Jan
2014

Hummus

categories: Appetizers
30 Shares
Pin30
Share
Tweet
Yum
Email

Creamy hummus, with minced garlic, is an easy to make from scratch dip to serve as an appetizer with pita chips, or fresh vegetables.Creamy hummus, with minced garlic, is an easy to make from scratch dip to serve as an appetizer with pita chips, pita bread or fresh vegetables.

True story…I hadn’t tried hummus until a few years ago. My sister-in-law is a vegan, and once she moved to the great Pacific Northwest, she would occasionally bring this dip and veggies as an appetizer to family gatherings, etc.

Since I am definitely NOT one to leave a good-looking appetizer untouched (snicker, snicker), I found myself loving the various flavors of store-bought hummus. 

I decided to try and make some myself. That way, I could know exactly what was in the food, and I figured if I made it myself it would be cheaper (in the long run) than buying it.

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

Where Does Hummus Come From?

Hummus comes from the Arabic word for chickpeas (garbanzo beans), and is typically garbanzo beans mixed with tahini paste, lemon juice and olive oil, plus various spices. It is commonly used as a dip or spread. I LOVE hummus served with with fresh vegetables for dipping!

If you enjoy “dippable” or “spreadable” appetizers, you might also enjoy my delicious recipe for Homemade Boursin Cheese or my Mom’s Famous Cream Cheese Ball. They are both ridiculously easy to make and taste incredible!

Anyways… back to the HUMMUS. I began searching for a tasty recipe to make and came across this one by TV chef, Ina Garten. The way I figured it was, if she was a caterer AND a famous cook/celebrity, surely she must do hummus “right”.

I tried her recipe and tweaked it just a bit to my liking and have made it ever since then, just like this!

Hummus can also be served with freshly baked pita bread
This classic dip tastes great served with veggies, pita chips, or warm homemade pitas (the recipe for Homemade Pitas (as seen in the photo above) is here on my blog: Pita Bread DIY.  

The best part? Making hummus is so EASY! If you have a food processor it is super easy to make, but can also be made, using a blender, if necessary.

Sure hope you will give this delicious hummus recipe a try… it’s amazing!

Hummus, with minced garlic and paprika garnish is ready to serve!

Sure hope you try this delicious hummus recipe. I’m sure you will like it as much as we do! It is an easy and delicious appetizer you’ll enjoy.

Thanks for stopping by, and I invite you to come back soon for more family-friendly recipes. Take care, may God bless you, and have a GREAT day!

Looking For More APPETIZER Recipes?

You can find ALL of my recipes in the Recipe Index, which is located at the top of the page. I have some wonderful appetizer recipes to enjoy, including:

Want More Recipes? Get My FREE Newsletter!

I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with lots of recipes, tips, etc..
Would you like to join our growing list of subscribers?

There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use.
You can submit your e-mail address there, to be added to my mailing list.

Find Me On Social Media:

Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signatureRecipe Adapted From: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/hummus-recipe/index.html

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Hummus
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
0 mins
Total Time
10 mins
 

Creamy hummus, with minced garlic, is an easy to make from scratch dip to serve as an appetizer with pita chips, pita bread or fresh vegetables.

Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keyword: hummus
Servings: 8 servings
Calories Per Serving: 131 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
  • 4 garlic cloves , minced (I use minced garlic, straight out of a jar)
  • 2 cups canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained (liquid reserved)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/3 cup Tahini (sesame paste, can be found in most grocery stores or specialty stores)
  • 6 Tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (2 lemons)
  • 2 Tablespoons water (or reserved liquid from chickpeas)
  • 8 dashes hot sauce (I used a Louisiana-style hot sauce...your choice)
  • 2-3 Tablespoons olive oil (to drizzle into hummus)
To Garnish the Finished Hummus:
  • Additional olive oil (optional)
  • Paprika (optional)
  • Minced garlic (optional)
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
  1. Fit a food processor with steel blade. Add all ingredients (except olive oil and garnish ingredients) to processor and process until hummus is coarsely pureed. Then slowly drizzle in the 2-3 TBSP of olive oil a little at a time, until hummus reaches desired consistency (you may or may not have to add the entire amount). Taste for seasoning, and add more salt, etc. as desired.
  2. Before serving (either chilled or at room temp): I drizzle a small amount of olive oil over top, then sprinkle a touch of paprika, followed by additional minced garlic into the middle of the top of the hummus (you know...just to make it "pretty". Keep hummus refrigerated. That's it! Enjoy!
Recipe Notes

You can also purchase dried chickpeas (garbanzo beans) to use- I do this all the time. Put the equivalent of 2 cans of beans (yeah, I "guess-timate") in a bowl of water and let sit overnight (this slightly rehydrates them and begins softening them). Then place them in a saucepan filled with water and cook them for approx. one hour on medium-high, till tender. Then add to recipe and proceed with directions.

Recipe can also be processed in a blender, if a food processor is not available.

Nutrition Facts
Hummus
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 131 Calories from Fat 81
% Daily Value*
Fat 9g14%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Sodium 502mg22%
Potassium 122mg3%
Carbohydrates 9g3%
Fiber 2g8%
Protein 3g6%
Vitamin A 5IU0%
Vitamin C 6mg7%
Calcium 31mg3%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!Creamy hummus, with minced garlic, is an easy to make from scratch dip to serve as an appetizer with pita chips, pita bread or fresh vegetables.

 

 

Save

Save


Jan
2014

Sprinkle Bars

categories: Bar Cookies, Chocolate, Desserts, Holidays!
121 Shares
Pin121
Share
Tweet
Yum
Email

Sprinkle bars are classic chewy bar cookies with chocolate, coconut, and pecans! Perfectly easy dessert to make (serves 24) for the holidays, or anytime!Sprinkle bars are classic chewy bar cookies with chocolate, coconut, and pecans! Perfectly easy dessert to make (serves 24) for the holidays, or anytime!

These Sprinkle Bars are so delicious and easy to make, it’s ridiculous!  And talk about yummy…oh my goodness! Chewy, rich and decadent, they are the most requested Christmas treat at our house each year. Our family tradition at Christmas time is to have these scrumptious layered chocolate, coconut and pecan bar cookies around to munch on, and to give to our friends and neighbors.

This recipe for sprinkle bars was passed down to me from my Mom over 35 years ago. My Mom is the keeper of all things sacred, like this family favorite recipe. Where she got the original recipe is anyone’s guess. These addicting treats are also known as layer bars.

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

Why Are They Called Sprinkle Bars?

They get their name, because chocolate chips, nuts, and flaked coconut are sprinkled onto the buttery graham cracker crust, one layer at a time! Simple, right? After getting this EASY recipe from her, I’ve been making sprinkle bars every year for over 35 years! I guarantee they will not disappoint you! They are a definite Christmas tradition in our home!

The combination of flavors (HELLO chocolate, coconuts and pecans!) make this a very rich and delicious, chewy bar cookie on a buttery graham cracker crust.

A pan full of fresh baked sprinkle bars, ready to cut into pieces.
Sprinkle Bars Are Quick And Easy To Make

Sprinkle bars can be made (start to finish) in about 30 minutes, so as you can tell, they are very dangerous. Be very scared. I can hardly keep them around, once made, without my family gobbling them up!

A close up photo of several sprinkle bar cookies, ready to eat!Sometimes I put on pounds just looking at them. I’m including a photo of the last batch I made. My husband and sons absolutely LOVE Sprinkle Bars. However- I’m warning you, don’t sit and look too long at the photo! Get in your kitchen and make some of these chewy decadent bar cookies…stat!

A Christmas plate filled with sprinkle bars, ready to eat!

Another batch of sprinkle bars, cut, and ready to serve.

Variation With Colored Chocolate Chips For The Holidays

Look how cute the sprinkle bars are using red and green chocolate chips (great find at the grocery store!!!) Making them this way really adds some extra Christmas color, doesn’t it?

You can even use Christmas colored chocolate chips to make sprinkle bars!

Hope you will give these scrumptious dessert sprinkle bars a try. I’m confident you’re gonna LOVE them!  Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you will come back soon. Have a wonderful day!

Looking For More Bar Cookie Recipes?

You can find all of my bar cookie recipes in the Recipe Index, located at the top of the page. A few of our favorites include:

Interested In More Recipes?

Thank you for visiting this website. I appreciate you using some of your valuable time to do so.  If you’re interested, I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with all the latest recipes, and other fun info. I would be honored to have you join our growing list of subscribers, so you never miss a great recipe!
There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right side (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use, where you can easily submit your e-mail address (only) to be included in my mailing list.

You Can Also Find Me On Social Media:

Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signatureRecipe Source: My Mom

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Sprinkle Bars
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
35 mins
 
Sprinkle bars are classic chewy bar cookies with chocolate, coconut, and pecans! Perfectly easy dessert to make (serves 24) for the holidays, or anytime!
Category: Bar Cookies, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: sprinkle bars
Servings: 24
Calories Per Serving: 209 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup pecans or walnuts , chopped
  • 6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 1/3 cups flaked coconut
  • 14 ounces canned condensed milk (make sure it is condensed milk, NOT evaporated milk)
US Customary - Metric
Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place butter in a 9x13 pan; place pan in the oven while the oven preheats. This will melt the butter.

  2. Remove pan from oven once butter has melted and stir in, then pat down graham cracker crumbs, forming a bottom "crust". Sprinkle nuts over the top of the crumbs. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the nuts. Sprinkle the coconut over the chocolate chips (see why we call them "sprinkle" bars?)

  3. Drizzle the entire can of condensed milk over the top (it will not completely cover the ingredients, but just make sure you cover as much of the pan of ingredients as possible by drizzling it...a spoon works well to do this).
  4. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until light golden brown on top. Remove from oven to a wire rack. Let bars cool to room temperature. Cut into 24 bars and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Sprinkle Bars
Amount Per Serving (1 bar)
Calories 209 Calories from Fat 126
% Daily Value*
Fat 14g22%
Saturated Fat 7g44%
Cholesterol 16mg5%
Sodium 91mg4%
Potassium 153mg4%
Carbohydrates 18g6%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 13g14%
Protein 2g4%
Vitamin A 170IU3%
Vitamin C 0.6mg1%
Calcium 61mg6%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
 
Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!Sprinkle bars are classic chewy bar cookies with chocolate, coconut, and pecans! Perfectly easy dessert to make (serves 24) for the holidays, or anytime!

Save

Save

Save


Jan
2014

Pita Bread DIY

categories: Appetizers, Breads
29 Shares
Pin29
Share
Tweet
Yum
Email

It’s EASY making pita bread from scratch! You will enjoy eating and using this traditional puffy pocket bread, for appetizers or sandwiches!It's EASY making pita bread from scratch! You will enjoy eating and using this traditional puffy pocket bread, for appetizers or sandwiches!
Do you ever see a recipe and think to yourself “Hmmm…that might be kinda fun to try?” Well, to be honest, making pita bread had never been high on my bucket list, and I was curious HOW to make it…then I saw a recipe for homemade pita bread posted on Pinterest, and made it. It was so fantastic, I want to share the recipe, so…here is a Pita Bread DIY!

I first saw the recipe more as a challenge to try something new, versus a food item I couldn’t live without, but the part of me that was up for a new challenge won out. And guess what? I now love them!

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

What Can You Use Pita Bread For?

They are best served warm with some homemade Hummus, but are also very good when stuffed with sandwich meats or (my favorite) chicken salad. Yum. I’ve made them many times since I first tried this recipe. Trust me, this recipe for pita bread is a keeper.

Here’s a pita, shown stuffed full with chicken salad! Simply slice the pita open, and stuff with your choice of meats and/or veggies, for a delicious sandwich!

Pita bread, stuffed with chicken salad

Before Baking… And After Baking, This Pita Bread Is Amazing!

Here’s what the dough looks like, rolled out and ready to bake. They go into the oven flat as a pancake, but just wait until they are done baking…

Dough for pita bread, rolled out in circles on cutting board

Here is the pita bread, hot out of the oven. See how it is gorgeous and puffed up. Isn’t that amazing?

Puffy pita bread, hot from the oven

They are actually very easy to make; there is something quite satisfying about seeing a flat little circle of dough puff up like the Stay Puft (yes, I did have to look up how to spell this!) Marshmallow Man in the movie Ghostbusters.

Sure hope you will give these a try. I think you will enjoy making them AND eating them! Have a great day, and come back soon!

Looking For More BREAD Recipes?

You can find all my recipes in the Recipe Index, located at the top of the page. I have quite a few delicious homemade bread recipes you may enjoy, including:

Interested In More Recipes?

Thank you for visiting this website. I appreciate you using some of your valuable time to do so.  If you’re interested, I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with all the latest recipes, and other fun info. I would be honored to have you join our growing list of subscribers, so you never miss a great recipe!

There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right side (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use, where you can easily submit your e-mail address (only) to be included in my mailing list.

You Can Also Find Me On Social Media:
Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signatureRecipe Source: http://www.underthehighchair.com/2009/04/diy-pita-bread.html

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Pita Bread DIY
Prep Time
1 hr 10 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
1 hr 25 mins
 

It's EASY making pita bread from scratch! You will enjoy this puffy pocket bread, for appetizers or sandwiches!

Category: Bread
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keyword: pita bread
Servings: 6 servings
Calories Per Serving: 267 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
  • 1 Tablespoon active yeast
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3-3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes. Add 1 tsp. salt and 1 1/2 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture. Put the dough hook attachment on the mixer and beat to make the batter. Continue to add the rest of the flour, a little at a time (you may not need the entire 3 1/2 cups), until a rough "shaggy" mess has formed. Continue kneading the dough for 8 minutes or so, until the dough has become somewhat smooth and elastic. (Add more flour if the dough is still too sticky).
  2. Transfer dough to a lightly floured work surface. Tear dough into 6 pieces (for larger pitas) or 10 pieces (for smaller pitas). Form each dough piece into a ball, trying to tuck the seams under, to the bottom of the "ball". Once the dough balls have been formed, put them back onto the slightly floured surface, and flatten them with a rolling pin to between 1/4-1/2 inch thick (try to keep an even thickness for each pita). Let the dough "rest" for approx. 30-40 minutes, till slightly "puffed".

  3. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Using a spatula, scoop up each pita and flip it upside down onto a large cookie sheet (or sheets, depending on the number of pitas you are cooking). Bake the pitas at 425 degrees for 10-15 minutes (usually around 15), or till light golden brown. The pitas will miraculously puff up while baking...such fun just how they turn out! When done, remove pitas from oven and let cool on a wire rack. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Pitas are fantastic, served warm with hummus (cut them into triangles), or cut in half to form pockets for sandwiches. You can even cut them into triangles, brush them lightly with olive oil, and put them back in the oven till crisp (for pita chips). Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts
Pita Bread DIY
Amount Per Serving (1 pita)
Calories 267
% Daily Value*
Sodium 389mg17%
Potassium 84mg2%
Carbohydrates 55g18%
Fiber 2g8%
Protein 7g14%
Calcium 11mg1%
Iron 3.4mg19%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!

It's EASY making pita bread from scratch! You will enjoy eating and using this traditional puffy pocket bread, for appetizers or sandwiches!

Save

Save


Jan
2014

Chicken Piccata

categories: Chicken, Italian, Main Dishes
34 Shares
Pin34
Share
Tweet
Yum
Email

Chicken Piccata is an easy to prepare, classic Italian dish featuring chicken cutlets, cooked in broth with lemons, garlic, white wine and capers.Chicken Piccata is an easy to prepare, classic Italian dish featuring chicken cutlets, cooked in broth with lemons, garlic, white wine and capers.
My husband and I were invited to dinner in the home of good friends from our church a few months ago. We had a wonderful time visiting and then we were treated to a delicious Chicken Piccata dinner (I got to help my friend Sandy a bit in the kitchen—but SHE did 99% of the “work”).

I had never eaten Chicken Piccata before, so I was incredibly surprised how easy to make (as well as how light and delicious) the chicken was, thanks to the subtle flavors of lemons, garlic, capers and white wine. I’ve made this recipe many times since then, because it has become a favorite of ours!

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

Sharing A Great Meal With Our Friends

A great meal and great conversation with dearly loved friends…what more could we ask for? We are so blessed with the friends in our lives…truly a gift from God.

Dinner with friends where we enjoyed chicken piccata.
Well, needless to say… I left their home that evening clutching the recipe in hand (can you see me smiling?). I’ve made this recipe many times since then, but keep forgetting to take photos.

Soooo… I included a photo of the delicious Chicken Piccata my friend Sandy made the evening we joined them for dinner… I guess it counts if I sliced some lemons, gave it a little stir, took the picture, and ate the chicken, right? Ha! Have a great day!

Looking For More CHICKEN Recipes?

You can find ALL of my recipes in the Recipe Index, which is located at the top of the page. I have LOTS of chicken recipes, including:

Interested In More Recipes?

Thank you for visiting this website. I appreciate you using some of your valuable time to do so.  If you’re interested, I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with all the latest recipes, and other fun info. I would be honored to have you join our growing list of subscribers, so you never miss a great recipe!
There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right side (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use, where you can easily submit your e-mail address (only) to be included in my mailing list.

You Can Also Find Me On Social Media:
Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signature

Recipe Adapted from: www.CuisineAtHome.com

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Chicken Piccata
Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
25 mins
 

Chicken Piccata is an easy to prepare, classic Italian dish featuring chicken cutlets, cooked in broth with lemons, garlic, white wine and capers.

Category: Entree
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: chicken piccata
Servings: 4
Calories Per Serving: 491 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
  • 4 chicken cutlets (4 chicken breasts, pounded flat between pieces of plastic wrap)
  • 2-3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour (for dredging chicken)
  • Salt and Pepper (to season chicken cutlets with)
  • 6 Tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3/4 cup dry white wine
  • 3 teaspoons garlic , minced
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 6 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 6 Tablespoons capers , drained
  • 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Fresh lemon slices
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
  1. Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper, then lightly dredge both sides of chicken in the flour, shaking off the excess.
  2. Spray a skillet with nonstick spray, and add the vegetable oil to skillet; heat oil over medium-high.
  3. Saute the chicken 2-3 minutes on one side, then turn them over and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes with a lid (or covering) on the pan. Transfer chicken to a warm plate; skim off the fat from the pan.
  4. De-glaze the skillet with the wine and add the minced garlic. Cook until the garlic is slightly browned and the liquid is nearly evaporated (approx. 2-3 minutes). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Add the broth, lemon juice and capers to the skillet.
  6. Return chicken to skillet and cook for an additional minute on each side. Transfer the chicken to a warm plate (serving platter or individual plates).
  7. Finish the sauce by adding the butter and sliced lemons to skillet sauce. Once the butter melts, pour the sauce over the cutlets.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve. Enjoy! This is delicious with a side of pasta.
Nutrition Facts
Chicken Piccata
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 491 Calories from Fat 279
% Daily Value*
Fat 31g48%
Saturated Fat 21g131%
Cholesterol 123mg41%
Sodium 855mg37%
Potassium 763mg22%
Carbohydrates 7g2%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 37g74%
Vitamin A 240IU5%
Vitamin C 18.2mg22%
Calcium 27mg3%
Iron 1.3mg7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!Chicken Piccata is an easy to prepare, classic Italian dish featuring chicken cutlets, cooked in broth with lemons, garlic, white wine and capers.

 

 

Save


Jan
2014

Rainbow Jello Salad

categories: Holidays!, Salads, Side Dishes
20 Shares
Pin20
Share
Tweet
Yum
Email

A few boxes of jello, evaporated milk and water are all you need to make this colorful and delicious holiday rainbow jello salad for a crowd!A few boxes of jello, evaporated milk and water are all you need to make this colorful and delicious holiday rainbow jello salad for a crowd!

Whoa…that’s a LOT of jello! Yep, you got that right. This Rainbow Jello Salad has been taking it’s place at most of our Thanksgiving and/or holiday events for the past 30+ years.  This colorful, delicious salad could feed a small village, and it sure is pretty!

I was given this rainbow jello salad recipe by a sweet woman named Mary Alice Brannon about 35 years ago. I saw and tasted it for the first time when she brought it to a church potluck (don’t a large amount of unique recipes come from church potlucks?). This jello salad was so unique, I asked her for the recipe, and she gave it to me. Now I’ve been making this salad for over 30+ years! It’s practically become a tradition at our holiday gatherings!

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

What Flavors Are In this Rainbow Jello Salad?

The recipe uses 7 different flavors of jello powder, one can of evaporated milk, and some water. That’s it! From top to bottom, the flavors of jello in the rainbow jello salad are: Black Cherry, Cherry, Lime, Lemon, Orange, Peach and Strawberry. Every other flavor has some of the evaporated milk in it, which slightly changes the color and texture of that layer!

Why I Make Rainbow Jello Salad The Day Before Serving It

It does takes a bit of time to make this salad, because each layer has to set up before adding the next layer, but don’t let that stop you! The sheer “jiggle power” and colorful rainbow this jello salad adds to any festive meal will be worth your time.

I usually make this rainbow jello salad the day before a big event or holiday meal. When I make it for Thanksgiving, I simply work on the layers throughout the day, as I scurry around my kitchen making other side dishes! It really isn’t hard at all to do this! The next day, when I am ready to serve it, all I need to do is unmold the salad, and add the whipped cream right before serving!

Rainbow jello salad has seven layers of alternating colors!

You Can Almost Feed A Small Village With Rainbow Jello Salad

This recipe makes a LOT of rainbow jello salad (16 servings), so here’s my public service warning (ha ha). This jello salad will feed a lot of people! Unless you want this quivering tower of rainbow jello salad looking at you for a week in your refrigerator, make sure a lot of people will be there to help eat it. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Rainbow jello salad with a whipped cream garnish is ready to eat!

This rainbow jello salad is not only colorful, it actually tastes good, too…who knew? I’m getting all jiggly just thinking about it. I hope you will give this rainbow jello salad a try at your next holiday or large family gathering! Have a great day.

Looking for More SALAD Recipes Kind Of Like This One?

You can find all my recipes in the Recipe Index, located at the top of the page. I have some salad recipes similar to this one you might enjoy, including:

Interested In More Recipes?

Thank you for visiting this website. I appreciate you using some of your valuable time to do so.  If you’re interested, I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with all the latest recipes, and other fun info. I would be honored to have you join our growing list of subscribers, so you never miss a great recipe! 

There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right side (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use, where you can easily submit your e-mail address (only) to be included in my mailing list.

You Can Also Find Me On Social Media:

Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signature

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Rainbow Jello Salad
Prep Time
3 hrs
Cook Time
0 mins
Total Time
3 hrs
 
A few boxes of jello, evaporated milk and water are all you need to make this colorful and delicious holiday rainbow jello salad for a crowd!
Category: Salad
Cuisine: American
Keyword: rainbow jello salad
Servings: 16 servings
Calories Per Serving: 172 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
  • 1 can evaporated milk (13 oz.)
  • 7 boxes of jello (the small 3 oz. size)
  • (Flavors are---Black Cherry, Cherry, Lime, Lemon, Orange, Peach, and Strawberry)
  • Water
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
  1. Use a 9x13 cake pan or a bundt pan (I always use a bundt pan).
  2. Alternate method 1 and 2 in preparing layers. Be sure jello is "set" before adding the next layer (very important). I usually make one layer, pour it into pan and while that layer is cooling (I actually put it in the refrigerator), I make up the next layer. By the time the first layer is set, you can add the now warm next layer on top, and so on. Here are the two methods:
  3. Method 1: Dissolve jello into 1 cup of boiling water, then add 1/2 cup cold water
  4. Method 2: Dissolve jello into 1 cup boiling water, then add 1/2 cup evaporated milk.
Build The Jello Salad In This EXACT Order:
  1. Black Cherry (Method 1)
  2. Cherry (Method 2)
  3. Lime (Method 1)
  4. Lemon (Method 2)
  5. Orange (Method 1)
  6. Peach (Method 2)
  7. Strawberry (Method 1)

  8. Refrigerate completed jello for at least 4 hours. When ready to serve, hold the bundt pan with two hands and lower it gently into a sink full of warm water (being careful not to fully submerge it!) Only let the water come up 3/4 OF THE WAY UP THE SIDES OF THE PAN. Hold it in the warm water for approx. 30-45 seconds. BE CAREFUL NOT TO LET THE WATER RUN OVER THE EDGE OF THE PAN. You should see the edges of the jello begin to detach from the sides of the pan. Place a serving platter over the top of bundt pan-using two hands firmly holding jello pan and platter together, quickly invert them at the same time (turn it upside down). Jello should release from the pan and land on platter in all it's jiggly glory. If it does not release, flip the pan and platter back over and put jello pan back in the water for a few more seconds, then give it another shot. Once removed, place jello onto serving platter. Garnish with whipped cream. Enjoy.

Nutrition Facts
Rainbow Jello Salad
Amount Per Serving (1 serving)
Calories 172 Calories from Fat 9
% Daily Value*
Fat 1g2%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Cholesterol 6mg2%
Sodium 197mg9%
Potassium 72mg2%
Carbohydrates 35g12%
Sugar 34g38%
Protein 4g8%
Vitamin A 55IU1%
Vitamin C 0.4mg0%
Calcium 61mg6%
Iron 0.1mg1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!A few boxes of jello, evaporated milk and water are all you need to make this colorful and delicious holiday rainbow jello salad for a crowd!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Save

Save


Jan
2014

Orange Almond Biscotti

categories: Biscotti, Breakfast, Chocolate, Desserts, Holidays!
991 Shares
Pin991
Share
Tweet
Yum
Email

Orange Almond Biscotti are crispy Italian inspired cookies, with a semi-sweet chocolate base, and chocolate drizzle on top. They are perfect to dunk in coffee!Orange Almond Biscotti are crispy Italian inspired cookies, with a semi-sweet chocolate base, and chocolate drizzle on top. Perfect to dunk in coffee!

Do you like biscotti?  I REALLY love biscotti, that crispy little “breakfast cookie” Dunking biscotti unceremoniously and without apology into my steaming, hot cup of morning coffee is a good thing! Ahhhh- life’s simple pleasures! You will love the taste of these Orange Almond Biscotti!

I found this orange almond biscotti recipe online, and they were a snap to make. These Italian cookies are crispy, and taste great with a nice strong cup of coffee! A good flavor combination of orange and chocolate makes these one of my “go to” biscotti recipes.

I’ve made these crisp biscotti many times, and have given many plates of them as gifts to my unsuspecting good friends and neighbors. They are always a hit.

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

Some of the biscotti were wrapped and given to friends celebrating the arrival of Fall!
Decorating The Orange Almond Biscotti

Dipping the bottoms of the baked and cooled biscotti into melted semi-sweet chocolate makes these cookies perfect! Once cooked, place the orange almond biscotti on waxed paper to harden the chocolate. For a nice touch, drizzle some of the melted chocolate over the top of the biscotti, to finish them off.

You can see the melted chocolate on the bottom of the orange almond biscotti.
Chocolate On The Bottom AND Top Of These Biscotti

Here is a photo of the last batch of orange almond biscotti I made. I hope you enjoy these delicious little crispy cookies, too! And by all means, dunk them in a mug of coffee before each bite!

Orange almond biscotti are drizzled with melted chocolate on top.See? There is chocolate on the bottom AND drizzled on top of these cookies to make them look all cute and fancy! YUMMO!

A look at the side of one orange almond biscotti... you can see the almonds!

Hope you enjoy this recipe for orange almond biscotti! If you enjoy it, be sure to also check out my recipe for Pumpkin Spice Latte Biscotti! Have a wonderful day, friends. Thanks for stopping by. Don’t forget to check out the Recipe Index at the top of the page where you can find ALL of my recipes. Take care.

Interested In More Recipes?

Thank you for visiting this website. I appreciate you using some of your valuable time to do so.  If you’re interested, I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with all the latest recipes, and other fun info. I would be honored to have you join our growing list of subscribers, so you never miss a great recipe!
There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right side (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use, where you can easily submit your e-mail address (only) to be included in my mailing list.

You Can Also Find Me On Social Media:
Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signatureRecipe Source: http://bakingbites.com/2011/10/orange-almond-biscotti/ 

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Orange Almond Biscotti
Prep Time
30 mins
Cook Time
55 mins
Total Time
1 hr 25 mins
 

Orange Almond Biscotti are crispy Italian inspired cookies, with a semi-sweet chocolate base, and chocolate drizzle on top. Perfect to dunk in coffee!

Category: Cookie
Cuisine: American
Keyword: orange almond biscotti
Servings: 24 (approx. 2 dozen)
Calories Per Serving: 264 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 Tablespoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup butter , room temperature
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup sliced almonds , toasted (cook in skillet, stir constantly on low,. 2-3 minutes)
  • 3 Tablespoons fresh orange zest (from approx. 2 oranges)
To make chocolate glaze for bottoms of biscotti and drizzle glaze:
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 Tablespoon vegetable shortening
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar till fully mixed and light. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the egg white and vanilla extract.
  4. With the mixer on a slow speed, gradually add in the flour mixture, blending just until flour is fully mixed in. Stir in the orange zest and the toasted almonds.
  5. Divide the dough in half. With lightly floured hands, shape one half of the dough into a "log", about 2 1/2 inches high and 8-10 inches long (log should be fairly narrow) on the prepared cookie sheet (dough will be sticky, so make sure you flour your hands to work with the dough). Prepare the other half of the dough in the same manner, but make sure to use another parchment-lined cookie sheet, as the dough will "spread a bit".
  6. Place the cookie sheets in the oven and bake for 30 minutes (or until the biscotti are dark golden and set. The biscotti should spring back slightly when lightly pressed in the center. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool.
  7. Allow the dough logs to cool on a wire rack for approximately 20 minutes, then slice into cookies 1/2-3/4 inch thick, using a sharp knife. Arrange the biscotti upright on baking sheets. Lower oven temperature to 350 degrees. Put biscotti back into oven a second time and bake for 20-25 minutes, until they are lightly browned on the sides and slightly crisp. The top and bottom of the biscotti should be relatively dark. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
  8. If you want to dip the bottom of the biscotti or drizzle them with chocolate: Melt 1 cup chocolate chips (or more, as needed) in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 T. vegetable shortening in the microwave for approx. 1 to 1 1/2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds so the chocolate doesn't burn, till smooth).
  9. When biscotti have cooled completely, I dip the bottom of the biscotti (or "paint" on the chocolate using a pastry brush) in melted semi-sweet chocolate , then place on parchment paper or foil until chocolate has hardened. Then I drizzle the chocolate on top of the biscotti. I usually end up using a pastry brush to brush the melted chocolate onto the bottom of the biscotti and a honey dipper to drizzle the glaze over the top of the biscotti. Set the biscotti aside and let the chocolate complete harden, then store finished biscotti in an airtight container till you're ready to dunk 'em in your coffee. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Orange Almond Biscotti
Amount Per Serving (1 biscotti)
Calories 264 Calories from Fat 126
% Daily Value*
Fat 14g22%
Saturated Fat 7g44%
Cholesterol 41mg14%
Sodium 128mg6%
Potassium 179mg5%
Carbohydrates 32g11%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 15g17%
Protein 4g8%
Vitamin A 275IU6%
Vitamin C 1mg1%
Calcium 57mg6%
Iron 1.6mg9%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!Orange Almond Biscotti are crispy Italian inspired cookies, with a semi-sweet chocolate base, and chocolate drizzle on top. Perfect to dunk in coffee!

 

Save

Save

Save


Jan
2014

Candied Orange, Cinnamon & Clove Spiced Pecans

categories: Appetizers, Desserts, Holidays!
487 Shares
Pin487
Share
Tweet
Yum
Email

Candied Orange Spiced Pecans are delicious snacks that are first roasted, then coated in orange, cinnamon and clove sauce for maximum flavor! Candied Orange Spiced Pecans are delicious snacks that are first roasted, then coated in orange, cinnamon and clove sauce for maximum flavor!

Every year my mom orders and generously mails us several pounds of fresh-picked and shelled pecans she gets from a pecan farm in Texas.  I almost always make Candied Orange, Cinnamon & Clove Spiced Pecans with some of them at Christmas time! What a great treat it is to open the box we receive each Fall, and see bags and bags of harvested, shelled pecans that were hanging on a tree (minding their own business) just a few days before.

I use lots of these pecans for my holiday baking, but love to set some aside to make this recipe for candied pecans, which (besides being oh-so-yummy) are great to give in gift bags to friends at Christmas!

The wonderful flavors of orange, cinnamon and cloves combine to make this treat one of my personal favorites! I don’t remember where I got this little recipe card many years ago, but I DO remember the smile it brought to our faces the first time we tried them. I hope you enjoy them, as well. Here’s how easy it is to make them:

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

How To Make These Candied Orange Spiced Pecans

Spread pecans on an ungreased cookie sheet and bake @ 275 degrees for 10 minutes. In a saucepan, combine sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, salt and cloves. Bring to a boil and then boil for 2 minutes longer.  Remove pan from heat, and stir in pecans. Mix well, until pecans are fully coated.

Using a slotted spoon, remove nuts and place on waxed paper or aluminum foil, trying to keep the pecans separated from each other (I use a fork to help separate). Let the pecans dry for several hours (or until dry to the touch), then break up any of the pecans that are “stuck” to each other. That’s it!

The photos below show you the process in pictures, so you can get an idea of what the process looks like!

A collage of making the candied orange spiced pecans.
Have a great day! Sure hope you will have the opportunity to make these absolutely delicious candied spiced pecans! They’re really delicious, and I am confident you and those you love will enjoy them. Thanks for visiting today, and I hope you come back soon for more recipes.

Looking For More SNACK Recipes?

You can find ALL of my recipes in the Recipe Index, located at the top of the page. I have some great snack recipes you might enjoy, including:

Interested In More Recipes?

Thank you for visiting this website. I appreciate you using some of your valuable time to do so.  If you’re interested, I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with all the latest recipes, and other fun info. I would be honored to have you join our growing list of subscribers, so you never miss a great recipe!
There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right side (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use, where you can easily submit your e-mail address (only) to be included in my mailing list.

You Can Also Find Me On Social Media:
Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signature
Original Recipe Source: Unknown

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Candied Orange Spiced Pecans
Prep Time
5 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Time
10 mins
 

Candied Orange Spiced Pecans are delicious snacks that are first roasted, then coated in orange, cinnamon and clove sauce for maximum flavor!

Category: Candy
Cuisine: American
Keyword: candied spiced pecans
Servings: 18 (4½ cups total)
Calories Per Serving: 160 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
  • 3 cups pecan halves
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup prepared orange juice
  • 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cloves
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
  1. Spread pecans on an ungreased cookie sheet.
  2. Bake pecans @ 275 degrees for 10 minutes.
  3. In a saucepan, combine sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, salt and cloves. Bring to a boil and then boil for 2 minutes longer.
  4. Remove pan from heat, and stir in pecans. Mix well.
  5. Using a slotted spoon, remove nuts and place on waxed paper or aluminum foil, trying to keep the pecans separated from each other (I use a fork to help separate).
  6. Let the pecans dry for several hours (or until dry to the touch), then break up any of the pecans that are "stuck" to each other.
  7. Store the pecans in a covered container to keep them at their peak freshness. This recipe makes approximately 4 1/2 cups. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Candied Orange Spiced Pecans
Amount Per Serving (0.25 cup)
Calories 160 Calories from Fat 99
% Daily Value*
Fat 11g17%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Sodium 64mg3%
Potassium 76mg2%
Carbohydrates 14g5%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 12g13%
Protein 1g2%
Vitamin A 20IU0%
Vitamin C 2.5mg3%
Calcium 16mg2%
Iron 0.5mg3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!Candied Orange Spiced Pecans are delicious snacks that are first roasted, then coated in orange, cinnamon and clove sauce for maximum flavor!

 

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save


Jan
2014

Mom’s Famous Cream Cheese Ball

categories: Appetizers, Holidays!
226 Shares
Pin226
Share
Tweet
Yum
Email

Mom’s Famous Cream Cheese Ball is a delicious, easy appetizer, w/ red and green peppers, green onions and chopped pecans! So good, served on assorted crackers!Mom's Famous Cream Cheese Ball is a delicious, easy appetizer, w/ red and green peppers, green onions and chopped pecans! So good, served on assorted crackers!

I love holidays, and all the happy memories associated with them. A lot of my holiday memories revolve around simple, delicious meals with family and friends.

Mom’s Famous Cream Cheese Ball is an appetizer I’ve prepared for many years (35+), and is always a big hit. My Mom got this recipe from a friend at church over 30 years ago. Mom has now passed the recipe down (and the “serving it at the holidays” tradition) to me and my sisters.

This recipe for Mom’s Famous Cream Cheese Ball is so easy to prepare! With only a few ingredients like green and red bell peppers, green onions and pecans, it’s also easy on the wallet. It’s large enough to split into two cheese balls, if you want.

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

How To Make Mom’s Famous Cream Cheese Ball

One of the best things about Mom’s Famous Cream Cheese Ball is that it can be made the day before it is served.  I think the “good-flavor elves” work the flavors into the cheese ball even better that way. Place all the ingredients into a medium sized bowl.  Mix these ingredients together with a fork until fully combined.

The ingredients for Mom's famous cream cheese ball are placed in mixing bowl.

Mom's famous cream cheese ball ingredients are mixed together.

How To Shape Mom’s Famous Cream Cheese Ball

Line a ramekin with plastic wrap, making sure to leave a lot of the plastic wrap extended well past the edges. Use a couple pieces to ensure that all edges of the ramekin have a lot of plastic wrap hanging over the edges.

A ramekin with plastic wrap, is prepared for Mom's famous cream cheese ball mixture.

Spoon the cheese ball mixture into the ramekin. Use a spoon to firmly press down into all nooks and crannies of the ramekin.  You want to really pack it in there! Level off the top of the cheese ball.

Ingredients for Mom's famous cream cheese ball are packed into ramekin.

Once Mom’s famous cream cheese ball mixture is FIRMLY packed into the ramekin, cover tightly with the plastic wrap, pressing down as you wrap it. Make sure the cheese ball is completely wrapped. Place Mom’s famous cream cheese ball into the refrigerator for at least 6-8 hours (best if left in fridge overnight so the flavors can really develop!).

Ramekin with Mom's famous cream cheese ball is tightly wrapped, then refrigerated overnight.

When Ready To Serve

Once you are about half an hour or so before serving, remove cheese ball from refrigerator. Carefully unwrap it, and invert the the cheese ball (turn it upside down onto your serving platter. The rounded dome side of the cheese ball should be face up! Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley, if desired.

Mom’s famous cream cheese ball can be served with any kind of savory cracker. Let the cheese ball sit out at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before serving. this helps the cheese to soften up a bit (it’s easier to spread it on a cracker that way).

Mom's Famous Cream Cheese Ball, served as appetizer with various crackers.
You’re going to be surprised how delicious Mom’s famous cream cheese ball is! It is a family tradition of ours, and is usually the very first thing our grown sons head straight to, when I make it!

Mom's Famous Cream Cheese Ball, garnished with fresh parsley.
 
Mom’s Famous Cream Cheese Ball will be a HUGE hit at any gathering… trust me! It is SO GOOD! Everyone that tries it wants the recipe! Have a great day, and don’t fet to check out the Recipe Index (with ALL my recipes), located at the top of the page!
 

Looking For More APPETIZER Recipes?

If you are looking for other appetizer recipes, perhaps you would want to check out my recipes for Classic Bruschetta, Mexican Layer Dip, Crostini with Figs, Gorgonzola, Honey and Walnuts.
Maybe you would also like to serve Homemade Boursin Cheese (and crackers), or Sun-Dried Tomato and Kalamata Olive Bruschetta?
 
Interested In More Recipes?

Thank you for visiting this website. I appreciate you using some of your valuable time to do so.  If you’re interested, I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with all the latest recipes, and other fun info. I would be honored to have you join our growing list of subscribers, so you never miss a great recipe!
There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right side (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use, where you can easily submit your e-mail address (only) to be included in my mailing list.

You Can Also Find Me On Social Media:

Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signatureRecipe Source: My Mom

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Mom's Famous Cream Cheese Ball
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
0 mins
Total Time
10 mins
 

Mom's Famous Cream Cheese Ball is a delicious, easy appetizer, w/ red and green peppers, green onions and chopped pecans! So good, served on assorted crackers!

Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cream cheese ball
Servings: 40 servings (approx.) 1 Tablespoon each
Calories Per Serving: 48 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
  • 2 8 ounce packages. cream cheese , at room temp
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (I use pecans)
  • 2 stalks green onion , sliced (green stem and white part)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green pepper
  • 1/4 cup red pepper
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
  1. Place all ingredients in a medium-sized bowl. I use a fork to "mash" the ingredients together (a fork helps to blend the veggies and nuts into the cream cheese).
  2. Once completely blended, I "mold" the cheese into the shape I want to serve it in. To do this, you take plastic wrap, drape a small bowl (whatever shape you choose to use) and completely cover it with plastic wrap with the sides overlapping and hanging over the bowl several inches on each side. Then I use a spoon to "mold" the cream cheese mixture into the bowl, being sure to push the mixture into every part of the bowl and packing it down.
  3. Once packed into the bowl, make sure you level off the top part of the cheese as flat as you can (this will end up being the bottom of the cheese ball, and you want it lay flat). Wrap the excess plastic wrap completely over the top of the cheese, so it is sealed completely.
  4. Refrigerate overnight, or at least 8 hours, in order for the flavors to come together.
  5. When ready to serve, unwrap the plastic and invert the cheese ball onto serving platter. Grab a serving knife and serve with the crackers of your choice. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Mom's Famous Cream Cheese Ball
Amount Per Serving (1 Tablespoon)
Calories 48 Calories from Fat 36
% Daily Value*
Fat 4g6%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Cholesterol 12mg4%
Sodium 36mg2%
Potassium 26mg1%
Vitamin A 190IU4%
Vitamin C 2.1mg3%
Calcium 13mg1%
Iron 0.1mg1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!Mom's Famous Cream Cheese Ball is a delicious, easy appetizer, w/ red and green peppers, green onions and chopped pecans! So good, served on assorted crackers!

Save

Save


Jan
2014

Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza

categories: Italian, Main Dishes
5 Shares
Pin5
Share
Tweet
Yum
Email

Make a delicious Chicago-style deep dish pizza from scratch, with 3 cheeses, sausage, pepperoni, tomatoes, green peppers and mushrooms.Make a delicious Chicago-style deep dish pizza from scratch, with 3 cheeses, sausage, pepperoni, tomatoes, green peppers and mushrooms.

My husband and I love pizza! We especially adore Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza…it’s so amazing! While there isn’t too much that is healthy in a slice or two of a good one, occasionally we just want the sheer cheesiness (new word) and oozy goodness of hot pizza. Nine times out of ten we just order from our favorite place, or I will throw together a homemade one, if the mood hits.

However…sometimes you just have a craving for a humongous deep dish pizza. You know, the kind that can feed a small village or two. That kind. I started searching online for the basics of a good deep-dish pizza and came upon this one. It sounded pretty easy, and I knew I could add a few things to personalize it for our taste buds to be delighted.

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

This Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Tastes GREAT!

The results with this deep dish pizza are fantastic! Stuffed FULL of goodies, this pizza came out of our oven just screaming to be devoured. The filling includes, pepperoni, Italian sausage, chunky tomatoes, provolone, mozzarella, Parmesan, mushrooms and green bell peppers.

Hot, cheesy, and full of flavor…yes, yes, yes! I sure hope you enjoy this Chicago-style deep dish pizza. I know we sure do.

A Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza, ready to slice and eat!
This pizza takes a bit of prep time (for dough to rise, etc.), but I know you will LOVE the finished product…absolutely delicious! C’mon…you KNOW you want a big ol’ bite of this deep dish pizza…can you smell it? Ooooooh! Hope you enjoy it!

Looking For More PIZZA Recipes?

You can find all of my recipes in the Recipe Index, located at the top of the page. A few pizza recipes you might enjoy include:

Interested In More Recipes?

Thank you for visiting this website. I appreciate you using some of your valuable time to do so.  If you’re interested, I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with all the latest recipes, and other fun info. I would be honored to have you join our growing list of subscribers, so you never miss a great recipe!
There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right side (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use, where you can easily submit your e-mail address (only) to be included in my mailing list.

You Can Also Find Me On Social Media:
Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signatureRecipe Adapted From: http://www.seededatthetable.com/2011/01/24/chicago-style-deep-dish-pizza/

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza
Prep Time
2 hrs 30 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Total Time
2 hrs 55 mins
 

Make a delicious Chicago-style deep dish pizza from scratch, with 3 cheeses, sausage, pepperoni, tomatoes, green peppers and mushrooms.

Category: Entree
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: deep dish pizza
Servings: 8 slices
Calories Per Serving: 464 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
For the dough:
  • 1 1/2 cups + 2 TBSP all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 1/8 teaspoon. instant yeast
  • 1/2 cup + 2 Tablespoons water , at room temperature
  • 1 1/2 Tablespoons unsalted butter , melted
  • 1 teaspoon. olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter , softened
For the sauce:
  • 1 Tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 Tablespoons finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 teaspoon. dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 clove garlic , minced or pressed
  • 1 (14.5 oz.) can petite-diced tomatoes
  • Pinch of sugar
  • 2 Tablespoons chopped basil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
  • Ground black pepper , to taste
  • Salt , to taste
For the filling and topping:
  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped or sliced mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup chopped green pepper
  • 2 links Italian sausage , cooked (spicy or sweet, w/casing removed and crumbled, cooked in skillet)
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
  • 1/4 oz. grated Parmesan cheese (about 2 TBSP)
  • 4 thin slices provolone cheese
  • 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese (approx. 2 cups)
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
  1. Make the dough: Whisk together the flour, cornmeal, salt, sugar and yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer, until well blended. Attach the dough hook and mix in the water and melted butter on low speed for 1-2 minutes. Scrape dough down from sides of bowl, as needed. Increase the speed to medium-low and knead until dough is glossy and smooth (approx. 3-4 minutes)
  2. Coat a medium bowl with 1 tsp. of the olive oil. Transfer the dough to bowl, turning once to coat with oil. Cover tightly with plastic wrap; let rise at room temperature until nearly doubled in size (approx. 45-60 minutes)
  3. Once dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured, dry work surface and roll it into an 8x6 inch rectangle. To laminate the dough, spread the softened butter over the surface, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edge.
  4. Starting at the short end, roll the dough into a tight cylinder. With the seam side down, flatten the cylinder into a 9x2 inch rectangle, then fold into thirds like a business letter. Pinch the seams to form a ball, and return dough to oiled bowl.
  5. Cover tightly again with plastic wrap and let rise in the refrigerator for 40-50 minutes till it has risen quite a bit. (not doubled, but close)
  6. Prepare the sauce: In medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  7. Stir in the onion, mushrooms, green pepper, oregano, and salt. Saute until the liquid has nearly evaporated and the onion is golden brown, stirring often, about 3-5 minutes.
  8. Add the garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30-45 seconds.
  9. Stir in the tomatoes and sugar, then increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture just to a boil, then lower the heat to medium-low and continue to simmer until reduced to about 1 1/4 cups (about 15 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in basil and oil.
  10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  11. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Coat a 9 inch round cake pan with olive oil.
  12. To assemble and make pizza: Move the dough to a dry, lightly floured work surface and roll out into a 13 inch disk, about 1/4 inch thick. Fold in half and carefully transfer the dough to the pan. Unfold, and lightly press the dough to line the bottom of the pan and 1 inch up the sides of the pan. If the dough resists stretching, wait 5 minutes before trying again.
  13. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded mozzarella over the surface of the dough. Then layer 1/2 of the sauce over the cheese. Next layer is the sausage and pepperoni. Then add the other 1/2 of the sauce on top of the meat. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, the provolone slices, and the Parmesan cheese. I also sprinkle the top with a a bit more dried oregano.
  14. Bake in a 425 degree oven for 20-25 minutes (mine took 25), until the crust is golden brown. Remove pizza from oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing (trust me on this...holds together better this way).
Recipe Notes

This recipe may seem a bit labor intensive, but if you brown the Italian sausage, and cook the sauce during the "rising" times of the dough, it really isn't so much. The hardest part really is just waiting for the dough to rise...and for that FIRST TASTE! I hope you enjoy this as much as we did!

Nutrition Facts
Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza
Amount Per Serving (1 slice)
Calories 464 Calories from Fat 279
% Daily Value*
Fat 31g48%
Saturated Fat 13g81%
Cholesterol 70mg23%
Sodium 973mg42%
Potassium 358mg10%
Carbohydrates 28g9%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 3g3%
Protein 18g36%
Vitamin A 595IU12%
Vitamin C 9.2mg11%
Calcium 258mg26%
Iron 3.4mg19%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!Make a delicious Chicago-style deep dish pizza from scratch, with 3 cheeses, sausage, pepperoni, tomatoes, green peppers and mushrooms.

 

 

Save


Jan
2014

Mom’s Old-Fashioned Fudge

categories: Candy, Chocolate, Desserts, Holidays!
203 Shares
Pin201
Share
Tweet
Yum2
Email

Mom’s Old Fashioned Fudge is creamy old-fashioned chocolate fudge with pecans! Easy to make, perfect treat for parties or gift giving during the holidays!Mom's Old Fashioned Fudge is creamy old-fashioned chocolate fudge with pecans! Easy to make, perfect treat for parties or gift giving during the holidays!

My Mom has been making this old fashioned fudge for at least 50 years! My memories of Christmas time are filled with happy thoughts of my Mom making this delicious chocolate candy. Lots of our neighbors and friends received little plates of Mom’s old fashioned fudge!.

Scroll Down For A Printable Recipe Card At The Bottom Of The Page

Our Family Tradition – Making Fudge At Christmas!

I don’t even know where she got the recipe from (she calls it “See’s Fudge”), but I do know it’s been made by my Mom since I was a child (over 50 years). Now making Mom’s old fashioned fudge is my tradition, passed from one generation to the next.

Now I’ve been making this absolutely DELICIOUS old fashioned fudge every Christmas for as long as I can remember!  That’s a loooong time, folks, and I still LOVE the memories it brings to mind, and the calories it brings to my tummy! Making and giving away homemade goodies at Christmas is part of my heritage…it’s just what I love to do!

The way you make Mom’s old fashioned fudge is fairly easy. The ingredients are cooked, mixed together, then spread onto a cookie sheet and refrigerated until firm.  Once firm, the fudge is cut into small bites of creamy chocolate deliciousness!

How To Make Mom’s Old Fashioned Fudge

The first thing you need to do is to place chocolate chips, marshmallow cream, vanilla, nuts and butter in a large mixing bowl. Set this bowl aside. NOTE: It’s important to do this step ahead of time.

The reason is because once the sugar syrup is cooked and is boiling hot, you need these ready to make your batch of old fashioned fudge! You will pour the boiling hot syrup into the bowl, and the heat will melt the butter and chocolate chips.

Chocolate chips, pecans, and butter are some of the ingredients used to make old fashioned fudge.

Make The Sugar Syrup

In a large, tall saucepan, add the evaporated milk and the sugar. Bring the sugar and evaporated milk to a rolling boil. Once it reaches a full, rolling boil, cook for 9 1/2 minutes. Make sure to stir often, so it doesn’t boil over the top of the pan.

Evaporated milk and sugar are boiled to add to the old fashioned fudge ingredients.

Once the 9 1/2 minutes is up, remove the pan from the heat and quickly pour this HOT mixture into the ingredients in the mixing bowl. Stir the old fashioned fudge thoroughly (this is good for your biceps!). Continue stirring until the butter and the chocolate chips are all melted and blended smooth.

Once Fudge Is Blended Completely

Immediately pour the hot contents of the bowl onto a BUTTERED (on the bottom and sides) 9×13 cookie sheet. Spread Mom’s old fashioned fudge out, to fill the cookie sheet completely. Refrigerate the fudge for several hours until it is firm. Cut the fudge cut into small squares (it’s very rich, so you only need small pieces). Serve and enjoy!

Old fashioned fudge is spread out in baking pan, then refrigerated until firm.

How Many Pieces Of Mom’s Old Fashioned Fudge Will This Make?

This recipe makes a LOT of Mom’s old fashioned fudge. If you cut a 13×9 inch batch into 1″ squares, it will yield about 117 pieces of fudge. That’s about 2 pounds of fudge! That’s a LOT of fudge for eating OR homemade gift giving! ‘Tis the season, right?

Pieces of Mom's old fashioned fudge, ready to eat!

Be sure to store fudge in covered container in the refrigerator! You will have plenty to have around to nibble on, or to serve friends who pop in for a quick visit!

We also enjoy giving plates of Mom’s old fashioned fudge and other Christmas goodies to our neighbors and friends. I sure hope you will give this delicious, old fashioned fudge a try…it’s DELICIOUS! Enjoy!

Looking For More Christmas Goodies?

I have lots of Christmas goodies on this website! They can be found in the Recipe Index at the top of the page. There are some really great ones, including:

Interested In More Recipes?

Thank you for visiting this website. I appreciate you using some of your valuable time to do so.  If you’re interested, I publish a newsletter 2 times per month (1st and 15th) with all the latest recipes, and other fun info. I would be honored to have you join our growing list of subscribers, so you never miss a great recipe! 

There is a Newsletter subscription box on the top right side (or bottom) of each blog post, depending on the device you use, where you can easily submit your e-mail address (only) to be included in my mailing list.

You Can Also Find Me On Social Media:

Facebook page: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Pinterest: The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Instagram: jbatthegratefulgirlcooks

Author's signatureRecipe Source: My Mom

↓↓ PRINTABLE RECIPE BELOW ↓↓

0 from 0 votes
PRINT
Mom's Old-Fashioned Fudge
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Total Time
20 mins
 
Mom's Old Fashioned Fudge is creamy old-fashioned chocolate fudge with pecans! Easy to make, perfect treat for parties or gift giving during the holidays!
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: fudge, old fashioned fudge
Servings: 117 one inch pieces
Calories Per Serving: 97 kcal
Author: JB @ The Grateful Girl Cooks!
Ingredients
  • 2 pkgs. semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 8 oz. jar marshmallow creme
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 cups chopped pecans or walnuts (I use pecans)
  • 1/2 lb. butter (or margarine, if you desire- I use butter-2 cubes)
  • 1 large can of evaporated milk (regular sized-don't use the dinky one)
  • 4 cups granulated sugar
US Customary - Metric
Instructions
  1. Place the first five ingredients (chips, marshmallow creme, vanilla, nuts and butter) in a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, add the evaporated milk and the sugar. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil; once it reaches a full, rolling boil, cook for 9 1/2 minutes, stirring to be sure it doesn't boil over the top of the pan.
  3. Once the 9 1/2 minutes is up, remove the pan from the heat and quickly pour this HOT mixture into the ingredients in the mixing bowl and stir thoroughly (this is good for your biceps!) until the butter and the chocolate chips are all melted and blended smooth.
  4. Pour the contents of the bowl onto a BUTTERED (rub a bit of butter on the bottom and sides) 9x13 cookie sheet. Spread fudge mixture out to fill cookie sheet completely.
  5. Refrigerate for several hours till firm, then cut into small squares. Keep refrigerated. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Mom's Old-Fashioned Fudge
Amount Per Serving (1 (one inch square piece))
Calories 97 Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g8%
Saturated Fat 2g13%
Cholesterol 5mg2%
Sodium 17mg1%
Potassium 51mg1%
Carbohydrates 12g4%
Sugar 10g11%
Vitamin A 60IU1%
Vitamin C 0.1mg0%
Calcium 14mg1%
Iron 0.4mg2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Here’s one more to pin on your Pinterest boards!Mom's Old Fashioned Fudge is creamy old-fashioned chocolate fudge with pecans! Easy to make, perfect treat for parties or gift giving during the holidays!

 

 

Save

Save

Save