy sauce. Once it is all together add the salt, pepper and garlic salt and let seamier together until bubbly then turn off. I like to add a little of the sauce to the masa after it has cooled to give it taste. Make sure to add your chicken or beef to the sauce.

Dry the corn husk completely before spreading the masa on them. You want to use the smooth side up for spreading. I like to use a knife instead of a spoon I find it easier. As you can see above evenly coat the corn husk.

Time to fill in the center with what you want. Chicken and sauce is what I was doing for these ones. Not to much or your tamales will over flow when cooking and not stay together. I say about a spoonful in the middle center part is good.

It's folding time, one side first and then the other side.

Last part is to fold the tail end up. Just a hint before cooking that my mother taught me to put them in the freezer on a cookie sheet for about 15 minutes to help bind them together for cooking.

I know that most of us might not have a tamale pot handy, but that's okay. I use a spaghetti pot, that I line the bottom with extra wet corn husk that I did not use. place a soup bowl that is made out of glass upside down in the center of the pot. Fill the pot with about two cups of water and while you are cooking you will want to add more water if it evaporates. Stack the tamales in a circle around the bowl until they are standing up in a tight circle. Place a clean wet dish towel or rag over the top of the tamales and cover with a lid. Start off cooking them on medium high until you hear the water boil, then place the setting to low. Normally tamales can take up to 1 1/2 hrs to 2 hrs depending on how many you have in the pot. While cooking check on them about every 30 minutes to make sure the water is not low. Once you get close to 1 1/2 hrs take one out of the pot and place on a plate to see if they are cooked or need more cooking. How you know if they are cooked the masa will not look wet. Once they are cooked you will want them to cool down for storing. You can store them by placing into Ziploc baggies. You can keep them in the refrigerator up to 4 days or place in the freezer which will last you for months. Either way you can enjoy these great tamales.

Sugar Cookies & More!

2011-12-16T21:57:00.000-08:00

Tis the Season to get baking! I like to say during the month of December. Christmas cookies are my favorite thing to make this time of the year plus special goodies to give to friends. As you can see I have started, my goal each year is to make 12 different type of cookies. Because I bake that much I make some from scratch and others right out of the Betty Crocker package. Yes I am not afraid to say it. Because I add a personal touch when I do.

As you can see sugar cookies & gingerbread was on my list. I made these cute cookies for my daughters class Christmas party.

Yes, these little darlings came out of a sugar cookie package and gingerbread package. Follow the recipe on the package but to make the dough more stiff, add only 1/3 cup of butter instead of 1/2 cup and add two table spoon of flour to the mix.

I used all sorts of difference cookie cutters for an assortment of shapes and sizes. For decorating I used royal icing, food color and sprinkles for the job. I suggest when you frost you will want to make the royal icing thick. By doing that you need to use less water then it states on the package and if you are doing more then one color on a cookie let the first coat dry first before adding a second color. Sprinkles need to be applied right away or the frosting will start setting and they won't stick.

If you are not much of a decorating person you can do these simple gingerbread faces. M&M's for the eyes and red ones for the cheeks. Royal icing for the glue and the smile. As I continue on my cookie journey this week I will be posting more cookie idea and recipes.

Still not sure what to get friends and co-workers for Christmas? This is one of my simple gifts this year a tumbler cup. They have become the fade in the last few years. I came across some cute ones the other day for only $3.99. I just added tissue to the bottom with chocolates on the type and curling ribbon inside for color. On the outside I used ribbon and made a homemade tag out of note paper and Christmas tags that I found in the dollar section at a retailer store.

The second gift idea was a cute Let it snow cup that I found for $2.99, seasonal sugar plum tea for $2.49 and rock candy sticks for .99 cent each. I also throw in a snowman note pad & pen that I found for $1.00. Tied it all together to create a sweet tea dream set. Remember you can do this for coffee lovers to or hot chocolate. I always put thought into what I give a co-worker, teacher, or friend. It's always a good idea to keep in mind what a person likes to drink or what goodies they like to make it special.

Christmas Tree Crafts

2011-12-05T21:56:00.000-08:00

As we head into the second week of December. I have to remind myself that time is a ticking when it comes to decorating the house. I wanted to add a few new pieces to the red theme that I have been going through for the last three years. To my collection I came up with a new card holder and Christmas tree mantel center piece. Let's get started with the Christmas tree center piece.

Above are the following items I pick up in the dollar section at a retail store. You will need dowels, bucket, ribbon, ornaments, and a glue gun for this project.

I started by gluing a dowel to the the back of a Christmas tree yarn ornament. Once it was in place I glued on ribbon to the tree for extra color. After that I glued the finished piece into the center of the pale. Adding tissue paper to the bottom to hold it in place and put silver ornament balls on top. This project took less them 30 mins. This is what the finish center piece looked like once put together.

Now for the next project I used the following items that I also picked up in the dollar section.

Only a few things needed for this Christmas tree picture/card holder. Foam trees, magnetic clips, ribbon, glitter, jewels and glue gun. First you want to glue together all the trees on a long piece of ribbon. Besides placing ribbon and jewels on the trees I wanted my tree picture/card holder to have the word peace spelled out. I used glue to write each letter and gold glitter over it. I then placed on all ribbons and jewels for a festive look and last but not least added the magnetic clips on the back with a glue gun. Make sure to hide the clips so no one can see them. You also would like to attach a ribbon in a loop on the back to hold or pin on to the fireplace, wall or door for hanging. This is what it looks like after it is completed.

Check back this week, I will be adding more crafts, baking gift ideas and just plan family fun. Yes Christmas cookies galore too.

Working The Gingerbread House Kits!

2011-12-04T20:29:00.000-08:00

There are all types of house kits you can get to make gingerbread houses. My choice is to wait until they go on sale the day after Christmas for 50% off. I like to start by saying you don't eat the house so it doesn't hurt to keep them stored. The only thing that might not be good is the candy and icing. With that in mind you can purchase royal icing at your local cake supply store and buy cheap candy like mints, tootsie rolls, jellybeans, M&M's or whatever catches your eye. The following houses are previous gingerbread houses made over the years. It is a family tradition that I like to do with my daughter each year.

The house on top was the first attempt me and my daughter made in 2006. It was a family effort my in-laws and us made it on Christmas Eve as a fun project for the kids.

As you can see my daughter was not to happy in 2007, the gingerbread house decided it wanted to cave in. I have a secret to keeping them together now. I glue gun the house together before placing the royal icing on to make sure it stays in place.

This house in 2008 came cracked up, so I had to do my best to repair it. That year we throw in a couple of Christmas trees by using green royal icing, sugar cones and sprinkles.

In 2009 we tried our hand at two houses.

Also that year I made a replica of my sisters work out of graham crackers, chocolate wafers, royal icing and candy. I used a card board base to glue the graham crackers to. Just to let you know you can use graham crackers for smaller ones too. Use a milk cart base for the outline of your house.

I have to say that in 2010, I think this house was the best yet. We even added coconut for snow and a jelly snowman at the door with smarties candy for the walk way.

This years 2011 house is up and running we are going with a red and green theme this year as you can see. I was very proud of my daugther's candy design.

So if you are not the baking type, but would love to make a gingerbread house go out and purchase a kit and use your imagination to bring it to life. This is one project that I enjoy each year and by looking back at the pictures I can see we have improved. Now if I can only master a two story gingy house.

Keep following because I have great Christmas projects and some Christmas cookie baking you don't want to miss. Until next time keep it simple!

Heart Felt Christmas Gift Ideas

2011-12-01T21:10:00.000-08:00

There is only 25 days left until Christmas Eve! If you haven't started shopping yet you might want to think of a meaningful gift to give. Believe it or not when you put thought into a gift that comes from the heart. They become the best gifts without much cost to your wallet.

A few years ago I made a special video of past Christmas pictures combine with music for my mom and dad. I also added a calendar with pictures of all our family members in the month of their birthday for them.

Another year I made my mom a photograph scrapbook on line of all of her grandchildren and great grand children. It came with a hard cover and captures on each page, just like a story book. Of course it brought tears to her eyes.

When shopping for small gifts for family members or friends you can always find bargains and great ideas if you think ahead of time.

I like to give nice hand soaps from one of my favorite stores that sales body stuff. This time of year they have great sales like 4 for $10. I wrap each bottle in a cute Christmas bag or even colorful tissue paper with a nice ribbon & tag.

The dollar stores have great packing for small items and sometimes you can find cute items to give away for co-workers. I like to shop for ornaments that I can write on like name and year. To make it special add candy and homemade cookies.

You can even come up with a new tradition. Each year I buy my mother-in-law a new Christmas bell to go with her gift. I have been doing this for over 12 years. Note she likes to collect small figure items and bells.

For my daughter we buy a new ornament every year together. This year we already picked one up at a craft show that was way to cute.

Rule of thumb if your not sure don't buy it. Make this years shopping experience more about the thought.

Coming up this week:

Gingerbread houses