and still MORE Recipes!

and now we’re into the HOLIDAY week! Are you ready? I have my grocery shopping list arranged now – not sure just yet whether to go shopping today or tomorrow but it will get done. TONS of great-sounding recipes coming in so I wanted to share while you still have time to shop!

===========

Pumpkin Cake w/Caramel Cider Sauce

1 1/2 C. flour
1 C. granulated sugar
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
dash ground nutmeg
3/4 C. cooking oil
1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
2 eggs

Sauce:
1/2 C. brown sugar
1 T. cornstarch
2/3 C. apple cider
2 T. heavy cream
1 T. butter
salt, to taste
=
Optional additional topping:
Vanilla ice cream
=
Preheat oven 325 degrees F.
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray. In a large
bowl using elec. mixer, combine
flour, sugar, baking powder, baking
soda, salt, cinnamon & nutmeg.
Add oil, pumpkin & eggs – mix until
blended & pour into prepared dish.
Bake 30 minutes. Cool completely
& top with sauce before serving.

Sauce:
In a saucepan whisk brown sugar &
cornstarch. Add cider & stir in cream,
butter & salt. Cook over medium-high
heat, whisking constantly, until large
bubbles form around edge of saucepan,
about 3 minutes. Reduce heat to Low &
allow to thicken, about 2 minutes. Pour
sauce over top of cake (OR) you can top
each cake slice with a scoop of vanilla
ice cream & drizzle sauce over ice
cream. Serves 8-10

(recipe: mommyskitchen.net)
————————–
Charleston Cheese Dip
(cheese & bacon)

1/2 C. mayonnaise
1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 C. grated sharp Cheddar cheese
1/2 C. grated Monterey Jack cheese
2 green onions, finely chopped
dash cayenne pepper
8 Ritz crackers, crushed
8 slices bacon, cooked/crumbled
=
Dippers:
Corn chips
Bagel chips
Crackers
=
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
In medium bowl mix mayo, cream
cheese, Cheddar & Mont. Jack cheeses,
green onions & cayenne pepper. Transfer
mixture to a shallow baking dish. Top with
crushed crackers & bake 15 minutes until
heated through. Remove pan from oven &
top with bacon. Serve immediately with
corn chips, bagel chips or crackers for
dipping.

(recipe: mommyskitchen.net)
————————-

Cheesy Mushroom Crescent Roll
Appetizer

1/4 C. balsamic vinaigrette salad
dressing
1 lb. small fresh mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, sliced
1 (8 oz) can refrigerated crescent
dinner rolls
1/3 C. shredded Italian Mozzarella/
Parmesan cheese blend (Kraft)
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
In large skillet heat salad dressing
over medium heat. Add vegetables &
cook, stirring, 5-7 minutes until
liquid is cooked off. Cool. Unroll
cresc. dough on a baking sheet &
firmly press perforations & seams
together to form a 12 X 18″ rectangle.
Top with vegetable mixture to within
1/2 inch of edges; sprinkle with cheese.
Roll up, starting on one long side. Bake
25-30 minutes until golden brown. Cut
into 8 slices to serve.
Makes 8 appetizers

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

Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread

1 (8 oz) pkg. cream cheese
1/2 C. dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 C. chopped dried apricots
1 tsp. grated orange zest
–
Assorted crackers, for serving
=
In large bowl beat cream cheese, cranberries,
apricots & orange zest until blended. Chill
until serving – serve with crackers.
Makes 1 1/2 C.

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
—————-

Crockpot Turkey Breast

1 bone-in turkey breast (5-7 lb),
fully thawed
1 stick (1/2 C) butter, melted
1/2 tsp. rubbed sage
1 T. Italian seasoning
kosher salt, to taste
=
Place thawed turkey breast in
crockpot.* Pour melted butter
over & sprinkle with salt, then
sprinkle other seasonings over.
Cover & cook on Low 7-8 hours.

*Make sure you buy a turkey breast
that will fit in your crockpot. Poster
said the largest she’s been able to fit
in a 6 qt. crockpot is 7 lbs.

(recipe: southernplate.com)
———————-

Crockpot Hash Brown Casserole
(and OVEN version)

1 (26-32 oz) bag frozen hash browns,
thawed or frozen
1 (8 oz) tub sour cream
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1/4 C. onion, chopped fine
1 1/2 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1/4 C. butter, melted
salt/pepper, to taste (about 1/4 tsp. ea)
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick cooking spray.
In large bowl add hash browns, sour cream,
soup, onion, shredded cheese & melted
butter – mix to combine & spoon into
crockpot. Sprinkle salt/pepper on top.
Cover & cook on Low 4-5 hours until
done. Casserole should be crispy on
sides & bubbly throughout. Serves 8
=
Oven Version:
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray. Prepare recipe
as above & place in prepared dish.
Bake 45-50 minutes. Let cool & serve

(recipe: mommyskitchen.net)
—————————

Skillet Fried Cinnamon Apples

4 T. butter
5-6 Granny Smith or Golden Delicious
apples, peeled/cored/sliced semi-thick
splash of fresh lemon juice
1/4 C. light brown sugar
1/4 C. granulated sugar
2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 T. cornstarch
1/4 C. water
1/2 tsp. vanilla
–
In large cast iron skillet melt butter over
medium heat. Add sliced apples & splash
of lemon juice – saute apples 2-3 minutes.
In small bowl blend both sugars, cinnamon &
cornstarch – sprinkle over apples, stir to combine,
making sure all apples are fully coated. Add water
& vanilla – stir to combine. Lower heat to Medium-
Low & continue to saute 10-12 minutes until
the cinnamon syrup has thickened & apples are
fork-tender. Remove from heat & serve warm.
Makes 2-3 Cups

(recipe: mommyskitchen.net)
——————————

Easy Cranberry Fluff

1 C. fresh cranberries, rinsed/drained
1 (8 oz) can pineapple chunks
2 C. miniature marshmallows
2 C. shredded coconut
1 (8 oz) can pineapple tidbits, drained
1 C. chopped pecans
1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
–
Place fresh cranberries & pineapple chunks
in a food processor or blender  & pulse
together. Refrigerate 2 hours.
In a large bowl combine refrig. mixture with
marshmallows, coconut, pineapple tidbits
& pecans – fold in Cool Whip. Refrigerate
until ready to serve. Serves 10

(recipe: momontimeout.com)

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

Our weather has really been cooperating lately-
in the 40’s & clear; yes, there are ‘some’ piles of
snow here & there (usually from being plowed into
piles) but for the most part it’s SNOWLESS! YAY!
We actually have a predicted High of 53 on Weds.!
Some rain & clouds but you can walk & drive in
that!

Hope you are all staying warm & in good health.
Remember to not over stress yourself while attempting
to get all the arrangements/cooking/etc. done for the
holiday.

Hugs;

Pammie

More recipes!

Today is one of “THOSE” days – where it seems KEYS and I are not on speaking terms. Getting ready to go babysit – get out to the car with my purse, keys and knit bag. I have a remote-start car so I’d started the car a little earlier. Put everything where it needed to be and go to put the key in the slot – no car key! Believe me, I dug through everything at least twice. Finally, out of desperation I look at my knit bag again and there, sitting right on top, was the car key – UGH! I stopped at our mailbox on the way (we have a community/pedestal type mailbox) and got our mail. Went on my merry way, babysat, drove home and went to put my car key on my big key ring & get the house key ready – NO house key! OH NO! Again, tore through the car, my purse, my knit bag – no key. Drive to the mailbox IN THE DARK (and raining) to see if maybe it fell on the ground around the box. Just as I step out of the car I hear “Chink!” – it’s my keys – they were on my lap the whole time! UGH! Apparently they decided to come off the big ring all on their own. SOoooooo glad I’m home safe now! Crazy day!

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

Mini Gingerbread Loaves

18 graham crackers, finely crushed
(about 2 1/4 C.)
1 (3.4 oz) pkg. vanilla instant pudding mix
1/4 C. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 C. milk
1/2 C. sour cream
1 egg, beaten
2 T. honey
2-3 tsp. water, divided
1/2 C. powdered sugar
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Grease & flour FIVE 5 1/2 X 3 1/4
X 2 inch disposable mini loaf pans.
In medium bowl combine first 7
ingredients. Add milk, sour cream,
egg & honey – stir just until blended.
Pour into prepared loaf pans. Bake
30 minutes until a toothpick inserted
into centers comes out clean. Cool
completely.
Drizzle:
In small bowl add 2 tsp. water to 1/2 C.
powdered sugar – stir until blended. Add
remaining water, if necessary, until desired
drizzling consistency is achieved. Drizzle glaze
over loaves & let stand until glaze is firm.
Serves 12

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

Pumpkin Pie Dip

1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
3/4 C. brown sugar, not packed
1 tsp. vanilla
1/8 tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. pumpkin pie spice (or more,
to taste)
1 (6 oz) cup plain Greek yogurt
1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
–
Dippers: cut up apples, pears,
graham crackers or gingersnaps
=
In large bowl mix pumpkin with
brown sugar, vanilla & spices –
blend well. Mix in yogurt. Fold in
Cool Whip & refrigerate until
ready to serve.
Makes 12 servings

(recipe: skinnytaste.com)
————————-
Crockpot Harvest Pecan Sweet Potatoes

2 (29 oz, ea) cans sweet potatoes, drained
1/3 C. plus 2 tsp. butter, melted/divided
2 T. sugar
1/3 C. plus 2 T. brown sugar, packed/divided
1 T. orange juice
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 C. milk
–
Spray insides of crockpot with nonstick
cooking spray. In a large bowl mash
sweet potatoes. Mix in 1/3 C. melted butter,
sugar & 2 T. brown sugar. Add juice, eggs &
milk – beat well & place mixture in crockpot.
In separate bowl mix pecans, flour, rest of
brown sugar & butter – spread over potatoe
mixture. Cover & cookn High 3-4 hours.
Serves 8

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

Stuffing-stuffed Mushrooms

16 baby Portobello mushrooms
4 C. soft breadcrumbs
1/2 C. finely diced onion
finely chopped mushroom stems
2 T. chopped parsley
2 tsp. poultry seasoning
1/2 tsp. salt (to taste)
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 C. unsalted butter, divided
1/2 C. cooked/crumbled milk pork
sausage (optional)
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Separate stems from mushrooms & finely
chop stems – place them in a kitchen towel
& wring out excess moisture. In large, heavy-
oven-proof skillet melt 6 T. butter over medium
heat. Add onion & diced stems – cook until onion
is tender but not browned; remove from heat &
slightly cool. In a large bowl place breadcrumbs &
add parsley, poultry seasoning, salt/pepper &
sausage (if using). Add skillet veggies & any butter
in skillet into bowl – stir so all breadcrumbs are
coated. Divide mixture evenly between mushroom
caps & place them in the skillet you cooked onions/
stems in. Melt remaining 2 T. butter & drizzle over tops.
Bake 20-30 minutes until mushrooms begin to brown &
are crisp on top. Serves 8

(recipe: bakeatmidnite.com)
—————————

Cranberry Butter
(appetizer)

1/2 C. cranberries, finely chopped
(fresh or frozen)
1 C. unsalted butter, softened
1/3 C. powdered sugar
1 orange – zested, minced
–
In a bowl combine all ingredients,
pressing together & mixing until
well blended. Place on a large piece
of plastic wrap & roll to form a log.
Squeeze out (or blot with a paper towel)
any excess liquid then refrigerate until
firm.
Cut into rounds & serve with small bread
slices or crackers
Serves 15

(recipe: food.com)
————————–

Butternut-Pineapple Crumble

1 medium butternut squash (4 lb,
peeled/cubed)*
1 (8 oz) can unsweetened crushed
pineapple, drained
1 (8 oz) carton spreadable honey nut
cream cheese
2 T. butter, melted
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
12 tsp. ground nutmeg

Topping:
10 shortbread cookies, crushed
1/4 C. butter, melted
1 T. sugar
3/4 C. honey-roasted sliced almonds
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a 8″ square baking dish
with nonstick cooking spray.
Place squash in large saucepan;
cover with water & bring to boil.
Cook, covered, until tender, 15-20
minutes; drain. Cool slightly. Process
in a food processor until slightly chunky.
Add pineapple, cream cheese, butter,
cinnamon & nutmeg – process until
smooth. Transfer to prepared dish.

Topping:
Combine crushed cookies, butter &
sugar; sprinkle over squash mixture &
top with almonds. Bake, uncovered,
35-40 minutes, until edges are lightly
browned.
Serves 6

* You can substitute sweet potatoes
for the squash, if desired

NOTE: This dish is silky & smooth – if you
want a different texture you can skip
pureeing the pineapple.

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
——————————-

Garlic & Herb Spaghetti Squash

1 large spaghetti squash, (or 2 medium0
butter
1/2 tsp. garlic salt
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
fresh basil, chopped (optional)
–
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
Using a sharp knife, pierce squash
in several random spots. Place it in
microwave for 3 minutes (makes
the skin much easier to cut). Carefully
remove from microwave; using a sharp
knife, cut both ends of squash off. Slice
squash in 2 long halves (cut horizontally)
& using a spoon, scoop out the seeds.
Line a large baking sheet with parchment
paper & place squash halves, cut sides
down, onto sheet. Bake 30-40 minutes
until squash is soft when pierced with a
fork. Carefully remove pan from oven &
turn each half over (peel sides down). Bake
an additional 15 minutes until insides are
soft & easily shreddable with a fork.
Remove pan from oven – using a fork, fluff
insides of squash. Add a little butter to both
squash halves & sprinkle remaining seasonings
over top; toss to combine. Serves 2

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

Wild Rice Soup

1/3 C. uncooked wild rice
1 T. canola oil
1 quart water
1 medium onion, chopped
1 rib celery, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, finely chopped
1/2 C. butter
1/2 C. flour
3 C. chicken broth
2 C. Half & Half cream
1/2 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed
1 tsp. salt
–
In medium saucepan combine rice,
oil & water – bring to boil. Reduce
heat, cover & simmer 30 minutes.
In Dutch oven, cook onion, celery &
carrot in butter until almost tender.
Stir in flour until well blended; cook
& stir 2 minutes. Slowly stir in broth &
undrained rice- bring to boil. Cook &
stir until slightly thickened (2 minutes).
Reduce heat; stir in cream, rosemary &
salt – simmer, uncovered, until rice is
tender, about 20  minutes.
Makes about 2 qts – 8 servings

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
————————–

Cranberry Crisp Cake

1 box white cake mix, divided
2 T. butter, melted
1 tsp. water
1/2 C. chopped pecans, toasted
1 (12 oz) pkg. fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 C. sugar
1/2 C. red raspberry preserves
6 oz. cream cheese, softened
3 large eggs
1/2 C. 2% milk
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking dish with
nonstick cooking spray.

Topping:
In a bowl combine 3/4 C. cake mix (dry),
butter & water – stir in pecans.

Filling:
In another bowl combine cranberries, sugar,
preserves & 2 T. cake mix

In a third bowl combine cream cheese, eggs,
milk, pie spice & remaining cake mix. Using
elec. mixer, beat on Low speed 30 seconds.
Beat on Medium 2 minutes then pour
batter into prepared pan & smooth top.
Spoon cranberry filling on top to within
1/2 inch of edges. Sprinkle with topping to
edges of pan. Bake 55-60 minutes until a
toothpick inserted into center comes out
clean. Cool in pan on a wire rack.
Serves 15

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)

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

That’s it for now – time to go relax a bit.
Dinner tonight is super easy: cheese-stuffed
brats on buns! I’ve learned – on nights when
I’m out late (special needs group, babysitting,
choir practice & evening church) dinner HAS
to be super easy.

Hope you had a great day!

Stay healthy & warm;

Hugs;

Pammie

and how are YOU doing?

It’s been a busy week so far – my husband & I attended a retired Telephone Operators luncheon yesterday and I saw someone I haven’t seen in over 35 years! We had a nice chat with old friends then stopped at Crossroads Pregnancy Center to deliver the three baby blankets I featured in the last post – it’s always nice to have someone really appreciate my efforts – they were thrilled. I told them I would be back in about 3 months with more.

I stopped at Kroger after my library knit group today and they are in FULL SWING with all the Thanksgiving food stuffs. Honestly, I’m not at all ready for this holiday – just don’t seem to be in ‘the mood’ but that doesn’t count, right? The day WILL go on and I WILL cook food & bring it to my oldest son’s house for that day. I’m getting LOTS of holiday recipes coming in so I knew I had to post soon.

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

Butter Pecan Layer Cake

2 2/3 C. chopped pecans
1 1/4 C. butter, softened/divided
2 C. sugar
4 large eggs, room temp.
2 tsp. vanilla
3 C. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 C. whole milk

Frosting:
1 C. butter, softened
8 to 8 1/2 C. powdered sugar
1 (5 oz) can evaporated milk
2 tsp. vanilla
=
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Grease & flour three 9″ round baking
pans.
Place pecans & 1/4 C. butter in a separate
baking pan & bake 10-15 minutes until toasted,
stirring frequently.
In large bowl cream sugar & remaining until
light & fluffy. Add 1 egg at a time, beating well
after each addition; stir in vanilla. Combine
flour, baking powder & salt; add to creamed
mixture alternately with milk, beating well
after each addition. Stir in 1 1/3 C. toasted
pecans. Pour mixture into prepared pans & bake
25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into
center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes before
removing from pans to wire racks to cool
completely.
=
Frosting:
In a large bowl cream butter & powdered sugar;
add milk & vanilla – beat until smooth. Stir in
remaining toasted pecans. Spread frosting
between layers & on top & sides of cake.
Serves 16

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

Butternut Squash Panzanella Salad

6 C. cubed day-old French bread
(bite-sized cubes)
3 T. olive oil
1/2 tsp. chili powder
1/4 tsp. salt

Salad:
4 C. peeled/cubed butternut
squash (1 1/2″ cubes)
1 1/2 C. sliced fresh mushrooms
1/2 C. olive oil, divided
1/2 tsp. salt, divided
1/2 tsp. black pepper, divided
6 C. fresh argula or fresh baby
spinach
6 T. sherry vinegar
3 shallots, thinly sliced
1/2 C. salted, roasted almonds
6 T. crumbed goat cheese
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Toss bread cubes with oil, chili
powder & salt – spread evenly on
ungreased 15 X 10 X 1″ baking sheet.
Bake about 5 minutes until golden
brown. Transfer to a large bowl & cool.

Spray another 15 X 10 X 1″ baking sheet
with nonstick cooking spray.
In another large bowl combine squash &
mushrooms. Add 2 T. oil, 1/4 tsp. salt &
1/4 tsp. pepper – toss to coat. Transfer
to sprayed sheet & toast until tender,
20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add arugula & squash mixture to toasted
bread. In small bowl whisk vinegar, shallots
& remaining oil, salt/pepper – drizzle over
salad; toss gently to combine. Top with
almonds & goat cheese. Serve immediately.
Serves 8

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
——————————–

Roasted Honey Sweet Potatoes

6 medium sweet potatoes, peeled/
cut into 1-inch cubes
1/3 C. honey
1/4 C. olive oil
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. black pepper
–
Spray a 15 X 10 X 1″ rimmed baking
sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
Preheat oven 375 degrees F. Place
potatoes in large bowl. In another
bowl whisk honey, oil, salt, cinnamon
& pepper – add to potatoes; toss to coat.
Transfer to prepared baking sheet & roast
45-50 minutes until tender, stirring once.
Serves 12

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
———————————
Fresh Ginger Carrot Salad

2 (8 oz, ea) cans unsweetened crushed
pineapple, undrained
3 1/2 C. shredded carrots
1 C. raisins
3/4 C. sweetened shredded coconut
1/2 C. chopped walnut
1 1/2 C. plain yogurt
2 tsp. minced fresh gingerroot.
–
Drain crushed pineapple, reserving
3 T. juice. In bowl combine pineapple,
carrots, raisins, coconut & walnuts. In
another bowl combine yogurt, ginger &
reserved pineapple juice – pour over
carrot mixture & toss gently to coat.
Refrigerate at least 1 hour before
serving. Serves 6

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
—————————

Crockpot Holiday 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 large crockpot, flat
side down. Rub brown sugar all
over sides of ham then drizzle
with juice & syrup. Cover & cook
on Low 4-6 hours. Serves 12

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

Crockpot Sausage Dressing/Stuffing

7 C. seasoned stuffing cubes or croutons
1 medium tart apple, chopped
1/3 C. chopped pecans
1 1/2 tsp. rubbed sage
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 lb. reduced-fat bulk pork sausage
1 large onion, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
1 (14.5 oz) can chicken broth
2 T. butter, melted
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick cooking spray.
In large skillet cook & crumble sausage
with onion & celery over medium-high
heat until sausage is no longer pink.,
4-5 minutes; drain. In large bowl combine
first 5 ingedients then mix with stuffing.
Stir in broth & butter – place in crockpot.
Cover & cook on Low 3-4 hours until
apple is tender, stirring once.
Serves 12

(recipe: tasteofhome.com)
————————

Bacon Cheese Ring
(appetizer dip)

3 C. shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 C. shredded Mozzarella cheese
1/2 C. mayonnaise
1 C. cream cheese, softened
1/2 C. bacon bits
1/2 C. chopped green onions
1 (16 oz) jar strawberry preserves
1/4 C. pecan pieces
–
Butter crackers, for dipping
=
In large bowl mix shredded cheeses.
Add gr. onions & bacon bits – mix in
softened cream cheese & mayo. Be
sure not to make mixture too creamy or
it may not hold it’s form.

Spray a serving plate with nonstick cooking
spray. Sprinkle edges with pecan pieces –
place cheese mixture in center into a
ball-shape. Top with strawberry preserves.
Serve with butter crackers. Serves 12

NOTE: another tester used Pepper Jack
instead of mozzarella

(recipe: cdkitchen.com)
—————————

Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake

Sauce:
3/4 C. fresh cranberries
1/4 C. sugar
1/4 C. water
1/2 tsp. fresh orange zest

Crust:
3 oz. gingersnap crumbs (from 12
gingersnap cookies)
1 oz. pecans, crushed
1 1/2 T. light butter, melted

Cheesecake:
8 oz cream cheese
1/4 C. sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 (6 oz) tub plain Greek yogurt
2 egg whites
2 T. fresh lemon juice
1 T. flour
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Place oven rack in middle of oven
Line a 8 X 8″ baking pan with waxed
paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on
all sides.
–
Sauce:
In small saucepan combine cranberries,
sugar, water & orange zest. Cook until
cranberries begin to burst & mixture
turns soupy, 6-7 minutes. Remove from
heat; allow to cool.

Crust:
In small bowl combine gingersnap
crumbs, crushed pecans & light butter.
Stir to  moisten crumbs then pour into
prepared baking pan. Spread in an even
layer, using bottom of a drinking glass
to help ensure the crust is even.

Cheesecake:
In medium bowl using elec. mixer,
beat cream cheese, sugar & vanilla
until smooth. Add yogurt, egg whites,
lemon juice & flour, mixing until just
combined. Pour mixture into pan over
crust & smooth with a spatula. Add
cooled cranberry mixture to a food
processor – puree until smooth (if
mixture is too thick, add 1/2 T. water).
Use a spoon to drop sauce over cheesecake
then swirl sauce with a butter knife.
Bake 25 minutes.
Allow to cool to room temp. & refrigerate
several hours to get well chilled. Once
chilled, cut into squares. Serves 9

(recipe: skinnytaste.com)

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

Because I had fun crocheting the last baby blanket AND
because I have so many small balls/skeins of baby yarn
I decided to try a (new to me) FLOWER granny square
& make a blanket out of leftover yarn. It’s going well
but because the squares are only 4 inches I will need
48 to complete the blanket (and then crochet an edge
around it). With that project, now I’m up to 3 baby
blankets and the baby booties – keeps me busy & out
of trouble!

Hope you are well and into the Fall/Thanksgiving
preparations. Weather-wise we have been blessed
with slightly warmer temperatures which have VERY
NICELY melted a LOT of the 8 1/2 inches of snow we
got last week. Roads & sidewalks are clear, driving is
great – walking is great and I’m happy! I don’t mind
a bit chilly – it’s the icy/mounded snow I worry about.

Stay warm & healthy;

Hugs;

Pammie

and HEeeeeeere’s Winter – full blast!

Yes, I live in Michigan and yes, we get the cold weather BUT – in mid-November? NO! I can remember Thanksgiving celebrations many years ago when we would get a light dusting of snow but 4-6 INCHES 2 weeks BEFORE Thanksgiving? NO!!! Yes, I read in our local paper a few days ago that we ‘might’ get an Arctic blast but really – 4-6 INCHES? It started during the night and is still coming down. I remembered to call a snow plow removal guy this morning to get signed up – that much snow will definitely bury our driveway. I don’t have anywhere to go today but my sons might. Ah, the fun . . . sigh.

Managed to start another baby blanket using the Star Stitch (same stitch was in one of the blanket photos from the last post.) It’s an easy stitch and, this time, I just decided to go with white and a blues/white variegated yarn, in stripes – looks nice so far (and this pattern goes rather quickly).

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

Pumpkin Spiced Snickerdoodles

1 3/4 C. (white whole wheat) flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. cream of tartar
1 C. sugar
1/4 C. butter, softened
1 T. honey
1 tsp. vanilla
1 large egg
3 T. sugar
1 T. pumpkin pie spice
–
Preheat oven 375 degrees F.
Spray 2 baking sheets with
nonstick cooking spray. In medium
bowl combine flour, baking soda &
cream of tartar, stirring with a whisk.
In large bowl combine 1 C. sugar & butter;
using elec. mixer on medium speed, beat
until well blended. Add honey, vanilla &
egg – beat well. Gradually add flour
mixture to sugar mixture; beating
until just combined. Cover & chill
10 minutes.
In medium bowl combine 3 T. sugar with
pumpkin pie spice, stirring with a whisk
to combine. With moist hands, shape
dough into 42 (1-inch) balls. Roll balls
in sugar/pumpkin mixture & place
2 inches apart on baking sheets. Slightly
flatten with a fork.
Bake 5-7 minutes (cookies will be
slightly soft). Cool on sheets 2 minutes
then remove from pans & cool completely
in wire racks. Makes 42 cookies

(recipe: skinny taste.com)
————————–

Crockpot Turkey Breast w/Gravy

1 1/2 T. unsalted butter or olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 carrot, peeled/chopped
1 rib celery, chopped
6 cloves garlic, peeled/crushed
1/3 C. flour
2 C. chicken broth
1 C. water
1/4 C. dry white wine (can use water)
2 T. fresh sage
2 bay leaves
1 (5 lb) turkey breast, bone in/skin on
(removed later), trimmed of fat
salt/pepper
–
In a 12-inch skillet over medium-high
heat, melt butter. Add onion, carrot,
celery & garlic – cook 8-10  minutes until
onion is soft. Stir in flour; cook until
golden brown, about 2 minutes. Stir in
1 C. broth & scrape up any browned bits
on bottom of pan – smooth out any lumps
& pour into crockpot. Add remaining
broth, water, wine, sage & bay leaves to
crockpot. Season turkey with salt/pepper &
place skin-side-up in crockpot. Cover & cook
on Low 5-7 hours (until turkey reaches
165 degrees F. with an instant-read
thermometer). Transfer turkey to a cutting
board & tent loosely with foil – let it rest
20 minutes. Let liquid in crockpot set 5
minutes then remove the fat from surface
using a large spoon. Strain liquid into saucepan;
discard celery & bay leaves. Simmer until
thickened, about 15 minutes. Season with
salt/pepper, to taste. Discard skin & carve
turkey – serve with gravy. Serves 10

(recipe: skinnytaste.com)
————————–

Easy Garlic/Cheddar Biscuits

2 T. butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 T. fresh chopped parsley
2 C. Bisquick baking mix
3.5 oz. shredded sharp Cheddar
cheese
2/3 C. milk
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Line a cookie sheet with parchment
paper. In small frying pan melt butter;
add half garlic & saute on Low heat
1 minute. Remove from heat; add
parsley. In large bowl combine Bisquick
mix, Chedd. cheese & remaining garlic.
Stir in milk & mix (do not over mix).
Drop batter by heaping Tablespoons
onto prepared sheet. Bake 10 minutes.
Brush or drizzle tops with melted
butter. Bake 5 more minutes until
lightly browned on bottoms.
Makes 14 servings

(recipe: skinnytaste.com)
—————————-
Brussels Sprouts Gratin

16 oz. brussels sprouts, trimmed of
outer leaves/sliced in half
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
black pepper, to taste
1/2 T. butter
1/3 C. chopped shallots
2 T. flour
3/4 C. milk
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. fresh thyme
1 T. grated Parmesan cheese
2 oz. grated Gruyere cheese, divided
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Spray a 8 X 12″ gratin or casserole
dish with nonstick cooking spray. Add
brussels sprouts & season with salt/
pepper. Spray more cooking spray
over sprouts & place in lower third
of oven. Bake 15 minutes, toss &
bake an additional 10 minutes.
MEANWHILE =
Heat a medium nonstick pan over
medium heat. Add butter & melt; add
shallots – cook until softened, 4-5 minutes.
Sprinkle flour over shallots  & whisk 1-2
minutes (making a roux). Add milk & stir
with a wooden spoon until roux is
incorporated into milk. Cook over medium-
low heat 4 minutes, stirring until sauce thickens.
Add fresh thyme, Parm. & half grated Gruyere
into sauce – stir until cheese melts & is
incorporated into sauce. Pour over brussels
sprouts & top with remaining cheese. Bake
15 minutes until top is lightly browned &
bubbly. Serves 6

(recipe: skinnytaste.com)
—————————-

Carrot Ginger Soup

1 T. unsalted butter
1 large white onion, chopped
3 C. vegetable broth
1 lb. peeled baby carrots
1 T. grated fresh ginger
1/4 C. sour cream
kosher salt
white pepper, to taste
–
Optional garnish:
2 T. fresh micro greens or chives
=
In large pot or Dutch oven melt
butter over medium heat; add
onions & cook, stirring often,
until onions are soft, 5-6 minutes.
Add broth, carrots & ginger – cover &
bring to boil. Reduce heat & simmer
until carrots are soft, about 30 minutes.
Add sour cream (using an immersion
blender or, in batches, in regular blender);
carefully blend until smooth. Bring soup back
to boil; adjust salt & pepper to taste. Ladle
into 4 bowls, garnish with a little more sour
cream & fresh chives, if desired.
Makes 5 Cups

(recipe: skinnytaste.com)
——————————

Paprika Chicken Thighs w/Rice

6-8 chicken thighs (bone in/skin on)
2 T. olive oil
2 T. butter
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
2 T. smoked paprika
1 tsp. garlic powder
pinch cayenne
1/2 C. chopped green onions
1/2 C. chopped sweet green or
red peppers
2 C. chopped baby spinach
1 (14.5 oz) can chicken broth
2 C. heavy cream
2 C. instant white rice
=
Optional garnish: chopped
green onions
=
In large skillet heat butter & olive
oil. In a shallow pan (like a pie plate)
combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic
powder & cayenne. Roll each chicken
thigh in mixture & brown in skillet on
both sides until skin is cooked & blackened.
Remove thighs from skillet. Add green onion
& peppers to skillet & cook. Add baby spinach &
pour in broth & heavy cream – stir & bring to a
low boil. Add rice & simmer 3-4 minutes. Add
chicken back to skillet. Cover & simmer about
15 minutes. Remove from heat & let stand
5-10 minutes before serving so rice will soak
up liquid. Garnish with chopped green onions,
if desired. Serves 6-8

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

Crockpot Autumn Apple-Pecan Dressing

4 C. soft bread crumbs
1 C. saltine crackers, crushed
1 1/2 C. apples: peeled/cored/chopped
1 C. chopped pecans
1 C. onion, chopped
1 C. celery, chopped
2/3 C. chicken broth
1/4 C. butter, melted
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. dried sage
–
Combine bread crumbs, cracker
crumbs, apples, pecans, onion &
celery in bottom of crockpot. In
a small bowl mix remaining ingredients
until well blended. Pour into crockpot &
toss to coat. Cover & cook on Low 4-5
hours until dressing is puffed & golden
around edges. Serves 12

(recipe: gooseberrypatch.com)

---

Skinny Apple Cobbler

Apple filling:
2 1/2 lbs. Gala apples, peeled/cored/
sliced 1/4″ thick
1/2 C. honey
2 T. cornstarch
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
pinch salt
2 T. fresh lemon juice
1/2 C. water
–
Topping:
1/4 C. white whole wheat flour
1/4 C. flour
2 T. granulated sugar
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
2 T. chilled whipped butter
1/3 C. buttermilk
1 T. canola oil
1 tsp. light brown sugar, unpacked
–
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Spray 6 (8 oz) ramekins with
nonstick cooking spray.
In large, heavy pot combine all
apple filling ingredients – simmer
on Low heat 25 minutes, gently
stirring occasionally until apples
are soft. Divide into prepared
ramekins.
In medium bowl whisk flours,
gran. sugar, baking powder, baking
soda & salt. Cut in chilled butter
(MUST be cold), using a pastry
cutter (or 2 knives) until pebble-
sized pieces are formed. In small
bowl combine buttermilk & oil –
mix well. Add to dry mixture & mix
until just moistened, careful not to
over-mix. Spoon batter over apples
in ramekins. Sprinkle tops with
brown sugar & bake 30  minutes until
apples are bubbling & topping is
golden. Let stand 8-10 minutes before
serving. Makes 6

(recipe: skinnytaste.com)

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

Tomorrow night is my knit/crochet group
at Panera. As I posted on Facebook – ‘come
if you’re feeling ‘adventurous’! The weather
report says that it’s supposed to be clear by
tomorrow (no more snow) but I’m not really
sure I trust that report. Right now it’s a ‘balmy’
27 degrees F.; supposed to be a High of 25
tomorrow & no new snow expected until
Wednesday night and that’s just a ‘chance’ of
snow showers – we’ll see.

Glad I got out all my winter clothes – went
from short sleeved tops & jumped straight
into heavy sweatshirts! Oh well – that’s life,
right? Gotta ‘roll with the punches’, or so
they say.

Stay warm & healthy;

Hugs;

Pammie

A little drive in the country

Today I ‘attempted’ to deliver the three baby blankets to my new charity: Crossroads Center in Auburn Hills, MI. It’s about a 20 minute drive – beautiful day, I found it without much trouble EXCEPT the one thing I forgot to do: check their hours! Yep – closed Friday, Saturday, Sunday! Oh well – it was a nice little drive in the ‘country’. Here are the blankets:

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

Some really tasty-sounding recipes are coming in so I wanted to share.

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

Magic Pumpkin Layer Cake

1 box yellow or white cake mix
(plus ingredients to make cake)
1 (30 oz) can pumpkin pie filling mix
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
2 eggs
1 (3.5 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice, divided
1 C. cold milk
1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
–
Optional topping/decoration:
mini cinnamon chips
=
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray 9 X 13″ baking dish with nonstick
cooking spray. Prepare cake mix accordg.
to pkg. directions & pour into prepared
pan.
In a bowl mix pumpkin pie mix, eggs,
evap. milk & 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice –
stir well & pour slowly onto cake batter
over entire cake. Bake 50-60 minutes.
(Cake will look a bit darker than what you’re
used to – that’s OK). Cool cake completely
(at least a couple hours)
–
Once cake is cooled, prepare topping:
Topping:
In a bowl combine instant pudding mix with
1 tsp. pumpkie pie spice; pour in cold milk &
whisk until pudding  begins to thicken. Gently
fold in Cool Whip & spread over cooled cake.
(sprinkle optional topping on top)
Serves 12

NOTE: You can serve this immediately but
poster recommends refrigerating at least
1 hour before serving.

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

Chicken & Summer Squash
(crockpot)

3 lb. boneless skinless chicken
breasts
2 (10.5 oz, ea) cans cream of
chicken soup
4 small summer squash, sliced
(poster used yellow squash)
16 oz. sour cream
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 1/2 C. Cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp. garlic salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 T. butter, room temp.
1 C. bread crumbs
dried parsley, optional garnish
paprika, optional garnish
–
hot cooked rice or pasta to
serve 8
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick spray. Place chicken
breasts in bottom of crockpot. In
large bowl mix soup, sour cream,
onion, cheese, garlic salt, pepper
& butter. Fold in sliced squash &
mix well to coat – pour over
chicken. Sprinkle bread crumbs on
top. Cover & cook on Low 8 hours
or High 4-5 hours. (chicken should
be fully cooked when it reaches
165 degrees F. using a thermometer).
Serve over hot cooked rice or pasta
& garnish with dried parsley and/or
paprika. Serves 8

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

Crustless Spinach, Onion, Feta Quiche

1 medium onion, diced
6 oz. baby spinach
3 large eggs*
1/2 C. flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
pinch cayenne pepper
1 1/3 C. milk
1/2 C. feta cheese
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Lightly spray (using nonstick
cooking spray) a 10 inch quiche/
tart pan (or pie plate). In medium
skillet cook onion with a bit of
vegetable oil (or cooking spray)
over medium-high heat until
translucent & tender. Add spinach
& cook until spinach wilts. Set
aside to cool for a few minutes.
In large bowl whisk eggs, flour &
baking powder. Whisk in milk then
stir in spinach mixture – pour into
prepared dish & top with feta cheese.
Bake 25 minutes until center is set
& outside edge is golden brown. Let
stand 5 minutes then slice & serve.
Serves 6

*NOTE: original recipe called for
2 eggs & 1/2 C. Egg Beaters (liquid
substitute)

(recipe: myskinnypoints.com)
———————————

Crockpot Cinnamon Roll Casserole

1 (12.4 oz) can refrigerated
cinnamon roll dough
1/2 C. whipping cream
4 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
3 T. maple syrup
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
(sugar icing – optional, often
included in dough container)
–
Remove dough from can; cut
each piece into quarters. In large
bowl combine whipping cream,
eggs, vanilla, maple syrup, cinnamon
& nutmeg; whisk until smooth.
Place three-fourths of quartered
pieces in bottom of 4-quart crockpot.
Pour cream mixture on top & layer
remaining pieces on top. Cover &
cook on High 1 hour 45 minutes. If
your dough came with icing, drizzle
over warm casserole before serving.
Serves 4-6

NOTE: For a more festive flavor: omit
nutmeg & mix zest of 1 clementine
orange with 1 T. granulated sugar –
sprinkle over top of casserole instead
of using icing.

(recipe: cooktopcove.com)
————————————

Eggplant & Tomato Sauce (or
can be used on pasta)

1 medium eggplant, cut into 1/2
inch cubes
4 cloves garlic, smashed & chopped
2 T. olive oil
1 (28 oz) can plum tomatoes, do
not drain)
salt/black pepper, to taste
chopped basil or parsley – optional
garnish
–
Heat oil in large, deep skillet over
medium-high heat. When hot, saute
garlic in oil. Add eggplant & cook
about 3 minutes, until it begins to
soften. Coarsely chop the tomatoes &
add to skillet along with juices. Season
with salt/pepper & simmer, uncovered,
15-20 minutes. Add chopped herbs,
if using & serve over your favorite
(cooked) pasta. Serves 4 (3/4 C. sauce
each)

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

Bacon/Cheddar/Beer Cheese Dip

8 oz. cream cheese, room temp.
2 C. (8 oz) shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 C. sour cream
1/2 C. beer
3/4 C. bacon bits
1 C. cooked yellow corn
3 T. diced jalapenos
1/3 C. salsa
=
green onion, sliced
limes – optional, for serving
cilantro – optional, for serving
=
In a large saucepan add cream
cheese, Cheddar cheese, sour cream &
beer over medium heat. Heat, stirring
regularly, until fully melted & smooth.
Add bacon bits, corn, jalapenos & salsa –
stir until well combined. Remove from
heat & pour into a serving bowl. Garnish
with green onions, limes, cilantro &
any other additional garnishes. Serve
warm.

(recipe: yummly.com)
—————————-
Peanut Butter French Toast

2 T. butter
4 slices white bread
1/2 C. creamy peanut butter
2 T. grape jelly
3 eggs, beaten
1/4 C. milk

(optional garnish: powdered sugar)
=
In a nonstick skillet over medium
heat melt butter.
Make 2 sandwiches with bread,
peanut butter & jelly. In a bowl
whisk eggs & milk. Dip each sandwich
into egg mixture & place in hot pan.
Cook sandwiches on each side (about
2-3 minutes per side) until golden.
Serve sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Serves 2

(recipe: gooseberrypatch.com)

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

Our weather has definitely kicked in to high
gear – it was 33 degrees F. when I got up today
and now it’s a ‘balmy’ 34! Light dusting of snow
on the ground but a beautiful clear blue sky so
even if it’s cold, it’s nice. (meaning: can be
tolerated with warm clothes/jacket/gloves).

This ‘no-babysitting’ week has felt strange (don’t
get me wrong – I’m not complaining, just commenting).
I was supposed to go out to lunch with a friend on Monday
but she cancelled. Tuesday was a kind of non-day – just
grocery shopping. Wed. Knit Group & special needs
group, yesterday – nada . . . just made my family’s
favorite dinner: Meat & Potato Pie (it’s basically just
a meatloaf in a 9 X 13″ pan frosted with mashed
potatoes then topped with Cheddar cheese – put it
under the broiler to melt the cheese – they love it.
Today – not much planned, either! Sure feels weird
with NO PLANNED things to do! I’m kind of tossing
around making another baby blanket with either
6 or 7″ squares using up a lot of baby yarns – we’ll
see. Problem with that is: the yarns are various
‘weights’ – some are baby weight, some are worsted
but that’s a problem for me to figure out, right?

Hope you’re having a GREAT day! Remember to
look outside & enjoy a little of God’s creations!

Hugs;

Pammie

FINALLY – we have a garbage service!

 

We live in a Township – our township officials recently decided to go to ONE company to handle ALL of our township. They held a bid – 3 companies entered, one was chosen. (Our old company was not chosen and decided to get really nasty with it’s customers: they sent us all notices that come the end of October we would have to find a new service – no exceptions). Great . . . to make this short I have spent the past THREE WEEKS attempting to contact the new company – by phone, on line, & by emails – CRAZY POOR service! By phone you get a recording, on line you get to the page where you sign up & the page FREEZES! by email they sent me an immediate reply saying they would call me – nothing . . . nothing for THREE WEEKS! Today husband & I went at it again and FINALLY got through – our first day will be this Friday. UGH! Before this new change it was not unusual for FIVE DIFFERENT COMPANIES to drive their trucks through the neighborhood behind me – EVERY DAY! Talk about wrecking the roads! We’ll see where this goes.

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

(I have to preface the following recipe – one of my friends in our Sunday School class made this recently & it’s REALLY TASTY!)

Pumpkin Dump Cake

1 (29 oz) can pumpkin puree
3 eggs
1/2 C. brown sugar
1/2 C. granulated sugar
1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. ground cloves
1 box cake mix (yellow, white or spice)
1/2 C. coarsely chopped pecans
1/2 C. melted butter
–
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking dish with nonstick
cooking spray. In large bowl combine
pumpkin, eggs, brown sugar, gran. sugar &
milk. Stir in cinnamon, ginger, cloves & pour
into prepared pan. Sprinkle dry cake mix
evenly over top then sprinkle pecans over
dry cake mix. Drizzle melted butter over all.
Bake 50-60 minutes until edges are lightly
browned. Allow to cool.
Serves 12

(recipe: allrecipes.com)
———————————-

Cheesy 1-Pan Zucchini Taco Skillet

2 zucchini squash, coarsely chopped
1/2 large onion, coarsely chopped
1 C. corn (fresh, frozen or canned)-
drain if using canned
1 C. black beans, drained/rinsed
1 lb. gr. beef (or turkey)
1 T. ground cumin
1 T. chili powder
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. paprika
salt/pepper, to taste
1/2 C. plain tomato or
enchilada sauce
1 tsp. olive oil
1/2 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. black pepper
1 C. grated cheese (poster used Cheddar &
Pepper Jack, combined)
=
Additional optional toppings:
chopped green onion
diced tomatoes
chopped or sliced jalapeno peppers
sour cream
Greek yogurt
fresh cilantro
salsa
guacamole
crushed tortilla chips
pico de gallo
======
Heat a 9/10 or 11 inch cast iron skillet to
medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive
oil in bottom. Brown meat until cooked &
not pink; drain & crumble. Season with
cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika,
salt/pepper. Add tom/ench. sauce & mix
well. Transfer to a bowl & keep warm.
Add 1 tsp. oil to skillet & heat. Add
onion & saute 3-4 minutes until edges are
golden. Add corn & cook until tender (this
will take longer if fresh/frozen). Add zucchini
& continue cooking 3-4 minutes until softened
but al dente. Reduce heat to Low & top with
taco meat & black beans; sprinkle with 1 C.
cheese (or more, if desired). Cover until cheese
melts. Spoon into bowls & top with optional
toppings, if desired. Serves 4

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

Potato Leek Soup

1 C. Vidalia onions, chopped
5 C. leeks, chopped (white only)
& cleaned of sand
1 C. celery, chopped
1/2 C. celery leaves, chopped
2 T. fresh garlic, minced
1 1/2 lb. yellow potatoes (like Yukon
Gold) peeled/diced
1 lb. Russet potatoes, peeled/diced
2 qts. chicken (or vegetable) broth
2 bay leaves
4 thyme sprigs
1 tsp. sea salt (depending on how
salty your broth is)
1/2 tsp. white pepper
1 C. heavy cream
–
chopped chives – garnish
=
In a 4-5 qt. stock pot melt butter
over medium heat; add onions, leeks,
celery & leaves – saute 10 minutes
until soft. Add garlic – cook 2 more
minutes. Add both potatoes & stock;
increase heat. Tie bay leavs & fresh
thyme together with butcher’s twine;
add to pot along with salt/pepper. Bring
to boil then lower to simmer – simmer
15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Remove thyme/bay leaves – discard.
Puree soup (in small batches) in a blender
(or use an immersion blender). Stir in
cream & taste to adjust salt/pepper, if
needed. Serve topped with chopped
fresh chives. Serves 10

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

Crockpot Beef & Noodles

1 (2 lb) beef chuck roast
2 (10.5 oz, ea) cans cream of mushroom
with roasted garlic soup
1 pkt. dry onion soup mix
1 (12 oz) pkg. egg noodles
–
sour cream – garnish
–
Place roast, soups & dry soup mix in
crockpot. Cover & cook on High 5 hours
or 7-8 hours on Low. Shred beef. Cook
egg noodles accordg. to pkg. directions;
drain & add to roast & gravy. Serve with
sour cream. Serves 6-8

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

5-Ingredient Mexican Brown Rice

1 1/2 C. corn (frozen or fresh)
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained/
rinsed
3 C. whole grain brown rice (or
Minute Ready to Serve Rice or
other quick-cooking rice)
1 T. chili powder
1 C. salsa (jarred or homemade)
–
Optional garnish: fresh cilantro
and/or diced avocado
=
Preheat large skillet over medium heat.
Add corn & black beans – cook until
corn is tender, about 3 minutes. Add
rice & chili powder, stir to combine.
Cook, stirring constantly, about 3
minutes. Stir in salsa & cook until
everything is combined & warmed
through, about 2 minutes. Remove from
heat & let cool 5-10 minutes then garnish
with optional garnish & serve.
Makes 6 (1 C. each) servings

Can be used as a main entre, or with tacos,
enchiladas or fajitas or as a vegetarian
burrito filling

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

Make-ahead Biscuits & Gravy
(overnight recipe)

1 lb. bulk pork sausage
1/4 C. flour
3 C. milk
1 1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. chili powder
2 1/4 C. Bisquick baking mix
1/2 C. sour cream
1/4 C. butter, melted
–
Spray a 9 X 13″ baking dish
with nonstick cooking spray.
In large skillet cook sausage over
medium heat until no longer pink,
6-8 minutes, breaking into crumbles.
Remove sausage using slotted soon,
discard grease but reserve 1/4 C. in
skillet. Stir in flour until blended &
cook, stirring, until golden brown,
1-2 minutes – do not burn. Gradually
whisk in milk & bring to boil, stirring
constantly. Cook & stir until thickened,
2-3 minutes. Stir in sausage, pepper,
paprika & chili powder – pour into
prepared dish & cool completely.
In large bowl mix Bisquick, sour cream
& melted butter until moistened. Turn
onto a lightly floured surface & knead
gently 8-10 times. Pat or roll dough into
a 3/4 inch thickness. Cut using a floured
2 1/2 inch biscuit cutter & place biscuits
over gravy. Refrigerate, covered, overnight.
=
Preheat oven 400 degrees F.
Remove dish from fridge while oven heats.
Bake, uncovered, until gravy is heated
through & biscuits are golden: 22 -25
minutes. Serves 10

Freezer Option:
After biscuits/gravy are read to place
in fridge, cover & freeze. To use: partially
thaw in fridge overnight. Remove 30
minutes before baking & bake as directed
above, increasing time as needed until
gravy is heated through & biscuits are
golden brown.

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

Stovetop Rice Pudding

1 1/2 C. cooked rice
1 1/2 C. whole milk
1/4 to 1/3 C. granulated sugar (to taste)
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1 large gg, beaten
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. grated nutmeg
1/3 C. golden raisins
1 T. unsalted butter
1/2 tsp. vanilla
–
In a pan combine rice, 1 C. milk,
sugar & salt – cook over medium
heat until thick & creamy, 10-15
minutes. Beat egg into remaining
1/2 C. milk & slowly add to rice
mixture, stirring constantly. Add
cinnamon, nutmeg & raisins; cook
over medium heat about 5 minutes
longer, stirring constantly. Remove
from heat & stir in butter & vanilla.
Spoon into dessert cups or ramekins.
May be served hot, at room temp.
or chilled.
Serves about 4

(recipe: deepsouthdish.com)

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

This week is shaping up nicely – just found out I
have the ENTIRE week off babysitting! One of my
friends asked me last week if she’d taken me out
for my birthday lunch (my birthday was in June).
I actually didn’t remember so we’re going out
tomorrow! YAY! It’s always nice to have a little
‘extra perk’ you didn’t expect.

Our weather is now in the 40’s & 50’s – typical
Fall here in Michigan. Evenings are dipping down
into the 30’s (with some 20’s – UGH!). Weds.
looks like it’s a 30% chance of rain/snow changing
to showers with a high of 42; oh well, it’s going to
be getting really cold pretty soon, so guess 42 isn’t
so bad, right?

Hope you are all in good health and enjoying the
last of the gorgeous fall leaves falling. Think I’ll
drag out my winter clothes today & pack away
‘Summer’ – it’s about time!

Hugs;

Pammie

 

and now . . . a new Month!

Along with the change of months came our first SNOW! Yes, it’s Michigan (land of the “You never KNOW when you’re going to get SNOW!). Woke up yesterday with a light dusting and temperatures in the 30’s – Brrrrrrrr! Babysat at 8:30 a.m. so had to scrape off car windshield for the first time this season – sigh. Today it’s on & off – gloomy then sunny, slight wind & 45 degrees F. Looking at the forecast for later on today – 60% chance of snowfall & rain – oh, goodie…

With all the babysitting yesterday (8:30 – 6 something p.m.) I got a lot of knitting done! Still working on my special needs girl’s scarf (about 3/4ths done), about the same amount done on a crocheted baby blanket and working on the new blanket with the new (super favorite) yarn.

Also wanted to add a Halloween photo from my oldest son & his family (minus older grandson):

 Nothing like characters from Toy Story 2!

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

Crockpot Pumpkin/Cinnamon Roll
Casserole

1 (21 oz) can pumpkin
2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon rolls
(12 oz, ea) Reserve icing
1 T. pumpkin pie spice
–
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick cooking spray. Cut cinnamon
rolls into fourths – place a single layer
on bottom of crockpot (reserve icing).
Spoon pumpkin over top then sprinkle
top with pumpkin pie spice. Continue
layering rolls then spice).
Cover & cook on Low 2 1/2 – 3 hours until
sides are golden brown & rolls are set. Drizzle
icing over top & serve warm.
Serves 8-10

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

Panera Autumn Squash Soup

2 T. olive oil
1 (2 lb) butternut squash, peeled/seeded &
cut into 1″ cubes
2 medium carrots, peeled/chopped
2 large shallots, chopped
kosher salt/ground black pepper, to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 T. brown sugar, packed
2 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. curry powder
4 C. vegetable broth
1 C. apple juice
1 C. water
1/2 C. pumpkin puree
2 T. cream cheese, softened
heavy cream – optional
–
Topping:
1 T. olive oil
1/2 C. toasted pumpkin seeds
1/2 tsp. chili powder
kosher salt
–
Soup:
In large pot over medium heat heat oil.
Add squash, carrots & shallots – season
with salt/pepper. Cook, stirring occasionaly,
until beginning to soften, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic, br. sugar, ginger & curry powder –
cook until vegetables are beginning to caramlize,
about 2 more minutes. Pour in broth, apple
juice & water – bring to boil then reduce to a
simmer – cook until vegetables are soft, about
10 minutes.
In small bowl whisk together pumpkin puree &
cream cheese until well mixed – pour into pot
& stir to combine. Using an immersion blender,
puree soup until smooth (Can use a regular
blender, in batches, being very careful of hot
soup). Season with salt/pepper – stir in desired
amount of heavy cream, if using.

Topping:
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
On a medium baking sheet toss pumpkin seeds
with oil & chili powder – season with salt. Bake,
shaking pan halfway through baking time, until
seeds are crunchy & golden, about 10 minutes.
Let cool completely.

Serve soup topped with toasted pumpkin seeds.
Serves 6

(recipe: delish.com)
———————————–

Chicken, Spinach & Artichoke Taquitos
(appetizer)

1 1/2 C. cooked/shredded chicken
1 (8 oz) cream cheese, room temp.
1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts
1 (10 oz) pkg. frozen chopped spinach,
thawed/drained/squeezed dry
1 tsp. chili powder
kosher salt/ground black pepper, to taste
18 small corn tortillas
2 1/2 C. shredded Monterey Jack cheese
–
olive oil – for brushing
salsa – for dipping
sour cream – for serving
=
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
Spray large baking sheet with nonstick
cooking spray. In large bowl combine
chicken, cream cheese, artichokees,
spinach & chili powder – season with
salt/pepper. Place tortillas on a micro-
wave safe plate & cover with a damp
paper towel. Microwave 30 seconds,
or until warm & pliable. Spread about
1/4 C. filling on one end of tortilla then
sprinkle a little cheese next to filling.
Roll up tightly & place, seam sides down,
on baking sheet – repeat with remaining
filling, cheese & tortillas.
Brush taquitos with oil & bake until
crispy & golden, flipping halfway
through cooking time 15-20 minutes.
Serve with salsa & sour cream for dipping.
Makes 18 taquitos

(recipe: delish.com)
——————————

Crispy Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

4 C. baby red potatoes, skins on,
cut into 1″ cubes
3 T. olive oil
1/2 tsp. garlic salt
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. paprika
4 T. freshly grated Parmesan cheese,
divided
–
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
Line a baking pan with parchment
paper. In large bowl combine chopped
potatoes with oil, garlic salt, sea salt,
pepper, paprika & 2 T. Parm. cheese –
mix well to ensure each potato is
evenly coated – transfer mixture to
prepared baking sheet, moving
potatoes around until they are one
even layer. Bake 15 minutes. Remove
from oven & mix. Bake another 25-
30 minutes, mixing every 10 minutes
until potatoes are soft in middles but
crispy on outsides. Remove from oven &
sprinkle last 2 T. Parm. cheese on before
serving. Makes about 8 servings.

(recipe: yummly.com)
———————————

Dump & Bake Chicken Cordon Bleu

1 (22 oz) jar Alfredo sauce (about 2 1/2 C.)
2 C. chicken broth
1 C. white wine (or substitute with an
additional 1 C. chicken broth)
1 (16 oz) pkg. uncooked rotini pasta
1 C. grated Swiss cheese, divided
1 C. cooked, diced chicken
1 C. cooked, diced ham
1/4 C. breadcrumbs combined with:
1 T. melted butter
optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
–
Preheat oven 425 degrees F.
Spray 9 X 13″ baking dish with nonstick
cooking spray. In large bowl whisk
Alfredo sauce, chicken broth & wine
until completely smooth. Stir in uncooked
pasta, 1/2 C. cheese, chicken & ham. Cover
tightly with foil & bake 40 minutes.
Remove dish from oven & stir – check pasta
to make sure it’s al dente (firm but just about
finished cooking). If it’s still too hard, cover
dish & return to oven until it’s al dente.
Once pasta is al dente & sauce has thickened,
sprinkle remaining 1/2 C. cheese on top &
sprinkle with buttered breadcrumbs. Bake,
uncovered, 5 more minutes until cheese is
melted & breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Garnish with parsley, if desired. Serves 6-8

(recipe: theseasonedmom.com)
——————————

Caramel Apple Dump Cake
Oven & Crockpot recipe

1 box yellow cake mix
2 (21 oz, ea) cans apple pie filling
1/2 C. caramel sauce or topping
2 sticks butter, melted, or sliced
–
OVEN:
Preheat oven 350 degrees F.
Spoon both cans of pie filling into
bottom of 9 X 13″ baking dish &
spread evenly. Pour caramel evenly
over top; sprinkle dry cake mix
evenly over top. Place thinly sliced
pats of butter evenly on top (or
drizzle melted butter on top).
Bake 50-60 minutes.
Serves 12
–
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
===
Crockpot:
Spray insides of crockpot with
nonstick cooking spray. Layer ingredients
the same as above. Cover, placing a layer
of paper towels between edges of crockpot
top & lid (not touching cake) to catch any
water droplets that may form on lid).
Cook on High 2 hours (or) Low 4 hours
Serves 12

(recipe: soulfullymade.com)
===================

Hope things are going well for you and you’re
in GOOD health! Now is the time to get out
the warmer clothes, cocoa mix and warm
slippers.

Enjoy your day!

Hugs;

Pammie