Star Recipes

Flavorful Pot Roast

2012-01-04T16:59:00.003-06:00

boneless beef chuck roast, 3-5 lbs
1 envelope ranch salad dressing mix
1 envelope Italian salad dressing mix
1 envelope brown gravy mix
1/2 c water
1 Tbsp cornstarch

Put roast in 5 qt crock pot. In a small bowl, mix together the next 4 ingredients. Pour over meat Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hrs or til tender. Mix cornstarch with meat juices in small saucepan and cook til thickened for gravy.

Lemon Garlic Hummus

2011-05-30T15:40:00.003-05:00

I first had hummus when Hubby and I were on our honeymoon. I thought it was "different" back then but have since come to love it. Even most of my kids gobble it up.

This recipe is a modified version of one I found. The original had 3/4 c oil and 3 Tbsp lemon juice ... That was WAY to tart and runny for my taste, so I played with the recipe to come up with this version that I think is just right.

My favorite thing to eat with this is pita chips, but we usually end up eating it with pretzels. A friend suggested Wheat Thins. I think we may have to try that!

1/2 c extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1 1/2 - 2 minced garlic cloves (I use 2 heaping tsp minced garlic from a jar.)
1/2 tsp salt, optional
1 15 oz can chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans), rinsed and drained

Put first 5 ingredients in blender or food processor. Add about half the chickpeas and process til smooth. Add rest of chickpeas and process til smooth. Transfer to small bowl. Store in fridge. Makes 1 1/2 - 2 c.

Lebanese Pita Pockets

2011-01-06T19:11:00.005-06:00

Hubby's mom submitted this recipe for his high school's cookbook. It was a favorite of his family growing up, and now it's a favorite of ours.

3 lbs ground beef
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1 Tbsp cinnamon
1 lg onion, chopped
1 Tbsp dried mint leaves
3 Tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
pita breads, cut into halves
chopped lettuce
chopped tomato
plain yogurt or bleu cheese dressing

Brown beef and onion; drain well. Add garlic, cinnamon, mint, lemon juice, cumin, and salt. Simmer, covered for 45 min to develop flavors. A couple Tbsp of water may be added if mixture gets dry. Serve meat in pita breads. Top with lettuce, tomato, and yogurt or bleu cheese dressing.

Cheesy Vegetable Soup

2010-11-14T19:59:00.005-06:00

This recipe is from Quick Cooking 2003, but I double the California veggies to the amount listed here for a heartier soup.

6 c water
1 pkg (30 oz) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
2 pkgs (16 oz each) frozen California blend vegetables
4 tsp chicken bouillon granules
1 lb process cheese (Velveeta), cubed
2 cans (10 3/4 oz each) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1 c milk

In a lg pot, bring water to a boil. Add potatoes, veggies, and bouillon. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10 min or til beggies are tender. Stir in cheese, soup, and milk; cook and stir til cheese is melted. Serve immediately or cool and freeze for up to 3 months. Makes 14 servings.

To use frozen soup: Thaw in refrigerator. Heat in a saucepan, adding additional milk if desired to achieve desired thickness.

Tater Tot Casserole

2010-07-14T22:16:00.008-05:00

I thought everyone knew what Tater Tot Casserole was til a friend out east mentioned that it was a midwestern dish and that lots of her non-midwestern friends had never heard of it.

This is one of those comfort meals that I remember eating as a kid. I'm sure there are many, many different versions of it. This is mine. I don't have it written down, I just make it, but I'll try to write it down for others to follow. The pizza tot casserole version is based on one I found in a cookbook.

2 lbs ground beef
1/2 of a chopped onion
2 cans cream of mushroom soup
2 cans whole kernel corn, drained (may substitute 2 cans green beans, drained)
any or all of the following spices to taste: seasoned salt, salt, pepper, garlic powder
32 oz pkg frozen tater tots

Brown beef and onion in skillet, draining as needed. Mix in soup, corn, and spices; heat through. Put meat mixture in greased 9x13" pan. Arrange tater tots in single layer on top of meat mixture. Bake according to tater tot package directions.

Pizza Tot version changes:
Saute half or all of a chopped green pepper with beef and onions.
Substitute 2 cans tomato soup for cream of mushroom soup.
No corn or green beans.
Add 1 or 2 cans (4 oz each) of mushrooms (drained) to beef mixture with soup.
Use Italian seasoning and/or oregano instead of or in addition to the garlic powder.
After putting the meat mixture in the pan, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and/or black olives on top before adding the tater tots.

Sunshiny Fruit Salad

2010-06-04T15:48:00.002-05:00

This is my go-to fruit salad.

2 cans (20 oz each) pineapple chunks
2 cans (11 oz each) mandarin oranges
1 pkg (3.4 oz) instant lemon pudding
other fruit of your choice, atleast 5 c total (I like to use sliced strawberries, blueberries, apple chunks, and/or halved grapes. Bananas would also work well, but I'm not big on bananas in fruit salad.)

Drain pineapple and oranges, reserving the liquid from one of the pineapple cans. In a sm bowl, combine the pudding mix with the reserved pineapple juice. In a lg bowl, mix together all fruit except oranges. Add pudding/juice mixture and stir. Gently fold in oranges. (Do not mix too much once oranges are in or they will fall apart.) Chill 2 hrs. Makes 10-12 servings.

*Note: The fruit salad will get more liquidy the longer it sits.

Grilled Herbed Chicken

2010-05-31T21:34:00.002-05:00

We tried this for the first time on Memorial Day 2010 and will definitely be making it again!

1 c lemon juice
1/2 c vegetable oil
8 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp basil
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
4 -5 lg boneless, skinless chicken breasts OR about 3 lbs chicken, quartered

Put lg plastic ziploc bag in bowl. In bag, mix together all ingredients except chicken. Add chicken, zip bag, and turn to coat chicken. Refrigerate chicken in bag for 8-24 hrs. Grill chicken, covered, over medium heat, turning and basting frequently with remaining marinade til juices run clear.

Raspberry Almond Shortbread Thumbprints

2009-12-08T21:32:00.003-06:00

This recipe is from a friend and co-worker who even put them in our church's cookbook.

I like to make these cookies with our homemade strawberry jam instead of the raspberry.

2/3 c sugar
1 c butter, softened
1/2 tsp almond extract
2 c flour
1/2 c raspberry jam

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In lg bowl, combine sugar, butter, and almond extract. Beat at med speed til creamy. Reduce speed to low and add flour. Beat til well blended. Shape dough into 1" balls. Place 2" apart on a cookie sheet. With thumb (I like to use my pinkie finger.), make an indentation in center of each cookie. Fill each indentation with about 1/4 tsp jam. (A baby spoon works great for putting the jam in.) Bake for 14-18 min or til edges are lightly browned. Cool completely. Makes 3 1/2 dozen.

Glaze:
1 c powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp almond extract
2-3 tsp water

In a sm bowl, stir together all glaze ingredients til smooth and desired consistency. Drizzle over cookies.

Wafflewiches

2009-11-06T21:37:00.004-06:00

My stepmom made these for us when I was young. Now I make them, and the kids gobble them up!

even number of waffles (homemade or thawed frozen storebought, NOT belgian waffles)
bacon or sausage patties
shredded cheese

Cook the bacon or brown the sausage patties. When meat is done, break bacon pieces in half and put 3 bacon halves on a waffle OR put 1 sausage patty on a waffle. Top with shredded cheese, and cover with another waffle. Wrap each wafflewich individually in foil and put in 300-350 degree oven for 5-10 min or til wafflewich is warm and cheese is melted. Unwrap and eat.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

2009-08-14T20:19:00.003-05:00

I made a double batch of this for my husband's annual work picnic and came back with an empty bowl!

1 pkg fresh spinach
2 c strawberries, sliced
2 Tbsp butter
salt to taste
8 oz pecan halves
1/4 c light virgin olive oil
1/4 c sugar
1/4 c raspberry vinaigrette dressing
salt to taste

Clean spinach, removing stems. Slice strawberries. Toss pecans with melted butter and salt to taste. Spread on baking sheets in single layer. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 min or til crisp; cool. Mix dressing ingredients in blender or shaker: oil, sugar, raspberry vinaigrette, and salt. Shake well; assemble salad ingredients, pour and toss dressing on right before serving.

Cheddar Taters

2009-08-01T21:23:00.006-05:00

The first time we had this recipe, I was teaching my 10 yr old daughter E to cook, and she helped me make it.

1 can (10 3/4 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 c (8 oz) sour cream
1/2 c butter or margarine, melted
1 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp minced onion
1 pkg (32 oz) frozen Tater Tots
1 1/2 c (6 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
1 c crushed potato chips

In a lg bowl, combine the first 6 ingredients. Gently stir in the Tater Tots. Transfer to a greased 9x13" baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and potato chips. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 30-35 min or til bubbly. Makes 8-10 servings.

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

2009-07-09T23:06:00.002-05:00

I baked this pie for the first time this summer using strawberries from our own berry patch and rhubarb from my grandparents' garden. I may have found a new favorite pie!

2 pints strawberries cut into about 1/2" pieces
1 lb rhubarb (without tops), cut into 1/2" pieces or 16 oz pkg frozen rhubarb
1 1/4 c sugar
1/3 c flour
2 Tbsp quick-cooking tapioca
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp salt
pastry for 9" double crust pie
1 Tbsp butter, cut into bits

In a lg bowl, with rubber spatula, gently toss strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, flour, tapioca, vanilla, and salt to mix well. Let mixture stand 30 min to soften tapioca, stirring occasionally so tapioca will be evenly moistened.

Line 9 or 10" pie plate with bottom pastry crust, leaving 1" overhang. Spoon fruit mixture into crust; dot fruit with butter. Cover fruit with top pastry crust, fluting edges and cutting slits in top crust, or weave a lattice-top crust.

Bake pie 50 min at 425 degrees until fruit mixture begins to bubble* and crust is golden. Cool pie on rack 1 hr; serve warm or cool. Refrigerate leftovers.

*I learned the hard way to put a cookie sheet on the rack below the rack the pie is on to catch overflow when baking it in the oven!

Rhubarb Bread

2009-07-09T23:00:00.002-05:00

1 1/2 c brown sugar
1/2 c oil or unsweetened applesauce
1 egg
1 c buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 c chopped fresh or frozen rhubarb

Topping:
1/2 c sugar
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1 Tbsp melted butter

Mix first 4 ingredients in a bowl. Add egg; mix well. Beat in milk and vanilla. Add flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing just til combined. Fold in rhubarb. Pour in 2 greased 8x4x2" loaf pans. Combine topping ingredients till all is moistened. Sprinkle over bread. Bake at 350 degrees for 60-65 min or til toothpick comes out clean. Cut with serrated knife. Makes 2 loaves.

Rich Brownie Cake

2009-04-27T07:33:00.006-05:00

Oh. my. goodness! This dessert should be renamed "Death By Chocolate". It's every chocoholic's dream ... ESPECIALLY chocolatey ... ESPECIALLY rich ... ESPECIALLY good!

1 1/2 c butter (no substitutes)
6 squares (1 oz each) unsweetened chocolate
3 1/4 c sugar, divided
5 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 c flour
3/4 tsp salt
2 pkg (8 oz each) semisweet baking chocolate
4 c (32 oz) whipping cream, divided

In a microwave or double boiler, melt butter and unsweetened chocolate. Stir in 3 c sugar. Add eggs, beating very well. Stir in vanilla, flour, and salt; mix well. Pour into 3 greased and floured 9" round cake pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 23-25 min or til a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool completely; remove from pans.

For frosting, melt semisweet chocolate in a heavy saucepan over med heat. Gradually stir in 3 c of whipping cream til well blended. Heat to a boil and stir for 1 min. Remove from heat and transfer to a mixing bowl. Refrigerate for 2-3 hrs til mixture reaches a pudding-like consistency. Beat til soft peaks form. Spread between layers and over top and sides of cake.

Beat remaining whipping cream and sugar til soft peaks form. Serve a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cake slice.

Store in refrigerator. Makes 16-20 servings.

Delicious Cinnamon Coffee Cake

2009-03-04T09:11:00.007-06:00

Hubby found this recipe in a book and changed it up a bit to come up with this version. It's a very simple recipe and not a fancy coffee cake, but the kids love it! In fact, they're the ones who gave it this name!

1 1/2 c flour
3/4 c wheat flour [may substitute regular flour (in addition to the previously listed 1 1/2 c)]
3/4 c sugar
3 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
3 eggs
1 c plain yogurt
1/2 c milk

Topping:
1 Tbsp sugar
2 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp nutmeg
1 Tbsp butter, melted

Mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a small bowl, beat together eggs, milk, and yogurt. Stir egg mixture into dry ingredients and beat well. Spread batter in greased 13x9" pan and bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 min or til toothpick comes out clean.* Meanwhile, mix together first 3 topping ingredients. Immediately upon removing cake from oven, brush entire top with melted butter and sprinkle with dry topping mixture. Return pan to oven for 1 min, then cool.

*You can also make the recipe into muffins. Follow directions above except grease muffin pan or line with muffin cups. Fill about half full. (Muffins will rise quite a bit.) Bake at 425 degrees for 15 min. Continue with directions above for topping. Makes 1 1/2 - 2 dozen muffins.

Macaroon Ice Cream Torte

2009-03-01T16:41:00.004-06:00

I made this dessert for Hubby's 35th birthday. However, I had trouble finding macaroon cookies in the store, so I used the substitutions indicated. It was still really good!

24 macaroon cookies (I used 1 pkg crushed coconut cookies and about 1 c shredded coconut.)
1 qt coffee ice cream, softened
1 qt chocolate ice cream, softened
1 1/2 c Heath candy bits or 2 Heath candy bars, coarsely chopped (1.4 oz each)
hot fudge topping, warmed

For crust, mix half of the cookies (and coconut) with about 1 - 1 1/2 c of the coffee ice cream. Spread into the bottom of an ungreased 9" springform pan. Repeat with cookies (and coconut) using 1 - 1 1/2 c of the chocolate ice cream. Sprinkle with half of the Heath bits. Spread remaining softened coffee ice cream on top of crust. Repeat with remaining chocolate ice cream. Sprinkle with remaining Heath bits. Freeze til firm.

Remove from freezer atleast 10 min before serving. Remove sides of pan. Cut dessert into wedges and drizzle with hot fudge. Makes 12-16 servings.

Baked Beef Stew

2009-02-19T09:07:00.004-06:00

Baked beef stew is shown with cheesy garlic bread.

2 cans (14 1/2 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 c water
2 c beef broth
6 Tbsp quick-cooking tapioca
2 tsp sugar
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
2 1/2 lbs lean beef stew meat, cut into 1" cubes
8 med carrots, cut into 1" chunks
6-7 med potatoes, peeled and cut into 1" cubes
4 celery ribs, cut into 1/2" chunks
1 med onion, cut into chunks
2 slices of bread, cubed

In a bowl, combine the tomatoes, water, broth, tapioca, sugar, salt, and pepper. Set aside. Put the rest of the ingredients into a greased ovenproof Dutch oven or med roasting pan. Pour tomato mixture on top and stir to mix well. Cover and bake at 375 degrees for 1 3/4 to 2 hrs or til meat and veggies are tender, stirring occasionally. Serve in bowls. Makes 8-10 servings.

White Brownies

2009-02-05T09:23:00.006-06:00

This dessert may not look like anything special, but they're definitely worth making!

6 oz white baking chocolate

1 c butter

6 eggs

3 c sugar

2 tsp vanilla

3 c flour

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 pkg (12 oz) vanilla chips

1 c chopped pecans

In a double boiler or microwave, melt chocolate and butter; cool for atleast 10 min. In a mixing bowl, beat eggs and sugar til thick and lemon-colored, about 4 min. Beat in melted chocolate and vanilla. Add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix well. Stir in chips and pecans. Pour into a greased 15x10x1" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 min or til golden brown. Cool. Makes about 4 dozen. (I don't get this many.) ;)

Chili Dip

2009-01-01T13:34:00.003-06:00

I made and served this dip at our New Year's party to ring in 2009. It was a hit! It's a good thing I'd doubled the recipe!

1 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 can (15 oz) chili with meat (with or without beans, your choice)
1/2 c salsa
1 c (4 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
tortilla chips or Frito Scoops

Spread the cream cheese in an 8" square baking dish. In a bowl, mix together chili and salsa; spread over cream cheese. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar. Bake at 350 degrees for 5 min or til cheese is melted and dip is warm. Serve with tortilla chips or Frito Scoops. Makes 8 servings.

Bohemian Coffee Braid

2008-12-24T15:14:00.004-06:00

This recipe is from Hubby's mom. Their family traditionally made it at Christmastime.

2 packages dry yeast
½ cup warm water (110-120 degrees)
1 ½ cup warm milk (same temp as above)
¾ cup sugar
2 teaspoons salt
2 eggs (room temp – important)
¾ cup softened real butter
7 ½ cups flour (may use a little less 7 cups? Depends on how sticky or dry it is)
1 tablespoon grated lemon zest (may use any citrus you have)
¼ teaspoon mace
1 ½ cup raisins, may chop or leave whole
1 cup chopped almonds, pecans or none, if preferred (then add a few more raisins)

Dissolve yeast in warm water, then mix with the milk, sugar, salt, eggs, butter, half the flour, lemon zest, mace, raisins, and nuts. Keep adding flour until dough is smooth and workable. Knead on a floured board until smooth and elastic. (10 minutes) Put in a greased bowl, turn to coat, cover with a damp tea towel and place in a warm spot to rise until double, about 1 1/2 hours. Punch dough down. Divide in half. Set one half aside and divide the other into 4 equal parts. Shape three of the pieces into 14 inch long strands and braid on a lightly greased cookie sheet (You may want to arrange this diagonally. These get big!). Fasten ends together and tuck under. Take fourth piece and divide in thirds and make a second smaller braid to go on top of the first. Repeat with other half of dough on a second greased cookie sheet. Cover each braid loosely with damp tea towels and let rise for 45 minutes to an hour. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes, until golden brown, but not dark.

When loaves have cooled completely, decorate with a frosting of:
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup soft butter
1 t. vanilla
½ t. almond extract

Beat all together with just enough milk or cream to make a nice spreadable frosting. Spread on tops of braids and gently press halves of drained maraschino cherries and pecan halves on top.

Makes two large, 2-layer braids; serves 12.

Herbed Sirloin Tip

2008-11-21T10:26:00.003-06:00

2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp celery salt
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/8 tsp dillweed
1/8 tsp rubbed sage
1 sirloin tip roast, about 2 lbs.

Combine seasonings; rub over entire roast. Place roast on a rack in roasting pan or on broiler pan. Bake uncovered at 426 degrees for 40-60 min or til meat reaches desired doneness (140 degrees - rare; 150 degrees - med-rare, 170 degrees - well-done). Let stand 10-15 min before slicing. Makes 6-8 servings.

Brownie Bites

2008-11-21T10:20:00.004-06:00

These heavenly little cookies taste just like brownies!

4 squares (1 oz each) unsweetened chocolate
1 c semisweet chocolate chips
1/3 c butter
1 c sugar
3 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 c flour
2 Tbsp baking cocoa
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
additional 1 c semisweet chocolate chips, optional

In a microwave or double boiler, melt unsweetened chocolate, chocolate chips, and butter; cool 10 min. In a mixing bowl, beat sugar and eggs for 2 min. Beat in vanilla and the chocolate mixture. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, and salt; beat into chocolate mixture. Stir in remaining chocolate chips if desired. Chill atleast 3 hrs. Roll dough into 1" balls. (Dough will be very sticky.) Place on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 min or til lightly puffed and set. Do not overbake. Cool atleast 1 min on baking sheet before removing to wire rack to cool completely. Makes about 4 dozen.

Lasagna

2008-08-26T13:17:00.005-05:00

My standard "classic" lasagna recipe

1 1/2 lb ground beef, browned

32 oz (4 c) spaghetti sauce*

1 c water*

1 tsp salt

8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles

3 c shredded mozzarella

2 c small curd cottage cheese

1 c grated Parmesan cheese OR additional 1/2 - 1 c shredded mozzarella

Combine beef, sauce, water, and salt. Layer 1/3 sauce mix, 1/2 noodles, 1/2 cottage cheese, and 1/2 mozzarella in large pan. Repeat layers, ending with sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan or additional mozzarella. Bake covered with foil at 350 degrees for 1 1/2. Makes 12 servings.

* OR use 5 c spaghetti sauce and NO water.

Cheesy Zucchini Wedges

2008-08-13T20:27:00.004-05:00

A cheesy zucchini wedge (top) is shown with chicken rosemary (right).

1 med onion, chopped
1/4 c butter
2 1/2 c biscuit mix
1 Tbsp minced, fresh parsley OR 1/2 Tbsp dried parsley
1/2 dried basil
1/2 tsp dried thyme
3 eggs, beaten
1/4 c milk
1 1/2 c shredded zucchini
1 c shredded cheddar cheese OR 1/2-3/4 c grated parmesan cheese

In a skillet, saute the onion in butter til tender. In a bowl, combine the biscuit mix, parsely, basil, thyme, and onion mixture. Stir in eggs, milk, zucchini, and cheese just til combined. Transfer to a greased 9" round baking pan. Bake at 400 degrees for 25-30 min or til a toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cut into wedges. Makes 8-12 servings.

Toffee Bars

2008-08-13T16:55:00.006-05:00

This recipe is from the Better Homes and Gardens cookbook.

1/2 c margarine or butter

1/2 c sugar

1/4 tsp salt

1 c flour

14 oz can (1 1/4 c) sweetened condensed milk

2 Tbsp margarine or butter

2 tsp vanilla

1 square (1 oz) unsweetened chocolate

2 Tbsp margarine or butter

1 1/2 c powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla

In a mixing bowl beat the 1/2 c butter, the sugar, and salt with an electric mixer on med to high speed til thoroughly combined. Stir in flour. Press into the bottom of an ungreased 13x9" pan. Bake in a 350 degree oven about 15 min or til edges are lightly browned.

In a heavy med saucepan heat condensed milk and the 2 Tbsp butter over med heat til bubbly, stirring constantly. Cook and stir for 5 min more. (Mixture will thicken and become smooth.) Stir in the 2 tsp vanilla. Spread over baked layer. Bake for 12-15 min or til golden.

For fudge icing, in a sm saucepan heat chocolate and the 2 Tbsp butter over low heat til melted, stirring occasionally. (I heat them in a microwave for 1 min on high, stir, and continue heating in microwave at 30 second increments as needed, stirring in between.) Remove from heat; stir in powdered sugar and the 1 tsp vanilla. Stir in enough HOT water (1-2 Tbsp to make an icing of pouring consistency. Spread over warm cookie and immediately cut into bars. Cool.

Makes 3 dozen.

Carrot Cake

2008-07-30T08:58:00.004-05:00

One of my best friends shared this recipe with me. I modified it slightly.

I baked this cake for my 33rd birthday.

2 c sugar
2 c flour
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
7 oz shredded coconut
2 c shredded carrots
1 c chopped walnuts (I don't add because I don't like nuts in cake.)
1 1/2 c oil
3 eggs
7 oz crushed pineapple, undrained
2 tsp vanilla

Mix all ingredients together. Pour into 9x13" pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 min or til tests done. (I had to bake it for 60 min.) Cool to frost.

Frosting:
5 oz cream cheese, softenend
3 Tbsp butter or margarine, softened
3 3/4 c powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
3 tsp milk
additional chopped walnuts (I omit.)

Mix well. Add additional powdered sugar if needed to achieve desired consistency. Sprinkle with walnuts.

French Breakfast Puffs

2008-07-18T11:43:00.005-05:00

I made these for breakfast the morning of G's 6th birthday.

This recipe is from the Quick Cooking 2001 cookbook.

1/3 c shortening
1 c sugar, divided
1 egg
1 1/2 c flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 c milk
1 tsp cinnamon
6 Tbsp butter or margarine, melted

In a mixing bowl, beat shortening, 1/2 c sugar, and egg til smooth. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg; add to the sugar mixture alternately with milk. Fill greased muffin cups 2/3 full. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 min or til a toothpick comes out clean. Meanwhile, combine cinnamon and remaining sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll the warm puffs in butter, then in cinnamon-sugar. Serve immediately. Makes 1 dozen.

Monkey Bread

2008-07-03T16:09:00.004-05:00

1 pkg (3 1/2 oz) cook and serve butterscotch pudding mix
3/4 c sugar
1 Tbsp ground cinnamon
1/2 c finely chopped pecans, optional
1/2 c butter or margarine
3 tubes (10 oz each) refrigerated biscuits

In a bowl with a tight-fitting lid or in a gallon-sized ziploc bag, combine pudding mix, sugar, cinnamon, and pecans. Melt butter in a shallow bowl. Cut the biscuits into quarters. Dip several biscuit pieces in butter and put in bowl with pudding mix. Cover (or seal baggie) and shake, then put biscuit pieces in a greased 10" tube pan. Repeat with remaining biscuit pieces. If any butter or pudding mixture is left over, mix together and pour on top of biscuit pieces in pan. Bake at 300 degrees for 45-60 min. Cool in pan 30 min before inverting onto serving plate. Makes 10-12 servings.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Trifle

2008-06-16T09:23:00.005-05:00

I've modified this recipe from another by a different name.

I don't know if my trifle bowl is a bit smaller than normal sized ones, but I can't fit all of the ingredients in the amounts originally dictated into my trifle bowl. In the recipe below, I have first given the original amounts but then listed the amounts I use where appropriate.

1 pkg (18 1/4 oz) chocolate cake mix
1 pkg (10 oz) peanut butter chips
4 1/4 c cold milk, divided
2 pkg (5.9 oz each) instant chocolate pudding mix
1/2 c whipping cream
1/4 tsp vanilla
1 carton (12 oz) Cool Whip (I only use 8 oz.)
4 crushed Butterfinger candy bars OR 4 pkg Reese's Peanut Butter cups cut up OR 1 - 1 1/2 c chocolate chips

Prepare cake mix according to pkg directions. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 13x9" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 min or til toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool.

While cake is cooling, beat together 4 c milk and chocolate pudding mix. Place in refrigerator to set.

Also while cake is cooling, combine peanut butter chips, 1/4 c milk, and cream in heavy saucepan. Cook and stir over low heat til chips are melted. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla. Cool to room temperature.

When cake is cool, cut cake into bite-size pieces.

Layer into large trifle bowl or large bowl half of the cake (I use about 1/3.), half of the peanut butter sauce, half of the pudding (I use about 1/3.), half of the Cool Whip (I use 4 oz.), and half the candy bar pieces or chocolate chips; repeat layers.* Cover and refrigerate atleast 3 hrs before serving.

Makes 12-15 servings.

*I end up using only 2/3 of the cake and pudding total.

Cinnamon Sticky Buns

2008-06-11T13:18:00.006-05:00

1 c packed brown sugar
1/2 c corn syrup
1/2 c butter
1 c chopped pecans
1/2 c sugar
2 Tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tubes (16 oz each) large refrigerated biscuits

In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter; cook and stir til sugar is dissolved. Stir in the pecans. Pour into a greased 13x9" pan and spread so that the bottom of the pan is evenly covered.

In a shallow bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Cut each biscuit in half; dip in cinnamon-sugar mixture. Place cut side down in pan over pecan mixture, 3 rows of biscuits wide. Pour all or part of remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture on top.

Bake at 375 degrees for 25-30 min. Invert carefully onto a serving plate; serve warm.

Makes 12-16 servings.

Apple Coffee Cake

2008-06-02T12:51:00.006-05:00

2 c biscuit mix
2 Tbsp sugar
1 egg
2/3 c water or milk
1 c finely chopped apple

Topping:
1/2 c sugar
4 Tbsp biscuit mix
4 tsp cinnamon
2 Tbsp margarine or butter, melted

Mix together all cake ingredients except apple. Mix well. Stir in apple. Spread batter in 8x8" or 11x7" greased pan. Mix together topping ingredients and sprinkle on top of cake batter. Bake 20-25 min or till toothpick in center comes out clean. Makes 8-10 servings.

Molasses Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

2008-05-27T15:03:00.005-05:00

This is the BEST oatmeal raisin cookie I've ever had! It would be wonderful without the raisins, too.

3/4 - 1 c raisins
1/2 c shortening
1 1/4 c sugar
2 eggs
1/2 c molasses
1 3/4 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 c oatmeal

Place raisins in a bowl. Cover with boiling water; let stand for 5 min. Drain and set aside. In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs; beat very well. Beat in molasses. Add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix well. Stir in oatmeal. Stir in drained raisins. Drop by Tbsp 2" apart on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 14-16 min. Cool slightly before removing from cookie sheet to wire racks to cool. Makes about 4 dozen.

Apple Bread

2008-05-21T09:41:00.004-05:00

1 c sugar
1/4 c shortening, melted and slightly cooled
2 c chopped apples
2 eggs
1 tsp baking soda
2 Tbsp sour milk
2 c flour
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp salt

Mix above ingredients. Pour in loaf pan. (Mixture will be thick.)

Topping:
2 Tbsp flour
2 Tbsp sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 Tbsp melted butter

Mix together topping ingredients. Sprinkle on top of bread batter in pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 min or til bread tests done. Makes 1 loaf.

Fruit Crisp

2008-05-12T09:27:00.006-05:00

Apple crisp is shown above.

fruit filling (see below)
1 c rolled oats
1 c packed brown sugar
1/2 c flour
1/2 c butter, melted
1/2 c chopped nuts and/or coconut, both are optional

Put fruit filling in 9" pie plate or 8x8" pan.

In a bowl, combine oatmeal, brown sugar, and flour. Stir in butter til whole mixture is moist. Stir in nuts and/or coconut if desired. Sprinkle topping over filling.

Bake in 375 degree oven for 30-35 min (40 min for thawed fruit) or til fruit is tender and topping is golden. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream if desired. Makes 6 servings.

Fruit filling options:

Apples, pears, peaches (fresh or frozen*, unsweetened), or apricots:
Mix together 5 c of fruit and 2-4 Tbsp sugar.

Blueberries (fresh or frozen*):
Mix together 5 c blueberries, 4 Tbsp sugar, and 3 Tbsp flour.

Cherries (fresh or frozen*):
Mix together 5 c pitted tart cherries, 1/2 c sugar, and 3 Tbsp flour.

Rhubarb (fresh or frozen*):
Mix together 5 c sliced rhubarb, 1 c sugar, and 3 Tbsp flour.

Canned pie filling:
Use 1-2 cans of your choice of canned fruit pie filling. Do not add anthing to it; just dump in pan. If using 2 cans of pie filling, be sure to use a 9x13" pan.

*Thaw fruit if frozen. Do NOT drain.

Caramel Apple Cake

2008-05-06T08:13:00.002-05:00

1 1/2 c vegetable oil
1 1/2 c sugar
1/2 c packed brown sugar
3 eggs
3 c flour
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3 1/2 c diced peeled apples
2 tsp vanilla

Caramel icing:
1/2 c packed brown sugar
1/3 c light cream
1/4 c butter
2 c powdered sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine oil and sugars. Add eggs, beating well. Add 1 c of flour and all the dry ingredients. Gradually add rest of flour. Add vanilla. Fold in apples. Pour into a greased and floured 10" tube pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 1 1/2 hrs or til cake tests done. Cool in pan 10 min; remove to wire rack to cool completely.

Heat brown sugar, cream, and butter in saucepan on stove over low-med heat til sugar is dissolved. Cool to room temp. Beat in powdered sugar til smooth, adding more powdered sugar til desired consistency is reached. Drizzle/spread/pour over cake.

Makes 12-16 servings.

Herbed Salmon

2008-05-05T07:59:00.002-05:00

25-30 saltine crackers, crushed
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbsp dried parsley OR 1/2 c fresh parsley, chopped
6 Tbsp grated Parmesan
1 Tbsp dried thyme OR 1/4 c fresh thyme, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
4 Tbsp butter, melted
2-3 lbs salmon

In a bowl, combine cracker crumbs, garlic, parsely, Parmesan, thyme, and salt; mix well. Add melted butter and toss lightly to coat; set aside. Place salmon skin side down in a greased baking dish. Cover with crumb mixture, patting crumbs down on top of fish. Bake at 350 degrees 20-25 min or til salmon flakes easily with a fork. Makes 8 servings.

Peanut Butter Bars

2008-05-02T09:18:00.004-05:00

This recipe is from the Better Homes and Gardens cookbook. I've doubled the bar part of the recipe so that it can be made in a 9x13" pan instead of the 8x8" pan the recipe originally calls for. The frosting part of the recipe is correct for the doubled bar recipe.

1 1/2 c flour
1 c packed brown sugar
1/2 c peanut butter
1/2 c shortening
2 eggs
2 Tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 c oatmeal

Combine about half of the flour, the brown sugar, peanut butter, shortening, eggs, milk, vanilla, and baking soda. Beat with an electric mixer on med to high speed til thoroughly combined. Beat in remaining flour. Stir in oats. Spread batter into an ungreased 9x13" pan.

Bake in a 375 degree oven for 15-18 min or til a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool in pan on a wire rack.

Frosting:
1/3 c peanut butter
4 1/2 c powdered sugar
1/4 c milk
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
milk

In a bowl beat peanut butter and 2 c of the powdered sugar. Slowly beat in the 1/4 milk and vanilla. Slowly beat in remaining sugar. Beat in additional milk, if needed, to make of spreading consistency. Frost cooled bars.

Makes 2-3 dozen.

Graham Cracker Crust

2008-05-01T08:01:00.002-05:00

This recipe is from the Better Homes and Gardens cookbook.

1/3 c margarine or butter
1/4 c sugar
1 1/4 c finely crushed graham crackers (about 18)

Melt butter. Stir in sugar. Add crushed graham crackers. Toss to mis well. Spread mixture evenly into 9" pie plate. Press onto bottom and sides to form a firm, eben crust. Chill about 1 hr or til firm OR bake in a 375 degree oven for 4-5 min or til edges is lightly browned. Cool on wire rack before filling. Makes 1 crust.

Pie Crust

2008-04-30T08:04:00.003-05:00

This recipe is from the Better Homes and Gardens cookbook.

This is my standard pie crust recipe.

2 1/4 c flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 c cookin oil
1/3 c cold milk

In a mixing bowl stir together flour and salt. Pour oil and milk into a measuring cup (do not stir); add all at once to flour mixture. Stir lightly with a fork. Form 2 balls; flatten slightly with hands.

Cut waxed paper into 4 12" squares. Place each ball of dough between 2 squares of paper. Roll each ball of dough into a circle to edges of paper. (Dampen work surface with a little water to prevent paper from slipping.)

Peel off top papers and fit dough, paper side up, into 9" pie plates. (Or reserve one portion for use as a top crust.) Remove paper.

Makes one 9" double crust pastry or two 9" single crust pastries.

Pecan Pie

2008-04-29T07:51:00.002-05:00

My favorite kind of pie! Mmmmmmmmm!

3 eggs
1 c corn syrup
2/3 c sugar
1/3 c margarine or butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 c pecan halves
pastry for single crust pie

For filling, in a mixing bowl, beat eggs lightly til well mixed. Mix in corn syrup, sugar, butter, and vanilla. Mix well. Stir in pecans.

Place in a pastry-lined 9" pie plate on the oven rack. Pour the filling into the pastry-lined pie plate. Cover edge of pie with foil. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 min.

Remove foil; bake for 20-25 min longer or til knife inserted near senter comes out clean. Cool pie on a wire rack. Cover and chill to store. Makes 8 servings.

Spritz

2008-04-28T07:58:00.003-05:00

This recipe is from the Better Homes and Gardens cookbook.

At Christmastime I like to color the dough with green food coloring and use the tree shaped disk on my cookie press. Then I sprinkle the cookies with tiny colored ball-shaped sprinkles before baking them.

1 1/2 c margarine or butter
3 1/2 c flour
1 c sugar
1 egg
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp almond extract, optional

Beat margarine with an electric mixer on med to high speed for 30 sec. Add 1 c of the flour, the sugar, egg, baking powder, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat til thoroughly combined. Beat in remaining flour.

Force unchilled dough through a cookie press onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 8-10 min or til edges are firm but not brown. Cool cookies on wire rack.

Makes about 7 dozen.

Gingersnaps

2008-04-25T08:07:00.002-05:00

This recipe is from the Better Homes and Gardens cookbook. At Christmastime I like to dip half of each cooled gingersnap in melted white chocolate and let harden.

2 1/4 c flour
1 c packed brown sugar
3/4 c shortening OR cooking oil
1/4 c molasses
1 egg
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/4 c sugar

In a mixing bowl combine about half the flour, the brown sugar, shortening, molasses, egg, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Beat with an electric mixer on med to high speed til thoroughly combined. Beat in remaining flour.

Shape dough into 1" balls. Roll in sugar. Place 2" apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 8-10 min or til set and tops are crackled. Cool cookies on wire rack. Makes about 4 dozen.

Peanut Butter Cookies

2008-04-24T08:48:00.002-05:00

This is my standard peanut butter cookie and Hershey kiss cookie recipe.

1/2 c butter, softened
1/2 c peanut butter
1 1/4 c flour
1/2 c sugar
1/2 c packed brown sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp vanilla

In a mixing bowl, beat butter and peanut butter together til combined. Add about half of the flour, all of the sugars, egg, baking soda, baking powder, and vanilla. Beat til thoroughly mixed. Beat in remaining flour. Cover and chill dough for 1 hr.

Shape dough into 1" balls. Place 2" apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten by criss-crossing with tines of a fork.

Bake at 375 degrees for 7-9 min or til bottoms are lightly browned. Cool cookies on a wire rack. Makes about 3 dozen.

For Hershey kiss cookies:

Follow above recipe but do not flatten cookies with a fork. Immediately after removing baked cookies from oven, place 1 Hershy kiss into center of each cookie.

Snickerdoodles

2008-04-23T07:56:00.004-05:00

This recipe is from the Better Homes and Gardens cookbook. It's one of Hubby's favorite cookies.

1/2 c margarine or butter (softened)
1 1/2 c flour
1 c sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp cream of tartar
2 Tbsp sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon

In a mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on med to high speed for 30 sec. Add about half the flour, 1 c sugar, egg, vanilla, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Beat til thoroughly combined. Beat in remaining flour. Cover and chill 1 hr.

Shape into 1" balls. Combine remaining sugar and cinnamon. Roll balls in sugar-cinnamon mixture. Place 2" apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-11 min or til edges are golden. Cool cookies on wire rack. Makes about 3 dozen.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2008-04-22T07:46:00.003-05:00

This is my standard chocolate chip cookie recipe. I usually double the recipe except for the chocolate chips.

1/2 c shortening
1/2 c butter, softened
2 1/2 c flour
1 c packed brown sugar
1/2 c sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 pkg (12 oz) semisweet chocolate chips (2 c)

In a mixing bowl, beat shortening and butter with an electric mixer on med to high speed for 30 sec. Add half the flour, all the brown sugar, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and baking soda. Beat mixture til thoroughly combined. Beat in the remaining flour. Stir in chocolate chips.

Drop dough by Tbsp 2" apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 8-10 min or til edges are lightly browned. Cool on wire rack. Makes 3-4 dozen.

Pound Cake

2008-04-21T09:02:00.004-05:00

This is the pound cake recipe I always use.

1 c butter, softened
4 eggs
2 c flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 c sugar
1 tsp vanilla

In a mixing bowl, stir together flour and baking powder. In another bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer on med speed for 30 sec.

Gradually add sugar to butter, beating on med to high speed about 6 min total or til very light and fluffy. Add vanilla. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture, beating on low to med speed just til combined.

Pour batter into a greased 9x5x3" loaf pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 55-65 min or til toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool on wire rack for 10 min. Remove cake from pan. Cool thoroughly on wire rack. Makes 12 servings.

Brownie Caramel Cheesecake

2008-04-16T07:44:00.004-05:00

I got this recipe off the internet. I can't remember where, but it says it was submitted by Jackie Meiborg.

1 pkg (9 oz) brownie mix
3 eggs, divided
1 Tbsp cold water
1 pkg (14 oz) individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped
1 can (5 oz) evaporated milk
2 pkg (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1/2 c sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 c chocolate fudge topping

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bottom of a 9" springform pan. In a sm bowl, mix together brownie mix, 1 egg, and water. Spread into the greased pan. Bake for 25 min.

Melt the caramels with the evaporated milk over low heat in a heavy saucepan. Stir often, and heat til mixture has a smooth consistency. Reserve 1/3 c of caramel mixture and pour the remainder over the warm, baked brownie crust.

In lg bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer til smooth. Add remaining 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour cream cheese mixture over caramel mixture.

Bake cheesecake for 40 min. Chill in pan. When cake is throroughly chilled, loosen by running a knife around the edge, and then remove the rim of the pan.

Heat reserved caramel mixture and spoon over cheesecake. Drizzle with the chocolate topping.

Makes 12 servings.

Nutty Cracker Delights

2008-04-15T07:46:00.003-05:00

This recipe is from my grandma. There was no measurement given for the pecans, so I guestimated.

42 club crackers
1/2 c butter
1/2 c sugar
chopped pecans (1/2 - 1 c?)

Place crackers in a single layer in a foil-lined 15x10x1" pan. In a saucepan over med heat, melt butter. Add sugar; bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil for 1 min. Remove from heat; pour evenly over crackers, sprinkle with chopped pecans. Bake at 350 degrees for about 8 min. Immediately remove from pan, cutting between crackers. Makes 3 1/2 dozen. Freezes very well.

Turtle Cheesecake

2008-04-14T08:24:00.002-05:00

2 c graham cracker crumbs
9 Tbsp butter, divided
1 bag (14 oz) caramel candies
1 can (5 1/3 oz) evaporated milk
1 c chopped pecans
2 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 c sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs, room temp
1/2 c semi-sweet chocolate, melted
12-15 whole pecans halves for garnish (optional)
chocolate topping (optional) - See below.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir cracker crumbs and 8 Tbsp of melted butter together til crumbs are evenly moistened. Press onto the bottom of a 9" springform pan. Bake 10 min. Remove to cool.

Put caramels and milk in a heavy saucepan over med heat. Stir constantly til caramels melt and mixture is smooth; about 5-7 min. Pour melted caramel in bottom of crust-lined pan and use a spoon to push it around to make an even layer. Set aside.

In a 9" glass pie plate, melt the remaining Tbsp of butter. Add the 1 c chopped pecans and stir to coat evenly. To toast; microwave on HIGH for 2-2 1/2 min. Sprinkle evenly over caramel layer in pan. Set aside.

Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla til smooth and creamy - about 2 min. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Blend in melted chocolate. Pour over toasted pecans. Bake 35-40 min, or til edges begin to crack. Remove and cool at room temp. Cover, refrigerate overnight.

To serve, run knife between cake and pan to loosen. Gently remove sides of pan. Kepp on springform base but put on serving plate. Add optional chocolate topping and arrange pecan halves around outer edge. Makes 14-16 servings.

Optional chocolate topping:

Melt 1/2 c semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 Tbsp butter in microwave. Stir in 3 Tbsp of milk til mixture is snooth. Spread topping over chilled cheesecake to coat top evenly.

Cornbread

2008-04-11T07:53:00.003-05:00

Cornbread slice shown on bottom left

This is the cornbread recipe I always use.

1/2 c unsweetened applesauce
1 c cornmeal
1 c flour
1 Tbsp sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 c milk
1 egg, beaten

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Pour into greased 8" square or 11x7" pan. Bake 20-25 min or til tests done. Makes 8-12 servings.

Cheesecake

2008-04-10T08:03:00.002-05:00

Crust:
1/3 c butter or margarine
1/4 c sugar
1 1/4 c finely crushed graham crackers (about 18)

Melt butter. Stir in sugar. Add graham crackers. Mix well. Spread evenly into a 9" pie plate. Press onto bottom and sides to form a firm, even crust. Chill 1 hr or til firm OR bake in a 375 degree oven 4-5 min or til edge is lightly browned. Cool on wire rack before filling.

Filling:
2 pkg (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1/2 c sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
2 eggs

In mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla til smooth. Add eggs, beating on low til just combined. Pour into pie crust. Bake 25-30 min at 350 degrees or til center is almost set. Cool on wire rack 1 hr. Refrigerate overnight. Let stand at room temp for 30 min before slicing.

Makes 6-8 servings.

Chocolate Zucchini Brownies

2008-04-09T08:19:00.002-05:00

I like these zucchini brownies because they're really chocolaty, unlike many chocolate zucchini bars and cakes I've tried.

2 c shredded zucchini
1/2 c oil
2 Tbsp vanilla
1 1/2 c sugar
2 c flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 c cocoa powder

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix zucchini, oil, and vanilla. Mix dry ingredients together in a separate bowl. Add to oil mix. Mix by hand. Pour into greased and floured 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 for 25-35 min til done. Frost as desired.

Butter Pecan Turtle Bars

2008-04-08T13:04:00.003-05:00

Hubby's mom gave us this recipe.

Crust:
2 c flour
1 c firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 c butter, softened
2 c pecans

Caramel layer:
2/3 c butter
1/2 c brown sugar
1 c chocolate chips

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In lg mixer bowl, combine all crust ingredients except pecans. Beat at med speed til well mixed and particles are fine. Press on bottom of 9x13 pan. Sprinkle pecans evenly over unbaked crust.

In 1 qt saucepan combine butter and brown sugar. Cook over med heat, stirring constantlly, til entire surface of mixture begins to boil. Boil 1 min, stirring constantly. (Do not overcook!) Pour evenly over pecans and crust.

Bake 18-22 min or til entire caramel layer is bubbly. Remove from oven. Immediately sprinkle with chips. Allow to melt slightly (2-3 min). Swirl chips leaving some whole for a marbled effect. Cool completely; cut into bars. Makes 3 dozen.

Irish Soda Bread

2008-04-07T08:44:00.006-05:00

Slice of Irish soda bread pictured with corned beef and cabbage

I got this recipe from my friend Anne when it was posted online at Helium.com. It's so easy to make! Hubby and I especially like the brown bread version.

3 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
10 oz (1 1/4 cups) buttermilk or soured milk

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Grease a baking sheet or cover with parchment. Combine flour, soda and salt. Stir well and make sure there are no lumps. Add the buttermilk or soured milk and stir to for a sticky dough. Knead lightly on a floured surface - just a minute or so. Shape into a flat disc. Set onto baking sheet and score the top with a large X. Bake for 30 minutes or until browned nicely and hollow sounding when tapped on the bottom.

If you add raisins or sultanas to it, it's called Spotted Dog, or Spotted Dick; not to be confused with the suet pudding with the same name. If you use "whole meal" flour, aka whole wheat flour, it's then called Brown Bread.

I'm not sure how many servings Anne intended for it to be, but I got 12-18 slices.

Marshmallow Graham Bars

2008-04-03T08:24:00.004-05:00

This recipe is from Hubby's grandma. I think she makes these bars every Easter. It seems she always has them when we visit her and Grandpa in spring. :)

1 c sugar
2 beaten eggs
3/4 c butter
1 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 c graham cracker crumbs
2 1/2 c mini marshmallows (Grandma always uses the mulit-colored ones.)
1/2 c coconut
1/2 c chopped nuts

Place first 3 ingredients in a saucepan over low heat. Watch closely til butter is melted. Cook slowly for 3 min. Add vanilla. Cool slightly.

While mixture is cooling, mix together remaining ingredients. Pour sugar mixture over graham cracker mixture. Mix well.

Pour into buttered 9x13 pan. Refrigerate. Cut into bars. Makes 2-3 dozen.

Hubby's Good Iced Spiced Apple Biscuits

2008-04-02T08:02:00.005-05:00

Hubby came up with this recipe by modifying some other recipe he'd found. He made up the title, too. These biscuits are especially good warm.

2 c flour
1/4 c brown sugar
1 Tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/3 c shortening
1 apple, diced (no need to peel)
3/4 c plain yogurt

Icing:
1/3 c powdered sugar
1 Tbsp milk or half and half

Combine first 7 ingredients. Cut in shortening. Stir in apples and yogurt til moistened. Place in greased muffin pan. Bake at 425 degrees for 12-17 min or til golden brown.

Combine icing ingredients and drizzle over warm biscuits.

Makes 1 dozen.

Reese's Chewy Chocolate Cookies

2008-04-01T08:31:00.005-05:00

(This is the recipe from the back of the Reese's peanut butter chips package.)

2 c flour
3/4 c cocoa
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/4 c shortening
2 c sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1 10 oz pkg peanut butter chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir together flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt. In lg bowl, beat shortening and sugar til light and fluggy. Add eggs and vanilla. Beat well. Gradually add flour mixture, beating well. Stir in chips. Drop by rounded tsp onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 8-9 min. (Do not overbake. Cookies will be soft.) Cool slightly; remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely. Makes about 4 dozen.

Peanut Butter Fudge

2008-03-31T08:48:00.004-05:00

(This recipe is from the Quick Cooking 1999 cookbook.)

2 c sugar
1/2 c milk
1 1/3 c peanut butter
1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme

In a saucepan, bring sugar and milk to a boil; boil for 3 min. Add peanut butter and marshmallow creme; mix well. Quickly pour into a buttered 8" square pan; chill til set. Cut into squares. Makes 3-4 dozen.

Crock Pot Chili

2008-03-27T08:55:00.003-05:00

This is the only chili recipe I use. I like it because it's so easy to make in the crock pot. I like to serve it with cornbread on the side.

2 lbs ground beef, browned and drained
1 lg onion, chopped
2 tsp salt
1 Tbsp chili powder
2 bay leaves, optional
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
32 oz (4 - 8 oz cans) tomato sauce
4 - 16 oz cans kidney beans
water, optional

Put first 6 ingredients in crock pot. Rinse and drain 1 can of kidney beans. Put half of tomato sauce in blender. Add the rinsed kidney beans. Process til smooth. Pour into crock pot. Repeat process with another can of kidney beans and the rest of the tomato sauce. Rinse and drain remaining 2 cans of kidney beans. Add whole beans to crock pot. Stir ingredients in crock pot til well mixed. Cook for 6-8 hrs on HIGH so the flavors can really be released. If extra hotness is desired, substitute chili beans for the kidney beans.

Chili will be thick, not souplike unless you add water to the mixture. I like to add 1-2 c of water.

Makes 8-10 servings.

Additional optional ingredients*: chopped green pepper, 1-2 cans diced tomatoes

*Please note that if adding these ingredients, you may need a crock pot bigger than 4 qt.

Crock Pot Vegetable Stew

2008-03-26T14:37:00.001-05:00

I modified a recipe from one of my cookbooks to create this stew.

1 lb ground beef (browned and drained)
1 c chopped onion
1 jar (30 oz) meatless spaghetti sauce
3 1/2 c water
1 pkg (16 oz) frozen mixed vegetables
1 c sliced celery
1 tsp beef bouillion granules
1 tsp pepper
8 oz uncooked rotini pasta

Put all ingredients EXCEPT for pasta inot crock pot. Cover and cook on low 8 hrs or til veggies are tender. 30 min before stew is done, prepare pasta according to pkg directions. Drain pasta and add to stew. Mix well. Makes 12 servings (3 qts).

Basic Tomato Sauce

2008-03-25T10:39:00.003-05:00

This recipe is based on the one in the Sugarbusters book. I tweaked the amounts on a couple of things. The baking soda gives it a different taste, but it is needed to combat the acidity of the tomatoes since sugar isn't used. Green pepper, mushrooms, or meat can easily be added to make a heartier sauce.

Hubby loves this sauce!

1 med onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, chopped fine
2 Tbsp olive oil
28 oz can crushed tomatoes in puree
16 oz (2 - 8 oz cans) tomato sauce, no sugar added
1/2 c fresh basil, chopped OR 1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp baking soda
salt and pepper to taste

In med skillet, saute onion and garlic in oil til tender. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring to mix, while cooking over med heat. Add basil and baking soda, continuing to stir. Lower heat to a simmer. Add salt and pepper to taste, Simmer for 15 min, stirring frequently. Makes 5 c.

Grandma's Meatballs

2008-03-20T08:23:00.002-05:00

This definitely one of my comfort foods. I remember my grandma making these meatballs frequently when I was growing up (and she still does).

When I was young, she and my grandpa used to take us cousins camping with them every summer in their camper. These meatballs were always served at atleast one meal on our camping trip. One year I remember her saying that she made 72 meatballs for us hungry campers!

We usually serve mashed potatoes with this. The recipe's gravy is so good served over the potatoes!

When my grandma gave me this recipe, it didn't have amounts for the minced onion, cracker crumbs, or ketchup. I don't usually measure how much of them I put in the recipe, but I've included estimated amounts for each.

The recipe can easily be doubled (or tripled or more).

1 lb ground beef (thawed)
1 egg
minced onioin (about 1 Tbsp)
cracker crumbs (about 1/3 c)
ketchup (about 1 Tbsp)
1 can tomato soup
1 can cream of mushroom soup

In a bowl, mix together first 5 ingredients. Shape into balls and place in 9x13 pan. Mix together soups in a bowl and add a little water so that the soup mixture is pourable. Pour soup mixture over meatballs, covering all. Cover pan with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hr or til meatballs are done. Makes about 24 meatballs.

Finger Jello (aka Jello Jigglers)

2008-03-19T08:13:00.002-05:00

2 1/2 c boiling water
4 pkg jello (4 servings each)

Mix together, stirring til gelatin is dissolved. Pour into 9x13 pan. (I like to spray the pan lightly with cooking spray first so the jello doesn't stick.) Chill til set. Makes 24 servings.

Scotch Eggs

2008-03-18T08:16:00.003-05:00

I remember my stepmom making these for breakfast. I love them!

6 hard boiled eggs
1 lb ground pork sausage with seasonings
corn flake crumbs

Peel eggs. Wrap sausage around eggs and roll in crumbs. Bake at 350 degrees til sausage is done (30-40 min), turning occasionally.

Puppy Chow

2008-03-17T08:26:00.005-05:00

This snack never lasts long at our house! The kids ask me for it often, and it's easy for them to help make.

9 c corn or rice Chex or Crispix
1 c chocolate chips
1/2 c peanut butter
1/4 c butter
1 1/2 c powdered sugar

Microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter 1 min. Stir. Microwave in 30 second increments, stirring in between til smooth. Pour chocolate mixture over cereal in lg bowl. Stir til coated. Add powdered sugar; stir til coated. Store in airtight container.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Onions

2008-03-14T07:32:00.006-05:00

This recipe is so simple but so delicious! The first time I made it, Hubby and I were amazed at how good it was!

sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into small chunks
onion, sliced into half or quarter rings
spray oil/cooking spray (like Pam)
salt
pepper

Spray a large baking sheet with oil. Place sweet potatoes and onions in a single layer on baking sheet. (Use whatever amount you need for the number of people you're serving so that the onions make up 1/4-1/3 of the sweet potatoes and onions combined.) Spray sweet potatoes and onions with oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 400 degrees for 20-25 min or til potatoes are tender, stirring once or twice. Serve immediately.

Maple Sandwich Cookies

2008-03-12T07:53:00.004-05:00

1 c butter or margarine, softened
3/4 c packed brown sugar
1 egg
1/4 tsp maple flavoring
2 c flour
sugar

Filling:
1 1/4 c powdered sugar
2 Tbsp milk
2 Tbsp butter or margarine, softened
1/2 tsp maple flavoring

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and brown sugar. Beat in the egg, maple flavoring, and flour; mix well. Shape into 1" balls. Roll in sugar. Place up 2" apart on ungreased baking sheets. Flatten with smooth bottom of a glass. Bake at 325 degrees for 10-12 min or til golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Combine filling ingredients in a small mixing bowl; beat til smooth. Spread on the bottom half of the cookies; top with remaining cookies. Makes about 3 dozen.

Caramel Creams

2008-03-11T07:48:00.003-05:00

(This recipe is from the Best of Country Cookies cookbook.)

1 c butter (no substitutes), softened
2/3 c packed brown sugar
2 egg yolks
1/2 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 c flour
1/3 c finely chopped pecans
1/4 tsp salt

Filling:
2 Tbsp plus 1 1/2 tsp butter (no substitutes)
1 1/2 c powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
2-3 Tbsp whipping cream

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and brown sugar. Beat in egg yolks and vanilla. Combine flour, pecans, and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Shape into two 10" rolls; wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 1-2 hrs. Unwrap and cut into 1/4" slices. Place 2" apart on ungreased bakin sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 11-13 min or til golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool.

For filling, heat butter in a saucepan over med heat til golden brown. Remove from heat; add powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough cream to achieve spreading consistency. Spread on the bottom half of the cookies; top with remaining cookies. Makes about 3 dozen.

Double-Decker Brownies

2008-03-10T09:41:00.002-05:00

1 c butter (no substitutes), softened
2 c packed brown sugar
3 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
2 c flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 squares (1 oz each) unsweetened chocolate, melted

Frosting:
1/4 c butter (no substitutes)
2 squares (1 oz each) unsweetened chocolate
2 c powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
2-3 Tbsp milk

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and brown sugar. Add eggs; beat well. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture.

Divide batter in half. Stir chocolate into one portion; spread into a greased 13x9" pan. Spread remaining batter evenly over top. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 min or til brownies begin to pull away from sides of pan. Cool on a wire rack.

In a saucepan, melt butter and chocolate. Remove from heat. Stir in powdered sugar, vanilla, and enough milk to reach spreading consistency. Frost cooled brownies; cut. Makes 3 dozen.

Frosted Cinnamon Zucchini Bars

2008-03-07T12:38:00.003-06:00

I love to make these bars every summer when the zucchini from our garden is ready. The cakey bar tastes like coconut cake and is so good!

3/4 c butter or margarine, softened
1/2 c sugar
1/2 c packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 3/4 c flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 c shredded zucchini
1 c flaked coconut

Frosting:
2 c powdered sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 Tbsp butter or margarine, melted
1 tsp vanilla
2-3 Tbsp milk

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugars. Add the eggs, beating well. Beat in vanilla. Combine flour and baking powder; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in zucchini and coconut. Spread into a greased 15x10x1" pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 min or til a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.

In a bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Stir in butter, vanilla, and enough milk til frosting reaches spreading consistency. Frost cooled bars; cut. Makes about 5 dozen.

Fudge Brownies

2008-03-06T07:55:00.001-06:00

1 1/4 c butter or margarine, softened
4 c sugar
8 eggs*
2 tsp vanilla
2 c flour
1 1/2 c baking cocoa
1 tsp salt

Frosting:
1/2 c butter or margarine
6 Tbsp milk
3 Tbsp baking cocoa
3 1/2 c powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add eggs; beat well. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, cocoa, and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture. Spread into greased 15x10x1" pan. Bake at 325 degrees for 40-45 min or til top springs back when lightly touched.

Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Remove from the heat; stir in milk and cocoa til smooth. Return to the heat and bring to a boil' boil for 4 min, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat; add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix well.

Frost warm brownies. Cool on wire rack before cutting. Makes 5 dozen.

*Yes, the number of eggs is correct.

Almond-Tipped Shortbread Fingers

2008-03-05T08:38:00.004-06:00

(This recipe is from the Best of Country Cookies cookbook.)

1 c butter (no substitutes), softened
3/4 c packed brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla
2 c flour
6 squares (1 oz each) white baking chocolate
1 1/4 c chopped almonds

In a mixing bowl, cream butter and brown sugar. Beat in vanilla. Gradually add flour. Shape 1/2 cupfuls of dough into 1/2" thick logs. Cut logs into 2" pieces. Place 2" apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 325 degrees for 15-17 min or til lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool. In a microwave or double boiler, melt chocolate. Dip one end of each cookie into chocolate, then into almonds. Place on waxed paper to harden. Makes 4 dozen.

Taco Pie

2008-03-03T08:32:00.003-06:00

This recipe was given to me at one of my bridal showers.

1 lb ground beef, browned and drained
1 pkg taco seasoning
1/2 c water

Simmer together 15 min covered. While meat is cooking ...

Pat one 8 oz tube of crescent rolls into a pie plate/pan. Crush 1 1/2-2 c plain corn chips. Put 1/2 the chips on the crescent roll dough, then the cooked and seasoned meat, then 1 c sour cream, 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese, and rest of chips. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 min. Makes 6-8 servings.

Pigs in a Blanket

2008-02-29T08:26:00.002-06:00

I remember eating these when I was a kid. My own kids gobble these right up!

8 hot dogs
8 strips of cheese
1 tube crescent rolls

Make a slit in each hot dog the length of the hot dog about 3/4 through the thickness of the hotdog, but don't cut through the ends. Put a strip of cheese in each slit. Roll each hot dog up in a crescent roll triangle and place on cookie sheet. Bake according to directions on crescent roll tube. Makes 8.

Monster Cookies

2008-02-28T12:18:00.005-06:00

When I was in college, some weekends my friends and I went home with a friend who lived much closer to school than we did. We often baked these cookies at her house and took them back to school with us.

Mix together:
6 eggs
2 c brown sugar
2 c sugar
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 tsp corn syrup
4 tsp baking soda
1 c butter

Stir in:
1 1/2 lbs peanut butter
9 c oatmeal
1 bag chocolate chips or M&M's (I like to substitute peanut butter chips or Reese's pieces sometimes.)

Drop on cookie sheet with Tbsp and flatten. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 min. Makes 90-100 cookies.

Oatmeal Scotchies

2008-02-27T09:29:00.005-06:00

I remember making these cookies with my Grandma when I was little.

2 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 c soft butter
2 eggs
1 1/2 c uncooked quick oats
1/2 tsp orange extract
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 c packed brown sugar
1 Tbsp water
6 oz butterscotch chips

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Combine butter, brown sugar, eggs, and water; beat til creamy. Gradually add flour mixture. Stir in oats, chips, and orange extract. Refrigerate 2-4 hrs. Drop on cookie sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 min. Makes about 4 dozen.

Cheesy Garlic Bread

2008-02-26T08:01:00.002-06:00

The cheesy garlic bread in this picture is shown with easy ministrone.

This garlic bread the tried and true standby in our house. As you can see, there are no defined measurements; I just eyeball them according to the number of people I'm serving.

bread (cut French or Italian bread -- Open-faced hamburger or hot dog buns work well, too!)
butter, softened (Use the real stuff. It's worth it!)
minced garlic
Italian seasoning
parmesan cheese or any type of shredded cheese

Mix softened butter and garlic together (ratio of about 1-2 garlic cloves per 4 Tbsp butter). Spread on bread. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and cheese. Broil in oven til bread is browned to desired doneness and cheese is melted (if using shredded).

Easy Minestrone

2008-02-25T08:07:00.004-06:00

The ministrone in this picture is shown with cheesy garlic bread.

I'm lucky that my older two kids like beans. Even J, who isn't fond of soup, will gobble this right up!

1 Tbsp butter
1 lg onion, chopped
3 med carrots, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 jar (28 oz) spaghetti sauce
4 c beef broth
1 can (16 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) garbanzo beans (chickpeas), rinsed and drained
1 c uncooked pasta (small shell or rotini work well)
2 tsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 c frozen green beans

In a Dutch oven or soup pot, sauted onion and carrots in butter til tender. Add garlic; cook 2 min longer.

Stir in spaghetti sauce, broth, and beans. Bring to a boil. Add remaining ingredients. Return to a boil and cook, uncovered, for 8-10 min or til pasta and green beans are tender. Makes 10 1 c servings (2 1/2 qts).

Herbed Slow Cooker Chicken

2008-02-22T08:21:00.003-06:00

(This recipe is from the Quick Cooking 2005 cookbook.)

1 Tbsp oilive oil
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp seasoned salt
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp browning sauce, optional4 bone-in chicken breast halves (6 oz each)*
1/2 c chicken broth

In a sm bowl, combine the first 8 ingredients; rub over chicken. Place in a 5 qt slow cooker; add broth. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hrs or until a meat thermometer reads 170 degrees. Makes 4 servings.

*I use 4 thawed boneless skinless chicken breasts.

Zucchini Soup

2008-02-21T07:51:00.003-06:00

4 med zucchini, shredded
1 med onion, chopped
4 Tbsp butter
2 1/2 c chicken broth
1 c milk (Skim works just fine.)
3/4 tsp salt
1/4-1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4-1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

In a lg skillet, saute the zucchini and onion in butter til tender. Stir in broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 12-15 min. Cool slightly.

Transfer to a blender; cover and process on low til smooth. Return to the skillet. Stir in the milk, salt, basil, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered 1-2 min or til heated through. Makes 6 servings.

Golden Diced Potatoes

2008-02-20T08:34:00.001-06:00

3/4 c flour
1 tsp seasoned salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp pepper
4 med-lg potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks (about 1/2" size)
1/2 c butter

Combine first 4 ingredients in a lg ziploc bag. Add potatoes; toss to coat. In lg skillet, melt butter. Add potatoes. Cook and stir over med heat 25-30 min or til potatoes are tender. Makes 6 servings.

Pumpkin Pie Dip

2008-02-19T07:45:00.003-06:00

(This recipe is from the Quick Cooking 2006 cookbook.)

1 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
2 c powdered sugar
1 c canned pumpkin*
1/2 c sour cream
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/2 tsp ground ginger
gingersnap cookies

In a lg mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar til smooth. Gradually add the pumpkin, sour cream, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice and ginger; beat til smooth. Serve with gingersnaps. Refrigerate leftovers. Makes 4 c.

*I use 1 c cooked pumpkin.

Penne Pasta and Kielbasa

2008-02-18T08:11:00.003-06:00

1 pkg (16 oz) penne pasta
1 lb fully cooked kielbasa, cut into 1/4" slices
2 med green peppers, chopped
1 med onion, chopped
1 jar (28 oz) meatless spaghetti sauce

Cook pasta according to pkg directions. Meanwhile, in a lg skillet, saute the kielbasa, peppers, and onion til vegetables are crisp tender. (No need to use oil. The grease from the kielbasa is enough to work.) Mix in spaghetti sauce. Drain pasta and stir in. Makes 6 servings.

Mozzarella Beef Roll-Ups

2008-02-15T08:09:00.003-06:00

(This recipe is from the Quick Cooking 2006 cookbook.)

1 lb ground beef
1 med green pepper, chopped
1/3 c chopped onion
1 can (8 oz) pizza sauce
28 slices pepperoni
1/2 tsp dried oregano
6 flour tortillas (10 in), warmed
6 pieces (1 oz each) string cheese

In a lg skillet, cook the beef, green pepper, and onion over med heat til the meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the pizza sauce, pepperoni, and oregano.

Spoon about 1/2 c beef mixture off-center on each tortilla; top with a piece of string cheese. Fold one side of each tortilla over filling and roll up from the opposite side. Place seam side down on an ungreased baking sheet.

Bake at 350 degrees for 10 min or til heated through and cheese is melted. Makes 6 servings.

Refried Bean Pizza

2008-02-14T08:27:00.002-06:00

1 tube refrigerated crescent rolls
1 can (16 oz) refried beans
1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilis
2 c (8 oz) shredded cheddar cheese

Unroll the crescent rolls on a 15x11" baking sheet and press perforations together, spreading the dough to get as close to the pan's edges as possible. Bake at 375 degrees for 11-13 min or til lightly browned. Combine refried beans and chilis; spread over crust to within 1/2" of edges. Top with cheese. Bake 5-8 min longer or til cheese is melted. Cut into slices. Makes 6 servings.

Apple Coffee Cake

2008-02-13T08:36:00.005-06:00

(This recipe is from the Quick Cooking 2005 cookbook.)

1/2 c butter, softened
1 c sugar
3 eggs
3 c flour
3 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 1/2 c milk
1 can (21 oz) apple pie filling
2 tsp cinnamon

Topping:
1/2 c chopped walnuts
1/4 c packed brown sugar
2 Tbsp butter, melted

Glaze:
3/4 c powdered sugar
1 Tbsp butter, softened
3/4 tsp vanilla
2-3 tsp water

In a lg mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat in eggs. Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk.

Pour half into a greased 13x9" baking dish. Combine the pie filling and cinnamon; spoon over batter. Drop the remaining batter over the filling; spread gently.

Combine topping ingredients; sprinkle over batter. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 min or til a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Combine glaze ingredients; drizzle over warm or cooled coffee cake. Makes 12-14 servings.

Cookies 'n' Cream Cake

2008-02-12T08:36:00.001-06:00

1 pkg (18 1/4 oz) white or yellow cake mix
16 Oreos, coarsely crushed

Prepare cake batter according to pkg directions; stir in crushed cookies. Spoon into a greased and floured bundt pan.* Bake at 350 degrees for 33-38 min or til a toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool completely before removing from pan. Frost with your choice of white frosting, cream cheese frosting, or whipped cream.

*May use a 9x13" baking pan or 2 round cake pans, but baking times will vary.

Rosemary Parmesan Bread

2008-02-11T08:54:00.001-06:00

1/2 c butter
1/2 c grated parmesan cheese
1 garlic clove, minced
fresh or dried rosemary
1 loaf (1 lb) French bread, halved lengthwise

Melt the butter. Stir in the cheese and garlic. Spread over cut side of bread. Sprinkle with rosemary. Place bread, cut side up, on and ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 min or til lightly browned. Slice and serve warm. Makes 14-16 servings.

Pineapple Chicken Lo Mein

2008-02-08T08:18:00.003-06:00

1 can (20 oz) unsweetened pineapple chunks
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1" cubes
2 garlic cloves, minced
3/4 tsp ground ginger OR 1 Tbsp minced fresh gingerroot
2 med carrots, julienned
1 med green pepper, julienned
4 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
1/2 c sliced onion
1 Tbsp cornstarch
1/3 c soy sauce
1 Tbsp oil

Drain pineapple, reserving 1/3 c juice; set pineapple aside. In a lg skillet over med heat, cook the chicken, garlic, and ginger for 6 min. Add the carrots, green pepper, and pineapple. Cover and cook for 2-3 min or til vegetables are crisp-tender and chicken juices run clear. Stir in spaghetti and onions.

In a sm bowl, combine the cornstarch, soy sauce, reserved pineapple juice, and oil til smooth. Stir into chicken mixture. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 min or til thickened. Makes 4 servings.

Orange Cashew Chicken

2008-02-07T14:29:00.003-06:00

I like to use larger amounts of the carrots and celery than are called for in the recipe.

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1" cubes
2 medium carrots, sliced
1/2 c chopped celery
2 Tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp ground ginger
3/4 c orange juice
1/4 c honey
3 Tbsp soy sauce
1/4-1/2 c salted cashews
hot cooked rice

In a lg skillet or wok, stir-fry chicken, carrots, and celery for 8-10 min or til juices run clear. (If skillet or wok is NOT non-stick, cook veggies in 2 Tbsp oil.) Reduce heat. In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, ginger, orange juice, honey, and soy sauce til blended. Stir into chicken mixture. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 min or til thickened. Stir in cashews. Serve over rice. Makes 4 servings.

Bacon Cheddar Pinwheels

2008-02-04T20:49:00.001-06:00

2 c flour
3 Tbsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/3 c shortening
3/4 c milk
1/4-1/2 c soft bacon bits
3/4 c shredded cheddar cheese

In a bowl, combine the four, baking powder, and salt; cut in shortening. Add milk and mix well. Turn onto a floured surface; knead 6-8 times. Rol into a 16x10" rectangle. Sprinkle with bacon and cheese.

Roll up from a long side. Cut into 15 slices; place cut side down in greased muffin cups. Bake at 450 degrees for 12-15 min or til golden brown. Serve warm. Refrigerate leftovers. Makes 15 rolls.

Italian Pork Hoagies

2008-02-04T20:18:00.002-06:00

Using the pork from this recipe makes these sandwiches even more drool-worthy! Mmmmmmmmmmmm!

6 hoagie buns, split*
1 small jar pizza sauce or spaghetti sauce
12 slices cooked pork roast (1/4" thick)
shredded mozzarella
Italian salad dressing (can use light version)

Open hoagie buns and place cut side up on baking sheet. Spread 2-3 Tbsp pizza sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Top each with 2 slices of pork side by side. Sprinkle 2-3 Tbsp shredded mozzarella on the pork. Drizzle 1-2 Tbsp Italian dressing on tops of each bun. Bake open-faced at 350 degrees for 5-10 min or til cheese is melted and buns are lightly toasted. Replace bun tops. Makes 6 servings.

*I like to use wheat buns, but you can use whatever kind you like.

Savory Pork Roast

2008-02-04T20:08:00.002-06:00

(This recipe is from the Quick Cooking 2003 cookbook.)

This pork loin is delicious on it's own, but it's even better when the leftovers are used to make this sandwich! You may even just want to make this roast specifically for the sandwich!

1 garlic clove, minced
2 tsp dried marjoram
1 tsp salt
1 tsp rubbed sage
1 boneless pork loin roast (4 lbs)

Combine the seasonings; rub over roast. Place on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 1 hr and 20 min or til a meat thermometer reads 160 degrees. Let stand 10-15 min before slicing. Makes 9-12 servings (or 3-4 servings plus leftovers).

One-Bowl Chocolate Cake with Frosting

2008-02-01T08:12:00.001-06:00

I combined 2 recipes to come up with this super moist, easy, delicious frosted devil's food-type cake. The cake recipe is from the Quick Cooking 1999 cookbook.

2 c flour
2 c sugar
1/2 c baking cocoa
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 c vegetable oil*
1 c buttermilk**
2 eggs
1 c hot water

Frosting:
6 Tbsp butter (softened)
1/2 c baking cocoa
2 2/3 c powdered sugar
1/3 c milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
additional powdered sugar

In a lg bowl, combine dry ingredients. Stir in oil, buttermilk, and eggs. Add water and stir til combined. Pour into a greased 9x13" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-38 min or til a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool completely.

In a sm mixing bowl, cream butter. Add cocoa and powdered sugar and milk. Beat together, adding additional powdered sugar til you achieve the consistency you desire. Frost cake.

Makes 20-24 servings.

*I use olive oil in place of vegetable oil.

**Since I usually don't have buttermilk, I put 1 Tbsp lemon juice in a measuring cup and fill the remainder with milk up to the 1 c mark. Let milk mixture sit for 5 minutes to curdle before adding to the cake mix.

Crispy Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars

2008-01-31T08:39:00.001-06:00

I modified a recipe in one of my cookbooks and added frosting and came up with these bars.

10 c rice krispies
1 1/2 c corn syrup
1 c sugar
1 c brown sugar
2 c peanut butter, divided
1 pkg (12 oz) semisweet chocolate chips

Put rice krispies in a very lg bowl. In a saucepan, combine corn syrup and sugars; bring to a boil. Boil for 1 min. Remove from heat and stir in 1 c peanut butter. Pour over rice krispies and mix. Press into a greased 15x10" pan. Put remaining peanut butter and chocolate chips into microwave safe bowl. Heat 1 min in microwave. Stir. Heat an additional 30 seconds. Stir til smooth. Pour over top of bars and spread. Cool and cut into bars. Makes 3 dozen.

Italian Bow Tie Supper

2008-01-30T10:43:00.001-06:00

(This recipe is from the Quick Cooking 2002 cookbook.)

This delicious recipe tastes like lasagna in a crock pot.

1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 med onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
1 can (14 1/2 oz) stewed tomatoes, cut up
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp Italian seasoning
salt and pepper to taste
1 pkg (16 oz) bow tie pasta, cooked and drained
1 pkg (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed and well drained
1 1/2 c (6 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese

In a skillet, cook the beef, onion, and garlic over med heat til meat is no longer pink; drain. Transfer to a slow cooker. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomatoes, and seasonings. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hrs or til bubbly.

Increase heat to high; stir in pasta, spinach, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Cover and cook for 10 min or til heated through and cheese is melted. Makes 6-8 servings.

Bacon Cheeseburger Rice

2008-01-29T09:45:00.004-06:00

I was skeptical about this recipe before trying it, especially because of the pickles. (Who puts pickles in a hot dish?!) But after making and eating it, I must say that it really IS delicious!

1 lb ground beef
1 3/4 c water
2/3 c barbeque sauce
1 Tbsp prepared mustard
2 tsp dried minced onion
1/2 tsp pepper
2 c uncooked instant rice
1 c (4 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
1/3 c chopped dill pickles
3 Tbsp soft bacon bits

Brown beef in skillet til no longer pink; drain. Add water, barbeque sauce, mustard, onion, and pepper. Bring to a boil; stir in the rice. Sprinkle with cheese. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 5 min. Sprinkle with pickles and bacon bits. Makes 4-6 servings.

Chocolate Eclair Torte

2008-01-26T13:26:00.003-06:00

This recipe reminds me of the version my mom made when I was little.

2 small boxes instant vanilla pudding
1 lg tub Cool Whip (can use light or fat free)
3 c milk
1 box graham crackers
1 can chocolate frosting

Line bottom of a 9x13" pan with whole graham crackers. Mix pudding with milk. Fold in Cool Whip. Alternate layers of whole graham crackers with the pudding mixture. Final layer should be graham crackers. Ice the top player with melted chocolate frosting (microwave 1 minute). Refrigerate to let set. Keep refrigerated.

Unstuffed Pepper Soup

2008-01-25T08:20:00.001-06:00

It really does taste like stuffed peppers!

1 lb ground beef
3 lg green peppers, chopped
1 lg onion
2 c water
4 tsp beef boullion
2 cans (10 3/4 oz each) condensed tomato soup, undiluted
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, undrained
1 can (4 oz) mushroom stems and pieces, drained
1 1/2 c cooked rice

In a Dutch oven or lg saucepan, brown beef with green peppers and onions til beef is done and vegetables are tender; drain. Stir in water, boulllion, soup, tomatoes, and mushrooms. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 30 min, stirring occasionally. Add rice; heat through. Makes 10 servings.

Creamy Corned Beef Bake

2008-01-24T09:07:00.001-06:00

I love corned beef, and this is a delicious alternative to a traditional corned beef and cabbage meal! I've also posted a traditional corned beef meal here.

1 1/2 c cubed cooked corned beef OR 1 can (12 oz) cooked corned beef
1 can (10 3/4 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup, undiluted
8 oz Velveeta-type cheese, cubed
1 pkg (8 oz) small shell pasta, cooked and drained
1 c milk
1/2 c chopped onion
2 bread slices, torn into small pieces
2 Tbsp butter or margarine, melted

In a bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Transfer to a greased 2 qt baking dish. Toss bread cubes with butter; sprinkle over topp. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 40-45 min or til golden brown. Let stand for 10 min before serving. Makes 4 servings.