Holiday Chex Mix Snack Ideas

Most of the time when you are invited to a holiday gathering, you are asked to bring a dish, a snack-type food or a dessert.  This always makes me very nervous. I always struggle to find out from everyone, their likes and dislikes so that I don’t bring something someone is going to hate. I tend to bounce between the bringing the drinks or something deemed easy to make. I also, kind of believe that my in-laws don't trust my cooking, I may have had a mashed potato faux pas once. Anyway this year, thanks to an idea given to me by General Mills, I decided I would bring Muddy Buddies. A couple quick facts about Chex cereal: Their are eight varieties. Seven are gluten-free. Chex is also free of artificial flavors and colors from artificial sources, and high fructose corn syrup.

  Now, some of you may be unfamiliar with the name but I am fairly certain that a lot of you will know what I’m talking about once I describe it. Muddy Buddies (or “Puppy Chow” as it is called in my area of Illinois) are Chex squares coated in a delicious and perfectly balanced mix of peanut butter and chocolate. All of which, is then dusted with powdered sugar. My favorite part, aside from the flavor, is that the Chex squares stay crisp under all of that melty deliciousness. The recipe is easy to customize too, I’m sure you could use any kind of smooth peanut butter if you prefer, as well as your preferred brand (or even a different flavor!) of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Whichever way you decide to make them, Muddy Buddies are the perfect snack, dessert, and even make a great gift! The recipe for Muddy Buddies is simple, and if you’re not so comfortable in the kitchen, they allow a lot of wiggle room for an “oops”, and they’ll still be yummy. The ingredients and recipe are:

• 9 Cups Rice Chex, Corn Chex, or Chocolate Chex Cereal (or even a mix of Chex types)
• 1 Cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips
• ½ Cup Peanut Butter
• ¼ Cup Butter or Margarine
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla
• 1 ½ Cups Powdered Sugar

1. Into a large bowl, Measure cereal; set aside.
2. In 1-quart microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter on High 1 minute; stir. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag.
3. Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake well until well coated. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator.
   
   
   
   
   

I want to point out that I had two assistants, “buddies” if you will, and this recipe did not end with them being muddy at all! This Muddy Buddies recipe is able to be gluten free, thanks to the main ingredient being such, just be sure to check the labels of each ingredient of your choice so that you can be sure the recipe stays that way. I want to quickly thank General Mills for not only sending me the ingredients and the supplies to make the recipe, but also for giving me inspiration for a super quick “I appreciate you” gift before the holidays. My younger brother and sister-in-law had a stressful week and they absolutely loved receiving the adorably packaged Muddy Buddies.

THANKS AGAIN GENERAL MILLS! Merry Christmas!

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Get Ready to Go Banana's

Cheerios has a big announcement and you're sure to go bananas over it! Banana Nut Cheerios is back on store shelves for a limited time and you'll definitely want to get your hands on it. You have all of the flavors reminiscent of banana nut bread like whole grain oats, banana puree, and real cinnamon all in a bowl. The deliciousness of this cereal goes beyond the bowl though, and Cheerios has partnered with a few creative bloggers to show you just how versatile and inspirational the newest O can be. I'm going to share my favorite recipe with you because you can never have too many reasons to buy Cheerios.

I chose to make Banana Nut Cheerios White Chocolate Snack Mix, I chose this recipe because I wanted to make something that my kids could takes to school for snack time and maybe even share with their friends. Plus, this may have also allowed me to take some to work as a snack as well. I found the mix super easy to make, and the ingredients were really easy to find as well so it was the best choice.

Banana Nut Cheerios White Chocolate Popcorn Snack Mix

Serves 16

Ingredients:

• 4 cups Banana Nut Cheerios
• 4 cups plain popped popcorn
• 1 cup banana chips
• 1 12-ounce bag of white chocolate chips, 1/2 cup reserved
• 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
• 2 Tbsp. sliced almonds

*Line a large baking sheet with wax paper or a silicone baking sheet. In a large bowl, combine the Banana Nut Cheerios, popcorn, and banana chips ( I actually crushed my banana chips just a little bit to make them more incorporated in the snack mix)

*Set aside 1/2 cup of the white chocolate chips, and place the rest in a small bowl with the almond butter. Set the bowl over a pot of simmering water and stir until melted and smooth. (you can melt these ingredients in the microwave, just stir every 15-30 seconds until smooth)

*Pour the white chocolate and almond butter mixture over the cereal mixture, and toss with a spatula until evenly coated. Spread the coated cereal mixture on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and allow to cool slightly.

*While it is cooling, melt the remaining 1/2 cup white chocolate chips in a bowl over a simmering pot of water (could also do this in the microwave), then drizzle over the cereal mixture on the sheet, You can transfer the chocolate to a plastic bag and cut off the very tip to make it easier to do a thin drizzle.

*Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top, tapping down the pan or pressing them in as needed so they stick to the chocolate.

*Allow to cool and harden for several hours at room temperature before breaking into pieces and storing in an airtight container.

Its best to grab these Banana Nut Cheerios before they slip out of your grip, available now through January.

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Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerios

Chocolate and peanut butter, agreeably the most divine flavor duo. While adding chocolate or peanut butter will make almost anything better, nothing compares to when the two flavors are together. This delicious combination is now available from Cheerios!

Delicious cocoa and real peanut butter make up every spoonful of flavorful Os in the newest wholesome Cheerios cereal option. We regularly receive Cheerios samples, so that we can give you the latest information on the newest flavors and news, the box of Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerios we recently received has been a fun and delicious change to our regular Cheerios routine. The kids and I have even discussed buying another box soon so that we can try making some marshmallow bars with our new favorite cereal. The first ingredient is whole grain oats and they contain no artificial flavors or colors from artificial sources. As delicious as it is, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerios are not safe for those with peanut-related allergies and sensitivities. The peanut butter that is used to make Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerios is added at a separate facility to avoid any cross contamination with any other variety of Cheerios. There are other Cheerios varieties that are safe for those with peanut allergies; Original Cheerios, Multi-Grain Cheerios, Pumpkin Spice Cheerios, Chocolate Cheerios, and Very Berry Cheerios.

Thank you Cheerios for the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerios, the kids and I cant wait for to go grab another box! The Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerios are both indulgent and guilt-free, making it the perfect breakfast for the whole family. Be sure to grab yourself some of the latest and greatest Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheerios!

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Pumpkin Season is Perfect For Lattes

If there is one thing I love about fall it is the food, I know it is very cliché but I love all things pumpkin, and it is just so hard to find it out of season. If all of the pumpkin food products were available all year round, I would definitely eat and drink pumpkin spice flavored food all year! Cheerios had caught on to this trend and introduced Pumpkin Spice Cheerios.

Well luckily for us, Cheerios is once again going to be on grocers' shelves. For a limited time, you can enjoy Cheerios made with whole grain oats, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Most people would eat Cheerios from a bowl because that's how they're meant to be eaten, but my family and I ate them by the handful. I believe there was only one bowl made from the entire box. The box went with us on car rides, to sports practices, and most recently, in snack baggies to school. They were just too delicious to wait for breakfast, or to wait and get the bowl, get the milk, and then the spoon... who has time for that!? General Mills is always kind enough to let us review their cereals, and they were thoughtful enough to send a fun recipe for Pumpkin Spice Cheerios Lattes, and now I'm sharing with you for your enjoyment!

Pumpkin Spice Cheerios Lattes

• 2 cups milk
• 3Tbs packed brown sugar
• 1Tbs canned pumpkin ( NOT Pumpkin Pie Mix)
• 1/4tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 3 cups Pumpkin Spice Cheerios cereal
• 1/2 cup hot brewed espresso coffee
• whipped cream, cinnamon stick, and pumpkin pie spice, if desired

1. In 1-quart saucepan, stir milk, brown sugar, pumpkin, and pumpkin spice; heat to boiling over medium heat. Measure cereal into medium bowl. Pour mixture over cereal; let stand 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Place fine mesh strainer over same saucepan. Pour cereal mixture into strainer, press cereal with back of spoon to get as much milk strained out as possible. Discard cereal. Return milk to heat to keep warm.
3. Meanwhile, pour hot espresso into 2 latte glasses. Divide between glasses. Top with remaining ingredients.

*Makes 2 servings*

TIPS: try strong coffee in place of espresso. Drizzle top of latte with salted caramel sauce to compliment the pumpkin spice flavor.

I'm not someone who can tolerate strong coffee so I may have to try this recipe with regular coffee, I'm sure it will be delicious either way. However, to make the recipe, the Pumpkin Spice Cheerios have to last long enough to make it. Which, I just don't see happening. A huge thank you to General Mills for the Pumpkin Spice Cheerios, my family is very thankful! We will be purchasing more as soon as possible!

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Keystone Meats and National Canned Food Month

Did you know that February is National Canned Food month? I'm sure some of us have went the entire month without knowing about it, well, the month is used to educate people about food canning, the ways it is beneficial, foods you are able to can, and how to can those foods. It is also used to teach people about how canned foods allow you to prepare for certain happenings, how long canned foods remain good, and how canned foods can be used to make your cooking easier and faster. Now, even thought the months is over, it isn't too late to educate yourself on the procedures, especially if it is something you think you may be interested in. Keystone Meats is a company that proudly supports National Canned Food Month and they have quite the story behind them.

The standout trait of Keystone Brand Meats is the fact that their company has been owned and operated by four generations of the Dorley family. The company was established in 1964 by Raymond L. Dorley and his son Raymond B. Dorley, and the business originally both raised and processed beef on the family farm to supply restaurants and grocery stores throughout Ohio and Indiana. Eventually, in 1980, the whole entire operation was upgraded to U.S.D.A. standards and a new beef processing facility as well as a meat cannery were built by third generation owner/operator Dave Dorley. Today, Dave's son Pete Dorley serves as President of the company. As their company has grown and expanded throughout the United States, it is easy to think they would have changed all of their original beliefs, however, the company still sources their beef from local farms and they still process for local customers, just like always. Recently, they have expanded their cannery, built a soup base facility, and even added several items to their product line in response to customer requests. So while the company has indeed grown and diversified, their core commitment to serve their customers with the highest quality all natural meats, has remained unchanged.

I was happy to receive products from Keystone for review, I chose their canned chicken since canned chicken is a staple in our house (used weekly), and I wanted to see if I noticed a difference in the ingredients and the taste. Now, I am not actually at home to check the label but I distinctly remember the number of ingredients on my usual can being 5. 5 total ingredients for canned chicken. I'd ask you to guess how many were in the Keystone can, but the photo at the beginning of the post gives it away. There are only two ingredients in each can of canned meat. The meat of choice, and sea salt. That alone should stand as a testament to the company and their commitment to a quality product.

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Recipe of the Week: Cranberry Pistachi-O's Holiday Snack Mix

While every one else is making their "New Year, New Me" resolutions, General Mills fans are rejoicing in the fact that they are already receiving the best from their cereal. General Mills goes above and beyond in making sure that their cereal is great for everyone involved, and its a product that you can be sure to feel proud about eating. For example, did you know that most Americans don't eat enough whole grains? They typically get less than one serving, which is a little disturbing considering dietary guidelines recommend 3 or more a day. Those who do eat it regularly, have a decreased risk for many chronic diseases. Luckily for you, Whole Grain can be found as the first ingredient in all of General Mills cereal. Also, 90% of their cereal is free of artificial flavors and colors from artificial sources.

 

This holiday season, my family was lucky enough to receive a wonderful box full of goodies from General Mills. The box contained a number of products needed to make a fun and delicious snack mix perfect for the holidays. It's not uncommon for my family to eat cereal outside of breakfast, so we were more than excited to work together to make this snack mix. Below, I have included the recipe (which has a nut-free version as well!). The holidays may be over but with General Mills and Cheerios, there is always a time to celebrate good times with family!

~Cranberry Pistachi-O's Holiday Snack Mix~

Ingredients

• Non-Stick Cooking Spray
• 1/4 cup canola or sunflower oil
• 3/4 cup mild honey
• 1/2 cup vanilla Greek Yogurt
• 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
• 12 cups Honey Nut Cheerios (or original Cheerios for a nut-free version)
• 1 cup shelled pistachios (or pepitas for a nut-free version)
• 2 cups vanilla yogurt covered pretzels
• 1 cup dried cranberries

Preheat oven to 250*F. Lightly spritz a half sheet pan with non-stick cooking spray.

In a microwave safe bowl, combine the oil, honey, vanilla Greek yogurt, pure vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Microwave for 45 seconds, or just until you can whisk until smooth and evenly covered. If you are making the nutty version, add the Honey Nut Cheerios to a large mixing bowl. If making a nut-free version, add the Original Cheerios and the pepitas to a large mixing bowl. Pour the liquids over the cereal and toss gently to evenly coat the cereal. Spread the mixture evenly in a single layer on the prepared half sheet pan.

Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring well every 15 minutes, or until the Cheerios are golden brown, dry to the touch, and crunchy. Remove the pan from the oven. Let the mixture cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a mixing bowl or storage container and gently stirring in the pistachios (if making the nutty version), yogurt covered pretzels, and dried cranberries. Let cool completely before covering. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

*Special thank you to General Mills for our box of goodies that allowed us to make this delicious treat!!!*

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Take Time to Celebrate with General Mills

Take time out your busy schedule to celebrate loved ones, like dad for example! In celebration of Father's Day, General Mills sent us a few cereal samples and other goodies to help us get the celebration underway. Unfortunately my husbands schedule was swamped and we had to postpone our celebration until this last weekend. Although our celebration was put off for a while, we were still able to have a fun and delicious celebration thanks to General Mills.

General Mills is a household brand and, though you may not realize it, they stretch far beyond just cereal. They work hard to give you the best products all around, including ones like fruit, ice cream, pasta, pizza, soups, vegetables, and snacks. Lately, they've been at work to bring you the absolute best cereal, they have been removing artificial flavors and artificial colors, and now more than 80% of their cereals are free from such ingredients. For our -After- Father's Day Celebration, General Mills was kind enough to offer up some recipes that featured some of our favorite cereals. It didn't take me long to figure out that their S'mores pizza was meant for our family. My favorite cereal happens to be Golden Grahams, the very cereal in the recipe as both the crust and a topping. Along with that, our family is no stranger to a bonfire, but temperatures (even after sundown) have kept us indoors lately. Passing up an opportunity for a s'more wasn't an option, and who can say no to pizza?! 

 

Here's a picture of my outcome, and the recipe so you can enjoy it for yourself.

Golden Grahams S'mores Pizza Squares

5 1/2 cups Golden Grahams cereal

1/3 cup butter, melted

1/3 cup creamy almond butter

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

1 egg white

1 3/4 cups milk chocolate chips

2 cups mini marshmallows

2 bars (1.55oz each) milk chocolate candy, broken into pieces

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 375. Line 15x10x1-inch baking pan with cooking parchment paper, folding edges if necessary.
2. Using food processor, finely crush 5 cups of the cereal. In a medium bowl, mix melted butter, almond butter, brown sugar, and egg white until well blended. Stir in crushed cereal until mixed well. Pour cereal mixture in pan; spread evenly, and press firmly against bottom of pan. Bake 11 minutes.
3. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 cups of the chocolate chips, and return to oven 1 minute. Remove from oven, and carefully spread melted chocolate chips on top of crust. Top with marshmallows, and return to oven for 2 to 3 minutes or until marshmallows begin to soften (I let mine get a little golden before I removed them). Remove from oven, and top with remaining 1/2 cup of cereal. Let cool for 5 minutes, and top with chocolate candy bar pieces.
4. In a small microwavable bowl, microwave remaining 1/4 cup milk chocolate chips, uncovered on high 45 to 55 seconds, stirring until smooth, drizzle melted chocolate on top. using a pizza cutter sprayed with cooking spray, cut 5 rows by three rows.

Makes 15 servings, Prep Time 20 mins, Start to Finish 45 mins, enjoy warm or room temperature. I also wouldn't store past 24 hours, we ate some the next day and it wasn't the same.

Whether its simply filling a bowl with your favorite cereal and sitting around the table, or planning a special pizza night and hanging out while cooking, General Mills helps you celebrate the important people in life, by ensuring you're giving them the very best products you can
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A Cold Creek Christmas by RaeAnne Thayne

I received this sample in the hopes I would share my honest opinions. No compensation



Few things are better than curling up on a snowy wintry night with a good book and cup of hot chocolate.  For me this year it will be A Cold Creek Christmas Story by RaeAnne Thayne

More about A Cold Creek Christmas:
Celeste Nichols has always preferred to keep to herself in her hometown of Pine Gulch, Idaho…until she becomes an instant celebrity! When one of her children's stories becomes a major success, she's suddenly the talk of the town. Celeste should be gloriously happy…but something, someone, special is still missing from her life. Could the return of her childhood crush be the answer?

Flynn Delaney has moved back home for his daughter's sake. Yet all the millionaire's resources can't help the little girl heal from the tragic loss of her mother. Shy librarian Celeste and her stories do hold some indefinable magic, though. Flynn came home looking for support—can he find that, and true love, in the one who got away?


Wonder what the best and most luxurious Hot Chocolate to serve with A Cold Creek Christmas takes:
4 cups of milk (whole is best)
8 ounces of high-quality chocolate … I like Guittard semisweet chips. White chocolate works too, for a different taste.
3 teaspoons of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (pure, not imitation)
1/8 teaspoon salt

Finely chop the chocolate. Even if using chocolate chips, the smaller the pieces, the better it will dissolve in liquid. On low heat in a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a low boil, whisking occasionally to keep from scorching. Add the vanilla, powdered sugar, salt and chocolate and whisk vigorously until the chocolate has melted. Heat for another 4 minutes, constantly stirring. Serve with a dollop of real whipped cream.

You can add lots of things to this recipe: Mint, vanilla bean, cinnamon stick. Whatever your preference. Just add herbs or spices to the milk while simmering. After it boils, remove from heat and let the milk steep for 10 minutes then strain off your add-ins and return to simmer before adding the chocolate and other ingredients.

Now all I need is a snow at home to enjoy!

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An Amish Noel by Patricia Davids

I received this sample in the hopes I would share my honest opinions. No compensation.

 To celebrate her newest book, An Amish Noel, Patricia Davids has taken time to share one of her favorite recipes.

Merry Christmas from me, Patricia Davids. If you love pecans the way I do, you'll want to enjoy this delicious holiday recipe all year round. They are called Kentucky Pecan Bars and they are YUM. Pair them with a cup of hot peppermint cocoa and you'll have a real treat to savor while you enjoy my latest book, An Amish Noel.

Ingredients

Crust:
Nonstick cooking spray
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon fine salt
12 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small dice
3 to 4 tablespoons ice water

Filling:
1 2/3 cups pecans
6 ounces white chocolate, chopped
1 cup honey
2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons bourbon
Zest of 1 orange
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:
For the crust: Adjust the oven rack to the bottom position and preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.In a food processor, pulse together the flour, sugar, salt and butter until the butter is pea-sized. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough begins to pull from the sides of the bowl. Transfer the dough to a floured surface, gather together and pat into a rectangle. Roll the dough into a 1/8-inch-thick rectangle that measures about 13 by 15 inches. Trim the rough edges and ease the dough into the prepared pan, pressing it onto the bottom and about halfway up the sides (trim the dough more on the sides as needed). Prick the dough a couple times with a fork. Cover with aluminum foil and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake until the dough starts to set up, about 15 minutes. Remove the weights and foil and continue to bake until the crust is just golden, about 5 minutes more. Let it cool completely.

For the filling: Meanwhile, lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees F and spread the pecans out on a baking sheet. Bake until toasted and lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool and then coarsely chop.Bring a couple of inches of water to a simmer in a small saucepan. Put the white chocolate in a heat-safe bowl that sits comfortably in the saucepan without touching the water. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Spread it evenly on the crust and let it set up. Beat the honey and brown sugar with an electric mixer until smooth. Beat in the eggs. Pour in the melted butter and continue to beat. Add the flour, bourbon, orange zest and vanilla. Sprinkle the pecans over the white chocolate and pour in the honey mixture.

Bake until the top of the filling is golden brown and the center sets up, 30 to 40 minutes. Cover and put in the refrigerator until cool. When ready to serve, cut into 36 even bars.
**Recipe courtesy of Damaris Phillips, From The Food Network website.

While you are enjoying your pecan bars grab a copy of An Amish Noel and enjoy!

Luke Bowman's homecoming is turning Emma Swartzentruber's carefully ordered world upside down. Gone is her rebellious girlhood crush, and in his place is a handsome man who seems committed to serving the community. Luke's even agreed to work for Emma's ill father, whose last wish is to see his daughter wedded to a stable, loving man.

But Luke—a man who flirted with the outside world with disastrous consequences—is hardly marriage material for a good Amish woman. Yet this Christmas, when her family is flung into crisis, Emma finds that he may just be the one to capture her heart for good.

Enjoy and let me know what you think of the book.

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Her Mistletoe Cowboy by Marie Ferrarella

I received this sample in the hopes I would share my honest opinions.   No compensation

It is that time of the year where we are all rushing around trying to get ready for the holiday. This year why not take time to sit back and enjoy a few moments for yourself and read a book, like Her Mistletoe Cowboy by Marie Ferrarella.

Kimberly Lee isn't sure what she'll find when she comes to Forever, Texas, to do a story on a groundbreaking program that could put this small town on the map. It certainly isn't the warm, friendly community that makes the roving reporter feel instantly at home. Or the accident that lays her up at Garrett White Eagle's ranch, where the blue-eyed rancher awakens feelings she long ago gave up.

Giving people hope again is the goal of the healing ranch Garrett started with his brother. And the lovely, hardworking writer is no exception. Doesn't Kim realize how much good they can do—together? Her future is here with him if she's willing to trust in a love that could fulfill the promise of forever.
 
Marie was kind enough to take a few minutes and share with us her Marzipan Cake recipe and share why "I think Christmas and everyone I know thinks of my mint chip brownies and my marzipan bundt cake. The brownies are more or less a standard recipe, except doubled (so the brownies are nice and thick) and add in lots of mint chips.  Here’s the marzipan, enjoy".

Marzipan Cake

INGREDIENTS:
1 (18.25 ounce) package moist white (or yellow) cake mix
1 (5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
¾ cup of vegetable oil
¾ cup of Amaretto
4 eggs
½ cup of almond slivers
1 tube of almond paste (marzipan)

DIRECTIONS:
1.         Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 10 inch bundt pan with Pam (with flour)

2.         Cut almond paste into approximately 14 slices, then put into blender (or something that resembles coffee bean grinder). Object is to break up the slices into tiny pieces to distribute the flavor throughout the cake.

3.         In medium bowl combine all the above ingredients then beat with an electric mixer for 5 minutes.

4.         Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes (insert knife in center, cake is done when knife comes out clean) Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then invert and remove cake from pan (with luck!). Let cake cool completely, then drizzle with powder sugar.

5.         Enjoy with a nice warm cup of coffee and a copy of Her Mistletoe Cowboy
 
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Everything You Need For A Cold Evening At Home Thanks To Liz Talley & Kimberly Van Meter

I received this sample in the hopes I would share my honest opinions, no compensation.

Ever wondered what would happen if you found yourself in the wrong bed but with the right guy?  If so A Wrong Bed Christmas is for you.

Ignited by Kimberly Van Meter
What do you do when a sexy, naked fireman gets into your bed? If you're Alexis Matheson, you freak out. But now she's snowed in with Layton Davis, and suddenly Alexis's best intentions to behave seem to have disappeared up the chimney. Because a hot 'n' naughty firefighter in her bed might be the best Christmas surprise ever…

Where There's Smoke by Liz Talley
Emma Rose Brent is sure she's dreaming when Erik Matheson, her bestie's überhot olde brother—who she's been crushing on for years—mistakenly slips into her bed, all gloriously naked. But Emma must have been a very good girl this year, because she's been given the best gift of all: the chance to be really, really bad…

I asked both Kimberly and Liz to share a holiday recipe with us and I think you will agree these ladies know their way around the kitchen.

Liz Tally say that if she were planning the perfect meal for being stranded with a sexy firefighter in the middle of Colorado, I’d go with something that would give me more energy for the night ahead ;) Here’s the perfect rustic yet filling dish would appeal to any red-blooded American man (who wasn’t a vegetarian):

Seduce Me Beef Stew*

1 lb of lean good quality stew meat
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tsp oil
2 onions (sliced into thin rings)
2 cups sliced mushrooms
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp tomato paste
2 cups of beef broth
3 cups sliced carrots
2 medium potatoes, sliced
1 cup green beans
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp cold water

1. Coat beef with flour, shaking off excess. In a large pot or dutch oven, heat oil. Add beef and cook about 5-7 minutes until slightly browned. Remove beef to a separate plate.
2. Add onions and mushrooms to the pot; saute for 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and saute for a minute
or so. Return beef to the pot and stir in tomato paste. Next add broth and add enough water to
cover. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for an hour.
3. Add carrots, potatoes and green beans. Cover partially and cook for 15-20 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, mix water and cornstarch. Stir into stew and increase heat to a boil. Turn off and
let cool slightly. Serve with cornbread or crusty French bread.

Then to finish it off with Kimberly's crockpot hot chocolate:
All you need is
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
(1) 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
6 cups milk
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
2 cups of chocolate chips (milk chocolate OR semi-sweet)

Then combine everything into a crock pot, turn on low for two hours, stir and serve with the toppings of your choice.

 Let me know it you try either dish and what your family thinks of them.

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In Time For The Holidays Maisey Yates Shares Her Cherry Pie Recipe

I received this sample in the hopes I would share my honest opinions.  No compensation.

 To celebrate both the upcoming holidays and the release of her newest title A Christmas Vow of Seduction, Maisey Yates has shared her recipe for famous Cherry Pie.

First what you want to know about A Christmas Vow of Seduction:

With one band of gold Prince Andres of Petras can erase his past—albeit pleasurable—sins. But his prospective bride is untamable Princess Zara, so the playboy prince must seduce her into compliance and crown her by Christmas! 

The wayward princess of Tirimia has spent years hiding her untouched heart, and her convenient husband-to-be seems determined to keep it that way. Yet his caresses promise a sensual awakening that's impossible to resist. But once Zara's given him her hand and her body, it won't be long before he has her heart.

 Now what Maisey has to say about her Cherry Pie:

This recipe is special to me for two reasons. First of all, this pie crust is an old family recipe. If done right, it is the best pie crust in the world. My grandma used to make cherry pie with it, and my mom has used it to make every kind of pie you there is.

Pie is something that feels very HOLIDAY to me, no matter what you put in it. But I like blackberry pie, and winter is the perfect time to rummage around the freezer and get out the berries you might have frozen from summer. (Or not. I didn’t pick any this year! But it’s a nice idea!)

The ingredients to the crust are simple, but following the steps is what gets you flaky crust and not chewy crust.

Double 9’ Crust — 

2 Cups Flour
1 Cup Shortening
1/2 tsp salt
Mix (press with fork) together until crumbly
 

Step 2 — (1/2 cup water, additional 1/4 cup flour)
In a jar mix 1/2 cup COLD water with a 1/4 cup flour, blend well. 
Add to flour mixture. Mix gently until blended well. Handle as little as possible. Separate pastry
into two balls.

Heat oven to 425°F. With floured rolling pin, roll one round into round 2 inches larger than upside-down 9-inch glass pie plate. Fold pastry into fourths; place in pie plate. Unfold and ease into plate, pressing firmly against bottom and side.

Filling —
4-6 Cups Blackberries
3/4 Cup sugar (I like a little tartness, so depending on the berries, I sometimes put less. If the
berries were really firm you might need more)
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1 Tbsp butter

In a large bowl, mix sugar, flour, cinnamon. Add berries and mix until coated (I like to use my hands). Spoon filling into pie pan, dot with butter. Cover with top pastry. Cut slits in the top, seal
and flute. Cover the edges with tin foil to prevent excessive browning.

Bake 35 to 45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and juice begins to bubble through slits in crust, removing foil for last 15 minutes of baking. Cool on cooling rack at least 2 hours. (Or cut into it and take your chances…that’s what I do!)

Now I want to turn off the computer and run to the grocery store and get everything to make this pie.  Thanks for taking the time to share this with us Maisey!

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MasterChef Junior Season 4 Giveaway

I received this sample in the hopes I would share my honest opinions.  No compensation.

I was not raised in a home where my Mother did a lot of cooking, in fact she was at the office and to this day she and I joke that I got all of my kitchen skills from her. Trust me that is not a good thing.  So when I had our daughter I vowed to be better about her seeing me in the kitchen.   I have gone as far as taking classes so that I am not always making the same dishes over and over.   

This has created an interest in her not only to want to help in the kitchen but it also increases her willingness to try new foods since she is the one who made them.  With that being said we love to watch MasterChef Junior and have even tried a few of the challenges like the cupcake one in the YouTube clip above so knowing the 4th season is about to start on Friday nights (on Fox) we are setting the DVR.

If you want to bring the experience of MasterChef home to your child their are two kits that have been inspired by the show and they are: 

 

The Cooking Essentials Set which includes an apron, cutting board, mixing bowl, measuring cups, measuring spoons, spatula, spook, tongs (my daughter's favorite) and recipe cards that are easy for any beginner shelf to follow.

Plus The Baking Kitchen Set which includes a mixing bowl, liquid measuring cup, rolling pin, spatula, 4 silicone banking cups, 4 dusting guards and additional recipe cards.

We have put both kits to the test and I love that not only are the recipes kid friendly but the tools are fun colors to encourage fun in the kitchen.  You will also find a premade shopping list to help keep kids on track when you gather your ingredients.

Both kits are available only at Walmart and would make a great gift for any young cooks in your home.

 Giveaway will end at 8pm on Sunday, November 29th

 Winner chosen by Random.org
Winners responsible for supplying shipping info via email.
U.S. entries only

Want to win?

What have you done to increase your kids interest in the kitchen

What are some dishes your child can make

What do you think about getting kids involved hands on in the kitchen

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**Please note I can not promise a prechristmas prize delivery**

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Bon Appetit and a Book - Blog Addison Fox

I received this sample in the hopes I would share my honest opinions.

 Summer is a busy time for me but as fall and winter approached I find myself spending more time at home and able to enjoy a few guilty pleasures such as picking up a few Harlequin's.  At the top of my list are three new releases, The Professional but Addison Fox, High Country Hideout by Elle James and Christmas Undercover by Hope White.  Over the next few days I am going to share a little bit about each title and author, starting with Addison Fox.

Addison's newest release, The Professional introduces us to Violet Richardson who doesn’t believe a happy-ever-after is in her, Despite her job as a wedding planner, future. And when she’s kidnapped by a killer, she’s surprised that rescue comes in the form of her tempting yet irritating neighbor, Max Baldwin. Trying to forget his dark past, Max never meant to take on his attractive neighbor’s troubles. But now the bickering pair must outrun a thug who’s determined to get his hands on mysterious jewels he thinks are in Violet’s possession. As they race for their lives through Dallas’s summer heat, Max and Violet may finally open their eyes to the burning passion they share.

 I was lucky enough to get Addison to share a few ideas and tips from her kitchen.

Thanks so much for having me today on the blog! I love talking books and I love talking food so I figure today’s sort of my idea of blog heaven.

So a few things to know about me. I love to eat. You’ve got a serious foodie here and there’s very little I won’t try or don’t enjoy. I also think that food is a wonderful way to spend time. There’s an intimacy that builds when you eat with someone and whether it’s family or old friends or the process of getting to know someone new, food has a wonderful ability to bring us together.

I think that’s why romance writers blend food scenes so often into their books. When you’re writing a story about two people and the increasing intimacy between them, time spent getting to know each over a meal is an essential way to do that.

Now, while I will admit to being somewhat better at actually eating my food than cooking it, I do have a few dishes that are my specialty. I often default to what I call “Oven Fried Chicken” as a place to start. It’s pretty much universally enjoyed and it’s easy to make before everyone arrives and then pull out of the oven to enjoy with a few quick sides. You can easily manage hostess duties and cooking duties and make it look effortless!

OVEN FRIED CHICKEN

 
[One quick note - chicken thighs actually work best with the recipe, either bone in or deboned. Breasts work well, too, but if you use them you definitely want to pound them a bit and/or do them as chicken strips to let them get juicy all the way through while they cook.]

-1-3 pounds of chicken pending party size (estimate about a pound to every 3 people)
-Bread crumbs

- Mayo  

-Cooking spray for cookie sheet

1 - Clean the chicken of any extra fat and coat in a layer of mayo, then a layer of breadcrumbs. Make sure the pieces are well-coated for cooking (and for yummy deliciousness while eating)

2 – After coating with the mayo and breadcrumbs, place close together on a greased cookie sheet

3 – Bake at 350 degrees for about 20-25 minutes, then turn each piece, cooking another 20-25 minutes. 

[Note – if you’re making bone-in pieces, cooking time is more 25-30 minutes per side. If it’s boneless, 20-25 should do it.]

And there you have it. Easy prep, easy clean up and a delicious meal everyone will love. These also make outstanding leftovers so don’t hesitate to make a little extra and enjoy for a few more days or as pieces to cut up on salads.

While I haven’t incorporated Oven Fried Chicken into any of my books yet, I definitely think this is the sort of first meal my heroine, Violet, would cook for my hero, Max. Max is a big man– salt of the earth and ex-military – and he’s the sort to enjoy home cooking and hearty sides inequal measure. Their adventures take center stage in my October release, THE PROFESSIONAL, which is out now.

Thanks so much for joining me today!
XO,
Addison 

 

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Wholly Wholesome Celebrates National Peach Month

I received this sample in the hopes I would share my honest opinions

Companies that start out as family businesses seem to keep their original hopes intact as they grow and Wholly Wholesome is one of those companies. Setting out to give consumers natural products with great taste that serve the ingredient standards of the most discerning natural food devotees. They offer many dessert products that are made with truly natural and organic ingredients and will taste homemade such as pie crusts, cakes, waffles, cookies, and pies.

Thanks to Wholly Wholesome, I now know that August is National Peach Month and I decided to use this opportunity to grab two of their 9" Organic Traditional Pie Shells and try my hand at making a peach pie... which hasn't happened since Home Ec. in high school. Now, my recipes from high school have not stood the test of time so I was in need of one. Luckily for me, the Wholly Wholesome website has plenty of ideas for you to use and I decided to go with the "Fruit Jewel Pie" recipe. The recipe is as follows:

*and remember I used only peaches for the fruit option but you can use whatever you decide*

Fruit Jewel Pie

Ingredients:

9" Wholly Wholesome Graham Cracker Pie Crust

• 1/8 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp. cornstarch
• 2/3 cup orange juice
• 1/3 cup cold water
• 5 cups of fruit of your choice
• 1/2 cup of unrefined & unbleached sugar
• 1 cup of dairy free whip topping

Directions:

1. In a large pot mix together sugar, salt, cornstarch, water and orange juice.
2. Cook on medium beat until glaze thickens and boils.
3. Continue to boil for 1 minute and stir continuously.
4. Remove glaze from heat and let cool.
5. Fold into cooled glaze, 5 cups of the fruit of your choice. We recommend: 2 cups of blueberries, 2 cups of strawberries, 1 cup of sliced bananas (soak in lemon juice and drain before using).
6. Pour into Wholly Wholesome pie crust.
7. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving.
8. Can be served for up to 2 days. Keep refrigerated.

 Along with National Peach Month, Wholly Wholesome is celebrating their Peachy Keen Sweet Sixteen and they are hosting a contest where you have the opportunity to win one year of Wholly Wholesome product as well as a "Smart Tools For Baking" Prize. ( a complete three-piece set that includes a tablet, a Bluetooth speaker stand, and a screen shield) All you have to do is go to WhollyWholesome.com, and answer a simple question to enter. You can re-enter daily and they have opportunities to gain additional entries as well. Wholly Wholesome gives us the chance to get great quality products without feeling guilty about them.

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Here Is Your Chance To Share Your Favorite Recipes on My Springfield Mommy

(the above recipe card is available from Hallmark)

The response to the readers sharing their Disney stories has been phenomenal.  So I am extending the opportunity for readers to contribute. If you would are interested please read the following guidelines and feel free to contact me:

Details:

•  Recipe must be original
• Can be for any dish including both food and drink  
• Must be able to submit the recipe via email 
• Must be able to provide digital photos of the process
• You may submit more than one dish
• Must be able to have photos and recipe to me five days before posting
• Willing to offer a few words as to why this dish is special to you 

To be considered:

• Email me at MySpringfieldMommy@gmail.com
• Title the subject Recipe 
• In the email tell me what dish or dink you would like to contribute
• I will respond within 72 hours.

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Have You Cooked With Seasoned Rice Vinegar

 

**I received this sample in the hopes that I would share my honest opinion of this product, no compensation was received. Review by Michelle**

OK, so it's time for me to expand my horizons. I am officially stepped out of my comfort zone with Nakano seasoned rice vinegar.

Nakano rice vinegar is the new alternative. Now let me clarify, there is rice vinegar and seasoned rice vinegar. Nakano Rice vinegar is unsweetened with no sodium and is to be used in a variety of recipes. Nakano seasoned rice vinegars are lightly sweetened and lightly salted to be used in recipes or as a splash on condiment.

NAKANO Natural Rice vinegar can be used as an alternative to wine, cider or distilled vinegar. Also has

• no sodium
• no sugar
• zero calories
• no fat
• gluten free

NAKANO seasoned rice vinegar has a sweet, light flavor that dresses up any dish. Simply splash it on everything to salads to pasta to meant and vegetables. It is also:

• all natural
• low calorie
• no fat
• gluten free
• no preservatives
• 50% less sodium than the competition

You can use it on pasta, grilled chicken,vegetables, baked potatoes instead of sour cream, rice, green beans. They also come in some distinctive flavors, roasted garlic, basil & oregano, red pepper, pesto, balsamic blend and Italian herb.


These all sound amazing especially trying it on the baked potato.  I am all about trying new things. This is a great way to change and start a new eating  life style. I can't wait to try my family on these.
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Norm's Farms Elderberry Jam Giveaway

**I received this sample in the hopes that I would share my honest opinion of this product, no compensation was received. Review by Michelle**

Norm’s Farms is dedicated to growing elderberries using sustainable farming practices. We believe it is the best way to produce all-natural, healthy and absolutely delicious elderberries. Their story begins with Norman Lenhardt, who had a vision for the world. He wanted to protect and preserve America’s farm lands while also ensuring that we would have enough food to feed the world. When Norm was not advocating for farm preservation, city planning, or wildlife protection, he spent his time on his 170-acre farm. Located in the Missouri river bottom of Hartsburg, MO, Norm’s Farm boasts some of the richest soil in the world.

I felt I need to give you a little more information before I went directly onto discussing these amazing Jams, Jellies, & Preserves. I tried the elderberry Jelly on just some plain toast and of course I only got one bite because they all wanted to try it and well we went through an entire loaf of bread.

Here is a description of the Norm's Farms Elderberry Jams, Jelly's and Preserves I received.

Blueberry Elderberry Preserves:

Norm’s Farms found the tastiest North Carolina grown blueberries to feature in our new line of Preserves. Loaded with lots of whole blueberries and oh-so-good-for-you elderberries, these preserves are the perfect treat. And at only 8 grams of sugar per serving (the same as most fruit spreads), this is a treat you can afford!

Elderberry Jelly:
Our all natural Elderberry Jelly is made with pure elderberry juice, lightly sweetened with pure cane sugar, and then finished with a touch of lemon juice. This is a brighter, lighter version of our best-selling Elderberry Jam.

Elderberry Jam:
Our Elderberry Jam is made with the whole fruit and no seeds. It is then lightly sweetened with pure cane sugar and a touch of lemon juice. Dr. Oz names Elderberry Jam as one of his top five foods for brain health, and you won’t find a better tasting Elderberry Jam anywhere. Excellent stirred into plain yogurt or used to sweeten oatmeal. It is also great on fresh home made biscuits.

Elderberry Ginger Pecan Jam:
Our Elderberry Ginger Pecan Jam is loaded with chunks of pecans and candied ginger. Delicious with soft cheeses and crusty bread, this tasty and unique jam is a wonderful way to get your daily serving of elderberry.

The Ginger Pecan Jam was my absolute favorite of all, I just love the pecan taste. If you visit Norms Farms you can shop and see all the other amazing products they carry. Not only are these jams amazing but the website is too. You pull up want you want and it gives you a list of recipes that they are used in and you can pull them up and use them. I love that.

 Here is my favorite recipe:

Elderberry Coffee Cake

Preheat Oven to 350F.  Line the bottom of an 8 inch springform pan with parchment paper or non-stick baking paper.

Ingredients:
Butter Cake and Crumb Topping
2 cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup sugar
½ cup butter, cold and cut into pieces
¾  tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
¾ cup sour cream
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla

Cream Cheese Filling 
8 oz cream cheese at room temperature
¼ cup sugar
1 large egg

Elderberry Filling
8 oz Elderberry Jam

To prepare the cream cheese filling, place the cream cheese in a medium sized bowl and beat the cream cheese until smooth.  Add in the sugar and the egg and beat again until well incorporated.  Set aside.

To prepare the cake batter, combine the flour and sugar together in a large bowl. Using a pastry cutter, cut in the butter until the butter is the size of small peas and the mixture is crumbly.  Measure ¾ cup of the mixture and set aside to use as the topping.

Add the baking soda, baking powder and salt to the cake mixture and mix well.

In another bowl beat the sour cream, egg and vanilla until blended.  Stir the wet mixture gently into the flour mixture until well incorporated.  The batter will be sticky and will form a ball.

Spread the batter in the lined springform pan.  Using a spoon or fork, work the batter up the edges of the springform pan in order to form a ½ inch border, leaving a shallow well in the center.  Pour the cream cheese mixture into the well, over the batter, being careful not to go beyond the border.
Gently heat the elderberry jam over low heat, stirring frequently, until liquid.  Pour the warmed jam over the cream cheese filling, and then top with the reserved crumbs.

Bake for 50-55 minutes.  Cool in the pan on a wire rack for another 20 minutes before removing the sides of the springform pan.  Allow to cool for another 30 minutes or so before slicing.  Serve this beautiful elderberry coffee cake with…(what else?)…coffee!

Would you like to win a jar of Elderberry Jam?

Giveaway ends Sunday, October 26th at 8pm CST
Winner chosen by Random.org
Winner must check back on Monday after the giveaway to see if they are the winner.

Winner responsible for emailing us shipping info

US entries only

 

Want to win?

What do you like about Elderberry's

Like Norm's Farm on Facebook

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