This Mama Loves to Cook

Crock Pot Chicken Taco Chili

2012-01-25T17:04:00.000-08:00

1 16-oz can black beans
1 16-oz can kidney beans
1 8-oz can tomato sauce
10 oz package frozen corn kernels
2 14.5 oz cans diced tomatoes w/chilies
1 packet taco seasoning
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
chili peppers, chopped (optional)

Combine beans, corn, tomato sauce, tomatoes, and
taco seasoning in a slow cooker. Place chicken on top
and cover. Cook on low for 10 hours or on high for 6 hours.
Half hour before serving, remove chicken and shred.
Return chicken to slow cooker and stir in. You can
also try it with sour cream and cheese.

Zucchini, Black Bean and Rice Skillet

2012-01-16T20:15:00.000-08:00

Picture and Recipe from Ready Set Eat

1 tablespoon Canola Oil
1-1/2 cups quartered lengthwise, sliced zucchini
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1 can (15 oz) Whole Black Beans, drained, rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) Hunt's Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes with Garlic

3/4 cup water

1 cup instant white rice
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend

Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini and
bell pepper; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add beans,
undrained tomatoes and water. Increase heat and bring to a boil.
Add rice; stir well. Cover; removefrom heat and let stand
7 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Sprinkle with cheese.

No Bake Energy Bites

2012-01-09T12:44:00.000-08:00

Recipe from Smashed Peas and Carrots

1 cup oatmeal

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/3 cup honey

1 cup coconut flakes

1/2 cup ground flax seed

1/2 cup milk chocolate chips

1 tsp vanilla

Mix everything above in a medium bowl until thoroughly

incorporated. Let chill in the refrigerator for half an hour.

Once chilled, roll into balls and enjoy! Store in an airtight

container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.

Homemade Egg (Mc)Muffins

2011-11-17T12:13:00.001-08:00

These are so yummy and easy to make. Recipe from Betty Crocker Wannabe

One whole wheat English muffin, toasted
One slice of cheese
One egg
Spray a coffee mug with cooking spray. Crack the egg in the mug
and scramble with a fork. Cover with a wet paper towel and
microwave for about 50 seconds. Place cheese slice on one side
of of English muffin, top with egg and other muffin half.

Tortellini Vegetable Soup

2011-11-17T12:07:00.001-08:00

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

1 small zucchini, diced

1 medium carrot, peeled and diced

5 1/2 cups chicken stock

1 teaspoon dried basil (more if fresh)

1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes

1/2 teaspoon salt

8 to 9 ounces fresh or frozen tortellini(cheese or meat filled)

Black pepper, to taste

Heat the olive oil in a medium soup pot or large saucepan. Add onion,

zucchini, and carrot. Saute over moderate heat for 5 minutes,

stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent.Add the stock,
basil,tomatoes, and salt to the pot. Increase the heat and bring the
mixture to a low boil. Add the tortellini and bring the soup back
to a low boil. Cook it for 2 minutes, then reduce the heat and let
it simmer for 5 to 6 minutes longer. Makes about 5 servings

Green Salsa

2011-11-06T09:30:00.000-08:00

1 (32 oz) can whole tomatoes

1/2 Tbsp salt

1 Tbsp garlic powder

1 Tbsp crushed red pepper

1/2 Tbsp vegetable oil

1 Jalapeno to taste

3-4 bunches cilantro

Juice of 1 lime

Blend everything together adding cilantro bunch by bunch last.

Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

2011-10-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

I know what your are thinking another pumpkin recipe.

But I just love this time of the year and I love trying

out new pumpkin recipes. I promise I will try to post

some other recipes without pumpkin in them soon. :)

Recipe from Red Head Recipes

1/2 banana (peeled, frozen, diced)
1/3 cup pumpkin puree (Libby’s)
1/3 cup vanilla yogurt
3/4-1cup milk
Few shakes of pumpkin spice (Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice)
Few shakes of cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of cloves
1tsp vanilla
4-5 ice cubes

Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth and sprinkle with
a little more cinnamon.

Baked pumpkin doughnut holes

2011-10-26T09:59:00.001-07:00

Recipe from The Craving Chronicles

For Donuts1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoons nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon allspice
1/8 teaspoons ground cloves
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup canned plain pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2 cup low-fat milk

For Coating1/2 stick of unsalted butter, melted
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cinnamon

Preheat oven 350°F. Spray each cup in a 24-cup mini muffin tin with baking
spray.In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt and spices
(through cloves). In a separate, large bowl whisk together oil, brown sugar,
egg, vanilla, pumpkin and milk until smooth. Add dry ingredients to wet
ingredients and mix until just combined –do not over mix!
Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. (Using a 2-tablespoon scoop will
ensure uniform size.) Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick
comes out clean. While the muffins bake, melt butter in one bowl and combine
granulated sugar and cinnamon in another bowl. Remove muffins from oven
and cool for 2 minutes, or until just cool enough to handle. Dip each muffin
in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar to coat.

Healthy Halloween Treat

2011-10-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

Idea and picture from Instructables

A great way to sneak a healthy snack into your Halloween festivities. Just take a sharpie to an orange, clementine, tangerine, or mandarin and create your Jack o lantern face. I know my boys would love finding one of these in their lunch box's. :)

Pumpkin Pie oatmeal

2011-10-14T21:27:00.000-07:00

1 c. quick oats

1/2 c. milk

2/3 c. water

pinch of salt

2 to 3 tablespoons maple syrup

1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1/2 c. canned pumpkin

Add all ingredients to a small pan. Heat on
high for 1 to 2 minutes or until oats start to boil.
Add any additional ingredients to adjust sweetness
(maple syrup or a little sugar). Top with a little
whip cream and dash of cinnamon.

Chocolate chip pumpkin bread

2011-10-12T19:30:00.000-07:00

1 1/2 c. sugar
1 c. pumpkin
1/2 c. applesauce
2/3 c. water
2 eggs
1 1/2 c. flour
1/2 tablespoon cinnamon
1/2 tablespoon nutmeg
2 teaspoon baking soda
dash of salt
1/2 c. chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine sugar, pumpkin, applesauce, water, and eggs.
Beat until smooth. Blend in flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and
salt. Fold in chocolate chips. Fill loaf pan.
Bake for 45 min. to 1 hour, or until an inserted knife comes out clean.
Cool on wire racks before removing from pan.

Baked Mozzearella Bites

2011-10-12T10:10:00.000-07:00

1/3 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
3 sticks mozzarella string cheese
1 egg beaten
Marinara sauce

Heat oven to 425. Cut mozzarella sticks into 1 inch pieces.
Working with one piece at a time, dip cheese in egg and then
dip in panko breadcrumbs. Place cheese on a baking sheet coated
with cooking spray. Bake at 425 for 3 minutes or until cheese is
softened and thoroughly heated. Pour marina sauce into a
microwave safe bowl. Microwave for about 1 minuted until
heated. Serve with mozzarella pieces.

Monster hot chocolate

2011-10-05T10:24:00.000-07:00

Idea and picture from Taste of Home

How clever and easy is this! Just add two large marshmallows with junior

mints in the middle of the marshmallows to your favorite cup of hot chocolate.

My boys will get a kick out of this!

Caramel apple muffins

2011-09-30T18:20:00.000-07:00

Check out these cute caramel apple muffins from Family Fun.

Click here for the recipe.

Pumpkin Sandwich cookies

2011-09-29T11:57:00.000-07:00

Recipe and picture from Land O Lakes

Cookie:

2 cups Flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup canned pumpkin

1/4 cup milk

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla

Filling:

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons butter, softened

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla

4 cups powdered sugar

Heat oven to 350°F. Combine flour, baking soda,

pumpkin pie spice, baking powder and salt in medium bowl.

Set aside. Combine brown sugar and 1/2 cup butter in large

bowl; beat at medium speed until creamy. Add pumpkin,
milk, egg and vanilla; beat until well mixed. Reduce speed
to low; add flour mixture. Beat until well mixed. Drop
batter by level measuring tablespoonfuls onto ungreased
cookie sheets. Bake for 9 to 10 minutes or until set
and lightly browned around edges. Cool 2 minutes on
cookie sheets; remove to cooling rack. Cool completely.

Combine all filling ingredients except powdered sugar in
large bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often,
until smooth. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar,
beating well after each addition until creamy.

Spread 2 teaspoons filling onto bottom-side of 1 cookie.

Top with another cookie, bottom-side down. Repeat with
remaining cookies and filling. Sprinkle filled cookies

with powdered sugar

Coconut Chocolate Banana Bread

2011-09-23T16:01:00.000-07:00

1/2 c. butter or margarine
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 c. flour
2 ripe bananas (chopped and mashed)
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 cup large flaked coconut

Cream together butter and sugar. Add eggs one at a time.
Add baking soda and salt. Mix well. Stir in mashed
bananas. Add flour and mix. Add chocolate chips
and coconut. Mix well. Pour into greased loaf pan.
Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes.

Sweet Acorns

2011-09-09T10:27:00.000-07:00

I am glad it is finally starting to feel like fall around

here. I love the fall time. Check out

these cute acorn donuts from Gracious Rain.

These would be a fun treat to make with your kids.

I know my kids would love these!

Click here for directions on how to make them.

Stuffed French toast

2011-09-06T14:23:00.000-07:00

Recipe and picture from Oikos Yogurt

Check out their site for other yummy recipes

using Greek yogurt.

2 1/2 cups Dannon Oikos Greek Vanilla Yogurt, divided
4 large eggs
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
Zest of one orange optional
12 thick slices country style or potato bread
1/4 cup seedless berry jam optional

In a bowl mix together 2 cups yogurt, eggs, cinnamon, and orange zest.
Pour yogurt mixture into 9” x 12” baking dish.

Place 4 slices of bread on clean work surface. Spread the

2 Tbsp. yogurt and 1 Tbsp. berry jam over each of the bread

slices, top each with another piece of bread, and add to yogurt

mixture in the baking dish. Turn to coat both sides and cover with

plastic wrap and allow casserole to soak, refrigerated, at least 15 minutes.

In a non stick skillet heat a touch of oil. Griddle the yogurt soaked

sandwiches for 4-5 minutes per side (or until golden brown and

heated through. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve with syrup.

Slurpee's

2011-08-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

I couldn't wait to make my own Slurpee's

when I saw a post on how to make your own on

My World Made by Hand blog.

My family loves these and they are really simple

to make. Here's how you make them:

1 packet of Kool-Aid
2 cups of club soda
1/2 cup sugar
2 1/2 cups crushed ice

Blend Kool-Aid, sugar, and 1 cup of the club soda on high

until the sugar is dissolved. Add remaining cup of club soda

and blend away until icy. Enjoy!

French Toast Bites

2011-08-17T20:14:00.000-07:00

Recipe from Multiply Delicious

3 Tablespoons Sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 large eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of Salt
1 loaf french bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter

In a large bowl, stir together the sugar and cinnamon.
Set aside.

In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs,
buttermilk, milk, vanilla, and salt until blended.
Place the bread cubes in the egg mixture and using
a large spoon, toss gently until the cubes are
evenly coated and all the egg mixture has been absorbed.

In a large frying pan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon
of the butter. Add half the coated bread cubes and cook,
turning often, until golden brown on all sides, about
5 minutes. Transfer the cubes to the bowl holding the
cinnamon sugar and toss to coat. Repeat with the
remaining bread cubes and 1 tablespoon butter.

Divide the french toast bites into individual
servings and sprinkle with remaining cinnamon-sugar.
Serve with maple syrup.

Lunch notes

2011-08-14T20:36:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe school will be starting next
week. This summer has flown by for me.
Here are some cute lunch notes you
could add to your kiddos lunches.

Lunch Notes from Fresh Picked Whimsy

Lunch Love Notes From Tip Junkie

Lunch Box Love Notes from Eighteen25

Pizzadillas

2011-08-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

4 flour tortillas
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 ounce turkey pepperoni
Marinara sauce for dipping

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Brush one side of each tortilla with
a little bit of melted butter. Place tortillas buttered-side down on
a baking sheet. Sprinkle each tortilla with cheese and pepperoni.
Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and carefully fold each
tortilla in half. Bake an additional 10 minutes or until browned
and crisp, turning after 5 minutes. Serve with marinara sauce.

Orange Creamsicle Fruit Dip

2011-08-07T19:09:00.000-07:00

Recipe from The Girl Who Ate Everything

This is such a refreshing and yummy fruit dip. Perfect for summer!

1(8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1(3.4 ounce) small package instant vanilla pudding mix
1(6 ounce) container of frozen (concentrated)orange juice,slightly thawed
Fruit for dipping such as strawberries, apples, grapes, pineapple

Mix the whipped topping, vanilla pudding mix, and orange
juice together until well combined. If needed add a
little water to make it to the desired consistency.
Prepare the fruit by washing and cutting it.
Refrigerate dip until ready to serve.

Caramel Crunch Apple Dip

2011-07-31T08:33:00.001-07:00

Recipe from Yummy Fun

8oz Cream Cheese
1 Cup Brown Sugar
1/3+ Cup Chocolate Chips (or to taste)
1 Cup Toffee Chips (or to taste)

On the stove top melt cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth. Remove

from heat and add chocolate chips and toffee chips to taste. Serve with sliced
apples.

Root beer float Popsicles

2011-07-10T19:03:00.000-07:00

Recipe from Smile Monsters

1 1/2 cups of Root beer
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk

Mix root beer and sweetened condensed milk
together with a whisk. If it gets to foamy set
it in the fridge for a bit to settle down.
Pour into Popsicle molds. Freeze for a
couple of hours.

Chocolate Zucchini Cake‏

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

Cream together in order:
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. oil
1 3/4 c. sugar
2 c. grated zucchini
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla

Measure dry ingredients, add to batter, alternating with
buttermilk until mixed.

2 1/2 c. flour
4 T. Cocoa
1/2 tsp. each salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon
1/2 c. buttermilk

Pour into a 9X13 cake pan and sprinkle the following
mixture on top. 3/4 c. chocolate chips, 3/4 c. coarsely
chopped nuts and 3/4 c. brown sugar (mix together).
Bake at 350 degrees for 40-50 minutes.

Frosty Fireworks

2011-07-04T09:37:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone!!
Hope everyone has a fun and safe Holiday.
Here is a fun 4th of July drink.

Frosty Fireworks (Flavored Ice)
FAMILY FUN

Red, White, and Blueberry Skewers

2011-07-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

Idea from Makes and Takes

Supplies for Kabobs:
skewers
strawberries
mini marshmallows
blueberries

A fun snack for the 4th of July. Also a great snack your kids
can help you with!

4th of July pancakes

2011-06-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

When I saw this cute idea from The Idea Room
I couldn't wait to make them for my family.
I love making festive foods for different holidays.
All you need to do is mix up your favorite pancake mix.
Put half of the batter in another bowl and add
some red food coloring. Cook and serve with blueberries.
You could even serve with blueberry syrup.
Easy and cute!!

Chicken Lime Tacos

2011-06-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

Recipe from Favorite Family Recipes

1 1/2 Lbs. chicken, cubed (I shredded my chicken)
1/4 c. red wine vinegar
juice of 1 lime
2 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. black pepper
4-5 green onions, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 Tbsp fresh cilantro (or to taste)
Flour tortillas

Optional toppings:
Pico de gallo
cheese
onions
tomatoes
jalapeno
guacamole
cilantro
sour cream

Cook chicken in a medium skillet in a little oil until no longer pink.

You can cube or shred your chicken. Combine vinegar, lime juice,

sugar, salt, pepper, green onion, garlic and cilantro. Add to chicken.

Simmer for an extra 5-10 minutes. Add chicken to tortillas and

top with lettuce, tomato, cheese, avocado, cilantro, salsa,

sour cream, or any other taco topping you like!

Layered Fruit Smoothie

2011-06-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

Recipe and picture from My Recipes

I love to make smoothies, especially in the summer.
This looks so yummy and refreshing. Can't wait to
make it for my family.

1 mango (peeled, pitted, and coarsely chopped)
1 1/4 cups plain low-fat yogurt
4 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated lime zest
1 banana (peeled, and chopped)
10 medium strawberries (washed, and hulled)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest

In a blender, mix mango; 3/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt;
2 tablespoons honey; the fresh lime juice; 2 ice cubes;
and the freshly grated lime zest until smooth. Divide
mango-lime smoothie between 2 straight-sided glasses and
set aside.

Rinse blender, then mix the banana; the strawberries;
1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt; 2 tablespoons honey;
the fresh lemon juice; 2 ice cubes; and the freshly
grated lemon zest until smooth. Layer banana-strawberry
smoothie onto mango smoothie, gently spooning mixture
around inside edge of each glass to create a clean horizontal line.

Bloomin' Onion Bread

2011-06-12T20:53:00.000-07:00

Recipe from The Girl who ate Everything

1 unsliced loaf sourdough bread
12-16 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, thinly sliced
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup finely diced green onion
2 teaspoons poppy seeds

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Cut the bread lengthwise and width wise without cutting
through the bottom crust. This can be a little tricky
but the bread is very forgiving. Place on a foil-lined baking
sheet. Insert cheese slices between cuts. Combine butter, onion,
and poppy seeds. Drizzle over bread. Wrap in foil; place on a
baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.
Unwrap the bread and bake 10 more minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Spanish Skillet Supper

2011-06-06T18:42:00.000-07:00

1 lb. ground beef
1-2/3 cup water
1 can (8-3/4 oz.) whole corn undrained
1 package 5.6 oz Spanish rice
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Brown ground beef in a skillet, drain. Add water
bring to a boil. Stir in corn and rice; bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered stirring occasionally,
10 minutes or until rice is tender. Stir in 1/2 cup cheese
until melted; top with remaining cheese.

Santa Fe Chicken Salad Wrap

2011-06-06T15:48:00.000-07:00

Picture and Recipe from Good Life Eats
This would make a great summer meal.

2/3 cup sour cream
3 tablespoons lime juice
1/2 – 3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1 - 2 tablespoon minced cilantro
2 – 3 green onions, sliced thin
1 stalk celery, diced
2 cups shredded chicken
2/3 cup black beans
1/3 cup diced red bell pepper
1/3 cup corn kernels

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, lime juice,
salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and cilantro. Whisk to
combine. Add the chicken, green onion, and celery to
the sour cream mixture. Stir until the chicken is well coated.
Fold in the black beans, bell pepper, and corn. C
over and chill until serving.

To Prepare the Wraps:
Layer chicken salad, salad greens or baby spinach and
avocado slices inside burrito sized tortillas. Fold up
the ends and roll the wrap to seal it. Slice in half.
Serve with salsa on the side, if desired.

S'More Cookie Pizza

2011-06-06T15:36:00.000-07:00

Recipe and picture from Better Recipes

1 (18-ounce) roll refrigerated sugar-cookie dough
2 cups (12-ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (14-ounce) can Sweetened Condensed Milk (NOT evaporated milk)
2 cups M & M's
2 cups miniature marshmallows

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Press cookie dough into
2 ungreased 12-inch pizza pans. Bake 10 minutes or
until golden. Remove from oven. In medium-sized saucepan,
melt chips with condensed milk. Spread over crusts.
Sprinkle with milk chocolate candies and marshmallows.
Bake 4 minutes or until marshmallows are lightly toasted.
Cool. Cut in wedges

Cupcake Kabobs

2011-05-30T11:01:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone is have a fun Memorial day.

Check out these cute Red, White, and Blue

cupcake Kabobs from The Cupcake Activist.

Click here on how to make them.

Baked Zucchini

2011-05-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

4-5 small zucchini spears, cut on an angle
2 eggs
1-2 Tbsp. milk
1 c. Italian-style bread crumbs or finely blended croutons
1/2 c. Parmesan cheese
Salt and Pepper to taste

Line a baking sheet with cooking spray. Combine eggs and milk
in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan
cheese, and salt and pepper. Dip each zucchini piece into the egg
mixture, then dip into bread crumbs until evenly coated in crumbs.
Place zucchini on baking sheet, and then bake in the oven at
425 degrees for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
For an added crisp, turn the oven to broil and cook for about
30-45 seconds longer or until golden (watch them closely to
prevent burning). Remove from oven and serve with ranch dressing
or marinara sauce for dipping.
Recipe from Favorite Family Recipes

Carrot Oven Fries

2011-05-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

1 lb. carrots (about 5 or 6 large,peeled and cut into 4"x1" sticks.)

1 tsp. Olive oil

1 tsp. cornstarch

1 packet Ranch dressing & seasoning mix

Pam vegetable cooking spray

Preheat oven to 400* and in a large bowl,combine carrots with oil, cornstarch and the ranch dressing packet. Toss all until well coated. Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray. Now arrange coated carrots in a single layer on pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crispy.

Recipe and picture via The Harwards

Cherry Cheese Danish

2011-04-20T20:28:00.000-07:00

2 (8 ounce) tubes refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup PLUS 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, divided use
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 (21 ounce) can Cherry Pie Filling
1 tablespoon butter, melted
½ cup sliced almonds

Preheat oven to 350°F. Unroll 1 package of crescent rolls
and fit into bottom of an ungreased 9 by 13 inch baking dish.
In a bowl, combine cream cheese, 1 cup of the sugar and vanilla.
Spread mixture over dough in baking dish. Spread cherry pie
filling over cream cheese mixture. Unroll remaining crescent
rolls and lay dough over pie filling. Mix 1 tablespoon sugar,
½ cup almonds and 1 tablespoon butter. Sprinkle mixture
over top of dough. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until golden brown.

Beef and Broccoli noodle bowl

2011-04-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

Recipe from Little Momma and Co.

1 pkg. Fettuccine noodles
Stir Fry Beef

Broccoli
2 Tablespoons Hoisin sauce
1/2 Cup Italian dressing
chopped carrots

Chop your veggies into bite size pieces. Meanwhile, heat
enough water in a large pot to cook your fettuccine. In a
large frying pan stir fry your beef until browned, and
then remove from heat. When your water comes up
to a rapid boil, add your fettuccine. Cook half way, and then
add the veggies. Boil until pasta is al dente' and veggies are
crisp tender. Drain pasta and veggies in a colander and add
them to the beef. Return to heat. Add Hoisin sauce and
Italian dressing. Stir well, coating the noodles and veggies.

Pasta with Bacon and Mushrooms

2011-04-18T07:24:00.000-07:00

Recipe and photo from The Pioneer Woman

2 Tablespoons Olive Oil

3 slices Thin Bacon, Cut Into 1/2-inch Pieces

3 cloves Garlic, Minced

1 package (10 Ounce) White Button Mushrooms, Sliced Thin

1 cup Low Sodium Chicken Broth (OR Dry White Wine) 1 cup Half-and-half ¼ cups Heavy Whipping Cream

3 whole Green Onions, White And Light Green Parts Sliced

¼ cups Flat-leaf Parsley, Minced

½ cups Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese

Salt To Taste

Freshly Ground Black Pepper, To Taste

1 pound Thin Spaghetti Or Angel Hair Pasta

Extra Parmesan, For Sprinkling

Preparation Instructions Cook pasta according to package directions.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add bacon pieces and cook until light brown but not crisp. Remove bacon from pan and set aside. Do not clean pan. Add mushrooms and garlic to pan. Toss/stir around and cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes; increase heat to high if needed to help mushrooms begin to turn golden brown. Pour in chicken broth. Stir, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any bits. Cook over medium-high heat for several minutes, or until the liquid is reduced by half. Reduce heat and pour in half and half and cream. Stir and allow to bubble and thicken for a couple of minutes. Add sliced green onions and parsley, then cook for one more minute. Finally, add Parmesan and stir, allowing cheese to melt and incorporate into the sauce. Turn off heat. Add cooked pasta to a large bowl. Add half the sauce from the pan. Toss with tongs.

***Add 1/2 cup hot pasta water at this point if the pasta mixture is too thick and gunky. Toss and add more water until it reaches the consistency you need.***

Serve pasta in individual bowls, topping each helping with the rest of the sauce. Sprinkle with extra parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy!

Peep S'mores

2011-04-13T19:36:00.000-07:00

Check out these fun Peep S'mores from Serious Eats.

Click here to find out how to make these fun colorful treats. Picture from Serious Eats

Cooking with Children

2011-04-08T19:07:00.000-07:00

I received this article from Emily Patterson about cooking with children a couple of days ago. She had asked me to read it. I thought it was a great article and thought I would share it with you. I really enjoy cooking with my boys. Not only are they learning new things, but I enjoy spending time with them in the kitchen. One thing I do with my boys is let them pick one night each week to cook with me. They get to choose what we will have for dinner and help me in the kitchen. They love it and I love that they are enjoying cooking. Hope you get some great ideas from this article to help you cook with your children. I appreciate any feedback regarding the things you like to do, or make in the kitchen with your children.

Cooking with Children: A Recipe for Kitchen Safety & Fun

Bubbling pots, sizzling skillets and delicious smells can make the kitchen a fascinating – yet dangerous – place for young children. However, the potential hazards don’t have to keep children out of the kitchen. Dr. Mary Zurn, vice president of education for Primrose Child Care Facilities, says kitchen time can be a great way for families to regain some lost, but valuable, family time. “The kitchen is often the most popular place in the house for families to gather. It’s a place for learning and sharing, where the family can enjoy quality time. Children can also develop a sense of responsibility by participating in daily tasks,” said Dr. Zurn. Parents can keep the kitchen safe and fun for children by following this simple recipe:

1. Engage your child meaningfully. Think about what tasks your child can do independently. Completing simple jobs like mixing batter, rolling dough and measuring water can boost a child’s sense of pride and accomplishment. Tearing lettuce, adding sprinkles to sweets and shaking Parmesan onto pasta are other safe, satisfying tasks children can easily accomplish. Even very young children can get involved – give them some pots, pans and wooden spoons so they can pretend to cook with you or use them for music-making. The tuneful accompaniment will let you know they’re safely engaged and give them a way to feel like they’re helping too.

2. Set some ground rules. Children need supervision when they’re in the kitchen, so establish a list of basic safety rules and make sure children are always within sight. Teach children to wash their hands before and after handling food to avoid spreading germs. Discuss on a regular basis what’s safe to touch and what’s not. Make sure the handles of pots and pans are turned inward on the stove top so you and older children don’t accidentally bump them and spill hot liquids or food.

3. Build up skills step-by-step. Children can develop many essential skills in the kitchen, such as following recipes or counting slices of bread. For more advanced skills, start slowly and have your child master easy tasks before attempting harder ones. Teach older children to use a knife by starting them off with cutting soft items like cheese and cooked noodles with a dull spreader. As your child’s coordination develops, they can move on to slicing or sawing vegetables and fruit with a plastic knife.

4. Keep it fun. Cooking can be messy even without children, so don’t stress over the “oops” moments. If the cookie batter ends up on the floor instead of the baking sheet, offer some guidance and let your child try again. You can make cleaning it up fun too!

When your meal is complete, be sure to compliment your sous chef on a job well done. Offer them the first taste of whatever you cooked together and ask them what you should make next time. Bon appétit!

Submitted on behalf of Primrose Schools: Child Care building the right foundation by Emily Patterson (@epatt1062)

Pot o’ Gold Chex Mix

2011-03-14T20:38:00.000-07:00

Recipe and picture from Quick Dish

4 cups Lucky Charms cereal
2 cups Corn Chex cereal
1 1/2 cups broken mini-pretzel twists (about 65 twists)
1 cup dry-roasted peanuts
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
2 Tbsp corn syrup
1/8 tsp baking soda
1/4 cup green mini candy-coated milk chocolate candies

In a large microwavable bowl, place cereals, pretzels
and peanuts; set aside. In 2-cup microwavable measuring
cup, microwave brown sugar, butter and corn syrup
uncovered on High about 2 minutes, stirring after 1 minute,
until melted and smooth. Stir in baking soda until dissolved.
Pour over cereal mixture, stirring until evenly coated.
Microwave uncovered on High 1 to 2 minutes, stirring and
scraping bowl every 30 seconds, just until cereal begins to brown.
Cool 5 minutes; stir in candies. Spread on waxed paper to cool;
break into bite-size pieces. Place in gold foil baking cups if desired.
Store in airtight container.

Lasagna Roll ups

2011-03-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

1 (16 ounce) package uncooked lasagna noodles
1 lb. Italian sausage or ground beef
1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 (8 oz) cream cheese
1/4 c. sour cream
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach
thawed, drained and squeezed dry
2 c. Mozzarella cheese
1 (28 ounce) jar pasta sauce
1/4 c. grated Parmesan

Brown meat and drain. Add pasta sauce.

Cook lasagna noodles according to the package directions.
Meanwhile combine cream cheese, sour cream, spinach,
Parmesan cheese, and 1 c. mozzarella cheese.
When noodles are done lay them out on parchment paper
and pat dry with a towel.
Scoop out approximately 1/3 c. spinach-cheese mixture and
spread onto noodles covering completely.

Roll up noodle, place seam side down in a pan which
you have spread a little sauce on bottom of.
Continue with rest of noodles. Pour sauce over the
roll-ups. Top with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees.

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-03-07T14:50:00.000-08:00

Recipe and picture from Betty Crocker

These would be a perfect treat for St. Patrick's Day!

1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon mint extract
6 to 8 drops green food color
1 egg
1 cup creme de menthe baking chips
1 cup semisweet chocolate chunks

Heat oven to 350°F. In large bowl, stir cookie mix, butter, extract,

food color and egg until soft dough forms. Stir in creme de menthe
baking chips and chocolate chunks. Using small cookie scoop or
teaspoon, drop dough 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Cool 3 minutes; remove from
cookie sheet to wire rack. Serve warm or cool completely.

Creamy Rice Pudding

2011-03-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

I found this recipe on allrecipes.com, and it tastes just like what I remember having growing up. We also always added cinnamon and nutmeg to ours. Yum!

Ingredients

3/4 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups milk divided
1/3 cup white sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg beaten
2/3 cup golden raisins
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

In a medium saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups water to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes.

In another saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups cooked rice, 1 1/2 cups milk, sugar and salt. Cook over medium heat until thick and creamy, 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in remaining 1/2 cup milk, beaten egg and raisins. Cook 2 minutes more, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, and stir in butter and vanilla. Serve warm.

Strawberry Danish Parfaits

2011-03-03T11:21:00.000-08:00

3 cups sliced strawberries
1 (4 3/4 ounce) package
Strawberry Danish
1 (6oz.) package instant vanilla pudding
2 cups milk
1/2 pint whip cream

Sprinkle a little sugar over strawberries and let stand for about
15 minutes. Make Danish Dessert according to package directions
for pudding. Cool completely. Make vanilla instant pudding
according to package, using only 2 cups milk. Let set 30 min.
Fold in whip cream and vanilla pudding. Layer ingredients in
parfait glasses, ending with strawberries.

Grilled Chicken and Veggie Tortellini

2011-03-03T11:11:00.000-08:00

2 zucchini, cut in half lengthwise
2 chicken breasts
1 Tbsp. Italian herb seasoning
1 (19 oz.) package cheese filled tortellini
1 (7oz.) container reduced fat pesto
2 tomatoes, chopped
Garnish with parmesan cheese

Preheat grill. Sprinkle chicken and zucchini with
Italian seasoning. Grill zucchini and chicken. Grill
zucchini 6 to 8 minutes on each side or until tender.
Grill chicken until no longer pink. Meanwhile prepare
tortellini according to package. Chop chicken and zucchini.
Toss tortellini with pesto and add chicken, zucchini, and
tomatoes.

Crescent pizza snacks

2011-02-22T20:02:00.000-08:00

8 oz. tube refrigerated crescent rolls
14 oz. jar pizza sauce/or tomato sauce
3/4 c. pepperoni
1 c. shredded mozzarella cheese

Unroll crescent rolls into individual triangles on
an ungreased baking sheet. Spread a layer of pizza
sauce over dough and top with pepperoni and cheese.
Roll into crescent shape. Bake at 375 degrees for
18-20 minutes or until rolls are golden and cheese
is bubbling. Makes 8 rolls.
Recipe from Lil' Luna

Valentine Chex Mix

2011-02-08T10:37:00.000-08:00

Valentine Chex mix from Betty Crocker

Ingredients
9 cups Rice Chex cereal
1 cup white vanilla baking chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter or margarine
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup red, white and pink candy-coated chocolate candies
1/4 cup red or pink sprinkles

Directions:
1.In large bowl, place cereal. In small microwavable bowl,
microwave baking chips, peanut butter and butter uncovered
on High 1 minute to 1 minute 30 seconds, stirring every
30 seconds,until melted and smooth. Pour peanut butter
mixture over cereal,stirring until evenly coated.
2.Place 1/2 of the cereal mixture in 1-gallon food-storage
plastic bag. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until
well coated. Spread on waxed paper or foil to cool,
about 15 minutes.
3.Meanwhile, stir candies and sprinkles into remaining
cereal mixture.Spread on waxed paper or foil to cool,
about 15 minutes.
4.In serving bowl, mix both cereal mixtures. Store
in airtight container.
Picture and recipe from Betty Crocker

Valentine Jelly pop

2011-02-08T10:32:00.001-08:00

Check out these cute Valentine pops

from Tablespoon. Click here to get the recipe.

Valory's Veggie Ranch Dip

2011-02-06T14:13:00.000-08:00

Saw this on my friend, Natalie's, blog today(100 Percent Cottam). Sounds like an awesome veggie dip for the Super Bowl!

2 cups mayo
2 cups sour cream
2 cups grated cheddar cheese (it's so much better if you grate your own!)
2 bunches green onions, sliced (whites only)
1 Ranch "Dips" packet

Mix together & chill for a couple hours. Serve with veggies, crackers, pita chips, etc. Note from Natalie: This makes a GIANT batch!

Groundhog day ideas

2011-02-02T08:01:00.000-08:00

Need some cute ideas for Groundhog day check out

Gourmet Mom on the go. I made some blueberry

muffins for my kids this morning and stuck a little

Groundhog in them. My boys loved it! To get some

Groundhogs to stick in your food today (sandwiches, fruit,

and rolls) click here.

Love potion

2011-01-30T20:06:00.000-08:00

1/2 gal. raspberry sherbet
2 lt. bottle Raspberry Ginger Ale
33 oz. can pineapple juice
Frozen raspberries or blueberries (optional)

Combine first 3 ingredients stirring to break up
sherbet. Garnish with frozen raspberries or
blueberries.

Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Cookie

2011-01-26T09:09:00.000-08:00

1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup butter or margarine- softened
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups flour
2 cups uncooked old fashioned rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350°. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugars,
butter, shortening, eggs and vanilla. Mix together. Add flour,
oatmeal, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Mix until a soft
dough forms. Stir in chips. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place
about two inches apart onto greased cookie sheets. Bake for
10-12 minutes.

snow cream (snow ice cream)

2011-01-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

The Dallas area usually does not get snow. Last year I heard
about snow cream, but the snow had already melted. I decided
if it was going to snow this year I was going to make some
for my boys. Well, today it snowed, so we made some snow cream this
afternoon. My boys loved it!!

8 cups of clean snow
1 cup sugar
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons vanilla

Bundle up and gather some clean snow in a bowl. Add sugar, milk, and
vanilla. Mix together and enjoy. Add your favorite toppings.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

2010-12-31T10:21:00.000-08:00

Check out this yummy Buffalo Chicken dip from

Tidy Mom. This would be a yummy dip

for my New Year's Eve party. I just might

have to make it.

Recipe and picture from Tidy Mom

3-4 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
8oz. Ranch dressing
2 -8 oz Cream Cheese, Softened
8 oz. Hot Sauce, or Wing Sauce
2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (save some to sprinkle on top)

Cook and shred chicken (I throw my chicken breast on a pan

and bake in the oven for about 30-40 mins at 350)
Mix ranch dressing, cream cheese ,sauce and 1 cup of

cheddar cheese until well blended.
Add chicken and mix by hand. Place in 8×8 square pan.
Sprinkle remaining cup of cheddar cheese on top. Bake at 350

for 30 mins.

Serve with tortilla chips!

What are you serving for New Year's Eve?

Holiday Wassail

2010-12-23T20:04:00.000-08:00

1 qt. apple cider
1/2 c. orange juice
1 tsp. allspice
2 tbsp. lemon juice
1/2 tsp. ground cloves
1/2 c. sugar
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
2 tart med. apples thinly sliced
2 cinnamon sticks

In 3 qt. casserole dish place cider, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, orange juice, lemon juice, sugar, and apples.

Microwave on high 15 to 18 minutes. Strain and serve. Makes 8-9 (1/2 c.) servings.

Recipe from Rosie Galbraith

BREAKFAST OVERNIGHT

2010-12-23T12:39:00.000-08:00

1 lb. Jimmy dean hot sausage
4 slices of bread, cut into 1/2" cubes
6 to 8 eggs
2 cups milk
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. dry mustard

Crumble sausage in a medium skillet, cook over medium heat
until brown, stirring occasionally. Spread bread cubes in a
buttered 12 X 8 X 2" baking dish top with sausage and cheese.
Combine eggs, milk, seasonings, beat well and pour over cheese,
cover and refrigerate overnight, Bake at 350 degrees for
30-40 minutes or until set.

This is one of our favorite breakfast casseroles we have
on Christmas morning.

Chocolate Chip Caramel Toffee Cheescake Bars

2010-12-15T15:15:00.000-08:00

This recipe mixes the two things I love best, chocolate chip cookies and cheesecake- Yum!

2 pkgs. Betty Crocker chocolate chip cookie mix (1lb 1.5 oz bags)

1 cup butter

2 pkgs. softened cream cheese (8oz. each)

1/2 cup of sugar

2 Tbs. flour

1/2 cup of caramel ice cream topping

1 tsp. vanilla

1 egg

Heath toffee pieces

Mix cookie mix and butter by cutting in the butter with a pastry blender or fork until butter is completely incorporated. Grease bottom of 9x13 pan. Press 1/2 of cookie in bottom of pan and bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes.

Mix remaining ingredients until smooth and layer over cooked cookies and crumble the remaining cookie mix on top. Bake for 35 minutes. Let cool for 30 minutes and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

PEPPERMINT BARK

2010-12-14T11:22:00.000-08:00

1 package(16 oz.) vanilla, flavored candy coating (almond bark)
1 cup crushed peppermint candy canes

Melt almond bark in microwave. Once it is melted
add crushed candy cane. Mix together. Pour mixture onto
wax paper-lined cookie sheet, spreading very thinly with
spatula. Place cookie sheet in freezer until the mixture
has hardened. Take out of freezer and crack bark into
small pieces. Remove from wax paper and store at room temperature.

Forgotten Cookies

2010-12-12T19:35:00.000-08:00

Preheat oven to 350*. Cover 2 cookie sheets with foil sprayed with Pam. Beat the following two ingredients until thickened(about 5 minutes):

2/3 c. sugar
2 egg whites(room temperature)

Fold in:
1 c. chocolate chips
1 c. pecan pieces(optional)

Drop by spoonfuls onto pans and put in oven. Turn oven off and leave overnight or until cookies cool.

This recipe is probably the easiest cookie recipe ever! Simple and yummy. My kids really love them(mine don't like them with nuts so I leave the pecans out.)

Southwest Chicken Soup

2010-12-05T10:54:00.000-08:00

2 boxes chicken broth
4 chicken breasts
1 can black beans
1 clove garlic chopped
1 can organza beans
1 can corn, drained
1 bunch green onions chopped
3/4 cup diced carrots
2 cans Mexican style stewed tomatoes

Brown chicken in skillet with olive oil. Season with
salt and add chopped garlic. Cover and cook thoroughly.
Once chicken is cooked chop chicken and add remaining
ingredients into a large pot. Simmer 1 1/2 hours.
Serve with shredded Mexican cheese.

Printable recipe

Candy Barrel Cake

2010-11-30T19:51:00.000-08:00

I made this cake for my son's birthday last week.

He loved it! He asked me to make it for him again

next year.

1 Box Favorite Cake Mix
2 Tubs Favorite Cake Frosting
1 Big bag of Peanut or Peanut butter M&Ms
14 Regular Sized KitKats

Prepare Cake according to box directions in two
separate 8 inch round cake pans. Once cakes cool
Place one baked layer of the cake on a
a plate and cover it with frosting. Place second
layer on top and frost entire cake.
Break KitKats into two piece sticks and place
side by side around the entire outer edge of the cake
Fill the top of the cake and KitKat barrel with M&M's.

Printable recipe

Toffee Apple Dip

2010-11-21T13:02:00.000-08:00

My good friend Amanda gave me this recipe-super easy and soooo yummy!

3/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

8 oz. cream cheese, softened

1 cup HEATH milk chocolate toffee bits (in chocolate chip aisle)

Combine sugars, cheese, and vanilla. Beat until smooth and creamy. Stir in toffee bits and mix well. Cover then chill. Enjoy!

Printable recipe

Edible Cornucopia ideas

2010-11-19T12:30:00.000-08:00

Check out this sweet roll cornucopia from

Makes and Takes. Yum!

A tortilla cornucopia from Family fun:

Pumpkin Pecan Spice Monkey Bread

2010-11-15T19:08:00.000-08:00

Picture and recipe from Amazing Moms

•cooking spray
•1/3 cup granulated sugar
•1 ½ tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
•1 cup pecans, chopped
•2 (11 ounce) packages of Pillsbury Thin Crust Pizza Dough
•2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 10-11-inch spring form

pan with cooking spray and set side. In a medium bowl, combine

sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and pecans. Stir until everything is

well combined. Lightly flour a surface and roll out both pieces

of pizza dough, side by side. Brush each piece of dough with

melted butter. Sprinkle sugar/pecan mixture over each of the

pieces of dough, leaving a 1- inch border around the edge.
Roll up both pieces of dough into a log, jell-roll style. Trim off

the ends of each roll to make them neat, and then cut each roll

into about 15 (1-inch pieces). Place each piece of dough side by

side in concentric circles into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30 - 35 minutes or until bread is lightly browned.

Serve warm.

"Bananas about Pumpkin" Pudding

2010-11-12T18:10:00.000-08:00

Picture and recipe from Very Best Baking

1 (8 oz.) container frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S 100% Pure Pumpkin
2/3 cup (5 fl.-oz. can) Nestle Carnation Evaporated Fat Free Milk
1 box (.9 oz.) banana cream sugar-free, fat-free instant pudding

and pie filling mix
2 medium bananas
12 reduced-fat vanilla wafers

Reserve 1 1/2 cups whipped topping in small bowl.
Beat pumpkin, evaporated milk and pudding mix in medium
bowl until well blended. Immediately fold in remaining 1 1/2 cups
whipped topping into pumpkin mixture. Crumble 1 wafer into each
of six glass serving dishes. Divide half of pudding mixture evenly
over crumbled wafers in dishes. Slice one banana into 18 slices.
Top each pudding with three slices of banana. Divide half of
reserved whipped topping over banana slices. Repeat with
remaining pudding mixture, banana and whipped topping.
Top each pudding with 1 of remaining whole wafers.

Pecan Bars

2010-11-08T20:35:00.000-08:00

Recipe and picture from My Recipes

2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup powdered sugar
3/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
2/3 cup butter
3 tablespoons whipping cream
3 1/2 cups coarsely chopped pecans

Sift together 2 cups flour and 2/3 cup powdered sugar.
Cut in 3/4 cup softened butter using a pastry blender or
fork just until mixture resembles coarse meal. Pat mixture
on bottom and 1 1/2 inches up sides of a lightly greased
13- x 9-inch baking dish. Bake at 350° for 20 minutes or
until edges are lightly browned. Cool.
Bring brown sugar, honey, 2/3 cup butter, and whipping
cream to a boil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir
in pecans, and pour hot filling into prepared crust.
Bake at 350° for 25 to 30 minutes or until golden and
bubbly. Cool completely before cutting into 2-inch squares.

Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

2010-11-07T20:10:00.000-08:00

Recipe from Jamie Cooks it up

1 large pot full of water
4 chicken breasts (you can start with frozen

10 bullion cubes
1 t salt
1/4 t freshly ground pepper
2 boxes Rice a Roni wild rice flavor
1 onion chopped
1 1/2 C carrots chopped
3/4 C celery chopped
2 small cans mushrooms
4 cans cream of chicken soup

Fill a large pot with hot water add the chicken, onion, bullion,

salt, and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium

and simmer about 25 minutes.
Take chicken breast out of the pot, and shred it up. Put shredded

chicken back in the pot. The chicken should be cooked through.
Add the carrots, celery, mushrooms and boxes of rice (pour in the

rice and the seasoning packets that come along in the box). Cover

and let simmer about 15 minutes more, until the veggies and rice

are cooked. Add the cream of chicken, turn up the heat and let it

come to a boil. Once the soup is thickened just a bit it is ready to eat.

Printable recipe

Harvest Table Decorations

2010-11-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

Check out these beautiful Harvest Table Decorations

from Better Homes and Gardens.

Click here to see more.

Holiday Sweet Potatoes

2010-11-03T21:22:00.000-07:00

Casserole:
6 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 t. vanilla
1 t. salt
1/4 c. butter

Topping:
1/2 c. brown sugar
5 T. butter, at room temperature
1/2 c. flour
1 c. pecans, chopped

Cook the peeled, chunked sweet potatoes in boiling water until tender.
Preheat oven to 350 F. Drain potatoes and mash with electric mixer. Beat
in remaining ingredients and place in 9 x 13 baking dish. Mix together
topping ingredients and sprinkle over potatoes. Bake 30 minutes, or
until browned.

Recipe from Jenny Miner

Printable Recipe

Pumpkin Oatmeal Scotchies

2010-10-23T18:59:00.000-07:00

1 1/4 cup cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
3 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Whisk flour, baking soda,
cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a small bowl.Set aside.
Beat butter, sugar and brown sugar until smooth and
creamy. Add egg and vanilla extract. Next, add in
pumpkin and mix until combined. Slowly add in flour
mixture. Stir in oats and butterscotch chips and
chocolate chips. Drop dough by the spoonfulls onto
prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or
until the cookies are set and golden. Remove cookies
from the oven and cool on a wire rack.

Printable Recipe

Spiderweb Dip

2010-10-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

Make a fun spiderweb dip for Halloween night.

Click here to get the recipe.

Recipe and picture from Woman's Day.

Monster Munch

2010-10-15T13:49:00.000-07:00

Recipe from Our Best Bites

1 package Almond Bark (1 lb)
12 C popped popcorn (about 1/2 C kernels)
1 C candy corn
1 C dry roasted, salted peanuts
1/2 C Reece's Pieces

Pop popcorn and place in a large bowl. The largest you have.

It will make mixing easier! Pour peanuts, candy corn, and

Reece's pieces on top. Take a large knife and break up almond

bark. Melt according to package directions. Once melted pour

over popcorn mixture. Stir until everything is well coated and

then spread out onto waxed paper. Let sit until completely

dry and then break up into clumps. This is super yummy and

very addicting. You can't just eat one little bite. :)

Printable Recipe

Whole wheat pancakes

2010-10-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

1 cup whole uncooked wheat
1 cup milk
Combine and blend in blender for 4-5 minutes.

Add:
3 Tb. Honey
2 eggs
¼ cup veg. oil
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla
2tsp Cinnamon and (nutmeg to taste)

Blend all together for a 1-2 minutes.
Pour pancakes onto griddle and cook until sides start to bubble,
flip and cook a minute more. Remove. Serve with your favorite
syrup.
Recipe from my friend Jessica

Click here to get printable recipe

Pumpkin bread french toast

2010-10-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

Use your favorite pumpkin bread and turn it into

french toast.

Picture and recipe from Pennies on a Platter

1 loaf pumpkin bread, at least a day old
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp allspice
pinch of salt
2 Tbsp butter

Preheat the oven to 400˚F.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla,

cinnamon, allspice and salt; set aside.
Slice the pumpkin loaf into 8 thick slices, not counting
the end pieces (crust). Melt the butter in a large skillet.
Meanwhile, dip each slice of bread in the egg batter. Let the
bread soak up the custard. Transfer to the heated skillet
and brown for 1 to 2 minutes on each side.
Place the browned pieces of bread onto a baking sheet.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Serve with maple syrup or choice of toppings.

Pumpkin poptarts

2010-10-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

Check out these cute pumpkin poptarts from

The Family Kitchen.

They have a yummy pumpkin filling

inside. I know my boys would love

these.

Salty and Sweet Caramel apples

2010-10-03T19:53:00.000-07:00

Carmel apples are probably one of my

favorite fall treats. I can't wait to

make this yummy Carmel apple from

Chow. Click here to get the recipe.

Picture from Chow.com

Easy apple crisp

2010-10-03T19:22:00.000-07:00

FILLING:
2-20 ounce cans apple pie filling
1 t. cinnamon

TOPPING:
1 cup rolled oats
1/3 cup flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 t. cinnamon
1/8 t. cloves
1/3 cup butter, room temp.

Lightly grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
Spread apple pie filling on bottom of baking dish.
Combine topping ingredients above in a small bowl.
Mix until crumbly. Sprinkle crumbs over the apples.
Bake at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes. Serve with vanilla
ice cream or whipped topping.
Printable Recipe

Incredibly Cheesy Turkey Meatloaf

2010-09-28T08:52:00.000-07:00

2 pounds ground turkey
1 cup milk
1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
2 eggs
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3/4 pound Colby cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
1/2 cup ketchup (optional)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. In a bowl, mix the turkey,
milk, bread crumbs, and eggs by hand. Season with salt and
pepper. Fold the cheese cubes into the mixture. Transfer to
a loaf pan, and top with ketchup. Bake 1 hour.
(Printable Recipe)

Printing recipes

2010-09-23T20:56:00.000-07:00

You can now start printing some of This Mama Loves
to Cook recipes. At the bottom of each recipe click on
printable recipe link and it will take you to a page where
you can print off the recipe. I am working on adding this
to all the recipes so be patient with me because it will take
some time.

Raisin Bread French Toast

2010-09-21T20:39:00.000-07:00

4 eggs
1 Tablespoon milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
Powder sugar
Raisin bread

Heat griddle and lightly grease. In large bowl, whisk
eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. Dip raisin bread
slices in the batter and cook until golden brown on
both sides. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Serve
with syrup or fruit.

(Printable Recipe)

Fruit and Nut Salad

2010-09-13T19:41:00.000-07:00

Recipe modified from The Girl who ate everything

1 bag of prechopped Romaine lettuce
1 Granny Smith apple cubed
1 cup strawberries, sliced
1 cup red grapes, halved
1/2 cup of pecans
1 (4 ounce) container crumbled feta

Bottle Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing

Put everything in a large bowl and top with Raspberry Vinaigrette.

You can also add cooked diced chicken to the salad.

(Printable Recipe)

Stuffed pizza rolls

2010-09-08T20:19:00.000-07:00

My family loves these pizza rolls. My oldest boy tells

me I'm the best cook when I make these. :)

1 roll refrigerated pizza dough (or make your own)
marinara/pizza sauce
2 T grated Parmesan cheese
1 T olive oil or melted butter
1/2 t garlic powder
1 t dried Italian seasoning
mozzarella cheese
Pizza toppings of your choice: ham and pineapple,

pepperoni slices, sausage, etc.

Preheat oven to heat specified on pizza dough package.

About 400 degrees.
Unroll your pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface.

Pat or roll the dough so it's about 12" by 8". You're

going to want to cut it into about 24 squares.

Use a pizza cutter to slice the dough into 24 squares
Place cheese and desired topping on each square.
When your dough squares have cheese and toppings

on them, carefully lift up each square and

wrap the dough around the toppings.

Pinch to make sure each ball is sealed shut and then place

them seam side down in a lightly sprayed pie pan.

Brush the tops of the dough balls with olive oil or

melted butter and then sprinkle with the garlic

and Italian seasoning and top with Parmesan cheese.

Cook them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or

until golden brown on top

Serve warm with warmed marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Recipe from Our Best Bites

(Printable Recipe)

Creamy Chicken Tacos

2010-09-08T20:10:00.000-07:00

Recipe from Jamie cooks it up

5 frozen chicken breasts
1 1/2 C salsa
2 cans cream of chicken soup
2 1/2 T taco seasoning
1 T maple syrup
1 t lime juice (you can use bottled)
1 T butter
1/2 C sour cream

Place the frozen chicken breasts inside crock pot.
In a small bowl stir together all other ingredients
but the butter and sour cream. Pour sauce over the
top of the chicken. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours, or
on low for 7-8 hours. Take chicken out of the crock pot and shred
it up with a fork and throw it back in. Add the butter and
sour cream, stir it all around until incorporated.
Cook for 1 more hour. Serve over Tortilla chips or Tortillas.

Top with tomatoes, onions, cheddar cheese, and lettuce.

(Printable Recipe)

Banana nut muffins

2010-08-29T18:24:00.000-07:00

3 large ripe bananas, mashed (about 1-1/4 cups)
1/3 cup melted butter
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1-1/2 cups flour
1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

In a large bowl, combine the bananas and butter;

stir in the sugar, egg and vanilla extract.In a small

bowl, combine the baking soda, salt and flour.

Add the flour mixture to the banana mixture; blend well.

Fill greased muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake at 350 degrees.

for 18 to 22 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.

Makes 12 muffins or 24 mini muffins.

(Printable Recipe)

Blueberry Crumb Cake

2010-08-22T13:57:00.000-07:00

Ingredients
½ stick Butter
1 Tablespoon (additional) Butter
¾ cups Sugar
1 Egg
½ teaspoons Vanilla Extract
2 cups All-purpose Flour
2-¼ teaspoons Baking Powder
½ teaspoons Salt
¾ cups Milk
2 cups Fresh Blueberries

TOPPING:
¾ stick Butter
½ cups Sugar
½ teaspoons Cinnamon
½ cups Flour
¼ teaspoons Salt

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Cream 1/2 stick plus 1 tablespoon butter with cinnamon and
sugar. Add egg and mix until combined. Add vanilla and mix.
Then add flour, baking powder, and salt to the mix.
Add flour mixture and milk alternately until totally incorporated.
Do not over beat. Stir in blueberries. Grease a 9 x 13 inch
baking pan. Pour in batter.
In a separate bowl, combine topping ingredients and
cut together using two knives or a pastry cutter.
Sprinkle over the top of the cake. Bake cake for 40 to 45 minutes,
or until golden brown.

(Printable Recipe)
Recipe from The Pioneer Woman

Simple Rotisserie chicken recipes

2010-08-17T16:37:00.000-07:00

Here are some simple Rotisserie Chicken recipes I found from
24/7 Moms. I just love 24/7 moms site they have some great
tips and ideas. Go check them out!

1. Chicken Wraps - Shred the chicken onto tortillas, add hoisin sauce and coleslaw, then roll it up for a simple yummy meal

2. Chicken Pizza - Create a pizza using refrigerated pizza dough, salad dressing for the sauce and rotisserie chicken, pizza cheese mixture. Add additional toppings of your choosing. Bake 425 for 20-25 minutes.

3. BBQ Chicken Sandwich - Shred chicken, add desired amount of BBQ sauce. Place in slow cooker on warm. Serve on hamburger buns or Kaiser rolls.

4. Chicken Tacos- Shred chicken place in frying pan with taco seasoning ( follow package instructions). Use as meat filler for your tacos. Serve corn and /or flour tortillas with shredded lettuce, grated cheese, diced tomatoes, and other things your family enjoys in their tacos.

5. Chicken Pot pie - Shred chicken combine with condensed cream of chicken soup and frozen mixed veggies. Pour into a prepared 10" pie shell, cover with a 2nd pie crust and bake at 365 degree's for 45 minutes.

6. Chicken pasta salad - Make rotinni pasta and cool; toss shredded rotisserie chicken with pasta, and salad dressing. Add in toasted almonds or walnuts, diced celery , apples or other veggies..

7. Chicken and Cheese quesadilla- Shred chicken place in frying pan with taco seasoning ( follow package instructions). Place a flour tortilla in an empty frying pan then scoop on the chicken mixture along with shredded cheese place a 2nd flour tortilla on top and heat over medium heat flipping from time to time until cheese is melted and tortilla shell is a little crispy.

8. Chicken Hobo Pack - Use one sheet of aluminum foil for each serving ( person) about 12"x 8". In the center place bite-sized red-potato chunks, shredded chicken, and veggies ( onions, zucchini, carrots, peppers etc) Top with three tablespoons BBQ sauce, then close the hobo packets by sealing sides and tops together, folding to close tightly. Place packets over medium heat on a grill and cook until potatoes are cooked.

Mambo Chicken with Mango Salsa

2010-08-12T09:47:00.000-07:00

Recipe from my friend Laurel

4 boneless, skinless, chicken breasts
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 T freshly grated ginger
1/4 C soy sauce
1/4 C lime juice

Rinse chicken. Pat dry with paper towel. In baking baking

dish combine remaining ingredients. Add chicken, turning

to mix. Cover with foil and marinate for 2-4 hrs. in fridge.

Combine ingredients for salsa (below) in a bowl and reserve.

Preheat oven to 375. Transfer covered baking dish to oven

and bake for appx. 20 min. or til chicken is cooked thoroughly.

You could also grill you chicken which I did.

To serve, spoon a generous serving of salsa on top of chicken.

Mango Salsa:

2 mango's, peeled, pitted, and cut into 1/4" cubes
3 T lime juice
1-2 jalapeno chilies, seeds and membranes removed, minced
3 green onions, finely sliced
2/3 C lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves, stems discarded, coarsely chopped.

Cowboy Caviar

2010-08-08T20:42:00.001-07:00

1 can black beans, drained
3 large tomatoes, chopped
3 large avocados, chopped
2 Tbs chopped green onions
1 package dry Italian dressing
2 Tbs olive oil
1/4 cup white vinegar
3 Tbs water

In a large bowl mix corn, peas, tomatoes, avocados and

onions. In another bowl mix the dry Italian dressing,

olive oil, vinegar and water. Pour the dressing over the

vegetable mixture and toss until evenly coated.

Serve with tortilla chips.

(Printable Recipe)
Recipe from Little Birdie Secrets

Cookie Marshmallow S’mores

2010-08-04T12:56:00.000-07:00

Here is a fun and yummy summer activity.

Click here to find out how to make

these yummy cookie marshmallow S'mores.

Picture from Snack Picks

Balsamic Chicken with Tomato and Mozzarella Topping

2010-08-03T18:34:00.000-07:00

Recipe from Favorite Family Recipes

Grilled Balsamic Chicken:
1 pkg Good Seasons Italian dressing
1/4 c. olive oil
1/2 c. balsamic vinegar
Marinate for at least an hour then grill over medium heat.

Tomato and Mozzarella Topping:
6 large tomatoes, diced
8 sticks of mozzerella string cheese, cut into rounds
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
¼ cup olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
Mix together and marinade for at least an hour before serving.

Serve hot chicken over a bed of arugula then top with

chilled tomato and mozzarella mix.

(Printable Recipe)

Apricot fruit leather

2010-07-30T19:01:00.000-07:00

My in laws have a couple of apricot trees in their yard.

While visiting them we helped picked apricots

and I learned how to make apricot leather.

Apricot Leather is basically a large fruit roll up.

1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 cups pitted and diced fresh apricots
1/2 cup white sugar

Directions
Preheat the oven to 150 degrees or the lowest setting you have.
Cut the apricots in half and take out the pits.
Combine lemon juice, apricots and sugar in blender. Blend
until mixture smoothed. Cover a cookie sheet with a
layer of plastic wrap (helpful tip is to tape the sides).
Pour the pureed fruit onto the plastic and spread evenly
to within 1 inch of the edge. Bake for 4 to 6 hours in
the preheated oven, until the puree has dried and is no
longer sticky. Once dry, you can cut it into strips
and wrap in wax paper. Store in an airtight container.

Easy Mandarin Orange Salad

2010-07-29T15:20:00.001-07:00

You need...
- your favorite salad greens (I use a spinach & spring mix mix.)
- a can of mandarin oranges (You could use less, but why? They're so yummy!)
- candied almonds (heat a skillet...add slivered "raw" almonds + a bit of sugar & stir until toasted...it only takes a minute or two...cool on wax paper or foil)

You can also add...
- chopped green onion (I usually leave them out.)

Toss toss toss. The orange juice is the dressing, which is what I love most about it. Dressings are always too gloppy, too thick or too tart for me. The orange juice is a perfect dressing.

Recipe and photos from my friend, Natalie, at 100 Percent Cottam

Recipes for the Grill

2010-07-13T17:10:00.001-07:00

Easy Grilled S'mores from Reynolds

4 sheets (8x12-inches each) Reynolds Wrap

Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil
4 graham crackers, broken into halves
2 milk chocolate candy bars, divided in half crosswise
4 large marshmallows

Preheat grill to medium

For each S′more, top one graham cracker square with one

candy bar half, one marshmallow and another graham

cracker square. Repeat with remaining graham crackers,

candy and marshmallows.
Center one S′more on each sheet of Reynolds

Wrap Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil.
Bring up foil sides. Double fold top and ends to

seal packet, leaving room for heat circulation inside.

Repeat to make four packets.
Grill 4 to 5 minutes in covered grill

Banana Boats from Taste of Home

Click here to get recipe

4th of July Centerpieces

2010-07-02T14:20:00.000-07:00

Make these super cute and easy centerpieces

for your 4th of July table.

For this centerpiece visit Makes and Takes for

the instructions.

I love this centerpiece. Just add any red,

white and blue candy to a dish and top with red

licorice for fireworks. Now you have a cute

centerpiece you can eat. Idea from

Crafts and Deals

Red, White, and Blue Strawberries

2010-06-29T17:32:00.000-07:00

Check out these super cute strawberries
from Rachel Ray.
Dip strawberries into melted white
chocolate and roll in blue-colored sugar.

Smores on a stick

2010-06-28T19:26:00.000-07:00

I got this cute idea from Whimsical Creations

My boys had a blast making these.

Ingredients:
large marshmallows
melting chocolate
graham crackers
sprinkles
lollipop sticks

Crush graham crackers and add sprinkles.
Put a lollipop stick in each marshmallow.
Melt chocolate and dip marshmallow in
the chocolate and roll in graham crackers.
Place on a cookie sheet and put in the fridge
for the chocolate to set up.