VanOrden Recipes

8 Can Soup

2011-12-29T17:08:00.000-08:00

This is a fast and easy recipe from my dear friend, Jennifer Burke. We met in the Springfield II Ward when I lived in Illinois. She brought this soup to us when Morgan was born. I think I ate most of it by myself. I loved it and still do!!!

1 can corn
1 can green beans
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can sliced potatoes
1 can mixed vegetables
1 can condensed vegetable soup
1 can chili with beans (turkey if you want to make it a weight watchers recipe)
1 can chili without beans

Depending on the consistency you want, you either drain or don't drain the vegetables. If you do drain them, it is more like a stew. Otherwise, it is more like a soup.

Empty cans into a slow cooker or large pot. Heat to almost boiling and then simmer on low til it is time to serve. The longer you let it simmer, the better it is.

An easy recipe for a busy night. Jordan, Rylee and Cameron would eat this stuff up when I used to make it.

Pumpkin Waffles

2011-10-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

I made these for my kids this morning for a good fall breakfast. I added chocolate chips and they loved them! I was told they were an excellent halloween breakfast
Ingredients:
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/4 cups buttermilk
1 egg
1/4 cup ) melted butter
1 3/4 cups flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
optional - chocolate chips

Instructions:
1. Combine the pumpkin puree, buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Stir to combine.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining (dry) ingredients. Add wet ingredients to dry and stir just until moistened.
3. Preheat waffle iron. Grease waffle iron and cook waffles until browned.

spaghetti sauce for canning

2011-09-07T13:20:00.001-07:00

I use this for pizza sauce also. It is good and thick and works great!

1 c. olive oil
12 cloves of minced garlic
1-2 c. chopped onion
1 heaping Tablespoon of each–
oregano
basil
celery salt
pepper
1 c. brown sugar
tsp. red pepper flakes (optional…. I don’t use them)
4 small cans tomato paste
16 cups fresh tomatoes (usually around 10 – 12 lbs) Roma’s work best
½ c. lemon juice

Skin the tomatoes and remove water and seeds from the inside. (This step is a must or your sauce will be super watery)
Slice tomatoes to the thickness you prefer or blend them up.
In a saucepan, heat olive oil, then put in your minced garlic and onion and sauté until garlic begins to turn golden brown. !uickly add spices and continue to stir. Pour the mixture into a large pot. Add tomatoes and tomato paste and heat to a boil. Reduce heat and add remaining ingredients. Cook until sauces reaches the thickness you desire. (I do mine in a big roaster oven and just leave it on high… simmering and stirring occasionally for an hour or two.)

Water bath for 45 minutes.

Chicken (or Turkey) Tetrazzinni

2010-12-04T18:33:00.000-08:00

If you can believe this, my daughter who has to be very nearly force fed everything ate her whole bowl of this and then asked for seconds. My entire family LOVED it. That never happens to me. (Somebody always tells me dinner is gross) So this recipe is now going to be a frequently made one.

12 ounces homemade style egg noodles ( the kind like Grandma DaBell uses for chicken noodle soup. You can find them dried or frozen)
2 Tablespoons butter
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
2 cans cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon seasoning salt
1/2 tsp. celery salt
3 cups shredded cheese (divided)
4 cups cooked and cubed chicken
1 1/2 c. frozen or fresh peas
optional : carrotts, celery, green peppers......
Directions
1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2.Cook noodles according to package directions, only do it a few minutes less so the noodles are not quite tender. 3.In large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, 2 minutes. Add soup, broth, seasoned salt and 1 1/2 cups of the cheese. Cook and stir until cheese melts and mixture is smooth. Add noodles and chicken or turkey and any desired vegetables. Cover with remaining cheese. Transfer to 2-quart baking dish.
4.Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

8 Can Soup

2010-10-26T20:46:00.000-07:00

As Phinneas and Ferb would say, "Easy Peasy, Lemon Squeezy"....

1 can Chili
1 can Chili without beans
1 can vegetable beef soup
1 can dice tomatoes
1 can sliced potatoes
1 can corn
1 can beans
1 can mixed vegetables

Drain liquid off of all vegetables. Add all cans to a pot and cook until boiling. Turn to low and let simmer as long as you want. The more you simmer, the better it gets. It is also a great recipe to throw in a crockpot.

Try it, you'll like it :)

Pumpkin cobbler bars

2010-10-25T07:20:00.001-07:00

1 package yellow cake mix
1 egg
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 (29 ounce) can pumpkin puree
2 eggs
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup white sugar
2/3 cup evaporated milk
3/4 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
Directions
1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees .Set aside 1 cup cake mix for the topping. Combine remaining cake mix, 1 egg, and melted butter or margarine. Pat into a 9x13 pan.
2.In a large bowl, mix pumpkin, 2 eggs, spices, 1/2 cup sugar, and milk. Pour pumpkin mixture over the cake mix crust.
3.In a small bowl, combine 1 cup cake mix and 3/4 cup sugar. Cut in 1/2 cup softened butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle mixture on top of pumpkin mixture.
4.Bake at 350 degrees for 55 minutes.

BEST SERVED COLD

Grandma's pink popcorn

2010-10-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

2 c. sugar
2/3 c. half and half or evaporated milk
1 Tbsp. White karo
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
Red food coloring

Cook until slightly firm ball (230 on a candy thermometer) Stirring frequently.
Pour slowly over 6 quarts of popped corn. (I use 3/4 c. unpopped kernels for this recipe) Pour out on wax paper to cool. *Recipe does not make popcorn balls. Kernels cluster when poured on.

THIS STUFF IS ADDICTING!

Marci's Crock Pot Apple Butter

2010-10-18T07:54:00.000-07:00

A great way to use up all the extra aples this time of year!

Peel, core, and slice apples
Fill a large crock pot almost to the top with apple slices
Add 3 c. sugar
3 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. cloves
dash of salt
Slow cook 12-14 hours
Take lid off to cook the last hour to cook off a little of the liquid
Blend with a hand blender until all the chunks are gone.

ENJOY!

Oatmeal Cake (Dutch Oven)

2010-05-23T18:30:00.000-07:00

This can be used for a 9x13 pan in the oven ....or it works awesome in the dutch oven!

Add water to 2 c. dry oatmeal and let stand 20 min.
Cream together:
1/2 c. shortening
3/4 c. white sugar
3/4 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
add prepared oatmeal.
Stir in :
1 1/3 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. soda
1/2 tsp Cinnamon
Pour into dutch oven (we used 12 inch) or a 9x13 cake pan

Bake 350 for 35 min. Or in a dutch oven 35-40 min, with 15-18 coals on top and 8 on bottom.

TOPPING:
In saucepan combine:
1 1/2 sticks butter
1 c. brown sugar
1/2 c. cream
1/2 tsp Vanilla
1 - 2 c. coconut (optional)
1 c. chopped pecans
We also put small caramel pieces on top and they were yummy!
Boil in pan until brown and bubbly. Pour over baked cake and broil until browned, about 5 min. (To broil in a dutch oven move all the coals to top)

Leftover- roast vegetable soup

2010-03-02T17:33:00.000-08:00

Michelle gave me this recipe....and it is hands down the best vegetable beef soup I have ever had. Thanks Michelle!

1 pound shredded leftover pot-roast (or you could use cooked stew meat, or browned hamburger.....but I recommend the pot-roast.yummy.)
4 cups beef broth
4 cups water
2 (1 ounce) packages dry onion soup mix
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 onion, chopped
1 (16 ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables (or fresh veggies of your choice)
1 c. ditalini, macaroni, or your favorite kind of pasta

In a large stock pot or your crock pot, combine roast, beef broth, water, onion soup mix, tomato sauce, celery, onion, frozen vegetables and pasta. Bring to a boil and then simmer until pasta is done.

I put mine in the crock pot most of the afternoon, and just threw the pasta in about 1/2 hour before I was ready for dinner!
(couple of hints for everyone) - when I buy celery, I chop it in my cuisinart immediately and store in serving size portions in the freezer. That way I always have some on hand and my kids can't freak out about seeing celery in their food, but we still get the flavor of it. Also, I never use fresh onions in anything. I use onions that I have minced and dried out of my garden and I think it still tastes fantastic!

Honey-Oat wheat Bread

2010-03-01T09:45:00.000-08:00

Got this one off of the Tasty Kitchen website...(tweaked it slightly) LOVE IT! Very light and soft!

* 4-½ teaspoons Active Dry Yeast
* 1 heaping T. vital wheat gluten
* ½ cups Honey
* 4 Tablespoons Butter
* 2-¼ cups Water
* 1 Tablespoon Salt
* 2-¾ cups Bread Flour
* 4 cups Whole Wheat Flour
* 1 cup Quick Cooking Oats (I used a rounded 1/2 c. finely ground oat flour)
* 1 whole Egg

Preparation Instructions

In the microwave, heat the butter and honey until the butter is melted. Add the water; the mixture should be warm (120-130 degrees). Stir in the yeast and let sit until bubbly, about 10 minutes (this is called making a sponge).

In your mixer, combine salt, yeast mixture, 2 cups whole wheat flour and 1 cup bread flour. With mixer on low, gradually blend liquid into dry ingredients until just blended. Increase the speed to medium, beat for two minutes, occasionally scraping bowl. Gradually beat in the egg and one cup of whole wheat flour to make a thick batter. Continue beating for two minutes. Stir in oats, 1 cup whole wheat flour and 1 cup all purpose flour. Knead till smooth and elastic. (dought should be following the hook around the bowl ) Use more flour if dough is too sticky
Place in a greased bowl and cover. Let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. Punch down and let rise again until doubled. (will raise faster than last time)

Shape into loaves and let rise for 1 hour in greased loaf pans. This makes two REALLY big loaves...or 4 medium ones.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes.
Make sure to eat some while it is hot. ITS FANTASTIC!

Hint for oven frying

2010-02-10T14:32:00.000-08:00

An interesting baking hint I found today at cafe zupa's blog.....I'm definitely trying it

Have you ever taken a food that the recipe said to fry and baked it instead to save a few calories? I’m sure all of us have done that a time or two. But unfortunately, what you usually get is not crispy at all, like the fried counterpart would have been. But there is a way to get those oven “fried” foods nice and crispy!

All it takes is a baking sheet and a cooling rack. Just place the cooling rack on top of the baking sheet (you can line the baking sheet with foil to make clean up a breeze!) and set your food on top of the cooling rack. Into the oven it goes, and out comes crispy food! Since the food is up off the surface, the air is able to move around the food and keep it crispy, instead of getting soggy where the food would normally just lay on top of the baking sheet. Try it next time you are making some crispy chicken tenders or french fries at home - you’ll be amazed at the difference!:

75 uses for Baking Soda

2009-12-30T18:12:00.000-08:00

75 uses for Baking Soda
Health Uses
1. Use it as an antacid.
2. Use it as underarm deodorant by applying it with a powder puff.

3. Mix half a teaspoon with peroxide paste and use it as toothpaste.
4. Use it as a face and body scrub.
5. Add a cup to bathwater to soften your skin.
6. Relieve skin itch from insect bites and pain from sunburn.
7. Remove strong odors from your hands by rubbing them with baking soda and water.
8. Put two tablespoons in your baby’s bathwater to help relieve diaper rash.
9. Apply it on rashes, insect bites, and poison ivy irritations.
10. Take a baking soda bath to relieve skin irritations.
11. Heartburn? Take a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with one-half glass of water.
12. Freshen your mouth by gargling half a teaspoon of baking soda mixed water.

13. Relieve canker sore pain by using it as mouthwash.
14. Use it to relieve bee stings.
15. Use it to relieve windburns.
16. Apply it on jellyfish sting to draw out the venom.
17. Unblock stuffy nose by adding a teaspoon of baking soda to your vaporizer.
In the Home
18. Keep cut flowers fresh longer by adding a teaspoon to the water in the vase.
19. Put out small fires on rugs, upholstery, clothing, and wood.
20. Put an open container of baking soda in the fridge to absorb the odors.
21. Sprinkle it on your ashtrays to reduce bad odor and prevent smoldering.
22. Sprinkle it on your slippers, boots, shoes, and socks to eliminate foul odor.
23. Turn baking soda into modeling clay by combining it with one and 1/4 cups of water and one cup of cornstarch.
24. After feeding your baby, wipe his shirt with a moist cloth sprinkled with baking soda to remove the odor.
25. Wipe your windshield with it to repel rain.
26. Improve the smell of dishrags by soaking them in baking soda and water.
27. Suck it in with your vacuum cleaner to remove the odor.
28. Freshen the air by mixing baking soda with your favorite perfumed bath salts. Put the mixture in small sachet bags.
29. Restore stiff brushes by boiling them in a solution of 1/2 gallon of water, 1/4 cup of vinegar, and a cup of baking soda.
30. Put it under sinks and along basement windows to repel cockroaches and ants.
31. Scatter baking soda around flowerbeds to prevent rabbits from eating your veggies.
32. Sweeten your tomatoes by sprinkling baking soda on the soil around your tomato plants.
33. Sprinkle it onto your cat’s litter box to absorb the bad odor.
34. Sprinkle it on your pet’s comb or brush to deodorize their fur and skin.
In Cooking
35. Use it as a substitute for baking powder by mixing with it with cream of tartar or vinegar.
36. Wash fruits and vegetables with it.

37. When boiling a chicken, add a teaspoon of baking soda to the water. Feathers will come off easier, and the flesh will be clean and white.
38. Soak dried beans to a baking soda solution to make them more digestible.
39. Remove the distinctive taste of wild game by soaking it in a baking soda solution.
40. Make a sports drink by mixing it with boiled water, salt, and Kool-Aid.
41. Remove the fishy smell from your fillets by soaking the raw fish in a baking soda solution for an hour inside the fridge.
42. Make fluffier omelets by adding half a teaspoon of baking soda for every three eggs used.

43. Reduce the acid content of your tomato-based recipes by sprinkling them with a pinch of baking soda.
Cleaning Purposes
44. Add a cup to the toilet, leave it for an hour, and then flush. It will clean the toilet and absorb the odor.

45. Use it to scrub sinks, showers, plastic and porcelain tubs
46. Spray it on walls, mirrors, and countertops.
47. Add a spoonful to your dishwasher to make scrubbing dishes easier.
48. Remove grease from pots and pans.
49. Dry clean carpets and upholstered furniture by sprinkling baking soda over the fabric and gently brushing it. Leave it for an hour or overnight, then vacuum.
50. Boost your laundry detergent’s cleaning power by sprinkling a handful on dirty clothes.
51. Combine it with water to make a paste for polishing stainless steel and chrome.
52. Remove scratches and crayon marks from vinyl floors and walls.
53. Clean your shoes with it.
54. Clean garbage cans with it.
55. Use it to wash diapers.
56. Clean the fridge with it.
57. Soak brushes and combs in a baking soda solution.
58. Mix it with water to wash food and drink containers.
59. Put three tablespoons of baking soda to a quart of warm water, then use the mixture to wash marble-topped furniture.
60. Absorb it with a damp sponge
, then clean Formica countertops with the sponge.
61. Use it to get rid of stale odors from cooling containers and thermos bottles.
62. Run your coffee maker with a baking soda solution, then rinse.
63. Combine with hot water to clean baby bottles.
64. Sprinkle it on barbecue grills, then rinse it off.
65. Scatter it on your greasy garage floor, scrub the floor, and rinse.
66. Remove burned-on food from a pan by soaking it in a baking soda solution for 10 minutes before washing.
67. Clean your ashtrays with a baking soda solution.
68. Keep your drains clean by putting four tablespoons of baking soda in them each week. Flush it down with hot water.
69. Clean your shower curtains by soaking them in baking soda and water.
70. Put it on a small brush to rub canvas handbags clean.
71. Use it to remove melted plastic bread wrapper from a toaster. Sprinkle baking soda on a damp rug, then use the rug to clean the toaster.
72. Use it to clean your retainers and dentures.

73. Make a thick paste of baking soda and water, and used it to scrub enameled cast iron and stainless steel.
74. Mix four tablespoons of baking soda with a quart of warm water, and use it to clean the inside part of an oven.
75. Use it to unclog gas stoves.
The most amazing thing about baking soda is that it’s very cheap. You can do all these things for a very small cost. Baking soda is truly a miracle product, whether it’s used for baking or not.

LEFTOVER TURKEY POT PIE

2009-12-19T09:13:00.000-08:00

Found this one off of p.w.'s blog. Shay loved it.

1 pie crust (1/2 of Perfect Pie Crust recipe)
1/2 stick butter
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced carrot
1/2 cup diced celery
2 cups leftover turkey
1/4 cup flour
2 cups chicken or turkey broth
splash of 7-up
1 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
Frozen peas (optional)
1/2 - 1 tsp. thyme
salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Melt butter in a skillet or dutch oven. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until translucent (a couple of minutes.)
Add turkey and stir. Sprinkle flour over mixture and stir. Cook over medium heat for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly.
Pour in chicken or turkey broth, stirring constantly. Splash in 7-up. Pour in cream. (May add frozen peas at this point if you’d like.)
Bring to a slow boil and allow mixture to cook and thicken for a few minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste (do not underseason), and fresh or dried thyme to taste. Do one final taste at the end and add what it needs.
Pour mixture into a casserole dish or deep pie pan.
Roll out crust so that it’s about 1 inch larger than the pan you’re using.
Place the crust on top of the pot pie mixture, and press crust into the sides of the dish. Cut vents in the top of the crust.
Bake for 30 minutes or until very golden and bubbly.
Allow to cool for a little bit before serving.

PERFECT PIE CRUST (1/2 the recipe for this pot pie)
Ingredients

* 1-½ cup Crisco
* 3 cups Flour
* 1 whole Egg
* 5 Tablespoons Cold Water
* 1 Tablespoon White Vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Salt

Preparation Instructions

In a large bowl, with a pastry cutter, gradually work the Crisco into the flour for about 3 or 4 minutes until it resembles a coarse meal. In a small bowl, beat an egg with a fork and then pour it into the flour/shortening mixture. Add 5 tablespoons of cold water, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir together gently until all of the ingredients are incorporated.

Separate the dough into thirds. Form 3 evenly sized balls of dough and place each dough into a large Ziploc bag. Using a rolling pin, slightly flatten each ball of dough (about ½ inch thick) to make rolling easier later. Seal the bags and place them in the freezer until you need them. (If you will be using it immediately it’s still a good idea to put in the freezer for about 15 to 20 minutes to chill.)

When you are ready to use the dough to make a crust, remove from the freezer and allow to thaw for 15 minutes. On a floured surface roll the dough, starting at the center and working your way out. (Sprinkle some flour over top of the dough if it’s a bit too moist.) If the dough is sticking to the countertop use a metal spatula and carefully scrape it up and flip it over and continue rolling until it’s about ½ inch larger in diameter than your pie pan.

With a spatula, lift the dough carefully from the surface of the counter into the pie pan. Gently press the dough against the corner of the pan. Go around the pie pan pinching and tucking the dough to make a clean edge.

Chewy Oatmeal cookies

2009-10-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

You can change this recipe however you'd like by adding butterscotch, white, or chocolate chips, or even reeses pieces. Yummy!

Ingredients

* 1 cup butter, softened
* 1 cup white sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
* 3 cups quick cooking oats

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, cream together butter, white sugar, and brown sugar. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; stir into the creamed mixture. Mix in oats. Cover, and chill dough for at least one hour.
2. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets. Roll the dough into walnut sized balls, and place 2 inches apart on cookie sheets. Flatten each cookie with a large fork dipped in sugar.
3. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in preheated oven. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Fudge puddles

2009-10-29T11:08:00.000-07:00

Got this one off of allrecipes. Very easy but fancy.
Ingredients

* 1/2 cup butter, softened
* 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
* 1/2 cup white sugar
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 egg
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
*
* 1 cup milk chocolate chips
* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* reeses pieces or sprinkles

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F
2. Sift together flour, baking soda and salt.
3. Cream butter, peanut butter and white and brown sugars. Mix in egg and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Stir the flour mixture into creamed mixture. Shape the dough into 48 balls, 1 inch each. Place each ball in one compartment of a mini muffin tin.
4. For filling, put chocolate chips in microwave until melted. Stir in milk and vanilla, mix well.
5. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven and immediately make wells in the center of each using a melon baller. Cool in pan for 5 minutes. Then carefully remove to wire racks. Using a measuring cup fill each shell with the chocolate mixture. Top with candy or sprinkles

Homemade Caramel Sauce

2009-09-14T16:09:00.001-07:00

If you want to turn plain ol' vanilla ice cream into something unbearably delicious...try this. It is to die for!

* 1/4 cup butter
* 1 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
* 16 large marshmallows
* 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
* 1 dash salt
* 1 cup evaporated milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in brown sugar, marshmallows, corn syrup and salt. Bring to a boil over low heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 1 minute. Remove from the heat. Stir in evaporated milk stirring constantly while you add it, add vanilla; mix well.

Makes about 2 cups. Store in the fridge

Fresh Corn Salsa

2009-09-09T19:05:00.000-07:00

This recipe is from my sister in law. The salsa isn't for canning....just for eating fresh. But HOLY SMOKES you've gotta try it!

Corn Salsa
2 cans corn
4 roma tomatoes, diced
2 green bell peppers, diced
3 green onions, diced
1 can chopped olives
1 bottle kraft zesty italian dressing
garlic salt, salt and pepper to taste
Combine above ingredients and chill. YUMMY!

Carolynn's Salsa for Canning

2009-09-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

4-5 Quarts Tomatoes (peeled and diced)
3 tsp. Crushed Red Pepper
2 Large Green Peppers (diced)
4 Large Onions (diced)
12 small 8 oz cans of Tomato Sauce (That equals 96 oz. if you want to buy large cans)
3 tsp. ground cumin
3-4 tsp. oregano
4 tsp. salt
1 small can diced green chiles

Combine ingredients in LARGE saucepan. Simmer for about 2 hours Stir often with lid off. Makes 12 - 15 pints

Water bath for 25 minutes.

Tasty Burritos

2009-09-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

I found this off another recipe blog recently (can't remember which one...and I really liked it....super simple and my husband LOVES crispy burritos!)

1 lb. ground beef
1 envelope taco seasoning
1 can (16 oz) refried beans
6 flour tortillas warmed
1 c. shredded cheese
4 tsp. canola oil
sour cream and salsa

In a large skillet, brown beef and drain. Stir in taco seasoning. In a saucepan, cook refried beans over med-low heat for 2-3 min. Spoon about 1/3 c. on each tortilla; top with 2 rounded tablespoons of beef mixture. Sprinkle with cheese. Roll up tortilla, tucking ends in. In a large skillet, over med-hi heat, brown burritos in oil on all sides. Serve with sour cream and salsa.
Makes 6 burritos

Best brown sugar cake

2009-09-08T07:57:00.000-07:00

1 pkg. yellow cake mix
1 small package instant vanilla pudding
4 eggs
2/3 c. sour cream (you can 2/3 c. buttermilk + 3 T. butter if you need to)
2/3 c. water
1/2 c. oil
1 c. brown sugar
Beat first 6 ingredients with mixer until well blended. Add brown sugar and mix well.
Pour into bundt pan sprayed well with cooking spray and sprinkled with flour or sugar.
Bake at 350 for 1 hour. Cool for at least 15 minutes before trying to remove from pan.

White chicken enchiladas

2009-09-08T07:50:00.000-07:00

2 lbs. chicken breast
1/2 c. chicken broth
3/4 c. finely chopped onions
simmer in crock pot until chicken can be shredded
Fill tortillas with mixture and place seam side down in baking pan.

1/4 c. butter
1/4 c. flour
1 c. chicken broth
1 c. sour cream
optional green chilies or jalapenos

In sauce pan melt 1/4 c. butter. Blend in 1/4 c. flour and stir constantly to make it creamy. Add 1 c. chicken broth and cook until mixture thickens and bubbles. Stir in 1 c. sour cream. You may add 1 can green chilies or jalapenos if desired. Cook until heated through but do not boil! Pour sauce over tortillas. Cover with 2 c. shredded cheese and bake 425 for 20 min.

"So good they're gone" Drop Sugar Cookies

2009-08-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

The best part about these is that there is no rolling out and cutting into shapes involved.....but the kids still get a kick out of rolling the cookie dough in the sugar for me! And by the way, if there's any dough left to bake after the kids get a taste of it...I'm impressed. These are just darn yummy!

* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 1 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 cup butter
* 1 cup vegetable oil (I use margarine or butter flavored shortening)
* 2 eggs
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
* 4 1/4 cups flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon cream of tartar

* sugar for decoration (My kids love it if I use colored sugar, it makes the cookies look much snazzier...no frosting necessary)

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F ( 175 degrees C ).
2. In a large bowl, cream together sugar, butter, and oil. Stir in the eggs and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking soda, salt and cream of tartar; stir into the creamed mixture. Roll the dough into balls the size of walnuts. Roll in sugar. Place balls onto ungreased sheet. Press each ball down with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar. (Find a glass with a decorative bottom to give cookies a pattern.)
3. Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.

Hearty Hamburger Vegetable Soup

2009-08-16T07:53:00.000-07:00

1/2 lb ground beef
¼ c. Onion chopped
¼ c. chopped green pepper
¼ tsp. garlic powder
4 c. beef broth
1 can Italian stewed tomatoes
½ pkg frozen green beans
½ c. tomato sauce
1 c. small pasta like ditalini
½ T. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. oregano
½ tsp. basil
In a dutch oven or large saucepan, cook the beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain. Stir in the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat , cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until vegetables and pasta are tender. 5-6 servings.

Chocolate Pudding Zucchini Muffins

2009-08-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe on a frugal living blog. I haven't tried them yet...but I'm going to today I think. They sound delightful! Plus then I can pretend I fed my children vegetables!
* 3 eggs, beaten
* 1 c. cooking oil
* 1 1/4 c. sugar
* 1 large package chocolate instant pudding
* 2 c. grated zucchini
* 2 tsp. vanilla
*3 C. flour - you can substitute in wheat flour without it being very noticeable
* 1 tsp. soda
* 1/2 tsp. baking powder
* 1 tsp. salt
* 1 c. chopped nuts (optional)

1. Beat eggs, oil, sugar, pudding mix, vanilla and zucchini together.
2. Blend dry ingredients and add to zucchini mixture; mix well.
3. Scoop into greased muffin tins.
4. Bake 17-20 minutes at 350°.

** Makes 2 1/2 dozen muffins.
** You could also grease two loaf pans and bake 1 hour at 350° for Chocolate Pudding Zucchini Brea

Carrot Cookies

2009-08-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

These are one of my husband's favorite cookies. I got the recipe from his mother.

2/3 cup shortening
2/3 cup sugar
1 egg
1 cup grated carrots (I have used freshly grated or cooked and mashed and can't tell a difference)
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Cream shortening and sugar. Add egg, vanilla, and carrots. Then add dry ingredients. Dough will be stiff (add a little milk if too stiff). Bake at 350 for 15 minutes. Then frost with the following glaze:
Mix 3/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 tbsp melted butter, and 1/4 tsp grated orange ring. Add enough orange juice to desired consistency.

Print Recipe

Zucchini Cookies

2009-08-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

For all of us who have massive amounts of zucchini this time of year, this is a good way to get your kids to eat it.

2 eggs beaten
2 2/3 cup sugar
1 cup oil
4 cups grated zucchini
6 cups flour
2 tsp salt
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cloves
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1 small package instant vanilla pudding
chocolate chips

Cream sugar, oil, and eggs. Add pudding. Then add dry ingredients. Bake at 350degrees for 14 minutes.

Aunt Karen's Spaghetti Sauce

2009-08-06T12:11:00.000-07:00

SPAGHETTI SAUCE
l/2 bushel ripe tomatoes (run
through Victoria strainer)
2 c. chopped celery
2 c. chopped onion
2 c. green peppers
1 bottle parsley flakes
1/2 c. cooking oil
Garlic to taste
4 Tbsp. chili powder
3 Tbsp. salt
2 Tbsp. sugar
2 tsp. oregano
2 tsp. rosemary

2 tsp. ground allspice
1 tsp. basil
2 tsp. black pepper
2 tsp. thyme
2 tsp. sage
1 tsp. cumin
1 (32 oz.) bottle catsup
3 pkg. Schilling spaghetti sauce
mix
4 large cans tomato paste
Mix tomatoes, celery, onion, peppers, parsley flakes, cooking oil, and garlic; cook 1 hour. Add chili powder, salt, sugar, oregano, rosemary, ground allspice, basil, black pepper, thyme, sage, and cumin. Add catsup, spaghetti sauce mix, and tomato paste. Bubble for 3 hours. Stir often. Put in bottle while hot. Cold pack 5 minutes to seal. Yield: 7 to 8 quarts.

Frosty Orange Creme Layered Dessert

2009-07-30T14:44:00.000-07:00

Frosty Orange Creme Layered Dessert
2 - 3 cups orange sherbet
1 package cream cheese
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup orange juice
1 tub (8 oz) cool whip

First, line a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan with foil. Spread the sherbet onto bottom of prepared pan to form even layer.Freeze 10 min.

Meanwhile, beat cream cheese in large bowl with mixer until creamy. Gradually add condensed milk and juice, beating until blended. Gently stir in cool whip. Pour over sherbet in pan.

Freeze 3 hours. To unmold, invert pan onto plate; remove foil.

Angel Chicken

2009-07-21T13:13:00.000-07:00

4 oz. (1/2 of 8-oz. pkg.) Cream Cheese, softened
1 can (10-3/4 oz.) cream of mushroom soup
1/4 cup Zesty Italian Dressing
1/4 cup sprite
1-1/2 lb. chicken tenders
1/2 lb. angel hair pasta, uncooked

BEAT cream cheese, soup, dressing and sprite with whisk until blended; pour over chicken in slow cooker. Cook on LOW 4 to 5 hours (or on HIGH 2 to 3 hours).

COOK pasta as directed on package about 15 min. drain. Serve topped with chicken mixture

It is also good served on french bread!

Try these....

2009-07-20T16:17:00.000-07:00

I have stumbled across a few new cooking blogs.... LOVE THEM :)

Give'm a try, you might find something you like.

Favorite Family Recipes

Taste and Tell

My favorite: Real Mom Kitchen

Here are some from my google reader, not about food, but still pretty darn good reading:

The Sewing Friend

The Meanest Mom

Segullah Blog

If you have a favorite blog, feel free to share with us all. I love finding good things.

Homemade clorox wipes

2009-05-29T12:40:00.000-07:00

Marci taught me this when she was out to visit....and they are AWESOME!!! Finally my kids can help clean without me feeling like they are wasting lots of $$$$$! I hope I got her recipe right!

Cleaning Wipes

• l plastic food storage container, 10-cup capacity
• extra-large roll of paper towels
• cleaning agents of your choice (recipes follow)
• electric drill with 1/2-inch drill bit
• electric knife
• liquid measuring cups

Instructions:
Place a small block of wood beneath the plastic food storage container lid. Use electric drill to drill a 1/2-inch diameter hole in the center of the container lid.

For best results, select an extra-large roll of good quality paper towels for this project. Less-expensive towels fray or shred when pulled through the holder; thicker quilted towels have greater cleaning strength and withstand more scrubbing.

Use an electric knife to cut the paper towel roll in half making two short rolls. Save the second roll for a refill later.

Remove the wrapper, and place one short paper towel roll inside plastic food storage container. Using a liquid measuring cup, gently pour one of the following cleaning solution recipes over the top of the paper towel roll.

You will need between 2 and 4 cups of cleaning solution, depending on the size and absorbency of the paper towel product selected. These recipes make about three cups of solution; increase or decrease amounts if needed.

General Surface Cleaning:
• 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
• 1 1/2 cups water

Disinfectant Cleaning:
• 2 - 4 TBSP. disinfectant cleaning solution such as Lysol brand
• 2 - 2 1/2 cup water

Window and Glass Cleaning:
• 1/2 cup rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar

Place the lid on the container, and allow paper towels to absorb cleaning solution for 4 hours to overnight.

Open the food storage container. Gently pull the wet cardboard tube from the center of the paper towel roll and discard. Carefully pull the end of the paper towels from the inside, where the cardboard roll had been. Thread the end of the towels through the hole in the lid, and replace the lid.

Pull gently on the exposed end to separate the cleaning wipe. If your 'wipes' tear easily, use better quality paper towels.

Tips: As you use the wipes, they will begin to dry out, so add more water and/or cleaning solution as necessary. Allow wipes to stand overnight before continuing to use them after adding more solution. You may vary the strength of the cleaning solutions as necessary for your household, using more cleaning agents for a stronger wipe, less solution and more water for a milder product.

Baby Wipes Follow the above directions using the following solution:
2 cups water, 2 Tablespoons baby shampoo or baby wash 1 Tablespoon baby oil

Dinner Rolls

2009-05-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

1 T. yeast
1/2 c. warm water
1/2 c. milk, scalded then cooled to lukewarm
1/3 c. sugar
1/3 tsp. shortening or butter
1 tsp. salt
1 T. vital wheat gluten
1 T. potato flakes (if using wheat flour)
1 T. vinegar ( if using wheat flour)
1 egg
3 1/2 c. flour
Dissolve yeast in warm water. Stir in remaining ingredients. Knead in mixer for about 10 min. The dough should be very soft and elastic. If it isn't... add a Tablespoon at a time more water and knead until dough follows mixer blade around the bowl. Grease bowl and raise until doubled. Punch dough down and repeat. Shape rolls (Makes about 2 dozen rolls) Raise until doubled and Bake at 375 for about 20 min.

Emergency Kitchen substitutions

2009-05-15T16:50:00.000-07:00

EMERGENCY SUBSTITUTIONS:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For: 1 Tbsp fresh herb
Use: 1/3 to 1/2 tsp dried herb (of the same kind)

For: 1 clove garlic
Use: 1/8 tsp garlic powder

For: 1 egg in baking
Use: 1 tsp cornstarch plus 1/4 cup water

For: 1 cup whole fresh milk
Use: 1/2 cup evaporated milk plus 1/2 cup water, or 1/3 cup dry milk plus 1 cup water

For: 1 cup buttermilk
Use: 1 cup plain yogurt, or 1 cup sour milk (4 tsp white vinegar or lemon juice plus milk to make 1 cup -- let sit for five minutes before using)

For: 1 cup sour cream (in baking)
Use: 7/8 cup buttermilk or sour milk plus 3 Tbsp butter

For: 1 cup sour cream (in salad dressings, casseroles)
Use: 1 cup plain yogurt or 3/4 cup sour milk plus 1/3 cup butter

For: 1 cup cream
Use: 1/3 cup butter plus 3/4 cup milk

For: 1 cup corn syrup
Use: 2/3 cup granulated sugar plus 1/3 cup water

For: 1 cup brown sugar
Use: 1 cup granulated sugar plus 2 Tbsp molasses

For: 1 3/4 cup confectioners sugar
Use: 1 cup granulated sugar, packed

For: 1 cup margarine or butter (in baking or cooking)
Use: 1 cup hard shortening or 7/8 cup vegetable oil

For: 1 square unsweetened chocolate
Use: 3 Tbsp cocoa plus 1 Tbsp oil

For: 1 ounce semi-sweet chocolate
Use: 1 ounce unsweetened chocolate plus 4 tsp sugar

For: 3/4 cup cracker crumbs
Use: 1 cup bread crumbs

For: 1 cup cake flour, sifted
Use: 7/8 cup all purpose flour, sifted (1 cup minus 2 Tbsp)

For: 1 tsp baking powder
Use: 1/3 tsp baking soda plus 1/2 tsp cream of tarter, or 1/4 tsp baking soda plus 1/3 cup sour milk

For: 1 Tbsp cornstarch for thickening
Use: 2 Tbsp flour

Egg Substitute

2009-05-15T12:29:00.000-07:00

What is a good substitute for eggs?

* 2 tbsp cornstarch = 1 egg
* 2 tbsp arrowroot flour = 1 egg
* 2 tbsp potato starch = 1 egg
* 1 heaping tbsp soy powder + 2 tbsp water = 1 egg
* 1 tbsp soy milk powder + 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water = 1 egg.
* 1 banana = 1 egg in cakes.
* 1 tbsp milled flax seed and 3 tbsp water = 1 egg. Light, fluffy cakes!

Granola

2009-05-06T08:48:00.001-07:00

Got this off of the Everyday Food storage website....Michelle tried it and said it's really good!

Crunchy Granola
1 ½ cups brown sugar
½ cup water
4 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
8 cups rolled oats
¾ cup pecans, coarsely chopped
¾ cup almonds, coarsely chopped
½ cup sunflower seeds, unsalted
½ cup shredded coconut
dried fruits, if desired (tropical fruit is good, raisins, blueberries, cranberries, cherries are all great.)
Heat oven to 275 degrees.
Combine brown sugar and water in a 4 cup microwave proof cup.
Microwave on high 5 minutes, or until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Remove from microwave and stir in vanilla and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, mix oats and nuts.
Add the brown sugar mixture.
Mix thoroughly.
Spread onto 2 cookie sheets and bake for a total of 45 minutes or until golden brown.
After 25 minutes, stir and put back in the oven for the rest of the time.
When granola has cooked completely, add dried fruits.

Peanut butter Granola

Mix &; heat in 4-cup glass jug for 4 minutes on HIGH:
1-1/2 c white sugar
1-1/3 c margarine
1/2 t vanilla extract
2/3 c peanut butter
1/2 t salt
1 c water
Mix in large bowl:
12 c rolled oats
1 t cinnamon
Pour wet ingredients over dry and mix quickly and well.
Put onto two small greased cookie sheets.
Bake at 325 degrees for 25 minutes.
Exchange cookie sheets in oven, cook 10 minutes.
Turn oven off and let granola dry for several hours.
Store in closed jar on kitchen counter and watch it disappear.

Homemade ( and green) disinfectant

2009-04-26T06:25:00.000-07:00

All-Purpose Cleaner/Disinfectant

Tea tree oil and thyme essential oils are antiseptic, antifungal, antiviral and are great for use in the home.
(I just got 4 oz. of tea tree oil off ebay for $8) I actually read that it is 5 times stronger than typical household disinfectants.
I also found when researching this oil on the internet that this would be a very valuable thing to have in your first aid kits. Seriously, read up on this stuff, it sounds quite amazing.

Ingredients

* 2 tablespoons borax
* 1/4 cup lemon juice
* 2 cups hot water
* 20 drops tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) or thyme essential oils (Thymus vulgaris)

Directions

Combine the borax and lemon juice with the water in a spray bottle.

Cap and shake well to dissolve the mineral.

Add the tea tree (or thyme) oil and shake again to disperse the oil.

Use as you would any commercial all-purpose cleaner.

Also, what about making homemade wipes by using a baby wipe container and those select a size paper towels?

Inexpensive Homemade Cleaning Products

2009-04-23T12:11:00.000-07:00

I am trying to lower my grocery bill.....and I think that making my own cleaning supplies might help. Here are some recipes that I have found. Most are the old standby's , baking soda and vinegar. But hey, they've worked for a million years and they still work! ANDY BY THE WAY IF ANY OF YOU HAVE SOME GOOD CLEANING RECIPES...PLEASE SHARE THEM WITH US!!!

SUPPLIES
Baking soda
Washing soda
White distilled vinegar
A good liquid soap or detergent
Tea tree oil
olive oil or jojoba oil
clean spray bottles ( I am just using my old windex bottles that I've rinsed out.

Note: I get all my essential oils off ebay for pretty darn cheap. Just make sure they are 100% pure essential oils. They go a LONG way and can be used for tons of different things. For instance I use the jojoba oil for an inexpensive conditioner for our hair! (You can also add the tea tree oil to your shampoo ...it's good for your scalp.)

CREAMY SOFT SCRUBBER
Simply pour about 1/2 cup of baking soda into a bowl, and add enough liquid detergent to make a texture like frosting. Scoop the mixture onto a sponge, and wash the surface. This is the perfect recipe for cleaning the bathtub because it rinses easily and doesn’t leave grit.

WINDOW CLEANER
1/4-1/2 teaspoon liquid detergent
3 tablespoons vinegar
2 cups water
Spray bottle

Put all the ingredients into a spray bottle, shake it up a bit, and use as you would a commercial brand. The soap in this recipe is important. It cuts the wax residue from the commercial brands you might have used in the past.

OVEN CLEANER
1 cup or more baking soda
Water
A squirt or two of liquid detergent

Sprinkle water generously over the bottom of the oven, then cover the grime with enough baking soda that the surface is totally white. Sprinkle some more water over the top. Let the mixture set overnight. You can easily wipe up the grease the next morning because the grime will have loosened. When you have cleaned up the worst of the mess, dab a bit of liquid detergent or soap on a sponge, and wash the remaining residue from the oven. If this recipe doesn’t work for you it is probably because you didn’t use enough baking soda and/or water.

ALL-PURPOSE SPRAY CLEANER
1/2 teaspoon washing soda
A dab of liquid soap
2 cups hot tap water

Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake until the washing soda has dissolved. Apply and wipe off with a sponge or rag.

FURNITURE POLISH
1/2 teaspoon oil, such as olive (or jojoba, a liquid wax)
1/4 cup vinegar or fresh lemon juice
Mix the ingredients in a glass jar. Dab a soft rag into the solution and wipe onto wood surfaces. Cover the glass jar and store indefinitely.

Mold Killer
Tea Tree Treasure
Nothing natural works for mold and mildew as well as this spray. Tea tree oil is expensive, but a little goes a very long way. Although the smell of tea tree oil is very strong, it will dissipate in a few days.

2 teaspoons tea tree oil
2 cups water

Combine in a spray bottle, shake to blend, and spray on problem areas. Do not rinse. Makes two cups.

Vinegar Spray
Straight vinegar reportedly kills 82 percent of mold. Pour some white distilled vinegar straight into a spray bottle, spray on the moldy area, and let set without rinsing if you can put up with the smell. It will dissipate in a few hours.

Creamy Chicken -n- Broccoli Pasta Bake

2009-04-23T11:45:00.000-07:00

This is seriously one of the BEST pasta dishes EVER!!!

1-1/2 cups of your favorite pasta - cooked
1 small bunch broccoli, chopped (about 3 cups)
1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup chicken broth
1 cube (8 0z) cream cheese
2 Tbsp. Parmesan Cheese
Cracker Crumbs

Put Chicken breast, and broth in your crockpot. Cook several hours until chicken is cooked through. Cut the chicken into pieces. Add cream cheese for last hour of cooking time. Stir occasionally.
HEAT oven to 375ºF. Cook pasta in large saucepan as directed on package, adding broccoli for the last 3 min.

DRAIN pasta and broccoli. Add to chicken mixture; mix lightly. Sprinkle with bread or cracker crumbs. Spoon into 8-inch sq. casserole dish; cover.

BAKE 15 min. or until heated through. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheeses. Bake, uncovered, 3 min. or until melted.

2009-04-14T22:24:00.001-07:00

Creamy Grape Salad
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
1/3 cup Cane Sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 pounds seedless red grapes
2 pounds seedless green grapes
3 tablespoons Brown Sugar
3 tablespoons chopped pecans
Directions:
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, sugar and vanilla until blended. Add grapes and toss to coat. Transfer to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Sprinkle with brown sugar and pecans just before serving. Yield: 21-24 servings.

San Fransisco Style Pizza Crust

2009-04-10T18:03:00.000-07:00

I've been looking long and hard...and I finally found it...the PERFECT pizza crust. All it takes is a little planning ahead. It is as good or better than the pizza we've had at some gourmet pizzerias, and a whole lot cheaper.

2 1/4 C. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. yeast
2 T. olive oil
1 C. ICE COLD water
2 tsp. sugar
Cornmeal for dusting
Combine these ingredients in mixer and knead until dough follows mixer blade around the bowl. (Usually about 10 min.) Watch the dough, and if it seems too dry add 1 T. more water at a time until a soft, elastic dough forms. Cover, and put in refrigerator OVERNIGHT!!! The next day, take the dough out of fridge 2-4 hours before dinnertime. Punch it down and let it raise again. Roll out onto pizza stone that has been dusted with cornmeal. Let rest for 30 min. Bake at 425 for 10 min. Remove from oven and top with toppings. Return to oven for 10-15 min.
Doubling the recipe would give you enough for a pan of yummy breadsticks too!
Also - try using alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a nice change.

Butterscotch Cookies with Burnt Butter Icing

2009-04-06T14:43:00.000-07:00

1/2 c butter
1 1/2 c brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 c flour
1 tsp soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 c sour cream
1 c walnuts if desired

Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla. Add dry ingredients alternately with sour cream. Chill dough for a couple of hours and bake for 8-10min at 375 degrees. Cool and frost.

Frosting
Melt 6 Tbsp butter over medium heat and cook until golden brown. Cool. Mix in 2 cups powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla. Add 2-3 Tbsp water a little at a time until spreading consistency.

Yogurt Fruit Salad

2009-04-05T14:14:00.000-07:00

1 (32 oz) vanilla yogurt
1 (8 oz) Cool Whip
1 large pkg instant vanilla pudding
1 pkg frozen mixed berries
1 box vanilla wafers

Add yogurt, whip cream, vanilla pudding, mix well. Add berries. Serve with vanilla wafers.

Chocolate Zuchini Bread

2009-03-25T10:10:00.000-07:00

Yes I realize this recipe is a little out of season...but I am cleaning out my freezer currently, and it was DARN good! I made it as mini muffins, and as bread. The bread was WAY moister!

* 2 (1 ounce) squares unsweetened chocolate
(can substitute 6 T. cocoa + 2 T shortening)
* 3 eggs
* 2 cups white sugar
* 1 cup vegetable oil
* 2 cups grated zucchini
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees . Lightly grease two 9x5 inch loaf pans. In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave chocolate until melted. Stir occasionally until chocolate is smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine eggs, sugar, oil, grated zucchini, vanilla and chocolate; beat well. Stir in the flour baking soda, salt. Fold in the chocolate chips. Pour batter into prepared loaf pans.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a loaf comes out clean.

Chocolate Chip Cookies

2009-03-09T11:49:00.001-07:00

These are really simple cookies that always turn out well.

1 cup butter (I use 1/2 butter and 1/2 shortening)
1/2 cup white sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
1 tsp soda
1 tsp salt
2 1/2 to 3 cups flour
chocolate chips

Cream butter and sugars. Add eggs and vanilla. Then add dry ingredients and chocolate chips. Bake at 350 until lightly browned. I think it's about 8 to 10 minutes but I am very bad about using a timer.

Oatmeal Pancakes

2009-03-09T11:44:00.001-07:00

Marci has repeatedly asked me to post this recipe, and finally I have gotten around to it. Sorry Marci. Here it is:

1 cup flour (white or wheat)
1 1/2 cup oatmeal (I use oatmeal flour)
2 TBSP brown sugar
2 TBSP baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups buttermilk or sour milk
3 eggs beaten
1/4 cup canola oil

Mix dry ingredients together and then add to wet ingredients. Cook on griddle until lightly browned.

Cream Cheese Muffins

2009-03-06T13:29:00.000-08:00

3 c. flour
3/4 c. sugar
4 tsp. baking powder
A pinch of salt
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. melted butter
1 c. milk

Sift first four ingredients together into a large mixing bowl. In blender mix cream cheese, eggs, vanilla and milk. Slowly add melted butter and continue blending until mixture is smooth.

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients; add wet mixture and stir with a fork just until moistened. Don't overmix. Batter will be thick. Pour into greased muffin tins. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes.

These are great with blueberries, or chocolate chips, or just plain with jam! Also works great as mini-muffins (I cook the minis for about 12 minutes ....my kids prefer them.)

Lucky Charms Bars recipe

2009-03-03T15:45:00.000-08:00

I know this one is probably so easy that most people wouldn't even need a recipe...but I have a disorder with anything related to marshmallows, and my kids LOVE these, so here it is!

Lucky Charms Bars recipe

3 tablespoons butter or margarine
25 large marshmallows or 3 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
5 cups Lucky Charms cereal

Grease an 8-inch or 9-inch square pan 9 x 2 inch pan.

Place butter and marshmallows in large microwave bowl. Microwave uncovered on
HIGH for 1
minute and 30 seconds to 3 minutes, stirring after 1 minute until mixture is
melted and
smooth when stirred. Stir in cereal until well coated. Press mixture into
prepared pan;
cool.

Cut into about 2-inch square bars.

Makes 16 bars.

Rice Pattie Pancakes

2009-02-17T09:08:00.000-08:00

These are Shay's favorite! I got the recipe from his momma!

2 c. COLD cooked rice
2 eggs
1 T. sugar
Mix all together in a bowl and fry on hot, greased griddle just like you would a normal pancake.
Serve hot with butter and sugar or jam.
Makes about 8 pancakes...but they're very filling.

This is what I always make with my leftover rice after I've made hawaiian haystacks!
Enjoy.

Au Gratin Potatoes

2009-02-07T12:56:00.000-08:00

These are DELICIOUS!!! Much better than the boxed kind you can buy!

2 lbs. potatoes sliced thinly (about 6 medium potatoes)
1/3 c. diced onions. (onion powder can be substituted if you need to)
1/4 cup butter
1 T. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 c. milk
2 1/2 c. shredded cheese

Combine onions and butter in saucepan over med. heat. Add flour, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture starts to bubble. Remove from heat. Stir in milk and 1 1/2 c. cheese. Heat to boiling, stirring constantly. Pour cheese sauce over potatoes in ungreased casserole dish. Bake uncovered at 375 for 45 min - 1 hr. Pull out, sprinkle remaining cheese onto potatoes, and continue baking until cheese is brown and bubbly.

French Bread or Chewy Pizza Crust

2009-01-20T13:06:00.000-08:00

(From a friend of Marci...slightly tweaked to work for me)

2 cups water
2 cups flour
2 T. instant yeast
2 T. sugar
2 T. oil
1 T. salt
6 cups flour
1 1/2 cup warm water

Sponge: Mix 2 cups flour and 2 cups water together in your mixer , to make a sponge in the evening. Cover and let sit covered at room temperature over night. (or make the sponge in the morning for dinner bread. You can let the sponge sit out for up to a day and a half. 6 Hour minimum is best.) If I set out the sponge and then find I don't use it the next day I just put it in the fridge until I want to use it.

French Bread: In the morning add yeast, sugar, 3 cups flour, salt, oil and 1 1/2 cup warm water. Mix together (don't knead yet) and let rise until double in size. Add remaining 3 c. flour, and knead in your mixer for 10 minutes until dough is very soft and elastic. Shape into two large loaves or four smaller loaves. Spray with water and cut a slit down the dough lengthwise. Let all the loaves rise until double on a single jelly roll pan (cookie sheet) lightly coated with shortening and then corn meal. Bake in oven on the lowest rack at 400 degrees until brown and hard when tapped. About 20 minutes. Spray bread and oven with water several time throughout baking (about every five minutes) to get a hard crust.

Pizza Crust: Follow directions above, letting the dough rise once. (If you don’t have time to let it rise at all just roll it out “as is” and it will still make a good crust.) Roll a portion of it into a pizza crust and top with your favorite toppings. Bake on a pizza stone dusted with corn meal (or a greased and dusted cookie sheet) at 425 on the bottom rack of your oven. Makes about 2-3 Large crusts.

*If you don't use all the dough you can leave it covered in the fridge and roll it out for pizza again the next night. You can also store it in the freezer in a bag sprayed with cooking spray.

*This recipe makes great dinner rolls, hamburger buns, bread sticks or anything else you can think of.

Ready Spaghetti Marinara Sauce

2009-01-19T17:00:00.000-08:00

1 T. olive oil
2 cans (15 oz.) tomato sauce
1/2 tsp. oregano
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
2 tsp. chopped onion
3 T. brown sugar

Combine and simmer in crockpot or sauce pan. The longer the better...but 10 minutes in a saucepan will do if you're rushed.

I like to simmer meatballs in this and serve hot meatball subs with mozzarella!
(and I just make some spaghetti noodles for the kids so everybody's happy!)

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

2009-01-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups old-fashioned oats
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup golden raisins

Directions:
In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Combine the oats, flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in walnuts and raisins. Drop by tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool. Yield: 5 dozen.

Pizza Casserole

2009-01-11T09:05:00.000-08:00

3 cups uncooked spiral pasta
2 pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cans (8 ounces each) mushroom stems and pieces, drained
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 jar (14 ounces) pizza sauce
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
4 cups (16 ounces) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided
1 package (3-1/2 ounces) sliced pepperoni
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a Dutch oven, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the mushrooms, tomato sauce, pizza sauce, tomato paste, sugar and seasonings. Drain pasta; stir into meat sauce. Divide half of the mixture between two greased 11-in. x 7-in. baking dishes; sprinkle each with 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers. Top each with pepperoni and Parmesan cheese. Cover and bake at 350° for 20 minutes. Uncover; bake 10-15 minutes longer or until heated through. Yield: 2 casseroles (8 servings each).

Gingersnaps

2008-12-10T13:22:00.000-08:00

These are currently Alex and Sam's favorite cookies. They are small, thin, and chewy. I'm not usually a big gingersnap fan, but I love these.

1 cup sugar
3/4 cup real butter
1 egg
1/4 cup light molasses
2 cups flour
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp ginger
2 tsp baking soda

Cream sugar, butter, egg, and molasses well. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Drop walnut sized balls on cookie sheet and bake at 350 for 5-8 minutes.

Cheesecake Bars

2008-12-04T19:37:00.001-08:00

Cheesecake Bars
INGREDIENTS
1/3 cup butter, softened
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup chopped walnuts (I omitted these)
1 cup sifted all-purpose flour
1/4 cup white sugar
8 ounces cream cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons milk
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 c. caramel ice cream topping

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F(175 degrees C).
To make Pastry: Cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the flour and chopped nuts and stir until mixture becomes crumbly. Press pastry mixture into 8-inch square pan and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool on rack.
To make Filling: Beat together the white sugar, and cream cheese until smooth. Stir in the egg, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla and mix well. Spread filling mixture over baked crust. Spoon on caramel and swirl through with a knife. (You could substitute jam or fudge if you'd rather try a different flavor.) Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. (Longer if you double the filling) Let cool on wire rack and refrigerate.

Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins

2008-12-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

INGREDIENTS
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup plain yogurt (you can substitute sour cream)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe bananas
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In another bowl, combine the egg, oil, yogurt and vanilla. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in bananas and chocolate chips. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350 degrees F for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks.

Best Ever White Bread

2008-11-23T19:22:00.000-08:00

This is by far the best bread recipe I have ever used. Light fluffy, and moist! My family went crazy for it.

INGREDIENTS
3 cups warm water
3 Tablespoons active dry yeast
3 teaspoons salt
4 Tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
1/2 cup white sugar
2 Tablespoons Vital Wheat Gluten
2 Tablespoons Potato Flakes – if using wheat flour
2 – 3 Tablespoons White Vinegar - if using wheat flour
8 cups bread flour

DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, salt, oil, sugar, Gluten, Potato Flakes, Vinegar and 4 cups flour. Mix thoroughly, (DON’T TRY AND KNEAD IT YET!) and let sponge rise until doubled in size. Usually about an hour. (This is what helps the bread to be crusty)
Gradually add about 4 cups flour, kneading until smooth and elastic. Add more water if needed. ( Knead Approximately 10-12 minutes in a mixer.) Place dough in a greased bowl, and turn several times to coat. Cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise until doubled. Punch down the dough. Divide dough into three equal parts. Shape into loaves, and place in three greased bread pans. Let rise until almost doubled.
Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 45 minutes. Brush tops of loaves with melted butter. YUMMY!!!

Thanks and a shout out

2008-11-12T16:38:00.000-08:00

Michelle and Melissa, thanks so much for these yummy recipes. I can't wait to try them.

Also, if you haven't visited this website before, you need to!

It is Everyday Food Storage and this week she has recipes to make Cream of Chicken soup and Cream of Mushroom soup. I'm so excited to try them and save a little bit of money in the process!

www.everydayfoodstorage.net

Happy Cooking!

Almost like Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

2008-11-12T11:52:00.003-08:00

I don't usually make doughnuts, but I came across this recipe and it is really easy and my kids and husband loved them!

2 envelopes yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water
1 1/2 cup lukewarm milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
2 eggs
1/3 cup shortening
5 cups flour
oil for frying

Mix together yeast mixture, milk, sugar, salt, eggs, shortening, and 2 cups of the flour. Beat in remaining flour slowly until dough no longer sticks to the bowl. Let dough raise until double. Roll dough out and cut with doughnut cutter. Let doughnuts rise until double. Fry in oil at 350 degrees until golden brown. Drain on wire rack and dip into glaze while still warm.

Glaze:
1/3 cup butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
4 tbsp hot water as needed

Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat, stir in sugar and vanilla until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in hot water one tbsp at a time until icing is thin but not watery.

Soft Gingerbread Men

2008-11-12T11:45:00.001-08:00

Marci asked me to post my gingerbread men recipe--so here it is. It makes really soft good cookies.

3 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp ginger
1/4 tsp cloves
1 cup butter (I use 1/2 butter and 1/2 shortening)
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1/2 cup molasses

Cream sugar and butter, add egg and molasses. Mix together dry ingredients and add to creamed mixture. Chill dough for about one hour and then roll out and cut into shapes. Bake at
350 for about 8-10 minutes. Do not let overbrown or they will be hard.

My Kids Favorite Lasagna

2008-11-10T18:22:00.000-08:00

1 lb. ground beef
1 T. Italian Seasoning
2 cans (10 3/4 oz each) Tomato Soup
1 soup can water
1/2 of a 16 oz package corkscrew pasta (rotini)
1 container cottage cheese ( 15 oz)
1 package mozzarella cheese

Cook the beef and Italian Seasoning until browned. Stir the soup, water, and pasta into a 13x9 casserole dish. Add the beef mixture and cottage cheese. Stir to coat. Cover. Bake at 375 for 30 min. Uncover...Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and continue baking until cheese is bubbly. Cool before serving because this stuff stays like molten LAVA!!!!

My kids and my dear husband LOVE this stuff! It is way easier for them to eat than traditional lasagna and requires no cutting it up on my part :)

Chocolate Marble Cake

2008-10-08T07:17:00.000-07:00

Mix 1 german choc cake mix. Put in greased cookie sheet.
then mix: 8 oz cream cheese
1/2 c sugar
1 egg
Drop in blobs all over cake mix
sprinkle 1 cup chocolate chips on top.

Bake at 350* for 25 min

Caramel Apples

2008-10-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

We went to a carnival at Carson's school on Saturday and they were serving caramel apples. It was a different way and very yummy.

Core and wedge one to two apples. Cut in chunks. Place in bowl. Slice a banana on top. Spread warm caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle nuts on top.

Delicious!!!

I'm thinking our next family home evening treat!

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Pot Roast

2008-09-16T15:05:00.000-07:00

METHOD: Slow Cooker

Ingredients:

1 pound medium red potatoes, quartered
1 cup fresh baby carrots
1 boneless beef chuck roast (3 to 4 pounds)
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons dried rosemary, crushed
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup chopped onion
1-1/2 cups beef broth
Directions: Place potatoes and carrots in a 5-qt. slow cooker. Cut roast in half. In a small bowl, combine the mustard, rosemary, garlic salt, thyme and pepper; rub over roast. Place in slow cooker; top with onion and broth. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until meat and vegetables are tender. Yield: 6-8 servings.

Mini meatloaves

2008-09-12T10:33:00.001-07:00

These are really easy, but really good too!

1 lb. hamburger
1 pkg. stove top stuffing mix
1 c. water

Heat oven to 375. Mix meat, stuffing mix, and water.
Press into 12 muffin cups sprayed with cooking spray.
Make an indentation in the center of each meatloaf with spoon. Fill with sauce. Top with shredded cheese.
Bake 30 min. or until cooked through.
Sauce options :
Barbecue sauce
tomato soup
spaghetti sauce
salsa

Mini Maple Cinnamon Rolls

2008-09-03T11:18:00.000-07:00

These are a great size for kids or for a little snack!

2/3 c. warm milk
1/3 c. maple syrup
1/3 c. butter, softened
1 egg
3/4 tsp. salt
3 c. bread flour
1 1/4 Tbsp. yeast

Filling:
1/2 c. packed brown sugar
2 T. flour
2 teaspoons cinnamon
6 T. butter

Maple Icing:
1 c. powdered sugar
3 T. melted butter
3 T. maple syrup
1 - 2 tsp. milk

Combine yeast, milk, and syrup and butter. Let sit 2-3 min. Add egg, salt and flour. Mix in mixer for at least 10 minutes. Check dough after 5 minutes and add water or flour if needed. Let raise until double, twice.

Roll into two rectangles. In small bowl combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon, and cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle half over each rectangle. Roll up starting from a long side. Pinch seam to seal.
Cut each roll into 12 slices. Place cut side down in greased 13x9 pan. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled.
Bake at 375 for 20-25 minutes.
Frost with maple icing while rolls are still hot.

Banana Cookies

2008-07-31T19:03:00.000-07:00

Kristi gave me this recipe and we all LOVE IT!

Cream together:
1/4 c. shortening
1/4 c. butter
1 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
1 c. mashed bananas

Add
2 c. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
Chocolate chips
Refrigerate 1 hour
Bake 375 for about 10 minutes
Frosting
1/3 c. butter
3 c. powdered sugar
2 T. milk
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 T. cocoa

Chicken Enchiladas III

2008-07-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

This is from Better Homes and Garden Cookbook, 1989 Edition. My friend, Dave Drowns, makes enchiladas with this recipe. They are so delicious.

8 flour tortillas
1/2 cup chopped onion
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground coriander
1/4 tsp pepper
2 Tbsp butter
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1 8-ounce carton sour cream
2 cups chicken broth
1 4-ounce can diced green chili peppers, drained
1 cup shredded cheese
2 cups chopped chicken (or turkey)

For sauce, in a saucepan cook onion, garlic, coriander, and pepper in butter til onion is tender. Stir flour into sour cream; add to onion mixture. Stir in broth and diced chili peppers all at once. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat, stir in 1/2 cup cheese.

For filling, stir 1/2 cup of sauce into chicken. Place about 1/4 cup filling on each tortilla, spread around and roll up. Arrange rolls seam side down in a lightly greased 13x 9 baking dish. Top with remaining sauce. Bake, covered, in a 350 degree oven about 35 minutes or until heated through.

Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, about five minutes more until cheese melts. Can sprinkle with olives, tomatoes and green onions. Let stand 10 minutes.

Chicken Enchiladas II

2008-07-29T08:33:00.001-07:00

Creamy Chicken and Chile Enchiladas

I found this recipe on the back of the green chile enchilada sauce can and it is GREAT!

1 pound uncooked chicken breast strips
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cut into cubes
1 can (4.5 ounces) chopped green chiles
1 package (12 count) flour tortillas for soft tacos and fajitas
2 cans (10 ounces each) green chile enchilada sauce
¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese (3 ounces)

Heat oven to 400°. Lightly grease 13x9x2-9-inch baking dish.

Cook chicken in 10-inch skillet over medium high heat, stirring occasionally, until no longer pink in center. Add cream cheese and chiles; reduce heat to medium. Cook and stir until blended and cream cheese is melted.

Spoon chicken filing onto tortillas; roll up and place seam side down in baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over top; sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until hot and cheese is melted.

Chicken Enchiladas I

2008-07-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

This is a recipe that Michelle started making when we were in college... It is yummy. I'm going off of memory so hopefully I don't forget anything.

1 can shredded chicken or 1 lb of chicken, cooked and chopped or use Mexican Chicken
1 4-ounce can diced chilies
2 cups shredded cheese
1 package flour tortillas (enchilada or fajita size)
1 can cream of chicken soup
milk

Mix chicken, chilis and 1/2 cup of cheese together. Spread 1/4 cup of filling on tortilla. Roll up and place seam side down in 13 x 9 baking pan.

Mix 1 can cream of chicken soup and milk together, to consistency of sauce. Pour over enchiladas. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Bake at 350 degrees until bubbly.

Sloppy Jo's

2008-07-29T08:17:00.000-07:00

I found this recipe in the "Heart and Soul" cookbook from Moreland 4th Ward published in 2001 or 2002. This recipe was submitted by Karen Hunt and it's one of the best I've found for Sloppy Jo's.

1 1/2 lb hamburger
2 Tbsp dried onions
1 cup chopped celery
1 can tomato soup
1 small can tomato sauce (8 oz)
1 Tbsp sugar
1 Tbsp chili powder

Crumble and brown hamburger,onion and celery in pan. After browning is complete, add soup, sauce, sugar and chili powder. Stir together and heat thoroughly. Serve hot on hamburger buns.

Almond Coconut Brownies

2008-07-22T08:26:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
1-1/2 cups butter
4 squares (1 ounce each) unsweetened chocolate
2-1/4 cups sugar
3 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup all-purpose flour
3/4 cup chopped slivered almonds
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
FILLING:
1 cup sugar
1 cup milk
24 large marshmallows
1 package (14 ounces) flaked coconut
TOPPING:
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped slivered almonds, toasted
Directions:
In a microwave, melt butter and chocolate; stir until smooth. Cool slightly. Add sugar. Stir in the eggs, flour, almonds and vanilla. Transfer to a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. In a large saucepan, combine filling ingredients; bring to a boil. Pour over cooled brownies. In another saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sugar, butter and milk; bring to a boil. Spoon over the filling. Sprinkle with almonds. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or until set. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 4 dozen.

No Fuss Strawberry Bars

2008-07-10T06:49:00.000-07:00

1/2 cup butter softened
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 package white cake mix
1 cup crushed corn flakes ( I used 1 cup finely blended oatmeal)
1 cup strawberry jam (or jam of your choice)

Cream butter and sugar. Add egg and mix well. Add dry cake mix and cornflakes. Press half of dough in 9 X 13 pan. Spread jam over dough and top with remaining dough. Press down to form top crust. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Lime slush

2008-06-24T10:43:00.000-07:00

6 oz frozen lime-aid
9 c. water
3 c. sugar

Mix and freeze. Take from freezer 1/2 hour before serving and add 2 - 2 liters of sprite. Float a lime and a cherry.

This tastes just as good with diet Sprite for less sugar! Yummy!

Soggy-Bottom Biscuits

2008-06-13T06:30:00.001-07:00

1/2 cup butter
1 cup orange juice (you can use any flavor)
1 cup sugar

Bring to boil and pour into 9x13 pan.

2 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
3 tsp baking powder
3-4 Tbsp shortening
3/4 cup milk

Cut shortening into flour and salt. Mix in milk. Roll out and cut into circles. Place on juice mixture. Bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes.

You can also double the recipe if you like it a little more gooey.

Whatchamacallits

2008-04-22T13:56:00.000-07:00

The recipe I got this from actually called them O'Henry's...but I already have a recipe called O'Henry's that's nothing like these and these remind me totally of the Whatchamacallit candy bars....so hence the name I picked.

1 c. Karo syrup
1 c. sugar
1 c. peanuts (chopped)
1 c. peanut butter
3 c. Rice Krispies
1/2 pkg. chocolate chips
1/2 pkg. peanut butter chips

Stir together Karo syrup and sugar. Microwave for 2 minutes. Add peanuts and peanut butter to the Karo mixture. Microwave everything for 1 minute. Add 3 cups of Rice Krispies. Spread into a greased 9" x 13" pan.

Combine chocolate chips and peanut butter chipsin a bowl and microwave for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Spread over krispie mixture and cool in the refrigerator.

Easy Alfredo Sauce

2008-04-22T05:57:00.000-07:00

1/2 c. butter
1 (8 oz) Package Cream Cheese
2 tsp. garlic powder
2 c. milk
6 oz. grated parmesan cheese
ground black pepper (optional)
Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat. Add cream cheese and garlic powder, stirring with wire whisk until smooth. Add milk slowly, stirring continuously. Stir in parmesan. Remove from heat when sauce reaches the consistency you want. Remember it will thicken very rapidly when cooled. If you overcook...thin with milk.

I like to serve this with chicken and fettucine noodles. I marinate the chicken tenders in zesty italian dressing and then either grill or sautee them...slice...and serve over the noodles.

Cinnamon Honey Butter

2008-03-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup softened butter
1 tbsp cinnamon

Combine in a bowl. Spread over biscuits, rolls, french toast or waffles.

Off the McCormick bottle.

Lemon Pepper Butter

2008-03-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

1/2 cup softened butter or margarine
1 tbsp Lemon Pepper seasoning

Combine in bowl, cover and chill for 1/2 hour. Use on baked potatoes, hot cooked pasta or crsiply cooked vegetables.

**Pampered Chef Recipe**

Sweet Breakfast Spread

2008-03-27T15:59:00.001-07:00

1 package (8 oz) softened cream cheese
1 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Combine in a bowl. Spread on taosted bagels or English muffins, banana bread or apple wedges.

**Pampered Chef recipe**

Garlic Bread Spread

2008-03-27T15:53:00.000-07:00

1/4 cup margarine or butter
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
1 tbsp oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 tbsp dried parsley

Spread on bread and broil.

Delicious!!!

From the McCormick bottle of garlic powder...

Quilt Give Away

2008-03-19T04:57:00.000-07:00

Go to this blog : Old Red Barn Co.

Leave a comment and you may win this quilt. Isn't it beautiful? The picture is also on the side bar...

I know this isn't about food, but hey, wouldn't it be nice to win?

Cool Caramel Dessert

2008-03-14T16:27:00.000-07:00

Pam brought me this for my birthday and it is the best ice-cream dessert I've ever eaten!!!

1/2 cup brown sugar
2 cups flour
2 sticks melted butter
1/2 cup oatmeal
1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup chopped pecans
1 jar Mrs. Richardson's caramel butterscotch topping
1/2 gal. vanilla ice cream

Mix first 6 ingredients together and place on foiled cookie sheet. Bake 10 mnutes at 400 degrees or until golden brown. While still hot, separate with a fork until you have a pan of crumbs. Sprinkle 1/2 of crumbs in a 9 X 13 pan. Drizzle half of the caramel topping over crumbs. Take vanilla ice cream and cut into squares and spread evenly. Sprinkle rest of crumbs and topping over ice cream. Cover and freeze.

Chocolate-Vanilla Pinwheel Cookies

2008-03-14T09:29:00.000-07:00

1 cup butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 cups flour
2 oz. unsweetened chocolate melted

Beat butter on high for 30 seconds. Add sugar, baking powder, and salt and beat until combined. Beat in egg and vanilla until combined and then mix in flour. Divide dough in half. Add chocolate to one portion of dough. Roll out chocolate dough between sheets of waxed paper into rectangle shape about 1/4 in. thick. Roll out plain dough and place on top of chocolate dough. Roll up jelly-roll style (Lengthwise) and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill dough for at least 2 hours. Cut roll into 1/4 in. slices and bake on ungreased cookie sheet for 7 to 9 min. at 375. Do not overcook.

Time for a change...

2008-03-13T19:45:00.000-07:00

Well, I decided to change the blog... Hope you like the new look. If not let me know. I'm always welcome to suggestions! Also, thanks everyone for posting your recipes. Can't wait to try all of them!

Chocolate Oat Squares

2008-03-13T10:09:00.000-07:00

1 c. plus 2 Tbsp. butter or margarine, softened, divided
2 c. packed brown sugar
2 eggs
4 tsp. vanilla extract, divided
3 c. quick-cooking aots
2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. salt, divided
1 tsp. baking soda
1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
2 c. (12 oz.) semisweet chocolate chips
1 c. chopped walnuts

In a mixing bowl, cream 1 c. butter and brown sugar. Beat in eggs and 2 tsp. vanilla. Combine the oats, flour, 1 teaspoon salt and baking soda in a separate bowl; stir into creamed mixture. Press 2/3 of oat mixture into a greased 9" x 13" baking stone (or pan). It's also fine in an 8" x 8" pan. You'll just have taller squares.

In a saucepan combine milk, chocolate chips and remaining butter and salt. Cook and stir over low heat until chocolate is melted. Remove from the heat; stir in walnuts and remaining vanilla. Spread over the crust. Sprinkle with remaining oat mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool. Cut into squares.

Yield: 4 dozen.

CHEX MUDDY BUDDIES

2008-03-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

1 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 c. powdered sugar
1/2 c. peanut butter

1 c. semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 c. butter*
9 c. Chex cereal (any variety)

Measure cereal into large bowl; set aside. Microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter in 1-quart microwavable bowl, uncovered on High 1 minute; stir. Microwave 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour chocolate mixture over cereal in bowl, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into large plastic food-storage bag; add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until well coated. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.

*Do not use spread or tub products.

Pretzel Hugs

2008-03-09T12:53:00.000-07:00

This is the easiest snack ever.

PRETZEL HUGS

1 bag pretzels (the waffle shaped ones)
1 pkg. M&Ms
1 pkg. Hershey "Hugs"

Place pretzels on baking stone or sheet. Place a Hug on each pretzel and bake at 200 degrees for about 8 minutes (just watch for the Hugs to melt). Remove from oven and promptly place a couple of M&Ms on each pretzel, pressing into the melted chocolate. Allow to cool before serving. At room temperature, this takes SEVERAL hours.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

2008-03-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP MUFFINS

1 c. flour
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 eggs, beaten
1 c. ground pumpkin (canned)
1/2 c. cooking oil
1/3 c. chocolate chips

Mix together. Fill muffin cups and bake at 350 for 20-25 minutes.

Broccoli and Cheese Soup

2008-02-24T07:36:00.001-08:00

From my good friend Robyn Jugganaikloo, Rexburg, Idaho

4-5 cubed potatoes
2 cubed carrots
1 cup chopped onion
4-6 bullion cubes
One package of frozen chopped broccoli (or broccoli florets)

Cook above ingredients together until potatoes are tender (12-15 min)

Mix together:
½ cup melted margarine
½ cup flour
½ tsp pepper
1 tbsp dry mustard
2 c milk

Pour over cooked vegetables stir and let thicken a little.

Add 2 lbs Velveeta cheese cut in cubes

Heat until cheese melts.

This is the best soup!!!!

Sugar Cookies

2008-02-16T14:04:00.000-08:00

1 cup butter--no substitutes
1 cup sugar
3 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
3 1/2 cup flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs and vanilla and then mix in dry ingredients. Chill dough for at least an hour, then roll out and cut. Bake at 375 for about 8-10 minutes. If you want them to be soft, do not overbake.

Baked Pears with Rum and Cream

2008-02-14T10:17:00.000-08:00

So good!

4 firm ripe pears (peeled, halved and cored)
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup dark rum
1/2 cup whipping cream
vanilla ice cream

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Arrange pears, cut side down, in a baking dish.

2. In small saucepan melt butter and stir in brown sugar and rum. Pour over pears, moving pears around to coat. Bake 40 minutes, basting frequently.

3. Remove from oven and pour cream over pears. Continue baking 15-20 minutes. Place in individual serving bowls and spoon hot sauce over pears. May be served with vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.

Straw and Hay Pasta with Peas and Prosciutto

2008-02-14T10:15:00.000-08:00

This is really good with the Filet Mignon with Blackberry Sauce.

1 Tbls kosher salt
1 Tbls olive oil
1 Tbls unsalted butter
1/2 cup finely minced onion
4 oz thinly sliced Prosciutto, cut into strips
1 cup heavy cream
salt and black pepper
pinch of red pepper (optional)
1 cup shelled peas
6 oz egg fettuccine
6 oz spinach fettuccine
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1. Fill a large pot with water and add the salt. Place the pot over hight heat and bring the water to a rapid boil.

2. Meanwhile, heat a large saute pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and then the butter. When the butter has melted add the onion and saute, stirring continuously until it turns translucent but has not yet begun to brown (about 1 minute). Scatter in the prosciutto strips and cook 1 more minute, stirring continuously to keep the strips separate. Add the cream and simmer.

3. Continue simmering, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon until the sauce is just thick enough to lightly coat the back of the spoon (1-2 minutes). Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with a little salt and pepper if necessary. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Stir in the peas, remove the pan from the heat, and set aside.

4. Add the fettuccine to the boiling water and cook until the pasta is al dente (tender but still slightly chewy). Return the sauce to medium heat. Drain the pasta and immediately add it to the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta thoroughly.

5. Serve immediately, sprinkling each serving with parmesan cheese and a generous grinding of black pepper.

Filet Mignon with Blackberries

2008-02-14T09:47:00.000-08:00

I made this in a cooking class at ISU this week. It is some of the best steak I have ever had!

4-6 filet mignon steaks
salt and black pepper
2 Tbls olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped shallots
1/2 cup dry red wine
1 cup beef broth
3 Tbls blackberry preserves
2 Tbls unsalted butter
fresh blackberries for garnish

1. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel and season generously with salt and pepper. In a heavy skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat until almost smoking. Sear the steaks in the hot oil for 3 minutes per side for medium rare. Transfer steaks to a serving plate, tent with foil and let rest.
2. Using the same skillet, saute the shallots for 1 minute. Add the red wine, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pan. Let wine boil until reduced by half. Add broth and blackberry preserves; return to boil and reduce by half. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. Whisk in the butter. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
3. To serve, drizzle the sauce over the steaks and scatter a few blackberries on the plate.

Ooey-Gooey Peanut Butter Chocolate Brownies

2008-02-07T09:11:00.000-08:00

3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (divided)
1/4 cup butter (melted and cooled)
3/4 cup milk
1 pkg devils food cake mix
1 large egg white (lightly beaten)
1 jar marshmallow cream
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup peanut butter morsels

Combine 1/4 cup cond milk, butter, milk, cake mix, and egg white. Press 2/3 of batter in greased 9x13 pan (layer will be thin). Bake at 350 for 10 min. Combine 1/2 cup cond milk and marshmallow cream. Stir in morsels. Spread mashmallow mix over baked layer. Carefully drop remaining batter by spoonfuls. Bake at 350 for 30 min.

Orange Pineapple Cake

2008-02-07T09:03:00.001-08:00

This is my favorite cake. I do not really like cakes and frosting but this is really light and not at all rich. It always comes out moist. Very Yummy!

CAKE:
2 eggs
1/2 cup applesauce
1 (11 oz) can mandarine oranges-undrained
1 yellow (or white) cake mix

Mix all ingredients and pour into bundt pan. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes (this is what the recipe says but it usually takes longer).

TOPPING:
1 medium can crushed pineapple
1 small package white chocolate (or vanilla) pudding
12 oz Cool Whip

Mix pineapple and pudding together and then combine with cool whip.

Easy Chili

2008-02-06T07:53:00.000-08:00

1 lb hamburger browned with onions
1 large can tomato sauce or tomatoes
1 can kidney beans
2 cans pork and beans
1-2 TBSP chili powder

combine and simmer in crock pot on low

Chicken Enchilada Soup

2008-02-02T20:39:00.000-08:00

Note: Masa Harina is a type of corn flour. It is found at most grocery stores in the flour section

1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup chicken base
3 cups diced yellow onions
2 tsp. ground Cumin
2 tsp. chili powder
2 tsp. granulated garlic
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper (you can double this if you like a little more kick)
2 cups Masa Harina
4 quarts water (divided)
2 cups finely diced tomatoes
1/2 lb. processed American Cheese (cut in small cubes)
3 lb. cooked cubed chicken breast

In a large pot, place oil, chicken base, onion and spices. Saute`until onions are soft and clear, about 5 minutes. In another container, combine Masa Harina with 1 quart water and stir until all lumps dissolve. Add one more quart water and add to sauteed onions and bring to a boil. Once mixture starts to bubble, continue cooking 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This will eliminate any raw taste from the Masa Harina.
Add remainng 2 quarts water to pot. Add tomatoes; let mixture return to boil stirring occasionally.
Add cheese to soup. Cook stirring occasionally until cheese melts. Add chicken; heat through. Makes 6 quarts or 16 to 20 servings.
This soup is great served in bread bowls and or tortilla chips.

Sour Cream Chocolate Potato Cake

2008-02-02T20:23:00.000-08:00

1 cup butter
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 cup cold mashed potatoes
1 tsp. vanilla
2 cups flour
1/3 cup cocoa
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup sour cream

Brown Sugar/Caramel Icing
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 Tbs. cream
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

In mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Blend in potatoes and vanilla. Combine flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt; add alternately with sour cream; blending well after each addition. Pour into 13 x 9 inch cake pan or 2 round 9 inch pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until cake tests done.
Cool on wire rack. Frost with Brown Sugar Icing.

For the Icing: Melt butter, stir in brown sugar and stir until bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in cream. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Beat by hand until frostins is spreading constistency. Immediately spread on cake.