tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84618240060514036042024-03-21T11:57:23.976-07:00Sweet Detailsmrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-57955238957782948882013-06-18T08:29:00.001-07:002013-06-18T08:29:35.784-07:00Happy Father's Day!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Happy Father's Day to a "whopping" good dad!</div>
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My baking skills come from my mother- along with of my other talents. But luckily I am a great blend of both my parents- and I received a lot of wonderful characteristics from my dad also. My dad is an amazing person- supportive, loving, talented, and just all around awesome. Him and my mother together are a dynamic duo that I love more than anything. One thing my dad and I share is our love of chocolate- and one of his all time favorite candies are chocolate malt balls.. aka.. WHOPPERS! These lil balls of chocolatey goodness were the main attraction for my dad's Father's Day dessert and this was one heck of a cake. I used a receive from <a href="http://www.thecountrycook.net/2011/10/whopper-cake.html?m=1" target="_blank">The Country Cook</a> but changed it up a little to make it look like a picture I had seen on Pintrest. I think either way you bake it, stack it, and decorate it, it is going to be a delicious cake. I follow the cake recipe per the Country Cook's directions but make it into 2- 9 inch rounds and used what should have been the topping (whipped cream mixed with the malted chocolate milk powder) to make a creamy layer between the two cakes. Then I took your good ol' chocolate frosting and mixed some of the malted chocolate milk powered in that and covered the cake with that mixture. Before the frosting had time to get too warm (it's summer here and my house was a tad warm) or too firm I placed the malt balls all over the top of the cake and then started stacking them on the sides. I immediately placed the cake in the fridge so the malt balls would stay in place and they did. And all that made for one happy dad! He loved it, the family loved it and it's a definite repeat with our group!</div>
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Happy Father's Day to my dad and all the dads out there! Enjoy!</div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-weight: bold;">Whopper Cake</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Ingredients:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 box Milk Chocolate Cake Mix</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 1/2 cups chocolate malted milk powder, divided</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 cup water</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1/2 cup vegetable oil</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">3 eggs</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 tub (8 oz.) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 cup Whoppers malted milk balls</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Directions:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Preheat oven to 350F degrees</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Spray 13x9 baking pan with nonstick cooking spray with flour</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">In a medium bowl, combine cake mix with 3/4 cups malted milk powder.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Add in eggs, oil and water and stir until combined.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Pour batter in baking pan.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Bake for about 38-40 minutes (until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Allow cake to cool completely before making topping.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-style: italic;">For the topping</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">In a medium bowl, combine whipped topping with 3/4 cup malted milk powder.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Stir until completely incorporated and no longer grainy.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Spread topping on top of cooled cake.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Put one cup of malted milk balls into a ziploc bag and zip it up.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Pound with a rolling pin (or other hard object) to crush Whoppers.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Sprinkle finished cake with crushed malted milk balls.</span></div>
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mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-50875522164611213002013-06-14T13:40:00.000-07:002013-06-14T13:40:08.021-07:00Snickers. Does a Brownie Good!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
My mother is quite the baker herself... where do you think I get if from? But sometimes even the best bakers look elsewhere for help/guidance. My mother makes dessert to celebrate the birthdays of her coworkers. From time to time she turns to me to see what funky pin or blog recipe I've found. Of course on this occasion- I was able to deliver with some sinfully good brownie bites. Yes, I love my staple port brownie bites- but these run a very close 2nd if not tie for first. Snickers Brownie Bites from The Domestic Rebel. Don't let the name full ya- you aren't just chopping up a Snickers bar and mixing it in with the brownie mix- oh no- you are creating the essence of the Snickers bar to enhance the already gooey, chocolateyness of the brownie. The recipe makes these in a pan, but I decided to step up the presentation game and make them in to individually wrapped brownie bite cups. </div>
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Following the recipe I mad the brownie batter, poured them into my lined mini cupcake pan and let them bake up for about 15-20 minutes (time will vary depending on your brownie mix). Allow them to cool and then begin stacking on the layers of nutty, caramel goodness. The rest of the recipe I followed pretty true, you may have some leftovers but you can always make more brownies! The caramel was a little complicated to get on the brownies and I would put it on a few at at time and then add peanuts so the caramel wouldn't be hard by the time I got to the last one if I'd put it on all of them. And you do need to push the peanuts in- or they will fall off in the chocolate. Maybe next time I'll drizzle some caramel on top of the peanuts or just drizzle the chocolate on- so many ways to do it! I did not put my brownies in the fridge after adding the caramel and peanut layer, I just let them sit for a little while and they seemed to get firm enough to dip in the chocolate. And just another tip- because I did make a small pan of brownies in addition to the cups- and I poured the chocolate on before I cut them- cut them first- then dip them in chocolate! But if you are like me and you just can't wait that long, just let them sit for a while (I let them go overnight so I guess it was longer than if I'd just cut them) and cut them later- the chocolate will crack a little but believe me- taste out weighs presentation any day when you have a yummy treat!</div>
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The end of the recipe says will store up to 2 days in an airtight container- don't worry about them going bad- they won't last that long! The email from my mom the next morning at work is proof... I made her 3 dozen (not all were Snickers topped), for 18 people....</div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">"Hey Riz - It is only <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1203329053" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">8:58am</span></span> and there is only 3 desserts left that you made. Rave reviews, especially about the ones with the snickers type top. Thank you, but next time I better order double. Love Ya Mom"</span></span></div>
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Because of nut sensitivities now and days- I made some brownie cups- minus the Snickers topping. When I took all the brownie cups out of the oven I immediately placed caramel filled Hershey Kisses on top so they would melt onto the brownie- at least they were getting some caramel treat with their brownie- but I'm pretty sure nut sensitive or not- everyone had one of each!</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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<strong>Snickers Brownie Bites from </strong><a href="http://thedomesticrebel.com/2012/11/06/snickers-brownie-bites/">The Domestic Rebel</a></div>
1 box brownie mix, plus ingredients on back of box<br />1 jar marshmallow fluff<br />1 cup smooth peanut butter<br />1 pkg Kraft caramels, unwrapped<br />1 Tbsp heavy cream<br />1 & 1/4 cup dry roasted peanuts<br />1/2 pkg chocolate Candiquik or milk chocolate almond bark<br />
1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 13×9″ baking pan with foil and spray lightly with cooking spray. Prepare your brownie mix according to package directions and pour into the prepared pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean per the directions on the package. Cool the brownies completely.<br />2. In a medium bowl, combine the marshmallow fluff + the smooth peanut butter with a rubber spatula or hand mixer until blended. Spread the fluff mixture on top of the cooled brownies in an even layer.<br />3. Microwave the unwrapped caramels in a medium bowl with a splash of heavy cream for 1 minute. Stir, then heat for an additional 30 seconds or until melted and smooth. Spread the caramel layer on top of the fluff nougat layer evenly. Immediately sprinkle on the peanuts and press them gently into the caramel. Pop the brownies in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set.<br />4. Melt the Candiquik according to package directions until smooth. Using a sharp knife sprayed with cooking spray, cut the brownies into 1″-2″ sized squares. Dip the tops of the squares in the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on a foil-lined baking sheet to set. Repeat until all the bites have been coated.<br />5. Store the bites airtight, at room temperature, up to 2 days.<br />
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mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-17758848212631576122013-06-11T16:36:00.001-07:002013-06-11T16:36:48.168-07:00Chocolate Brownie Cake<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); color: #909090; font-family: HelveticaNeue-Light; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; white-space: nowrap;">If you haven't already been able to figure out, I am a chocoholic. I admit it and I do nothing to break myself of the addiction. Therefore any mouth watering chocolate recipe I find is bound to be on my TO DO... SOON list. And this one was a delicious adventure. As you can see from the picture the outside is covered in chocolate chips and chocolate frosting... but wait.. it gets better! Wedged between two moist chocolate cake layers is a chewy, fudgy brownie layer! </span><br />
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Best piece of advice- bake the brownie layer with some wax paper or foil in the pan and you can lift it out in one piece as opposed to trying to flip it out of the pan. The brownie is harder to keep together than the cake. But then again if you do have some cracks or spaces- fill it in with frosting! Everyone- well most people- love frosting so you can't go wrong and they will be too far on their way to chocolate coma to notice a few fill in areas!<br />
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This is a repeat in my book! Enjoy<br />
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); color: #909090; font-family: HelveticaNeue-Light; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; white-space: nowrap;"></span><br />
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); color: #909090; font-family: HelveticaNeue-Light; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; white-space: nowrap;"></span><br />
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); color: #909090; font-family: HelveticaNeue-Light; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://blog.babygizmo.com/2012/03/ultimate-death-by-chocolate-brownie-cake/">Ultimate Death by Chocolate Brownie Cake</a></span><br />
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mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-65039779515144849912013-06-04T16:45:00.001-07:002013-06-04T16:49:43.697-07:00The "CHERPUMPLE"About a year ago I stumbled upon an article about a hybrid dessert that brings together even the most devote Pie or Cake Lovers. The "Cherpumple" or "Piecaken" is a crazy combination of, you guessed it, pie and cake- but of course this cant just be one layer- oh no- it must be three different layers of pie and cake to be a true "Cherpumple". Traditionally (if you can even use this word to describe it) this dessert consists of cherry pie in chocolate cake, pumpkin pie in spice cake, and apple pie in vanilla cake all coated in a heavy layer of vanilla frosting! This is the true "TURDUCKEN" of the dessert world!<br />
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Of course this challenge is one I could not pass up! Found the recipe, bought the ingredients and set my oven to bake! The process seems relatively easy- until the step of actually putting the pie into the cake. You bake the pies (simple enough), then you are suppose to remove them from their pans without breaking them- mission failed. So to avoid any further issues, I took the easy road and just flipped them over upside down into the cake pans- it seemed to all work pretty well. And note- if you add too much cake batter make sure to bake with a sheet pan under your cake pans- the batter may spill over the edge! With the pies baked into the cake- then came the art of stacking. I do not pride myself on my cake building or decorating technique so these next two steps were nail biters. Cakes all stacked I placed them in the fridge and went to sleep. I thought for sure I would see a crumbled pie/cake mess when I awoke in the morning to frost this beast. To my surprise- the cake layers were still intact and I proceeded to frost.. and frost.. and frost some more. The end result was a mile high marshmallow looking dessert that is one big conversation starter. <br />
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I made this for a holiday party at work- it was the gift that just kept giving! Pie lovers and Cake lovers alike loved the sweet and salty, and unexpected delight they received from this dessert. I can't even begin to explain the look I got when explaining this to people- make one and you'll know what I'm talking about. But it was a hit! Managed to slice some very presentable pieces for a while until I cut through about 2/3 of it, then- TIMBER- I lost the top half of this dessert! But it was pretty while it lasted- and still tasted delicious!<br />
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If you ever want a fun challenge, and an attention grabber- bake this treat up! See the link for photos of other Cherpumples, the recipe and a how to video!<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="http://www.charlesphoenix.com/2010/10/cherpumple-monster-pie-cake-new-test-kitchen-video/" target="_blank">Charles Phoenix- Cherpumple</a><br />
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mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-21797990392489175142013-06-03T16:42:00.000-07:002013-06-03T16:44:01.319-07:00Kitchen Re-doBeing a homeowner your house is alway evolving. Decorations change seasonally, the yard always needs refreshing, of course you have to clean, clean and clean some more, and occasionaly you get the crazy idea to put that wish list into action and dramatically change your living space. After growing up in a home with a contractor for a father, I lived in a constantly revolving space. But a beautiful space none the less. There were smaller projects as I grew up but when I was in college my dad decided to rip out the kitchen and dining room- basically half the house and remodel it- and 2+ years later my mom has an amazing kitchen, my dad has the staircase he always wanted and they have a delightfully large dinning room to entertain in. Along with other upgrades my parents house is amazing. So of course being a product of my enviroment, and now married, I still live in a constantly changing space. Our biggest project to date would have to be our kitchen upgrade. It did not take nearly the time or budget, as my parents- however it was an amazing transformation and such a big change that makes me happy my husband is so handy. <br />
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I didn't get a great before of the kitchen because really from conception of the idea to the acutal start of the process the picture below is basically what I came home to one day after work. I knew my dishwasher had been sold, but little did I know while at work the next day- my fridge, stove/oven, and microwave had also been sold. That was my husband's cue to begin staining the cabinets. One small detail- we hadn't even purchased new appliances- and of course- I had an event I needed to bake for in the coming week. At 8pm at night we ventured down to Sears and picked out all new appliances. Luckily my stove/oven was in stock- we picked that up the next day. Once the cabinets were stained around it that went in and later that week I put it to work- luckily it was amazing. Got to the end of the week- cabinets were almost all stained and we were waiting on the appliances. I left town to my dad and husband installing the microwave and my dishwasher and fridge in the garage. Well my husband busted his butt and got the rest of the cabinets done- appliances in and I came home to a beautiful "new" kitchen. One of which I am very proud to bake in once again!<br />
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On to the next baking adventure!<br />
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mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-57831984724763556932013-06-02T11:25:00.001-07:002013-06-04T16:52:13.502-07:00Happy birthday Hubs!Over the past two days I've been celebrating my wonderful husband. He is one if the best guys in the world. He is an amazing friend, worker, brother, son, nephew, grandson and husband. He's part of the reason I took up my blog again. He's very supportive of just about anything I do and he understand what baking does for me. Now if I can just find a way to make it into a profitable hobby then we are in business, literally. But another blog for another time! <br />
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Happy Birthday Clay! 27 years young! We celebrated with family and friends and my task is always to come up with a fun birthday cake for him. Since he isn't a huge chocolate lover, but he can never say no to an Oreo, I went with a Oreo Cookies and Cream cake.. SO GOOD! The recipe was easy and it turned out delicious- only one hitch- didn't read the warning on the bottom of the recipe until it was too late. When you make the frosting for this recipe- you really can't use non-fat, reduced fat, etc cream cheese or whipped cream- totally makes for runny frosting! But I got a little creative with the Oreos and no one really minds the look of something when it's a tasty, sugary treat- so still a success in my book! I didn't get a picture of this creation ( and it definitely was not as pretty as the picture on the blog) , but here is the recipe- <a href="http://veronicascornucopia.com/2010/07/22/oreo-cookie-or-cookies-n-cream-cake/">Cookies-N-Cream Cake</a>. If you have an Oreo lover in your midst- you will score some major brownie points with this cake. Just remember - read the entire recipe AND directions before starting ;) <br />
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Once again.. Happy Birthday Clay! I love you!mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-24333523635200962592013-05-29T20:59:00.001-07:002013-05-30T15:15:56.995-07:00Salty and Sweet<br />
Pinterest strikes again! Saw this creative creation and couldn't help but try it out... Yup it was a hit! I do love that I have such brave coworkers who are wiling to try all my baking ventures and they make sure to let me know their opinions. Who can not like something that satisfies your sweet and savory taste buds... Right up there with chocolate covered bacon... Well maybe ( but what an beat bacon.. I mean come on.. It's BACON)! Reviews were positive and this will probably be a repeater. Not only did they love it, but it was super easy! Next time ill have to step it up and do brownies and caramel from scratch but figured best to go with the recipe for the first time through. I'll let you know how my attempt to really "make it my own" goes. You can find the recipe I used here http://recipesweet.net/salted-pretzel-caramel-brownies/ and make yourself up a yummy treat! Bake on friends! <br />
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I have also began following baking bloggers and food groups on Facebook. Today I found an exciting article from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lovewithfood?hc_location=stream" target="_blank">Love With Food</a> featuring Hybrid Desserts. Immediately my mind clicked- "Challenge Accepted" (yes I'm a "How I Met Your Mother" fan). These desserts are wondeful combinations of some of my favorites- and I'm so excited to try them. Here is the article from BuzzFeed <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/arielknutson/hybrid-desserts-that-will-blow-your-mind">http://www.buzzfeed.com/arielknutson/hybrid-desserts-that-will-blow-your-mind</a>. And I have a feeling these will really "blow your mind." <br />
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Stay tuned for updates on my adventures in baking these two-in-one sweet treats!mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-76118069817186543252013-05-28T13:46:00.000-07:002013-05-29T11:36:30.081-07:00Homemade With LoveIt has been awhile since I have udpated! Things got crazy, but I'm going to attempt to keep up! Here's an update from where I left off- got a promotion (hence my lack of attention to this blog)- ended up coordinating 20+ events over 3 days during one of the world's largest farm equipment shows (yes- I work for a FARM EQUIPMENT show- lol). I will write about my experiences more in my pending blog post about my "day job". Moving on, as you know from previous posts- my sister got engaged! So wedding planning also stepped up about the time of my promotion and the show. I posted about a couple of the desserts I would be baking for her big day and as you can see her big day has come and gone! Next thing I know it's May 2013- waaayy to long since my last post- what can I say- I'm a work in progress.<br />
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I know what your thinking- stop with the excuses and get to the goods... here we go... <br />
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One word to describe this wedding event- FANTASTIC! From the food, to the dress, to the ceremony and everything in between was simply wonderful. I was so honored to be a part of my sisters big day! Now, no wedding is complete without its own set of issues, but nothing derailed this bride and groom from having a rocking party. <br />
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Friday kicked off the festivities with brunch at Custom House in Avila Beach, CA with mom and mom's best friend/the wedding coordinator extraordinaire, and of course the beautiful bride. And the day was complete with a short/sweet ceremony rehearsal, taco bar courtesy of Two Cooks (SLO, CA) and the meeting of two families- that blended perfectly! <br />
Saturday began with wedding venue set up (Historic Jack House, SLO, CA), hair and make up and EARLY arrival to the wedding site (what weddings do you know that they wedding party actually arrives EARLY and the wedding starts on time?). With all the set up done, the guests arrival, a successful cocktail hour, and bridal party in place, my sister made her way down the aisle to her awaiting groom and they were married in a very personal but oh so light hearted ceremony courtesy of my uncle. Pictures were snapped and the party officially began. Another delightful meal by Two Cooks (homemade bread and pasta- out of this world) followed by toasts and it was time for dancing and my favorite part DESSERT! Ten different desserts, over 1000 pieces, and 180 sweet tooth wedding guests later- the dessert buffet was a success! I was in awe of all the compliments- It is always so inspiring to have positive feedback! With all the desserts consumed or packed away in boxes to be eaten later (dessert and wedding favors- two for one!) and the music coming to an end (gotta love city ordinances), there was one oh so happy bride and groom- and one very very proud little sister! Congrats again, Steph and Adam! And thank you for letting me be a part of your big day!<br />
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Dessert Menu:<br />
Lemon Bars<br />
Chocolate Chip Cookies<br />
Mini Pies (assorted jam fillings)<br />
Port Wine Brownies (topped with dark chocolate kiss dipped in port)<br />
Guinness Chocolate Cake Pops<br />
Mini Cheesecakes (caramel, chocolate and fresh strawberries for toppings)<br />
Salted Chocolate Carmel Shortbread Bars ("Fancy Twix")<br />
S'more Cream Puffs<br />
Cake Batter Rice Crisipies<br />
Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies<br />
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yummy desserts in place and ready to go... only picture i was able to get before wedding guests swarmed the table.. guess they really were a hit!</div>
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they survived the chair dance.. good thing they have strong friends.. it was a long song</div>
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a happy bride and MOH.. funny back story about our dresses- and no I was not trying to upstage the bride by wearing white at her rehearsal- just doing the bride a favor and giving her my dress so she felt comfortable.. and she ended up looking better in my dress anyway.. </div>
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framed menus... there was also one for the extensive wine selection that was available- nice touch on the signature cocktails</div>
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baking supplies shopping trip.. yes i got some interesting looks at checkout</div>
mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-30553980473430730922012-09-10T21:17:00.001-07:002012-09-10T21:17:30.179-07:00Scrumptious SconesI had some fruit that I definitely wasn't going to eat before it went bad and didn't want to just throw away, so why not take it as a baking opportunity. I started out making your basic blueberry scone but decided to jazz it up with some orange zest and a little orange juice. Then took the same recipe but used strawberries and more orange zest and juice to make a yummy new version of my original scone recipe. Both turned out to be a pretty delicious treat and were gobbled up the following morning at work. I can't remember where the recipe came from but I'm thinking just using it as a base and adding whatever fruit you may like, or have on hand would make a pretty tasty treat! <br />
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"Blueberry Scones"<br />
3/4 cup flour<br />
3/4 sugar<br />
1 tbsp + 1 tsp baking powder<br />
1tsp salt<br />
1/3 cup shortening<br />
2tbsp cold butter<br />
1 cup blueberries ( or mix it up and add what ya want!)<br />
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Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. <br />
Cut in shortening and butter to make a course meal. <br />
Stir in blueberries (or any fruit). <br />
Beat together milk and eggs then add to mixture.<br />
Combine all ingredients, gather up the dough with floured hands (it's pretty sticky) and pat out to 1/2 thickness on a floured surface. <br />
Cut dough with a 2 1/2 cutter (or in any shape you want) and place on cookie sheet. <br />
Bake at 425 for 10 minutes or until golden brown. <br />
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And enjoy!<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Efu1ksBJU3RbDXNkcBRXEbS-B9WAeEYcPoUZte7olS_uLK0qWwQc3rapuGN5YwQtChPuz_kxN2zwQs4z6nLFF4GG8Uzea7AI5JSYk_txDA4SA8vp_J5foRAXL8BN3sGGvdDVoBfpQFk/s640/blogger-image-882553910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Efu1ksBJU3RbDXNkcBRXEbS-B9WAeEYcPoUZte7olS_uLK0qWwQc3rapuGN5YwQtChPuz_kxN2zwQs4z6nLFF4GG8Uzea7AI5JSYk_txDA4SA8vp_J5foRAXL8BN3sGGvdDVoBfpQFk/s640/blogger-image-882553910.jpg" /></a></div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-73837406594517100752012-08-31T14:35:00.001-07:002012-09-10T21:40:14.131-07:00Chocolate Chips, Oreos, and Brownies.. Oh My!Being a chocolate lover, three of my favorite things have to be a good homemade chocolate chip cookie, Oreo's in milk, and fudge brownies. This dessert manages to combine all three and it is a total hit! With or with out extra fudge sauce, ice cream; warm or cold, these <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/recipes/new-recipes/ultimate-chocolate-chip-cookie-n-oreo-fudge-brownie-bar.html">Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie n' Oreo Fudge Brownie Bars</a> is one dessert is defintely worth the effort and the wait! It has a process to it, and it takes a while in the oven, but if you are looking for the most delicious guilty pleasure ever, something to use all those extra/activity points on, or just some comfort junk food, get baking! <br />
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I mostly followed the recipe from the link above, have yet to try adding the fudge sauce in the brownie mix and even without it they are still an oooey-gooey mess that you just want to eat the whole pan! Probably the fastest I have every seend a dessert go at work and trying in on the family this weekend but I'm gonna assume it will probably go over with a big hit with them.<br />
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ENJOY!<br />
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<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2K1deef0hFuVu5F4Bbh4UKzFK5DF_M2IvewB0NcbKoDvpLgPYCFrNYVaeTvbbfueVk29fnqmX-QiM49klTA7QTG-79fg9xtRRmJUbxp2UF3NZ7A53cywGYwPRyTQEWcR1vJsVd_WEnss/s640/blogger-image-1779664974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2K1deef0hFuVu5F4Bbh4UKzFK5DF_M2IvewB0NcbKoDvpLgPYCFrNYVaeTvbbfueVk29fnqmX-QiM49klTA7QTG-79fg9xtRRmJUbxp2UF3NZ7A53cywGYwPRyTQEWcR1vJsVd_WEnss/s640/blogger-image-1779664974.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbeLQnDSApepVIvtDMThX8ICxOEPa0E__Xt69Z7-ZfBZgCPtqV191duK1ZwisHUINI3zhbqVtoSZia4O_u3fRHO8EjO3ZAhaSfs1M7uOtWzq-varox7NbhC-Mo2E2GQYYDN6dKBAaOsao/s640/blogger-image-647639053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbeLQnDSApepVIvtDMThX8ICxOEPa0E__Xt69Z7-ZfBZgCPtqV191duK1ZwisHUINI3zhbqVtoSZia4O_u3fRHO8EjO3ZAhaSfs1M7uOtWzq-varox7NbhC-Mo2E2GQYYDN6dKBAaOsao/s640/blogger-image-647639053.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3Vd2JONVs4bZax5gOIj0WE1ZUsDsM7x6qf5KswzanG4XFyyHZXXwstin6ZQLkv3cFKwX-QiYpCefBSNNPZaSsLy6wMVCvkDkgLZO0MIF-amb1x1vUQAWVSCCpQGIjwLX7MBYDtHJGeE/s640/blogger-image--1141541291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3Vd2JONVs4bZax5gOIj0WE1ZUsDsM7x6qf5KswzanG4XFyyHZXXwstin6ZQLkv3cFKwX-QiYpCefBSNNPZaSsLy6wMVCvkDkgLZO0MIF-amb1x1vUQAWVSCCpQGIjwLX7MBYDtHJGeE/s640/blogger-image--1141541291.jpg" /></a></div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-71708210381998113452012-08-22T20:33:00.001-07:002012-08-22T20:33:03.671-07:00Mini goodness!I love bite size desserts! They are so easy to eat and what's better than a convenient sweet treat!? So here we go with another treat for my sister's upcoming nuptials. <br />
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Mini Cheesecakes! <br />
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I got the recipe from a book call "Petite Sweets" by Beatrice Ojakangas. My mouth was watering just looking through this book but when I turned the page to her mini cheesecakes I knew it was something I needed to try. And I just happened to order a mini cheesecake pan to go with it! Match made in heaven, yes?! <br />
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I altered the recipe some. I used a dessert wine from one of our favorite recipes for the light rum or liqueur and made my own graham cracker crust from another cheesecake recipe. I found that 1 pkg of graham crackers (about 9 sheets) chopped fine in a food processor mixed with an 1/8 of a cup (used 1/2 my 1/4 measuring cup) of sugar and 4 tbsp melted butter all mixed together makes a pretty good crust. I used a heaping tbsp for each crust packed in the bottom of each cup in the pan. After making my cheesecake base I used about 2 scoops of my small dough scooper in each cup. After they bake up, and cool off some, they are so easy to take out of the pan with the removable bottoms and then load up the pan again. This recipe yields about 18 mini cheesecakes in the mini cheesecake pan! I really recommend purchasing one. I topped mine with carmel and chocolate ganache, but go topping crazy! And ENJOY! <div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUnXhHUJHN9STIZOOQlpYY3mF6Deia4ELFSW2BxAqETjDqRo6XWxpDAjqjMLlc7AmwgtujeEea7JZIxGzhrPOEQ88kPAbEtQ5wG5KLRRm9XuacjlVUP1rEKngfwRRd2_oQTxeKSpMfObs/s640/blogger-image-740645043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUnXhHUJHN9STIZOOQlpYY3mF6Deia4ELFSW2BxAqETjDqRo6XWxpDAjqjMLlc7AmwgtujeEea7JZIxGzhrPOEQ88kPAbEtQ5wG5KLRRm9XuacjlVUP1rEKngfwRRd2_oQTxeKSpMfObs/s640/blogger-image-740645043.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQo1s0SJ8OI2JWTABQyS7WEjaqjXVSJdkIeAiHl3rimVasA6GjA14C37TYWEan2dWfYPAN0tkICQe5UWO6vxTZLgzNHaGWjmWglACyAkvz23jXWWQ4QMe2aQDWtq6QF37EU6uzxBKnMg/s640/blogger-image-295070389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQo1s0SJ8OI2JWTABQyS7WEjaqjXVSJdkIeAiHl3rimVasA6GjA14C37TYWEan2dWfYPAN0tkICQe5UWO6vxTZLgzNHaGWjmWglACyAkvz23jXWWQ4QMe2aQDWtq6QF37EU6uzxBKnMg/s640/blogger-image-295070389.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qdrVwTWoXTr9hjOqQaPpN5d0M1ScFExWT1NWXdAEGvJ7LQs3fd9dENxjKjI3BQ8nmTHZHGuCglKQ0OO6eU33GWCoLNmafa49zSSgJ7rXb4EJd2BEyVfY1Pkmpv8csVU4HauOvxoLf2E/s640/blogger-image--845322169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3qdrVwTWoXTr9hjOqQaPpN5d0M1ScFExWT1NWXdAEGvJ7LQs3fd9dENxjKjI3BQ8nmTHZHGuCglKQ0OO6eU33GWCoLNmafa49zSSgJ7rXb4EJd2BEyVfY1Pkmpv8csVU4HauOvxoLf2E/s640/blogger-image--845322169.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOREo_pxowEIddw9LI6JGWngiXGB4aSq4N__FHNcNPEHv3s10eoGJWH1vGbFKFlen5IrAjGB340xSQfFOumV18HnczE7RNyyBkQdxAXyroe_te7A-rLc4c6lbISg6E4nS1QauBt541NHU/s640/blogger-image-261364631.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOREo_pxowEIddw9LI6JGWngiXGB4aSq4N__FHNcNPEHv3s10eoGJWH1vGbFKFlen5IrAjGB340xSQfFOumV18HnczE7RNyyBkQdxAXyroe_te7A-rLc4c6lbISg6E4nS1QauBt541NHU/s640/blogger-image-261364631.jpg" /></a></div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-36035622544879502632012-08-17T11:54:00.000-07:002012-08-17T11:54:15.336-07:00Brownies for the Wine LoverNever thought I would be one who would enjoy wine, but after a few quality trips to the California Central Coast, I am in love! It is always fun to strike up a conversation with the servers in the tasting rooms and on more than one occasion the discussion leads to food. Not just food and wine pairrings but how to cooke with wine beyond just drinking it will preparing your meal. We all know of some of the norms when it comes to cooking with wine, but who thinks to bake with wine that often?<br />
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One tasting room server shared an excellent recipe for some of the most moist, rich brownies you will ever have but so easy to make. Take your store bought brownie mix, one that you have to add water and oil to (most you do but there are the occasional odd ones that ask for just oil or just water). Instead of addding water, add the equal amount of your favorite port wine (I always add an extra splash). Do everything else according to the package. You can even drop in some dark chocolate chips after the batter is in the pan, just a little extra chocolate kick. <br />
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Of course here is another wedding treat to add to the list. Before my sister began her current career in the world of tech PR, she worked in the wine industry, and her and her future husband are wine lovers. So wedding treat #3....<br />
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I did these in a mini muffin pan to create simple brownie bites and added a bittersweet chocolate drop in the center. If you serve these from a regular pan top the warm brownies with some ice cream and pour a little of the port over the top... Mmmm<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhak9UDHVMMbTmjA1hUbHPK3BprlXjyEDSsl4Bu_Wf0-N-npH3TsmIsL5OgENTA2oquyK_mIlkAisH-woW_ctcZhGuJEDFd2NIiLDLXVA6doT1dPIZr4R9TsWfJ-4xe0m9qJ4rMXLKMxTs/s640/blogger-image-663122097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhak9UDHVMMbTmjA1hUbHPK3BprlXjyEDSsl4Bu_Wf0-N-npH3TsmIsL5OgENTA2oquyK_mIlkAisH-woW_ctcZhGuJEDFd2NIiLDLXVA6doT1dPIZr4R9TsWfJ-4xe0m9qJ4rMXLKMxTs/s640/blogger-image-663122097.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiegRu2AC89RI010P8LgR01xhIKKn55PEzij9YVpf-DmPe_q0kEAthE5fE6cGDVyueV5XWDz4E5YFU5K3hXVe2JzLN75tT75VXJSAXuePUycCT4G9E6hOXRGKadHSOrh33ZAnEKYQ1_YGs/s640/blogger-image-336510477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiegRu2AC89RI010P8LgR01xhIKKn55PEzij9YVpf-DmPe_q0kEAthE5fE6cGDVyueV5XWDz4E5YFU5K3hXVe2JzLN75tT75VXJSAXuePUycCT4G9E6hOXRGKadHSOrh33ZAnEKYQ1_YGs/s640/blogger-image-336510477.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiloDy4ZG4wGKhw3FyJY9AwqwQjYwNDeaUSsqEo-AMt6dEpb9S6ejCTToRpmdhdEy3ZxnDG8M4o2usm7aRDpjBQHGj7Xzlf3ahmZkgIyE7r3ZhGggL3w9z7gip5ARLmcZitexr90DIf5hI/s640/blogger-image-1893429522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiloDy4ZG4wGKhw3FyJY9AwqwQjYwNDeaUSsqEo-AMt6dEpb9S6ejCTToRpmdhdEy3ZxnDG8M4o2usm7aRDpjBQHGj7Xzlf3ahmZkgIyE7r3ZhGggL3w9z7gip5ARLmcZitexr90DIf5hI/s640/blogger-image-1893429522.jpg" /></a></div>
mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-49604019352399119652012-08-15T09:02:00.001-07:002012-08-15T09:02:37.842-07:00Happy Birthday Julia!Happy 100th Birthday <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julia_Child">Julia Child!</a><br />
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<a class="image" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Julia_Child_restore.jpg"><img alt="" height="488" src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fe/Julia_Child_restore.jpg/220px-Julia_Child_restore.jpg" width="220" /></a><br />
Courtesy of Wikipedia<br />
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Grab a cook book and get cookin! Author of some tasty culinary collections and a true original celebrity chef, this women has inspired so many in the culinary field. To celebrate I'll definitely be looking to add to my collection of culinary literature and purchases a cook book, or volume of her works and see what fun can come from it! You don't have to be the best trained cook to make good food, just have to be willing to take the first step and try and see what happens! mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-32996541920473123782012-08-10T11:16:00.003-07:002012-08-10T11:20:29.105-07:00National S'more DayYup, that's right, it is <a href="http://www.delish.com/food/recalls-reviews/national-smores-day-2012">National S'more Day</a>! And one interesting request from my sister sent me on a s'more search. In discussing treats for my sister's wedding and seeing what she would want she presented me with the task of some type of s'more treat. And boy did I find some good treats. However my favorite so far has to be an updated, less smoke or sticky, verision of the s'more... the <a href="http://www.aprettylifeinthesuburbs.com/2012/07/smore-cream-puffs.html">S'more Cream Puff</a>.<br />
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I was a little aprehensive about making my own cream puffs, but this is probably one of the easier treats I've ever made. (Note: took them out of the oven at 20 minutes and they deflated a little so will be leaving them in a little longer next time). Even with just the plain cream puff you have a world of filling/topping options to choose from, but these are S'more Cream Puffs so all we need is a little marshmellow cream, and some decadent chocolate ganache. You can choose to make your own <a href="http://www.cinnamonspiceandeverythingnice.com/homemade-marshmallow-fluff-chocolate-too/">marshmellow fluff</a> or go with store bought (for my first time, I went with store bought, gonna try going all out next time). The chocolate ganache with the receipe is amazing and plenitful, so have some extra treats to put it on, or load those cream puffs up! Also contemplaiting added some graham crackers crumbs somewhere just to get that full effect, but they are delicious as is. Enjoy!<br />
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<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0fTQwUHjovWJgbfyCUkYvSSrFC6Qzc7zV8epEO6EHfhAbWNJy9qA1rz5I54mXkhI25m52i7eWETmQxG-bh9C_GxB_SJbphiCO0SF3f_sAF8R8_zPsQCizN2L0usWdNdRAJX_U97kbLQ/s640/blogger-image--2045735976.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH0fTQwUHjovWJgbfyCUkYvSSrFC6Qzc7zV8epEO6EHfhAbWNJy9qA1rz5I54mXkhI25m52i7eWETmQxG-bh9C_GxB_SJbphiCO0SF3f_sAF8R8_zPsQCizN2L0usWdNdRAJX_U97kbLQ/s640/blogger-image--2045735976.jpg" /></a></div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-29782511231733304792012-08-09T11:59:00.001-07:002012-08-09T13:54:10.741-07:00Classy TwixTrying to be more adventurous, I found the recipe for <a href="http://annies-eats.com/2011/09/09/salted-caramel-chocolate-shortbread-bars/">Salted Caramel Shortbread Bars</a> courtesy of Annie's Eats and figured why not!? Always wanted to make my own caramel ( definitely beats unwrapping all those little ones) and the recipe seemed like a pretty basic yet delicious mix of chocolate and caramel with a salty shortbread layer and little sprinkle of sea salt to cut through all the sugary sweetness. Turns out they were a big hit! My sister just happens to be a huge fan so.. <br />
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Wedding dessert #2..<br />
I love the idea of an upgraded Twix Bar! So here it is. Starting with the shortbread layer which I whipped up in my food processor and baked. Pour on all that chewy yummy caramel (FYI you'll be stirring for a while, but it's worth it) and then a creamy chocolate layer ! Soo good! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrI62ZNZ5iukC_ZDvZwMzfkcvCalQoptRkdPXkNP3NeKBB_oDYaUq2awyU_bZuBd7LWMwY0WaCKloqkFQ9acdhzvbIaFatzZPHh_ZdjNpsuzxoFvCouP2JCsP2kgv-pCaNAxBqOxv1ls/s640/blogger-image--1113863323.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrI62ZNZ5iukC_ZDvZwMzfkcvCalQoptRkdPXkNP3NeKBB_oDYaUq2awyU_bZuBd7LWMwY0WaCKloqkFQ9acdhzvbIaFatzZPHh_ZdjNpsuzxoFvCouP2JCsP2kgv-pCaNAxBqOxv1ls/s640/blogger-image--1113863323.jpg" /></a></div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-74870419277912736702012-08-05T16:00:00.001-07:002012-08-09T13:54:37.288-07:00When Life Gives You Lemons......Make Lemon Bars! <br />
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In preparation for my sister's wedding (next May) we are doing a little dessert taste test. Since my sister is not a fan of your traditional wedding cake, and she knows giving me a task to prepare and assist in her big day will keep me preoccupied (for a while) she wants an array of desserts for her guests to pick from. My task: makes all those desserts! My reaction of assigned task: YES! Get to use all my baking gadgets, purchase some new ones (mini cheesecake pan adventure to come) and bake lots of fun stuff! <br />
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So...<br />
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Item 1: Aunt Paula's Lemon Bars<br />
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My beautiful aunt provided her recipe for some tangy sweet lemon bars that are fun to make and even better to eat! A shortbread crust with some added lemon zest makes a nice base for the chewy sugary lemony filling and dusted with powder sugar takes you back to a warm summer day with a big ol glass of lemonade! And they preset wonderfully! These will make a wonderful treat for a great wedding! <br />
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More wedding test treats to come! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAI6dz9Uc-8KuwX1zRiIuwNxEOpbcbWWjxjAHj6cTeaGqSvWRLe4GbTvIEsujceigSVAaosSlLV_60RrAYCio6P2IOSinOtyeWWEavnJ3prquss3q92VWmKaAXmcjo3jH1CBHzUkJl5A8/s640/blogger-image--1402184416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAI6dz9Uc-8KuwX1zRiIuwNxEOpbcbWWjxjAHj6cTeaGqSvWRLe4GbTvIEsujceigSVAaosSlLV_60RrAYCio6P2IOSinOtyeWWEavnJ3prquss3q92VWmKaAXmcjo3jH1CBHzUkJl5A8/s640/blogger-image--1402184416.jpg" /></a></div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-1388481078095853202012-08-01T09:20:00.001-07:002012-08-01T09:23:19.799-07:00Chocoholics Beware<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am a HUGE chocoholic and these cupcakes definitely satisfy a BIG chocolate craving! <a href="http://www.kevinandamanda.com/recipes/dessert/brownie-batter-chocolate-fudge-cupcakes.html">Kevin & Amanda's Brownie Batter Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes</a> are one of my best chocolate finds yet! <br />
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Here is why:<br />
First, this cupcake can take two days to make with the first step freezing the yummy, gooey, brownie batter center. You know the process is always going to make a sweet result Totally worth it!<br />
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Second, I get to use two of my favorite kitchen gadgets... Cherry, my beautifully red Kitchen Aid Mixer and my new food processor. <br />
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Third, the end result is amazingly chocolate and who can say no to that!<br />
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I had a few of the yummy centers left over and I could eat those by themselves, as well as eating the cupcake without the icing is like a party in your mouth! The icing just puts you into a chcolate coma! The recipe did call for the Unsweetened Cocoa "Special Dark" however I only had the regular kind and it was still delicious. Probably more of a milk chcolate flavor than a rich dark chocolate, so I'm definitely going to have to try these ones again.. soon!<br />
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I think I hear one callin my name... MMM!<br />
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<br />mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-88095051203905678672012-07-29T14:19:00.001-07:002012-08-05T16:08:12.393-07:00College LoveEight years ago I was introduced to an amazing girl that would become my freshmen roommate, best friend, and practically another sister (minus the DNA connection). Last month I had to honor of being a bridesmaid and supporting her when she was saying "I do" to her college sweetheart. Michelle and Lance are an adorable couple and I was so happy not only to be her bridesmaid but also to contribute to her wedding by baking all her favors! My mom helped by making a ton of her specialty chocolate chip cookies (M's favorite) and I contributed my grandmother's rocky road (our go to sweet for those crazy all nighters), some yummy Guinness chocolate cake balls (they met in Ireland) and bite size strawberry pies ( she loves strawberry). <br />
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It was a beautiful wedding! Lance and Michelle hosted a fabulous celebration and every part of it reflected them. The ceremony in the chapel of the school where they graduated from, a sparkly reception with a delicious selection of food and sweets, the Molly Dog Lounge to enjoy some drinks (Molly is their lil pup), and a fun photo booth! It was a blast! <br />
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Congrats M and Lance! I love you both too much! <br />
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</div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-5091228322284730442012-07-26T13:19:00.001-07:002012-07-26T13:23:30.175-07:00Cupcakes of all flavorsFound this website through Pintrest once again! My philosophy with Pintrest: Pin it, Make it, Share it! My coworkers loved this in cupcake form and I even made the Gunniess cupcakes into chocolate covered cake balls for my friends wedding. I'll post more about that wedding later. For the wedding i mentioned in my first post I used the recipes for the lemon, peanut butter and red velvet cupcakes to make those yummy cake pops. Really in cupcake, cake ball, cake pop or just your normal cake form these recipes are delicious. I can't wait to try all of them! <br />
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<a href="http://mingmakescupcakes.yolasite.com/">Ming Makes Cupcakes!</a> Mmmm<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcEgO8tJNZ1d1F8RpQ3V_guzyX36rOJKbCGKL0HT0fBAzgQCqGDEWxhlsgVghllKbyqeRH1gtaR2HWqR_2g26so1POZNNPnIlGeM_va2PGE4USiT8p0dG2vwnQN9Z-lbJ4x9NtmRHr0M/s640/blogger-image-312254877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcEgO8tJNZ1d1F8RpQ3V_guzyX36rOJKbCGKL0HT0fBAzgQCqGDEWxhlsgVghllKbyqeRH1gtaR2HWqR_2g26so1POZNNPnIlGeM_va2PGE4USiT8p0dG2vwnQN9Z-lbJ4x9NtmRHr0M/s640/blogger-image-312254877.jpg" /></a></div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-35302689977758893832012-07-24T22:39:00.001-07:002012-07-25T11:05:13.255-07:00Pancakes and Bacon for dessert?We all love breakfast for dinner (even lunch) but you can't beat breakfast for dessert when it comes in this convenient package! <br />
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I love Pintrest and it's pretty much been the root of all baking evil in my house since I signed on to it. Luckily I have a lot of brave coworkers that are willing to lend their taste buds to my latest culinary creation. This will be a fun one. But how can you not like pancakes in cupcake form topped with sweet maple butter icing and to add that salty to all that sweet some crispy maple smoked bacon?! I think this will be a hit. <br />
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Here is a link to the blog I got this recipe from...<a href="http://www.theextraordinaryartofcake.com/2010/06/maple-buttermilk-pancake-cupcakes.html?m=1">The Extraordinary Art of Cake</a><br />
Check out the rest of her blog while your there.. She's got some yummy stuff! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jaE2iNVytxmXYgV9_KuBQXm3iMX-IT7BdQR5X_obkBdN3jdSNPItAOWJUbjAiBWpbVAZTKzRk-yKxeTVqpXddCqImYjs_-a-YJ4lszo9GwHiUGc44-bUCoLEkC_osM-cQrv1q-YY-08/s640/blogger-image-434759745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jaE2iNVytxmXYgV9_KuBQXm3iMX-IT7BdQR5X_obkBdN3jdSNPItAOWJUbjAiBWpbVAZTKzRk-yKxeTVqpXddCqImYjs_-a-YJ4lszo9GwHiUGc44-bUCoLEkC_osM-cQrv1q-YY-08/s640/blogger-image-434759745.jpg" /></a></div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8461824006051403604.post-3666601085934973142012-07-24T16:52:00.001-07:002012-07-24T16:52:26.453-07:00Cake Pops- A Labor of LoveCongrats once again to my beautiful cousin Leah and the new addition to our family Lee! It was a gorgeous wedding on the Central Coast, topped off with an outstanding party to celebrate this awesome couple. <br />
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I had the pleasure of contributing some delightful goodies to a very sweet set up for some yummy favors. My aunt did a beautiful job on this candy buffet and I was honored to contribute some delicious, hand-made cake pops. Flavors from lemon and pink lemonade to Guinness chocolate, black monukka (dessert wine) and red velvet even peanut butter where dipped and decorate in chocolate and wrapped in colorful cupcake liners. Each pop tag bearing the flavor name and one of my favorite quotes "All you need is love." It really is true for a simply fantastic wedding all you need is love and Leah and Lee definitely have it! <br />
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Thank you for letting me be a little piece on your big day! <div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoJujgFbfX5g5uWLxZnhbYbaqTk4VdC6LCVjoBmucoyC60Jh6H6AjJTg2vqxPVs1w0D6LZuKlESdL7SpI-j0IJy90CHXL423ANrcGDgV6klOdNWBtFQIXuRnqcxFPzxfy4iAWqdQgXKc/s640/blogger-image-236297493.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoJujgFbfX5g5uWLxZnhbYbaqTk4VdC6LCVjoBmucoyC60Jh6H6AjJTg2vqxPVs1w0D6LZuKlESdL7SpI-j0IJy90CHXL423ANrcGDgV6klOdNWBtFQIXuRnqcxFPzxfy4iAWqdQgXKc/s640/blogger-image-236297493.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigI_KYwQdZ_l2noqTQIkft_4p_P1pzQaato3pvJtZMKql5DGOst0mpGNI9Nj0PIRq2B-Z4J4iqTEVSSWHnkSRSd-QWmn9RaIYQ6I4Q0ON0jsxIETqA1gWDhIhHU_TE39leChZcfvekn5U/s640/blogger-image-1065719664.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigI_KYwQdZ_l2noqTQIkft_4p_P1pzQaato3pvJtZMKql5DGOst0mpGNI9Nj0PIRq2B-Z4J4iqTEVSSWHnkSRSd-QWmn9RaIYQ6I4Q0ON0jsxIETqA1gWDhIhHU_TE39leChZcfvekn5U/s640/blogger-image-1065719664.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKMe7pk0TKaGiTl9f3TuwJox1RXi6aXBFEv9Vz1NEXtMXVzIr2oCtG4kGRTnLvZfJORk4p59nsxWXeZxcDnVPsa5JalYvPMN6R7dGY0YvHdplbKIbKmfCBX34o3wwFfNu5gPuiudrKIHM/s640/blogger-image--1691821846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKMe7pk0TKaGiTl9f3TuwJox1RXi6aXBFEv9Vz1NEXtMXVzIr2oCtG4kGRTnLvZfJORk4p59nsxWXeZxcDnVPsa5JalYvPMN6R7dGY0YvHdplbKIbKmfCBX34o3wwFfNu5gPuiudrKIHM/s640/blogger-image--1691821846.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRQEht-yjtH-nd4H0eW5Nk80bul0YbxGVzJA7mtOgPuOVA39CR_LpBMdW5wexqTQLoZ5cruZwMZhMSKVrraCm5-FOtpRIfchD6YR_R5EYmXKsfyg4EjYWR_HsjA2F2dvfd-O7kGIm0LU/s640/blogger-image-1273147140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxRQEht-yjtH-nd4H0eW5Nk80bul0YbxGVzJA7mtOgPuOVA39CR_LpBMdW5wexqTQLoZ5cruZwMZhMSKVrraCm5-FOtpRIfchD6YR_R5EYmXKsfyg4EjYWR_HsjA2F2dvfd-O7kGIm0LU/s640/blogger-image-1273147140.jpg" /></a></div>mrssmith14http://www.blogger.com/profile/06953781670157611433noreply@blogger.com0