Last recipes for the New Year

Some tasty appetizers for you –

================

Dessert Cheese Ball
(Confetti Cookie Dough Ball)

1 1/2 blocks cream cheese,
softened
4 T. (1/2 stick) butter, softened
1/2 C. powdered sugar
1/4 C. packed brown sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 C. mini chocolate chips
3/4 C. assorted sprinkles
–
Nilla wafers & pretzels for dipping
=
In large bowl using elec. mixer, beat
cream cheese & butter until light &
fluffy. Beat in powdered sugar, brown
sugar & vanilla – fold in choc. chips.
On a work surface, place 2 overlapping
sheets of plastic wrap. Scrape cookie
dough mixture onto sheets. Using your
hands, form mixture into a ball then
place in a small bowl – cover tightly
with plastic wrap & refrigerate until
firm, 3 hours. (once it’s semi-firm,
about 2 hours, you can better shape
it into a ball).
In a small bowl pour sprinkles. When
ready to serve, transfer ball to a serving
platter & cover ball entirely with sprinkles.
(if your ball is firm enough to roll, you
could roll it in sprinkles).
Serve with Nilla wafers & pretzels.
Serves 10-12

(recipe: delish.com)
———————————-

Crab Cakes

8 oz lump crab meat
1/3 C. cracker crumbs
1/4 C. bell pepper, chopped
1 green onion, finely chopped
(more for garnish)
1 egg
3 T. mayonnaise
1 T. Old Bay seasoning
2 tsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/8 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/3 C. vegetable oil (for frying)
flour – for dusting
lemon wedges – for serving
–
Sauce:
1/2 C. mayonnaise
2 T. scallions, chopped
1 T. Dijon mustard
1 T. garlic, minced
1 T. relish (or chopped dill pickles)
1 tsp. pickle juice
1/2 tsp. hot sauce (or more, to taste)
1/4 tsp. smoked paprika
a splash of Worcestershire sauce
kosher salt, to taste
–
Cakes:
In large bowl mix all ingredients except
flour & oil – shape mixture into patties.
Dust patties with flour & place in a single
layer on a plate – chill 30 minutes.
–
When ready to cook: heat oil in a large
skillet over medium heat (when oil is hot:)
carefully place crab cakes in pan & fry
2-4 minutes, until golden brown. Carefully
flip crab cakes & fry on other side until
golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-
lined plate to drain then serve with sauce,
chopped green onion & lemon wedges
Serves 4

Sauce:
Mix all ingredients for sauce in a medium
bowl until well combined. Keep refrigerated
until ready to serve.

(recipe: realhousemoms.com)
————————————
Beer-Cheese Dip

1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/4 C. Ranch salad dressing
1/4 C. beer
1 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
2 green onions, chopped
=
Dippers:
crackers
cut up fresh veggies
=
In medium bowl beat cream cheese,
Ranch dressg & beer using an elec.
mixer until blended. Stir in cheese &
onions & refrigerate several hours
until chilled. Serves 15

(recipe: kraftrecipes.com)
———————————
2-Bite Nacho Cups
(appetizers)

1/2 C. milk
12 slices American cheese, chopped
120 small round tortilla chips (about
6 C.)
1/2 C. Pico de Gallo
1/2 C. guacamole
–
Suggested garnishes:
sour cream
chopped fresh cilantro
=
In small microwaveable bowl, micro-
wave milk on High 1 min.; stir in chopped
cheese & microwave 1 minutes until cheese
is completely melted & sauce is well blended,
stirring after 30 seconds. In a 24-cup paper-
lined muffin tin stand 5 chips, overlapping
as necessary to fit inside cups. Spoon 1 T.
cheese sauce into each cup & top with 1 tsp
EACH Pico de Gallo & guacamole. Garnish
with optional garnishes. Serves 24

(recipe: kraftrecipes.com)
—————————————-
Sesame Chicken Bites
(appetizers)

Sauce:
3/4 C. mayonnaise
4 tsp. honey
1 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard

Chicken:
1/2 C. dry bread crumbs
1/4 C. sesame seeds
2 tsp. minced fresh parsley
1/2 C. mayonnaise
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. ground mustard
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken
breasts, cut into 1″ cubes
2-4 T. canola oil
–
In small bowl mix all sauce
ingredients – refrigerate until
serving.
–
In a shallow bowl mix bread crumbs,
sesame seeds & parsley. In another
shallow bowl mix mayo & seasonings.
Dip chicken into mayo mixture then into
crumb mixture, patting to help coating
adhere to all sides.
In large cast-iron or other heavy skillet
heat 2 T. oil over medium-high heat.
Add chicken & cook, in batches, until
chicken is no longer pink, turning
occasionally & adding additional oil
as needed. Drain on paper towels.
Serve with sauce.
Makes about 2 1/2 dozen bites with
3/4 C. sauce

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
——————————–
Mini Crab Tarts

2 (1.9 oz, ea) pkgs. frozen miniature
phyllo tart shells
1 large egg
1/4 C. milk
1/4 C. mayonnaise
1 T. flour
1/8 tsp. salt
1 (6 oz) can lump crabmeat, drained
(& checked for bits of shell)
2 T. shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 T. chopped green onion
(thinly sliced green onions – optional)
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Place tart shells in an ungreased 15 X 10 X
1 inch baking pan. In small bowl whisk
egg, milk, mayo, flour & salt until smooth.
Stir in crab, cheese & chopped onion – spoon
into tart shells. Bake 9-11 minutes until set.
Garnish with sliced onions, if using. Serve
warm. Makes 30

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
————————————
Buffalo Wing Poppers

20 jalapeno peppers
1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 C. shredded mozzarella cheese
1 C. cooked/diced chicken
1/2 C. Blue Cheese salad dressing
1/2 C. buffalo wing sauce
–
Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Spray a 15 X 10 X 1″ baking pan
with nonstick cooking spray.
Cut peppers in half lengthwise, leaving
stems intact (discard seeds). In small
bowl combine remaining ingredients;
pipe or spoon filling into pepper halves
& place in prepared pan. Bake, uncovered,
20 minutes for spicy flavor; 30 for medium
flavor & 40 minutes for mild.
Makes 40

NOTE: wear disposable gloves when cutting
peppers – the oils can burn the skin. Avoid
touching your face while handling these
peppers.

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
—————————–

Ham & Brie Pastries

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1/3 C. apricot preserves
4 slices deli ham, quartered
8 oz. Brie cheese, cut into 16
pieces
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Cover a baking sheet with
parchment paper.
On lightly floured surface, unfold
puff pastry. Roll pastry to 12 inch
square; cut into sixteen 3-inch
squares. Place 1 tsp. preserves in
center of each square & top with
ham & cheese, folding if necessary.
Overlap 2 opposite corners of pastry
over filling & pinch tight to seal –
place on prepared baking sheet.
Bake 15-20 minutes until golden
brown. Cool on pan 5 minutes
before serving. Makes 16

Freezer option:
Freeze cooled pastries in a freezer
container, separating layers with
waxed paper. To use: reheat pastries
on a baking sheet in preheated
400 degrees F. oven until heated
through.

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
——————————-
Bacon/Cheddar Scones

5 slices bacon, cooked/crumbled
2 C. flour
1 T. baking powder
1 tsp. ground mustard
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
3/4 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1 stick butter (8 T or 1/2 C., softened)
2 eggs
1/3 C. chopped onion
1/2 C. sour cream
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
In large bowl whisk flour, baking powder,
mustard, salt/pepper, cheese & half the
crumbled bacon. Cut in butter until
mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Beat
eggs in a small bowl using a fork; add eggs,
onions & sour cream to bowl & mix well until
dough is wet & forms a ball in the bowl. Spray
a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray &
place dough on sheet. Press dough with your
hands into a circle about 1/2 inch thick. Sprinkle
remaining bacon & press into dough. Cut dough
into 8 triangles (poster uses a pizza cutter). Bake
20-25 minutes until browned on top. Makes 8

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
======================

It’s a quiet day here – woke up to temps in
the mid 20’s and some snow on the ground –
thank heavens it melted when we got out
of church! YAY! (there’s still a little on the
ground, but nothing big).

We don’t have any special plans for New
Year’s – middle son has to work until 11 p.m.
(he’s a front desk clerk at a Hilton Hotel). I
have some chilled shrimp for husband & I,
just for fun – that’s it!

Hope you are having a good/relaxing day.
Pretty soon it will be a NEW year! (Felt
funny saying to a friend as we left church –
see you NEXT YEAR!).

Hugs;

Pammie

PS: Almost forgot! Gas today was $1.95/9 – WOW!

Lots ‘o Appetizers!

Sausage & Cheddar Deviled Eggs

6 large eggs
1/2 lb. bulk sausage
1/4 C. shredded sharp Cheddar
cheese (plus additional for garnish)
1 tsp. Honey Dijon mustard
1/2 C. mayonnaise
paprika – garnish
–
Place eggs in a saucepan – fill with
water to cover eggs – bring to a boil
then reduce heat & cook eggs 15
minutes. *Drain under cold water &
let eggs cool completely before
removing shells. Peel shells from
eggs & cut eggs in half, lengthwise –
scoop out yolks into a large bowl.
Place egg white halves on a plate.

*While eggs are cooking, cook sausage
in a large skillet, crumble & cook until
no longer pink; drain.

With egg yolks in bowl mash yolks,
mayo, mustard, Cheddar cheese & 1/2
C. cooked sausage – mix until combined
& desired texture is reached. Spoon
mixture into egg white halves. Garnish
with more Cheddar cheese & paprika.
Serves 12

(recipe: ourtableforseven.com)
——————————-
Buffalo Shrimp Dip

11-14 oz. raw shrimp-cleaned/peeled/
thawed if frozen -chopped into small
pieces
1/2 C. diced onion
2 jalapeno peppers, seeded/stems
removed/chopped
1 C. fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 – 1 tsp. oil or butter for sauteing
4 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/4 C. beer (plus extra 1/2 C. , as
needed)
1 T. melted butter
3 T. hot sauce (extra, to your taste)
3 oz. grated Pepper Jack cheese
2 oz. grated sharp Cheddar cheese
–
garnish-chopped spinach & red pepper
flakes
–
Crackers, for dipping
=
In skillet over medium-high heat add a
little oil & saute onion & jalapenos. Add
chopped spinach (or add at end to insure
it stays bright green). Add shrimp & cook
1-3 minutes until opaque. Add cream cheese
& beer – stir to combine, reducing heat to
medium. Add butter, hot sauce & grated
cheeses – stir well until hot & melted, adding
extra beer as desired to thin sauce. Pour into
a serving bowl & garnish with chopped spinach
& red pepper flakes (if desired). (You can also
add a drizzle of hot sauce on top, if desired).
Serves 10

(recipe: peasandcrayons.com)
————————————-

Baked Brie w/Maple-glazed
Walnuts

1 (8 oz) wheel of Brie cheese
1/2 C. walnuts
2 T. maple syrup
dash salt
dash pepper
–
Dippers:
assorted crackers, apple
slices or hunks of baguette
=
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Place Brie on a baking sheet lined
with foil – bake 15 minutes.
NOTE: once Brie has baked for 10 minutes:
To a small skillet add: walnuts, maple syrup,
salt/pepper & cook over medium heat, stirring
frequently until syrup has evaporated. Allow
Brie to cool a few minutes then transfer to
a serving dish & spoon glazed walnuts on top.
Serve immediately with assorted crackers &
dippers.

(recipe: lydioutloud.com)
———————————-
Mexican Won ton Appetizers

1/2 lb. Italian turkey sausage
1/2 lb. ground turkey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 1/2 C. shredded Jalapeno cheese
(Kraft)
3/4 C. thick/chunky salsa
48 won ton wrappers*
=
In large skillet crumble sausage &
ground turkey; cook on Medium-high
heat 10 minutes until no longer pink,
stirring frequently; drain. Add garlic,
cumin – cook & stir 2 minutes. Add cheese
& salsa; cook 2-3 minutes until cheese is
melted & mixture is well blended, stirring
frequently. Cool slightly.
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Cover baking sheets with foil & spray with
nonstick cooking spray. Place 8 won ton
wrappers in a single layer on a work surface.
Spoon 2 level teaspoons filling onto center
of each wrapper. Brush edges of wrappers
with water & fold diagonally in half (making
a triangle). Firmly press edges together to
seal & place on prepared sheets. Spray
tops lightly with additional cooking spray &
repeat with remaining wrappers & filling.
Bake 12-15 minutes until crisp & golden
brown, turning after 7 minutes. Place on
paper towels to drain. Serves 24

* you can usually find won ton wrappers in
the vegetable section (usually refrigerated)
in the grocery store

(recipe: kraftrecipes.com)
———————————-
Mini Loaded Tater Tot Appetizers

half of a (32 oz) pkg. Ore-Ida Tater
Tots  (about 48 tots)
3/4 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 C. sour cream
4 slices bacon; cooked/crumbled
2 green onions, sliced
–
Preheat oven 450 degrees F.
Spray 24 mini muffin cups with
nonstick cooking spray & place
2 tater tots in each tin. Place
muffin pan on bottom oven rack
& bake 10 minutes. Spray the
bottom of a shot glass (or other
small glass*) with nonstick cooking
spray & press tater tots (using a
twisting motion) to make potato
cups. Return to oven & bake 15
minutes longer until deep golden
brown. Add cheese to cups; bake
1 minutes until cheese is melted.
Transfer to a serving platter &
fill cups with remaining ingredients.
Serves 12

*You can also use the back of a large
metal spoon

Serving tip: Spoon sour cream into
a small ziplock plastic bag; snip off
one bottom corner of bag & use to
pipe sour cream into potato cups
before topping with bacon & green
onions.

(recipe: kraftrecipes.com)
==================

Woke up to some snow on the ground
today and temps in the 20’s – WHERE did
THAT come from? I thought they said it
was supposed to be in the 40/50’s this
weekend! Surprise!!!

Slow, quiet weekend – hope you’re in
good health and RELAXING!

Hugs;

Pammie

(more appetizers following –
probably tomorrow!)

 

The Gift that almost wasn’t – and still might not be!

For Christmas my oldest son decided that the perfect gift for me would be a remote car starter (YES! GREAT idea!) He paid for the deal, made the appointment to take my car in – that was yesterday. Husband drove my car, arrived on time, waited 45 minutes before being told they didn’t have the part, can he come back tomorrow? (that would be today – Thurs.) Husband drove to place again; 1 hour later he drove home with the part installed so he called me to come out so he could ‘explain how it works’! Made sense so we sat in my car while he demonstrated then I did it, maybe twice. He noticed that my car radio was showing the wrong time (he had re-set it when he drove it home). Tried the starter again – noticed the dash board display lights were flashing – strange! Next time he tried it – total BLANK – no car running/no lights/ no NOTHING! Car was DEAD! He called the place & they suggested he wait a few minutes & try it again…VERY LONG STORY shorter – man called the manufacturer (who said they never heard of that happening before!). They suggested he disconnect the battery & reconnect (which is called a ‘hard-start’) so husband did…car started right up. Shut it off, tried using remote starter – crazy lights/dead car…again. This went on for a good 20 minutes; finally husband called the place and said he will start it up THE REGULAR WAY & attempt to drive it to the install place (which is maybe 7 minutes away). They said it might be that particular unit so they will put in a new one…..SO THE CRAZY SAGA CONTINUES! Sure hope we finally have a car with remote start but husband & I agreed – if it doesn’t work – YANK THAT SUCKER OUT & GIVE MY SON BACK HIS MONEY . . . it ain’t worth all the trouble! UGH!

Hugs;

a very frustrated Pammie

END OF STORY:

Husband managed to get the car started &
back to the shop – turns out it was a small
pin that popped out when they plugged the
unit in. They ran it/tested, etc. for an hour –
it works just fine NOW! YAY!

Nice and quiet – strangely so…

Of all the Christmases I’ve lived through, this had to be the most ‘unusual/quiet’ one I’ve had. Middle son has moved to his girlfriend’s (plus he had to work 2-10 p.m.) so we didn’t see him at all. Youngest spent the entire day & night sleeping! Husband & I had fun in the kitchen cooking; he had the local radio station on so the house was full of ‘fun’ Christmas songs while we peeled & chopped potatoes for his Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Our original time for Christmas Dinner at oldest son’s was supposed to be 3 p.m. but he texted saying they were running late and would we mind if it was 4:30/5 p.m.? NOT AT ALL! Gave us more time! Dinner at their house was VERY small & quiet as well; her parents didn’t come (not exactly sure why – something about their new puppy couldn’t be left alone . . . that was the story at Thanksgiving also – I don’t know, just felt bad for oldest son’s girlfriend, as she would have liked to have her parents there also.) As it was it was his family (4) and husband & I (2) – let’s just say we had WAaaaaaay too much food! I made a huge spinach salad that would have fed at least 8; his Prime Rib was wonderful along with his grilled Asparagus with Balsamic Wine reduction – tons of food and (of course) we all over-ate! LOTS of leftovers for the next few days, for sure!

Lots more recipes to share – I guess I should insert here (as I do every few months) The recipes on my blog (for the most part) are NOT my recipes – at the end of the recipes is the site link for the originator of said recipe. The recipes I post are ones that sound really tasty to me and, hopefully, somewhat easy to put together, too.

===============

Cookie Dough Fudge

1 stick butter, softened
3/4 C. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 C. flour
1 tsp. kosher salt
1 1/4 C. mini chocolate chips,
divided
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed
milk
1 1/2 C. white chocolate, melted
–
Spray a 8 X 8″ baking pan with
nonstick cooking spray & line with
parchment paper. In large bowl using
elec. mixer, beat butter, sugar & vanilla
until smooth. Add flour & salt; beat
until combined. Stir in 1 C. mini choc.
chips. In another large bowl mix sweeten’d
cond. milk & melted white chocolate – fold
into cookie dough mixture & pour into prepared
pan – top with remaining 1/4 C. mini choc. chips.
Refrigerate until fudge is firm – about 2 hours.
Remove from pan by lifting edges of parchment
paper then cut into squares. Makes about 15
squares.

(recipe: delish.com)
——————————-
Crockpot Potato Cheese Soup
(4 ingredients!)

2 (28 oz, ea) bags frozen Potatoes O’Brien
(shredded/or diced potatoes w/ onions & peppers)
2 (32 oz, ea) boxes chicken broth
2 (10 oz, ea) cans cream of chicken soup
2 (8 oz, ea) pkgs. cream cheese, cut into
chunks.
–
Place potatoes, broth cream cheese chunks
& soup in crockpot. Stir, cover & cook on High
2 hours (or Low 3 hours). Stir well before
serving. Serves 12-15 (generously)

(recipe: jamiecooksitup.net)
————————————-

Greek Feta Dip

12 oz. feta cheese
1 C. Greek yogurt
1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese,
softened
1/4 C. olive oil, plus more
for drizzling
juice & zest of 1 lemon
kosher salt
pinch crushed red pepper flakes
2 T. freshly chopped dill,
plus more for garnish
1/2 C. chopped cucumber
1/2 C. halved cherry tomatoes
–
Pita chips, for dipping
–
In large bowl using elec. mixer, beat
feta cheese, Greek yogurt, cream cheese,
oil, lemon juice & zest until fluffy & combined.
Season with salt & red pepper flakes; stir in dill.
Transfer dip to a serving bowl & top with chopped
cucumber, tomatoes, dill & a drizzle of oil. Serve
with pita chips. Serves 8

(recipe: delish.com)
——————————

Bundt Cake Breakfast

1 C. cooked/diced ham
2 c. tater tots, still frozen
12 eggs, whisked
1 can (8) Pillsbury Grands biscuits,
diced – still raw dough
2 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1/4 C. milk
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Spray a bundt pan with nonstick
cooking spray. Mix all ingredients
together & pour into prepared pan.
Bake 45 minutes; remove from oven
& lay a serving plate on top of Bundt
pan. Invert pan so that breakfast is
now on the serving plate. Serve warm.

NOTE from poster: you can use any meats
or veggies; the key is not to add too much
bread – tater tots add just the right amount
of potatoes – they shred up & you would
think they were hash browns without making
it dense.

(recipe: americantimesfood.com)

---

Chicken Pot Pie SOUP!

3 chicken breasts, cut into small
chunks
3 carrots, peeled/chopped into
chunks
3 medium potatoes, peeled/chopped
small chunks
2 stalks celery, chopped
pinch salt/pepper
2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp. dried)
3 1/2 C. chicken stock OR (3 1/2 C. water +
3 bouillon cubes)
3 T. unsalted butter
1 large onion, finely chopped
1/2 C. minus 1 T. flour
1 1/4 C. milk
juice of 1 lemon
1 small bunch fresh thyme
–
In large pot add chicken, carrots,
potatoes, celery, salt/pepper,
thyme & stock – bring to boil &
allow to simmer 15 minutes –
turn off heat. When nearly cooked,
in another saucepan add butter &
onions – heat on medium heat – cook
5-6 minutes until soft. Add flour into
onions & stir to form a creamy paste,
cook, stirring, 1 minute then add a
ladle of stock from chicken broth
(try to get mostly stock, not chicken/
veggies). Whisk, adding stock, until
you have ladled out most of stock
from chicken pan (leaving chic &
veggies behind). Pour milk into sauce
mixture; heat through while stirring
with whisk. (Sauce should thicken slightly
as it’s heating). Once sauce is almost
boiling (do NOT let it boil); pour it back
into pan with chicken & veggies. Bring
heat to almost boiling & add in half of
lemon juice – stir & taste – add rest of
lemon juice if needed. Season with salt/
pepper & top with a sprig of fresh thyme
before serving. Serves 5-6

(recipe: kitchensanctuary.com)
————————————–

Cheesy Mushroom & Broccoli
Casserole

3 T. butter
2 T. flour
1/2 lb. Shiitake or Baby Bella
mushrooms, sliced
1/4 C. onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 1/2 C. heavy cream
1/2 C. chicken stock
1 (10 oz) box frozen chopped
broccoli, thawed/drained
2 C. shredded Cheddar-Monterey
Jack blend cheese
3 C. cooked rice
salt/pepper
–
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
Butter a 1 1/8 qt. oval casserole
dish. In large pot, melt 3 T. butter
& flour over medium heat until
golden in color, making a quick
roux. The roux should resemble
the color of peanut butter. Add
mushrooms, onion, garlic, garlic
powder, cayenne pepper, heavy
cream & chicken stock. Add
broccoli, 1 C. cheese & rice.
Season with salt/pepper, to
taste. Pour into prepared dish &
top with remaining cheese. Bake
until cheese is melted & golden,
about 20 minutes.
Serves 6-8

(recipe: foodnetwork.com)
———————————-

Tomato & Shrimp Pasta

1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled/deveined
8 oz. spaghetti, uncooked (or any pasta
you desire)
1 clove garlic, finely minced
4 medium tomatoes, cored/seeded &
cut into 1″ pieces
2 T. coarsely chopped fresh basil
3 T. olive oil, divided
1/2 C. shredded Parmesan cheese
pinch red pepper flakes
salt/pepper, to taste
–
Cook pasta accordg. to pkg. directions;
drain. Heat 1 T. oil in large, deep skillet.
Add shrimp & garlic – cook until shrimp
turns pink. Add tomatoes, basil, remaining
2 T. oil, pepper flakes, salt/pepper. Toss,
gently heating tomatoes but not cooking
them. Remove from heat & toss in cheese.
Serves 4

(recipe: bakeatmidnite.com)
————————————-

Chunky Monkey Brownies

2 C. flour
1 1/2 C. brown sugar, packed
1/2 C. granulated sugar
2 sticks (1 C.) unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/4 tsp. salt
2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 C. banana (mashed with a fork-
about 1 medium)
10 oz. Hershey’s semi-sweet chocolate
baking melts (or 12 oz. semi sweet
chocolate chips)
1/4 C. chocolate chips (for topping)
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking dish with nonstick
cooking spray. In a bowl mix butter, eggs,
sugars, salt & vanilla using elec. mixer
until well mixed. Stir with a wooden spoon
to combine:flour, mashed banana & baking
melts/chips; spread into prepared pan &
smooth top evenly Sprinkle choc. chips
on top. Bake 30-40 minutes until lightly
golden brown & a toothpick inserted in
center comes out clean. Cool completely
in pan before cutting into bars.

(recipe: americantimesfood.com)
————————————–

Candied Pecans
(6 qt. or larger crockpot)

2 egg whites
1 T. vanilla
1 3/4 C. sugar
1 3/4 C. brown sugar
1 T. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. salt
2 lb. whole pecans
–
In small bowl whisk egg whites &
vanilla until very frothy (may take
a minute or two). In medium bowl
add sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg & salt
stir until combined. Place pecans in
a large bowl; pour egg whites over &
stir until pecans are evenly coated. Pour
over sugar mixture & stir until pecans
are coated. Spray insides of crockpot
with nonstick cooking spray – add nuts.
Cover & cook on Low for 3 hours,
stirring every 20 minutes. When cooking
time is done, pour nuts onto a baking
sheet lined with waxed or parchment
paper. Cool for 30 minutes before storing
or packaging in bags. Serves 20

(recipe: themagicalslowcooker.com)
================

Our weather, once again, is acting very
unlike Winter in Michigan (which I, personally,
am LOVING!) It snowed just a tad yesterday
(Christmas Day) and my oldest son was
ecstatic – he & his oldest son (12) LOVE to go
snowboarding in the winter – however –
the snow all melted! Today it got up to 45
degrees F.!!! YAY! (I’ve lived in good old
Michigan all my life so I KNOW this will
not be the end of snow for us – just hoping
we don’t really bad snowfalls (has happened
in years past) – will just have to wait & see.

Hope your holiday went very well and you
were able to enjoy time with friends/family,
some good food and great company.

Hugs;

Pammie

Christmas, 2018

Last Minute – How’s it going?

Just got home from a quick ‘dash’ to the grocery store for last minute items – yes, that’s ME – the person who always says: “I’d never to shopping on Christmas EVE!” As I was looking over our menu for Christmas Dinner it occurred to me (like at Thanksgiving) – lovely menu BUT I can’t eat MOST of the sides! (Now that I’m trying to adhere to a stricter diabetic menu it changes the way I eat. Our menu will be: (probably appetizers by my son – like melted Brie & honey, several dips & crackers) my husband’s Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole, Wild Rice stuffing, croissants, my son’s Prime Rib & desserts: our family tradition: a “Happy Birthday, Jesus” chocolate cake, a smaller variety slices of cheesecakes. My ‘new’ addition: a spinach salad (hence my grocery trip). I decided the salad would have: Baby Spinach, Slices of red onion, chopped green pepper, sliced cucumbers, little tomatoes, feta cheese & slivered almonds (might change that to sun flower seeds – we’ll see) plus whatever dressings they want on it.  It will be a feast, for sure. How are YOU coming on your plans?  (side note: we have two small grocery stores in our area that tend to be a bit ethnic – the one observation from me the last 2 times I went there: No ALMONDS of any kind! Strange! ( was looking for slivered almonds)

A few more ‘last minute’ recipes for ya-

=============

Easy Bread Pudding

2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon rolls
8 eggs
5 C. milk
1/2 tsp. salt
–
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking dish with nonstick
cooking spray. Break up cinnamon rolls into
bite-sized pieces & place in baking dish. In
large bowl whisk eggs until uniformly yellow –
add milk & salt; whisk until smooth. Pour
mixture over rolls, being careful to soak ALL
pieces with mixture. Let pieces soak 1 hour.
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Bake 45-50 minutes until set.
Serves 12

Optional idea: replace regular milk with
chocolate milk & sprinkle top with chocolate
chips before baking.

(recipe: everydaydishes.com)
———————————

Brown Sugar Pecan Pie

1/2 C. butter
2 1/3 C. firmly packed brown sugar
4 large eggs, room temp.
1/4 C. milk
2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. salt
1 C. toasted/chopped pecans
1 (9 inch) unbaked deep-dish pie crust
–
Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Place pie dish (with crust)on a baking
sheet. In small saucepan melt butter,
continue cooking over medium heat,
stirring occasionally,until slightly browned.
Remove from heat & let cool 10
minutes. In a large bowl whisk together
brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla & salt
until smooth. Slowly drizzle in melted
butter, whisking the entire time until
fully incorporated – stir in pecans.
Pour mixture into pie crust & bake
45-55 minutes until puffed & golden
brown. Place on a cooling rack to cool.
Pie will settle as it cools. Let it cool
completely before slicing.
Serves 10

(recipe: momontimeout.com)
———————————-

Last Minute Chocolate Fudge

24 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
(about 4 C)
2 (14 oz, ea) cans sweetened condensed
milk
1/2 C. salted butter
2 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 C. pecans, chopped (optional)
–
Line a 9 X 13″ baking dish with parchment
paper so it comes up the sides of the pan
(making it easy to remove the fudge).
In a large microwave-safe dish combine
choc. chips, sweeten’d cond. milk & butter.
Microwave in 1 minute segments, stirring
after each time until mixture is smooth &
creamy (takes about 4 minutes). Stir in
vanilla & 1 C. nuts (optional). Pour into
prepared pan & spread evenly. Top with
remaining nuts (if using). Refrigerate
to set then cut into small squares.
Makes 40-50 small squares

(NOTE: keep refrigerated for best texture).

(recipe: iwashyoudry)
————————————-

Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

1 (24-32 oz) bag frozen meatballs
2 cans French Onion soup
–
Combine ingredients in crockpot &
heat on High 2 hours (or Low
for 4 hours). Serves 8

(recipe: recipesthatcrock.com)
——————————–
(crockpot) Tangy Pineapple Meatballs

1 (40 oz) bag frozen meatballs
1 (16 oz0 can pineapple tidbits
1 (24 oz) bottle ketchup
1 C. brown sugar
1/2 C. maple syrup
1/4 C. soy sauce
–
Combine all ingredients in crockpot.
Cover & cook on Low 3 hours.

(recipe: recipesthatcrock.com)
———————————

Raspberry Fluff Salad

1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
2 C. mini marshmallows
1 (3.4 oz) pkg. instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (32 oz) tub vanilla yogurt
1 (12 oz) pkg. frozen raspberries
–
In large bowl mix yogurt & pudding mix;
stir until completely mixed. Fold in Cool
Whip & raspberries (raspberries will soften
while salad sets). Fold in marshmallows.
Cover & refrigerate 30 minutes. When
removing from fridge, fold salad with a
spoon several times to spread the raspberry
juice throughout the salad. Serves 15

(recipe: sugar-n-spicegals.com)
————————————-

Crockpot Brown Sugar Ham

7 lb. cooked, bone-in ham or
spiral cooked ham
1 C. brown sugar
2 C. pineapple juice
1/2 C. maple syrup
–
Place ham in crockpot, flat side
down. Rub brown sugar over all
sides of ham; drizzle with juice
& syrup. Cover & cook on Low
4-6 hours. Serves 10-12

NOTE: Poster used 6-7 lb. ham
to fit inside a 6-8 qt. crockpot.
If your ham is just a little too big
to get the lid on tight – you can
wrap foil around the outside of
the lid to keep the heat in.
Cooking times will vary greatly
on this recipe depending on your
ham size/shape & how hot your
crockpot cooks. Check it regularly
to make sure you don’t over cook it.

(recipe: recipesthatcrock.com)
———————————

Sausage/Mushroom Appetizer

48 large fresh mushrooms
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 lb. bulk pork sausage, cooked/
crumbled
1 C. shredded Swiss cheese
1/4 C. mayonnaise
3 T. butter, melted
2 T. finely chopped onion
2 tsp. spicy brown (or horseradish)
mustard
1 tsp. garlic salt
1 tsp. Cajun seasoning
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray two 9 X 13″ baking dishes with
nonstick cooking spray.
Remove mushroom stems (discard or
save for another use). In large bowl
combine remaining ingredients – stuff
mixture inside mushroom caps & place
caps on prepared sheets. Bake, uncovered,
16-20 minutes until heated through.
Makes 4 dozen

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
—————————

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

1 1/2 lb. red potatoes (about 6
medium) baked & cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 lb. sliced bacon, cooked/crumbled
3 C. sour cream
2 C. shredded Mozzarella cheese
2 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
2 green onions, sliced
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray. Place half
of the cut potatoes in prepared dish.
Sprinkle top with half salt/pepper/
bacon. Top with half sour cream &
cheeses – repeat layers. Bake, uncovered,
20-25 minutes until cheeses are melted.
Sprinkle top with onions.
Serves 8

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
———————————
Baked Brie w/Cranberry Sauce

8 oz. round brie cheese, room temp.
1/3 C. cranberry sauce
2 T. brown sugar, packed
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. orange zest
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 C. hazelnuts, unroasted/roughly
chopped
fresh rosemary (garnish)
–
Crackers for dipping
=
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
Line a small baking dish with parchment
paper. Peel or slice off the top rind of the
brie – scrape out a small amount of cheese
to form a shallow hollow in the center –
place cheese in prepared dish. In a bowl
mix cranberry sauce, brown sugar, vanilla,
orange zest & nutmeg – spoon into hollow
of brie & sprinkle hazelnuts on top. Bake
8-12 minutes until filling is bubbling &
cheese is gooey.

NOTE: the goal is to take
the cheese out after it has softened, but
just before it collapses into a heap.

Using parchment paper, lift cheese out of
bowl using a spatula – carefully slide onto
a serving dish; garnish with a rosemary
sprig (if desired). Serve immediately with
assorted crackers for dipping. Serves 4-6

(recipe: thekitchn.com)
———————————

Baked Brie w/Cranberry Sauce

8 oz. round brie cheese, room temp.
1/3 C. cranberry sauce
2 T. brown sugar, packed
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. orange zest
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 C. hazelnuts, unroasted/roughly
chopped
fresh rosemary (garnish)
–
Crackers for dipping
=
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
Line a small baking dish with parchment
paper. Peel or slice off the top rind of the
brie – scrape out a small amount of cheese
to form a shallow hollow in the center –
place cheese in prepared dish. In a bowl
mix cranberry sauce, brown sugar, vanilla,
orange zest & nutmeg – spoon into hollow
of brie & sprinkle hazelnuts on top. Bake
8-12 minutes until filling is bubbling &
cheese is gooey.

NOTE: the goal is to take
the cheese out after it has softened, but
just before it collapses into a heap.

Using parchment paper, lift cheese out of
bowl using a spatula – carefully slide onto
a serving dish; garnish with a rosemary
sprig (if desired). Serve immediately with
assorted crackers for dipping. Serves 4-6

(recipe: thekitchn.com)
===================

                     A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU, ALL!

Hugs;

Pammie

Getting Closer – more ‘last minute’ Recipes!

Very glad we didn’t get any snow-temps. in the 30’s (great snow temps.) but although it’s rather gloomy outside, we can still move about/drive/walk, etc. in ‘GLOOM’!!! YAY! I still have some presents to wrap but, other than cooking on Christmas Day, I’m done! (Have to write out some Thank You cards to my special needs students & their families for gifting me with some very nice presents).

LOTS of great holiday recipes coming in – today it’s going to be mostly desserts – some are ‘last minute’ friendly (quick to make).

============

Cranberry Pecan Crisp

2 C. fresh cranberries (can use
frozen – don’t need to thaw)
1 C. sugar
1 1/2 C. flour
1 C. rolled oats (can use quick-cooking)
1/4 C. brown sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 sticks butter (12 T.) melted
1 tsp. vanilla
1 C. chopped pecans (or walnuts)
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a 2 qt. baking dish with nonstick
cooking spray. Combine cranberries &
sugar & add to dish. In a bowl mix, using
a spoon, flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon,
melted butter & vanilla – drop on top of
cranberries/sugar. Sprinkle top with nuts.
Bake 45 minutes until bubbling & brown
on top. Serves about 6

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
——————————
Cranberry/Pecan Cake Mix Cookies

1 box white cake mix
2 eggs
8 T. melted butter
1 C. dried cranberries (Craisins)
1 C. chopped pecans
–
In large bowl mix all ingredients &
refrigerate 1 hour.
=
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a baking sheet with nonstick
cooking spray & drop cookie dough
by spoonfuls onto sheet -about golf
ball size.
NOTE: this dough is so sticky you may
need to use 2 spoons to get the mixture
off of one spoon. Bake 10-12 minutes
until golden around edges.
Makes 20-25 cookies (depending on size
you make them).

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
——————————
Crunchy Peanut Butter Balls

2 C. crunchy peanut butter (or smooth,
if you like)
1 stick butter or margarine (1/2 C. or
8 T.)
2 C. powdered sugar
2 C. Rice Krispies cereal
2 C. semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 T. shortening (Crisco – do not substitute
butter or margarine)
–
Cover a baking sheet with waxed paper.
You can do this in the microwave OR
on stovetop: Melt peanut butter &
butter together. In a bowl mix powdered
sugar & cereal – mix together with peanut
butter mixture (poster uses a wooden
spoon). Form into balls about 1-inch
& place on prepared sheet. Chill 1 hour.
–
Chocolate Coating:
Melt chocolate & shortening (either on
stove or microwave*) Dip balls in mixture
& place back on sheet. Keep chilled until
firm – about 1 hour. Makes 3 dozen (depenging
on the size you make them).

*In microwave poster did them about 2 1/2
minutes, stirring well.

NOTE: the addition of shortening creates a
smoother & more manageable consistency
than just melted chocolate alone. Doing this
helps to make a more evenly coated product.

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
——————————

Creme de Menthe Brownies
(Paula Dean)

4 oz. unsweetened baking chocolate
1 C. unsalted butter
4 large eggs
2 C. granulated sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
1 C. flour
–
Filling:
1/2 C. unsalted butter, softened
2 C. powdered sugar
4 T. green creme de menthe (or
use green food coloring plus a
dash of peppermint extract)
–
Icing:
6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
6 T. unsalted butter
===
NOTE: Where it says ‘use a double
boiler’ you can do this in the micro-
wave using a glass bowl, make sure
to monitor closely & stir a few times.
=
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking pan with
nonstick cooking spray.

Brownies:

In a double boiler, melt baking
chocolate & 1 C. butter over
simmering water; cool slightly.
In medium bowl beat eggs using
a whisk until blended; add 2 C.
gran. sugar & continue whisking
until mixture is light & fluffy. Add
cooled chocolate mixture, salt,
vanilla & flour – keep whisking
until thoroughly blended. Pour
into prepared pan & bake 25 minutes.
Remove from oven & cool in pan.
=
Filling:

Using an elec. mixer on medium speed
beat 1/2 C. butter & conf. sugar until
well blended. Stir in creme de menthe
& blend well – spread over cooled
brownies. Refrigerate in original pan until
filling is firm.
–
Icing:

Melt choc. chips & 6 T. butter in top of
double boiler, stirring until smooth.
Pour warm glaze over filling & tilt pan
to distribute icing evenly. Refrigerate
until chocolate hardens.

To Cut Brownies:

Allow brownies to come to room temp.
in the pan so chocolate doesn’t crack,
then cut them into squares. Serves 48

(recipe: geniuskitchen.com)
—————————————-
Peppermint Candy Popcorn

10 C. popped popcorn
1 C. chocolate chips
1 C. white chocolate chips
1/2 C. holiday chocolate M & M’s
candies
1/2 C. white peppermint M & M’s
candies
–
Line a large flat rimmed baking sheet
with parchment paper. Spread popped
popcorn on sheet. In a saucepan over
medium heat, melt choc. chips until
smooth. In another saucepan, melt
white choc. chips until smooth – drizzle
both chocolates over popcorn. Sprinkle
covered popcorn with both M & M
candies (while chocolate is still soft).
Let mixture set until chocolate is set.
Break into pieces before serving.
Makes 10 Cups

(recipe: ourtableforseven.com)
——————————–
Cranberry Fluff
(overnight recipe)

1 (8 oz) bag fresh or frozen cranberries,
chopped into small pieces
1 C. granulated sugar
1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple with
juice (do not drain)
1 1/2 C. miniature marshmallows
1 1/2 C. shredded coconut
1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
1 C. chopped nuts (your choice)
–
In large bowl add chopped cranberries &
sugar – stir. Add pineapple & juice; stir in
marshmallows, coconut, Cool Whip &
nuts – stir. Refrigerate overnight for
best results to let ingredients blend.
Serves 8-10

Keeps well for several days refrigerated.
Recipe can be doubled. Serve as a side
dish or dessert.

NOTE: If you want to make more pink add
a few drops of red food coloring

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
————————————

Cheese Ball Bites

1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, softened
4 oz. mascarpone cheese, softened
6 oz. finely grated sharp white Cheddar
cheese
salt/pepper, to taste
3/4 c. finely chopped pecans (regular or
candied)
3/4 C. chopped dried cranberries
1/2 C. thinly sliced chives
1/4 C. finely chopped parsley
–
Place cream cheese & mascarpone cheese
in a bowl. Using an elec. mixer or large
spoon, mix until thoroughly combined.
Add Cheddar cheese & salt/pepper – mix
until well combined. Roll mixture into
bite-sized balls. Place cranberries on one
flat plate (or pie plate) & pecans on another –
one a third plate mix chives & parsley. Roll
1/3rd of balls in pecans – 1/3 in cranberries –
1/3 in herbs. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Place toothpicks in balls & serve.
Serves 12

(recipe: dinneratthezoo.com)
——————————-
Homemade Chex Mix

3 C. Corn Chex cereal
3 C. Rice Chex cereal
1 1/2 C. Wheat Chex cereal
1 1/2 C. oyster crackers
1 C. cheese crackers
1 C. pretzel twists
1 C. mixed nuts
6 T. butter, melted
2 T. Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt*
3/4 tsp. onion powder
–
In large microwave-safe bowl place
all cereals, crackers, pretzels & nuts.
In a bowl or glass measuring cup mix
melted butter, Worc. sauce, seasoned
salt & onion powder – pour over cereal
mixture & toss to coat evenly. Microwave
5-6 minutes, stirring thoroughly every 2
minutes, then spread on paper towels to
cool. Serve immediately or store in a
sealed container up to 1 week.
Serves 24

*Poster highly recommends Penzeys
smoky seasoned salt

NOTE: you can omit nuts & use more
crackers & pretzels if desired. (When
poster makes this for children she uses
rainbow colored goldfish crackers instead
of regular cheese crackers)

(recipe: dinneratthezoo.com)
———————————
Triple-cheese Bacon/Spinach Dip

10 slices bacon, cooked until crispy,
drained & chopped
1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/3 C. mayonnaise
1/3 C. sour cream
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. paprika
1 lb. frozen chopped spinach, thawed/
squeezed dry
1 C. freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 C. shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided
–
1 baguette, sliced/toasted (or other dippers)
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
In large bowl mix cream cheese, mayo, sour
cream, garlic powder & paprika – season with
salt/pepper. Fold in chopped spinach, bacon,
Parm & 3/4 C. mozzarella cheeses. Transfer
dip to a baking dish & sprinkle top with
remaining 1/4 C. Mozzarella cheese. Bake
25-30 minutes until golden & bubbly.
Serves 8

(recipe: delish.com)
——————————–
French Dip Pinwheels
(appetizer)

Pinwheels:
2 T. butter
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 sprigs fresh thyme
kosher salt
ground black pepper
flour
2 (8 oz) tubes crescent dough
8 slices Provolone cheese
1/2 lb. deli roast beef
2 tsp. freshy thyme leaves

Au Jus:
1 T. butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 1/2 C. (low-sodium) beef stock
1 T. Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp. freshy thyme leaves
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray. In large
skillet over medium-high heat,
melt butter. Add onion & thyme
sprigs – cook, stirring occasionally,
until onions begin to softened &
turn golden, 5 minutes. Season
with salt/pepper – reduce heat
to medium. Continue cooking,
stirring occasionally, 10-15
minutes more until onions are soft &
caramelized.

Assemble Pinwheels:

On a lightly floured surface, unroll
crescent dough – separate into 2
rectangles, pinching together seams.
Top each rectangle with Provolone,
roast beef & caramelized onions.
Starting at short side, roll up each
rectangle, pinching edges to seal.
Cut each roll into 4 slices & place on
prepared pan, cut sides up – top with
thyme leaves. Bake 35 minutes until
dough is golden.

Au Jus:

In small saucepan over medium heat
melt butter. Stir in garlic & cook 1 minute.
Add broth, Worc. sauce & thyme leaves –
season with salt/pepper. Simmer 10
minutes until slightly reduced. Serve
pinwheels warm with Au Jus for dipping.
Makes 10 servings.

NOTE: Be sure to roll them extra tight so
they don’t come apart when dipping.

(recipe: delish.com)
——————————-

(I threw this one in because I know that it’s a holiday recipe)

Southern Pea Salad

1 (16 oz) bag frozen sweet peas, thawed/
uncooked (can use canned)
2 eggs, hard-boiled/chopped
4-6 slices bacon, cooked crisp & crumbled
(or 1 C. cooked/chopped ham)
1/2 C. chopped green onion (can use regular)
1 C. shredded Cheddar cheese (or any kind)
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. celery seeds (or 1/2 C. chopped celery)
dash cayenne pepper
1/2 C. mayonnaise
1/2 C. sour cream
–
Combine uncooked, thawed peas, eggs, bacon/
ham (or both), onion, cheese, pepper/salt, garlic
powder, celery & cayenne in a large salad bowl.
Mix in mayo & sour cream. Refrigerate a few hours.
Serves 6-8

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
======================
Hard to believe TOMORROW is CHRISTMAS
EVE! Seems the days are just flying by!

Hope you are all in the ‘home stretch’ of all
of your holiday preparations. Amidst it all –
remember to REST/RELAX a bit, ENJOY the
times – with friends/family, etc.
These ARE the times of our lives. To quote
a saying I have on my computer room wall:

“Enjoy the little things in life because, one day,
you’ll look back & realize they were the BIG
things!” (Robert Brault)

Hugs;

Pammie

 

More Holiday Recipes!

We had a very light ‘dusting’ of snow last night (not enough to even worry about!). I noticed that our weather now says some freezing rain/snow possible tomorrow – oh well, we knew it was to be expected.

============

Soft Cinnamon Roll Cookies

3/4 C. butter, softened
1 C. sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
3 C. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
3/4 C. buttermilk

Filling:

2 T. butter, softened
1/2 C. brown sugar
1-2 T. cinnamon

Glaze:

2 C. powdered sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
3-4 T. milk
–
In large bowl cream butter & sugar
until creamy; mix in vanilla. Add baking
soda to buttermilk & stir. Add 1 C. flour
slowly to butter mixture until combined.
Pour in buttermilk/soda & mix until
combined. Add rest of flour to mixture &
mix just until combined (do not over mix).
Refrigerate dough at least 1 hour
=
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray cookie sheets with nonstick cooking
spray (or) line with parchment paper.
Generously flour countertop with flour. Turn
out dougn onto flour & shape into an approx.
12″ X 8″ rectangle, about 1/4″ thick. (Dough
will be very sticky). Spread butter evenly over
dough then sprinkle with brown sugar &
cinnamon. Roll up dough from long side, slowly
nudging it up as tightly as possible without
breaking the dough (don’t worry if there are some
little places that open up – lightly pinch them closed).
Refrigerate about 15 minutes then slice into 1″ slices,
wiping the sharp knife between cuts. Place cookies
on prepared sheets, at least 2 1/2 inches apart –
they will spread. Lightly reshape cookies into circles,
if needed, making sure the cinnamon sugar is showing
in spirals. Bake 18-20 minutes until lightly browned.
Transfer baked cookies to wire racks immediately to
cool.
After they’ve cooled: mix glaze ingredients until
smooth & desired texture – spoon glaze to completely
cover cookies & give them enough time to set up
before serving.  Serves 12

(recipe: thebellyrules.com)
————————————-

Mashed Sweet Potatoes w/Browned Butter

2 lb. sweet potatoes, fully baked/slightly
cooled
1/2 C. heavy cream
2-4 T. brown sugar
1 stick butter, divided
salt/pepper
nuts for topping (optional),
pecans, walnuts, your choice
–
While potatoes are cooling make browned
butter: Cut 5 T. butter into small pieces &
place in saucepan over medium heat – melt.
Turn up heat to medium-high & allow to start
a small boil. Continue stirring so butter solids
don’t stick or burn on bottom – continue
stirring gently making sure the solids aren’t
sticking to bottom & so it doesn’t boil over.
After 5-10 minutes butter will start to turn a
nice caramel color & start to smell fragrant
(it has a very nutty smell & taste when browned).
BE VERY careful not to allow butter to burn (it
can go from brown to burned very quickly.).

Peel slightly cooled potatoes & place in a large
bowl-mash using a potato masher or elec. mixer.
Add cream, remaining butter & 2 T. brown sugar.
Use remaining potato water to thin out your potatoes
to your liking. Season with salt/pepper & adjust
sweetness with more brown sugar, as needed.
From here you have 2 choices: Mix in browned
butter completely or pour it over the top when
serving. Top with chopped nuts & serve.
Serves 4

(recipe: aroundmyfamilytable.com)
————————————–

Sausage Quiche Squares
(appetizer)

1 lb. bulk pork sausage
1 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1 C. shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 C. finely chopped onion
1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies
1 T. minced jalapeno pepper (optional)
10 large eggs
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. black pepper
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Spray 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray. In large
skillet cook sausage until no longer
pink; drain & place in prepared dish.
Layer with cheeses, onion, chilies &
jalapeno (if using). In a bowl beat
eggs & seasonings – pour over cheese
in dish. Bake, uncovered, until a knife
inserted into center comes out clean –
18-22 minutes. Remove from oven &
cool 10 minutes then cut into 1-inch
squares.  Makes about 8 dozen

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
————————————–

Cookie Dessert Bread

2 (5 oz, ea) tubs Vanilla Greek yogurt
1 1/2 C. self-rising flour
1/2 C. sour cream
1 1/2 C. Chocolate chips & 1/3 C. for topping
1 T. vanilla
–
Glaze:
1 C. powdered sugar
1 T. vanilla
1-2 tsp. milk or heavy cream (can use non-dairy
milk)

NOTE: you can use all non-dairy yogurt in place
of Greek yogurt & sour cream
=
Spray a bread loaf pan with nonstick cooking
spray.
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
In medium bowl combine flour, sour cream,
sugar, yogurt, vanilla & choc. chips (reserving
1/3 C. extra for topping) – mix well. Pour
mixture into prepared pan & bake 45 minutes
to 1 hour. Check at 45 minutes – bake until a
toothpick inserted into center of loaf comes out
clean. Let cool completely then invert to a wire
rack to finish cooling.

Glaze:

While bread is baking, make glaze. Mix
powdered sugar, vanilla & milk/heavy cream
together (add milk, a little at a time, so that
it doesn’t turn too watery). Pour glaze over
cooled bread & top with choc. chips.
Serves 16

(recipe: wishesndishes.com)
——————————————

Crockpot Horseradish Cheese Spread

2 lb. box Velveeta cheese, cut into
cubes
1 C. mayonnaise
1 (4 oz) jar cream horseradish
2 (4 oz, ea) jars diced pimentos, drained
dash hot sauce
–
Crackers – for dipping
=
In 4 qt. or larger crockpot place Velveeta
cubes, mayo, horseradish, pimentos & hot
sauce – stir. Cover & cook on High about an
hour 45 minutes, stirring about every 30
minutes. (NOTE: you can also heat this
on the stovetop in a saucepan, stirring
often). Spoon sauce into serving containers
with lids & refrigerate at least 4 hours.
Serve with crackers. Serves 25

(recipe: themagicalslowcooker.com)
—————————
Crockpot Brown Sugar Meatloaf

3 lb. extra lean ground beef
1 1/4 C. Italian seasoned bread crumbs
1 C. milk
4 large eggs
2 pkts. dry onion soup mix
2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
–
Topping:
2 C. ketchup
1 C. brown sugar (light or dark)
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
–
Line crockpot with a crockpot liner or
spray insides with nonstick cooking spray.
Using your hands, in large bowl combine
ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs,
soup mix, salt/pepper & ginger. Place
mixture in bottom of crockpot & shape
into a loaf shape, keep it away from the
sides of the crockpot. Cover & cook on
Low 6-7 hours (until meat thermometer
inserted into center of loaf reads 160
degrees F.) About 1/2 hour before
end of cooking time  in small bowl
mix ketchup, brown sugar & Worc.
sauce – evenly spread over top of loaf;
finish cooking. Carefully remove loaf
from crockpot by either pulling the
liner with meatloaf inside or use
2 spatulas to lift loaf up & out of
crockpot. Place on a serving platter.
Serves 10

Freezer Instructions: Mix meatloaf
together & place in a 1 gallon ziplock
freezer bag (or foodsaver bag) – flatten
as much as possible inside bag. In 1 qt.
freezer bag mix topping ingredients. Seal
& freeze with meatloaf – Place smaller
bag inside bag with meatloaf & seal
larger bag closed by hand (or seal using
Foodsaver). Label bag with date prepared,
name of recipe, ingredients & cooking
instructions. Lay bag flat in freezer & allow
to freeze for several hours; then you can
stand the bag upright if needed. Contents
of meal must be allowed to thaw completely.
Remove from freezer, place in fridge until
completely thawed (about 24 hours). Remove
topping bag & set on a plate in fridge until
needed. Follow remaining directions in
recipe.

(recipe: crockpotladies.com)
————————————

Crockpot Crustless Brown Sugar Pumpkin
Pie
(Done in crockpot with removable insert)

1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree (Libby’s)
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
2 eggs
3/4 C. brown sugar
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/8 tsp. ground cloves
1/4 tsp. ground cardamom
1/2 tsp. salt
–
Line crockpot with foil & spray with nonstick
cooking spray*. Mix all ingredients in medium
bowl using a whisk, until smooth. Pour mixture
into prepared crockpot; cover & cook on High
2 1/2 hours until filling is set KEEP LID ON FOR
ENTIRE COOKING TIME. When cooking time is
done, remove lid. Remove ceramic insert from
base & place on a cooling rack 30 minutes.
(Poster serves hers with ice cream – if you want
to serve this cold, place insert in fridge.
Serves 8

*Poster uses 2 pieces of heavy-duty foil- she
makes a bowl at the bottom of the crockpot &
layers each piece on top of the other. She also
notes that it is easier to remove the foil with
the pie in it after pie has cooled completely.

(recipe: themagicalslowcooker.com)
———————————

Crockpot Spinach & Artichoke Dip

8 oz. cream cheese, softened/cubed
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) jar/can artichoke hearts, drained
& chopped
1 C. mayonnaise
1/3 C. sour cream
1 C. shredded Parmesan cheese
1 C. shredded mozzarella cheese
–
Place all ingredients in 2.5 to 3.5 qt. crockpot-
stir to combine. Cover & cook on Low 2-3
hours, stirring occasionally until dip is hot &
all cheeses have melted. Serve in a bowl or
from crockpot on Warm setting.
Serves 10

NOTE: This dip can easily be turned into a
pasta sauce by adding 2-3 C. milk, Half & Half
or cream after dip has cooked. Slowly stir in
milk until it reaches a pourable consistency.
Serve over any type of cooked pasta..

(recipe: crockpotladies.com)
————————————-

Crockpot Chili Cheese Dip

2 cans Ro*TEL (poster used 1 can Mexican-
style & 1 can Chili Fixin’s)
1 can Wolf brand chili – homestyle flavor
1 (32 oz) pkg. Velveeta, cubed
1 T. chili powder
–
Pour Ro*Tel in bottom of crockpot; add
Velveeta & pour Wolf’s chili on top.
Sprinkle top with chili powder & stir.
Cover & cook on Low 1 hour, stirring
occasionally. If cheese has not blended,
cook another 1/2 hour, stirring
occasionally. Serve with corn chips for
dipping. Serves 12

(recipe: recipesthatcrock.com)
——————————–

Sugar & Spice Pecans

1 egg white
1 T. water
1 C. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 lb. pecan halves (about 2 C.)
(can use other nuts)
–
Preheat oven 300 degrees F.
Lightly grease a large, rimmed baking
sheet. Place egg white & water in a
bowl – beat using elec. mixer until
frothy. In a separate bowl, stir together
sugar, salt & cinnamon until well blended.
Pour pecans into frothed egg whites & stir
to coat well. Take a handful of nuts at a
time & gently toss them in the sugar
mixture with your fingers. Place on a
baking sheet & bake 30-40 minutes,
stirring every 10 minutes.

(recipe: southernplate.com)

===================

Hope all of your holiday plans are coming
together nicely.

Hugs;

Pammie

Aaaand we’re on the ‘Home Stretch’!

Went out bright & early today to FINISH UP the shopping! Our middle son will be turning 30 Jan. 4th and I noticed in an ad for our local store: Meijers, that they had out the movie: “The House with a Clock in it’s Walls” – saw the previews last month and thought he would really enjoy this one, so got it today (along with a big bag of pistachios for my husband’s Christmas stocking). I’ve been going over the ‘food list’ for Christmas dinner and realized I didn’t have any desserts – good old Meijers bakery is GREAT for that so I picked up a really big pumpkin pie and a smaller sliced/variety cheesecake (with flavors like Lemon/Lime, Raspberry Swirl) – that should do the trick.

Going by our local Clark gas station today: $2.09/9 a gallon for gas! WOW! I really don’t remember seeing it that low in many, many years!

I survived my special needs group’s Christmas party Wednesday evening. This is the very FIRST time I have ever finished out the night and my back/legs/feet/hips were good – no pain! When we did the Harvest Party I was almost crawling at the end of the night attempting to walk across the gym for the 1,000th time – I decided NOT THIS TIME! I measured my walking and only did the entire gym a few times – YES! Spent yesterday sitting in my recliner knitting & relaxing – that was really nice.

============

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Cake:
2 C. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
3 T. orange zest
6 T. orange juice, divided
1 C. butter, softened
1 C. brown sugar
1/2 C. granulated sugar
4 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 C. white chocolate chips

Glaze:
1 C.  white chocolate chips,
3 T. orange juice
dash salt

–
Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Spray a Bundt pan generously with
nonstick cooking spray & dust lightly
with flour (or use spray that also has
flour in it). In small bowl place flour,
baking powder & 1/4 tsp. salt – mix
to combine. In large bowl of stand
mixer add butter, brown & gran.
sugars – beat until fluffy, about 2
minutes. Add eggs – mix 1 minute.
Add orange zest, orange juice & vanilla;
mix until combined. Add dry flour bowl
ingredients to wet & beat 1 minute –
scrape down sides of bowl to ensure
all ingredients are well incorporated.
Add 1 C. white choc. chips & 1 1/2
C. fresh or frozen cranberries – mix
to incorporate then pour into prepared
pan – smooth top evenly. (batter will
be very thick).
Bake 45-55 minutes until a toothpick
inserted into middle of cake comes out
clean. Remove from oven & allow to
cool in pan 10 minutes. Place a wire rack
over top of pan, invert pan so that cake
is now on wire rack. Allow cake to cool
completely before adding glaze.

Glaze:
In medium pan on stove: add 1 C. white
choc. chips, 3 T. orange juice & dash salt
– stir over medium-high heat until chocolate
has melted & is smooth – drizzle over cooled
cake. Serves 12

(recipe: jamiecooksitup.net)
———————————–

Crockpot Chocolate Fudge

10 oz. chocolate chips (semi-sweet
or milk chocolate)
1 (16 oz.) tub prepared cake frosting
=
Optional toppings:

crushed peppermint candies, chopped
nuts, candy sprinkles, dried fruit,
chopped candy bars
=
Scoop frosting into bottom of 3 qt. crockpot;
add choc. chips & stir to combine. Cover &
cook on Low 1 to 1 1/2 hours. While choc.
mixture is cooking, line a 8 X 8″ baking pan
with parchment or waxed paper, leaving
paper on each side overhanging. Once choc.
mixture is melted, stir well to make sure
all is well combine & all chips are melted.
Pour mixture into prepared pan & spread
to smooth top evenly. Sprinkle top with
crushed peppermint candies, sprinkles,
chopped nuts or topping of your choice
(optional), pressing topping lightly with
your hand to make sure it sticks to fudge.
Refrigerate 2-3 hours. Cut cooled fudge
using a sharp knife. Makes 16 squares

(recipe: crockpotladies.com)
——————————

Crockpot Green Beans w/Bacon

8 slices bacon, cut into small
pieces/cooked until crispy
2 lb. rinsed/trimmed fresh green
beans
1/2 C. yellow onion, diced/sauteed
with bacon until transparent.
1 potato, diced
1 1/2 C. chicken broth or stock
salt/pepper, to taste
–
Lightly spray insides of crockpot
with nonstick cooking spray. Add green
beans, black pepper, bacon (& drippings)
to crockpot – stir to make sure all are
mixed well. Add diced potatoes & broth/
stock – salt/pepper – to taste*. Cover &
cook on Low 6-8 hours or High 3-4
hours until beans reach your desired
level of tenderness. – adjust seasonings
to your liking & serve immediately.
Serves 8

*Poster says she frequently omits salt as
the bacon gives enough salty flavor.

(recipe: momontimeout.com)
————————————

Sausage Cheese Balls

3 C. Bisquick baking mix
1 lb. uncooked bulk pork
sausage
4 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 C. grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 C. milk
1/2 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed
1 1/2 tsp. chopped fresh parsley (or 1/2
tsp. dried flakes)
–
Barbecue or chili sauce, for dipping
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Lightly grease bottom & sides of a jelly
roll pan or shallow casserole dish. In
large bowl mix all ingredients except
sauces for dipping, mix using your hands
or a spoon. Shape mixture into 1-inch
balls & place on pan. Bake 20-25 minutes
until brown. Immediately remove from pan.
Serve warm with dipping sauce.
–
Can be made ahead:
Cover & refrigerate unbaked balls up to
24 hours. Bake as directed. Cover & freeze
any unbaked balls up to 1 month. Preheat
oven 350 degrees.

Place frozen balls on ungreased cookie sheet
& bake 25-30 minutes until brown.

Place 6 frozen balls on a microwaveable plate;
loosely cover with waxed paper & microwave
on High 45 seconds to 1 minute until heated
through.

(recipe: Mike Suddaby-Facebook)
—————————————–
Ham & Cheese Rollups

1 (8 oz) tube crescent roll dough
1/2 lb. deli sliced ham
2 T. Dijon mustard
8 oz. sliced Swiss cheese
4 T. butter, melted
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
2 T. chopped parsley
1 tsp. poppy seeds
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a 8 X 8″ baking pan with
nonstick cooking spray. On a lightly
floured surface unroll dough &
separate the sheet into rectangles.
Pinch the perforations to seal. Spread
mustard onto each rectangle; top with
sliced ham & cheese. Starting with one
short side, roll up each rectangle, pinching
edges to seal. Cut each roll into 5-6 slices &
place, cut sides up, in baking pan.
In small bowl whisk melted butter, garlic powder
& parsley – brush over pinwheels then sprinkle
poppy seeds on top. Bake 12-15 minutes until
rolls are golden. Makes 6 servings

(recipe: delish.com)
——————————–

Overnight Blueberry French Toast
Casserole

12 slices day-old bread, cut into 1-inch
cubes (Italian bread works best)
2 (8 oz, ea) pkgs. cream cheese, cut into
1-inch cubes
1 C. fresh or frozen blueberries
12 eggs, beaten
2 C. whole milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1/3 C. maple syrup
1 C. granulated sugar
2 T. cornstarch
1 C. water
1 C. fresh or frozen blueberries
1 T. butter
–
Lightly grease a 9 X 13″ baking dish. Arrange
half bread cubes in dish & top with cream
cheese cubes. Sprinkle 1 C. blueberries over
cream cheese & top with remaining bread
cubes. In large bowl mix eggs,  milk, vanilla &
syrup – pour over bread cubes. Press the cubes
down a bit to ‘soak’ them in mixture. Cover
tightly & refrigerate overnight.
–
Remove bread cube mixture from fridge
30 minutes before baking.
=
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Cover with foil & bake 30 minutes. Uncover,
continue baking 25-30 minutes until center
is firm & surface is lightly browned. In medium
saucepan bring sugar, cornstarch & water to
a boil, stirring constantly – cook 3-4 minutes.
Mix in remaining 1 C. blueberries. Reduce heat
& simmer 10 minutes, until blueberries begin
to burst. Stir in butter & pour over baked
French toast. Serves 16

(recipe: wishesndishes.com)
—————————————-

Crockpot Swedish Meatballs

1 T. butter
1 lb. sliced fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 (14.5 oz) can beef broth
1 (10 3/4 oz) can cream of chicken soup,
undiluted
1 envelope Lipton beefy onion soup mix
1 (24 oz) pkg. frozen fully-cooked Swedish
meatballs (OR) 1 (26 oz) pkg. frozen fully
cooked homestyle meatballs
2/3 C. sour cream
2 T. minced fresh parsley (or) 2 tsp dried
–
Hot cooked noodles or mashed potatoes
to serve 10 (Optional)
–
In large skillet heat butter over medium-high
heat. Saute mushrooms until tender, 4-5
minutes – place in crockpot. Stir in broth,
chicken soup & soup mix – stir in meatballs.
Cover & cook on Low 5-6 hours, until flavors
blend. Stir in sour cream & Parsley. Cover &
cook until heated through, about 15 minutes.
Serve with cooked noodles or mashed
potatoes to serve 10

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
——————————-
Cream Cheese Mints

1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, softened
3 T. butter, softened
7-8 C. powdered sugar (start with 7,
reserve 1 C. for dipping later)
4-6 drops peppermint oil
(food coloring, if desired)
–
In large bowl place cream cheese, butter
& peppermint oil – using elec. mixer,
beat until fluffy. Add 7 C. powdered
sugar & beat again until dough is like
in consistency. It will seem stiff & dry at
first but after a minute or two it will
come together. (you can add coloring
at this point, if desired.) (If it’s too dry
to form balls after you’re done mixing,
add 1 T. milk & mix again.) Form into
small 1 inch balls & place on waxed paper.
Roll each ball in powdered sugar &
flatten slightly with your fingertip/
a fork/back of a spoon/bottom of a
glass or a tiny
seasonal pastry stamp. Allow mints
to dry a few hours before storing. If
they will be eaten in a day or two, you
can leave them out in an airtight
container – for longer storage, place
in fridge. Makes about 80 1-inch mints.

(recipe: southernplate.com)
==================

I’m thrilled our weather is still ‘good’ – today
it’s kind of misty/foggy & gloomy with temp.
at 38 degrees F. Looking at our weather
for the next week there are a few hints of
snow, but nothing showing any accumulation
so we can just hope it melts! (even Christmas
Day it says “chance of snow after 1 p.m., mostly
cloudy high near 34”. If we stay that way I’ll be
happy – Why, you ask? Because you can WALK,
DRIVE, TRAVEL without worrying about slipping,
falling or getting into an accident when your car
slides on the roads!

Stay safe, warm and REMEMBER TO REST WHEN
YOU CAN! If you ‘over-do’ it, you won’t have the
energy you need to get all your ‘stuff’ done! (that
is spoken from great experience in that area!).
I have babysitting at 1 p.m. today and have been
rejoicing in that TODAY is the only day I’ve had to
do that this week! YAY! (Don’t get me wrong – I
love my baby grandson but I also love my OWN
time) – at least I get a lot of knitting done when
sitting! (but then, I usually come home really
tired, so glad dinner is something simple:
steak & eggs – found 3 nice steaks on sale so
dinner will be easy!)

Hugs;

Pammie

More Catching Up to get done

Lately my days/weeks have been jam-packed with at least ONE thing to get done every day; that’s fine but it really makes planning for said things difficult when I don’t know when I’m going to be babysitting! Was kind of holding my breath yesterday (HOPING I wouldn’t get a text) – we spent a good 3 hours at the car dealership waiting for them to install a part on my van heater. I was really wondering WHY it was taking so long since they ordered the part & assured me it would be in Monday. (turns out they had to remove the entire dashboard to get to the heater part!). Finished knitting the peach baby blanket and (silly me) didn’t bring any other knitting – was REALLY getting bored: read 6 magazines, ate a little of their free popcorn, drank some free coffee – finally we were ready! Since I didn’t get ‘the text’, was able to get almost all the grocery shopping done for the coming holiday. I wanted to give one of our adult helpers in my special needs group a loaf of some sort of fruit bread – finally settled on Apple Cinnamon (and will add applesauce instead of water) to the mix (YES-I’m always looking for a QUICK fix for baking, so I bought a mix!).  Also, every year we give our mail person/lady a plate of cookies so I bought some at our local grocery store – they look homemade, so we’re good there! (CHECK! One more thing off my to-do list!). Tonight is my Panera Knit/Crochet group’s Christmas gathering. I like to treat the ladies to Panera chocolate chip cookies & I add mini candy bars to the platter – my way of saying Thanks for being a part of my group. (Ordered Panera cookies on line – CHECK!). HOPEFULLY after tomorrow night I’ll be pretty much free of the dreaded ‘GOT-TO-DO’S’! Was able to purchase most of what I put in my guys Christmas stockings at the drug store today so that’s also done! CHECK!

================

Cake Mix Snickerdoodle Cookies

1 (16.5 oz) box deluxe moist yellow
cake mix
2/3 C. butter, softened
2 eggs
1/2 C. sugar
3 tsp. cinnamon
–
In large bowl combine
dry cake mix, butter & eggs – chill
1 hour.
=
Preheat oven 350 degrees F
Spray a baking sheet with nonstick
cooking spray. In a small dish mix
sugar & cinnamon together. Roll
dough into 1-inch balls & roll in
cinn/sugar mixture – place on
prepared baking sheet 2 inches
apart. Bake 10-12 minutes
Makes 25-30 cookies

(recipe: thesouthernladycooks.com)
———————————

Apple-Cranberry Crumb Bars

1/2 C. butter
1 box (2 layer) yellow cake mix
2 eggs, divided
1 tsp. cinnamon
2 (8 oz, ea) pks. cream cheese,
softened
1/2 C. sugar
2 Gala apples, peeled/chopped
1 C. fresh or frozen cranberries
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Line 9 X 13″ baking dish with foil, with
ends of foil extending over sides. Micro-
wave butter in large microwaveable bowl
on High 1 to 1 1/2 minutes until melted.
Add dry cake mix, 1 egg & cinnamon; beat
using elec. mixer until blended. Press 2/3
of dough onto bottom of prepared pan. Beat
cream cheese & sugar using elec. mixer until
blended. Add remaining egg; mix well-spread
over crust & top with fruit. Pinch small pieces
of remaining dough between your fingers; press
lightly into cream cheese layer. Bake 45-50
minutes until center is almost set. Cool completely
& refrigerate 1 hour. Using foil ‘handles’, lift
dessert from pan before cutting into bars.
Makes 32 bars

(recipe: kraftrecipes.com)
———————————-

Crockpot Bacon/Cheeseburger Dip

1 lb. lean ground beef or turkey
8 oz. cream cheese, cubed
2 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1 (10 oz.) can diced tomatoes with
green chilies
1 (6 oz) pkg. real bacon bits, divided:
(reserve 2 T. for garnish)
1 tsp. dried parsley
–
Assorted dippers
=
Brown ground meat in large skillet/drain.
Over Low heat, stir in cheeses, tomatoes &
juices, bacon bits; cook, stirring frequently
until all is heated through & well blended.
Pour into 2 qt. crockpot; cover & cook on
Low 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Stir in
parsley & sprinkle with remaining bacon bits
just before serving.

(recipe: americantimesfood.com)
——————————

Crockpot Breakfast Casserole

1 (30 oz) pkg. frozen shredded
hash brown potatoes
1 lb. bulk pork sausage, cooked/
drained
1 medium onion, chopped
1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies
1 1/2 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
12 large eggs
1 C. milk (2%)
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
–
Spray insides of crockpot with nonstick
cooking spray. Layer half of potatoes,
sausage, onion, chilies & cheese – repeat
layers. In large bowl whisk eggs, milk,
salt/pepper – pour on top of mixture.
Cover & cook on Low 7-9 hours or until
eggs are set. Serves 12

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
———————————–

Farmers Casserole  (OVEN)
(overnight recipe – possibly
breakfast?)

3 C. frozen hash browns
3/4 C. shredded Monterrey Jack or
Pepper Jack cheese
1 C. cooked, cubed ham
1/4 C. chopped green onion
4 eggs, well beaten
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
–
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking dish with nonstick
cooking spray. Arrange hash browns evenly
on bottom of dish; sprinkle top with cheese,
ham, onions. In a small bowl combine eggs,
evap. milk & seasonings – pour over potatoes/
cheeses. Refrigerate overnight.
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Bake casserole 40-50 minutes until set.
Let rest 5 minutes then cut & serve.

(recipe: food.com/Mike Suddaby/FB)
—————————

Grandma’s Sweet & Sour Meatballs

2 lb. lean ground beef
2 C. plain bread crumbs
1 C. milk
1 egg
salt/pepper, to taste

Sauce:
1 C. chopped green bell pepper
1 (20 oz) can pineapple chunks in
juice (including juice)
1 C. chopped onion
2/3 C. brown sugar
1 C. ketchup
1 C. water
4 T. vinegar
4 T. Worcestershire sauce
–
Cooked rice, noodles or
mashed potatoes to serve 10
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Lightly spray 9 X 13″ baking
dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Mix all ingredients in large bowl –
form into balls & place on prepared
dish in single layer. Combine all
sauce ingredients in another bowl &
pour over meatballs. Bake 1 hour
uncovered. Serve over cooked noodles,
rice or mashed potatoes.  Serves 10

(recipe: momontimeout.com)
——————————-

Reuben Nachos

1 large bag bagel chips
1/2 lb. deli corned beef, chopped
into bite-sized pieces
1/2 C. sauerkraut
1 1/2 C. shredded Swiss cheese
1 T. horseradish
Russian salad dressing, for serving
2 T. chives, finely chopped
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Scatter an even layer of bagel chips
on large rimmed baking sheet. Top
with half of sauerkraut, cheese &
horseradish. Add second layer of
bagel chips & top with remaining
sauerkraut/cheese/horseradish. Bake
until cheese is melted & chips are
slightly golden, about 10-15 minutes.
Drizzle nachos with Russian dressing
& garnish with chives. Serve warm.
Serves 8

(recipe: delish.com)
———————————–

Best Chicken Ever

4 boneless, skinless chicken
breasts cut in half (long way)
1 pkt. Ranch salad dressing mix
3/4 C. Panko bread crumbs
3/4 C. Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 C. melted butter
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a medium baking dish
with nonstick cooking spray.*
In medium bowl mix Ranch mix,
bread crumbs & Parmesan cheese.
Rinse chicken & pat dry using paper
towels. Melt butter in medium
microwaveable bowl. Dip each
piece of chicken into melted butter,
covering both sides. Press each
side of chicken in breading mix &
place in prepared dish. Sprinkle
rest of breading mix over chicken.
Bake 45 minutes.

*Poster also lined the baking dish
with foil, then sprayed with nonstick
spray – this prevents chicken sticking.

(recipe: americantimesfood.com)
——————————-

Easy Pistachio Pie

8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 (3.4 oz) pkg. Jell-O pistachio instant
pudding mix
1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with
juices
1 C. miniature marshmallows
1 (8 oz) tub Cool whip (OR) 1 C.
heavy whipping cream whipped to
stiff peaks
1 prepared pie crust* baked & cooled
–
In large bowl beat cream cheese &
dry pudding mix until light & fluffy. Beat
in crushed pineapple with juices – stir
in marshmallows. Fold in Cool Whip
(or whipped cream). Spoon mixture
into pie crust & chill at least 2 hours.
Optional Toppings:
Beat whipped cream & powdered sugar
together until stiff peaks form – pipe
on top of pie.
Maraschino cherries
Chopped pistachios

*Poster uses Nilla Wafer Pie crust
There is enough filling for a 9.5 inch
pie plate – you can serve extra filling
as a dessert.

(recipe: momontimeout.com)

========================

Hope all of your holiday plans are coming
together for you. I’m a List Maker – you will
find me with lists all over the place; my
attempt at trying to NOT FORGET anything!
(Example: today I had THREE grocery lists-
one for each of the two small grocers very
near to my house, One list for CVS and another
for Krogers). I read each of the store’s flyers
and then made my lists according to who had
the best prices for the items I needed to buy.
(Wish I’d remembered to bring my Kroger
list with me – planning on going there Weds.
but without that list I couldn’t remember who
had the best price on cream cheese or stick
butter, just to mention a few things . . . sigh).
(another example – while waiting at a red light
I suddenly remembered I needed to get gas
so I wrote that in BIG letters at the bottom
of my grocery list – just so I wouldn’t FORGET!)
…it worked!

Enjoy your day – enjoy your plans and try NOT
to STRESS over all the little things. NO MATTER
WHAT – life goes on. Better it go on with you
not having an ulcer over the stress of the moment.

Hugs;

Pammie