One Crazy Cookie

Bacondoodles

2012-01-27T21:59:00.000-08:00

With the title of this post you must be wondering "What in the world?". No the power outage did not fry my brain..although when it went out for the second time I thought I might go a bit crazy!! I saw this cookie and was instantly curious. So you know me I had to try it out! My son described it as a chewy, sugary piece of bacon. At first taste, I wasn't quite sure, but then found myself wanting more. They are addicting! If you like the sugar/salt combo this is for you!!

Bacondoodles
adapted from Betterrecipes.com
1 cup bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon maple syrup
2 3/4 cup flour
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 Tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Cream butter and sugar together. Add eggs and vanilla and beat for 3 minutes. Add flour, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt. Mix until well blended. Now the important thing: Chill the dough for about 15-20 minutes in the fridge.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix the 3 Tablespoons of sugar with the cinnamon in a small bowl. Scoop up your dough and roll it in the sugar mixture. I used a cookie scoop. Place on a lightly greased cookie sheet.

Bake for 10-12 minutes. You want them to still be light colored. After removing them from the oven, let them sit on the cookie sheet for one minute before removing them.

Yum! I think I am hooked!

Teriyaki Sauce

2012-01-25T01:17:00.000-08:00

Wow! It feels good to be back!! Last week we experienced a rare snow storm, followed by freezing rain followed by more snow. It was like a war zone around here, trees toppled over everywhere and we were without power for 4 days and many others are still without power. I feel extremely blessed! Unfortunately the power outage put a damper on my cooking and I missed it, but did find a great teriyaki sauce recipe! This was delicious!! I used it on chicken but would be great with any meat.

Teriyaki Sauce
adapted from Food.com
1/4 cup soy sauce

1 cup water

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

5 Tablespoons packed brown sugar

2-3 Tablespoon honey

2 Tablespoons cornstarch

1/4 cup water

Mix all but cornstarch and 1/4 cup water in a sauce pan and begin heating.
Mix cornstarch and cold water in a cup and dissolve. Add to sauce in pan.
Heat until sauce thickens to desired thickness.
*I marinated my chicken in half of the sauce before cooking it. I then thickened the rest of it.
Pour over cooked chicken or beef.

Enjoy!!

Butterfinger Bites

2012-01-20T08:03:00.000-08:00

When I saw this recipe over at Talented Terrace Girls, I was immediately intrigued. I love Butterfinger candy bars. The list of ingredients in this recipe truly surprised me, so you all know I just had to try it out for myself. They were so delicious!! Took a little bit of time to make, but so worth it.

Butterfinger Bites
From Talented Terrace Girls
Box of Cheezits or any other box of cheese crackers
peanut butter
chocolate chips (I used milk chocolate)

Spread some peanut butter on one side of a cracker. Grab another cracker and place on top.

Dip in melted chocolate and cover completely.

Set on waxed paper on a cookie sheet. Then put them in the freezer for

5-10 minutes to get the chocolate to set up.

Oh YUM!!

The only issue I had with this recipe is my family ate half the box of Cheezits before I could get these made, but now they are begging for more!!

Thanks for a great recipe; Talented Terrace Girls. Make sure you chekc them out they have lotsof great and creative things. They are truly talented!

Bacon Cheeseburger Bundles

2012-01-18T01:32:00.000-08:00

With a family that could eat hamburgers every night of the week, I decided to take a new twist on the old family fave and it turned out great! The best part is you can easily change up this recipe to meet your family's needs. It was a hit with my whole family!!

Bacon Cheeseburger Bundles

1 lb hamburger

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup French Fried Onions

2-3 pieces of bacon

3 can crescent rolls

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Season, brown and drain the hamburger. Mix cheese, onion, and bacon into the beef mixture.

Place about 1 heaping Tablespoon of the mixture onto each crescent roll.

Fold dough over mixture. Place on a lightly greased cookie sheet.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until light brown.

Enjoy!! Some of the family dipped them in ranch and others in ketchup!

I actually used turkey bacon this time and it was good!!

Mini Mexican Meatloaf

2012-01-17T00:18:00.000-08:00

I have shared my love of Meixcan food many times with you. When my Mom handed me this recipe I just had to try it out! YUM!!

Mini Mexican Meatloaf
1 1/4 lb. ground beef
1 package taco seasoning
1/2 cup salsa
2 eggs
1/2 of an 11.5 oz. bag nacho cheese corn chips
2 cups grated cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup olives sliced
1 small can diced green chili peppers
1/2 onions, diced
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Combine beef, taco seasoning, salsa and eggs. Crush corn chips in to 1/2 inch pieces.
Add chips, cheese, pepper, olives, chili peppers and onions to the meat mixture. Mix well.
Using 1 cup of the mixture form in to little loaves.

Bake for 30-35 minutes. Drain off grease. At this point you can add a little more shredded cheese to the top of each loaf and return to the oven just until the cheese melts.

Remove from oben and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy Mexican goodness all rolled up in one little package!!

New General Mills Frosted Toast Crunch Giveaway

2012-01-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

Tired of the same old breakfast routine? Introducing NEW Frosted Toast Crunch, with the delicious taste of frosted vanilla*, this cereal is totally irresistible. Just one bite of the new Frosted Toast Crunch will send you into breakfast bliss, with each crunch square baked with the delightful taste of frosted vanilla and dusted with a delicious dash of cinnamon.

*The frosted vanilla coating is artificially flavored.

With 11 grams of whole grain, 9 grams of sugar and a good source of calcium, Frosted Toast Crunch offers a good start to the day

Crave those new FROSTED crazy squares? They are available now in your local grocers!

Take your cereal to the next level with this wholesome breakfast. Your taste buds will be swirling with excitement! Cinnamon Toast Crunch is one of my kids' favorites and now this one can be added to the list! The kids love it!!Now one lucky reader will have the opportunity to try it out along with some other great items. The Giveaway package includes:

Spilt milk bowl
Lickety spoon
Frosted pitcher
Frosted Toast Crunch cereal
To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and tell me How will your family enjoy new Frosted Toast Crunch?
For an additional entry like One Crazy Cookie on Facebook.

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on January 20, 2012

Good Luck!

The Frosted Toast Crunch, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark. All opinions are my own.

Mom's Light Waffles

2012-01-10T05:30:00.000-08:00

A few month ago my Mom made waffles for my nephew. He stood by her and curiously watched her. Finally when she asked him if he was ready to eat, he exclaimed, "WOW Grandma, I thought waffles only came from a box!!" So cute!! It is kind of a tradition my mom has started to make the grandkids waffles for breakfast when they visit her house. My girls kept on her until she made them and we were all happy she did. She said this is a recipe that my grandma always made. They were light and delicious!! We had no leftovers!!

Mom's Light Waffles
2 eggs (separate the whites and yolks)
2 cups milk
4 Tablespoons melted butter
2 cups flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
Combine 2 egg yolks and rest of the ingredients except; egg whites.

Beat 2 egg whites until they peak. Fold into the other mixture.

Cook according to your waffle maker directions.

We served them with Buttermilk Syrup. Light and delicious!!

Thanks to my sweet Mom!!

Menu Plan Monday

2012-01-09T00:30:00.000-08:00

This Week's Menu
Monday: Mexi-Meatloaf
Tuesday: Creamy Rice, Chicken & Spinach Dinner
Wednesday: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Thursday: Picnic Night
Friday: BBQ Chicken Pizza
Saturday: Hoagie Sandwiches
Sunday:Balsamic Pork Loin

Happy Healthy Eating!!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Bacon Chicken Ranch Pizza

2012-01-06T22:25:00.000-08:00

This is definitely not one of those low calorie dinners, but well worth saving your daily calories for. It is amazingly delicious!! A HUGE hit with the family!!

Bacon Chicken Ranch Pizza
1 recipe pizza dough
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
8 slices cooked bacon, broken into pieces
1/4 cup onions, diced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Pizza Sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 Tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
Roll out pizza dough into a cookie sheet. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven.
Meanwhile prepare sauce:
Melt butter in a sauce pan. Add the heavy cream and bring to a boil. Cook until volume is reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Stir in salt and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese.
*Optional: Add 1 tablespoon minced garlic to the butter and saute for a minute.
Spread sauce over the pizza. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce then add chicken, bacon and onions.

Drizzle the ranch on top. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 15- 20 minutes or until crust appears done.

Enjoy!!

*Winco has a great pizza dough. It is cheap and tastes great!!

Delicious!

OXO...Not the Old Fashioned Egg Beater Anymore Giveaway

2012-01-03T04:15:00.000-08:00

I remember as a child playing with my Grandma's egg beater, which she used all the time, but as an adult finding them bulky and hard to clean. With the OXO Good Grips Egg Beater this is no longer an issue. I found it simple, easy to clean and fun to use.

I used it to whip up eggs whites to brush on some homemade bread!

My daughter made some pudding with it and said, "It was so cool!"

Features and Benefits of the OXO Good Grips Egg Beater:

*Has smoothly rotating gears that are enclosed for protection and easy clean up.

*Soft comfortable, non slip grips on turning knob and contoured handle.

*Sturdy stainless steel beaters can be removed with one push for easy cleaning.

*Beaters are elevated and continue to work while the device rests on the bottom of the bowl.

*Perfect for eggs, light batters, whipped cream and more.

*Base detaches from top and is dishwasher safe.

Trust me it is an awesome kitchen tool!!

Now for the great news: OXO has given me a Good Grips Egg Beater to giveaway to one of my readers!!

To Enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and tell me what you like best about this egg beater!

For extra entries like One Crazy Cookie on Facebook.

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on January 10, 2012!

Good Luck!!

I received the products free of charge from OXO. All opinions are my own.

I'm Finally Back...Menu Plan Monday

2012-01-02T20:52:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had an incredible holiday season!! Sorry for the lack of posts. I had the opportunity at the last moment to go visit family in Idaho, so I jumped at it. My kids and I drove 13 hours. but had an amazing time. This visit I brought back a few of my favorite things that I can't get where I live:

~ Ranch and Blue Cheese dressings from the Famous Chiz's Restaurant in St. Anthony, ID. (I worked there for about 6 years). The food is so delicious and the dressings are amazing!! I didn't get to eat there, but at least could purchase the dressings at the grocery store.
~Harper's Homemade Bran Bread. Low calories and high fiber. It is delicious!! Made in my old hometown of Pocatello, ID.
~Stephen's French Vanilla Hot Chocolate. This is my guilty pleasure!!

While we were there I took my kids and nephew to the famous

Big Juds! This restaurant was featured on Man Vs. Food!!

Where we shared the Big Jud 1lb burger!

That is after we got it away from my son! Whom I'm sure could of eaten one by himself!

It was delicious!! We had a fun time!

A HUGE THANKS to my wonderful family and friends!!

Now back to reality:

This Week's Menu:

Monday: Shrimp Fried Rice

Tuesday: Potato Soup

Wednesday: Tacos

Thursday: Picnic Night

Friday: Tex Mex Meatloaf

Saturday: Baked Chicken

Sunday: Cream Cheese Chicken

I got a few new recipes from my mom to share with you!!

I'm sad my kids go back to school tomorrow. We've had such a great time!!

Wishing everyone a great week!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Cookie Dough Truffles

2011-12-27T06:05:00.000-08:00

One last sweet I have to share this holiday season because these are my favorite!! I could seriously eat the whole batch!! Good thing my sweet friend Mikayla made and shared them with me. I finally begged her for the recipe because it is a keeper!! It gives you the perfect excuse to eat cookie dough!!

Cookie Dough Truffles

by Mikayla

1/2 c butter, softened

3/4c packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 C flour

1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

1/2 cup miniature semisweet choc chips

1-1/2 pounds dark chocolate candy coating, coarsely chopped (or milk chocolate)

In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla. Gradually add flour, atlernating with milk, beating well after each addition. Stir in the chocolate chips. Shape into 1-inch balls; place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Loosely cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or until firm.

In a microwave bowl, melt candy coating; stir until smooth. Dip balls in coating; allow excess to drip off; place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Refrigerateuntil firm, about 15 minutes. If desired, remelt remaining candy coating and drizzle over candies. Store in the refrigerator. Makes about 5 dozen.

OH YUM!

Watch out they are addicting!

Thanks Mikayla!!

Santa Hat Pretzels

2011-12-23T15:44:00.000-08:00

If you are in need of a last minute Chirstmas treat this is so perfect! It is simple, quick, delicious and oh so CUTE!!

Santa Hat Pretzels
Mini Twist Pretzels
White Chocolate chipa or white almond bark
Red Sanding Sugar
Mini Marshmallows

Melt the white chocolate according to the directions on the package.
Dip each mini twist pretzel halfway into the melted white chocolate.
Place on waxed paper.(Or in my case I was out so I placed them on plastic wrap.)
Sprinkle each chocolate covered pretzel with the red sanding sugar until only a small amount of the white chocolate is showing.

Cut the mini marshmallows in half. Use additional white chocolate to adhere a mini marshmallow half onto the side of each pretzel.

Allow time for the chocolate to set.

Add to your treat trays, bag up

Or just enjoy!!

Merry Christmas!

Hot Chocolate on a Stick

2011-12-20T01:23:00.000-08:00

I LOVE hot chocolate and was instantly intrigued when I saw these over at Lark's Country Heart (Lots of delicious thing over there. It's a great blog!). What a brilliant and cute gift! They turned out darling and were really pretty easy to make. I used them for handouts for a lesson and most of them did not make it into milk..the girls ate them on the way out the door!!

Hot Chocolate on a Stick

From Lark's Country Heart

1/2 C. Heavy Cream

1 (14oz.) Sweetened Condensed Milk

3 C. Semi Sweet Chocolate Chips *(You can mix this up too, 2 C. semi./1C. Milk )*

1 (4 oz.) Bar of Unsweetened Chocolate

Optional: 1 Tablespoon flavoring (use any flavor you like)

Dash of Cinnamon

In a medium size sauce pan mix together the cream and condensed milk.

Stirring often until it begins to "steam". (DO NOT BOIL)

Remove from heat and add all the chocolate, stir just enough to cover the chocolate.

Set it aside for 10-15 minutes. While you are waiting lightly spray your 9x5 loaf pans with cooking spray(makes 2 pans). After the time is up you will then return it to the heat on low/med whisking it until all pieces of the chocolate are melted. Stir in your flavoring and cinnamon.

Pour 1/2 the mixture in each pan. Spread evenly and smooth the top.

Here is the "hard" part....now you have to let it set up for at least 6 hrs.

Or just do what I did and make this up before going to bed and let it set overnight.

Remove it from the pan and cut into 1 inch pieces. 6 x 3 (18 pieces per/pan).

Before I cut mine I dipped the tops of marshmallows in some melted chocolate and then dipped it in crushed candy canes. Let chocolate set up. Then push your sticks into the marshmallows.

Then push the stick into each piece of the chocolate mixture.

Now simply package them up and attach a tag telling them to add their Hot Chocolate in a stick to 6-8 oz. warm milk and stir until dissolved.

Here's the copy of my tags if you want to use them.

Right click and save to Word or something similar.

Loved this recipe! The only thing I am going to try on the next batch is use 2 cups milk chocolate chips and 1 semi sweet or maybe even all 3 milk chocolate. I used vanilla flavoring, but the choices are endless. Mint, orange, raspberry..etc.

Enjoy this fun and delicious recipe!
Check out Lark's Homemade Peppemint Marshmallows! Amazing!!

Thanks Lark!!

Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol.

2011-12-19T22:28:00.000-08:00

Get ready for action, adventure, and explosive entertainment like you´ve never seen it before! Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to check out Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol in IMAX theatres.

Beginning December 16th, a full five days before its North American premier, Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol will be shown in a mind-blowing IMAX experience in 300 theatres across the country. Join Ethan Hunt and his team of rogue IMF agents, in this awesome spy adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With 30-minutes of scenes shot with IMAX cameras, fans will be able to enjoy certain sequences of the movie in larger than life proportions. You will be right in the action as Ethan Hunt (played by Tom Cruise) scales the world´s tallest building; the Burk Khalifa Tower in Dubai, as this and other thrilling moments expand to fit the entire IMAX screen. As an added bonus, IMAX will offer the first previews of the upcoming Batman film, The Dark Knight Rises, prior to Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol. Love the Mission Impossible movies and the IMAX experience is Awesome!! You can check out the trailer here!

Go Like IMAX on Facebook for more great information!!

The information was provided by IMAX through MyBlogSpark

Cranberry Cheese Bars

2011-12-18T01:08:00.000-08:00

This is one of those treats that has muliple flavor combinations that makes it oh so delicious! With just the perfect amount of sweetness.

Cranberry Cheese Bars
2 cups flour
1 1/2 cup oats
3/4 cup plus 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
1 cup butter softened
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 Tablespoons cornstarch
1 (16 oz.) whole berry cranberry sauce
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large mixing bowl combine flour, oats, 3/4 cup brown sugar and butter. Mix until crumbly. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture, press the remainder firmly on bottom of a greased 13 x 9 baking pan. Bake 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Meanwhile, in a small mixing bowl beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Stir in lemon juice. Spread evenly over the prepared crust.

In a small bowl mix the remaining 1 Tablespoon brown sugar and cornstarch together. Stir in the cranberry sauce. Spoon evenly over cream cheese layer.

Top with the reserved crumb mixture.

Bake 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Store covered in refrigerator.

YUM!

Salted Nut Rolls

2011-12-13T20:27:00.000-08:00

I'm loving the sharing that goes along with this time of the year. This recipe comes from a master chef of deliciousness! My cousin Rhonda has always been know to make THE BEST stuff! She also has extreme patience, because she painted my nails for the wedding this summer and I believe it was about a 2 hour process (sorry I was a bit high maintenance!!). I was so excited when she shared her latest creation with me and it is a fabulous one.

Salted Nut Rolls
1 1/2 cups butter
1 can evaporated milk
7 cups of sugar
1 large jar marshmallow creme
1 small jar creamy peanut butter
2 cups chopped salted peanuts (may need a little more.)
Melt and stir together: butter, evaporated milk.
Add 7 cups of sugar and cook to softball stage (235-240 degrees F)
Take off heat and stir in 1 large jar of marshmallow creme and 1 small jar of creamy peanut butter.
Beat with Electric mixer for 5 minute
Roll into logs and then rolls into the chopped salted peanuts.

This recipe is delicious as it combines salt and sugar.

I am so craving these right now!!

Thanks Rhonda!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-12-12T02:20:00.000-08:00

It is most definitely a crazy one at our house this week. Hubby is gone for the week so it's up to me to get everyone everywhere they need to be, luckily I have Kody to help me (Thanks Kody!!) This week's menu is all about simplicity and hopefully no trips to the grocery store for I don't have time!!

This Week's Menu
Monday: Skillet Ham & Cheese Pasta
Tuesday: Potato Soup
Wednesday: Progressive Dinner
Thursday: Bball Banquet
Friday: Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup
Saturday: Wings
Sunday: White Enchiladas

Best Wishes Everyone for a Holly Jolly Week!!

linked to Menu Plan Monday

Red Hot Holiday Trends

2011-12-11T18:12:00.000-08:00

The food experts at Betty Crocker have selected trends that will be red hot this holiday season, and have created delicious recipes to bring each one to life. These fun and delicious recipes are sure to fire up any holiday event, and keep you toasty and warm for the New Year ahead. I found this list very intriguing and so would like to share a few of the trends Betty Crocker came up with for the Red Hot Holiday Trends of 2011.

Trend: Double Desserts
Taking two desserts and mixing and mashing them together is one of our favorite trends. Things like pie shakes, cookie stuffed cookies, and pie-filled cupcakes deliver a whole new kind of delicious. It’s a 1+1=3 kind of thing

Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Cookies
Pie, meet cookie. Cookie, say hello to pie. When two all-time favorites come together, you get Pumpkin Pie Cookies, the star at your next holiday cookie exchange.

Trend: Color. Flavor. Fun.

Traditional baked goods are being transformed with bright colors and playful flavors. With a little creativity and imagination, no one can resist this happy, fun food!

Recipe: Cake Batter Cookie Stackers
Take sugar cookies to a whole new level of delicious! Kids and adults will love these cake batter flavored cookies with colorful frosting, and lots of sprinkles! Stack ‘em up and watch ‘em go.

Trend: Better Than Bought

From canning to candy making, there’s a renewed interest in handcrafted foods. This season, homemade food gifts are just the right thing to show your care and creativity.

Recipe: Cajeta Caramel Fudge
Create the perfect combination of flavor and crunch with this homemade candy. Rich chocolate fudge

Trend: D-I-Y for D-O-G

Man’s best friend deserves man’s best effort. That’s why making your own dog food is one of the latest canine crazes! This year, homemade dog treats are at the top of fido’s list.

Recipe: Dog Bark
This treat will make your dog sit up and beg for more. Make the bark by melting carob chips and peanut butter then top with your dog’s favorite ingredients – bacon and cheese. Bow WOW!
ayered with cajeta caramel, cashews and a sprinkle of sea salt—a recipe to impress.

Trend: Food Craft

The kitchen is the new craft room. With food as their medium, clever cooks are making amazing edible food crafts that are as good to look at as they are to eat.

Recipe: Chocolate Coal Lumps
Naughty or nice, everyone will love these easy cho-coal-late treats. Cocoa Puffs® cereal dipped in melted chocolate and marshmallows create these tasty stocking stuffers.

I'm loving these trends! Gotta try some of them out! You can check out the entire

Red Hot Holiday Trends list here!

Happy Holiday Baking!!

I received the details of The Red Hot Holiday Trends from Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark.

The Black Shard..A Must Read!!

2011-12-09T16:19:00.001-08:00

My name is Kelsee. I am 10 years old and today I am taking over my mom's blog to tell you about an incredible book you need to read called "The Black Shard" by the talented writer Victoria Simcox It is full of action, excitement and lots of twists and turns. It is a book you don't want to put down.

The sequel to The Magic Warble is an incredible exiting tale about how Kristina Kingsley
randomly is back in the land of Bernovem, where she meets Werrien again and catches up with all her friends there. When Kristina arrives she is not used to all the attention, statues, people exited to finally meet her, and when they head to Tezerel the boat they went on was named after her!! She is reunited with all her friends and life seems perfect. But when Werrien becomes fascinated with an unusual seeing stone the Black Shard. The morning they got on the ship Kristina did not have a very good breakfast, and from then on she felt terribly sick. On the way of this incredible trip Werrien and Kristina spent much time together. Kristina is haunted by a ghostlike hag. Stuggling against lots of obstacles and ultimately the one who wants to possess her soul. After a few days on the ship they stopped at an island where Werrien and Kristina went swimming. When they were going back the " old hag" tried to drown her and left cuts in her leg. Kristina did not have very good luck on this trip, but discovers she the most strength she has ever had.

I recommend you read this series. It is so good! My mom loves these books too!!

You can buy The Black Shard here and The Magic Warble here.

Check out The Black Shard on Facebook.

Happy Reading!!

Kelsee

Caramel Nut Chex Mix

2011-12-09T00:18:00.000-08:00

This is the perfect fix for that sweet crunchy craving. It is delicious and easy to make.

Caramel Nut Chex Mix
8 cups Chex Cereal (I used equal amount of Rice and Corn Chex)
2 cups nuts (I used almonds and cashews)
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup butter
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 cup brown sugar
Preheat oven to 250 degrees.
Put chex and nut in a large bowl. Combine the corn syrup, butter, vanilla and sugar in a saucepan. Over medium high heat, stirring constantly bring to a boil and boil for 1 minute. Pour over the cereal mixure and stir to coat. Spread on to a cookie sheet and bake for 45 minutes. Stir a couple times while baking. Cook and store in an airtight container.

Enjoy!

Secret Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-12-07T23:46:00.000-08:00

Recently, my friend announced she was sitting on the floor in front of her oven just waiting for the cookies to get done, of course I had to know more! Then she explained that these cookies had a secret ingredient, when I heard it called for bacon I was immediately intrigued! Her family loved them and the neighbors gave them the thumbs up! My good friend Kim gets all the credit for this ultimately delicious and clever recipe!!

Secret Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies

Good bacon, chopped ( 1 cup diced and cooked well )

1 1/2 cups white sugar

1 cup softened butter

2 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

2/3 cup cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Preheat an oven to 350 degrees

Dice bacon into small pieces and cook on stove until well done, you don't want soft bacon. Drain and let cool, can't be warm.
Beat the sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer in a large bowl until fluffy and smooth.
Mix together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Add to wet mixture, mix
Mix in the chocolate chips and bacon.
Wrap and put in fridge for 30 min
Drop cookies by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake for 10 to 11 minutes in the preheated oven

Thanks KIM!!

Update the Traditional Cookie Exchange: Host a Chex Party Mix-Change!

2011-12-05T01:30:00.000-08:00

This Christmas season I am going to try out a fun, new and super-easy idea for the holidays from Chex cereal- a Chex Party Mix-Change. Chex® Party Mix is mixing it up with a fresh idea that puts a new spin on the classic cookie exchange. Ditch the hours of baking and make 15 minute Chex Party Mix recipes instead – all you need is a microwave and some friends to stir up the fun.

The concept is simple – invite some friends over for a party and ask everyone to make enough of their favorite Chex Party Mix recipe to exchange with party guests. Taste, mix, swap, and share the recipes, putting the treats in easy DIY packages for everyone to take home.

Highlighting the flavors of pumpkin pie, cinnamon, brown sugar and caramel, your guests are sure to “fall” in love with these seasonal favorites that can be made in the microwave in 15 minutes or less. These five Chex Party Mix recipes are sure to get your guests excited for fall and the upcoming holiday season-

Original Chex Party Mix – A tried and true classic of many holiday gatherings.
Chex PB & Chocolate Blast – Is there really a better combination than peanut butter and chocolate? Yes, when Chex cereal is added!
Chex Pumpkin Pie Crunch – Mix things up and try this mouthwatering alternative to the beloved holiday pie.
Hot Buttered Yum Chex Mix – A combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, honey and marshmallows blend effortlessly together in a crazy-delicious, gluten free crunchy mix.
Chex Caramel Chocolate Drizzles – Melted chocolate, chewy caramel and a delightful crunch carry this gluten-free party mix recipe from microwave to table in 15 minutes.
A couple of my personal faves: Coconut Almond Chex Mix and Muddy Buddies.

Try these easy tips and tricks for wrapping up the fun so your guests can take their Chex Party Mix to-go-

Cello Gorgeous! – Packaging your favorite Chex Party Mix recipes in cellophane bags is simple and cute. And, they’re endlessly customizable to add personal touches.
It’s My Party – Flip a party hat upside down, line it with cellophane and it instantly becomes a festive cone-shaped container.
Chex Cupcakes – Arrange cupcake liners filled with Chex Party Mixes neatly in a box.
Chex-To-Go – Packaging Chex Party Mix recipes in a takeout container is quick and easy to “carry out.”
Tin Tower – Tin is “in” when it comes to creating a hip holiday container for Chex Party Mix-Change guests. Discover oodles of holiday tins at craft or dollar stores.

As I prepare to host my party one lucky reader will get the supplies to host their own Chex Mix Exchange party! The gift pack will include:

5 boxes of Chex cereal to create Chex Party Mix recipes

5 featured Chex Party Mix recipes

10 takeout containers so your guests can take their Chex Party Mix to-go

$20 gift card to purchase recipe ingredients and decorating supplies

To Enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and tell me

which Chex Mix recipe you wold like to make first!!

For an additional entry like One Crazy Cookie on Facebook.

Winner will be chosen by random number generator

on December 7, 2011.

I'm planning on making some different versions of Chex mix that I will share with you this week!!

Good Luck and Have fun Chex Mixing it up!!

Disclosure: The Chex Party Mix-Change product, information, and giveaway have been provided by Chex through MyBlogSpark

What's On The Menu??

2011-12-04T21:18:00.001-08:00

Last week I got to attend my first professional football game!! It was a blast and now I am so hooked! Check out the sky! COLD and raining. Luckily, our seats were under the cover. There was the most beautiful pink sunset just after the game. Unfortunately, my pictures didn't turn out well.

This week I am attempting to get ahead of the game by getting my menu done a day early. We will see if it helps out for this crazy week ahead. I can't believe the Christmas season is here and going very fast. Lots to do so here it goes..

This Week's Menu
Monday: Parmesan Chicken
Tuesday: Naked Chicken Burrito Bowls
Wednesday:Crock Pot Minestrone Soup
Thursday: Picnic Night
Friday: Cheese Burger Sliders
Saturday:Church Christmas Dinner
Sunday: Stuffed Meatloaf

Best Wishes!!

White Lasagna

2011-12-02T01:43:00.000-08:00

This is another recipe I got from my sister. I keep telling my sisters they need to team up with me on this blog! This recipe was amazingly delicious! It was a bit different from normal lasagna and the flavor combination is incredible! It can be made ahead and even frozen for later.

The whole family loved it. Thanks Candice!!

White Lasagna
2 cups baby spinach(or 1 package frozen spinach)
1 pkg Lasagna noodles
1 lb Ground beef
1 lb Sausage
1 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Pepper

1 1/2 teaspoon Oregano

1 teaspoon. minced Garlic
1 1/2 Tablespoon Worchestshire
1 lb Mozzarella shredded
2 Cans Cream of mushroom soup
1 can petite diced tomatoes
1 1/2 Cups Milk
7 oz Tomato Sauce
1 cup Parmesean Cheese
Directions
Brown meat, add salt, pepper, oregano, garlic, tomatoes and worcestershire. Stir in spinach. Cook noodles. Combine soup and milk and heat. Add 1 cup soup mixture to the meat mixture. In a 9x13 inch casserole dish add a thin layer of the soup mixture to the bottom of the pan. Then layer noodles, meat mixture, mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and repeat for 3 layers.

Pour remaining soup mixture over top letting it seep into the casserole.

Spread tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle generously with remaing parmesan and mozzarella.

Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until bubbly hot. Freezes well at this point. Bake 90 minutes frozen.

DELICIOUS!!

Help Cheerios Cheer for Military Families and a GIveaway

2011-11-30T15:47:00.001-08:00

Everyone can use a little pick me up now and then. But for the millions of military families manning the fort at home while their loved ones are away serving, a gesture of Cheer is especially welcome.

When our troops are called to serve, their families must rise to meet the challenges of service as well. To thank them, Cheerios and the USO have partnered in a postcard campaign that spreads Cheer directly to these honorable military families and supports USO programs. Here’s how it works:

During the months of October and November, 2011, specially-marked boxes of Cheerios cereal will feature Cheer postcards on the front of the box. Consumers can simply cut out the postcard from the Cheerios logo, write a message of thanks on the back, add a stamp and mail the pre-addressed card to the USO. The USO will deliver the Cheer card to military families across the country.
For each postcard received through November 2012, Cheerios will make a $1 donation to the USO to help fund programs that support military families.

To kick off the campaign, Cheerios has already donated $150,000 to the USO and will donate up to an additional $100,000 based upon the number of postcards received from specially marked boxes now through November 30^th, 2012.

Now good news for you Cheerios would like to send some cheer to one lucky reader, a great prize pack containing:

1 Cheerios cereal bowl

1 Cheerios cereal spoon

1 cereal dispenser

1 “Cheer” box of Cheerios

To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and leave me a comment on how military families inspire you!

For additional entries like One Crazy Cookie on Facebook.

Make sure I have an email address so I can contact you.

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on December 3, 2011

Sending a “Cheer” postcard is a simple way to say thanks and lift the spirits of our country’s military families. So, take a moment out of your day to spread some Cheer

and send a message of thanks!

Cheerios cereal, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Turkey Tetrazzini

2011-11-30T01:08:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite dishes for leftover turkey! I had my hear set on making it, until I opened up the fridge and found that my family had eaten all the turkey!! When does that ever happen?? Luckily it tastes just a delicious with chicken and there are no leftovers of dinner either. The family loved it!

Turkey (or Chicken) Tetrazzini
8 oz. spaghetti broken into pieces
5 Tablespoons butter
6 Tablespoons flour
3 cups chicken or turkey broth
1 cup cream (or milk)
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup fresh or canned mushrooms
2-3 cups cooked turkey or chicken, cubed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cook spaghetti until just tender, drain and set aside. Melt butter, blend in flour. Stir in broth. Add cream, salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until mixture thickens. Add drained spaghetti, mushrooms, turkey or chicken and stir to combine. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Pour into a 9 x 13 casserole dish; sprinkle with the shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake uncovered ar 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned.

Enjoy!! DELICIOUS!!

Candice's Caramel Brownies

2011-11-29T00:48:00.000-08:00

These delicious treats come from my sister. She is an awesome cook and is always finding the best recipes. This one does not disappoint. Simple and amazing!! Thanks Candice!

Candice's Caramel Brownies

1/2 Cup evaporated milk
1 pkg German chocolate cake mix (18.25 ounce)
1/2 Cup butter, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 Cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 Cup chopped pecans (optional)
1 Cup Caramel Sauce
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease one 9x13 inch baking dish.
Combine cake mix, melted butter, the 1/2 cup evaporated milk, vanilla and nuts. Mix well and spread 1/2 of the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes Cool 5 minutes
Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the partially cooked brownies. Pour the Carmel sauce over the top and with a teaspoon drop the remaining 1/2 of the batter evenly over the top.
Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Let brownies cool in pan then cut into bars.

Yum!!

Gobble-Good Turkey Casserole

2011-11-22T01:33:00.000-08:00

Check out this cute turkey! One of my school kids brought it.

Best of all he comes with a treat..

He's got the 1 cup of rice needed to make the Gobble-Good Turkey Casserole!

How fun would this be for the kids to make and send home with guests or take to people!

Here's the recipe that's tied around his neck:

Gobble-Good Turkey Casserole

1 can cream of mushroom soup

1 can cream of celery soup

1 package onion soup mix

1 cup rice

1 1/2 cups milk

2-3 cups leftover turkey

Combine all ingredients in a large casserole dish. Bake Covered at 350 degrees for 45 minutes.

*Note I have not tried this out yet! It sounds delicious. I just fell in love with this idea, thought it was so cute I just had to share!!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-11-21T05:44:00.000-08:00

This week's menu plan is gonna be short and simple! Hoping for a lot of leftovers after Thanksgiving to get us through the weekend! It's Stone Soup Feast time at work on Wednesday and I'm in charge of bringing dessert for 25 (half being kids). I am at a loss. Anyone have any ideas??

This Week's Menu
Monday: California Chowder
Tuesday:Crockpot Beef Chow Mein
Wednesday: Picnic Night
Thursday: Thanksgiving
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Pizza
Sunday: Turkey Ring

This Thanksgiving I am thankful for so many things. especially for all of you who visit my blog!

Wishing you all a happy and relaxing Thanksgiving!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake

2011-11-18T00:37:00.000-08:00

Since it is officially "Pumpkin Week" here at One Crazy Cookie, I had to try out one more new recipe! Plus I had 1 cup of pumpkin waiting in the fridge waiting to be used up. This is easy to put together and delicious! I put it in the fridge and expect it to be even better after a little chill time!! Now I just need to get some whipped cream to go on top. Yum, that would be perfect!!

Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake
adapted from Paula Deen
Cake:
1 package yellow cake mix
1 egg
1/2 cup butter, melted

Filling:
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
1 cup pumpkin
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine cake ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Pat into a lightly greased 9 x 13 pan to make an even layer.
Prepare filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and pumpkin until smooth. Add eggs, vanilla and butter. Mix it all together. Next add powdered sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Mix well.
Pour over top of cake layer and spread it evenly. It will be runny. Bake for 40-50 minutes. Make sure not to over bake as the center should be a little gooey.

Serve with whipped cream, ice cream or just eat them straight from the pan!!

(I would of had a picture of the whole pan, but my family got to them first!)

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls With Caramel Frosting

2011-11-16T01:08:00.000-08:00

I have expressed my LOVE of pumpkin to you before so I could not resist trying out this recipe I found in a old church cookbook. You really could not taste the pumpkin, but they were delicious!! The caramel frosting made them so tasty! A huge hit with the whole family!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls With Caramel Frosting
Makes 18-20 cinnamon rolls
Dough:
2/3 cup milk
1/4 cup butter
1 cup canned pumpkin or mashed cooked pumpkin
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs. beaten
2 Tablespoons yeast
3 1/2- 4 cups flour
In a small saucepan heat milk, butter, sugar and salt until warm and butter is melted. Stirring constantly.
Remove from heat. In a mixer bowl add the yeast and the milk mixture. Let yeast proof for about 10 minutes (It will get bubbly). Add pumpkin and beat until well mixed. Beat in the eggs. Slowly add the flour, adding enough to make a soft dough.

Turn dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
Punch dough down and knead a few times to form a smooth dough, sprinkling with enough flour to make the dough easy to handle. On a lightly floured surface roll dough into a about a 24 x 12 inch rectangle.

Filling:

1/3 cup butter, melted
2/3 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Melt butter and spread it over the dough. Sprinkle with brown sugar mixture.

Roll up jelly roll style. Pinch seams to seal.

Cut rolls into about 1 inch slices (trick to easy cutting you can find here.)

Place rolls onto a greased cookie sheet. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden.

Cool for about 10 minutes.

Frost with caramel frosting.

Caramel Frosting:

1/4 cup butter

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 Tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

pinch of salt

3/4 - 1 cup powdered sugar

In a small saucepan heat butter until melted. Stir in brown sugar and milk. Cook over medium low heat for 1 minute. Transfer to a mixing bowl. Stir in vanilla, salt and powdered sugar. Beat with mixer until well blended. Start with 3/4 cup powdered sugar and add more to desired consistency.

Drizzle frosting over the rolls.

OH YUM!!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-11-15T05:15:00.000-08:00

I have to admit that these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip cookies are one of my biggest weakness!! The flavor combination is so delicious!! They freeze brilliantly. OH YUM! I usually double the recipe.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
1/2 cup butter
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup pumpkin
2 1/2 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Mix together the butter and sugar. Mix in egg, pumpkin and vanilla. Sift together remaining ingredients and add gradually. Stir in chocolate chips. Drop by tablespoons on to the cookie sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes. Don't overcook.

Off to raid the freezer to see if I have any of these left!!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-11-14T02:30:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe we are only 9 days away from Thanksgiving!! The days appear to be flying by lately. Time to start thinking about the things we want on the Thanksgiving table. Wow!!

Check out some of the cute handprint and footprint turkeys I made with my preschool class!!

I love the holiday season!!

Now on to the menu...

This Week's Menu
Monday: Cashew Chicken
Tuesday:Cheddar BBQ Chicken Breasts
Wednesday: Taco Soup
Thursday: Spaghetti Casserole
Friday:Burger Dogs and Sweet Potato Fries
Saturday:Malibu Chicken
Sunday: Roast

I opened a big can of pumpkin the other day for a recipe that only needed a little so this week will be "Pumpkin Week"! Expect a few oldies but goodies and some new recipes to be posted. As always feel free to share your favorites with me!!

Washington Apple Cake

2011-11-11T00:17:00.000-08:00

How could I not try out a recipe with the name of my home state in it! It was so moist and delicious!! I took it to work and they loved it. My friend stopped by to tell me she was craving it so I best get the recipe on here! Thanks Jessica!!

Washington Apple Cake
adapted from Kraft
1 box yellow cake mix
1 (3.4 oz) vanilla flavored pudding
4 eggs
2/3 cup water
1/2 cup applesauce
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup sour cream
3 apples, peeled and coursely chopped
Heat oven to 350 degees. Mix everything except the apples together until well blended. Stir in the apples. Pour into a greased bundt or tube pan.

Bake 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

Cool in pan for 15 minutes. Loosen cake with a knife and invert cake onto a serving dish or wire rack. Cool cake completely.

GLAZE

3/4 cup powdered sugar

1/4 teaspoon vanilla

2 Tablespoons melted butter

3-4 teaspoons water or milk

Wisk ingredients together adding enough milk or water to get the desired consistency. Drizzle over top of the cake/ Let stand until the glaze is firm.

Enjoy!!

Funfetti Cake Batter Fudge

2011-11-09T01:11:00.000-08:00

Today's recipe is courtesy of my sweet little sister who is turning out to be an amazing cook!! She says the fudge is easy and tastes like a homemade cake batter. Each piece is really sweet, but everyone loved it!

Funfetti Cake Batter Fudge
from The Pursuit of Hippieness
3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 12 oz. package white chocolate chips
3 tsp Vanilla Extract
1 tsp Almond Extract
Rainbow Sprinkles
Pour milk and white chocolate into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until white chocolate is almost completely melted. DO NOT OVERHEAT. Stir until completely blended, melted, and smooth.
Immediately add vanilla and almond and combine thoroughly. Add a handful or so of rainbow sprinkles and fold in quickly, because they will melt (and if they are stirred for too long they’ll turn the fudge an ugly muddy color).
Transfer to an aluminum-foil lined 8×8 inch baking pan. Let set at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Once set, cut into cubes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in a cool place.

Thanks Tay for a Delicious recipe!!

Sausage & Cheddar Potatoes

2011-11-08T01:08:00.000-08:00

I cannot stress how important it is to me to have a sit down family dinner each night!! Imagine my feelings when I received this book:

It is full of great ideas, stories, quotes and recipes to help you make the family dinner a tradition. This book is an easy and enjoyable read. It uses real life examples and easy ways to make the most out of dinner!

·The Hour That Matters Most launched September 6, 2011

·For more information visit, www.thehourthatmattersmost.com

·Available for purchase on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

·Price: $15.99

There are great recipes at the end of each chapter. The Sausage and Cheddar Potatoes grabbed my attention. It was quick, easy and a big hit with the family.

*Sausage & Cheddar Potatoes
5 cups diced potatoes
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 Tablespoon green onions, chopped
2 Tablespoons cooked bacon bits
1 pound smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Layer two pieces of tinfoil about 18 inches long each criss cross over each other. Place potatoes in the middle of the top layer of foil. Cover with the remained ingredients in the order given.

Wrap first layer and tightly seal.

Bring the other layer over top and tightly seal again.

You could freeze at this point if you want. Otherwise

bake ate 375 degrees for 45-60 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

*I adapted it just a bit.

used: 1/2 cup diced onions

1 pound bacon cooked and chopped

1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese

1/2 cup lemon lime soda (I used diet)

YUM!
Recipe was taken from Hour that Matters Most by Les and Leslie Parrott with Stephanie Allen and Tina Kuna. Copyright © 2011 by Les and Leslie Parrott and Dream Dinners. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved

Bring your family to the table tonight!!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-11-07T00:37:00.000-08:00

Well Cross Country season is now officially over. It is my son's senior year so the last race was a bit sentimental for me. He had a great season and we finally discovered that he has a mitrochondrial disorder, which makes his passion for running a bit harder. Even with this issue he was able to take 3rd place in Districts and 8th place at State. It was incredible and I am so proud of him. Now on to my daughter's basketball season....

This Week's Menu
Monday:Cashew Chicken
Tuesday: Tacos
Wednesday: Crockpot Cheesy Chicken and Potatoes
Thursday:Picnic Night
Friday:Chicken Noodle Soup
Saturday: Chicken Ranch Pizza
Sunday: Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Have a delicious week!!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Newest Yoplait Smoothie Flavor & A Giveaway!

2011-11-02T00:37:00.000-07:00

Everyone wants a sweet treat now and again, so why not make it one you can feel good about? New Yoplait Chocolate Banana Smoothies are more than just delicious, they’re an easy, guilt-free, anytime snack with only 130 calories per serving. Perfect for at-home, or on- the-go, just add milk, blend, and enjoy!

* Yoplait Chocolate Banana Smoothie joins four delicious flavors of Yoplait Frozen Fruit and Yogurt Smoothies: Triple Berry, Strawberry Banana, Blueberry Pomegranate, and Strawberry Mango Pineapple.

*Yoplait Chocolate Banana Smoothies have live and active yogurt cultures, and deliver 50% of the recommended daily value of calcium.

*Available in your grocer’s freezer, each package contains enough frozen fruit and real Yoplait yogurt to make two 8 oz servings, when blended with 1 cup of skim milk.

*Visit http://www.myblogspark.com/uc/main/707b/ to download a printable coupon for $1.00 off one package of Yoplait Chocolate Banana Smoothie

OH YUM and that's not all one lucky reader will win this great gift package:

A VIP coupon for a sample of Yoplait Chocolate Banana Smoothie

Neck pillow

Smoothie tumbler

Lavender eye mask

To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie

and tell me what flavor of Yoplait smoothie you'd like to see next.

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on November 10, 2011

GOOD LUCK!! I'm off to make a smoothie!!

"The Yoplait^® VIP Coupon, information, and giveaway have been provided by Yoplait through MyBlogSpark." All opinions are my own.\

Ham & Cheese Pockets

2011-11-01T01:17:00.000-07:00

Ok..this recipe is not genius, but it is simple and delicious!! I needed something quick, but different to feed the family. It is something I came up with while running through the grocery store (one of those "what am I gonna fix for dinner?" panic moments!!) Luckily, it was a huge hit with the kids.

Ham & Cheese Pockets
makes 16 pockets
2 containers of 'Grands' biscuits
ham
shredded cheese
1 Tablespoon butter
1-2 teaspoons Parmesan cheese

Flatten out the biscuits.

Add your filling which in this case was ham and cheese.

Fold over and seal the edges tightly.

Melt the butter and add Parmesan cheese to it. Brush mixture on the tops of each pocket.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15-18 minutes or until light golden brown.

Serve and enjoy!

I ran out of ham so made a few with a cheese combo. They were delicious also. The filling possibilities are endless!!

I will be making these again soon!!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-10-31T00:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

I've missed my menu planning last week and it made my life so much more CRAZY!!

So on to this week!!

This Week's Menu

Monday:Meatloaf (from the freezer)

Tuesday:Chicken Noodle Soup

Wednesday:Chicken Pot Pie

Thursday: Taco Salad

Friday: Out of town for State Cross Country Meet

Saturday:Out of town

Sunday: Steak & Baked Potatoes

Have a great week!!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Pumpkin Squares

2011-10-28T01:30:00.000-07:00

It is the time for Pumpkin. This week my boss made lunch in a pumpkin, which was really fun for the kids!! I love pumpkin so bring on the recipes!! This one is delicious and simple to make.

Pumpkin Squares
2 cups canned pumpkin
1 cup oil (or 1/2 cup applesauce & 1/2 cup oil)
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Beat pumpkin, oil, sugar and eggs until well combined. Add the flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Mix well and pour into a greased cookie sheet (about 12 x 16 sized pan). Bake for 20 minutes or until done. Cool completely and frost.
Frosting
1 (8 oz.) cream cheese
2 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
Beat cream cheese until soft. Add vanilla, butter and mix well. Add powdered sugar a little at a time until all is mixed together well.

YUM!!

Karen's Ham chowder

2011-10-25T05:15:00.000-07:00

This is true comfort food and a long time family recipe! It is so delicious!! A HUGE thank you to my Aunt Karen for letting me pick her brain on the amounts of each ingredient. It originated from her mother-in-law and there were no amounts listed. With my Aunts help it turned out perfect and oh so delicious!!

Karen's Ham Chowder
3-4 medium potatoes
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced onions
2 cups diced ham (small pieces)
3 cups milk
1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Place a small amount of olive oil in a pan. On medium heat cook the onions for a couple of minutes and then add the ham. Cook until onion is clear and soft and ham is warmed through (just a little bit brown). Place potatoes, carrots and celery in a pot;barely cover them with water. Cook until just tender (becareful not to over cook). When veggies are tender add cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until combined. Add the ham, onion and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with crackers or french bread.

YUM!!

Want a "Nutter" Ghost...

2011-10-21T06:56:00.000-07:00

I saw these ghosts at a recent church event and thought they were darling! My girls saw them and have been bugging me to make some. What I couldn't believe is how quick and easy they are to make. What a fun treat to take someone or just surprise the family with.

Nutter Ghosts

Nutter Butter Cookies

almond bark or white chocolate meltaways

mini chocolate chips

Melt the chocolate in the microwave until smooth.

Dip each cookie in the chocolate.

Lay them on to wax paper.

Add two mini chocolate chip for eyes.

Let them dry a bit to set up.

Package to give away or store in a sealed container.

Cute and delicious!!

Linked to:

Fat Camp Friday

Friday Favorites

A Scone Tradition

2011-10-18T00:15:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I shared with you my Grandma's White Bread recipe. As I was making it I remembered an old family tradition of eating hot scones. YUM!! So I made two loaves of bread and turned the rest of the dough into scones. My children claimed they had never had scones before. How sad was that! They LOVED them. This is a super simple recipe, but my goal is to keep the tradition alive.

Simply Scones

bread dough

oil, canola or vegetable

Divide your dough into the desired size.

Roll each piece out a bit.

Heat your oil in a pan, medium/high heat. (you may need to adjust it.)

Place dough in the oil. Cook about a minute on each side or until golden brown.

Drain on a paper towel.

Now the topping choices are endless:

butter, honey, sugar, cinnamon or ect!!

Enjoy they are delicious!!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-10-17T00:30:00.000-07:00

This Week's Menu
Monday: Crescent Chicken Bundles
Tuesday: Ham Chowder
Wednesday: Spaghetti Casserole
Thursday: Picnic Night
Friday: Chicken Alfredo
Saturday: Pizza
Sunday: Ham Fried Rice/Egg Rolls

The winner of the Heart to Heart Girl Giveaway chosen by random number generator,
Congratulations to :
Erin@ Making Memories...One Fun Thing After Another

Have a Delicious Week!!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Pumpkin Spice Cake

2011-10-14T01:36:00.000-07:00

Love, love, love pumpkin goodies!! This one was so delicious and a huge hit with everyone. One of the little boys in my preschool class told me, "They weren't good, they weren't great, they were FANTASTIC!!"

Pumpkin Spice Cake
1 16 oz. can pumpkin
4 eggs
3/4 cup oil
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 cups sugar
2 cups flour
1 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon soda
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Beat together pumpkin, eggs, oil and vanilla until smooth. Add the rest of the ingredients and beat again. Stir in chocolate chips. Pour into a greased 9 x 13 pan. Bake 30-35 minutes. Frost when still slightly warm.

Frosting:
8 oz. cream cheese
2 teaspoons vanilla
1/2 cup butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
pinch of salt
Beat cream cheese. butter, vanilla and salt together. Slowly add powdered sugar slowly until fluffy and frosting consistency. Spread over warm cake.

Store covered in the refridgerator.

YUM!!

Celebrating the Star Wars Saga with Big G Cereals Giveaway!

2011-10-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

Calling all Star Wars™ fans! Now you can take the Star Wars adventures to new heights by bringing home STAR WARS THE COMPLETE SAGA on Blu-ray Disc now!! Relive the unforgettable moments and experience the spectacular adventure of STAR WARS The Complete Saga in a way only Blu-ray can deliver.

This incredible collection unites all six Episodes together for the first time in stunning high definition with the purest digital sound in the galaxy. With over 40 hours of thrilling special features, including all-new content created exclusively for this release, you can journey deeper into the Star Wars universe and discover more than ever before. Feel the Force of STAR WARS The Complete Saga on Blu-ray.

In honor of the release, select General Mills Big G cereals have a limited edition Star Wars good versus evil image on their packaging, which when combined creates a full panoramic poster.

Exclusively at Walmart, look for specially marked boxes of Big G cereals, including Honey Nut Cheerios^®, Cinnamon Toast Crunch^®, and Lucky Charms^®. Collect all three to create a Star Wars panoramic poster showcasing your favorite characters, like Darth Vadar™, Luke Skywalker™, Han Solo™, Princess Leia™ and more.

Marking the first time ever that the full Saga is available in one complete collection, the 9-disc STAR WARS: THE COMPLETE SAGA is now available on Blu-ray, courtesy of Lucasfilm Ltd. and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.

Now for the great news, One lucky reader will win:

One box of each of the following cereals to form their own Star Wars panoramic poster:
Honey Nut Cheerios

Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Lucky Charms

$25 Walmart gift card

AWESOME!!

To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and tell me which Star Wars character is your favorite!!

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on October 20. 2011.

May the force be with you!!

Disclosure: The cereal, gift card, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark. All opnions are my own.

Cheesy Enchilada Sauce

2011-10-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

My good friend and I share a love of Mexican food. We would find every excuse in the world to go out to lunch and have Mexican food almost all the time. I miss her so I was excited when she sent me this recipe. It is similar to a the one used at a local restaurant we used to go to. It is so flavorful and oh so DELICIOUS!! It was the perfect sauce for enchildas and a huge hit with the whole family!!

Cheesy Enchilada Sauce
2 Tablespoons flour
1 garlic clove, minced
2 Tablespoons Vegetable oil
3 Tablespoons chili powder
1 cup milk
1 cup beef broth
1/3 cup salsa
1/8 teaspoon oregano
1/8 teaspoon ground cumin
6 oz. velveeta cheese, cubed
Cook flour and garlic in veg. oil over low heat stirring constantly, until flour is lightly browned. Stir in chili powder. Gradually add milk, broth, salsa, oregano, and cumin. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, 5 minutes. Add velveeta cheese and stir until melted.

Pour a small amount in the bottom of your dish and over top of your prepared enchiladas. This time I made mine with shredded beef, onions, pinto beans, tomatoes and cheese. They were delicious!!

Thanks Katie for such an incredible recipe!!

Celebrating National Cookie Month with Tate's Bake Shop & A Bonus Giveaway!

2011-10-09T01:00:00.000-07:00

This week I received an incredible package from Tate's Bake Shop, the award-winning bakery in Southampton, NY owned and operated by Kathleen King. My family and I had the opportunity to try out their Whole Wheat Dark Chocolate Chip cookies.

They sent me three packages and you will notice there are only 2 in the picture...

I opened the package and let's say they were gone before I could take the picture....

DELICIOUS!!

I know why they recently won GOLD in the Cookie category at the 2011 sofi™ Awards, presented at the Fancy Food Show (known as the Oscars® of the specialty food industry) in Washington, DC.

I loved that they are made with all natural ingredients. My family did not even notice they are made of whole wheat flour! YAY!! These crispy buttery cookies melt in your mouth.

Trust me you cannot eat just one or even two...YUM!!

I was also so excited to receive the Tate's Bake Shop Cookbook signed by the author and owner!!

According to Kathleen, each recipe is designed to “take less time to make than it would to go to a store to buy a commercially prepared baked good.” An important concept in my CRAZY life!

Kathleen has been baking since she was 11 years old, selling chocolate chip cookies at her family’s farm stand. Those chocolate chip cookies have since been voted America’s Favorite Chocolate Chip cookie by Rachel Ray, and Tate’s Bake Shop now offers many more cookie flavors, as well as a variety of Kathleen’s signature traditional American desserts such as cakes, pies, crumbles and more. The love Kathleen has put into her business over the last 40 years shows: you can taste it in every bite.

Since October is National Cookie Month and it’s a perfect time to celebrate America’s favorite dessert Tate's Bake Shop is offering one lucky reader the same prize package I received (3 packages of cookies and a signed cookbook)!! OH IT IS A GOOD ONE!!

To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and like Tate's Bake Shop on Facebook.

For additional entries:

Follow Tate's Bake Shop on Twitter.

Visit Tate's Bake Shop and tell me which kind of cookie or other goodie you'd love to try!

Please leave me a comment for each one!

Giveaway only valid for USA Residents

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on October 17, 2011.

Now for those of us that can't wait Tate's Bake Shop is offering a 15% discount for all orders through the end of October. Just use the password COOKIE.

Now let the celebration for National Cookie Month begin. I am off to find that last package (that I hid) of Tate's Cookies. OH YUM!

I received this gift package from Tate's Bake Shop, no other compensation was provided. All opinons are my own.

Double Cheese Pasta with Bacon

2011-10-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

We are in full swing of the cross country season, so pasta dishes are a must the night before the races. I get tired of the same thing each time so I am experimenting. This one turned out great!! The whole family loved it. I used rigatoni, but any pasta would work.

Double Cheese Pasta with Bacon
adapted from Taste of Home
1 package pasta (16-18 oz.)
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
2 cups half and half cream
2 cups milk
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6 oz. provolone cheese (more or less)
1 lb bacon, cooked crisp and broken into pieces
sliced mushrooms (optional)
Cook pasta according to package directions.
In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter, stir in the flour, salt, pepper and garlic salt until smooth. Gradually add cream and milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in the cheeses. Until all is melted and smooth.
Drain pasta, transfer to a large bowl, add the cheese mixture, bacon and mushrooms. Toss to coat.

Transfer to a greased 9 x13 pan. Bake uncovered, at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.

Delicious!

Linked to:

Foodie Friday

Sopapilla Cheesecake Dessert

2011-10-06T08:30:00.000-07:00

I saw this recipe over a Making Memories..One Fun Thing After Another and knew it would be perfect for a "Tried it Out Thursday" post. It comes from an incredible blog with lots of creative and yummy things go and check it out! This recipe did not disappoint. It was SO DELICIOUS and easy!! Thanks Erin!

Sopapilla Cheesecake Dessert
from Making Memories..One Fun Thing After Another
2 cans of Pillsbury Crescent rolls
2 (8 oz.) packages of cream cheese, softened (I used light)
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
1/4 cup butter melted
cinnamon
sugar
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Unroll and spread 1 of the cans of crescent rolls on the bottom of a lightly greased 9 x13 inch pan. Combine the cream cheese, 1 cup sugar and vanilla. Spread over top of the crescent roll layer. (This will look like a ton of cream cheese, but trust me it works!) Unroll the remaining can of crescent rolls on a sheet of wax paper and roll it out a bit with a rolling pin or by hand. Then pick up the wax paper and place the dough on top of the cream cheese filling. Then peel off the wax paper.

Pour the melted butter over the top and sprinkle generously with cinnamon and sugar (I started with 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon but added a little bit more.)

Bake for 20-30 minutes or until bubbly and slightly browned. Let cool a bit, slice and eat!!

*You can half this recipe and it will fit in an 8x8 pan perfectly.

This is so Yummy!!
PS. They are also very delicious cold!!

Hearts For Hearts Girls Doll Line & A Great Giveaway!

2011-10-05T01:25:00.000-07:00

Changing the World One Heart at a Time! That is the goal of the new Hearts For Hearts Girls doll line and fashion collection from Playmates Toys. The collection features six dolls from around the world, each with an inspiring story to share.

The authentically dressed and lifelike dolls each represent a girl who is working to change her community in ways that are unique to her home country. Included with each doll are a friendship bracelet and a story booklet that explains how these multicultural girls live and contribute to their families, communities, and culture. Each doll also comes with a special code that unlocks a free membership to the kid-safe Hearts for Hearts Girls Website, which features:

Additional information about each of the Hearts For Hearts Girls and the countries in which they live
Educational activities and lively games that are fun and rich in culture
Intriguing stories about real girls who are making a difference
While all girls are welcome to visit the site, the code unlocks access to additional features, including a larger array of games and a “myHeart” page

To further bring to light each Hearts For Hearts Girls’ culture, additional outfits are available for the dolls, so that your little girl can envision her doll’s story as she plays and changes the doll’s attire.

My daughter LOVES her doll!!

Additionally, through a partnership with World Vision3, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of each Hearts For Hearts Girls doll is donated to programs that support girls in that doll’s country. Whether it’s malaria nets in Africa, schoolbooks in Asia, or food supplies in the United States, these programs help girls to thrive and succeed.

Meet the six Hearts For Hearts Girls:

Help to make a difference one doll at a time by reviewing your very own doll from the Hearts For Hearts Girls line which debuted in stores this fall! In addition, you can visit http://bit.ly/ShopH4HG to purchase a Hearts For Hearts Girl doll for a loved one today!

Now for the great news!!

One lucky reader will win:

One Hearts For Hearts Girl, accompanied by a friendship bracelet, story booklet, donation for girls in need through partner World Vision and a special product code your daughter can use to unlock a free membership to the Hearts For Hearts Girls website, which provides access to the “myHeart” page and an array of games and activities.

An outfit that is authentic to one of the Hearts for Hearts Girls’ culture, in which your daughter can also dress her doll.

This is an amazing gift package that any girl will LOVE!!

To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and tell me which Heart to Hearts Girls doll you or your daughter most like to meet and learn more about.

Winner will be chosen by random number generator on October 15, 2011.

These are darling dolls!

Have Fun!

The Hearts For Hearts Girls doll, and information have been provided by Playmates Toys through MyBlogSpark. All opinions are my own.

Beef & Potato Casserole

2011-10-04T02:30:00.000-07:00

This is pure comfort food! A sweet neighbor brought it too my family after one of our babies was born. It may not look beautiful but it is very delicious! My children love it. I served it with a veggie mixture.

Beef & Potato Casserole
1 pound hamburger
1/4-1/2 cup onions, diced
5-6 medium sized potatoes
1 (10 3/4 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 (10 3/4 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
salt & pepper to taste.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Brown and drain hamburger and onions. Season just a bit.
Peel and dice potatoes in to bit sized pieces. Put in a saucepan with some water and boil a few minutes just to soften them a bit. Drain.
In a big bowl mix soups, 1 cup cheese, sour cream and salt and pepper to taste. Add hamburger and potatoes and mix until all is coated. Place in a greased 9 x 13 inch pan. Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly and hot.

Let sit for just a couple minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-10-03T00:30:00.000-07:00

Last week was so much fun spending time with family! We had the opportunity to attend 3 baseball games, 2 cross counrty meets, pick some blackberries, have tons of laughs and much more!! It went by so fast. A HUGE THANKS to them for coming to visit!! Now it is back to my crazy life.

This Week's Menu
Monday: BBQ Beef Sandwiches
Tuesday: Sweet Salsa Chicken
Wednesday: Chicken Pesto with Pasta
Thursday: Picnic Night
Friday:Beef Enchiladas
Saturday: Pizza
Sunday: Dinner Nachos

Have a Wonderful Week!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Chocolate Buttermilk Zucchini Cake

2011-09-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

My awesome parents brought me lots of goodies from their garden!! Zucchini was one of the great items and my mom provided this great recipe. Serve with whipped cream or whipped topping on the top and YUM!!

Chocolate Buttermilk Zucchini Cake
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup oil
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup buttermilk*
2 1/2 cups flour
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking soda
4 Tablespoons cocoa
2 cups grated zucchini
chocolate chips
Optional: Whipped topping
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Cream together sugars, butter and oil. Mix in eggs, vanilla and buttermilk. Gradually add the flour, cinnamon, baking soda and cocoa. Stir in the zucchini.

Pour into a greased 9 x13 inch pan.

Sprinkle the top with chocolate chips. (add a few more than I did.)

Bake at 325 degrees for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and cool. Serve with whipped topping.

*I used a buttermilk substitute: Mix 1 Tablespoon lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let sit for 5 minutes.

Delicious way to use some zucchini!
Thanks Mom!

Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies

2011-09-29T09:21:00.000-07:00

I have been missing my "Tried it Out Thursday Posts",

so I figured today was a good day to get back on track with a great recipe!!

I have a HUGE weakness for soft and chewy sugar cookies! I have tried several recipes in the past but none have quite got the chewy texture that I like. When I saw this recipe over at Healthy Eating for Ordinary People I had to try it out. My findings were THESE COOKIES ARE NOW MY FAVORITE!! They are soft, chewy and very delicious. In fact I had to give most of them to the neighbors otherwise I would of eaten the whole batch.

Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies
adapted from Healthy Eating for Ordinary People
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
6 tablespoons butter, melted and still warm
1/3 cup oil
1 large egg
1 tablespoon milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup sugar - colored or white

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly spray sheeting with cooking oil.

Put the 1½ cups of sugar and the cream cheese into a large bowl of an electric mixer. Pour the butter in and combine. Add in the oil and mix for a minute or so. Add the egg, milk, and vanilla. Mix for another minute or so. Add the flour, soda, baking powder and salt and mix for another minute or two until a soft dough forms.

Spread the remaining 1/3 cup sugar in a separate shallow bowl.

Pinch off even pieces of dough, about 2 tablespoons each. (The original recipe suggests that you separate 24 pieces first to be sure they are all the same size.) Use your hands to roll the dough into balls. Roll each ball in the sugar to coat it. Space the balls evenly on the baking sheet, 12 per sheet. Use the bottom of a cup to flatten the dough balls slightly. Sprinkle the tops evenly with a bit more sugar. * I used my cookie scoop.

Bake until the edges are set and just beginning to brown, 10 to 12 minutes. You want them light colored. Cool the cookies for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack and allowing to cool completely.

Usually when I make sugar cookies my family insist on having frosting on them. The frosting was not missed at all with these cookies!

YUM!

Think I need to bake a batch today!!

New Great Breakfasts From Pillsbury & A Giveaway!

2011-09-28T09:17:00.000-07:00

Weekday mornings can feel like a balancing act. Between scrambling to get yourself ready and the kids dressed for school, it can be a challenge to fit in a good, hot breakfast that will set you up for a good day. Now Pillsbury is bringing your weekend favorites to the weekday breakfast table with new Pillsbury Grands!^® Biscuit Sandwiches

and Pillsbury Egg Scrambles™.

*Available in your grocer’s freezer, Pillsbury Grands! Biscuit Sandwiches and Pillsbury Egg Scrambles heat up in minutes in the microwave.

*Made with quality ingredients like fluffy real egg, tasty meat, cheese, Grands! Biscuits and Green Giant® vegetables, the new line of quick and delicious frozen breakfast dishes comes in six flavorful choices:

Sausage & Cheese Biscuit Sandwich

Bacon & Cheese Biscuit Sandwich

Ham & Veggies Biscuit Sandwich

Bacon & Veggies Egg Scrambles

Sausage Egg Scrambles

Sausage & Veggies Egg Scrambles

My family ate them up before I even got a chance to try them myeslf, but take it from them they were delicious!! Got to go back to the store for more!! It is always a great feeling to send the kids out the door knowing that they had a good hot breakfast. These are so perfect for my family's crazy mornings!!

Now thanks to Pillsbury one lucky reader will get the chance with this great gift pack:

3 coupons to purchase a free package of new Pillsbury Grands! Biscuit Sandwiches or Pillsbury Egg Scrambles

A Doughboy Keychain &

A Doughboy Beanie Doll

(Sorry for the lack of pictures..my son used the Doughboy as part of his box asking a girl to homecoming.

"Will you "Dough" to the dance with me?")

To enter: Be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and tell me:

How will new Pillsbury Frozen Grands! Biscuit Sandwiches and Pillsbury Egg Scrambles could help you start a great day?

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on October 6, 2011.

Have a great day!!

The VIP coupons, prize pack, information, and giveaway have been
provided by Pillsbury through MyBlogSpark. All opinions are my own.

Stacks of Snacks

2011-09-27T01:30:00.000-07:00

This is one of the recipes I made for the Honey Nut Cheerios party. It was a HUGE hit and we had no leftovers. It is simple and delicous!

Stacks of Snacks
from Cheerios
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 cup butter
2 cups Honey Nut Cheerios
2 cups old fashioned oats
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a saucepan, heat brown sugar and butter over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth. Remove from heat.
Stir in remaining ingredients. Pour mixture into a lightly greased 9 x 13 inch pan. Spread mixture in pan until even.
Bake 16-18 minutes or until edges are golden brown and firm. Remove from oven. Cool completely.
Cut and serve.

YUM!! Watch out they are addicting!!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-09-26T13:05:00.000-07:00

For the last three years my brother and I have started a tradition of attending the last few baseball games of the season. This year my parents came too. We are so excited to have family here! Family and Baseball I am in HEAVEN!! So the menu for the first part of the week is hopefully simple and quick.

This Week's Menu
Monday: Tacos
Tuesday: BBQ Chicken Pizza
Wednesday: Beef Stronganoff
Thursday:White Chicken Chili
Friday: Beef Noodle Bowl
Saturday: Make & Take Sandwiches
Sunday: Roast

Have a great week!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Pasta Milano

2011-09-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a simple delicious Italian dish that rivals one that you can get at a restaurant this is your recipe!! I had not made it for some time and wow had forgotten how good it is! We had some people over for dinner and everyone had seconds, some had thirds!! Good thing I doubled the recipe.

Pasta Milano
12 oz uncooked bowtie (farfalle) pasta
Sauce
1 Tablespoon butter
1 cup sliced mushrooms (more or less)
1/4 cup diced onions
1 1/2 cups half & half
1 packet (1.6 oz.) Knorr Garlic Herb sauce mix
1 package bacon cooked crisp and broken into small pieces.
2 cups cooked and diced chicken breast.
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1 Tablespoon Parmesan Cheese
Cook pasta according to package directions.
While pasta is cooking: Melt 1 teaspoon of the butter in a large skillet on medium heat. Add mushrooms and onions. Saute 5 minutes or until tender. Remove from pan.
Add half & half and sauce mix to the skillet.

Stir to blend. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce head and simmer 3 minutes or until thickened.

Stir in the remaining 2 teaspoons butter, the mushroom/onion mixture, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, and parmesan cheese. Cook stirring for 1 minute or until heated through.
Drain pasta reserving 1/4 cup cooking water. Return pasta to the pot; add the sauce and cooking water. Toss to mix.

Here's what the sauce mix looks like. I found it at Winco.

This pasta was so DELICIOUS!!

YUM!!

Linked to:
Fat Camp Friday
Friday Favorites
Foodie Friday

A Honey Nut Cheerios Party!!

2011-09-22T01:00:00.000-07:00

As most of you know my son is a runner and he has specific routines he has to do before each race. One of those things is he always eats Honey Nut Cheerios for breakfast. So when I was contacted by General Mills about the opportunity to throw a Honey Nut Cheerios party I could not refuse. Since Kody is captain of the cross country team we used it as a team bonding party!! The boys LOVED it!

It was quite the party! "The After Practice Team Snack."

The Hive Five!!

The Team Captains!

Loving the Honey Nut Cheerios.

I found out runners can eat lots of cereal..

and other goodies with Honey Nut Cheerios in them.

Check out the cute shirts!!

The boys had a great time and were so excited and gracious!

A HUGE thank you to General Mills for providing all the fixings for a awesome party!!

and Thanks to my good friend Liz for helping me out!!

We can't forget "BUZZ" (everyone loved him)

and the little bees!!

They support their brothers' at each meet! Gotta fuel them up with Honey Nut Cheerios also!!

I must admit it was a GREAT PARTY!!
GOOD LUCK WRHS CROSS COUNTRY TEAM!! This is gonna be an awesome year!!

General Mills provided me with a party package. No other compensation was given. All opinions are my own.

Box Top$ for Education Giveaway

2011-09-21T01:00:00.000-07:00

This school year, giving back to your school can be as easy as looking for the Red Spoon on your favorite Betty Crocker^® dessert mixes, the only brand in the baking aisle with Box Tops.

Whether you’re collecting for new computers, library books, or a playground, through the Box Tops for Education^® program you can help make a difference. Last year, your contributions earned more than $59 million for America’s schools!

I had the opportunity to be the Box Top's for Education Coordinator for my kids' school for several years. It was amazing to see how much just clipping the box tops helped the school out!! So I am a huge supporter of this great program.

Now, you can find Box Tops for Education on all Betty Crocker baking mixes*, including new Fun da-middles™, individual cupcakes with a fun, creamy center. This back-to-school season, look for double Box Tops on specially marked packages of Betty Crocker baking mixes.

For great baking tips, recipe ideas and information on Betty Crocker products,

visit www.BettyCrocker.com

Now to get you started with your box top collection,

A great prize pack will be given to one lucky reader:

A Betty Crocker Mix

Cupcake iclips
Cupcake bag

Cupcake notepads

Box Tops for Education pencils

Neoprene Lunch Sack

This is a super great gift pack!

To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and tell me which product with a box top is your favorite!

Winner will be chosen by random number generator on September 30, 2011.

The Betty Crocker products, information, and giveaway have been provided by Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark." All opinions are my own.

Suzie's German Chocolate Cake

2011-09-20T00:30:00.000-07:00

When my son asked me to make a German Chocolate Cake for his birthday, I knew the perfect recipe to try and it was so delicious!! This recipe was sent to me by Suzie and I LOVED it!! The whole family LOVED it!!

Suzie's German Chocolate Cake
1 (8 1/4 oz) white cake mix
5.9 oz. pkg, instant chocolate putdding mix
1 c. milk
1 c. water
3 egg whites
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl at medium speed for 2 minutes. Pour into 2 greased and floured round cake pans. bake at 350 degrees for 25-35 minutes Cool 10 minutes in pans and remove cool completely before frosting.

Frosting:
1 1/2c. evaporated milk
1 1/2c. sugar
4 egg yolks
2/3 c. butter
1/1/2 t. vanilla extract
1 1/2 c. flaked coconut
1 1/2 c. slivered almonds (or chopped pecans)
Combine milk, sugar, egg yolks and butter in a heavy saucepan; bring to a boil and cook over medium heat 12 minutes, stirring constantly. add vanilla, coconut and pecans; stir until frosting is cool and spreadable. frost cake.

Suzie's note: What i really love about this cake is the cake itself, it has no oil or butter in it and the egg whites make the consistency light and fluffy and unique! Really really really, yes, really DELISH cake!

I agree it is so YUMMY!!

Thanks Suzie for sharing it with me!!

PS. I Love when you send me recipes!!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-09-19T00:58:00.000-07:00

A HUGE THANKS to all of you for your sweet comments and for making the Blogiversary week so amazing!! Congratulations to the winners chosen by random number generator. :

Cookbook & Such: Debbi Does Dinner... Healthy & Low Calorie

Girard"s Dressing Pack: Happier Than A Pig In Mud

Yoplait's Lids to Save Lives Gift Pack: At Home with Michelle

There's one more day to enter the final Thank You Blogiversary giveaway.!

Monday: Beef & Potatoes
Tuesday:Sweet & Sour Meatballs
Wednesday: Lasagna
Thursday: Picnic Night
Friday: Skillet Ham & Cheese Pasta
Saturday: Sub Sandwiches
Sunday: Mexican Chicken Salads

Off an running this week, trying to keep up with my kids!!

Happy Eating!!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Strawberry/Rhubarb Jam

2011-09-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

This jam is so delicious and so simple to make. A good friend brought it to us and my family fell in love! It is my familys' favorite hands down!! We have been out of it for about a year, so I was thrilled when a friend gave me some rhubarb off her plant.

Strawberry/Rhubarb Jam
makes about 3 pints of jam (I usually double it if I can.)
5 cups chopped rhubarb
4 cups sugar
1 (3 oz.) package strawberry jello
Put the rhubarb and sugar in a large pot. Let stand until the sugar is dissolved. Stir once in awhile. (This takes a couple hours).

Over medium high heat bring to a boil. Boil for 15 minutes. Stirring constantly.

Take off heat ad stir in the stawberry jello. Ladle into clean bottles. Process in boiling water canner for 10 minutes. *Check the time for the altitude you live it.

Thanks Terri for an amazing recipe!!

Oh YUM!! I'm suddenly craving a PB& J sandwich!!

Muddy Buddies~The Screaming Snack!!

2011-09-13T01:30:00.000-07:00

Last Friday night I was craving something sweet, but needed it to be quick and simple. Then I remembered this recipe that one of my son's friends introduced us to a few years ago. DELICIOUS!! The great thing is my kids were outside playing when I made them. My youngest came in and said, "Oh something smells good!" She wandered over to the counter saw the Muddy Buddies and started to scream with delight!! It was hilarious!! So now I call them "The Screaming Snack!!

Muddy Buddies
From Chex.com
9 cups corn chex (or other flavor)
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Measure cereal into a large bowl and set aside.
In a microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter uncovered on high for 1 minute. Stir. Microwave aabout 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over cereal and stir until evenly coated. Add powdered sugar and mix until evenly coated or place mixture in a resealable bag and shake the powered sugar on the cereal. Spread out on wax paper to cool. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator.

Next time I will make a double batch because they were gone in a flash!!

YUM!!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-09-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Last week I made some Cream Cheese Cookie Bars to take to a church event. When I took the tinfoil off I was in for a big surprise. One of my children had gotten into them first..

It's was a heart..so I couldn't be upset. In fact I found it cute and quite clever!!

I found out later it was my son who will officially start the cross country season this week!

So be prepared for lots of pasta in our diets the next few months!!

We have another super crazy week ahead so menu planning is a must!

This Week's Menu
Monday: Spaghetti
Tuesday: Hawaiian Haystacks
Wednesday: White Chicken Chili
Thursday:Picnic Night
Friday: Ravioli
Saturday: Pizza
Sunday: Chalupas

Don't foget to enter the giveaways!!

Happy Eating!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Clorox & Back to School!!

2011-09-11T12:23:00.000-07:00

My kids have now been back in school just over a week! They are loving it, which is always a huge relief for us moms. Last week I received this cool Clorox Back to School kit courtesy of DailyBuzz Moms Tastemaker & Clorox. Such perfect timing for the crazy beginning of the school year.

A Brita Water bottle, Glad To Go Lunch Containers and a container of Clorox wipes.

The Brita water bottle has it's own filter, so perfect for the kids to take to school and no more yucky tasting water.

There was a fight over who would get to take the bottle, but my runner won!!

He needs to keep hydrated and this will be perfect! It is a great size.

I am in LOVE with these Glad containers. They are brilliant.

Notice how they include a small container just for salad dressing and it fits directly into the lid.

So perfect!! Especially since we are trying to eat healthier.

Salad for lunch will be a breeze now!!

Clorox wipes are a staple at my house. I love how they disinfect and leave the area smelling clean and fresh!

These new items will definitely help me keep the household more organized, healthy and clean!

I received these items courtesy of DailyBuzz Moms Tastemaker program in partnership with Clorox.

All opinions are my own.

Thank You & A Blogiversary Giveaway!!

2011-09-09T19:22:00.000-07:00

First of all I wanted to THANK YOU my readers for all the wonderful and sweet comments this week!! You made a super crazy week fun!!

To end the celebration I am gonna share with you a FEW recipes my family asks for over and over!!

Strawberry Fruit Dip

Bowtie Spinach Salad

Perfect Pulled Pork

Chicken Crescent Bundles

Chocolate Caramel Cookies

Peanut Butter Bars

Grandma's Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

There you have it just a brief look at the Family's Faves!!

Now for the great part... I have one more giveaway!!

One lucky reader will win:

Two dip mixes:

Oregon Ranch and Bacon Cheese

a bowl for your dip and

my very favorite gadget right now an

Onion Keeper.

My mom bought me one and I LOVE it. I can cut up onions and put them in the keeper.

They stay fresh and best of all no onion smell!!

To enter be a follower and leave me a comment!!

Easy Peasy!!

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on September 19, 2011!

BEST WISHES and THANKS AGAIN!!

Support Yoplait's "Save Lids to Save Lives" & a Giveaway!

2011-09-08T00:31:00.000-07:00

Help fund breast cancer programs in your own community!

For every pink lid redeemed before December 31. 2011, Yoplait will donate 10 cents to

the Susan B. Komen for the Cure. They will donate up to 2 million dollars to benefit breast cancer outreach programs and research in your community!

Every lid matters!!

Look for pink lids on your favorite Yoplait products this fall and redeem your lids online, by mail or both!
This is an easy way for all of us to help out with such a great cause. You can find all the information over at Yoplait Save Lids to Save Lives.

To help get us all started with this great cause one lucky reader will win a great PINK prize package:

~ tote

~ journal

~pen

~key change

~lid collection box

~2 coupons for a free Yoplait Yogurt

Believe me it is a great package!!

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on September 16. 2011

To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and leave me a comment telling me what you like most about this program!!

Let's all "Save Lids To Save Lives"!

The products, information, and giveaway have been provided by Yoplait through MyBlogSpark. All opinions are my own.

The Celebration Continues: The Top Viewed Recipes of All Time!

2011-09-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

In honor of the blogiversary celebration I checked Google stats and these were the 5 recipes that have been viewed the most! It was a little surprising to me, but they are all very delicious!!

5. Corn Bread & Chili Casserole

4. Cilantro Rice

3. Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf

2. Crock Pot White Chicken Chili

1. Gail's Italian Spaghetti Sauce

Don't forget to enter this week's giveaways!

There are more to come!!

BEST WISHES!

Girard's Delicious Dressings & A Giveaway!!

2011-09-06T07:36:00.000-07:00

Last year I had the incredible opportunity to try out some of the Girard's dressings. They were so delicious!! So you can imagine my excitement when they asked me to become one of their Girard's Epicurean Expert network.

Girard's sent me an imcredible kitchen kit!

~A twill full length enbroidered apron with pockets.

~Eco friendly bamboo wood utensil kit.

~100% Natural cotton tote bag.

~Stainless steel soap: to remove food odors during food preparation.

~This super cool recipe holder and some great recipes.

and.....

Four of the newest varieties of Girard's Dressings!

*Light Champagne

*Old Venice Italian

*White Balsamic Vinaigrette

*Greek Feta Vinaigrette

Can you say DELICIOUS!!

I LOVE how versatile they are. You can do so many things with Girard's dressings.

and now for the GREAT NEWS!!

Girard's has graciously offered to send one lucky reader

A box with these four same dressings in it!!

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on September 15, 2011

To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and leave me a comment telling me which of Girard's dressings you are dying to try first!!

GOOD LUCK!!

The gift box, dressings and giveaway were provided by Girard's. All opinions are on my own.

Let the Celebration Begin!!

2011-09-05T03:00:00.000-07:00

LET'S CELEBRATE!!

I can hardly believe that it has been 2 years since I started this blog.

This was my very first post and probably my family's favorite cookie:

Kody's Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies

What a fabulous adventure it has been!! I have met so many wonderful people, been introduced to amazing new foods and recipes. I LOVE reading your comments and checking out your blogs!!

To celebrate properly this week's posts will be a bit different than the usual to honor you my followers and readers!! Expect some random things and it's not a celebration with out some gifts!!

For the first giveaway..

A set of red spoons and a set of measuring spoons and cups and best of all:

A great local Cook Book from my high school and my dad's softball team. Which was graciously provided by my SWEET MOM!!

It has some great recipes in it. Some of my dad's favorites's provided by my mom.

The Buttermilk Syrup Recipe came from there! OH YUM!!

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on September 12, 2011

To enter leave me a comment. For additional entries tell me what you would like to see

here on One Crazy Cookie this next year!!

A huge THANKS to all of YOU!!

Oreo Ice Cream Cake

2011-09-02T01:08:00.000-07:00

This is one of those cakes, people will think that you spent hours creating. When in fact it is so simple and very delicious! My kids were raving about it. Now they all want me to make it for their birthdays.

Oreo Ice Cream Cake
adapted from Kraft
1/2 cup hot fudge ice cream topping, warmed
1 (8 oz.) container whipped topping, thawed
1 (4 serving) chocolate instant pudding
8 Oreo Cookies, chopped
12 vanilla ice cream sandwiches
Pour fudge topping into a medium bowl, add 1 cup of the whipped topping; stir until well blended. Add dry pudding mix; stir for 2 minutes or until well blended. Gently stir in the chopped Oreos. Set aside.
Unwrap the ice cream sandwiches. Arrange 4 of them side by side on a 24 inch long piece of tin foil.
Top with half of the whipped topping mixture. Repeat layers. Top with remaining 4 sandwiches. Frost top and sides of cake with the remaining whipped topping. Bring up the foil sides. Double fol top and ends to loosely seal packet.
Freeze atleast 4 hours before serving.

Mine wasn't beautiful, but it was YUMMY!!

ENJOY!!

Linked to:

Friday Favorites
Foodie Friday

Cereal Treat Bars & A Back to School Giveaway!

2011-08-31T05:36:00.000-07:00

Well time has come to send the kids back to school. Time to think about getting up early, homework and packing kids lunches once again!

If keeping up with your kids’ changing tastes feels like a full-time job, then Betty Crocker/General Mills has got your back with Cereal Treats Bars, a fully-loaded flavorsome snack! When sending your child back to school this year, help them get “back to cool” with a fun snack they are sure to love and won’t trade during lunch. My kids loved these bars! They ate them up before I could say "WAIT I wanted them for lunches." So I guess I will be buying some more. My soon to be 2nd grader just told me I have to buy some more Golden Graham Treat bars!!

Flavor varieties include the ever popular Golden Grahams® (130 calories) and new Lucky Charms® Treats (100 calories), loaded with popular favorites like chocolate and marshmallows.
Cereal Treats Bars contain less than 140 calories per bar and are made with wholesome cereal, making them a snack option that you can feel good about giving your kids.
TWO Box Tops for Education seals on each box of Cereal Treat Bars, making earning cash for your school doubly cool!

Now for a great BACK TO SCHOOL GIVEAWAY!

One lucky reader will win this great prize package:

One box of Lucky Charms^® Cereal Treats Bars

One box of Golden Grahams^® Cereal Treats Bars

Lunch bag

Locker whiteboard

Colored pencil set

It is such a fun package!!

To enter be a follower of One Crazy Cookie and leave me a comment telling me which flavor of treat bars you would love to try!

Winner will be drawn by random number generator on
September 8, 2011.

Easy Peasy!

Best wishes for a great new school year!!

Disclosure: Cereal Treats Bars, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Grandma's White Bread

2011-08-30T00:38:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I have been working on converting my family to wheat bread for awhile and they are now getting used to it, but when the kids begged me for homemade white bread I caved! Can you say pure comfort food!! This recipe has been in the family for generations. It brings back great memories of my grandma and I honestly had forgotten how good this bread is. It is easy to make and oh so DELICIOUS!! A HUGE thanks to my Aunt Linda for keeping the recipe going and for sharing it with me!!

Grandma's White Bread

Makes 6 pans or 4 if you half the recipe

2 cups milk
3/4 cup sugar
9 teaspoons salt
3/4 cup butter
6 cups warm water
4 Tablespoons yeast
24 cups flour
Put the milk, sugar, butter and salt in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium high heat stirring constantly just until the mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and allow it to cool down.
(This is an important step. Sometimes I put it in the fridge for little while.) Put the warm water in mixing bowl, add the yeast and a pinch of sugar. Stir and allow to yeast to bubble a bit (about five minutes) Stir in the milk mixture. Add half the flour and mix until smooth. Keep adding flour until the dough is smooth and elastic. Raise in a warm place until doubled. Punch down and let it rest for 15 minutes. Shape into loaves and place into greased bread pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes or until golden brown and hollow sounding when you tap the top. Remove from oven and lightly butter the tops of each loaf.

Yum! My family ate one loaf straight out of the oven!!

You can use the dough to make several other things. I will be sharing some of my ideas a bit later!

We were in Bread Heaven!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-08-29T00:22:00.000-07:00

WOW! The kids start school this week and it feels like summer just started. Where does the time go? I want to slow it down just a bit. Last week was super crazy which explains the meals I carried over from last week to this week.

This Week's Menu
Monday: Steak Fajitas
Tuesday: Thai Shrimp Noodles
Wednesday: French Dips
Thursday: Picnic Night
Friday: Bacon Rice
Saturday: Finger Steaks
Sunday:Bacon, Swiss and Mushroom Meatloaf

Wishing you all a delicious week!!

Linked to Menu Plan Monday

Perfect Pulled Pork

2011-08-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

Pulled pork has become a fave at our house. This recipe is amazing!! I found it over at Kevin & Amanda a really great site with lots of cool things. It takes a bit of preparation and time but OH SO WORTH IT!! It is delicous!!

Perfect Pulled Pork
adapted from Kevin & Amanda

4-7 pound pork roast

Dry Rub
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp chili powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (add 1 Tbsp if you like it spicy)
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp ground pepper
1 tbsp paprika
1/2 cup brown sugar
Mix all ingredients together well and store in an air tight container.

Cover it and set it aside.

Now for the brine – A brine solution gives the meat the extra moisture it needs for a long, slow cooking process so you don’t end up with tough, dried out meat.
Brine Solution
1/2 cup salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 qts cold water
3 tbsp dry rub mix
2 bay leaves
Add salt to cold water and stir very well until all the salt is completely dissolved. Then add the brown sugar and dry rub and stir well to combine.
Rinse the pork shoulder in cold water and place in a 2 gallon ziploc bag (or a container big enough so the shoulder is completely covered in brine solution). Carefully pour in the brine solution.
Add two dried bay leaves.

Refrigerate for at least 8 hours, but no longer than 24 hours.

Then at least 8 hours later…
Preheat oven to 225, remove the pork roast from the brine solution and place in the roasting pan

that is bigger than the shoulder by at least a inch in length and width and at least 3 inches deep. Sprinkle dry rub onto the surface of the roast and massage in such that it adheres to the surface. Coat all sides.

Make sure the fat layer on the roast is facing up before cooking! Place baking pan uncovered in a 225 degree oven on the middle rack. Insert a probe thermometer into the center or thickest part of the shoulder, but not touching the bone. Monitor the temperature throughout cooking (a digital thermometer with an alarm function is the easiest way to do this). Do not remove from the oven until the center of the shoulder reaches 200 degrees. When the shoulder has reached 200 degrees, shut off the oven and let the roast cool for a couple of hours before removing from the oven. If the bottom of the pan is dry (or crusted with dried spices) then cover the pan with foil to retain internal moisture of the meat during the cooling period. When the temperature drops to 170 degrees or slightly lower, remove from oven.

Place on a large, clean work surface such as a cutting board, and remove the large sheet of crusted fat on the top. Pull apart with two forks, it will pull apart very easily.

Mix with your favorite BBQ sauce and serve on toasted buns.

Two of my faves are:

Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce

Sassy Barbecue Sauce

*After the roast is pulled apart I freeze part of it for later meals.

YUM!!

Friday Favorite Finds

2011-08-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

A few of the incredible things I found this week that I want to try on my table!
Thanks everyone!

Valrhona Chocolate Crepe Layer Cake

u Try. it

Food Revolution Mac & Cheese
Finding Joy in My Kitchen

Texas Roadhouse Copycat Cinnamon Butter
Beth's Favorite Recipes

Potato Rounds
Meatless Meals for Meat Eaters

Brownie Goody Bars
An 'A' for Effort

Cake Batter Bars
Lovin' From the Oven

Thai Shrimp with Noodles
Frugal Antics of a Harried Homemaker

Pretzel Bites
Talented Terrace Girls

Happy Friday!!

Gluten and Dairy Free Chunky Potato Soup

2011-08-24T22:54:00.000-07:00

It seems like lately, I have lots of friends who have discovered the need to go gluten free. I have heard the problems they have finding recipes that are good. This recipe comes courtesy of my boss, who is trying a new food program as she calls it. The soup is both gluten and dairy free. I was a bit skeptical of this recipe, but it was delicious!! It is not the typical potato soup but has great flavor and the kids loved it.

Chunky Potato Soup
adapted from The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onions
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups Vegetable broth
5 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 3 large potatoes)
1 yellow or zucchini squash. diced (optional)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup rice milk (or almond milk)
1 teaspoon dried parsley
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook onions, carrots and celery until vegetables are softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly so garlic does not burn.

Add broth, potatoes, squash, bay leaf, salt, thyme and pepper. Bring to a boil. Simmer for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Disgard bay leaf. Add half of the potato mixture to a food processor or blender and process until smooth. Return to saucepan. Stir in the rice milk and parsley. Cook unitl heated through, and serve.

Taco Biscuit Bake

2011-08-23T07:07:00.000-07:00

This was a quick, easy and delicious meal. The kids loved it. Perfect for a quick Mexican craving!

Taco Biscuit Bake
adapted from Taste of Home
1 pound hamburger
2/3 cup water
1 packet taco seasoning
2 tubes (12 oz. each) refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1 (15 oz.) can chili (or 1 1/2 cups leftover chili)
1 cup + shredded cheddar cheese
sour cream
shredded lettuce
diced tomato
salsa
Brown and drain hamburger. Stir in water and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.
Meanwhile, quarter the biscuits and place in the bottom of a greased 9 x13 pan.

Layer with the hamburger mixture, chili and top with the cheese.

Bake uncovered at 375 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and biscuits are golden brown.

Serve with sour cream, shredded lettuce, tomatoes and salsa if desired.

YUM!

Menu Plan Monday

2011-08-22T05:18:00.000-07:00

I am sad that this is the last full week of summer vacation. The kids start school next week. I love having my kids home. We for the most part have a great time together. So I am hoping to make the most of this week. I hope you all are enjoying the remainder of the summer!!

This Week's Menu

Monday: Chicken Alfredo
Tuesday:Beef Stir Fry
Wednesday: Tacos
Thursday: Picnic Night
Friday: Bacon, Swiss and Mushroom Meatloaf
Saturday: Spaghetti
Sunday: French Dip Sandwiches

~Here's to a great week~

Linked to Menu Plan Monday

Smore Cookie Bars

2011-08-19T00:42:00.000-07:00

I've had a huge craving for smores so when I came across this recipe it had to be made.
These little bar are loaded with the flavor combination of a cookie and smores. OH YUM!! They did not last long around our house.

Smore Cookie Bars
1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/3 cup flour
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 regular size Hershey chocolate bars
2 cups mini marshmellows
Preheat oven 350 degrees. Grease an 8 inch square baking pan.
Beat butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; beat well. Gradually add the flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking soda and salt. Mix until well blended. Press half the dough into the prepared pan. Arrange chocolate bars over the dough, breaking as needed to fit. Pour the marshmellows over the top and spread to equal them out over the top. Scatter bits of the remaining dough over the marshmellows.

Bake 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned.

Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Enjoy!!

Cake Decorating..Just a Little Tip

2011-08-18T00:13:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago my daughter and I had the opportunity to attend a cake decorating activity. I just watched, but was fascinated by it all.

You ever wonder how to get a smooth finish on your cake?

Dip your knife in some water. Sprinkle little water drops off your knife to the top of the cake.( Make sure it is just a little water.) Then use your knife to smooth out the frosting.

So simple and works amazingly!!

Kayla was so proud of her cake.

She did such a great job!!

Donut Muffins

2011-08-16T04:30:00.000-07:00

Is it a donut or a muffin?? A question you can answer after tasting these little beauties.

I was a little hesitant to make this recipe, but I am so glad I got over that fear. They were so delicious and easy to make. The only issue I had is that I should of doubled the batch!!

Donut Muffins

Makes about 24 mini muffins
1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 cup butter, melted
3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup flour
Topping:
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease mini muffin tins.
Mix sugar, butter and nutmeg together in a large bowl. Stir in milk, then baking powder and flour until just combined. Fill muffin cups about 1/2 full. Bake until the tops are lightly golden about 15-20 minutes.
While muffins are baking, place 1/4 cup melted butter in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup sugar with the cinnamon. Remove baked muffins from their cups, dip each muffin in melted butter, and then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Let cool and serve!!

YUM!!

Menu Plan Monday and An Idea!

2011-08-15T06:39:00.000-07:00

In just a few short weeks this I will be celebrating a "Blogiversary"!! I have been planning lots of good stuff. During this party week I would like to spotlight different blogs. If you would like to be spotlighted or have something you would like to giveaway to promote your blog please let me know!!

Now on to this week....

This Week's Menu
Monday: BBQ Chicken Pizza
Tuesday: Taco Biscuit Bake
Wednesday:Oriental Chicken Wraps
Thursday: Picnic Night
Friday: Chicken Alfredo
Saturday: Pigs in a Blanket
Sunday: Ultimate BBQ Cheese Burgers

Have a delicious week!!

Linked to: Menu Plan Monday

Friday Favorite Finds

2011-08-12T21:52:00.000-07:00

If you look at my list of things I found that I want to make you will beable to tell it was an extremely stressful week.. for I crave sweet when under stress!! Luckily, I didn't have time to make them because I would of made them all and ate it all my myself. Now that things have calmed down I am excited to make these recipes..one at a time!!

Blueberry White Chocolate Cookies

Baking Serendipity

Spinach Mushroom Rag Soup

Meatless Meals for Meat Eaters

Chewy Sugar Cookies

Healthy Eating for Ordinary People

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies
Frugal Antics of a Harried Homemaker

Dreamy Oreo Brownies
Making Memories One Fun Thing After Another

Caramel and Macadamia Cheesecake
II Dolce Bacio

Cake Batter Rice Krispy Treats
The Cooking Chemist

The winner of the Land O' Lakes giveaway drawn by random number generator is:
Rhonda
Have a great weekend!!

Santa Fe Chicken

2011-08-11T09:05:00.000-07:00

It is time I got back to the Tried it Out Thursday posts. I found this one along with many other delicious things over at An 'A' For Effort. I was hooked at first glance of her picture!! It was delicious!!

Santa Fe Chicken
adapted from An 'A' For Effort

1/2 tablespoon olive oil

1 pound chicken breasts
1 can cream of chicken
1 can diced chilies
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup water
1 can sliced olives, divided
1/2 cup diced onions
Doritos tortilla chips
8 ounces Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 9 x13 pan.Brown chicken in olive oil for 15 minutes. Shred chicken.

Combine soup, sour cream, water, chilies, 1/2 can olives, and 1/4 cup onions. Stir in chicken and half of the cheese. Pour mixture in the pan. Top with remaining olives and onions.

Bake for 25 minutes at 350. Let sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
Serve over crushed tortilla chips.

*I meant to add a can of black beans, but got busy and forgot. So next time!!

If you want to add a bit more spice replace the chilies with jalapenos.

A HUGE HIT!!

Thanks Abby!!

Strawberry Bread

2011-08-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

This is one of those seasonal recipes that are so good you wish you could eat them year round. Maybe that's what makes it so special. You need to use fresh berries to get it to turn out right. This bread has just the right amount of sweetness to it and leaves you wanting more!!

Strawberry Bread

1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 3/4 cup flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups strawberries, fresh and chopped fine (Frozen berries will not work)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Beat butter and sugars together until light and creamy. Beat in the egg one at a time. Then mix in the sour cream and vanilla. Gradually add flour, soda, baking powder and salt. Mix until all ingredients are combined. Fold in the strawberries. Pour into a loaf pan.

Bake at 350 degrees for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

*This can also be made with fresh blueberries.

Before the fresh berries are gone for this season I am going to make a double batch a freeze a loaf so I can still enjoy it when the berry season is done.