 Okay...we might need one minute- thirty seconds, but really, a cake to curb your cravings can be yours in no time flat. Have you heard of mug cakes? or maybe I mean cake in a mug? Well, if you're like me, you might have dismissed the validity of this treat. I tend not to discriminate between my sweets so I still can't explain why I wasn't a believer in the cake from your microwave trend. BUT I'm a bandwagonner now! BECAUSE CAKE FROM YOUR MICROWAVE IS AWESOME! Apparently, there are all kind of variations of this magic dessert. Like these, or these, or whoa, these. Let's chat about the recipe that's led me to the dark side. It's simple. It's chocolate-y. Well, maybe, extra chocolatey is more accurate. After a little whisking and waiting, you have a rich and warm and utterly delectable cake. Even if you're not a true cake person like me (gasp! I know...), this is a winner. Chocolate Mug Cake Recipe from our favorite Trisha Yearwood 1/4 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup whole milk 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 1/4 teaspoon vanilla 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 ounce chocolate chips, dark, semi-sweet, or milk- your choice! 1. Whisk all ingredients except chocolate chips together in small bowl until well combined. Batter will be thick. 2. Pour batter into a favorite mug and sprinkle those chocolate chips on top. 3. Pop the mug in the microwave and set for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. I ended up at about 1 minute, 8 seconds. (I wanted a little gooey cake to remain.) 4. Let cool for a minute. For a little more indulgence, top with whipped cream. Yep, that is it. Enjoy this cute little single-serving cake when ever your sweet tooth strikes, especially when there's not much time to bake. Now, go make this cake. Ewe crazy not to. :) {ba dum dum, I couldn't resist! I adore this clay mug I found at Gordman's during the holidays}.
Have a great rest of the week, friends! Until next time-- xoxo
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11/15/2015 1 Comment Classic No Bake Cookies If you've been reading for a while, you know I love me some chocolate. Good news on that front, I made you a classic: no bake cookies. They're basic, but chockfull of chocolate, peanut butter, and oats. (Wait, I just gave you a a third of the ingredient list right there...) They come together in minutes in one pan. Oh, and they're incredibly addicting. So seemingly there's no bad news. BUT, I'm wearing a bridesmaid's dress in less than a week. WHY DO I DO THIS TO MYSELF? Thank goodness it's A-line and a teeny bit forgiving. The recipe is almost a non-recipe that can turn out splendidly. OR, it sends you over the edge because you need a straw for your cookies or they've setup like hockey pucks. For this very reason, my own mother refuses to make no bakes. So, over the years, I've tweaked and tried to perfect them. More times than not, the recipe below will net you a winner. Let's get to it. Classic No Bake Cookies Original Recipe 1/2 cup unsalted butter 2 cups granulated sugar 1/2 cup milk (I prefer 2% or whole) 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (if you're feeling bold, try special dark cocoa) Combine all ingredients in medium-large sauce pan. Stir well. Bring ingredients to a boil. Pro tip: This is the tricky, critical part. You want the start of a rolling boil but not one you sustain for too long. As soon as you get a good boil, turn the heat off and remove from stove top.
Once removed from the heat, immediately stir in: 1/2 cup peanut butter (I always put a little extra in, probably about 1 tablespoon or 2 extra!) 1 teaspoon vanilla (the good stuff, no artificial) 3 cups old fashioned oats.  More Pro Tips: This measuring tool from Pampered Chef is a LIFESAVER when you're using peanut butter. I'm not one for too many gadgets but this is a good item! And, most no bake cookies call for quick oats. I am not a fan. I love the full size oats. They add more body to the cookies and make them look more uniform. Doubters (like my husband initially) will be convinced. I'm a lifelong fan of Mexican vanilla. It's the best thing. My grandparents once took a trip to Cozumel (which my gma endearingly pronounced "Coashamel" and brought back some vanilla. I'm pretty sure we used that vanilla well beyond the expiration window but, really, can vanilla go bad? The smell of Mexican vanilla evokes a strong response from me, one of bliss and eagerness. Now it's the only type of vanilla you'll find in my cupboard.  Stir well. Then drop by tablespoons on to waxed paper. Let sit. (and save yourself a scoop of the hot mixture. You've earned it!)  You can make them as uniform as you'd like. But I'm in the camp that is okay with non-uniformity. A little character still eats the same. If you make bigger cookies, you'll get between 24-28 cookies. You can of course make the more bite size if you'd like. Okay. Enough belaboring a basic recipe. You can do this. Make them tonight since you likely have all of the ingredients on hand.
We'll talk again soon. Perhaps about our house. Perhaps about some Friday favorites. So much to say, coming soon. Take care! Until next time, xo 10/11/2015 3 Comments Change rocks. Donut you know? This is a story. A story of love and carbs, and change. I do carbs well (like A+ skill). I love love and do it pretty well. And change, that one, whew, not so much... but life it is a funny thing. We moved to Wichita a little over two years ago for Nick's job. Starting our life here meant I left a job that I really liked. Looking back, I actually loved it. But, we made this move together. I agreed to our move without hesitation and excitement because I love Nick and I love us. And, because he got the offer many others in his field covet. So, I got a new job in Wichita. We actually started our new jobs the same day. My experience at my new job in Wichita allowed me some great experiences planning big events, helping craft concentrated marketing efforts, connecting with some impressive people, and develop some good relationships. I had a good run in that position. But I started this blog because I wanted to share stories and honest reflections (and great food!). Accordingly, I have to be transparent. In this position, I struggled with my authenticity, the value I provided, my work-life balance, and, frankly, my happiness. Thus, I reached a tipping point and had to make a change. YES, I inserted change, BIG CHANGE, into my own life.  Switching jobs is scary. Leaving one that is stable, poised for possible growth, and reasonably compensated for one that is for lesser pay well that's enough to send a lifelong risk-manager into a tailspin. This is where the love comes in. Throughout my entire job search and interview process, Nick was the paramount cheerleader. He was my champion. He provided me the permission I thought I needed to walk away from something fine for something that could bring me new challenge and more peace. He did give me some tough love and a quasi-mandate to make a decision and not look back, either way no matter what I chose. It came down to taking the risk. Or facing regret. I would have only stayed in my former position out of fear of the unknown. So I had some lengthy consultation with those I love the most and did some soul-searching. Then I went to sleep. Yes, I slept on it. Then I woke up and charged ahead on decision day resolved to take the leap. I found this quote that describes the feeling I had, "And suddenly you just know it's time to start something new and trust the magic of new beginnings." In this journey, perhaps amplified by ever nearing end of my twenties, I've come to realize giving my energy and time to something that fulfills you is critical. Adding value to your life and the lives of others is awesome and necessary. Moreover, happiness is important. Happiness with self, work, and life. If something is standing in the way of happiness you have to move it or move you. New beginnings only happen if we make them happen. I am happy to report that I think I'm going to love my new job. I get the opportunity to tell the stories of our community's school district. I get to showcase what's good about public education and the success of students and teachers. I also get to help foster opportunities for support. Other bonuses about this new job: Practically no more extra hours. Nick and I have about the same schedule. And it frees me up to take another leap, errrr, well perhaps tip toe into the world of real estate (more on this when there's more to report.) It's true that the newness hasn't worn off, but it's safe to say I made the right choice. All this change makes me hungry. Carbs, shall we? Let's talk donuts. Better yet, pumpkin donuts.  Pumpkin Donuts with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Icing Original Donut Recipe from King Arthur Flour Makes 18 donuts 1/2 cup vegetable oil 3 large eggs 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin (not pie filling) 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 1 1/2 teaspoons salt 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 3/4 + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 2. In large mixing bowl, mix all ingredients with hand or stand mixer until well blended. 3. Stir in flour until smooth. 4. Spoon batter into non-stick sprayed standard donut pan. Fill wells about 3/4 full. 5. Bake for 15-18 minutes. Let cool in pan for 2-3 minutes then move donuts out onto cooling rack. While cooling, make icing, if desired. 1. Beat 5 tablespoons cream cheese, 3/4 cup powered sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1 1/2 teaspoons light brown sugar with hand mixer. Adjust powdered sugar and use about 2-4 tablespoons of milk to create desired consistency. We like it a little more cream cheesy, a little less sweet, and a teeny bit thick but that's the beauty of it all, customize to your liking. Note: I made the donuts the day before icing them. They were a bit sticky the next day. So I popped the donuts back into the oven at 350 for about 2-3 minutes and then dipped these babies into icing. This treat. These are incredibly easy. And the pumpkin spice is like whoa. Enjoy them this fall (more than once if you can handle it.) Before I sign off, I have to give a shout out to by husband and those who took this leap with me. THANK YOU for helping me pursue my own path and loving me through my crazy antics, my over analyzation, and my dreams. If you're headed towards a crossroads or faced with any difficult decisions, trust your tribe, trust yourself, and take the risk. Read the quotes below as they were pulled from my Instagram feed and GO FOR IT!  Until next time.
xoxo-- Ahhhhh, hello, long weekend! When you're young, holidays were relished with enthusiasm. As an adult, holidays are still great, but I think a solid long weekend is perhaps more eagerly anticipated than Christmas. It's a bonus day for productivity or lack there of. If you've got a gathering to go to still, and are in need of a dish to take, consider these simple party cheeseburgers. Now, I'll concede cheeseburgers in their traditional form are incredibly easy, but these are lower maintenance and great for a group. Plus, you don't even need to fire up the grill. The original recipe is from one of my favorite bloggers, Kevin & Amanda. Their recipes are generally practical and approachable. I first made these cheeseburgers as the main dish for the teens we feed on a monthly basis at local organization. These teens face hardship, including hunger, shelter, stability, safety, and a lack of clothing, daily. So we're always trying to provide a little bit of comfort through some great home-cooked food. Since we're cooking for a group, I try to find recipes that are teen-friendly, cost-effective and relatively quick. This one surely fits that bill. You'll need some pretty basic ingredients and about 35 minutes. If you take these to a party, I bet you'll bring home an empty pan! I have to disclose: I don't have any pictures to share with you. I could have sworn I took a few but I can't locate them. Food blogger fail! My apologies! But they're so good, I can't not post. Luckily, Kevin and Amanda's post have excellent photos it you're a visual person. AND, I'll update this post when I make them again. Cheeseburgers for a Crowd Original Recipe from Kevin and Amanda 1 pound lean ground beef (we had 90/10 on hand) 1 large onion, diced (I had a large sweet onion) 1 1/2 - 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground pepper 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon dry ground mustard 1 can of tomatoes with diced chiles, drained (i.e. Rotel) sliced cheese 12 Hawaiian Rolls Glaze 1 stick butter (8 tablespoons) 2 tablespoons light brown sugar 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon yellow mustard Directions
Seriously, that's all there is. I told you they were easy. No one wants to waste time on a long warm weekend with involved recipes. Make them. Take them. Let your friends reap the rewards of your kitchen wins. Now, go forth, and enjoy the extra day! I'll be back with some other great stuff soon. Until next time! xoxo   Holy Moly, it's Friday. Glorious Friday. I hope you've reveled in this day. And since it's still technically Friday, let's discuss some of my latest loves. 1. Lemon Water: yes, hot water with lemon juice. It may be trendy, but it's a totally legitimate habit to partake in. I started drinking a mug of hot lemon water every morning about a month ago. I'd read a lot about this simple idea and there was basically no reason no to. A quick Google search will yield plenty of positives for you. (In case you need some convincing, look here or here.) While I can't say scientifically that it's improving anything for/in me, but I can say I do feel better. I start the day with it and wait at least 15 minutes before eating or drinking anything else. I gave up my beloved Diet Pepsi for Lent which left me yearning for a boost in the AM; this gives it to me. Seriously! We recently did a long weekend trip in California. Though I had good citrus at my fingertips, I didn't have my daily lemon water dose, and by the end of the trip I was feeling incredibly sluggish. I totally attribute it to the break in my routine. Now that I'm back on the wagon, my pep has returned. There are also a few other benefits I've noticed that bring us a bit too close to TMI territory for me, but think digestion, bloating, etc. Try to add this to your morning ritual. Just do it. 2. Sally Hansen Miracle Gel Nail Polish: for many a year, I painstakingly painted my nails every few days. Then I went through a phase of acrylic nails and then shellac. But as we're trying to save and life gets busier, I have a difficult time to justifying and fitting it in. Then pre-California trip, I stumbled across this at Target. I am usually doubtful about claims of "long wear" polish. BUT. BUT. This polish does a pretty fair job living up to the purpose. It paints well and wears well. My first application did last 7 solid days before chipping. (that's through travel, hiking in CA, cleaning, and cooking!) Paint happy and don't worry for a bit. 3. This. This quote. I LOVE IT. Profoundly simple. Profoundly accurate. I came across this on Pinterest (it's on my board among many others.) When life gets chaotic or when we're not seeing expected results from our efforts, let's all remember this. We are our own best advocate. We're our own best champion. Go ahead, be your biggest fan.  4. Shutterfly Pet Tags: our pups were in need of an update. So when my coworker sent me a link for a free pet tag from Shutterfly, I jumped on it! Now, Shag and Gart are stylin'. Check them out and order your own. (Plus they have lots of options and you can customize to your heart's desire.)  Now, let us think all things Easter. I know it's Good Friday and there's not much time to dally. But fear not, I've got two treats you can whip up in no time, flat. First up, BUNNY BAIT! The name itself is adorable. And it's gobbled up quickly. Feel free to customize it to your bunnies' tastes. (And, I must confess, I didn't eat any of this so I can't vouch for the taste. I am not a popcorn fan, but my coworkers said it was a win.) Bunny Bait This recipe isn't entirely original but I didn't have one I based it off of. There are many versions floating around Pinterest so you can certainly find one for your reference if you'd like exact measurements. 1 bag microwave popcorn (probably not buttered, but use whatever you have on hand) Pretzels (I used broken up pretzel chips) Rice Chex M&Ms (festive colors always welcomed) Peanut Butter Chips Sprinkles Half of block of Vanilla Almond Bark Directions 1. Line a cookie sheet with parchment or foil. 2. Pop popcorn according to package directions. Let cool. 3. Spread popcorn on cookie sheet. Add Chex. Add pretzels. Mix around until distributed evenly. 4. Sprinkle peanut butter chips. 5. Melt almond bark in microwave safe bowl, approximately 1-2 minutes, or until smooth. Watch it and stir after first minute. 6. Drizzle melted bark over mixture on cookie sheet. 7. Sprinkle with sprinkles. 8. Stir until well combined 9. Let it set on cookie sheet. Cover or place in a dish.  Chocolate Covered "Carrots" 1 pint strawberries, rinsed and dried 3-4 blocks of vanilla almond bark Orange food coloring Directions 1. Melt almond bark in microwave safe bowl, about 1 and half minutes. 2. Add about 1 and half teaspoons of shortening in the bark. (This helps keep the coating smooth and shiny.) 3. Squirt a few drops of food coloring. Mix to desired color. 4. Dip a single strawberry into the coating. Set aside on parchment. 5. Repeat until all strawberries are coated. 6. Let dry. Store in fridge.  These treats are nothin' fancy, but they're pretty festive, and they're pretty yummy. Hope they bring you some joy and satisfaction.
May your Easter weekend be full of fun, family, and blessings! Until next time-- xoxo |
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