tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64580119715498321012024-03-05T05:14:33.895-08:00Baker MandyAmandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-12672585301264717222014-11-06T22:46:00.000-08:002014-11-06T22:46:40.908-08:00Some Recent Cakes!<div style="text-align: center;">
Since July of this year, I've managed to do quite a few larger cakes/larger events so I thought I'd share some pictures on here!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglJyRS3K5vdvB0lYw6c-TQQZ5HD80C93sZKeyASRTR_AjbjRejyXUA36c6iJhqGGjwKRHBZqgNj9RyXlGUALVVNcnG5XPD2EEzoMiQgARGDnpA8kTj8P0F4TYGqkZkfgv9I_og9h_3J0/s1600/1619589_10205035051818276_5745101531139501632_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglJyRS3K5vdvB0lYw6c-TQQZ5HD80C93sZKeyASRTR_AjbjRejyXUA36c6iJhqGGjwKRHBZqgNj9RyXlGUALVVNcnG5XPD2EEzoMiQgARGDnpA8kTj8P0F4TYGqkZkfgv9I_og9h_3J0/s1600/1619589_10205035051818276_5745101531139501632_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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An adoption party cake</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzSXGEoE7SpbVrCAvMCXxsUpQ2x7Sh_8KxU5BToL80A0CsnPy90CwSukFrNsc2ih1Rw7YpeQEB4fKt3im8QUta9EJW8mQIhZQCQtT5QbvLbHfLPk1AnBsLDXA3ibErg8kJVSk8p3P-Sc/s1600/10363958_340971786052389_18894805664134247_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzSXGEoE7SpbVrCAvMCXxsUpQ2x7Sh_8KxU5BToL80A0CsnPy90CwSukFrNsc2ih1Rw7YpeQEB4fKt3im8QUta9EJW8mQIhZQCQtT5QbvLbHfLPk1AnBsLDXA3ibErg8kJVSk8p3P-Sc/s1600/10363958_340971786052389_18894805664134247_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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A pink themed wedding from this summer</div>
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The cutting cake from the above wedding</div>
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An outdoor Phoenix wedding I did this fall</div>
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And lastly, a rustic wedding I did in September!</div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-42701795449369508552014-08-06T10:42:00.001-07:002014-08-06T10:42:20.374-07:00Banana Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglnGD-8OZn9JAWFPdEr5MbLYxGX-1SwFow38ouObBwI9TbQi7h9YVXdQiFGtLQ6_K5oUYFqB50pwSznoFbWqUW8keK7bI-fubZ5BQVeN_QyKMLO6cQ4jD8WjxM74zZQGZXaP2dtF-fcXc/s1600/DSC_0155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglnGD-8OZn9JAWFPdEr5MbLYxGX-1SwFow38ouObBwI9TbQi7h9YVXdQiFGtLQ6_K5oUYFqB50pwSznoFbWqUW8keK7bI-fubZ5BQVeN_QyKMLO6cQ4jD8WjxM74zZQGZXaP2dtF-fcXc/s1600/DSC_0155.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqwduossuGsNMLOWxeQv0gTLeAtSslZOPgreAyMUu7VSy9gUePYJL3ETxW4ia3yu8J1uwkAmbH3rvGimCds2dr1_mZjF6klylrnX5ECjCJv5nl7uwubhB2zZeM0DMJClrKLQJ4FD45Lw/s1600/DSC_0164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqwduossuGsNMLOWxeQv0gTLeAtSslZOPgreAyMUu7VSy9gUePYJL3ETxW4ia3yu8J1uwkAmbH3rvGimCds2dr1_mZjF6klylrnX5ECjCJv5nl7uwubhB2zZeM0DMJClrKLQJ4FD45Lw/s1600/DSC_0164.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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There's not much to say about these beauties. What more could you want in a cupcake? Chocolate, peanut butter, banana? Okay, maybe I'd want some coconut in there but I'd say it's a pretty perfect trifecta as is. Try them. You will not be disappointed. </div>
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<b><u>Banana Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cupcakes</u></b></div>
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<b>(makes about 18 cupcakes)</b></div>
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened </div>
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3/4 cup sugar</div>
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract</div>
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1 egg</div>
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1/4 cup heavy whipping cream</div>
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2 1/2 mashed large bananas</div>
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1 1/2 cups flour</div>
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1 teaspoon baking soda</div>
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1 teaspoon baking powder</div>
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1/4 teaspoon salt</div>
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1/2-1 cup chocolate chips</div>
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</div>
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Beat butter and sugar until smooth. Add egg, vanilla, bananas, and whipping cream. Mix until well combined. Whisk in flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips. Put cupcake wrappers in cupcake tins. Fill cupcake wrappers 2/3 of the way full. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool and frost. </div>
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<u><b>Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting</b></u></div>
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4 ounces of cream cheese frosting</div>
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1/3 cup powdered sugar</div>
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3/4 cup creamy peanut butter</div>
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla</div>
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1/3 cup heavy whipping cream</div>
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Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add in peanut butter and vanilla. Beat until well combined. Mix in powdered sugar followed by heavy whipping cream. </div>
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Frost cupcakes and enjoy!</div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-37518202288734549072014-07-20T20:09:00.000-07:002014-07-20T20:09:14.595-07:00Funfetti Sugar Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscH7IhwG33Kt0kXUaBqy8y6h5WJuiHnSXG7zrNAazXWkKS71PVO1Jmor65Wiq06nkZ_slVDm9LN71LWIiOswCG89Nbc5P3u2dHIWnPWDOuSirg28kKckLDfHKrO3V4xB-pyq4YWTBkm0/s1600/DSC_0167.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscH7IhwG33Kt0kXUaBqy8y6h5WJuiHnSXG7zrNAazXWkKS71PVO1Jmor65Wiq06nkZ_slVDm9LN71LWIiOswCG89Nbc5P3u2dHIWnPWDOuSirg28kKckLDfHKrO3V4xB-pyq4YWTBkm0/s1600/DSC_0167.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
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I know, you're thinking, "Wait, Baker Mandy is still alive?!" </div>
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Yes, indeed I am! And don't worry, I certainly haven't stopped baking in the past two years.</div>
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After a little hiatus... okay, a long hiatus, I have decided to make a come back! I have been feeling particularly inspired to make more recipes and just up my baking and business recently.</div>
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So with that, let's talk about these sugar cookies. As you've probably figured out from my past recipes, I tend to be a chocoholic and always add chocolate to any recipe I can. So today for my comeback recipe, I decided to try something a little different. Sugar cookies. I know, doesn't sound too exciting but let me tell you, these sugar cookies are approximately 10x better than the ordinary sugar cookie. I took this batch to my best friend and within the hour after opening the bag, she had downed three of them. </div>
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So if you're like me and tend to add chocolate to everything, put down the chocolate for a second, grab the sprinkles, and try these sugar cookies out.</div>
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<b><u>Funfetti Sugar Cookies</u></b></div>
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<b><u>(makes 12 cookies)</u></b></div>
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<b><u>Adapted from <a href="http://www.thebakerupstairs.com/2014/01/soft-funfetti-sugar-cookies.html">The Baker Upstairs </a></u></b></div>
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1/2 cup butter, softened </div>
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3/4 cup sugar </div>
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1 egg</div>
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1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla </div>
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1 1/2 cups flour </div>
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1/4 teaspoon salt </div>
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1 teaspoon baking powder </div>
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda</div>
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1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar</div>
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1 teaspoon corn starch</div>
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1/4 to 1/2 cup sprinkles</div>
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Preheat oven to 350. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with pam. In a large bowl cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla until well blended. Add flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, corn starch, and cream of tartar, and mix until a dough forms. Fold in sprinkles. Shape into 12 equal sized balls. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Remove and let cool.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-53665917784359423682012-03-21T16:28:00.000-07:002012-03-21T16:28:35.917-07:00Biscuit Cinnamon Rolls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpkaYTK9xjyt45SieMlNCJisNnhY7bwDn-LEFbckzFHDbuPEthVDgJ-KAZ0zWZETq1uog6-RcsDJRBD-D7PsiOQeRSqFJGJNKBReJb3ZxpSxSBdbBKejp-yaXXYXAJEnyLJRrR5CR8IU/s1600/DSC_0251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtpkaYTK9xjyt45SieMlNCJisNnhY7bwDn-LEFbckzFHDbuPEthVDgJ-KAZ0zWZETq1uog6-RcsDJRBD-D7PsiOQeRSqFJGJNKBReJb3ZxpSxSBdbBKejp-yaXXYXAJEnyLJRrR5CR8IU/s640/DSC_0251.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I've been MIA from this baking blogger world. I feel guilty for neglecting this little blog but I have to be honest and say that I've felt no inspiration for coming up with new recipes or baking much in general. I've been busy with school and a new job which makes it difficult to want to photograph my baking and post it. I have been on a roll with my fashion blog over <a href="http://fromaheartoverflowing.blogspot.com/">here</a> but that's definitely a different sort of blogging and my pictures only take an extra 5-10 minutes of my day to take. But anyway, I'm not sure how often I'll pop up around here but I do have a recipe for you today!<br />
For Lent, my mom gave up chocolate. Today, she was wonderful as always and let me pick out some clothes on line to order as my birthday present. She's at a meeting for the afternoon so I wanted to make a sweet treat with no chocolate that she could come home to! So here you go!<br />
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<b><u>Biscuit Cinnamon Rolls</u></b><br />
Adapted from<a href="http://joythebaker.com/2012/03/biscuit-cinnamon-rolls/"> Joy The Baker</a><br />
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For the dough:<br />
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<ul><li>3 cups flour</li>
<li>3 tablespoons sugar</li>
<li>3 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>3/4 cup cold butter, cubed</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>3/4 cup buttermilk</li>
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For the filling:<br />
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<ul><li>1/3 cup sugar</li>
<li>2 tablespoons brown sugar</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon</li>
<li>2 tablespoons butter, melted plus a little extra to brush over the tops</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 400 degrees.<br />
In a small bowl mix the sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling. Set aside. Also set aside the melted butter.<br />
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Cut in butter using hands or pastry cutter until the butter is mixed throughout in small crumb and pea size amounts. In a separate bowl, lightly beat egg, buttermilk, and vanilla. Add all at once to the flour mixture. Dough will be crumbly but turn onto a lightly floured board and knead for about 10 minutes. If the butter starts to get too warm from handling the dough, place dough in the fridge for 15 minutes and then continue.<br />
Roll out dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Spread melted butter over rolled out dough. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture. Roll dough (I rolled my horizontally) and slice into about 1 inch thick rolls. Place rolls in a 13x9 greased pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3B_zFoCYCBixsbpGHYm8Bk2YwOCShopPIhlAgDf5wAvp_tlZ2Ks63h7A5blASoKs5BX0fgYYven_8wZrHCL-iASAa-ptJfnZZdjGQoyyeg5owQl1hIBiOxqjCYGanB8vHyFDWcCTg0E/s1600/DSC_0233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF3B_zFoCYCBixsbpGHYm8Bk2YwOCShopPIhlAgDf5wAvp_tlZ2Ks63h7A5blASoKs5BX0fgYYven_8wZrHCL-iASAa-ptJfnZZdjGQoyyeg5owQl1hIBiOxqjCYGanB8vHyFDWcCTg0E/s640/DSC_0233.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5kwA-KCousfPCupbQ_llF9mI_kwDBH9B5mC-WPHZGsbSF_IrOFqEa9P0seVgk5tcmb54oTISL170c6bUbIYth-8mlKvuJ4xqw0FHvmUpLzrBLRI9ZL02OP8KbH7ySexam9pfzcYg2V6E/s1600/DSC_0258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5kwA-KCousfPCupbQ_llF9mI_kwDBH9B5mC-WPHZGsbSF_IrOFqEa9P0seVgk5tcmb54oTISL170c6bUbIYth-8mlKvuJ4xqw0FHvmUpLzrBLRI9ZL02OP8KbH7ySexam9pfzcYg2V6E/s640/DSC_0258.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy!</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-13441551922928357312012-01-14T16:18:00.000-08:002012-01-14T16:19:28.316-08:00White Chocolate Snickerdoodles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKaaS53Gacv3MbHcD6wewxXosCTDo3kJ_VsQ3ZKM1Qp80mHIIO0XScfK_dpZnUWrGqtdkbZfyrMbgtfesm086Thr_KCVxetnX_BTM_y30jbtZ5g0okjjJEr5sDsaEmIMuhwas3qA9b6co/s1600/DSC_0356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKaaS53Gacv3MbHcD6wewxXosCTDo3kJ_VsQ3ZKM1Qp80mHIIO0XScfK_dpZnUWrGqtdkbZfyrMbgtfesm086Thr_KCVxetnX_BTM_y30jbtZ5g0okjjJEr5sDsaEmIMuhwas3qA9b6co/s640/DSC_0356.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Dear 2012,<br />
Be good to me.<br />
Love,<br />
Amanda<br />
PS If you aren't, at least provide cookies.<br />
<br />
If your 2012 isn't starting out so well, make cookies. It's my solution to all of life's problems. Cookies and chocolate. They cure all life's bumps.<br />
These cookies are a delicious twist on the classic snickerdoodle. I have yet to meet someone who won't eat a good snickerdoodle. Sugary, cinnamony, buttery. What more could you ask for? Well after you try these, you're going to want to put white chocolate in all your snickedoodles. Delish.<br />
<br />
<b><u>White Chocolate Snickerdoodles</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.loveveggiesandyoga.com/2012/01/white-chocolate-snickerdoodle-cookies.html">Love Veggies and Yoga</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li>3/4 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1/4 cup sugar</li>
<li>2 egg whites</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon cinnamon</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 1/4 cup flour</li>
<li>1/2 cup white chocolate chips</li>
</ul>(Plus 1/4 cup sugar mixed with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon for the cinnamon sugar coating)<br />
Preheat oven to 350.<br />
Beat sugars and butter until smooth. Add egg whites and vanilla. Mix in cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and flour until dough comes together. Mix in white chocolate chips. Chill dough for 20-30 minutes.<br />
Roll 1 inch balls out of the dough and roll in cinnamon sugar mixture. Place on a greased baking sheet 2-3 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown.<br />
Cool and enjoy!<br />
<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Also, I've started a fashion blog over <a href="http://fromaheartoverflowing.blogspot.com/">here</a>!) </div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-46811267979065947822011-12-31T16:20:00.000-08:002011-12-31T16:20:32.957-08:00Coconut Pecan Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLqerEP7ftS5j_qlEWlb4wXErKj1az79KDP18DAteLFo7u3KKIk9c6zacYtaqiEQx_0kBcKCDuDSBzPH0ticGbi8tu7N4DZqRiUykhEkvEQ_4tNfRrbQlm8GVqCTGABL4bZyCEQOvPok/s1600/DSC_0313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqLqerEP7ftS5j_qlEWlb4wXErKj1az79KDP18DAteLFo7u3KKIk9c6zacYtaqiEQx_0kBcKCDuDSBzPH0ticGbi8tu7N4DZqRiUykhEkvEQ_4tNfRrbQlm8GVqCTGABL4bZyCEQOvPok/s640/DSC_0313.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Can you believe it? The last day of 2011. It has been quite the year. Full of ups and downs, as life often is. Let's only think about the good tonight and focus on the fact that the bad was necessary to get us to the now.<br />
One of my biggest accomplishments this year has definitely been starting this blog and getting more serious with my baking. I have learned so much and cannot wait to see what this next year brings for this little blog.<br />
I've learned, loved, laughed, been loved, baked far too much, stayed up way too late, done things I never thought I would do, and spent time with some of the greatest people I know. I truly hope your year has been as full of happiness.<br />
Now let's get to these cookies. Coconut. Pecans. Oatmeal. Chocolate Chips. This is the ultimate comfort cookie. So if you're spending a cozy night in for New Years Eve, bake up these cookies and enjoy the last few hours of this year.<br />
<b><u>Coconut Pecan Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://bakinandeggs.com/2011/01/19/oatmeal-coconut-chocolate-chip-cookies/">Bakin' and Eggs</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>1/2 cup softened butter</li>
<li>1/2 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup sugar</li>
<li>2 egg whites</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>2/3 cup flour</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 1/3 cup oats </li>
<li>2/3 cup shredded coconut</li>
<li>1/3 cup chopped pecans</li>
<li>1 cup chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven at 350.<br />
Beat butter and sugars. Add egg whites and vanilla. Mix in flour, baking soda, salt, and oats. Lastly, fold in coconut, pecans, and chocolate chips. Chill for 30 minutes.<br />
Dropped by tablespoonfuls onto a greased baking sheet.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhee3PaONE5jaORrXNCN9rMwKQu2IlQM09YgW_4gJOTPV5XvR3v2RxNDGkBcRspjS6izjfEzWIBI8K5vAtnsv9LDlGSkCiGxcxM9R0JCVAKkJZSkv2ZEIIKBTGkVL6odqB_wHG2rxSszWg/s1600/DSC_0307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhee3PaONE5jaORrXNCN9rMwKQu2IlQM09YgW_4gJOTPV5XvR3v2RxNDGkBcRspjS6izjfEzWIBI8K5vAtnsv9LDlGSkCiGxcxM9R0JCVAKkJZSkv2ZEIIKBTGkVL6odqB_wHG2rxSszWg/s640/DSC_0307.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Bake for 8-10 minutes or until slightly browned.<br />
Cool and enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDtfB2KbMiqHd4fbXI5zq-PCrUIQsVMmwXAGopStN1jo8BNOrgimmkK85CGNFp9EgAHfK9KCncZPAG0YZhXUHarEzoifGWcPxGd-CF24BDb7iAfH8Ayd8QH5C9FnhyztRpwYHCkHsSJM/s1600/DSC_0316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDtfB2KbMiqHd4fbXI5zq-PCrUIQsVMmwXAGopStN1jo8BNOrgimmkK85CGNFp9EgAHfK9KCncZPAG0YZhXUHarEzoifGWcPxGd-CF24BDb7iAfH8Ayd8QH5C9FnhyztRpwYHCkHsSJM/s640/DSC_0316.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-39364586634038404472011-12-15T14:06:00.000-08:002011-12-15T14:06:35.441-08:00Cherry Almond Cupcakes with a Cherry Almond Buttercream Frosting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3yVYUgCuQxibH7DRFMGCLD5lZzFzksoZPHlR_2dWAwgm1dlD67vSSf_Xzdsh9oXxoL7iW1vqpKSnOFygJ1FiS6bIWAB8W2XJXiV3we0P_qH8V5IDPA7GTrZvQ0veXfSi01e1ABUV8dHk/s1600/DSC_0242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3yVYUgCuQxibH7DRFMGCLD5lZzFzksoZPHlR_2dWAwgm1dlD67vSSf_Xzdsh9oXxoL7iW1vqpKSnOFygJ1FiS6bIWAB8W2XJXiV3we0P_qH8V5IDPA7GTrZvQ0veXfSi01e1ABUV8dHk/s640/DSC_0242.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I made 16 dozen cupcakes. I frosted 16 dozen cupcakes. I decorated 16 dozen cupcakes.<br />
Me. I did that. Can't quite get that through my brain.<br />
Let me tell you something. Making and decorating that many cupcakes makes you not want to eat cupcakes. At all. Not even because the thought of a cupcakes sounds unappetizing but simply because it would feel like eating your masterpiece. True story.<br />
Today I bring you these yummy cherry almond cupcakes to start off with. I made a total of 4 flavors of cupcakes and this is one of them.<br />
I am in love with the color of these cupcakes. The cherry juice makes them the sweetest pink color. They are moist and delicious. And don't have chocolate in them. This doesn't happen often around here but these are so good they don't even need delicious chocolate.<br />
Treat yourself. Make cupcakes.<br />
<b><u>Cherry Almond Cupcakes with a Cherry Almond Buttercream Frosting</u></b><br />
Adapted from Better Homes and Gardens Special Interest Publications: Cupcakes<br />
(Makes 24 cupcakes)<br />
<br />
<ul><li>1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li>1 1/3 cups sugar</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon almond extract</li>
<li>4 egg whites</li>
<li>2 cups flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>3/4 cup buttermilk</li>
<li>1/3 cup maraschino cherry juice</li>
</ul><b><u>For Frosting: </u></b><br />
<br />
<ul><li>1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li>4 cups powdered sugar</li>
<li>4 tablespoons maraschino cherry juice</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon almond extract</li>
<li>milk as needed</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 350. Combine buttermilk and cherry juice. Set aside. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside as well.<br />
Cream butter and sugar. Add vanilla, almond extract, and egg whites. Alternately add the flour mixture and the buttermilk mixture until well mixed. Spoon batter into muffin cups filling about 2/3 of the way full.<br />
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.<br />
Let cupcakes cool while you prepare the frosting.<br />
For frosting, beat butter until smooth. Add 1 cup of powdered sugar. Then beat in cherry juice and almond extract. Slowly add the remaining 3 cups of powdered sugar. If frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until desired consistency.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eET2ETbpyENWQcXx1RmwHxDbC-uKK2ngZPbARv06vJQ96DeG9WFPoMnW38PuHB_HvuIf7TZB43x1VWPxrxDgDqO1C5aCc0c2Yr2THKQ6Os6ts1A_PPcbGAD7KUlW3i7h8KcrUGx8fnQ/s1600/DSC_0241.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9eET2ETbpyENWQcXx1RmwHxDbC-uKK2ngZPbARv06vJQ96DeG9WFPoMnW38PuHB_HvuIf7TZB43x1VWPxrxDgDqO1C5aCc0c2Yr2THKQ6Os6ts1A_PPcbGAD7KUlW3i7h8KcrUGx8fnQ/s640/DSC_0241.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-85589095356469452732011-11-29T10:22:00.000-08:002011-11-29T10:22:57.272-08:00Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Banana Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eUPdvGQd1IVAn-WxCB9AX5oZp68pBUBGV36tYxNJJ9B4-Rj3EZVJyHV7tFbCKCJCZcLtI05OG-_FaIY11db3JuAzv-gfVIwQqmWW3oUMfvWoZjXNF9TtJtxS0h7_qq8bSDpah8RJUHg/s1600/DSC_0243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eUPdvGQd1IVAn-WxCB9AX5oZp68pBUBGV36tYxNJJ9B4-Rj3EZVJyHV7tFbCKCJCZcLtI05OG-_FaIY11db3JuAzv-gfVIwQqmWW3oUMfvWoZjXNF9TtJtxS0h7_qq8bSDpah8RJUHg/s640/DSC_0243.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Life is crazy right now. There's Christmas shopping, 6 dozen cookie making, 200 cupcake making, and a million little things in between. I've clearly been baking but haven't had time to get creative in the kitchen.<br />
So I made you banana bread.<br />
Not just any banana bread.<br />
This loaf gives the usual plain banana bread a special kick.<br />
So enjoy this banana bread and I promise I'll be back with something brilliant soon.<br />
<b><u>Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Banana Bread</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2011/01/chocolate-peanut-butter-banana-bread/">How Sweet It Is</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li>1/2 cup peanut butter, smooth or chunky </li>
<li>1/4 cup sugar</li>
<li>2/3 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>2 egg whites</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>3 ripe bananas, mashed</li>
<li>2 cups flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon cinnamon </li>
<li>1/2 cup milk</li>
<li>1 1/3 cups chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 350.<br />
Beat butter, peanut butter, and sugars until smooth. Add egg whites, vanilla, and bananas. Mix in flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon alternating with the milk. Add in the chocolate chips.<br />
Pour batter into a greased loaf pan. Bake for 65-75 minutes or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean.<br />
Cool and enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrl_3DDzeE9YbEJv_DEaJbOf0FeEklb405dYGERYGXekTLMwFM8N5YOGnFb0L0qp0sfgNrvbMOYInNTRP4z_U1g7wr7QoXw9L5-cb8qWmh7JcCApGR3bID0Vh0Z19oBG_aJKkhw9q4dM/s1600/DSC_0237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwrl_3DDzeE9YbEJv_DEaJbOf0FeEklb405dYGERYGXekTLMwFM8N5YOGnFb0L0qp0sfgNrvbMOYInNTRP4z_U1g7wr7QoXw9L5-cb8qWmh7JcCApGR3bID0Vh0Z19oBG_aJKkhw9q4dM/s640/DSC_0237.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5FZhHxRSfPGMcb80VBzQ9ttqNdN9JZXdbH_FWNtRML55PPV3gySEYV3KOfqHT1rBWzGa0LtCpZ3pv_G-eL_8vWHC0CkXHQis6ZjDDPOhvUgTZUBlSJveDVlD8lD32g16PaI0fu4bbcOo/s1600/DSC_0246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5FZhHxRSfPGMcb80VBzQ9ttqNdN9JZXdbH_FWNtRML55PPV3gySEYV3KOfqHT1rBWzGa0LtCpZ3pv_G-eL_8vWHC0CkXHQis6ZjDDPOhvUgTZUBlSJveDVlD8lD32g16PaI0fu4bbcOo/s640/DSC_0246.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-46391054940360095212011-11-14T11:03:00.000-08:002011-11-14T11:03:33.922-08:00Mint Chip Coconut Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFq5eSJEyqk8PwiKRnQmQ9zMneHacCWDFaRp9ex3X3Bab6Gxb3QLRGDUOvm5peG0PFLGGjSjNyMxCJ_dvQXIUp6dhNVeChh8_6MXOlE_3rpzQVHB-cGRfwxAmDo58PZFWxYrR15fHBlw/s1600/DSC_0218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWFq5eSJEyqk8PwiKRnQmQ9zMneHacCWDFaRp9ex3X3Bab6Gxb3QLRGDUOvm5peG0PFLGGjSjNyMxCJ_dvQXIUp6dhNVeChh8_6MXOlE_3rpzQVHB-cGRfwxAmDo58PZFWxYrR15fHBlw/s640/DSC_0218.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Yes, I realize it's only mid November but all that's in my mind is the holidays. On this particular day, Christmas is all I can think about. The decorations have come out and I'm just waiting for the tree.<br />
If you're not so ready for Christmas, just make these cookies and I'm sure you will be.<br />
You're probably thinking "Coconut and mint?!" Trust me when I say that it's a combination straight from the heavens. Delicious.<br />
<b><u>Mint Chip Coconut Cookies</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.sweetannas.com/2011/08/chocolate-chip-coconut-macadamia-nut.html">Sweet Anna's</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>3/4 cup butter, melted and cooled</li>
<li>1 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup sugar</li>
<li>1 egg</li>
<li>1 egg white</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla </li>
<li>2 cups flour</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 cup shredded coconut</li>
<li>2/3 cup <a href="http://www.google.com/imgres?um=1&hl=en&sa=N&biw=1280&bih=679&tbm=isch&tbnid=43L9C-7Gsy9CkM:&imgrefurl=http://www.candyblog.net/blog/category/guittard/&docid=PfiOHFKs2sI6iM&imgurl=http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2248/2156971999_c3b8f36ded.jpg&w=500&h=385&ei=JmTBTtqvDcGoiQKTlvz2Ag&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=666&vpy=370&dur=818&hovh=197&hovw=256&tx=45&ty=126&sig=105064449875399541869&page=1&tbnh=148&tbnw=180&start=0&ndsp=18&ved=1t:429,r:15,s:0">Guittard Smooth and Melty Mint Chips</a></li>
<li>2/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 325 degrees.<br />
Beat melted butter and sugars. Add egg, egg white, and vanilla. Mix in flour, salt, and baking soda. Stir in the coconut and chips. Chill dough for 20 to 30 minutes.<br />
Bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly browned.<br />
Cool and enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Qebhj6GlUkwtSzeZ9NlNVkM-n9x45kwhYVMyGm8SVft1yI5e4ED6kDsVy2vhnwxNo3jN4psArWMCljrOt-sf8gV5IFsDcR1fVAo2MmEzFfHX6QKfKV22SURZTco46AdOtf1R-ycfmvU/s1600/DSC_0212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Qebhj6GlUkwtSzeZ9NlNVkM-n9x45kwhYVMyGm8SVft1yI5e4ED6kDsVy2vhnwxNo3jN4psArWMCljrOt-sf8gV5IFsDcR1fVAo2MmEzFfHX6QKfKV22SURZTco46AdOtf1R-ycfmvU/s640/DSC_0212.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrynX_W28PIeTtSXRUW_-361PG-og9K_X-17D5jPGjqd7Q26orgrDrH-E8Y5QvOt6o3sjXTdTeXHnwtZOomfKe0xIpzoSzUEBJhffENFlRdAU9Qb2pSFt98Bgi5E9fmPP9NlY3ERYd58/s1600/DSC_0224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDrynX_W28PIeTtSXRUW_-361PG-og9K_X-17D5jPGjqd7Q26orgrDrH-E8Y5QvOt6o3sjXTdTeXHnwtZOomfKe0xIpzoSzUEBJhffENFlRdAU9Qb2pSFt98Bgi5E9fmPP9NlY3ERYd58/s640/DSC_0224.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-19093611253220837932011-11-08T17:53:00.000-08:002011-11-08T17:53:40.563-08:00Cookie Dough Brownies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG8LCBJn673sXugRBN9nqHINuEbOsSpchWklhXLNBmIq1TPb0s100qW-ShN4w731YDoFI2Aoy6UPkitr9Xsx3TdMZ8wiW_w7FhecSyMjEMQ6i3aYM5bjXpWo2e26FFEq7t627Zs9hYk_4/s1600/DSC_0184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG8LCBJn673sXugRBN9nqHINuEbOsSpchWklhXLNBmIq1TPb0s100qW-ShN4w731YDoFI2Aoy6UPkitr9Xsx3TdMZ8wiW_w7FhecSyMjEMQ6i3aYM5bjXpWo2e26FFEq7t627Zs9hYk_4/s640/DSC_0184.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
You know those days where you just make cookies to eat the cookie dough? Or brownies just to lick the spatula? It happens. It's real life. For those days, you just need a baked good like this. The best of both worlds. Cookie dough, brownies, and you still get to lick the spatula.<br />
These are made.... with a boxed brownie mix. I know, I know, I know. I'm supposed to be this baker who makes everything from scratch but sometimes you just have to take the easy route. The trick when going for boxed brownies is to splurge a little. Ghirardelli is the way to go.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1MFZAcIRsYDh1FttKc52LSKvrdtQ_4jQYL1wMzcWg_zKWTbmChI7pIpNVePp5C4Im87Ck8yO34GA2EiNEihdUxYdXC4VEYu_1bEP5vquh2xYTXIj7pbA7tH2bW_OxJ9ImWBxHCkNRix0/s1600/DSC_0175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1MFZAcIRsYDh1FttKc52LSKvrdtQ_4jQYL1wMzcWg_zKWTbmChI7pIpNVePp5C4Im87Ck8yO34GA2EiNEihdUxYdXC4VEYu_1bEP5vquh2xYTXIj7pbA7tH2bW_OxJ9ImWBxHCkNRix0/s640/DSC_0175.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Go treat yourself. Make these. Lick the bowl clean. Watch a good movie. You'll feel better in no time.<br />
<b><u>Cookie Dough Brownies</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://hauteapplepie.com/2011/10/19/cookie-dough-brownies/">Haute Apple Pie</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>9x9 Pan of prepared boxed brownies, cooled</li>
<li>1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li>1/4 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup sugar</li>
<li>3/4 teaspoon vanilla </li>
<li>1 cup flour</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/2 cup chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Beat butter and sugars. Add vanilla. Mix in flour and salt until dough forms. Add chocolate chips.<br />
Spread cookie dough over cooled brownies and freeze for about 20 minutes. Slice and enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77NRVljFhs9gQB5oB2mXxzLXUBG8L6wjCjUgtjbQLGu4qgIupwn3YYPydW5-C01Ir2GJhLgaeaQvtG5-ScgQ9I_HCNj1gmW5p4pX_AvaWcoZvclCo2-6lG2A2Zazy0SVCk5FOpPIj0vU/s1600/DSC_0178.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77NRVljFhs9gQB5oB2mXxzLXUBG8L6wjCjUgtjbQLGu4qgIupwn3YYPydW5-C01Ir2GJhLgaeaQvtG5-ScgQ9I_HCNj1gmW5p4pX_AvaWcoZvclCo2-6lG2A2Zazy0SVCk5FOpPIj0vU/s640/DSC_0178.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPnAhIjGkPSu5fEh5zzJbYPdwFffxVxuL1QVnJtAILQchSEXFvNAEpP3zfXRpsHia5UjcF0ElSzs_fiiIbmQ7f8zfpCw8Yp6-enZHA1YcE07zVoQpaD-GqgFsmjRoh_NfcgILo8ScaiwU/s1600/DSC_0188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPnAhIjGkPSu5fEh5zzJbYPdwFffxVxuL1QVnJtAILQchSEXFvNAEpP3zfXRpsHia5UjcF0ElSzs_fiiIbmQ7f8zfpCw8Yp6-enZHA1YcE07zVoQpaD-GqgFsmjRoh_NfcgILo8ScaiwU/s640/DSC_0188.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-6796703327212350332011-10-27T11:53:00.000-07:002011-10-27T11:53:01.289-07:00Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlC3S2WeA5Yq-50NFwrcuSjfzN2-pA7fHF2FTF9_UA6436XEtJcVMxgVAq3aRwZpdwxKtZYsqAxBFGb16knLSbnhCUQWTqn8t671wVL4Yjoskxyy5zcfPUHiGIStJ9BM2y-mapulHJOKI/s1600/DSC_0135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlC3S2WeA5Yq-50NFwrcuSjfzN2-pA7fHF2FTF9_UA6436XEtJcVMxgVAq3aRwZpdwxKtZYsqAxBFGb16knLSbnhCUQWTqn8t671wVL4Yjoskxyy5zcfPUHiGIStJ9BM2y-mapulHJOKI/s640/DSC_0135.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
We've all been there. Wondering why you bought bananas just to let them rippen up to the point of almost rotting. It's unfortunate but we all do it.<br />
Well here's my inspirational quote of the day.<br />
<i>When life hands you rotten bananas, make banana bread.</i><br />
Or in this case banana cookies. Either is delicious but people get tired of good old banana bread pretty quickly. So these mix it up a bit.<br />
These cookies are not as cakey as the usual recipes you see for banana or pumpkin cookies. They have a bit of a chewy texture to them and are more flat like a usual chocolate chip cookie.<br />
<b><u>Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://bakingbites.com/2011/09/banana-chocolate-chip-cookies/">Baking Bites</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>2 1/3 cups flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>3 egg whites</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon almond extract</li>
<li>1/2 cup mashed banana (1 banana)</li>
<li>1 cup semisweet chocolate chips</li>
<li>1/2 cup white chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg whites, mashed banana, and both extracts. Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix in chocolate chips until completely distributed.<br />
Drop by tablespoonfuls onto a greased baking sheet. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.<br />
Cool and enjoy!<br />
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</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-89730295224873333462011-10-10T16:30:00.000-07:002011-10-10T16:30:23.041-07:00S'mores Cookie Bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZe68B_IjBqrgU25IRxjsYgn7rNFuyiZeCoUxECEYZFC8-VKJYK8hQTgcW2o5X_VbTpn4RpwYyJeaehyphenhyphenELl9v3284M4CSB806wKf90K2eeCeoj53KYDIaRiwZxuYhtG9Jyo6wjzJcBiY/s1600/DSC_0994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZe68B_IjBqrgU25IRxjsYgn7rNFuyiZeCoUxECEYZFC8-VKJYK8hQTgcW2o5X_VbTpn4RpwYyJeaehyphenhyphenELl9v3284M4CSB806wKf90K2eeCeoj53KYDIaRiwZxuYhtG9Jyo6wjzJcBiY/s640/DSC_0994.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Let's be honest.<br />
I find <b>any</b> excuse to make these cookies.<br />
I'm obsessed. It might be a bit out of control.<br />
But just make these and you'll understand what I'm talking about. Come be obsessed with me. We'll make each other feel better.<br />
A bonus to these delicious treats is that they mail well. I've made them several times to mail across the States and the feedback has been nothing short of fantastic.<br />
Just do yourself a favor and go make these. Right now.<br />
<b><u>S'mores Cookie Bars</u></b><br />
Adapted from <i><a href="http://teacher-chef.com/2011/07/25/smores-bar-cookies/">Teacher by Day, Chef by Night</a></i><br />
<br />
<ul><li>11 tablespoons of butter, softened</li>
<li>1 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup sugar</li>
<li>3 egg whites</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 teaspoon cinnamon</li>
<li>2 1/2 cups of flour</li>
<li>1 3/4 cup mini marshmallows</li>
<li>1 cup chocolate chips</li>
<li>1 Hershey's bar, chopped into pieces</li>
<li>1 1/2- 2 packages of graham crackers, broken into pieces</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 375.<br />
Beat butter and sugars until smooth. Add egg whites and vanilla. Mix in baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and flour until dough forms. Add mini marshmallows and chocolate chips. Chill dough for about 20 minutes.<br />
Grease a baking pan. Line with the broken graham cracker pieces, covering the whole pan. Once dough is chilled, scoop tablespoonfuls onto graham cracker pieces.<br />
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Bake for about 7 minutes then take the pan out of the oven and place the broken pieces of the chocolate bar evenly over the dough. Place back in oven for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.<br />
Cool completely. Slice and enjoy!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin3pTeFTUWC-tlAgC2SjNtx5wYKHM8vS2gdEtecPtnRBNz4KtD5CiR_dKOuovf3rnwCfTM5V24-bAfkBvBU6PpFjdancD24IVr4vlH71FaY0Ey18VOiJfABvaiqDlMbyikhPWXYKiPIN0/s1600/DSC_0989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin3pTeFTUWC-tlAgC2SjNtx5wYKHM8vS2gdEtecPtnRBNz4KtD5CiR_dKOuovf3rnwCfTM5V24-bAfkBvBU6PpFjdancD24IVr4vlH71FaY0Ey18VOiJfABvaiqDlMbyikhPWXYKiPIN0/s640/DSC_0989.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b><u><br />
</u></b>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-13513263402152049882011-09-13T16:33:00.000-07:002011-09-13T16:33:47.260-07:00Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Frosting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-LTc8qSIYH-9pc1Piu9vKUfuqtuBA0BwuBhaDLf0_ru8_a4Gt5OeZCfg75K1XcRCkGBkz_sfbwdy8IUBgGZ9SD6cSDrtSxJGntEmhmJ1Kn-NegEIgTtlkzxm3_Cc4dGqHxS1EscsQkE/s1600/DSC_1026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR-LTc8qSIYH-9pc1Piu9vKUfuqtuBA0BwuBhaDLf0_ru8_a4Gt5OeZCfg75K1XcRCkGBkz_sfbwdy8IUBgGZ9SD6cSDrtSxJGntEmhmJ1Kn-NegEIgTtlkzxm3_Cc4dGqHxS1EscsQkE/s640/DSC_1026.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Every year on my birthday, I make my own birthday cake. I honestly enjoy it. It's the one time a year I pull out the fondant and attempt to get creative with my decorating. The only thing is that I spend all year making everyone else's birthday cakes or cupcakes as well. So one of these years, I hope I'll be able to not spend the night making cake in the kitchen but still get to enjoy some cake made by a loved one on my birthday.<br />
A girl can dream.<br />
These cupcakes were made in a hurry one morning when my mom remembered a co-worker's birthday was that day and asked me to whip something up. I've had this recipe bookmarked for a while and decided to give it a try. They were definitely a hit!<br />
<b><u>Chocolate Chip Cupcakes</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2010/03/chocolate-chip-cupcakes-with-cookie-dough-frosting/">How Sweet It Is</a><br />
Makes 12-16 cupcakes<br />
<br />
<ul><li>1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>3 egg whites</li>
<li>1 1/4 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>1 2/3 cup flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>2/3 cup milk</li>
<li>1 cup mini chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 350.<br />
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg whites and vanilla. Mix in flour, baking powder, and salt, alternating with the milk. Lastly, mix in the chocolate chips.<br />
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Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center of cupcakes comes out clean. Cool, frost, and enjoy!<br />
<b><u>Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Frosting</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2010/03/chocolate-chip-cupcakes-with-cookie-dough-frosting/">How Sweet It Is</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>15 tablespoons butter, softened</li>
<li>3 1/2 cups powdered sugar</li>
<li>1 1/4 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk</li>
<li>2/3 cup mini chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Beat butter. Slowly add powdered sugar. Mix in vanilla followed by the condensed milk. Once well mixed, add chocolate chips.<br />
Frost cupcakes and enjoy!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEironK8hUS9hrYDk_Xp02pnmydfIofixbs3M1qTOqH0XR8kXXX358iiqZW1Zn9bFHiwYUx6dIXDPdrbyVA02jMqj-4ty4JrlAHSAcgbGl_Sdm2ZFoRNJ7l6d1Kl7xTvCLrGPgNlUnS2Dqc/s1600/DSC_1032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEironK8hUS9hrYDk_Xp02pnmydfIofixbs3M1qTOqH0XR8kXXX358iiqZW1Zn9bFHiwYUx6dIXDPdrbyVA02jMqj-4ty4JrlAHSAcgbGl_Sdm2ZFoRNJ7l6d1Kl7xTvCLrGPgNlUnS2Dqc/s640/DSC_1032.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-8222417752660094472011-09-07T20:33:00.000-07:002011-09-07T20:33:11.899-07:00Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVqPk4v5Jbo_xMIT4h1tPjtRg1W_DATYCT74DCl7Lb7C0EoS4zzzilsq7m6rQoatHQL-wBAET8tm9_yIL9Dp1tC3A8ooZ7hO3CWzSmk_-U4Bah7l1kvj2w1eE4TKSb-XXmCBJq15xNj4/s1600/DSC_0905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVqPk4v5Jbo_xMIT4h1tPjtRg1W_DATYCT74DCl7Lb7C0EoS4zzzilsq7m6rQoatHQL-wBAET8tm9_yIL9Dp1tC3A8ooZ7hO3CWzSmk_-U4Bah7l1kvj2w1eE4TKSb-XXmCBJq15xNj4/s640/DSC_0905.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Here in Arizona, fall arrives around the end of October. I'm currently living in Phoenix so I can pretty much throw the possibility of fall arriving soon out the window. Every single day the high is somewhere around 110+ degrees. All I really want is to eat/drink pumpkin flavored things and wear tights, cardigans, and boots without risking a heat stroke. Unfortunately, I cannot do the latter but I can go home and bake pumpkin things to my hearts content.<br />
This weekend I went home and bought two cans of canned pumpkin and went away to my lovely kitchen. My first pumpkin treat for the weekend was the classic and ever so delicious pumpkin chocolate chip cookie.<br />
These are perfectly spiced, cakey, and bring you right to fall even if the weather won't cooperate.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.mybakingaddiction.com/pumpkin-chocolate-chip-cookies/">My Baking Addiction</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>1 cup canned pumpkin</li>
<li>2/3 cup sugar</li>
<li>1/3 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup vegetable oil</li>
<li>2 egg whites</li>
<li>2 teaspoons vanilla extract</li>
<li>2 1/3 cups flour</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon nutmeg</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon ginger</li>
<li>2 cups chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 350.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Mnvhm272sbAhJQCDrQD7U6QxWAaujiVrKtp68b_18ztt5xTHiuEK4Aqw7LPZoRqtwg9xTn-1wK3h8XvpkZH9Hby6Qr2lhVaB5yp17_xcLuSc5_GqSg1MOJ-_Gn2VWCGewlkjWeJJUHY/s1600/DSC_0873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Mnvhm272sbAhJQCDrQD7U6QxWAaujiVrKtp68b_18ztt5xTHiuEK4Aqw7LPZoRqtwg9xTn-1wK3h8XvpkZH9Hby6Qr2lhVaB5yp17_xcLuSc5_GqSg1MOJ-_Gn2VWCGewlkjWeJJUHY/s640/DSC_0873.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><br />
Mix pumpkin, sugars, oil, egg whites, and vanilla.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWQsyzfNedMYSYH7hyphenhyphenwf-dyGH0pmSYm3ydLa-xPNtSFfO8t5LWFuBCeuJzht_g1PbGxLg89hgYU8QK_w_0SdBMrDPGR97iEh8qVemBzPhmb1gOnUQW2JGsXrMs_tGcDXURWdC2Ny6KeF4/s1600/DSC_0877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWQsyzfNedMYSYH7hyphenhyphenwf-dyGH0pmSYm3ydLa-xPNtSFfO8t5LWFuBCeuJzht_g1PbGxLg89hgYU8QK_w_0SdBMrDPGR97iEh8qVemBzPhmb1gOnUQW2JGsXrMs_tGcDXURWdC2Ny6KeF4/s640/DSC_0877.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><br />
Once combined, add dry ingredients and mix until dough forms. Add chocolate chips. Chill dough for 15-20 minutes.<br />
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Drop by tablespoonfuls onto a grease baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes or until set.<br />
Cool and enjoy!Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-54729890228502968962011-08-29T17:32:00.000-07:002011-08-29T17:32:48.093-07:00Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cookies<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQI27TMXzUk9TK8ej7Jm7R1RW4c7yfyQX4Xw6zTMJaA34qMpfZ5M2kEEHDyI-B4OMWv0vgslfUzrYER6bUZTku_u-H8jba6bCs8sdCujrMNCOFN7FnLReRSI1jQuV0AveT8WmUJXGJslQ/s1600/DSC_0835.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQI27TMXzUk9TK8ej7Jm7R1RW4c7yfyQX4Xw6zTMJaA34qMpfZ5M2kEEHDyI-B4OMWv0vgslfUzrYER6bUZTku_u-H8jba6bCs8sdCujrMNCOFN7FnLReRSI1jQuV0AveT8WmUJXGJslQ/s640/DSC_0835.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Cookies are my go to baked treat. They're simple, don't take long, and pack so much goodness into such a small thing. Cookies are good. If you can make nothing else, at least try making some cookies. You may surprise yourself. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">You know red velvet cake, right? </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">If you haven't had it, you need to. It's like nothing else. It's incredibly delicious when made right. And who could resist a pretty, brightly colored cake? </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">These cookies give you that fun without having to make an entire cake with frosting. They are chewy and so delightful. I took a batch to the misters house and came back the next day to find a bag with only three or four cookies left. I asked him what happened to them and he simply replied "They're too good."</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b><u>Red Velvet Chocolate Chip Cookies</u></b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Adapted from <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2010/10/red-velvet-chocolate-chip-cookies-from-scratch/">How Sweet It Is</a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div><ul><li>1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li>2/3 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1/3 cup sugar</li>
<li>2 egg whites</li>
<li>1 1/4 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>1 2/3 cup flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>5 tablespoons cocoa powder</li>
<li>1 tablespoon red food coloring</li>
<li>1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips</li>
<li>1/3 cup white chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 375.<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add egg whites and vanilla.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Stir in flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well incorporated. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyth4qSVIFnH-xcvDFZhU03J2CM56xenaMQmHvJ9rXdGdCBQB0AS33q49YZZyo3AHpy0eFzzgUGjkqnF51V8-06a3eWu_wUDRG33mo7IuHjKOuRLNeeXQHMPQ0-1Splacz73Uo87P-iE/s1600/DSC_0803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXyth4qSVIFnH-xcvDFZhU03J2CM56xenaMQmHvJ9rXdGdCBQB0AS33q49YZZyo3AHpy0eFzzgUGjkqnF51V8-06a3eWu_wUDRG33mo7IuHjKOuRLNeeXQHMPQ0-1Splacz73Uo87P-iE/s640/DSC_0803.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Add the red food coloring and mix until the color is well dispersed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbOF-K9Vq2feVEOsZyTqyENdf-nKmELS8bLSJASedwENhrlDtIstExcTfMLuODcbdg1MKhz8WqXhpUvCBtGrjoMlkyfXr_RHH2Giz08jyFqhbkd8sBxH_6bzNQ99lQqOP1nRSNTwuSZI/s1600/DSC_0812.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbOF-K9Vq2feVEOsZyTqyENdf-nKmELS8bLSJASedwENhrlDtIstExcTfMLuODcbdg1MKhz8WqXhpUvCBtGrjoMlkyfXr_RHH2Giz08jyFqhbkd8sBxH_6bzNQ99lQqOP1nRSNTwuSZI/s640/DSC_0812.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Mix in chocolate chips. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSLAr2xoSwODp_gBYQQFsl1v4S4Go412LUo0opixttezVMwEgmjJNsB4NvgwWsDBX7f-M-7B2FfPun486brr0mZT6Qy2vRo3w1LoWH00Qw-22czg4UgsStu0WdV4Zmos7IITGi-UeqtTs/s1600/DSC_0815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSLAr2xoSwODp_gBYQQFsl1v4S4Go412LUo0opixttezVMwEgmjJNsB4NvgwWsDBX7f-M-7B2FfPun486brr0mZT6Qy2vRo3w1LoWH00Qw-22czg4UgsStu0WdV4Zmos7IITGi-UeqtTs/s640/DSC_0815.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Chill for about 30 minutes. Drop by tablespoonfuls on a greased baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4SHpEbxrwvRTQjhkgFNdgpkPIEN6uc3i5xFV9630XJPcbH6A7lUkhxPPXwEUzMkGo8TPAhkpLzk76i5JD6ljA68eA-lbSjF-u0NNlMNJtT7iVS2V5gcpRY7XZGU-JxIW2ABAcza0zzCA/s1600/DSC_0826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4SHpEbxrwvRTQjhkgFNdgpkPIEN6uc3i5xFV9630XJPcbH6A7lUkhxPPXwEUzMkGo8TPAhkpLzk76i5JD6ljA68eA-lbSjF-u0NNlMNJtT7iVS2V5gcpRY7XZGU-JxIW2ABAcza0zzCA/s640/DSC_0826.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Cool and enjoy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Oiv7FJoirkfov8yvjkdBZTqmhnAqQrT06KQWcRlIGxubwT8PtnguEmvsvMkoajbw07_hS3uWK4v-vb12H-07v03ZC3ErrLvkiKFd5uVJEkiIf7mtkGMAxkWwEXHXLZrDn4VL5__IzIo/s1600/DSC_0831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Oiv7FJoirkfov8yvjkdBZTqmhnAqQrT06KQWcRlIGxubwT8PtnguEmvsvMkoajbw07_hS3uWK4v-vb12H-07v03ZC3ErrLvkiKFd5uVJEkiIf7mtkGMAxkWwEXHXLZrDn4VL5__IzIo/s640/DSC_0831.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-GVZbg4_UucV2ADbbzpHyc4j7sDPm8y4wPphVHvmtjebU1FBtWErntz-2BnDrHPrg_fRJ6eUfu5nNmAYbOb-azhUhFDB7VU7DVUrSYWNby7XpGsgyi2LxIC2eweTpPyStnBtDgI-tH4/s1600/DSC_0841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-GVZbg4_UucV2ADbbzpHyc4j7sDPm8y4wPphVHvmtjebU1FBtWErntz-2BnDrHPrg_fRJ6eUfu5nNmAYbOb-azhUhFDB7VU7DVUrSYWNby7XpGsgyi2LxIC2eweTpPyStnBtDgI-tH4/s640/DSC_0841.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-7039228987107702792011-08-14T23:13:00.000-07:002012-01-07T12:00:38.977-08:00Chocolate Chip Oreo Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1odbbwsosGNcthqI5sc8HihT98huTz1dXj3xaQCTNg2oAzba-DgPT8lWFRGB1Vp2hPOBe4Ht86xma_oLpMWuJcVCkdCdUuxKlFk17xfG6kuQk0UWD2wIsaivRLaPVx8iGBSTffGG6w4/s1600/DSC_0898.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw1odbbwsosGNcthqI5sc8HihT98huTz1dXj3xaQCTNg2oAzba-DgPT8lWFRGB1Vp2hPOBe4Ht86xma_oLpMWuJcVCkdCdUuxKlFk17xfG6kuQk0UWD2wIsaivRLaPVx8iGBSTffGG6w4/s640/DSC_0898.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Oreo cookies are something almost everyone can relate to. I remember growing up, we would almost always have Oreos on hand. My parents would by them in big, bulk packages in order to satisfy my three siblings and I.<br />
These cookies are a mix of two classics that will take you back to your past and leave you with a smile on your face and one happy tummy.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Chocolate Chip Oreo Cookies</u></b><br />
<br />
<ul><li>1/2 cup butter, softened</li>
<li>3/4 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup sugar</li>
<li>2 eggs</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>2 1/4 cups flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>10 crushed Oreo cookies</li>
<li>1 1/4 cups chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 350.<br />
Beat butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add egg whites and vanilla. Mix in flour, baking soda, and baking powder to form a dough. Lastly, add crushed Oreos and chocolate chips. Chill dough for 30 minutes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOq51El9opBoIaUTRqtZ_veht7OSLJREeco-1YlEcuRMj7WbeWOFUgV9_XE9wZEVWh8TKRnslpHPMRSO0r40RYsy4ZG1ijeN02XrsbB34UVB2b-0RWSmHsttFwlmbBghbZzHh7BLaSlaE/s1600/DSC_0878.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOq51El9opBoIaUTRqtZ_veht7OSLJREeco-1YlEcuRMj7WbeWOFUgV9_XE9wZEVWh8TKRnslpHPMRSO0r40RYsy4ZG1ijeN02XrsbB34UVB2b-0RWSmHsttFwlmbBghbZzHh7BLaSlaE/s640/DSC_0878.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_7k8yItBsQz2aKaJHH7hzD65VaFlFgEdBq-2Fg5CujkK2VDU1fpdF6upmIHcziydG6St0t_ZJ7SSqMF47J-OZrisYLuHbBkUV_2EVkY2DABlmL6E1MMIYfd5yKZ80wOkYjOTsoGFjPc/s1600/DSC_0885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9_7k8yItBsQz2aKaJHH7hzD65VaFlFgEdBq-2Fg5CujkK2VDU1fpdF6upmIHcziydG6St0t_ZJ7SSqMF47J-OZrisYLuHbBkUV_2EVkY2DABlmL6E1MMIYfd5yKZ80wOkYjOTsoGFjPc/s640/DSC_0885.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
Drop dough by tablespoonfuls on a greased baking sheet and bake for 10-14 minutes or until slightly browned.<br />
Cool and enjoy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-atPkUlGSTSUSTUGA8RxsRBfhY18YGFND_yiu5-Snmc2x7RvRM2ntPhHvenLYCX9Euc6Cbl3ZF_5tJBAwZFuGLUcYtOHJw3tRlAaquUVMbDuBlYgLXHn562CnNROKlm2BoZEDH6h25U/s1600/DSC_0891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-atPkUlGSTSUSTUGA8RxsRBfhY18YGFND_yiu5-Snmc2x7RvRM2ntPhHvenLYCX9Euc6Cbl3ZF_5tJBAwZFuGLUcYtOHJw3tRlAaquUVMbDuBlYgLXHn562CnNROKlm2BoZEDH6h25U/s640/DSC_0891.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQDYkfyaOkY1VfYome_RPeM1ppY32bJXhQ8SK8sOU8eD9fE0wFTBW0JI3Eb1rxGK7gmjQVpImhekvzNv3KYq4yoL0HZHY-LXtrubucxf9-L_WXAcWWjvYGc3TU1CYaMVpNnssWsZIKjA/s1600/DSC_0905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQDYkfyaOkY1VfYome_RPeM1ppY32bJXhQ8SK8sOU8eD9fE0wFTBW0JI3Eb1rxGK7gmjQVpImhekvzNv3KYq4yoL0HZHY-LXtrubucxf9-L_WXAcWWjvYGc3TU1CYaMVpNnssWsZIKjA/s640/DSC_0905.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-25526749440778525692011-08-04T16:41:00.000-07:002011-12-15T19:31:48.803-08:00Confetti Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2MrRDEFGBn3jnHpEfpKtE6c0VGAtLkFXnT3LTrKxUabLu6pN1db4XCGGz0IMXxHrgADb-tcetGimvSapvoGFTPG2a6uN4khz4J9w6ixdEPm2RovzTQEgLMyyYs-L1DartkfEcRVB0hyg/s1600/DSC_0503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2MrRDEFGBn3jnHpEfpKtE6c0VGAtLkFXnT3LTrKxUabLu6pN1db4XCGGz0IMXxHrgADb-tcetGimvSapvoGFTPG2a6uN4khz4J9w6ixdEPm2RovzTQEgLMyyYs-L1DartkfEcRVB0hyg/s640/DSC_0503.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
When it came time to meet with the bride for the wedding cake I made about a month ago, she told me that her groom wanted Funfetti cake. I just looked at her with a blank stare. Boxed cake mix for your wedding cake?!<br />
Luckily, we both came to the conclusion that we could do red velvet for the cake and a homemade confetti cake for cupcakes. I found a great recipe for the cupcakes online and was pleased to hear that the groom absolutely loved it.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Confetti Cupcakes</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.howsweeteats.com/2011/06/homemade-funfetti-cupcakes/">How Sweet It Is</a><br />
Makes about 12 cupcakes<br />
<br />
<ul><li>7 tablespoons butter, softened</li>
<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>3 egg whites</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk</li>
<li>1/4 cup brightly colored sprinkles</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 350.<br />
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg whites and vanilla. Mix until combined. Add half the flour, baking powder and salt. Mix well. Then add the milk followed by the rest of the flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold in the sprinkles just until thoroughly mixed throughout.<br />
Pour batter into cupcake tins and fill about 2/3 of the way full. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool and frost with frosting of choice.<br />
(Unfortunately, in the chaos of making my first wedding cake, only one picture was taken of the cupcakes.)Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-47028035260986532142011-08-01T14:32:00.000-07:002011-08-01T14:32:31.947-07:00Pumpkin Oatmeal Butterscotch Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj99y9AyeOgGJJ_7RFLHnJtnFk8Q8BQrCE10Ea1VmYuPrgI-3502xTXBs9COqa50F6TJ9pBqAuNJ4YS49Qd5FhowQ_L_nSE5gz3sv2KclcvVSpndLb_PSi2OTgLqwdNL_gshyqthPLU72g/s1600/DSC_0705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj99y9AyeOgGJJ_7RFLHnJtnFk8Q8BQrCE10Ea1VmYuPrgI-3502xTXBs9COqa50F6TJ9pBqAuNJ4YS49Qd5FhowQ_L_nSE5gz3sv2KclcvVSpndLb_PSi2OTgLqwdNL_gshyqthPLU72g/s640/DSC_0705.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I realize it's summer but just bear with me for a second.<br />
Pumpkin is one of the greatest ingredients for baking. It adds a special twist and extra moisture. Thanks to the convenience of canned pumpkin, these delicious baked goods can be made all year long.<br />
These cookies are perfectly soft and just melt in your mouth.<br />
These will be a hit no matter what the crowd. Trust me.<br />
<b><u>Pumpkin Oatmeal Butterscotch Cookies</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.blueeyedbakers.com/home/2010/10/21/pumpkin-butterscotch-white-chocolate-cookies.html">Blue-Eyed Bakers</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>2 cups flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon cinnamon</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon nutmeg</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon ginger</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>3/4 cup butterscotch chips</li>
<li>10 tablespoons butter, softened</li>
<li>2/3 cup sugar</li>
<li>2/3 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>2 egg whites</li>
<li>2/3 cup canned pumpkin</li>
<li>1 cup oats</li>
<li>1 cup semisweet chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat over to 350.<br />
In a food processor pulse together flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices, and butterscotch chips are finely ground.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuN-e_DVBEqHnLu5GBW-68JCXB06P5XkDwTq57rYvpKi48gxrGGekc8L8qXndlGjhZWzzn0ncpmcMZyLEhnE1NkL3tI7Ox0cWEv-JaS9i_I8QvtTD_8rtXIFqgNqiKd5bcnkJ2Ouvq914/s1600/DSC_0692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuN-e_DVBEqHnLu5GBW-68JCXB06P5XkDwTq57rYvpKi48gxrGGekc8L8qXndlGjhZWzzn0ncpmcMZyLEhnE1NkL3tI7Ox0cWEv-JaS9i_I8QvtTD_8rtXIFqgNqiKd5bcnkJ2Ouvq914/s640/DSC_0692.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><br />
In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until fluffy. Add egg whites and pumpkin until combined. Add the flour mixture and stir. Add oats and chocolate chips. Mix until combined.<br />
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Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.<br />
Drop by tablespoon of dough onto greased baking sheets two inches apart.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhao1lZTWzwoD97yLiHFVm24dVbmJcKtv_tKUR5jgPizh4DLFTWCxYf4BzQGKJ5R9rrw9tm1s2Q1AqyiJ__mYexha0jVG0a2SDCvcdAelxanttalIY_aPaYNWsxZEDxLgpuuvBPT4EErsM/s1600/DSC_0703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhao1lZTWzwoD97yLiHFVm24dVbmJcKtv_tKUR5jgPizh4DLFTWCxYf4BzQGKJ5R9rrw9tm1s2Q1AqyiJ__mYexha0jVG0a2SDCvcdAelxanttalIY_aPaYNWsxZEDxLgpuuvBPT4EErsM/s640/DSC_0703.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cookies are golden. Cool and enjoy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9nQ5rogxHbhIqtR6U2PP7so4Rc4kfBzxRjYnpzY7R-tpKZZ8PjWFAy2eWgJRgMLPz38DiAivApxQ-QIth2Vx3jCEpIT-ohjCth7PqaXthG8XUU23IgxFafRk_hM4Bwg2q_8TI7q_XL88/s1600/DSC_0712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9nQ5rogxHbhIqtR6U2PP7so4Rc4kfBzxRjYnpzY7R-tpKZZ8PjWFAy2eWgJRgMLPz38DiAivApxQ-QIth2Vx3jCEpIT-ohjCth7PqaXthG8XUU23IgxFafRk_hM4Bwg2q_8TI7q_XL88/s640/DSC_0712.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-78604730765620555092011-07-27T11:51:00.000-07:002011-07-27T11:51:55.070-07:00White Chocolate Seven Layer Bars<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVb739b06JYdJHH2G3S_0kV-msJSxuSlYK38ts-Qiwt0Evl2HQOR2U8O7HA8UzqJ80Jw_VMXGEmCeTVPpUPHMnHBltpzFNMHjLYrw0IPpSLHT99s0nAreUMn44K896gpulPH2wwYrHtQ/s1600/DSC_0156.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSVb739b06JYdJHH2G3S_0kV-msJSxuSlYK38ts-Qiwt0Evl2HQOR2U8O7HA8UzqJ80Jw_VMXGEmCeTVPpUPHMnHBltpzFNMHjLYrw0IPpSLHT99s0nAreUMn44K896gpulPH2wwYrHtQ/s640/DSC_0156.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
These are magical. That's the only way to describe these bars. I'm sure you've heard of the traditional seven layer bar. It's a classic. A delicious classic. But these take that to the next level.<br />
Make these, cut them into circles with a cup, stand at the counter and eat the left over edges.<br />
Calories don't count when you're standing up, right?<br />
....<br />
I thought so.<br />
<br />
<b><u>White Chocolate Seven Layer Bars</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.lovefromtheoven.com/">Love From the Oven</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>1 1/3 cups graham cracker crumbs</li>
<li>6 tablespoons melted butter</li>
<li>1 (14oz.) can sweetened condensed milk</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips</li>
<li>1 1/4 cup flaked coconut</li>
<li>1/3 cup slivered almonds</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 350.<br />
Place the butter in a 13x9 pan and place in the oven to melt while the oven preheats.<br />
Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs over the melted butter. Press down. Pour the condensed milk over the graham cracker crumbs. Sprinkle the white chocolate chips and nuts over the condensed milk. Lastly, sprinkle the coconut. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.<br />
Remove from oven and let cool for 30-45 minutes. Cut and enjoy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJxGvGYvI29IoM4ya3c7rSFZFEv-7gvIwQUVp1PAWGzLAvSXnrIKWIVjIeLhp-V1VTRAw_kHGNjJ_v_sYNAlNhKemNzRHRrLeOOspN9RUeynHLhmgGvhNPdCEhl7yYaEVPoM1AmKZgU6A/s1600/DSC_0151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJxGvGYvI29IoM4ya3c7rSFZFEv-7gvIwQUVp1PAWGzLAvSXnrIKWIVjIeLhp-V1VTRAw_kHGNjJ_v_sYNAlNhKemNzRHRrLeOOspN9RUeynHLhmgGvhNPdCEhl7yYaEVPoM1AmKZgU6A/s640/DSC_0151.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-86280636556329016192011-07-26T22:46:00.000-07:002011-07-27T10:34:41.126-07:00Nutella Brownies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMaOJ5a33hqrHB0erYPjFUVHTCCmOfEDl13457iHR2JvXws4rPnIXynuYpg72BCQS-x-tJtwTkOZV1ViWXQ11flsh3XgpsrY5UFXWR9WY8_yfFDgWL8IA8b35mzJMkfsCN_ZvufqHNMB0/s1600/DSC_0731.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMaOJ5a33hqrHB0erYPjFUVHTCCmOfEDl13457iHR2JvXws4rPnIXynuYpg72BCQS-x-tJtwTkOZV1ViWXQ11flsh3XgpsrY5UFXWR9WY8_yfFDgWL8IA8b35mzJMkfsCN_ZvufqHNMB0/s640/DSC_0731.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
If you're like most, I've probably got you hooked with the title alone. Nutella seems to be all the rage these days and is absolutely exquisite in baked goods.<br />
A few nights ago, a couple of friends and I decided to go for a nice dinner date at a restaurant in a little ghost town on a mountain near us. I thought it would be fun to make dessert for us and enjoy it somewhere after our dinner. We ended up wandering the little town at night carrying a plate of these brownies. After walking up and down hills and steps in my high heels, we settled on a picnic table. We ate at least two brownies each as we watched a group of people pass by on what appeared to be a ghost tour and laughed far too much.<br />
So make these. Go to dinner. Skip dessert. Eat these instead. You won't regret a thing.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Nutella Brownies</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.forgivingmartha.com/2011/07/blueberry-nutella-brownies.html">Forgiving Martha</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>1/2 cup melted butter</li>
<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla</li>
<li>3 egg whites</li>
<li>1/3 cup cocoa powder</li>
<li>3/4 cup flour</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/2 cup Nutella</li>
<li>1/2 cup white chocolate chips</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-CJ_EZwZ7tP1YiuyW7Mqc7WZ23G0W4kICZqGBiZGm31ddiB33Qew91keHbBaeVxdv7JsdFepmfZTpZCwwIMBOfaqEuvNW4rLSkfyT3WCa1LPud9D7eTC-du6jSQvgbPVFY52Ya73V1U/s1600/DSC_0698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-CJ_EZwZ7tP1YiuyW7Mqc7WZ23G0W4kICZqGBiZGm31ddiB33Qew91keHbBaeVxdv7JsdFepmfZTpZCwwIMBOfaqEuvNW4rLSkfyT3WCa1LPud9D7eTC-du6jSQvgbPVFY52Ya73V1U/s640/DSC_0698.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Preheat oven to 350. Grease an 8x8 baking pan. I used a round pan.<br />
Mix together melted butter and sugar.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ1H54WP7AIfr3KIBpUe1o8eX75QP1x3a-xcrFGdISf1yPXj7Fv05A2xvSG05oahp7Cw-HhBRbNRcflhfb94sfmWqCnlDXtfgLLdYOces7PtTD6Wdr2U_trqnJfrCLzmLQqkbLo1AD8g0/s1600/DSC_0692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ1H54WP7AIfr3KIBpUe1o8eX75QP1x3a-xcrFGdISf1yPXj7Fv05A2xvSG05oahp7Cw-HhBRbNRcflhfb94sfmWqCnlDXtfgLLdYOces7PtTD6Wdr2U_trqnJfrCLzmLQqkbLo1AD8g0/s640/DSC_0692.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Add vanilla and eggs. Mix well.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvDISzWGUzKmxrJX4TYOuXRXTD-NMxXDzz0qKPtUjNSQ1yZ2xeUpUQBiY-K2r6AtqaN7r7EtWYcyklD1mzSTX7uEXNVJYrcSz0yep4cH76gt1WzH7zqmS0dw26iNBmFH_VqXqDB84VRE/s1600/DSC_0704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvDISzWGUzKmxrJX4TYOuXRXTD-NMxXDzz0qKPtUjNSQ1yZ2xeUpUQBiY-K2r6AtqaN7r7EtWYcyklD1mzSTX7uEXNVJYrcSz0yep4cH76gt1WzH7zqmS0dw26iNBmFH_VqXqDB84VRE/s640/DSC_0704.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
Add cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until completely combined.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL9zWEC9SAY_oN8Soan_Jlq6lEP_wQTuP5UnUcVVCx7zUxSlLfU_bQ6gV1K_Muqhyw7M2NL2zg1NuwNP8crAnrxstOWDQ6ILWpSc8BblzuxZx-QwXhZtuS4pjwtjV8SPvvzmSpA3XJIsU/s1600/DSC_0710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL9zWEC9SAY_oN8Soan_Jlq6lEP_wQTuP5UnUcVVCx7zUxSlLfU_bQ6gV1K_Muqhyw7M2NL2zg1NuwNP8crAnrxstOWDQ6ILWpSc8BblzuxZx-QwXhZtuS4pjwtjV8SPvvzmSpA3XJIsU/s640/DSC_0710.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Fold in Nutella and white chocolate chips.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0zJ4sHztcEFBx4Won5aLC1ZjuW868DQBps2ojN0QOIgF4qyJxw21ozqkaltvR-Ibn5p89QlEu-y1uc8xSpsFNi0-89uRHJamgSkKE_HcH-K5kcr6LP8CQKOG8IJVRIDXb3jnPJn48Tk/s1600/DSC_0716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0zJ4sHztcEFBx4Won5aLC1ZjuW868DQBps2ojN0QOIgF4qyJxw21ozqkaltvR-Ibn5p89QlEu-y1uc8xSpsFNi0-89uRHJamgSkKE_HcH-K5kcr6LP8CQKOG8IJVRIDXb3jnPJn48Tk/s640/DSC_0716.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Pour batter into pan.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_fpqJO5Tpl5SBX76VnL9SDOwQ0JenPYRafwcbYxE7N0ygw4pu8zSiWU2pjPoQzWrYACTP9-z6khgcwpmk0zsaek3OHoOX-62qKT9OP4N7btErjHWHW_MELba7JvXEVT5PwISa1a39Vg/s1600/DSC_0720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC_fpqJO5Tpl5SBX76VnL9SDOwQ0JenPYRafwcbYxE7N0ygw4pu8zSiWU2pjPoQzWrYACTP9-z6khgcwpmk0zsaek3OHoOX-62qKT9OP4N7btErjHWHW_MELba7JvXEVT5PwISa1a39Vg/s640/DSC_0720.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Bake for 20-30 minutes or until a set and a tooth pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool for 15-20 minutes and enjoy.<br />
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</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-78099706282714443602011-07-20T22:53:00.001-07:002011-07-27T10:40:39.585-07:00Double Chocolate Mint Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQYMRZRNApEF5-26Fy8TwW8jxkGh4DdguYh_v-6YoPGrXrmLqhAUnxsoW1vMNctIDIqrIASGR2C_FAtIIkV5Ywp7UgkjIw89eOS3QkIWVvHf2fFupN2ttiSV8eS1NBVxxKbRuNyeesUDg/s1600/DSC_0661.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQYMRZRNApEF5-26Fy8TwW8jxkGh4DdguYh_v-6YoPGrXrmLqhAUnxsoW1vMNctIDIqrIASGR2C_FAtIIkV5Ywp7UgkjIw89eOS3QkIWVvHf2fFupN2ttiSV8eS1NBVxxKbRuNyeesUDg/s640/DSC_0661.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Hi. My name is Amanda and I'm a bake-aholic.<br />
It's true. I admit it.<br />
I long ago got to the stage of this addiction where I simply embrace it. Luckily, I have a wonderful mister and friends who are more than happy to enjoy the copious amounts of brownies, cookies, and cakes.<br />
This leads us to these cookies. Someone recommended that I make something combining chocolate and mint. Some of my loved ones are big fans of the combination so I took the challenge on.<br />
These cookies are the perfect combination of chocolate and mint. The mint is not over powering but definitely still present.<br />
<b><u>Double Chocolate Mint Cookies</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.twopeasandtheirpod.com/chocolate-mint-chip-cookies/">Two Peas and Their Pod</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>1/2 cup softened butter</li>
<li>1/2 cup sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon mint extract</li>
<li>1/3 cup milk</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/2 cup cocoa powder</li>
<li>1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips</li>
<li>1/2 cup white chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 325.<br />
Beat together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla, mint extract, and milk. Once combined, add flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. Mixing until dough forms. Add both types of chocolate chips.<br />
Drop by tablespoons onto a baking sheet. (I made my cookies with a mini cookie scoop) For small cookies bake for 8-10 minutes. For larger cookies, bake 10-12 minutes.<br />
Cool and enjoy!<br />
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</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-22166072581237382662011-07-17T10:48:00.000-07:002011-07-27T10:41:21.592-07:00Perfect For Summer S'mores Blondies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-OmDECerTHGWI9KMjHmH7ymQa75anrQB3kYbQ833spHN_Q_F_6HMdHnMu_N8uJCT7UjE2yEyElsKWf98m8PPBiap3G9PfwLvv02H83OeddVaeWnaoNDjMB6td_kkWQl5NR243NaBtf4/s1600/DSC_0642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-OmDECerTHGWI9KMjHmH7ymQa75anrQB3kYbQ833spHN_Q_F_6HMdHnMu_N8uJCT7UjE2yEyElsKWf98m8PPBiap3G9PfwLvv02H83OeddVaeWnaoNDjMB6td_kkWQl5NR243NaBtf4/s640/DSC_0642.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
It's a Saturday summer night. Friends are coming over. You don't have a fire.<br />
Get out the graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars anyway! This dessert is quick to put together but will have everyone asking for more. It's perfectly gooey to remind you of the perfect smore.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Perfect For Summer S'mores</u></b><br />
<br />
<ul><li>6 tablespoons butter, melted</li>
<li>1 cup brown sugar</li>
<li>2 egg whites</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li>1/2 cup finely crushed graham crackers</li>
<li>3/4 cup flour</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 1/4 cups mini marshmallows</li>
<li>1/3 mini chocolate chips</li>
<li>Half a milk chocolate bar, cut into pieces</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 325.<br />
Put melted butter in a medium bowl. Add brown sugar. Mix until combined. Add the egg whites and vanilla. Mix in the graham cracker crumbs, flour, and salt.<br />
Pour in half of the batter into a greased 8x8 inch pan. (I used a round pan) The layer will be very thin. Spread it evenly so it covers the entire bottom of the pan. Sprinkle the marshmallows and mini chocolate chips over the batter. Pour left over batter over the marshmallows and spread. Next sprinkle the chocolate bar pieces over the newly poured batter.<br />
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Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned and set.<br />
Cool for about 20 minutes and serve.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIWiOGL8MHsjmV8A4ak-GPFuEd2lj2sHYI0gTCZXe1OXHMcQpxmudLIQ6Vfq4OsR4QWR2xhX55vZzYttS4IKfmP3Wz6JLWsY2zZ8-nSrookVrakRkz1W8plWoMatxVcJSzmgBd5obLFDc/s1600/DSC_0636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIWiOGL8MHsjmV8A4ak-GPFuEd2lj2sHYI0gTCZXe1OXHMcQpxmudLIQ6Vfq4OsR4QWR2xhX55vZzYttS4IKfmP3Wz6JLWsY2zZ8-nSrookVrakRkz1W8plWoMatxVcJSzmgBd5obLFDc/s640/DSC_0636.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-35091041040003992422011-07-11T22:59:00.000-07:002011-07-27T10:33:35.772-07:00The Big Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6D5lyE03uOZ86AcXe-bU6dWt3hKM6USPjMT-e1hXX5rYVdBE-aM2z5CyZnhHib43EXiwXFbbaYNuMNMOpI7Zo75YIXjIUE6GvvksOBYROnVpGR8FDmpOLIO6_ZLBFqdgF5DqYCHMVV8/s1600/263185_10150249764039235_579564234_7007052_4045060_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6D5lyE03uOZ86AcXe-bU6dWt3hKM6USPjMT-e1hXX5rYVdBE-aM2z5CyZnhHib43EXiwXFbbaYNuMNMOpI7Zo75YIXjIUE6GvvksOBYROnVpGR8FDmpOLIO6_ZLBFqdgF5DqYCHMVV8/s640/263185_10150249764039235_579564234_7007052_4045060_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
This past weekend, I made my first ever wedding cake and attended the wedding of one of my very best friends. I've known Chelsea for years and couldn't have been more excited to see her start her new life with someone she loves so much.<br />
There's just something about weddings. I love the dresses, suits, flowers, rings, receptions, etc. I love it all, but more so, I love what they celebrate. To see two people make such a huge leap of faith because they know their love is stronger than anything that could come their way. Two people that have chosen that, more than anything, they want to spend everyday until their last growing with the other. That, if anything, is a cause for celebration.<br />
So giving this cake as a gift for Chelsea and Danny to start their new lives together, was a complete honor for me. They've thanked me profusely, but what they do not realize is that nothing could make me happier than to make their big day a little better. So in all honesty, I want to thank them for trusting me with such an important task. I wish them all the best in this new journey filled with so much love and can only hope to have their little family supporting me on my big day in the future.<br />
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</div><b><u>Red Velvet Cake</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://joythebaker.com/">Joy the Baker</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>2 1/2 cups all purpose flour</li>
<li>1 2/3 cup sugar</li>
<li>1 tablespoon cocoa powder</li>
<li>1 teaspoon sea salt</li>
<li>1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>2 eggs</li>
<li>1 1/2 cups oil</li>
<li>1 cup buttermilk</li>
<li>1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla</li>
<li>1 oz red food coloring</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 350.<br />
Mix all dry ingredients in a large bowl. Add all the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wire whisk until well combined.<br />
Grease two 8 inch cake pans. I put parchment paper circles at the bottom of my pans to prevent the cakes from sticking.<br />
Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool partially in the pans for about 15 minutes then remove from pans and let cool completely before frosting.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Cream Cheese Frosting</u></b><br />
Adapted from <a href="http://joythebaker.com/">Joy the Baker</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>8 oz. cream cheese at room temperature</li>
<li>1 cup butter at room temperature</li>
<li>1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla</li>
<li>5 3/4 cups powdered sugar</li>
</ul>Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add vanilla. Then add the powdered sugar by the cup. Scrape the sides after each addition.<br />
Then go ahead and frost!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLyeXCV4d8UBJMhXWK9UCBAGrcA6VGhPMTEcUsQ9n37bvEMa5OQbzvMuMpmCFu0FOTdXxa-A20dEEr6azSH2teNsolUPS6lB4E7Iu05oKGyfVTvxCmLkAT3srKykRC3rgaDZhSSZZ9Rbg/s1600/270455_10150249762504235_579564234_7007021_5355174_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLyeXCV4d8UBJMhXWK9UCBAGrcA6VGhPMTEcUsQ9n37bvEMa5OQbzvMuMpmCFu0FOTdXxa-A20dEEr6azSH2teNsolUPS6lB4E7Iu05oKGyfVTvxCmLkAT3srKykRC3rgaDZhSSZZ9Rbg/s640/270455_10150249762504235_579564234_7007021_5355174_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-51379850865087620152011-07-11T16:14:00.000-07:002011-07-27T10:42:03.168-07:00Busy Busy BusyOh, what a beautiful life.<br />
I say it all the time. Too often. Sometimes it's the only way to describe this life I lead.<br />
I've got posts with new recipes lined up but in the mean time, here's a sneak peek into my life of baking recently.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrgDsWxgH3W9SKvDcxdYGfPUZZxzKJ-nbDsRK5qCrueU2mZS57r9cqJ2A-63YyAg5vZ8qJ-RO2igLqEsiuwV3RiaHDinQwSGwdAyk532-Uffbw9zSTtWOxp9k8BuEx5kAbDwZ-IXcASQ/s1600/DSC_0151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGrgDsWxgH3W9SKvDcxdYGfPUZZxzKJ-nbDsRK5qCrueU2mZS57r9cqJ2A-63YyAg5vZ8qJ-RO2igLqEsiuwV3RiaHDinQwSGwdAyk532-Uffbw9zSTtWOxp9k8BuEx5kAbDwZ-IXcASQ/s640/DSC_0151.jpg" width="424" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">White Chocolate Seven Layer Bars</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8CO7D5HSU_nB4cuHOs6etfu012rLMSwz0-9H8enERZVjaU7gnSuD64k5LDYo5ILlGpyIXJevtldvEeQdVsjipuCsEfIvKblsxURj2Awp3kE7ZS_lsQbaIh_gznrXBdqTYttQYhOeFRw/s1600/263134_2203042637889_1302057011_32669291_653802_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP8CO7D5HSU_nB4cuHOs6etfu012rLMSwz0-9H8enERZVjaU7gnSuD64k5LDYo5ILlGpyIXJevtldvEeQdVsjipuCsEfIvKblsxURj2Awp3kE7ZS_lsQbaIh_gznrXBdqTYttQYhOeFRw/s640/263134_2203042637889_1302057011_32669291_653802_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fourth of July Flag Cake</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHxVT9Jn2eJGxJJLZfpQdukzG8__y0jJQXud4k7m4CzY8ZrY09T3IoIFtUyg7hOl5JrVQgvUwGBUJX1ZATiGmuyKfDQObNir1IE8koVg1l2mwSTDJrR3JvfznxdlrqFA_iDUlqHVt9Go/s1600/DSC_0492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHxVT9Jn2eJGxJJLZfpQdukzG8__y0jJQXud4k7m4CzY8ZrY09T3IoIFtUyg7hOl5JrVQgvUwGBUJX1ZATiGmuyKfDQObNir1IE8koVg1l2mwSTDJrR3JvfznxdlrqFA_iDUlqHVt9Go/s640/DSC_0492.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Bridal Shower Chocolate Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNhIZSXTZFZtzNs4GtTysz7DmeFzxGYGc8eWF1jPXjkcurFVPPGtlqFhMjxwchD0x-V8VaR7o7l2eU6dTFPNwbgwTWcN4IqGqZHL7ICUiktxOBnHgTztF8HSAl0qLW16b6Dj_000mX2C0/s1600/DSC_0503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNhIZSXTZFZtzNs4GtTysz7DmeFzxGYGc8eWF1jPXjkcurFVPPGtlqFhMjxwchD0x-V8VaR7o7l2eU6dTFPNwbgwTWcN4IqGqZHL7ICUiktxOBnHgTztF8HSAl0qLW16b6Dj_000mX2C0/s640/DSC_0503.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Wedding Homemade Confetti Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5xipiyREkCeuZloTZ8Un5WnvUWWH0qdJIugbQCCDxlO85B1lb5ndeaG9fC3ZikEytVksVenA7v-peObwTy6q078cOCFed6GDQUlbhNtE9KUe64T2w5hcgOfpMLzW8i81UWZoY0JMXESg/s1600/263185_10150249764039235_579564234_7007052_4045060_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5xipiyREkCeuZloTZ8Un5WnvUWWH0qdJIugbQCCDxlO85B1lb5ndeaG9fC3ZikEytVksVenA7v-peObwTy6q078cOCFed6GDQUlbhNtE9KUe64T2w5hcgOfpMLzW8i81UWZoY0JMXESg/s640/263185_10150249764039235_579564234_7007052_4045060_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My very first wedding cake and cupcakes- Red Velvet with Cream Cheese Frosting</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6458011971549832101.post-38221840494594340682011-06-29T14:51:00.000-07:002011-07-27T10:42:57.253-07:00Chocolate Brownie Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJtgSQY1A8Spy9bFV1pCEH33g48Qh-Xl5LiGI_G5zbDEvvp7NO4Aeuhbe7zPtAsy5W9aaBRzitl6vgHP7LP-5fDJhKdBsXzqBn2yF7ttfA5dO18YwF2g56nVgpbIPH-Qql3peE4qXr1s/s1600/DSC_0106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRJtgSQY1A8Spy9bFV1pCEH33g48Qh-Xl5LiGI_G5zbDEvvp7NO4Aeuhbe7zPtAsy5W9aaBRzitl6vgHP7LP-5fDJhKdBsXzqBn2yF7ttfA5dO18YwF2g56nVgpbIPH-Qql3peE4qXr1s/s640/DSC_0106.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
There's no particularly interesting story behind these other than they are beyond delicious.<br />
People are going to look at you strangely when you tell them what these cookies are. Just tell them to try one. They'll love them. Trust me.<br />
They taste like a brownie but look like a delicate chocolate cookie. Chocolatey, chewy, rich.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Chocolate Brownie Cookies</u></b><br />
<a href="http://www.joythebaker.com/blog/2008/06/chocolate-brownie-cookies/">Adapted from Joy The Baker</a><br />
<br />
<ul><li>8 ounces semisweet chocolate</li>
<li>3 tablespoons butter</li>
<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>3 large eggs</li>
<li>2 teaspoons vanilla extract</li>
<li>1 1/4 cup flour</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1 cup chocolate chips</li>
</ul>Preheat oven to 325 degrees.<br />
Melt butter and chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the melted chocolate and butter mixture. Then add the rest of the dry ingredients. Finish up with mixing in the chocolate chips.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFM2Wy6xGF0PB3VVLvyEJg6PnUkU8I3tYXhLq7SSnP3Azafyz6zPzugvTqwkM6PKuOpJkPj_e4vTmyGRit1NP775Nb-Ur_fkSxK9Boy6lc_ksl8z6Ih2uRnafp2SD4h-jtCjHfAIiMTa4/s1600/DSC_0096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFM2Wy6xGF0PB3VVLvyEJg6PnUkU8I3tYXhLq7SSnP3Azafyz6zPzugvTqwkM6PKuOpJkPj_e4vTmyGRit1NP775Nb-Ur_fkSxK9Boy6lc_ksl8z6Ih2uRnafp2SD4h-jtCjHfAIiMTa4/s640/DSC_0096.JPG" width="424" /></a></div><br />
Chill batter for an hour. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the tops crack.<br />
Remove from oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HWRyUYkkqkLao45x5SACsoi0uT9TZdLe2uafwAWYFoYFvoAj3SVLvadrdKgdrQwPYAITCEVIlTM092e8XemiNbetzT1Qmo2Tvej23-p2TH5StX1quqo1diNGiahH9p4HAkuUbcoeiu0/s1600/DSC_0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5HWRyUYkkqkLao45x5SACsoi0uT9TZdLe2uafwAWYFoYFvoAj3SVLvadrdKgdrQwPYAITCEVIlTM092e8XemiNbetzT1Qmo2Tvej23-p2TH5StX1quqo1diNGiahH9p4HAkuUbcoeiu0/s640/DSC_0100.JPG" width="424" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4V10Letgf7Pqp2VZYzpsXqTpbCTtaPxvokcAe0Cjd8sbZBfUjNHqd90uGGjiyUmN-D_8X8-By7MLmYvS3WQnrgq-BC85QJNS2uPGP3RXvI_1hXHURNDsnh0G8yfjV-pKvYqri5XKgrg/s1600/DSC_0111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4V10Letgf7Pqp2VZYzpsXqTpbCTtaPxvokcAe0Cjd8sbZBfUjNHqd90uGGjiyUmN-D_8X8-By7MLmYvS3WQnrgq-BC85QJNS2uPGP3RXvI_1hXHURNDsnh0G8yfjV-pKvYqri5XKgrg/s640/DSC_0111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Amandahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00711057522034495715noreply@blogger.com0