Peanut Butter Fudge

Stir 2 Cups of Sugar in 2/3 Cup of milk over low heat until it reaches 234 degrees. Remove from heat and stir in 1 Cup Marshmallow Cream, 1 Cup Peanut Butter (I prefer chunky), and 1 tea. of Vanilla. Pour into an 8x8 pan and let set. Once it it firm, cut into desired pieces.

Cream Chesse Scrambled Eggs

I was a little unsure about trying these. My son is a very picky eater. He loves scrambled eggs but he doesn't like change. But I did want to try to fancy up my scrambled eggs a bit, so I tried it. I left the bacon out of his and he didn't noticed much difference. We didn't notice a huge difference either. They were good, a little creamer, but of course much fatter with all that was put into it. But if you are looking for something slightly different, they are worth trying.

Ingredients

• 1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons half-and-half cream
• 8 eggs
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon-pepper seasoning
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup real bacon bits
• 2 tablespoons butter

Directions

• In a small bowl, beat cream cheese and cream until smooth. Beat in the eggs, Parmesan cheese, lemon-pepper and salt. Stir in bacon.
• In a large skillet, melt butter; add egg mixture. Cook and stir over medium heat until eggs are completely set. Yield: 4 servings.

Coconut Almond Muffins

These were supper yummy!! The recipe makes 6.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1-1/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup flaked coconut
• 1/4 cup min semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Additional sugar

Directions

• In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, whisk the egg, sour cream, butter and extract. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in coconut and chocolate chips.
• Fill greased muffin cups two-thirds full. Sprinkle with almonds and additional sugar. Bake at 375° for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack. Yield: 6 muffins.

Caramel Harvest Brownies

1 Betty Crocker German Chocolate Cake
package of caramels

Take your cake mix add 1/4 cup flour
1/3 cup evaporated milk
3/4 cup melted butter
Mix well take 1/2 of the mix and put on the bottom of 9x13 cake pan cook for 6 min. at 350*.
While that is cooking take your caramels and 1/3 cup evaporated milk and melt in the microwave.
When you get the cake mix out, put 3 oz of chocolate chips down the caramel mixture and on top of that 3 more ounces of chocolate chips. Take the rest of the cake mixture on drop all over the pan cook for 15 minutes at 350 let cool.

Harvest Pumpkin Brownies

1 can (16 oz) pumpkin

4 eggs

¾ c vegetable oil

2 sp vanilla

2 c flour

2 c sugar

1 T pumpkin pie spice

2 tsp cinnamon

2 tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

Beat pumpkin, eggs and vanilla until well mixed. Combine dry ingredients and stir pumpkin mixture until well blended. Pour into a 15x10x1-inch baking sheet. Bake 20-25 minutes at 350*. Let cool.

Frosting:

6T butter

1 pkg cream cheese, softened

1 tsp vanilla

1/8 tsp salt

1 tsp milk

1 ½-2 c powdered sugar

Beat butter, cream cheese, vanilla, salt and milk until smooth. Add powdered sugar. Frost brownies and store in refrigerator.

White Chocolate Caramel Apples

2 cups heavy crème

1 cup dark Karo syrup

2 cubes butter

2 cups sugar

Pure vanilla extract

Salt

Mix Karo syrup and butter in a large pot. Bring to a boil. Slowly mix in sugar and let dissolve. Let boil again. Slowly mix in crème and boil for approx. 10 minutes. Boil until soft ball set stage. Add 1 tsp vanilla and a dash of salt before taking it off of the stove. Dip apples in caramel after caramel has been off of stove for a couple of minutes. Let cool. May dip apples in white vanilla bark (melted) before dipping into the caramel.

Cheddar Potato Soup

4-5 Russet Potatoes (peeled and cubed)

1 cup baby carrots cut into thirds

1 T dried minced onion

¾ t salt

½ c butter

½ c flour

2 c milk

1 c chicken broth

2 c cheddar cheese

½ t pepper

Place potatoes, carrots, onion and salt in a large soup pan. Cover vegetables with water and bring to a boil. Simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes or until tender.

In a separate pan, melt butter, then stir in flour. Whisk in milk and chicken broth. Cook over medium heat until it begins to thicken. Pour into cooked vegetables. Stir in cheese and pepper. Garnish with grated cheddar cheese or gold fish crackers!! Makes 8-10 servings.

Wild Rice Soup

1 medium onion, chopped

2 c celery, diced

2 c carrots, diced

½ c butter

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp pepper

½ c flour

4c chicken broth

2 c half & half

Shredded chicken, cooked

Uncle Ben’s Long Grain Wild rice

Cook box of wild rice as directed and set aside. Melt butter in pot and sauté onion, celery and carrots (approx 5-10 minutes) Add flour until bubbly. Add chicken broth. Add half & half and bring to a boil, then add chicken. Add rice and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve in a bread bowl.

Cranberry Salad*

1 bag cranberries- crushed/chopped mix with 1 ½ c sugar and put into refrigerator overnight.

Next day add:

20 oz crushed pineapple, drained

1 pkg mini marshmallows

1 pint cool whip

Mix together and chill until ready to serve.

* Everybody in the Dallimore family LOVES this salad and it’s SO easy!! I also love that half of it can be prepped the day before. This salad can also be put into the freezer for a cooler treat!

Apple Butter Pumpkin Pie

1 c apple butter

1 c canned pumpkin

½ c packed brown sugar

¾ tsp ground cinnamon

¾ tsp ground nutmeg

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp ground ginger

3 eggs lightly beaten

¾ c evaporated milk

1 unbaked pastry shell

Whipped Cream

In a large bowl, combine the apple butter, pumpkin, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and ginger. Add eggs. Gradually beat in milk until smooth. Pour into pastry shell. Bake at 425* for 35-40 minutes or until set (cover the edges loosely with foil if necessary to prevent over browning). Cool on a wire rack. Garnish with whipped cream. Refrigerate leftovers.

Creamed Potato Casserole

10 lbs medium potatoes (about 30)

2/3 cup + 3T butter, divided

2/3 c all-purpose flour

5 c chicken broth

5 c half-and-half cream

8 egg yolks, lightly beaten

1 ½ c minced fresh parsley

3 tsp salt

¾ tsp pepper

¼ tsp cayenne pepper

1 cup seasoned bread crumbs

Place potatoes in a large pan; cover with water. Bring to boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 20 minutes or just until tender. Drain and rinse in cold water. When cool enough to handle, peel potatoes and cut unto ¼-inch slices; set aside. In a large saucepan, melt 2/3 cup butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add broth and cream. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat. Spread 1 cup sauce into each of two 3-qts baking dish. Top with a third of the potato slices. Repeat layers twice. Spread with remaining butter; toss with bread crumbs. Sprinkle over casseroles. Bake uncovered at 375* for 40-45 minutes or until bubbly.

Whole Wheat Cinnamon Pancake Mix

8 c whole wheat flour

2 t salt

1 1/3 c dry milk

1 T cinnamon

3 T + 1t baking powder

1 c sugar ½ c wheat germ

Mix well. Note: Stir each time before measuring out the mix for making pancakes.

Pancake from bulk mix: 1 ½ c whole wheat pancake mix

1 egg

2/3 c milk

3T oil

½ c water

Beat egg, oil, water and milk. Add pancake mix and stir with wire whisk until moist, but don’t over mix!!

Autumn Spice Cake

½ cup butter, softened

1 cup shortening

1 c dark brown sugar

1 c sugar

4 eggs

1 ½ cups buttermilk

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

2 c flour

1 T Dutch-processed cocoa

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp ground nutmeg

½ tsp ground allspice

½ tsp ground cloves

Heat oven to 350*. Line two 9-inch cake pans with parchment paper and lightly butter. Beat butter, shortening and sugars together until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time until smooth and light. Stir in buttermilk, in thirds, into the beaten butter. Blend well with each addition. Pour batter into the pans and bake until center tests clean- about 35 minutes. Cool cakes in the pans on a rack for 30 minutes, unmold, and cool completely before frosting.

Autumn Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

4T butter, softened

3 T whole milk

3 cups powdered sugar, sifted

2/3 c cocoa

1/8 tsp salt

1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract

Beat cream cheese, butter and milk together until smooth. Add sugar, cocoa and salt and continue to beat until blended. Reduce mixer speed and add the vanilla and beat until smooth. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before frosting.

Orange-Frosted Cranberry Cookies

1 c sugar

½ c packed brown sugar

1 c butter, softened

1 tsp grated orange peel

2 T orange juice

1 egg

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

2 cups coarsely chopped fresh or frozen cranberries

½ chopped nuts, if desired

Heat oven to 375* spray cookie sheet with cooking spray.

Beat together sugars, butter, orange peel, orange juice and egg with electric mixer on medium speed, or mix with spoon. Stir in flour, baking soda and salt. Stir in cranberries and nuts. Drop dough by round tablespoonfuls about 2 inches apart onto cookie sheet. Bake 12-14 minutes or until edges and bottoms of cookies are lightly golden brown. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. Frost cookies.

Orange Frosting

1 ½ c powdered sugar

½ tsp grated orange peel

2-3 T orange juice

Mix together until smooth and spreadable.

Chocolate-Drizzled Cherry Bars

2 c all-purpose flour

2 cup quick cooking oats

1 ½ cups sugar

1 ¼ cups butter, softened

1 can cherry pie filling*

1 tsp almond extract

¼ cup milk chocolate chips

¾ teaspoon shortening

Combine flour, oats, sugar and butter until crumbly. Set aside 1 ½ cups for topping . Press remaining crumb mixture into an ungreased 13x9x2-inch baking dish. Bake at 350* for 15-18 minutes or until edges begin to brown.

In a bowl, combine pie filling and extract; carefully spread over crust. Sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture.

Bake 20-25 minutes longer or until edges and topping are lightly browned. In a microwave or heavy saucepan, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Drizzle lightly over warm bars. Cool completely on wire rack.

* Any pie filling may be used as desired!!!

Cranberry Mist

½ c vanilla or eggnog ice cream

½ tsp nutmeg

2 tsp (heaping) fresh cranberry sauce

Mix in blender & pour into glass. Sprinkle nutmeg. Float whole cranberry sauce on top. Stir with a cinnamon stick.

To make fresh cranberry sauce:

2 c fresh cranberries

½ c sugar

Mix and cook until soft!!

Peach Crisp With Maple Cream Sauce

1 c flour

½ c sugar

½ c firmly packed light brown sugar

½ tsp cinnamon

½ tsp nutmeg

¼ tsp salt

1 stick butter, cut into bits.

Mix ingredients together with a fork or pastry cutter. Mix until butter is evenly mixed in. Set aside. Peel and slice 5-6 cups of fresh peaches. Take half of a fresh lemon and grate off the zest. Add zest to peaches and squeeze the juice from the lemon half. Add 2 T pure maple syrup. Stir peaches well. Pour peach mixture into an 8X8-inch baking dish. Sprinkle crumb mixture over the top. Lightly even out with a fork. Cover tightly with tin foil and bake at 350* for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes or until top is crisp brown.

Maple Cream Sauce:
1 ½ c heavy whipping cream

Pour into a small saucepan and add;

5T pure maple syrup

3T light corn syrup

Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened about 15 minutes, no need to stir vigorously!! Remove from heat and chill in the refrigerator until it’s cold and thick. Pour sauce over warm cobbler and serve.

Honey Cooked Ham

1 (4lb) fully cooked, boneless ham

½ c honey

2 T Dijon mustard

¼ tsp ground cloves

1 (11 oz.) Mandarin oranges in light syrup

Preheat oven to 325*. If ham has skin, peel it away using a sharp knife and discard. Score with a sharp knife by cutting diagonal lines: about ½-inch deep. Transfer ham to a foil-lined roasting pan and set aside. Whisk together honey, mustard and cloves. Brush over entire ham. Pour mandarin oranges with liquid over ham. Bake for 1 hour or 14 minutes per pound. Baste every 15 minutes with juices.

Ginger Sirloin Strips

Ingredients

• 1 can (14 ounces) pineapple tidbits
• 1 can (11 ounces) mandarin oranges
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1-1/2 pounds boneless beef sirloin steak, cut into strips
• 4-1/2 teaspoons minced fresh gingerroot
• 1 tablespoon Crisco® Pure Olive Oil
• 1 can (14 ounces) whole-berry cranberry sauce
• 1 cup thinly sliced green onions
• Hot cooked rice

Directions

• Drain pineapple and oranges, reserving juice; set fruit aside. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and juices until smooth; set aside.
• In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry beef and ginger in oil until meat is no longer pink. Add the cranberry sauce, onions and pineapple. Stir cornstarch mixture and gradually add to skillet; cook and stir until slightly thickened. Gently stir in oranges. Serve with rice. Yield: 7 servings.

Easy Fruit Salad

1 can (11oz.) Mandarin Oranges
1 can (8oz.) Pineapple chunks or tidbits
1 Red Apple
1 Cup seedless grapes
1-2 Bananas
1 container (60z.) plain yogurt
1 TBLS Honey
1 TBLS Lemon Juice

Drain oranges and pineapple. Cut up apple and banana. Mix everything together.
yield 4 servings

Strawberry Shortcake Cookies

As seen in the Martha Stewart Magazine June 2009. My family really enjoyed them.

Ingredients

Makes about 3 dozen

• 12 ounces strawberries, hulled and cut into 1/4-inch dice (2 cups)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
• 3 ounces (6 tablespoons) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 2/3 cup heavy cream
• Sanding sugar, for sprinkling

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine strawberries, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar. Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and remaining 7 tablespoons granulated sugar in a large bowl. Cut in the butter with a pastry cutter, or rub in with your fingers, until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cream until dough starts to come together, then stir in strawberry mixture.
2. Using a 1 1/2-inch ice cream scoop or a tablespoon, drop dough onto baking sheets lined with parchment, spacing evenly apart. Sprinkle with sanding sugar, and bake until golden brown, 24 to 25 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack, and let cool. Cookies are best served immediately, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day

Hawaiian Haystacks

This is one that has been around for awhile. I actually never made it till tonight. I searched around for a sauce recipe and found one that sounded good. We all enjoyed it. I would love to hear how you make hawaiian haystacks. What toppings do you use? How do you make your sauce?

Make enough rice for your family

Sauce:
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup of sour cream
3/4 cup of chicken broth
1 1/2 cups of cooked shredded chicken
1 teaspoon of dehydrated onion (optional)
salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste

Mix all together until warm. Pour over rice.

Add toppings:
Pineapple
Mandarin oranges
Green Pepper
Green Onion
Chow Mien Noodles
Grated Cheese

Oatmeal Berry Breakfast Bar

This hearty bar is easily handheld for breakfast on the go. We used berries in our version, but it's equally tasty with peeled and chopped peaches, nectarines, or plums.

Crust and Topping: 1 cup flour 3/4 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes 2 1/2 cups quick-cook oats 2 tablespoons apple or orange juice Filling: 1/4 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed 2 tablespoons flour Pinch of salt 3 1/2 cups (18 ounces) fresh blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Step 1
Heat the oven to 375°. Grease a 9- by 13-inch pan.

Step 2
Add the flour, light brown sugar, and salt to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse once or twice to combine, then add the butter and pulse five or six more times until coarse crumbs form. Add the oats and pulse two or three more times.

Step 3
Remove 1 1/2 cups of the mixture and set it aside. Add the juice to the remaining mixture and pulse three or four times until it's just moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan using your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup.

Step 4
For the filling, whisk together the sugar, flour, and salt in a medium-size bowl. Add the fruit and lemon juice and gently toss the mixture using a rubber spatula until the fruit is coated. Distribute the filling over the crust.

Step 5
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the filling. Bake the dish until the top is golden, about 35 to 40 minutes. Let the pan cool on a wire rack for about 2 hours, then cut the sheet into 16 bars. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Better Than Best Fried Chicken

This was awesome! I made it at Scout Camp and it turned out great.
Prep Time: 15 Mins
Cook Time: 30 Mins

INGREDIENTS
8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
2 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
2 eggs
seasoning salt to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
salt and pepper to taste
oil for frying

DIRECTIONS

In a shallow dish or bowl combine the soup, egg and seasoning salt (be careful, as soup is already salted); mix together. Dip chicken in mixture and turn to coat completely. Set aside.

In a resealable plastic bag mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper. One at a time, place chicken pieces in bag, seal and shake to coat. Add more flour and/or cornstarch as necessary, but add them in equal parts (there should be an equal amount of each in the mixture).

Place coated chicken on a platter and allow to sit until it becomes doughy (this is critical, to ensure crispiness when fried). Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat; be sure to use enough oil to cover chicken pieces. Once chicken is doughy, test oil by dropping a piece of the 'dough' into it; the oil is ready when it starts to fry immediately.

Fry chicken pieces in oil for about 7 to 10 minutes each, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Drain on paper towels and serve.

Hamburger Soup

1 ½ lbs ground beef
1medium onion, chopped fine
1 28oz. can diced tomatoes
2 cups water
3 cans beef consommé
1 can tomato soup
4 carrots chopped fine
1 bay leaf
3 sticks celery, chopped fine
½ tsp. Parsley
½ tsp. Thyme
Pepper to taste
8 Tbsp. Pearl Barley

Brown ground beef and onions drain well. Combine all ingredients in large pot. Simmer covered, at least 2 hours or all day. Serves 10

Chicken Avocado Salad

1 lb. grilled chicken breasts, sliced
1 can (15 oz) Black Beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (11 oz) Mexicorn, drained
1-1/3 Cup chopped peeled avocados
1 Cup chopped cucumber
1 Cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
1 teaspoon lime juice

Combine all ingredients together in a large bowl. And Mix.

In a small bowl combine:
2 Tablespoons cider Vinegar
1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper

Mix together and pour into large Salad mixture. Turn and coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Fiesta Fajitas with Fresh Pineapple Salsa

Fresh Pineapple Salsa 2 cups fresh pineapple, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1/2 cup cilantro 1/2 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (or less for a milder taste) Salt 1. Place all of the ingredients but the salt in a blender or food processor and pulse until the ingredients are mixed but still chunky. 2. Transfer the salsa to a bowl, salt it to taste, then cover and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Makes 2 cups. Note: add the cilantro slowly, you may not want to use the whole 1/2 cup Fiesta Fajitas
	For the marinade:
	1/3 cup canned pineapple juice
	2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
	2 cloves garlic, minced
	2 teaspoons cumin
	1/3 cup vegetable oil
	1 teaspoon salt
	1/4 teaspoon pepper For the fajitas:
	2 pork tenderloins (about 2 pounds), trimmed of silver skin
	2 large red onions, cut into 1-inch-thick slices and threaded lollipop-style on skewers
	2 green bell peppers, cored, seeded, and cut into quarters
	2 red bell peppers, cored, seeded, and cut into quarters
	Olive oil for brushing
	8 flour tortillas, wrapped in foil

1. Combine the marinade ingredients in a large ziplock bag, then add the tenderloins and toss them to coat. Place the sealed bag in the refrigerator and allow the tenderloins to marinate for at least an hour, but preferably overnight.
2. Prepare the grill for cooking. Brush the onion skewers and bell peppers with olive oil. Grill the vegetables until they are soft, about 20 minutes, and the tenderloins, turning them occasionally, until the centers register 145°, also about 20 minutes. Transfer all the food to a baking sheet and allow the tenderloins to rest for 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, remove the onion slices from the skewers. Chop them and the bell peppers, then arrange the vegetables on one side of a large serving platter. Slice the tenderloins into strips, then arrange them beside the vegetables.
4. Heat the foil-wrapped tortillas on the coolest part of the grill, turning them several times until they are warmed through. Serve the grilled vegetables, tenderloin strips, and tortillas with small bowls of the fresh pineapple sauce, guacamole, and sour cream. Serves 8.

Asparagus Beef Lo Mein

Ingredients:

* 1 boneless beef sirloin steak (1 pound), thinly sliced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-1/2-inch pieces
* 1/4 teaspoon minced garlic
* 2-1/4 cups water, divided
* 2 packages (3 ounces each) beef ramen noodles
* 2/3 cup hoisin sauce

Directions:
In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry beef in oil for 5 minutes or until meat is no longer pink. Add the asparagus and garlic; stir-fry for 2 minutes or until asparagus is crisp-tender.
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup water and 1/2 teaspoon seasoning from one ramen noodle seasoning packet; stir until dissolved. Add hoisin sauce; stir into the beef mixture. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. (Discard remaining seasoning from opened packet.)
In a large saucepan, bring remaining water to a boil; add ramen noodles and contents of remaining seasoning packet. Cook for 3 minutes. Remove from the heat; cover and let stand until noodles are tender. Serve with beef mixture. Yield: 4 servings.

Chocolate-Cherry Ice Cream Pie with Hot Fudge Sauce

Sauce

• 1 cup whipping cream
• 12 ounces bittersweet (not unsweetened) or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped

Filling

• 3/4 pound fresh Bing cherries, pitted, coarsely chopped
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 quart purchased vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
• 1/2 cup (about 3 ounces) miniature semisweet chocolate chips

• Chocolate Cookie Crust
  

For sauce:
Bring whipping cream to simmer in heavy medium saucepan; remove from heat. Add chopped chocolate; whisk until smooth.

Filling:
Combine cherries and sugar in heavy medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to boil. Reduce heat; simmer until thick syrup forms, stirring often, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Mix in almond extract. Cool to room temperature.

Place ice cream in large bowl. Fold in cherry mixture and chocolate chips. Pack ice cream mixture into crust. Cover pie and freeze. (Sauce and pie can be prepared 3 days ahead. Cover and refrigerate sauce. Keep pie frozen.)

Rewarm sauce over low heat. Cut pie into wedges; serve with sauce.

Strawberry Jello Squares With Cream Cheese

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 melted butter

1/4 cup sugar

Mix ingredients above and pack it in a 13x9x2-inch pan. Chill in freezer for 15 minutes.

Mix together:

1 (8oz) pkg cream cheese

1/4 cup sugar

1/4 cup milk 3 1/2 cups cool whip - Mix last

Spread cream cheese mixture over graham crust. Layer strawberries, cut in half or thirds. Put into fridge.

Dissolve (6oz) strawberry jello in 1 cup boiling water. Add 1 cup cold water and enough ice cubes to make 2 1/2 cups. Pour over cream cheese and strawberries. Cover completely. Refrigerate until firm and time to serve. Just before serving, apply a thin layer of cool whip over jello layer. May garnish lightly with graham cracker crumbs.

Note: Other yummy variations are Peach, Blueberry and Raspberry. Be sure to thoroughly drain fruit so it has no juice. I'm always asked to bring this recipe to family functions. Everyone always has fabulous compliments after eating it!!:0)

BLUEBERRY RIPPLE CAKE

A Taste of Home Recipe!!

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 cup cold butter

1 package(18-1/4 ounces) white cake mix

1 1/4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. cut in butter until crumbly. sprinkle half of the mixture into a greased 13x9x2-inch baking dish.

Prepare the cake mix batter according to package directions; spread over crumble mixture. Top cake batter with remaining crumble mixture and top with blueberries. Lightly swirl with a knife.

Bake at 350* for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Serve warm; or cool to room temperature and serve with ice cream.

Yield: 12-15 servings

Note: If using frozen blueberries, do NOT thaw before adding to the batter.

Poached Mango Chicken

Makes 2 servings
2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (about 8 oz. each)
2/3 cup mango nectar or juice
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 teaspoons fresh gingerroot, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
Salt
Thin lime slices (optional)

Cooked basmati rice for serving

With a mallet, gently pound chicken breasts until they are relatively flat and of even thickness overall (this will help the chicken cook evenly). In a 10- to 12- inch frying pan, stir together mango nectar, broth, lime juice, ginger, and cinnamon. Add chicken to broth mixture and simmer gently, covered, over medium heat until meat in the thickest part is no longer pink; cut to test (15 to 20 minutes). Transfer chicken to a platter and keep warm. Bring cooking liquid to a boil over high heat; then boil, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1/2 cup (2 to 3 minutes).
Stir cornstarch into 2 tablespoons of water and pour the mixture into the pan. Return to a boil and stir until the sauce is thickened. Season to taste with salt. Spoon sauce over chicken.
Garnish with lime slices, if desired. Serve over cooked rice.

Pepper Jack Stuffed Chicken

Ingredients:
2 ounces pepper Jack cheese
2 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)
1 teaspoon Mexican or taco seasoning
1 tablespoon canola oil

Directions:

Cut cheese into two 2-1/4-n. x 1-in. x 3/4-in. strips. Flatten chicken to 1/4-in. thickness. Place a strip of cheese down the center of each chicken breast half; fold chicken over cheese and secure with toothpicks. Rub Mexican seasoning over chicken. In a large skillet, brown chicken in oil on all sides. Transfer to a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until meat is no longer pink. Discard toothpicks. Yield: 2 servings.

Steak & Onions

Ingredients:
1 large onion, halved and sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1/3 cup white wine or chicken broth
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 beef tenderloin steaks (1-1/2 to 2 inches thick and 8 ounces each)

Directions:

In a large skillet, cook onion in butter over medium heat for 15-20 minutes or until onion is golden brown, stirring frequently. Stir in wine or broth and garlic. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 3-4 minutes or until liquid has evaporated. Meanwhile, combine the rosemary, salt and pepper; rub over steaks. Broil 4 in. from the heat for 7-9 minutes on each side or until meat reaches desired doneness (for medium-rare, a meat thermometer should read 145°; medium, 160°; well-done, 170°). Serve with caramelized onions. Yield: 2 servings.

Apricot Chicken

Ingredients:
1/2 cup apricot preserves
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon chicken broth or sherry
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1/2 cup salted cashews
Hot cooked rice

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Add chicken and toss to coat. Transfer to a shallow microwave-safe dish. Cover and microwave on high for 3 minutes, stirring once. Add green pepper and cashews. Cover and microwave on high for 2-4 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink, stirring once. Let stand for 3 minutes. Serve with rice. Yield: 4 servings.

Variation: Use Pork instead of Chicken

Ginger Shap Cookies with Pumpkin Dip

Ginger Snap Cookies

3/4 C shortening
1 C. brown sugar
1/4 C. molasses
1 egg
2 1/4 C. flour
2 tsp. soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves

Cream together first 4 ingredients until fluffy. Shift together dry ingredients; stir into molasses mixture. Form into small balls (or ovals for dipping). Roll in granulated sugar & place 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 for about 10 minutes. Cool slightly and remove from pan.


Pumpkin Dip

1 8oz. pkg. of cream cheese
1 small can pumpkin
2 C. powdered sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. ginger

Mix all ingredients together until creamy. Chill overnight. Serve with ginger snap cookies.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 C sugar
1 C canned pumpkin
1/2 C shortening
2 C flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. cinnamon (or pie spice)
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 C chocolate chips

Mix sugar, pumpkin, shortening well. Add the rest of the ingredients. Drop onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes.

Easy Pumpkin Cookies

(Makes 60 cookies)

1 Box Spice Cake Mix
1 Box Yellow Cake Mix
1 Large Can (29 oz.) Pumpkin
1 Bag (12oz) Chocolate Chips

Mix first three ingredients. stir in chocolate chips. Scoop spoonfuls onto cookie sheet. Bake at 350 for 10-12 minutes.

Cuban-Style Marinated Steak

1/4 C. Orange Juice
2 TBLS. Lime Juice
2 TBLS. Vegetable Oil
2 TBLS. Montreal Steak Seasoning (McCormick Grill Mates)
1 1/2 tea. Oregano Leaves
1/2 tea. Gorund Cumin

Mix all ingredients. Use to coat and marinate a 2 lbs. Sirloin Steak for 30minutes plus minutes. Grill steak and bursh marinade sauce halfway through cooking.

Bacon-Chicken Crescent Ring

Ingredients:
2 tubes (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent rolls
1 can (10 ounces) chunk white chicken, drained and flaked
1-1/2 cups (6 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese
3/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup finely chopped sweet red pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Italian salad dressing mix

Directions:

Grease a 14-in. pizza pan. Unroll crescent roll dough; separate into 16 triangles. Place wide end of one triangle 3 in. from edge of prepared pan with point overhanging edge of pan. Repeat with remaining triangles along outer edge of pan, overlapping the wide ends (dough will look like a sun when complete). Lightly press wide ends together. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Spoon over wide ends of dough. Fold points of triangles over filling and tuck under wide ends (filling will be visible). Bake at 375° for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Yield: 8 servings.

Note: This was good but I am not much of a fan of strong cheeses and the swiss was a little too strong for me.

Chicken in Lime Butter

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)


• 1/8 teaspoon salt


• 1/8 teaspoon pepper


• 2 tablespoons canola oil


• 1/4 cup butter


• 1 tablespoon lime juice


• 1/2 teaspoon dill weed


• 1/4 teaspoon minced chives

Directions:

Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, cook chicken in oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side or until a meat thermometer reaches 170°; drain. Remove and keep warm.
Add butter and lime juice to the skillet; cook and stir until butter is melted. Stir in dill and chives. Drizzle over chicken. Yield: 4 servings.

Asparagus Ham Fettuccine

Serving: 2

Ingredients:

• 4 ounces uncooked fettuccine
• 1/2 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/2 pound fully cooked ham, julienned
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (I
  
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh sage or 2 teaspoons rubbed sage (I have used dry sage and have doubled it)
  
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Cook the fettuccine according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, bring 4 cups water to a boil; add asparagus. Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Drain and immediately place in ice water; drain and set aside.
In a skillet, saute the ham, walnuts, onion, sage and pepper in oil until onion is tender. Add asparagus; cook and stir for 1 minute. Drain fettuccine; toss with ham mixture. Sprinkle with cheese.

Crispy Parm-Crusted Filet of Fish and Buttery Bowties with Peas

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
• 3 eggs
• 4 6-ounce filets of tilapia or sole
• 2 cups breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• 3/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano, divided
• 1 tablespoon thyme, finely chopped
• Zest of 2 lemons, then cut into wedges, divided
• 1 box bow tie pasta
• 6 tablespoons EVOO - Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
• 1 cup frozen peas, defrosted
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 sprigs mint, chopped
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
• Salt and ground pepper
• 1 head butter lettuce, for garnish

Yields: 4 servings

Preparation

Preheat oven 250˚F.

Set up three dishes for breading the filets: In the first, combine the flour with the Old Bay. In the second, beat the eggs with a splash of water. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup Parmigiano, thyme and lemon zest. Dip each fish filet first in the flour mixture, then the egg and finally in the breadcrumbs. Place the coated filets on to a sheet try and reserve.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add some salt and drop the pasta. Cook to al dente, according to box directions.

While the pasta is cooking, preheat a large skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons EVOO. Add the onions and garlic to the hot skillet, and cook until tender.

Preheat a large skillet with about 4 tablespoons EVOO and sauté the first two fish filets until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side. Once the first two fish filets, place them in the hot oven to keep warm while you cook up the other two.

While you are cooking up the fish, add the peas and butter to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Ladle a spoonful of some of the pasta cooking liquid to the peas, remove from heat and toss in the mint and parsley.

When the pasta is done, drain it well and return it to the pot it was cooked in. Add the peas and sauce to the cooked bow ties then season with some a bit of salt, pepper and the remaining Parmigiano.

To serve, place 1 or 2 leaves of butter lettuce inside each serving bowl then fill the lettuce cup with some buttery bowtie pasta with peas. Plate the fish on a separate large serving platter with lemon wedges alongside.

Sichuan Orange Chicken

4 Servings

1 1/2 cups of Orange Juice
1/2 cup Sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons minced or pressed garlic
1 Tablespoon fresh ginger (a little less for a milder flavor)
1/4 teaspoon hot chili flakes (a little less for a milder flavor)
1 pound chicken breast
1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil
4 Cups hot cooked white rice
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Soy Sauce

Orange Sauce: over high heat, mix orange juice, sugar, garlic, ginger, & chili flakes. Boil until reduced to 1 cup. About 10 minutes; stir often.

Meanwhile cut chicken into 1/2 inch chunks. Heat oil in a 12-inch fry pan. Add chicken and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

Add orange sauce and stir until boiling, 1 to 2 minutes.

Spoon chicken and sauce onto rice and sprinkle with green onions. Season to taste with soy sauce.

Note: Last time I made this I added sugar snap peas to the chicken. I also thickened the sauce up with some corn starch.

Herbed Pork & Potatoes

About 4 servings

1/2 cup olive oil
3 teaspoons minced fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 teaspoons dried minced onion
2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoons dried rosemary, crushed
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1-2 pounds pork tenderloin
1 pound small red potatoes, quartered

In a small bowl, combine the first 8 ingredients. Rub pork with 3/4ths of the herb mixture, place the pork in a large shallow baking pan. Toss potatoes with remaining herb mixture; place around pork.
Bake uncovered, at 375 for 40-45 minutes or until meat thermometer reads 160 and potatoes are tender. Let stand for 5 minutes before slicing pork.

Lime Cheesecake

1 ½ C. graham cracker crumbs
1 C. sugar, divided
¼ C. butter
2 packages of cream cheese (8oz. each)
1 C. sour cream
3 eggs
1 Tablespoon grated lime peel
¼ C. lime juice
2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour

Topping
1 C. sour cream
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons lime juice
Thin lime slices (for garnish)

Mix crumbs, 2 Tablespoons of sugar, and butter. Press into a 9 inch pan. Bake @ 350 until lightly brown, about 10 min. Set aside.

Beat cheese, sour cream, eggs, remaining sugar, peel juice, and flour until smooth; pour into crust. Bake @350 until center jiggles only slightly when pan is gently shaken, about 35 to 45 min. Cool.

Make topping: mix sour cream, sugar, and lime juice until well blended. Spread topping over cooled cheesecake. Cover and chill until cold, at least 4 hours or up to the next day. Top with lime slices.

Pinapple Ginger Pork Chops

4 servings

1 can (20 oz.) pineapple tidbits
1 tea. Pepper
½ tea. Ground ginger
4 bone-in pork loin chops
1 tbs. butter
½ C. orange juice
1 tbs. cornstarch
1/8 tea. Salt
¼ C. water

Drain pineapple, reserving ¼ cup juice; set aside. Combine pepper and ginger; rub over both sides of pork chops. In a skillet, brown chops in butter for 2-3 minutes on each side. Add orange juice, 1 cup of pineapple and reserved juice. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until meat is tender. Remove chops and keep warm. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and water until smooth; stir into pan juices. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Serve with pork.

Italian Sausage with Bow Ties

5 Servings

• 1 package (16 ounces) bow tie pasta
• 1 pound bulk Italian sausage
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1-1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) Italian stewed tomatoes, drained and chopped
• 1-1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• Shredded Parmesan cheese

Directions:

Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven, cook the sausage, onion, garlic and pepper flakes over medium heat for 4-5 minutes or until meat is no longer pink; drain.
Stir in the tomatoes, cream, salt and basil. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 6-8 minutes or until thickened, stirring occasionally. Drain pasta; toss with sausage mixture. Garnish with Parmesan cheese.

Onion Beef Muffin Cups

It sounds funny but it is so good. We use our left over Pot Roast for this Recipe. And I usually use 2 small onions instead of 3. I also add a little extra brown sugar for a sweeter taste.

4 Servings

• 3 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 1 boneless beef top sirloin steak (1-inch thick and 6 ounces), cut into 1/8-inch slices
• 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tube (16.3 ounces) large refrigerated flaky biscuits
• 3/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Directions:

In a large skillet, cook onions in butter over medium heat for 10-12 minutes or until very tender. Remove and keep warm. In the same skillet, cook steak for 2-3 minutes or until no longer pink.
Return onions to pan. Stir in the flour, brown sugar and salt until blended; gradually add broth. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 4-6 minutes or until thickened.
Separate biscuits; split each horizontally into three portions. Press onto the bottom and up the sides of eight ungreased muffin cups, overlapping the sides and tops. Fill each with about 2 tablespoons beef mixture.
Combine mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese; sprinkle over filling. Fold dough over completely to enclose filling. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.
Bake at 375° for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 2 minutes before removing from pan. Serve warm.

CHEESEBURGER MAC AND CHEESE

CHEESEBURGER MAC AND CHEESE

• 1 pound cavatappi (or any curly short) pasta
• 1 pound ground sirloin
• 1 tablespoon grill seasoning (about a palmful)
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium red onion, chopped
• Salt and ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 1/4 cups grated yellow cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 1/4 cups grated Swiss cheese, divided
• 3 small tomatoes, seeded and chopped
• 1 deli-style pickle, chopped

Preparation

Pre-heat oven to 400ºF.

Place a large pot of salted water over high heat and bring to a boil. Add pasta to boiling water and cook just shy of al dente, according to package directions. Drain the cooked pasta and reserve.

In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine the ground sirloin with the grill seasoning, ketchup and yellow mustard. Grab about a tablespoon of meat in your hand and roll it into a small ball. Place the mini meatballs onto a baking sheet, drizzle with 2 tablespoons of EVOO and bake until cooked through, about 15 minutes. Turn off the oven and turn on the broiler.

While the mini meatballs are in the oven, heat a large saucepot over medium-high heat with 1 turn of the pan of EVOO, about 1 tablespoon, and the butter. Cook the red onion with some salt and pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle flour over top and cook for about 1 minute. Whisk in the milk, season with salt and pepper, and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Remove sauce from heat and whisk in 1 cup of each cheese. Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce along with the baked meatballs and toss to combine. Pour everything out into a casserole dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar and Swiss cheeses.

If serving immediately, toss the mac under the broiler until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Top with the chopped tomatoes and pickles, and serve.

Ginger Carrot Soup

8 Servings

• 2 tablespoons sweet cream butter
• 2 onions, peeled and chopped
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
• 1 cup whipping cream
• Salt and white pepper
• Sour cream
• Parsley sprigs, for garnish

Directions

In a 6-quart pan, over medium high heat, add butter and onions and cook, stirring often, until onions are limp. Add broth, carrots, and ginger. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until carrots are tender when pierced.

Remove from heat and transfer to a blender. Don't fill the blender more than half way, do it in batches if you have to. Cover the blender and then hold a kitchen towel over the top of the blender*. Be careful when blending hot liquids as the mixture can spurt out of the blender. Pulse the blender to start it and then puree until smooth. Return to the pan and add cream, stir over high heat until hot. For a smoother flavor bring soup to a boil, add salt and pepper, to taste.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with dollop sour cream and parsley sprigs.

*When blending hot liquids: Remove liquid from the heat and allow to cool for at least 5 minutes. Transfer liquid to a blender or food processor and fill it no more than halfway. If using a blender, release one corner of the lid. This prevents the vacuum effect that creates heat explosions. Place a towel over the top of the machine, pulse a few times then process on high speed until smooth.

Chocolate Rolo Cookies

1 Cup Sugar
1 Cup Brown Sugar
I Cup Margarine
2 eggs
1 tsp. Vanilla
3/4 Cup cocoa
1 tsp. baking soda
2 1/2 Cups flour

Form dough over a Rolo candy. Roll in sugar.
Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes.