Thursday, December 31, 2009

Day 25: Gingerbread house

For the final day, and it being actually Christmas Day, i cheated a little bit and got the house premade.
gimme a break ok!? 25 days of straight baking wore me out.

Here are a few pics of Isabella having a ball!


Day 24: Snowman Faces

I saved all the cookies with icing for when my niece came to visit, and i knew this one would be a hit!

Snowman Faces


Ingredients
1pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) Betty Crocker® sugar cookie mix
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1egg
1container (12 oz) Betty Crocker® Whipped fluffy white frosting

Red string licorice

Assorted candies
1.
Directions

Heat oven to 375°F. In medium bowl, stir cookie mix, butter and egg until soft dough forms. On ungreased cookie sheets, drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart.
2.Bake 11 to 14 minutes or until edges are light golden brown. Cool 1 minute; remove from cookie sheets to cooling racks. Cool completely, about 15 minutes.
3.Frost and decorate 1 cookie at a time. After spreading frosting on cookie, add licorice for band of earmuffs and candies for ear "covers" and snowman face.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Day 23: Chocolate Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

Chocolate Caramel Thumbprint Cookies

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1 egg, separated
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup baking cocoa
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecans
  • FILLING:
  • 12 to 14 caramels
  • 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon shortening
Directions
  • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolk, milk and vanilla. Combine the flour, cocoa and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until easy to handle.
  • Roll into 1-in. balls. Beat egg white. Place egg whites in a shallow bowl. Place nuts in another shallow bowl. Dip balls into egg white and coat with nuts.
  • Place 2 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Using the end of a wooden spoon handle, make a 3/8-to 1/2-in. indentation in the center of each ball. Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until set. Remove to wire racks to cool.
  • Meanwhile, in a large heavy saucepan, melt caramels with cream over low heat; stir until smooth. Using about 1/2 teaspoon caramel mixture, fill each cookie. In a microwave, melt chocolate chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Drizzle over cookies. Yield: about 2-1/2 dozen.

Day 22: Butterscotch Gingerbread Cookies

Butterscotch Gingerbread Cookies

Ingredients
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 packages (3-1/2 ounces each) cook-and-serve butterscotch pudding mix
  • 3 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and
fluffy. Beat in the eggs. Combine the flour, pudding mixes, ginger,
baking powder and cinnamon; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix
well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until easy to handle.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-in. thickness.
Cut with lightly floured cookie cutters. Place 1 in. apart on
ungreased baking sheets.

Bake at 350° for 6-8 minutes or until firm. Remove to wire racks
to cool. Decorate as desired. Yield: about 2 dozen.

Day 21: Chocolate Dipped Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Cookies



Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup baking cocoa
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped almonds
  • 12 ounces white candy coating disks, melted
  • 12 ounces dark chocolate candy coating disks, melted
  • 2 ounces milk chocolate candy coating disks, melted
Directions
  • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat egg and vanilla. Combine the flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in almonds and chocolate chips. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours. Divide dough in half. Shape into two 8-in. rolls; wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 3 hours or until firm.
  • Unwrap and cut into 1/4-in. slices. Place 2 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 8-10 minutes or until set. Remove to wire racks to cool.
  • Dip half of the cookies in white coating; place on waxed paper. Dip remaining cookies in dark chocolate coating; place on waxed paper. Place milk chocolate coating in a resealable plastic bag; cut a small hole in one corner of the bag. Pipe designs on cookies. Let stand for 30 minutes or until set. Yield: 4-1/2 dozen.

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Day 20: Chocolate Espresso Snowcaps

A Cordeiro Favorite that must be made!

Chocolate Espresso Snowcaps

Ingredients
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
4 teaspoons instant espresso
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2/3 cup packed light-brown sugar
1 large egg
4 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled
1 tablespoon milk
Confectioners' sugar, for coating



Directions


In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa, espresso, baking powder, and salt. With an electric mixer, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg until well combined; mix in cooled chocolate. With mixer on low, gradually add flour mixture; beat in milk until just combined. Flatten dough into a disk; wrap in plastic. Freeze until firm, about 45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Pour confectioners' sugar (about 1/2 cup) into a medium bowl; working in batches, roll balls in sugar two times, letting them sit in sugar between coatings. Place on prepared baking sheets, 2 inches apart.
Bake until cookies have spread and coating is cracked, 12 to 14 minutes; cookies will still be soft to the touch. Cool cookies on a wire rack.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Day 19: Hazelnut Cocoa Coins

If you haven't noticed from these recipes that i've been making, i love hazelnut and chocolate. so any mixture of those is perfect in my book :)

Hazelnut Cocoa Coins
Ingredients
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup finely chopped toasted hazelnuts (filberts)*
  • 6 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon shortening


Directions

1. In a large bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar and salt. Beat until combined, scraping side of bowl occasionally. Beat in egg and cocoa powder until combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour and the hazelnuts.


2. Divide dough in half. Shape each portion of dough into an 11-inch-long roll. Wrap in plastic wrap or waxed paper. Chill for 1 to 2 hours or until firm enough to slice.


3. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Cut rolls into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Place slices 1 inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes or just until tops are firm to the touch. Transfer cookies to a wire rack; let cool.


4. In a small saucepan, combine chocolate and shortening. Cook and stir over low heat until melted and smooth. Generously drizzle melted chocolate over cookies. Let stand until chocolate sets. Makes about 60 cookies.


*Test Kitchen Tip: To toast hazelnuts (filberts), preheat oven to 350°F. Spread nuts in a single layer in a shallow baking pan. Bake in preheated oven about 10 minutes or until toasted, stirring once. Place the warm nuts on a clean kitchen towel. Rub the nuts with the towel to remove the loose skins.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Day 18: Peppermint Meltaways

These little things just melt right in your mouth!

Peppermint Meltaways


Ingredients
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • FROSTING:
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies


Directions
  • In a small bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in extract. Combine flour and cornstarch; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
  • Shape into 1-in. balls. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.
  • In a small bowl, beat butter until fluffy. Add the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and extract; beat until smooth. Spread over cooled cookies; sprinkle with crushed candies. Store in an airtight container. Yield: 3-1/2 dozen.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Day 17: Cookies in a Jar

Today is kind of cheating, but not really!

These make great gifts.

Cookies in a Jar

Ingredients
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup quick-cooking oats
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup chocolate chips

  • ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS: For Giftee to add in
  • 1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
In a 1-qt. glass jar, layer the sugar and brown sugar, packing well between each layer. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; spoon into jar. Top with oats, cranberries and chips. Cover and store in a cool dry place for up to 6 months.

To prepare cookies: Pour cookie mix into a large mixing bowl; stir to combine. Beat in butter, egg and vanilla. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Drop by the tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees F for 8-10 minutes or until browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Day 16: Pineapple Delights

Hubby loves pineapple, so i knew he would LOVE these.

Pineapple Delights


Ingredients
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 can (8 ounces) unsweetened crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup chopped maraschino cherries

Directions
  • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in the pineapple, walnuts and cherries.
  • Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 425° for 7-9 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool. Yield: 7 dozen.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Day 15: Peanut Butter Clusters

I wasn't so sure of the potato chips in this recipe, but it gives it a good crunch!

Peanut Butter Clusters


Ingredients
  • 2 cups of peanut butter chips
  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips
  • 1-1/2 cups dry roasted peanuts
  • 1 cup crushed ridged potato chips
Directions
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt peanut butter chips and chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Stir in peanuts and potato chips. Drop by level tablespoonfuls onto waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Refrigerate until firm. Store in an airtight container.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Day 14: Surprise Crinkles

These contain Milky Ways, so i had no choice but to try them right? ;)
I used the Midnight Milk Ways because dark chocolate is full of antioxidants, yea, that's my story and i'm sticking to it!

oh and warning, these make 9 dozen!! so it's perfect for a swap or to make for your cookie tins for gifts.

Surprise Crinkles



Ingredients
  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 cups packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 4-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 packages (13.3 ounces each) fun-size Milky Way candy bar
Directions
  • In a large bowl, cream the shortening, butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture and mix well.
  • Roll into 1-1/2-in. balls. Cut each candy bar into fourths; push one portion into the center of each ball, completely covering candy with dough. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets.
  • Bake at 350° for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown and surface cracks. Remove to wire racks to cool. Yield: 9 dozen.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Day 13: Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

As i said yesterday, i made one batch of Oatmeal cookies and added different add-ins.

This was a lethal combo that exploded with flavor in your mouth! O.M.G. so good.



Butterscotch Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 tsp. ground cloves (optional)
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups rolled oats
1/4 cups Semisweet Chocolate chip
1/4 cups Butterscotch Chips

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and, if desired, cinnamon and cloves. Beat until combined, scraping side of bowl occasionally. Beat in eggs and vanilla until combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour. Stir in rolled oats. Then add in the chocolate and butterscotch chips.


2. Drop dough by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are golden. Let stand on cookie sheets for 1 minute. Transfer to wire racks and let cool. Makes about 48 cookies.


Saturday, December 12, 2009

Day 12: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

I made one batch of plain oatmeal cookies, and then played with the add ins. Today's and tomorrow's cookies are the product of my experiment :)

Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon (optional)
1/4 tsp. ground cloves (optional)
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups rolled oats

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and, if desired, cinnamon and cloves. Beat until combined, scraping side of bowl occasionally. Beat in eggs and vanilla until combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour. Stir in rolled oats.


2. Drop dough by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are golden. Let stand on cookie sheets for 1 minute. Transfer to wire racks and let cool. Makes about 48 cookies.


TODAYS ADD IN: Raisins-after adding in oats, stir in a 1/2 cup of raisins.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Day 11: Minty Fudge Sandwich Cookies

I was nervous these were going to be chocolate overload, buuuuuuuuut they totally aren't!!!

Minty Fudge Sandwich Cookies

Ingredients

3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
1-1/3 cups butter, softened
1-1/2 cups sugar
1/4 cup cooking oil
2 eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla
Sugar
1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
1 10-ounce package mint-flavor semisweet chocolate pieces*
2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, coarsely chopped

Directions


1. In a medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder; set aside.


2. In a large bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add the 1-1/2 cups sugar and the oil. Beat until well mixed. Add eggs and vanilla; beat until combined. Add flour mixture; beat until combined. Cover and chill about 1 hour or until dough is easy to handle.


3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place balls 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Dip the bottom of a glass in additional sugar and flatten each cookie. Bake in preheated oven for 7 to 9 minutes or just until firm. Transfer cookies to a wire rack; let cool.


4. For filling: In a small saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, chocolate pieces, and unsweetened chocolate. Cook and stir over medium heat until melted and smooth. Remove from heat. Let stand about 1 hour or until cool.


5. Spoon a rounded measuring teaspoon of the filling on the bottom of each of half of the cookies. Top with remaining cookies, flat sides down, pressing lightly together. Makes about 36 sandwich cookies.

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Day 10: Bittersweet Chocolate Biscotti

I've always wanted to learn how to make biscotti, so what better time than during the challenge?

Bittersweet Chocolate Biscotti
Ingredients
1/3 cup butter, softened
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1-2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup toasted hazelnuts (filberts), chopped*
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
6 ounces special dark chocolate, chopped
2 teaspoons shortening

Directions


1. Preheat oven to 375F. Lightly grease a cookie sheet; set aside. Beat butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Beat until combined, scraping side of bowl occasionally. Beat in eggs and cocoa powder. Beat in as much flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in any remaining flour, the hazelnuts, and 4 ounces bittersweet chocolate with a wooden spoon.


2. Divide dough in half. Shape each portion into a 9-inch-long roll. Place rolls 4 inches apart on prepared cookie sheet; slightly flatten each roll to 2 inches wide.


3. Bake in preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted near centers comes out clean. Cool on cookie sheet for 45 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 325F.


4. Cut each roll diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick slices, slicing carefully with a serrated knife. Place slices, cut sides down, on cookie sheet.


5. Bake in 325F oven for 8 minutes. Carefully turn slices over and bake for 7 to 9 minutes more or until dry and crisp. Transfer to wire racks and let cool, about 1 hour.


6. Microwave chopped chocolate and shortening in a small microwave-safe bowl on 50 percent power (medium) for 1 to 2 minutes or until melted, stirring twice. Dip one end of each cookie into melted chocolate; let excess drip back into bowl. Place cookies on waxed paper; let stand until set. Makes 2 dozen cookies.


*Note: To toast nuts, spread them in a single layer in a shallow baking pan. Bake in a preheated 375F oven for 4 to 5 minutes or until nuts are slightly golden brown, stirring once or twice. Wrap warm nuts in a clean kitchen towel. Rub nuts in towel to remove any loose skins; cool completely. Chop nuts and set aside.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Day 9: Snickerdoodle Sandwiches

We love raisins. so this had to be made! This is also a good example of how you can buy store bought cookie dough and jazz it up!

Snickerdoodle Sandwiches

Ingredients

3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 16-1/2-ounce package refrigerated sugar cookie dough
1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
3 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons snipped golden raisins or raisins


Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a small bowl, combine sugar and 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon. Shape cookie dough into 3/4- to 1-inch balls; roll balls in cinnamon-sugar to coat. Place balls 1 inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.


2. Bake in the preheated oven for 7 to 9 minutes or just until edges are firm. Transfer cookies to a wire rack; let cool.


3. Meanwhile, for filling: In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, honey, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Beat with a wire whisk until smooth. If desired, stir in raisins.


4. Spread filling generously on the bottoms of half of the cookies. Top with remaining cookies, flat sides down, pressing lightly together. Makes about 24 sandwich cookies.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Day 8: Earl Grey Bocca Di Nonna

Must like Early Grey tea for this recipe!

Earl Grey Bocca Di Nonna


Ingredients
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons Dutch-process unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
3/4 teaspoon vanilla
1-1/2 cups finely ground blanched almonds
Earl Grey Ganache (below)



Directions
1. In a small bowl, stir together flour and cocoa powder; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar and vanilla. Beat until light and fluffy, scraping side of bowl occasionally. Beat in almonds. Beat in flour mixture just until mixture is combined. Cover and chill dough about 1 hour or until it is easy to handle.
3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or foil; set aside. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place balls about 2 inches apart on prepared cookie sheet. Press each ball to flatten slightly.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until firm. Cool on cookie sheet on a wire rack. Remove cooled cookies from cookie sheet. Spread about 1 teaspoon of the Earl Grey Ganache on the flat side of each of half of the cookies. Top with the remaining cookies, flat sides down. Makes 28 sandwich cookies.

Earl Grey Ganache
In a small saucepan, bring 1/3 cup whipping cream to boiling. Remove from heat. Add four Earl Grey tea bags (or a tea ball containing 4 teaspoons of loose Earl Grey tea). Cover and let stand for 15 minutes. Remove tea bags or ball from cream. Squeeze tea bags well or press tea leaves in tea ball with the back of a spoon to release any liquid. Return cream to boiling. Remove from heat. Immediately add 4 ounces finely chopped milk chocolate. Stir until chocolate melts and mixture is shiny and smooth. Cool to room temperature.

Monday, December 7, 2009

Day 7: Chocolate-Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

I found this recipe in our Cooking Light recipe about 2 months ago, and set it aside because i mean if cooking light has this, then it must be tried.

Each cookie is about 100 calories, and taste much better than any 100 calorie snack pack you can find!

Chocolate-Hazelnut Thumbprint Cookies

Ingredients
  • 4.5 ounces all-purpose flour (about 1 cup)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup finely chopped hazelnuts, toasted
  • 1/3 cup Nutella


Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Weigh or lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour, sugar, cocoa, and salt; stir with a whisk. Place butter in a large bowl, and beat with a mixer at medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Stir egg yolks with a whisk, adding espresso, if desired. Add the yolk mixture and vanilla to butter; beat well. Add flour mixture to butter mixture; beat at low speed just until combined.

3. Turn dough out onto a sheet of wax paper; knead 6 times or until smooth and shiny. Shape dough into 28 (1-inch) balls. Roll sides of balls in nuts, pressing gently. Arrange balls 1 inch apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Press thumb into center of each cookie, leaving an indentation. Bake, 1 batch at a time, at 350° for 10 minutes. Remove cookies from pans; cool completely on wire racks. Spoon a scant 1/2 teaspoon hazelnut-chocolate spread into center of each cookie.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Day 6: Peanut Butter Puppy Poppers

Who says Christmas is just for humans? I've made these before and the dogs wait outside the oven for them. they love them! and this saves a ton of money on treats. Hope your 4 legged friends like them as much as Zoe & Dakota

Peanut Butter Puppy Poppers


Ingredients
2 cups whole-wheat flour
1 tbsp. baking powder
1 cup peanut butter (chunky or smooth)
1 cup milk


Directions
Preheat oven to 375'F. In a bowl, combine flour and baking powder. In another bowl, mix peanut butter and milk, then add to dry ingredients and mix well. Place dough on a lightly floured surface and knead. Roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness and use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Bake for 10-15 minutes on a greased baking sheet until lightly brown. Cool on a rack, then store in an airtight container
.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Day 5: Candy Cane Cookies

I got extra special help tonight. Paul was home and strapped on an apron to help me with these.
Candy Cane Cookies

Ingredients
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons almond extract
  • 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Red food coloring
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
  • 1/2 cup sugar

Directions
  • In a small bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and extract. Combine flour and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
  • Divide dough in half; add 6-7 drops of food coloring to one half. Shape tablespoonfuls of each color of dough into 4-in. ropes. Place ropes side by side; lightly press ends together and twist. Place on ungreased baking sheets; curve to form canes.
  • Bake at 375° for 9-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Combine crushed candy canes and sugar; immediately sprinkle over cookies. Cool for 2 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

Friday, December 4, 2009

Day 4: Peanut Crisps

After the sugar overload in the Cordeiro house I had to make something less sweet.
Still sweet but with a salty kick, like the great invention ever, chocolate dipped pretzels. You'll get the same kind of warm and fuzzy feeling with these.

Recipe via Ms. Martha again!

Peanut Crisps

Ingredients
makes 3 1/2 dozen
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/4 cups packed light-brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup salted whole peanuts
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Stir together flour, salt, and baking soda in a small bowl; set aside. Put butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; mix on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  2. Mix in egg and vanilla. Reduce speed to low. Gradually add flour mixture; mix until combined. Stir in peanuts.
  3. Drop 2 teaspoons of dough on baking sheets lined with parchment paper, spacing about 3 inches apart. Lightly flatten to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Bake cookies, rotating sheets halfway through, until edges are just golden, about 13 minutes. Let cool on sheets on wire racks.Cookies can be stored in airtight containers at room temperature up to 1 week.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Day 3: Caramel-Filled Chocolate Cookies

When i found this recipe my mouth literally, began to water.
I omitted the pecans because hubby isn't a fan
this recipe is via Allrecipes.com

Caramel-Filled Chocolate Cookies

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 17 tablespoons sugar, divided
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup baking cocoa
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans, divided
  • 1 (13 ounce) package Rolo candies
  • 4 (1 ounce) squares white chocolate, melted

Directions
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, 1 cup sugar and brown sugar. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, cocoa and baking soda; gradually add to the creamed mixture, beating just until combined. Stir in 1/2 cup pecans.
  • Shape a tablespoonful of dough around each candy, forming a ball. In a small bowl, combine the remaining sugar and pecans; dip each cookie halfway. Place nut side up 2 in. apart on greased baking sheets.
  • Bake at 375 degrees F for 7-10 minutes or until tops are slightly cracked. Cool for 3 minutes before removing to wire racks to cool completely. Drizzle with melted white chocolate.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Day 2: Hazelnut-Espresso Cookies

I've been dying to make these since I found the recipe.
Once again, comes via my idol!

Next time, i think i'm going to add some mini chocolate chips, cause really, everything is better with chocolate. These were very good just as is though.

Hazelnut-Espresso Cookies

Ingredients

Makes 36

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 16 tablespoons (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons instant espresso powder
  • 2 cups (about 10 ounces) hazelnuts, skins removed, coarsely chopped
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a meduim bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  2. With an electric mixer, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Beat in espresso powder.
  3. With mixer on low speed, beat in flour mixture until incorporated. With a rubber spatula or wooden spoon, mix in hazelnuts.
  4. Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto three baking sheets, 1 1/2 inches apart. Bake, first two sheets together, until golden, about 12 minutes, rotating sheets front to back and from top to bottom halfway through. Repeat with remaining sheet. Cool cookies on sheets 2 minutes; transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve, or store in an airtight container up to 3 days.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Day 1: Giant Chocolate Sugar Cookies

I wasn't sure which of the 25 recipes i have stored ready to roll to make first! so when in doubt, ask the husband. This was his pick.


This recipe is via my idol, Martha Stewart. Just taste tested them, and they are pretty good. Next time i won't make them huge though.

Giant Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

Makes 8

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup good-quality unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, substitute 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 375. Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.
  2. Put butter and sugar into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy. Mix in shortening (or additional butter). Add egg and vanilla; mix until creamy. Reduce speed to low. Gradually add flour mixture, and mix until just combined.
  3. Using a 2 1/2-inch ice cream scoop, drop dough onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper, spacing about 4 inches apart. Bake until edges are firm, 18 to 20 minutes. Let cool on sheets on wire racks. Cookies can be stored in an airtight container up to 2 days.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Happy Thanksgiving!


This year we split the duties between us all, and mine was desserts.
Here are a couple new recipes i tried this year


Cappuccino Mousse Trifle

Ingredients
  • 2-1/2 cups cold milk
  • 1/3 cup instant coffee granules
  • 2 packages (3.4 ounces each) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 carton (16 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed, divided
  • 2 loaves (10-3/4 ounces each) frozen pound cake, thawed and cubed
  • 1 ounce semisweet chocolate, grated
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinn amon
Directions

In a large bowl, stir milk and coffee granules until dissolved;
remove 1 cup and set aside. Add pudding mixes to the remaining milk
mixture; beat on low speed for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or
until soft-set. Fold in half of the whipped topping.
Place a third of the cake cubes in a 4-qt. serving or trifle bowl.
Layer with a third of the reserved milk mixture and pudding mixture
and a fourth of the grated chocolate. Repeat layers twice. Garnish
with remaining whipped topping and chocolate. Sp rinkle with
cinnamon. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Yield: 16-20
servings.



Gingerbread Pumpkin Trifle

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 1 egg
  • 2-1/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup hot water
  • FILLING/TOPPING:
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 can (15 ounces) solid-pack pumpkin
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon rum extract
Directions
  • In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and egg. Combine the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with water, beating well after each addition.
  • Pour into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Cut gingerbread into 1/2-in. to 1-in. cubes; set aside.
  • In a large bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. Combine the pumpkin, brown sugar, vanilla and cinnamon; stir into pudding. In another bowl, beat cream until it begins to thicken. Add sugar and extract; beat until stiff peaks form.
  • Set aside 1/4 cup gingerbread cubes. In a 4-qt. trifle bowl or glass serving bowl, layer a third of the remaining gingerbread cubes; top with a third of the pumpkin mixture and whipped cream. Repeat layers twice. Crumble reserved gingerbread; sprinkle over top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Yield: 16 servings.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Easy being cheesy!

I found this recipe and looked at it like, this is easy and cheesy
so lets give it a whirl!


Easy Cheesy Chicken

Ingredients

  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 3 cups crushed cheese flavored butter crackers
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2tsp crushed red pepper
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Mix crackers, garlic powder and pepper together.
Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Roll the chicken breasts in melted butter or margarine, then in the crushed cracker crumbs. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 180 degrees

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Confession session

I have always feared the pot roast.
There, i said it!
Well this week i decided it was time to put my big girl panties on and get over it!

Thanks to my nesties for the recipe and the confidence to just do it!


Pot Roast


Ingredients:

3 Pound(s) beef pot roast
1 to taste salt
1 to taste steak seasoning or seasoned pepper
1/2 bag baby carrot
4 Clove(s) smashed garlic
1 packet mushroom onion soup mix
1/4 Cup(s) - 1/2 cup wine, beer or vermouth
1/4 Cup(s) - 1/2 cup water
2 peeled & quartered onion
1 to thicken liquid flour or cornstarch
(I also added potatoes)

Directions:

Coat all sides of roast with salt ( I always use kosher) and seasoned pepper. Brown in dry skillet on all sides. Toss all the veggies in the bottom of the Crockpot, top with meat, then add soup mix, top with liquids. Cover and cook on low for the longest time your Crockpot allows. When it's done cooking, take the meat out and stir in a little bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken up the sauce put the meat back in and serve straight out of the pot.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Heading south...

This was pretty good! i used a medium salsa for some kick.

Southwestern Chicken and Rice

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
  • Taco seasoning
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 (15.25 ounce) can kidney beans, drained, rinsed
  • 1 1/2 cups chunky salsa
  • 1 cup frozen, whole kernel corn, thawed
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 1/2 cups Minute® White Rice, cooked

Directions

  1. Heat oil in large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Add chicken and onion and top with Taco Seasoning; cook and stir until chicken is cooked through.
  2. Add beans, salsa corn and broth. Bring to boil.
  3. Stir in rice; cover. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes to thicken.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Where's the beef?

It's in my Chili Mac Casserole, that's where!

Chili Mac Casserole

Ingredients
1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
2 pounds lean ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (16 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons of hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
salt and pepper to taste (make sure you taste!!)
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded reduced-fat Mexican-blend cheese

Directions

Cook macaroni according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, cook the beef, onion and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the tomatoes, beans, tomato paste, chilies and seasonings. Drain macaroni; add to beef mixture.


Transfer to a 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish coated with nonstick cooking spray. Cover and bake at 375 degrees F for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly. Uncover; sprinkle with cheese. Bake 5-8 minutes longer or until cheese is melted.

Monday, November 9, 2009

It's 70 degrees in November...we need to grill!

Here i thought we were done using the grill and it goes an turns a nice 70 degrees today!
so you know i busted it out and used it tonight!
i was nervous about this recipe, with all the sweetness to it, but the soy sauce and hot sauce really made it quite nice. Thumbs up from the hubby too, so that's always a good thing.

Sweet, Tangy, Spicy Chicken Kabobs (although you can use any meat you want really)


Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup hot pepper sauce (such as Crystal®) (optional)
  • 3/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 (8 ounce) package fresh mushrooms, stems removed
  • 1 small red onion, cut into chunks
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 1/2 pint cherry tomatoes
  • 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves - cut into 1 inch pieces
  • 16 wooden skewers, soaked in water
  • 16 fresh pineapple chunks
  • 16 Cherries, stemmed


Directions

  1. Make the marinade by whisking the brown sugar, honey, lime juice, lemon juice, maraschino cherry juice, garlic powder, ginger, black pepper, cayenne pepper, pineapple juice, wine, hot pepper sauce, and soy sauce together in a large, non-metallic bowl. Toss the mushrooms, onion, bell pepper, tomatoes, and chicken in the marinade; cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour.
  2. Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat and lightly oil the grate.
  3. On each skewer, thread a piece of chicken, then three of the veggies followed by another piece of chicken then a pineapple slice and one maraschino cherry at the end. Mix and match the vegetables as you assemble the skewers. Cook on the preheated grill until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Soup, there it is!

Ok i stumbled upon this and am SO glad i did. this is my new favorite soup. seriously.

Stuffed Pepper Soup

INGREDIENTS
1 pound ground sirloin
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup finely diced onion
1 (29 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14 ounce) can chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried sage
salt and pepper to taste
1 cup white rice

DIRECTIONS
In a large stock pot brown ground meat. Drain fat and add pepper and onion. Cook until onion is translucent, not letting them brown.
Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, thyme, sage and season with salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes, until peppers are tender.
In another saucepan boil 2 cups water, and add rice. Cook until rice is tender and then add to soup. Heat soup through and serve.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

i'm really starting to love my Crockpot!

When i first got my crockpot, i was not pleased. everything kept coming out super dry and i was getting really discouraged. I put it away for awhile, and recently pulled it out and haven't put it back since! Now that i'm home i can monitor it, which i know makes no sense for a crockpot, but the sucker runs really hot. the low setting has stuff boiling!
Well i finally decided to try a soup in the pot. and this week's potato sale at the grocery store spawned this recipe.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup
(directions are for stove top- i followed everything up until added the onions, bacon bits etc. at that point i threw everything in the crockpot.)

Ingredients

  • 9 baking potatoes
  • 2/3 cup butter
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 6 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup bacon bits, divided
  • 4 green onions, chopped
  • 10 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1 (8 ounce) container sour cream
Directions
  1. Prick potatoes with a fork and cook in the microwave, 3 or 4 at a time, and scoop out the flesh (while the others are cooking).
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in flour and cook about a minute. Whisk in milk, a little at a time, stirring constantly until thickened. Stir in potatoes, salt, pepper, 1/3 cup bacon bits, 2 tablespoons green onions and most of the cheese. Cook until thoroughly heated. Stir in sour cream and heat through. Serve topped with remaining bacon, onions and cheese.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Garlic and Lime, is there really anything better??

Spicy Garlic Lime Chicken

Ingredients:
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/8 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon dried parsley

4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons garlic powder
3 tablespoons lime juice

Directions
In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, cayenne, paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, onion powder, thyme and parsley. Sprinkle spice mixture generously on both sides of chicken breasts.
Heat butter and olive oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Saute chicken until golden brown, about 6 minutes on each side. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons garlic powder and lime juice. Cook 5 minutes, stirring frequently to coat evenly with sauce

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Don't bust my chops!

Well I pulled out pork chops for dinner and then had no idea what to do with them as i didn't plan any recipes this week (i know, horrible person.) So i looked through a million recipes and was missing just one thing from a bunch of different recipes, so i decided to take it upon myself to just wing it. And i'm going to name it

Cola Chops

1 cup of Coke
1 cup of ketchup
2 tbsp. of brown sugar.
1 tbsp. minced garlic
1 tbsp. chili sauce
flour
salt
pepper
2-4 boneless pork chops

I created a marinate with the ingredients and let it sit for a couple of hours.
I took a little flour and salt and pepper to taste and coated the chops and fried them on each side for a minute or 2 to seal in the juices.
Then i put everything in a cassarole dish and threw it in the over for an hour at 350 degrees ( i had thick chops)
these were pretty good, and may just become a staple at the Cordeiro House.

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Some like it hot!

Tonight's dinner is for those spicy food lovers....

Chipotle Pepper Chicken

1 can of chipotles in adobe sauce
1 lime
2 tbsp. olive oil
Chicken Breasts

Directions:
Put the can of chipotles in the food processor and puree it. Add the juice of the lime and add the olive oil.
Place in a bowl and add the chicken. Let it marinate for at least 3 hours. (best over night if possible)
You may either fry or grill the chicken. both ways taste amazing.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

MMMMMMMMM Waffles!

Saturday morning also made the breakfast monster in me come out, so i busted out the waffle iron and got to work. Our trip to NH last month we purchase nice fresh maple syrup, so these were so good on a cold, rainy morning...

Basic Waffles
  • 2 cups sifted flour
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 eggs, separated
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 5 tablespoons melted shortening


Preparation:

Mix and sift dry ingredients. Combine beaten egg yolks, milk and shortening; add to dry ingredients, beating until smooth. Fold in stiffly beaten egg whites. Pour batter into each section of a hot waffle iron. Cook waffles until crispy and browned. Waffle recipe serves 6.

Weekend Warmer

It is so cold in New England this weekend, that it was perfect for chili. Made Saturday and heated repeatedly all weekend. So good.
I did mine in the Crockpot, cause really, the longer it cooks the better it tastes. Brown the meat and then throw everything in the crock and let it go!

Buffalo Chicken Chili
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
  • 2 pounds ground chicken
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 ribs celery with leafy tops, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon smoked sweet paprika
  • 1 bay leaf, fresh or dried
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce
  • 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
  • 1 can stewed, fire-roasted or crushed tomatoes (15 ounces)
  • 1 sack whole grain tortilla chips, lightly crushed
  • 3/4 pound Maytag Blue cheese, crumbled
  • A handful of flat leaf parsley, chopped
Preparation

Place a large pot over medium-high heat with the EVOO, 2 turns of the pan. Add the ground chicken and break it up, lightly browning it for 5 minutes.

Add the carrots, onion, celery, garlic, paprika and bay leaf and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 7-8 minutes. Add the chicken stock and scrape up any brown bits on the bottom of the pot.

Add the hot sauce, tomato sauce and the stewed, fire-roasted or crushed tomatoes to the chili and bring up to a bubble. Simmer for 8-10 minutes more to let the flavors come together.

While the chili is simmering, pre-heat the broiler.

Spread the chips out on a cookie sheet. Top with the crumbled blue cheese and transfer to the oven to melt the cheese, 2-3 minutes. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the chopped parsley.

Top each serving of Buffalo Chicken Chili with a few blue cheese chips.

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Dinner-6/1

These steaks were really good. Instead of T-bone steaks we used london broil, as it was on sale.
these are on the make again really soon list. :)


Savory Garlic Marinated Steaks
Ingredients:
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke flavoring
1 pinch cayenne pepper
2 (1/2 pound) rib-eye steaks

Directions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix the vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, honey, olive oil, ground black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, liquid smoke, and cayenne pepper.
2. Place steaks in a shallow glass dish with the marinade, and turn to coat. For optimum flavor, rub the liquid into the meat. Cover, and marinate in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days.
3. Preheat grill for medium-high to high heat.
4. Lightly oil the grill grate. Grill steaks 7 minutes per side, or to desired doneness. Discard leftover marinade.

Friday, May 29, 2009

Dinner-5/28

This was pretty good, and we have leftovers for lunch today, but i think i would use less butter next time. this one is def. not diet friendly!

4 Cheese Macaroni

INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 (16 ounce) package elbow macaroni
9 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup shredded Muenster cheese
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 1/2 cups half-and-half
8 ounces cubed processed cheese food
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain well and return to cooking pot.

In a large bowl, combine the Muenster cheese, mild and sharp Cheddar cheeses, and Monterey Jack cheese; mix well.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Add the half and half, 1 1/2 cups of cheese mixture, cubed processed cheese food, and eggs to macaroni; mix together and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a lightly greased deep 2 1/2 quart casserole dish. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese mixture and 1 tablespoon of butter.

Bake in preheated oven for 35 minutes or until hot and bubbling around the edges; serve.