tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5631911793271644412024-03-15T21:09:12.051-04:00Homemade By HolmanJenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.comBlogger298125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-20103680388951455362013-08-02T15:01:00.001-04:002013-08-02T15:01:59.626-04:00Picture Frame Moldings and a Kitchen and Dining MakeoverOne easy way to add some architectural detail and interest to a house that might be a bit dated or a bit "builder's grade" is with molding and wainscoting. <br />
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When we moved into our house, every single room on the first floor was a yellow / peach color. Although the kitchen and dining room had been remodeled only five years earlier, there was no contrast. The cabinets were a light maple color, the backsplash tile was a Harlequin pattern of light and dark beige, the floors were a light maple Pergo, the curtains were beige and brown, the fridge was almond. The existing baseboards and trim were an off-white that was very close to the wall color. Everything just ran together. <br />
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One of the changes we made to the house early on was to paint the kitchen and dining room. We took painting one step further though and decided to add some detail and contrast by adding picture frame wainscoting in crisp white as well. The wall color above the molding is Valspar Voyage - it's a bluish gray that really brought some much needed contrast to our kitchen and dining room and toned down the yellowness of our cabinets and floors. Depending on the lighting it can read very blue but in real life I think it's closer to the color in the bottom picture than above.<br />
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The paint and moldings made a huge difference, so did changing out the chandelier. The one in the first picture the original owners actually took with them and left us with an slightly less sparkly brass chandelier that I spray painted white and hung in my daughter's room upstairs - it's actually really cute there. In the dining room, it was not my thing. The new stainless refrigerator also made a huge difference compared to the old almond one. So sad that I'm taking that beauty with me to Texas. I'm also going to miss all that cabinetry... This kitchen has so much storage!<br />
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I'm a big fan of painting any and all trim a crisp bright white, it can make such a huge impact. We were lucky and we had smooth walls, if your walls are textured, you will probably want to do a piece of MDF before you put up the molding or it's not going to give you the same effect. In our next house, we'll be doing the MDF first.<br />
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We painted the walls under the chair rail, the base boards and the chair rail (as well as all the door and window frames) bright white. We used Valspar's semi-gloss in Ultra White. Paint the walls first so you can just roll everything on. It will be so much easier.<br />
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Next we bought some thin picture frame molding and started planning out our boxes. We adjusted the measurements to fit our space. We kept all the spaces in between the boxes, between the baseboards, chair rail and any windows or vents that we had to go around equal so that even if we varied the size of the boxes it didn't look random. It really helped it look much more consistent. Our spacing between the baseboards, chair rail and boxes and other fixtures was approximately three inches. We used a laser level to mark the horizontal lines with painters tape and then measured the length of the wall, figured out how many boxes we wanted and then add the space in between and divided the total remaining inches to figure out where to mark the vertical spaces. Just my advice, but it really helped us to draw it out on a piece of paper to do the math, it made it much easier to visualize.<br />
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We primed and painted all the trim pieces before putting them on the walls. Then once we had everything attached, we caulked any seams and filled any nail holes, then touched up the paint.<br />
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Don't skip the caulk - it will really help you get professional results. Without caulk, you see any imperfections in your walls (they aren't ever perfectly straight), any bad miter cuts you might make, etc. We like to use the DAP paintable caulk to finish everything off. Just apply a thin bead, then smooth with your finger. Once the caulking and spackle are dry, lightly sand any necessary areas to smooth everything out and then touch up your paint. <br />
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<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-17000434055864020402013-07-26T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-26T06:00:11.759-04:00Madeleine's 1st Birthday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My youngest daughter, Madeleine, turned one at the end of May. How that's possible, I have no idea. It doesn't seem possible that she could be a year old and now she's almost 14 months old and I still have a hard time saying she's a toddler and not a baby!<br />
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For her first birthday, we planned a "cute as a button" celebration. Since we all know that 1st birthday parties are really for the parents anyway since one year olds don't really care what they do, I came up with this one early on. I found a button cake on Pinterest a long time ago -- probably sometime while I was pregnant with my first baby. I filed it away and thought nothing more of it until I was pregnant with Madeleine. Then I thought about using it for a baby shower but didn't have an opportunity to throw one and then I decided it would make a great theme for a birthday party as well. <br />
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The cakes are both traditional vanilla birthday cake - <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/11/classic-yellow-birthday-cake.html">you can find the recipe on this post,</a> but it's a slightly adapted recipe from the Magnolia Bakery cookbook.<br />
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This was a pretty light theme, we had cute as a button cookies, a button cake, and a few decorations but we also just had a great summer birthday party and let the kids play outside and tried not to go overboard on decorations and such.<br />
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For the main button cake, I covered it in homemade marshmallow fondant, and then made little button cutouts out of pink and yellow fondant to decorate the cake and add to the sugar cookies as well. Marshmallow fondant is really easy to make and simple to work with. <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/09/fondant-toy-story-birthday-cake.html">You can find my recipe as well as some tips on this post. </a> If you want another example, <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2013/03/aubreys-elmo-birthday-party.html">check out this post from Aubrey's 2nd birthday party for a look at her Sesame Street cake</a>.<br />
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For food, we did a self-serve burger bar and grilled up beef and turkey burgers and offered tons of choices for condiments. We had the standard ketchup, mustard, pickles, and cheese but also offered more fun toppings like chipotle mayo, sriracha sauce, jalepenos and banana peppers, grilled pineapple, and crispy bacon.<br />
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We had a variety of chips and dips - a hot and spicy corn dip, hummus and crackers, and guacamole, because we don't have parties without guacamole. We had a vegetable platter and fruit salad as well.<br />
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For desserts, we had cookies and cake and homemade vanilla ice cream. The cookies are my normal sugar cookie recipe - these are so easy to make and you can make the cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it to save time for the party. You can also bake the cookies in advance and freeze if you prefer but I would recommend waiting to frost and decorate until closer to party time. I always like to do mine within a day or two of the party and then store between layers of parchment paper once the royal icing is completely dry (overnight) in an airtight container. <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/12/sugar-cookies-for-christmas.html">You can find the recipe in this post.</a><br />
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Of course, I made Madeleine her own smash cake. She had some fun getting into the icing and cake but wanted nothing to do with the cold ice cream. A few weeks later she tried it again though and decided it was pretty good stuff so rest assured, she's a normal kid! For the smash cake, fondant isn't really practical. It's too hard for the little ones to get through so I always stick with a simple buttercream icing. I also tend to put it on pretty thin so it's not quite as gooey for them. Also make sure you don't decorate with anything that could be a choking hazard. I used the large thin candy wafers on this one. They basically dissolve in your mouth and break up really easily.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thumbs up for cake! </span></div>
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Happy birthday baby girl - I can't believe you're already a toddler. The first year was so much fun and the days just keep getting better. You and your sister are the best of friends and you are the sweetest little girl. I'm so thankful everyday to be blessed with two beautiful, happy, healthy baby girls. I love you with all my heart sweet birthday girl!<br />
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Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-41353447743221299592013-07-24T06:00:00.000-04:002013-07-24T06:00:00.902-04:00Master Bathroom RemodelContinuing with our home remodel tour, probably the most dramatic change we've made to the house is our master bathroom. This one was a total demolition. The only thing we kept in the entire space was the toilet and door. The rest of it wasn't salvageable. <br />
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To rid the bathroom of the 1970's, it took a bit more time and money than most of projects have been. This has definitely been our biggest undertaking to date and I think it took us about 8 weeks from start to finish, although during some of that time, there wasn't any progress being made since we were waiting on our contractor and then waiting on the custom counter top to be manufactured. Because we changed our minds a couple of times throughout the process on the plan, we didn't build in as much lead time as we should have for some of the custom items. Just remember that in remodeling, "custom" equals more time and more money!<br />
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Our bathroom was set up with the toilet and shower "cave" in one small room and a vanity with a huge mirror up the ceiling in an alcove of the bedroom instead of behind closed doors, complete with carpet and giant swagged pendant lights, one of which didn't even work. On the other side of the vanity was another door leading to the walk in closet, which we also updated to make it much more functional.<br />
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Taking the bathroom down to the studs and subfloor, we brought in a contractor to do the heavy lifting on this one. We didn't want to experiment with major plumbing work and we needed to flip flop the vanity and shower so we could make room for a bathtub and a double vanity. We ended up doing a deep soaking tub with a glass tile shower surround and an L-shaped vanity to maximize space. Because we don't have any windows, we went with white marble floors and vanity top to keep it light. We were able to find a contractor who was willing to let us do what we were able to ourselves to help us keep the costs down. He did the new wiring and plumbing, in addition to framing out the new wall and door frame (we had to move it over about 6" in order to have enough room for the vanity) and taped and mudded the drywall. We did the demo, installed the cabinets and counter top, hung the drywall, tiled the floor and shower, painted, installed lighting and plumbing fixtures and reinstalled/replaced all the trim and doors.</div>
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We worked with the designer at Lowe's to help us come up with the L-shape vanity and bathroom layout. We were initially going to just do a straight double vanity and squeeze in double sinks in the same place as the original vanity and put the shower and tub where the long part of the L-shape vanity was, but we wanted a frameless glass shower door around the tub and shower to keep it from feeling like a cave when you came through the door and that custom job was way out of our price range. We considered a few other options, a half wall with a window of sorts, glass block, etc and we just didn't really like any of the options. Unless we scrapped the tub addition, one of the major must-haves for this remodel, it just wouldn't work without moving plumbing. When the Lowe's designer suggested the L-shaped vanity, something we hadn't really seen before, we were quickly sold on the idea. Not only did we gain more storage and counter space but it made the bathroom feel much more open.</div>
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The cabinets are semi-custom from Lowe's - we used the Insignia line and ordered the Crest door style which is a very clean Shaker style cabinet in the Java color. They are a rich dark brown, although they look almost black in these photos. We added hardware in chrome to coordinate with the faucets. The doors and frames are solid wood construction and you can order many different configurations. We did two 30" base cabinets and a 12" drawer bank and needed 2 3" filler pieces to form the corner. That does mean that there is nothing in the corner, it would have been great if we could have utilized that space, but we couldn't find an option for a corner bathroom cabinet without having someone build the entire unit from scratch which would have likely been much more expensive. We had the counter top made to our measurements including choosing sink placement and style and materials and ordered from Marble Arch through Lowes. We did end up paying more for the L-shape counter than we would have for the same amount of linear feet of counter in a straight run but it was worth it for us to maximize the space in the bathroom.<br />
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We could have gone back to the glass shower door idea at this point but that was still a stretch for our budget, especially now that we had the additional cost of a plumber and electrician added to the remodel. We ended up having to move the floor drain, run new lines for the sinks, and put in plumbing in the new wall for the shower and tub. We chose glass tile on the shower surround and chrome fixtures to add more shine and a little color to the room. But just in case you like it, let me warn you how much of a pain it is to install glass mosaic tiles... big tiles are so much easier. Although the tiles come on 12x12 sheets of 1" square tiles, we found them quite difficult to work with since they slid around on the mesh backing. Maybe it was just the particular brand of tile, but we had a difficult time keeping the rows straight. Next time, I'm planning to use my other favorite, subway tile. </div>
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I love porcelain and chrome fixtures and lots of white in a bathroom so the solid white counter tops and white ceramic tile floors were an easy choice. The floor tiles are 18x18 white ceramic with gray marbling that looks very much like Carrara marble without the price tag, I believe these were somewhere in the $5 per square foot range. I believe <a href="http://www.tileshop.com/product/productdetail.aspx?familyID=162&recordID=5069197">this is the same tile</a>, if it's not the exact same, it's very close. The white tile and counter tops really make the room feel brighter and larger since there is no window, we didn't want it to seem dark by using dark floors as well. To finish off the bathroom, we painted the walls a deep gray color - Silver Charm by Valspar and added fresh white trim. <br />
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For the final touches, we added a chrome curved shower pole, definitely not going back to a straight curtain pole in the future, it's amazing how much bigger the shower feels with that extra bit of space. The shower curtain is from Target and is no longer available. If I was doing it again, I would definitely buy an extra long curtain since I don't love where this one hits the tub, it's about 6" too short. The faucets are all from <a href="http://overstock.com/">Overstock.com</a> and the light fixtures were from <a href="http://www.lowes.com/">Lowes</a> and we bought the shades separately. The frameless mirrors are from the Home Depot. I originally wanted the mirrors that stand off the wall, <a href="http://www.potterybarn.com/products/kensington-mirror/?pkey=cbath-mirrors-wall-cabinets&">like these from Pottery Barn</a>, but in the end, we wanted something a little bit more budget friendly and opted to save about $300. Our plan was to frame them out down the road to match the cabinets if we changed our minds but so far, we really like them. <br />
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We didn't do much for accessories in here. I added a little homemade art over the toilet. I started by downloading a printable image of Kentucky set on gray and white stripes from <a href="http://pinterest.com/homemadeholman/boards/">Pinterest</a> and dropping a heart on Louisville in <a href="http://www.picmonkey.com/">PicMonkey</a> and printing it in poster size and framing it with an Ikea Ribba frame. We picked up the chrome wire baskets at Target and stacked them, rolled up some hand towels and use them for storing our "prettier" bathroom items, including a couple of old blue mason jars that I found in my grandpa's basement and filled with q-tips and cotton balls. Everything else gets stashed in the vanity cabinets. I've had that blue sea glass vase for ever and stole it from the living room to add a little more height to the counter. I still think we needed something else in that corner but we never figured out what to put there. I think if we would have stayed in this house longer, I probably would have eventually ordered the corner hutch from our cabinet maker to add a bit more storage and better utilize that space. The towels we already owned but they are from <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/">Bed, Bath and Beyond</a>.</div>
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Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-2163777029014203012013-07-23T07:00:00.000-04:002013-07-23T07:00:00.851-04:00Madeleine's Nursery MakeoverAnother classic 70's room, this one soon became our youngest daughter, Madeleine's, nursery. Her room is the smallest bedroom upstairs but the updates made it feel a lot bigger than it was before. It started out covered in some great wallpaper, in fact two different wallpaper patterns, airplanes on two walls and green paper paneling on the other two walls. The addition of green trim and doors really made for an ugly room. As an added bonus, under that layer of wallpaper was some additional green paint and a lovely pink tulip wallpaper border, just in case the first layer wasn't enough. The dresser that you see in the picture was left in the basement, along with a bedframe that was painted to match. I really liked the simple lines of the dresser and it was still in good condition, although ugly, so I decided to refinish it to match the cherry crib we picked out. Looking back at these before pictures, it's hard to believe it's the same room.<br />
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We tried several different methods removing the layers of wallpaper and we had the best luck with a combination of a steamer and a wide putty knife to help scrape the stubborn spots. If one of us used the steamer and the other closely followed to peel the paper immediately, it came off pretty well. The border actually took us about the same amount of time to remove as all of the airplane and paneling wall paper because they must have used a much stronger glue. The airplane wallpaper was pretty heavy and came off in pretty good size pieces. Thankfully we were able to get it down without too many issues and it didn't leave a lot of damage to the walls. What spots we did have, we patched with a little spackle, smoothed, and sanded before painting.<br />
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While the renovation took a lot of time, it really didn't take a lot of materials - a couple gallons of paint, a new ceiling fan (which we already had from another room in the house), a new organization system to make the closet more functional and some furniture and it has become a great nursery for our little girl.<br />
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Luckily, the hardwood floors were in great condition so that was a good starting point for us. We painted the walls a neutral gray and that really lightened everything up. Repainting all the trim and doors to white makes such a huge impact. I made the curtain panel out of some pink damask remnant fabric that I picked up on clearance for $5 by adding a simple hem all the way around and a rod pocket at the top. </div>
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Her bedding is a combination of several different pieces. We went with solid pink crib sheets. A super soft minky baby bumper (which we took out when she was little and used a breathable bumper in it's place due to the risk of soft, fabric bumpers) from <a href="http://www.carters.com/null/Super-Soft-Dot-Crib-Bumper/789887501465,default,pd.html?cgid=carters-baby-girl-bedding-crib-bumpers-dust-ruffles&start=">Carters</a>. </div>
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The striped crib skirt was a last minute find from the Pottery Barn Kids clearance section, I was originally going to make one but a) I'm not really that good with a sewing machine and b) the fabric required to make the ruffled skirt I wanted was going to cost as much as the ruffled PBK ones that I was trying to avoid buying, so when I found this cute simple one for $14.99, I jumped on the deal, it's from the Sophie collection. </div>
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The quilt and pillow are from the <a href="http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/9668880/?catalogId=95&bnrid=3518538&cm_ven=Google_PLA&cm_cat=Sale&cm_pla=Baby_Bedding_Sale&cm_ite=Vienna_Elephant_Nursery_Bumper_Bedding_Set&kpid=9668880&srccode=cii_17588969&cpncode=33-158470735-2">Pottery Barn Kids Vienna</a> nursery collection. The rocking chair and ottoman are from Babies R' Us and have been discontinued but they do have a <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11344541">lighter grey similar rocker</a> available currently. The grey rug is a solid grey carpet remnant rug that we found at Lowe's I believe. The lamp base and shade are both from Target and the table is from a set of nesting tables that we've had forever that I painted white.</div>
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The "M" on the wall is a simple wooden letter that I ordered from Craftcuts - they sell all different sizes and fonts - and then hotglued buttons all over. It took me until her first birthday party to actually get it decorated, I may have just hung it unfinished on the wall for the entire first year until we threw a "Cute as a Button" birthday party and I borrowed it for decor to hang with on the wall in the kitchen. I just bought a bag of random sized buttons at Hobby Lobby for around $5 and glued them on in layers.</div>
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The shelves were prefinished boards from Lowe's along with brackets sold in the closet/organizing section and all the picture frames are Ribba frames from Ikea. The elephant painting on canvas I painted at Uptown Art and the elephant print with the balloon is from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/trafalgarssquare">TrafalgarSquare on Etsy</a>. All the photos are by <a href="http://www.dedeholmanphotography.com/">Dede Holman Photography.</a> The large elephant stuffed animal is from Pottery Barn Kids a while back as well. The mobile is from Ikea, the pink organizing basket on the shelf is from Babies R' Us, and the picture frame and stuffed bear were both gifts so I'm not sure on sources for those. </div>
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The dresser was refinished by stripping and sanding off all the original paint and then we finished it with a natural walnut stain that included poly. I added a little cherry stain to the walnut to give it a bit more red tone when I was trying to match the crib. I ended up putting on four coats of stain and it's a pretty good match. I probably could have done one more but like most projects, I ran out of time and patience. We added some glass knobs from Lowe's and I think it turned out perfectly. It's a perfect size for a nursery. The changing pad cover is from Munchkin at Target. We added the screw at the back of the dresser to secure the changing pad to the top of the dresser.</div>
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Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-78477993852960505402013-07-22T09:55:00.000-04:002013-07-22T11:09:31.680-04:00Easy Striped Half BathHello... anyone still out there... This year has been a bit of a whirlwind. Not that it's that much of a change from normal as I seem to always be in the middle of something. But do to some pretty life changing events, we'll be busier than usual again for a couple of months. After only a brief two years in our current home we are moving once again, this time a little further down the road to Texas! It's been a long time coming so we were incredibly excited when we were able to get new jobs and make it happen. Before we leave this house though, I want to share some of the remodels that we have done. We have put a lot of time and effort into transforming our 70's era house and looking back at these pictures really makes that apparent. <br />
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Up first, the half bath on the main floor. Since our house is about 40 years old, the bathroom was a typical small tile floor but also came with the added bonus of really bad sconces, mirror and a vanity with several coats of paint and even some "bars" spanning from half wall to ceiling to block the toilet from view. We found some great wallpaper that had been painted over as well.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">We pulled everything out, took a sledge hammer to the tile floor and started from scratch. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Adding some wide gray and white stripes and dark gray floor tiles modernized the room and we took out the half wall and vanity to replace it with a pedestal sink to make it seem much bigger. Because we didn't have to move any electric or plumbing, it went pretty smoothly and was also a cost effective renovation at only a few hundred dollars worth of materials.</span><br />
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My favorite part of this room are the wide stripes, I really want to do them again. Not something that my husband will be thrilled to hear I'm sure seeing as he's the one that did the majority of the painting. One of the perks of being pregnant during a remodel. <br />
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The key to painting stripes for us has been this foolproof method. First paint the base wall color. Then tape off the stripes. Once the tape is up, paint the same base color over the inside edge (i.e. the edge that will become the stripe color) with the BASE color. This will ensure that any bleeding that will happen will be with the base color and therefore won't show. After that dries, then paint the stripe color. After the second coat, if needed, remove the tape while the paint is still wet. Perfect stripes!<br />
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Sources: </div>
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Floor Tile -<a href="http://www.tileshop.com/index.aspx"> The Tile Shop</a></div>
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Sconces - Portfolio brand - no longer sold -<a href="http://www.lowes.com/"> Lowes</a></div>
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Pedestal Sink - American standard - <a href="http://www.lowes.com/">Lowes</a></div>
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Faucet - <a href="http://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Heritage-Chrome-4-inch-Center-Bathroom-Faucet/5532968/product.html?refccid=3IDWWVXBHG327HCDWJOIWQIRQI&searchidx=12"> similar - Overstock.com</a></div>
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Towel Bars, Toilet Paper Holder - <a href="http://www.lowes.com/">Lowes</a></div>
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Soap Dispenser - Target</div>
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Towels - Monogrammed - <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/product.asp?SKU=124769&RN=275&">Bed Bath & Beyond</a></div>
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Rug - Target</div>
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<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-87437910311829610462013-06-15T22:48:00.001-04:002013-07-23T21:07:49.314-04:00A Book Baby ShowerMy little sister is having her first baby - literally any day now - and we had an absolutely adorable shower for her a couple of months ago. Yes, it was in April, and I'm just now posting about it - it happens. <br />
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I started out on Pinterest to find some ideas and quickly had about four different themes planned when I realized that they all revolved around children's books. Reading with my kids is one of my favorite moments of the day and they both love books. I hope that Nikki will enjoy reading with baby Colton just as much and we wanted to get her library started for him.<br />
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I love how this shower turned out and was so happy to get to throw it -- now I just can't wait to meet baby Colton!!<br />
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I took a few shortcuts with the food on this shower since I was travelling by plane to get there. We ordered the cake from a bakery and everything on the menu was quick and easy to prepare.<br />
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For the invitations, I just put together some images of the characters in several of the books we were using. I made coordinating signs for each of the dishes on the menu as well to tie the food into the book theme. <br />
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The menu and book pairings included:<br />
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Sam I Am's Green Deviled Eggs - complete with the egg whites dyed green instead of the egg yolks - based on a Pinterest tutorial I <a href="http://realmomkitchen.com/10823/easter-deviled-eggs/">found here</a>, you can dye eggs any color you want and it doesn't affect the flavor at all.<br />
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Guess How Much I Love You Veggies and Hummus - it was a stretch but it's "bunny food" and I love this book.<br />
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The Very Hungry Caterpillar's Fruit and Yogurt Dip<br />
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Where The Wild Things Are & Max's Turkey "Muenster" Sandwiches - a simple sandwich with shaved turkey breast, muenster cheese, baby spinach and mustard.<br />
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Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs - with a quick chili sauce and grape jelly sauced meatball.<br />
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If You Give a Mouse a Snickerdoodle - we subbed in Snickerdoodles since they are my sister's favorite.<br />
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Jamberry Pies - if you've never heard of the book Jamberry you should look it up, such a cute rhyming story. I made mini cherry, lemon and apple pies in a muffin tin taking some help from refrigerated pie crust for this one.<br />
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And from Giraffe's Cant Dance, Gerald's (non-alcoholic of course) Jungle Juice. <br />
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We also used Good Night Moon as a guest book, asking guests to leave a message for Mom or baby.<br />
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I made a simple diaper cake and added signs from the book Little Blue Truck and found some animal baby toys to add in for extra fun.<br />
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One of the best things about the baby shower was the onesie decorating station we set up outside in lieu of playing traditional shower games. We had so much fun decorating onesies with fabric paint and stencils and iron-on transfers and they turned out so cute!<br />
<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-56175116518461510862013-03-24T21:18:00.000-04:002013-03-24T21:18:02.246-04:00Blueberry Lemon Yogurt Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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If you've been on Pinterest lately you may have seen a post for strawberry yogurt cake. I came across it one day and thought it looked fantastic so I repinned it. Of course, I didn't bother to go to the actual link right then - I hate when I do that - so I didn't realize the pin was no good and went nowhere. Well when I went back to make it and realized this, I did a little searching and put together a couple of different recipes to make up this one.<br />
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I made two different varieties, blueberry and strawberry and added lemon to both. I also decided to bake this as a loaf cake instead of a bundt cake like the inspiration. This recipe will make one 8x4" loaf or 2 smaller loaf cakes. You could also convert this to muffins if you prefer and get 12-15 muffins, make sure to adjust the baking time, I would suggest about 20 minutes. If you want to do both flavors, bake it in smaller pans or double the recipe, that's what I did to yield this much cake.<br />
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A couple of key tips - don't skip the lemon syrup step. This really makes the lemon flavor soak in and makes a great crust for the cake. Also make sure to let the cake cool completely before adding the glaze or it will just melt right in. You can use fresh or frozen fruit in this recipe. I used fresh because it was on sale and looked good at the store. If you want to use frozen, use frozen blueberries straight from the freezer. If you are using strawberries, I like to put mine in a strainer over a large bowl and let the water drain out of them first so they don't make your cake too wet.<br />
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Blueberry (or Strawberry) Lemon Yogurt Cake<br />
Recipe adapted from several sources<br />
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<i>Cake:</i><br />
1 cup plain Greek yogurt<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
3 eggs<br />
Zest of 1 lemon<br />
1/2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil<br />
1 1/2 cups flour<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 1/2 cups blueberries or strawberries (roughly chopped)<br />
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<i>Syrup:</i><br />
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
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<i>Glaze:</i><br />
1 cup powdered sugar<br />
Approximately 2 T lemon juice<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray loaf pan(s) with baking spray or butter and flour. <br />
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In a large mixing bowl, whisk together yogurt, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and oil until well combined. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly incorporated. Finally gently fold in blueberries or strawberries. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for approximately 50 minutes to one hour until top is golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.<br />
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Cool approximately 10 minutes in pan and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Set wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet before adding syrup and glaze. While the cake begins to cool, make the lemon syrup. Combine sugar and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until dissolved, cook about 2-3 more minutes until it begins to thicken slightly. Use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes in the top of the cake. You don't want the cake to be right out of the oven at this point, but it should still be warm. Using a pastry brush or large spoon, brush/ladle syrup over the cake. Let the syrup soak in and then brush one more time. Let the cake cool completely.<br />
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Prepare the glaze by adding the powdered sugar to a mixing bowl. Whisk in a small amount of the lemon juice, add more lemon juice until the glaze reaches the consistency of a thick caramel sauce. You want it pourable but not thin. Pour/drizzle the glaze over the cake and let it harden for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-62580377515828329632013-03-17T21:01:00.000-04:002013-03-17T21:02:11.941-04:00Spiced Brown Sugar Shamrock Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I hope you enjoyed your St. Patrick's Day! Times have changed a bit for us from green beers to green cookies for daycare parties but when your two year old is super excited about "my cookies" these still make it a great day. These shamrock cookies are Spiced Brown Sugar Cookies with a simple buttercream frosting. <br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">Spiced Brown Sugar Cookies</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20.796875px;"><a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/12/spiced-brown-sugar-christmas-cookies.html">Originally posted here</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: x-small;">Yields approximately 2 dozen large cookies</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; line-height: 20.796875px;" /></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">3 cups all purpose flour</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">2 tsp baking powder</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">3/4 tsp cinnamon</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">1/4 tsp ginger</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">1/4 tsp nutmeg</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">1/8 tsp. allspice</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">1/2 tsp salt</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">1/2 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">1 large egg</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract</span><br />
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Powdered sugar for rolling<br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">Combine flour, baking powder, and spices in a large bowl and whisk to combine. In a mixing bowl, cream sugar, brown sugar and butter on medium speed until light and fluffy, about three minutes. Add egg and vanilla and beat until well incorporated. Slowly add flour mixture, mixing on low speed. The dough will be very stiff. Lay out a large sheet of plastic wrap and turn dough out on to plastic. Form into a disk and wrap tightly. Chill approximately one hour. </span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.796875px;">Remove dough from refrigerator and let stand five to ten minutes at room temperature. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or Silpats. Generously sprinkle powdered sugar over work area and rolling pin. Roll dough to about 1/4" - 1/2" thick and cut into desired shapes. Transfer to prepared pans and bake about 9-12 minutes. Cookies shouldn't really brown but will firm up. Remove from the oven, let stand about one minute on the baking sheet and then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. When completely cool, frost as desired.</span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-27395260601511616282013-03-10T22:05:00.002-04:002013-07-23T21:10:28.991-04:00Aubrey's Elmo Birthday PartyMy daughter Aubrey turned two in February. I still can't believe I have a two year old. She's grown up so much and changed so fast in these past few months. Her vocabulary has exploded and she's becoming a little parrot. <br />
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Although it took her a while to start saying a lot of the words she knew, one that she's had down for a long long time is "Elmo". The red furry monster is definitely a favorite for her. Although Sesame Street is now vying for the top TV request with "the Mouse" I think it's safe to say Elmo will be a favorite for a while. When it came time to think about a theme for Aubrey's second birthday, there was no question that Elmo and friends would be perfect. <br />
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I started with an invitation that my sister, Nikki of<a href="http://doodledogadvertising.com/"> Doodle Dog Advertising</a> designed for me. From there Pinterest and Party City helped me out with a few ideas. My friend Sarah of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/SarahsShirts">Sarah's Shirts</a> made Aubrey's adorable Elmo shirt. I just love how it turned out and it's one of her favorites in her closet.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elmo invitations from Doodle Dog Advertising</td></tr>
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Aubrey was in awe when she came downstairs the morning of the party to see that Elmo was everywhere. We had hung a great big mural of Sesame Street characters on the wall and Aubrey loved them. I made Elmo and Cookie Monster cookies that she loved, all we heard was "cookie pleeeeease mama." I haven't worked with fondant in a long time and need to practice a bit more, I ran out of time towards the end on the cake but I think it turned out pretty cute although I would have done a few things differently next time. The fruit and vegetable trays were one of my favorite ideas I found on Pinterest, they turned out so cute! We made thank you bags for the kiddos... I just picked up some small red paper bags and filled them with some Sesame Street bubbles, a character medal, some Elmo tattoos, a Memory game, and some candy. I printed out thank you labels on the Sesame Street sign and folded them over the tops of the bags to close them.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elmo and Cookie Monster Cookies</td></tr>
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<a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/12/sugar-cookies-for-christmas.html">Sugar cookie recipes can be found here</a> - I used royal icing to decorate these in layers. I drew the eyeballs on with an edible marker. Although they take a bit of time, I love decorating cookies with royal icing. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sesame Street Cake</td></tr>
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I baked<a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/11/classic-yellow-birthday-cake.html"> this cake, it's one of my favorites as it's a very traditional yellow cake recipe</a>. I think it's perfect for a kid's party, nothing fancy but it's delicious and it stays so moist. I brush the layers with a simple syrup before frosting to lock in moisture and use vanilla bean paste instead of extract to add even more flavor. I filled it with a simple vanilla buttercream and used the same to crumb coat and frost the outside before covering it with fondant. The fondant is homemade marshmallow fondant, <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/09/fondant-toy-story-birthday-cake.html">see this post for the recipe and tips</a>. While it's a little more work, it tastes so much better than the storebought kind.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oscar and Elmo vegetable and fruit platters</td></tr>
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Oscar is made crispy kale chips, black olives for a mouth, carrots for a nose, and sliced portabello mushrooms for eyebrows. Some garlic hummus in small plastic cups make up his eyes. Elmo's face is made up of sliced strawberries. Sliced purple grapes make his wide mouth and peeled orange slices are his nose. His eyes are cups filled with marshmallow cream cheese fruit dip.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UyXhpnu4OvY/UT0zgn3yHtI/AAAAAAAAB-g/dZ2Y3WcvWnw/s1600/0693916654014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UyXhpnu4OvY/UT0zgn3yHtI/AAAAAAAAB-g/dZ2Y3WcvWnw/s640/0693916654014.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opening presents - she had so much fun with it this year!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x6fCBlTIv6E/UT0zhYacNWI/AAAAAAAAB-0/kwnpcS19eZ4/s1600/IMG951015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x6fCBlTIv6E/UT0zhYacNWI/AAAAAAAAB-0/kwnpcS19eZ4/s400/IMG951015.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pin the Nose on Elmo - stickers are lots of fun for Aubrey and her best buddy Hannah</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gJF92BCpQF8/UT0zjI4wKpI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/lN_we2O89YI/s1600/IMG957036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gJF92BCpQF8/UT0zjI4wKpI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/lN_we2O89YI/s400/IMG957036.jpg" width="297" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O2xvhwuwGSI/UT0ziLbn5FI/AAAAAAAAB-8/-tMuh54LVQ8/s1600/IMG951368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O2xvhwuwGSI/UT0ziLbn5FI/AAAAAAAAB-8/-tMuh54LVQ8/s400/IMG951368.jpg" width="297" /></a><br />
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Aubrey and Madeleine loved the huge "scene setter" I picked up from Party City. It's actually about 5' by 5' or something huge so it was fun for the girls to see the great big characters in their living room. Definitely worth the $6 price tag at Party City - I can't believe how nice this was for the cheap price tag.<br />
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<div>
We had so much fun celebrating with so many friends and family members. Thank you so much to all of you who came to celebrate my baby girl turning two! <br />
<br />
Happy birthday Aubrey! I can't believe how much you have grown and changed over the past two years. You continue to amaze me every day with how much goes through your curious little mind. You are constantly learning and sharing new things. While these past two years have flown by, it also seems like you've been a part of my life forever. I love you little girl!</div>
</div>
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-17551812776114059462013-03-04T21:30:00.000-05:002013-03-04T21:30:01.869-05:00Cinnamon Roll Pancakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K5Ri33mi2Xw/UTVW0bn94vI/AAAAAAAAB9k/oL-gpHeF_dw/s1600/0647600945008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K5Ri33mi2Xw/UTVW0bn94vI/AAAAAAAAB9k/oL-gpHeF_dw/s400/0647600945008.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've only recently started to really appreciate breakfast, I think mostly because it's more fun when your two year old requests "pan-caks" every weekend. While she gets her share of the Bisquick variety, every once in a while I decide to make some that are a little fancier than the standard. Making pancakes from scratch really isn't any harder than the box mix, but I'll admit these have a few more steps. But they are certainly fun for special occasions. And they are definitely delicious. I would go so far as to say they might be a tie for the best pancakes I've ever had.<br />
<br />
A couple of tips you should read before you begin:<br />
<ul>
<li>Make the cinnamon swirl mixture and the frosting before you start cooking, it will go fast once you put the batter on the griddle. Plus, letting the mixture sit for a few minutes while you make the batter allows it to thicken slightly which will make it easier to work with.</li>
<li>Keep your pan on medium-low to medium, they might take an extra minute to cook but you don't want them to burn.</li>
<li>Make the cinnamon swirl mixture a bit on the thick side, like thick maple syrup. A squeeze bottle works perfectly for this, but you can use a ziploc if you don't have one.</li>
<li>Wait until you see bubbles all around the edges of pancakes, then add the swirl.</li>
<li>When you swirl the cinnamon mixture, don't get too close to the edge or it will bubble out of the pancake.</li>
<li>Don't skip the glaze, it really delivers the cinnamon roll flavor.</li>
<li>Extra pancakes are perfect to pop in the freezer - put them in a freezer ziploc and then just pop in the toaster to reheat.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-04F0QtMym6o/UTVWxBMoBoI/AAAAAAAAB9c/kKerR4RbEiQ/s1600/0647600943008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-04F0QtMym6o/UTVWxBMoBoI/AAAAAAAAB9c/kKerR4RbEiQ/s400/0647600943008.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes<br />
Recipe slightly adapted from <a href="http://www.recipegirl.com/2011/03/01/cinnamon-roll-pancakes/">RecipeGirl</a><br />
<br />
<em>Cinnamon Swirl:</em><br />
6 T unsalted butter, melted<br />
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
<br />
<em>Cream Cheese Glaze:</em><br />
4 T unsalted butter, room temperature<br />
3 ounces cream cheese, room temperature<br />
3/4 - 1 cup powdered sugar<br />
1/2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 T milk<br />
<br />
<em>Pancakes:</em><br />
2 cups all purpose flour<br />
4 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
2 cups milk (I've used either skim or 2% without issues)<br />
2 large eggs<br />
2 T canola oil<br />
<br />
Start by mixing the melted butter, brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Transfer to a squeeze bottle or ziploc baggie and set aside to thicken.<br />
<br />
Next make the glaze, beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add 3/4 cup powdered sugar, vanilla extract and milk and beat until light and creamy. Add additional powdered sugar if the mixture is too thin. Set aside until ready to serve.<br />
<br />
Heat a large nonstick griddle over medium-low to medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to the pan and pour out approximately 1/4 - 1/3 cup pancake mix, giving them plenty of room to spread a bit so it's easier to flip. Once bubbles begin to form around the tops of the pancakes, add a thick swirl of the cinnamon mixture. Once the bubbles begin to pop, quickly flip each pancake. Cook until golden brown. It should take about 2-3 minutes per side to cook. Stack and top with cream cheese glaze and serve. This recipe should yield approximately 16 4-inch pancakes. <br />
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-52165778772444353332013-01-03T10:31:00.000-05:002013-01-03T10:31:12.907-05:00Eggnog Crumb Cake<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F9W9WWg-3eQ/UOWjmyNvD2I/AAAAAAAAB88/I2512ZU9Ay4/s1600/EggNog.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F9W9WWg-3eQ/UOWjmyNvD2I/AAAAAAAAB88/I2512ZU9Ay4/s640/EggNog.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Have some leftover eggnog from Christmas in your fridge? Forget about spiked drinks, make this cake. You didn't really want to start that January diet yet anyway. And you can't just throw it away, it's eggnog. Despite a few individual pieces, this cake comes together very quickly and easily. Don't skip the crumb topping - it gives it that NY-style coffee cake topping. I don't know about you, but I always fight for piece of coffee cake with the most crumb topping, it's my favorite part. The spiced rum glaze adds a bit of adult sophistication to this cake to take it to the next level. But if you are serving it to little ones, you can leave out the rum or substitute rum extract (at least I hear this is a viable option but not one I've tried myself).<br />
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This will make 2 regular loaf cakes or 4 mini cakes if you have the small loaf pans. I made two pans, one to take to a Christmas party with my in-laws and one for our wonderful neighbors across the street. You may have noticed the much improved pictures of this cake -- well my wonderful neighbor happens to be pretty good with her camera and sent me these fantastic shots. She does family pictures as well as promotional/product photography - check her out at <a href="http://www.willowtreephoto.com/">Willow Tree Photography</a> or visit her <a href="http://www.facebook.com/willowtreephoto?fref=ts">Facebook page</a>. I'm going to have to figure out how to work my camera one of these days so I can step up my game on my own pictures. <br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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Eggnog Crumb Cake with Spiced Rum Glaze<br />
Recipe adapted from <a href="http://www.culinaryconcoctionsbypeabody.com/2012/12/13/eggnog-ny-crumb-cake-with-spiced-rum-glaze/">Culinary Concoctions by Peabody</a><br />
<br />
<i>Cake:</i><br />
1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
2 large eggs<br />
2/3 cup Greek yogurt (I used vanilla because it's what I had but you could also use plain)<br />
1 1/3 cups eggnog<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
2 1/2 cups cake flour<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
<br />
<i>Crumb Topping:</i><br />
1/3 cup sugar<br />
1/3 cup brown sugar, firmly packed<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
3/4 tsp cinnamon<br />
1 3/4 cups cake flour<br />
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted<br />
<br />
<i>Glaze:</i><br />
2 T eggnog<br />
2 T spiced rum<br />
2 T unsalted butter, melted<br />
1 - 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar<br />
<br />
For the cake, preheat oven to 325 degrees and spray 2 regular loaf pans or 4 mini loaf pans with baking spray or butter and flour.<br />
<br />
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine butter and sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes on medium speed. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing until incorporated and then mix in yogurt. In a measuring cup, combine eggnog and vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine nutmeg, cinnamon, cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt and whisk or sift to mix. Alternate additions of 1/3 of the flour mixture with 1/2 of the eggnog mixture, mixing until each addition is just incorporated, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. <br />
<br />
Divide batter evenly among pans and set aside while you prepare the crumb topping.<br />
<br />
For the topping, combine sugar, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and cake flour in a mixing bowl. Pour in melted butter and stir with a fork, pastry cutter, or your hands until the mixture forms a crumbly topping. Evenly spread over prepared cake batter.<br />
<br />
Baking will take 30-35 minutes for 4 mini loaves and about 40-45 minutes for 2 regular loaves, the cake is done when a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. If necessary cover with foil if the topping starts to brown before the cake is set. <br />
<br />
Once cakes are removed from the oven, allow to cool fully before topping with the glaze. To make the glaze, whisk together eggnog, rum, and butter in a bowl. Slowly add powdered sugar, whisking until smooth. The glaze should be about the consistency of maple syrup when you pour it over the cakes.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-80890175453997361732012-12-24T14:37:00.000-05:002012-12-24T14:39:50.768-05:00Carrot Cake Pancakes for Christmas MorningTo begin with, Merry Christmas!!! I can't even believe that it's Christmas already, how did that happen, shouldn't it still be September or so? This year has absolutely flown by. But it's Christmas, which is one of my favorite times of the year. We are home with my parents in Iowa right now and since the house is full of family, we've been having some fancier than normal breakfasts.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8n-YzISISbU/UNiiwvwPnjI/AAAAAAAAB78/0yCJ0PI6XI8/s1600/0622844980008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8n-YzISISbU/UNiiwvwPnjI/AAAAAAAAB78/0yCJ0PI6XI8/s400/0622844980008.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photos by <a href="http://www.dedeholmanphotography.com/">Dede Holman Photography</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If you are in the mood to do the same for a special occasion, I totally recommend these pancakes. Oh-my-god-good. So delicious. The pancakes have a super moist carrot cake flavor and don't skip the cream cheese anglaise, it takes them to a whole new level. It's not overly sweet like a frosting but it's rich and creamy and a perfect addition.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gTN-wqi6Jc4/UNiumvoxHEI/AAAAAAAAB8M/IQTsoll36y8/s1600/carrotcakepancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gTN-wqi6Jc4/UNiumvoxHEI/AAAAAAAAB8M/IQTsoll36y8/s400/carrotcakepancakes.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excuse the Instagram Pic... no one wanted to wait for pictures</td></tr>
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I hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas and a great New Year!<br />
<br />
Carrot Cake Pancakes<br />
Adapted from Southern Living<br />
<br />
1 3/4 cups flour<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
2 cups buttermilk<br />
1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar<br />
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted<br />
2 large eggs<br />
2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
2 cups finely grated carrots<br />
<br />
Heat a nonstick griddle or skillet over medium heat and add a little oil or nonstick spray.<br />
<br />
Stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. Separately combine buttermilk, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Stir wet ingredients into dry until just combined. Don't over mix, batter should be lumpy. Fold in carrots. (You can also add golden raisins at this point or chopped pecans if you would like, I left out both but the original recipe included 1/2 cup of each.)<br />
<br />
Pour approximately 1/4 cup of batter into rounds on skillet and cook until bubbles appear all around the pancake, then flip and cook until golden brown. <br />
<br />
Cream Cheese Anglaise<br />
<br />
1 1/2 cups milk (I used 2%)<br />
4 oz cream cheese, softened (I used 1/3 less fat)<br />
1/3 cup sugar<br />
3 egg yolks<br />
1 tablespoon cornstarch<br />
1/8 tsp salt<br />
2 tablespoons butter<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
<br />
Combine milk, cream cheese, sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch in a blender or a large bowl and use an immersion blender to process until smooth. Heat mixture in a saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil, whisking regularly. Boil for approximately one minute, whisking constantly, mixture should thicken. Remove from heat and add butter and vanilla and whisk to combine. Pour over pancakes to serve.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-11608464942537004342012-11-19T21:27:00.000-05:002012-11-19T21:27:22.516-05:00Fresh Cranberry Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kyZKVbqQeCE/UKrpV1mmgCI/AAAAAAAAB7g/FMCJXtR0bLM/s1600/cranberry+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kyZKVbqQeCE/UKrpV1mmgCI/AAAAAAAAB7g/FMCJXtR0bLM/s400/cranberry+cake.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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What's on your Thanksgiving menu this year? I may have to go buy more cranberries so this cranberry cake can be a late addition to mine. For the most part, I'm sticking with classic recipes this year but adding in a few new items as well.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FoLAM47Mi34/TPUL1pvBtiI/AAAAAAAABs4/mXT8gT0I7Nw/s1600/turkey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FoLAM47Mi34/TPUL1pvBtiI/AAAAAAAABs4/mXT8gT0I7Nw/s400/turkey.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/11/cider-brined-roast-turkey-and-gravy.html">Cider Brined Turkey and Gravy</a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Mashed Potatoes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sweet Potato Casserole - I'm doing a cross between <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/11/sweet-potato-bake-healthier-way.html">this recipe</a> and a copycat Ruth's Chris Steakhouse version</div>
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Dressing with apples and cranberries</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.jasonandshawnda.com/foodiebride/archives/14001/">Broccoli Cheddar Quinoa</a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9HTXFozNyo/THMJRedSl0I/AAAAAAAABlE/XeMlIra9KSc/s1600/8-22-10+004.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s9HTXFozNyo/THMJRedSl0I/AAAAAAAABlE/XeMlIra9KSc/s400/8-22-10+004.1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/08/stove-top-mac-and-cheese.html">Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese</a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Cranberry Sauce</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/roasted-butternut-squash-salad-with-warm-cider-vinaigrette-recipe/index.html">Harvest Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tastykitchen.com/recipes/breads/crockpot-apple-butter-yeast-rolls/">Crock Pot Apple Butter Yeast Rolls</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Classic Pumpkin Pie</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://acozykitchen.com/salted-caramel-apple-pie/">Salted Caramel Apple Pie</a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnC7aloR4IY/TPblJ9JsAmI/AAAAAAAABtE/tD7vN2Vt0V0/s1600/pumpkin+roll2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnC7aloR4IY/TPblJ9JsAmI/AAAAAAAABtE/tD7vN2Vt0V0/s400/pumpkin+roll2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/12/pumpkin-roll.html">Pumpkin Roll</a></div>
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<br />
If you haven't nailed down your desserts yet, I've got a new one for you to try. This takes about 20 minutes of prep time, but with a stand mixer about half of that time is just running the mixer. It's so simple and likely the only thing you don't already have in the pantry are fresh cranberries. Take advantage of the cheap fresh berries in every grocery store and make this cake while they are in season. The tart cranberries are perfect with the sweetness of the cake and the light glaze. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this is a great finish to Thanksgiving dinner. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i9x6_2s7OPU/UKrpTo69oeI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/4ZDbE-7Dnxk/s1600/cranberry+cake.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i9x6_2s7OPU/UKrpTo69oeI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/4ZDbE-7Dnxk/s400/cranberry+cake.1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
Fresh Cranberry Cake<br />
<br />
<i>Cake:</i><br />
2 cups sugar<br />
3 eggs<br />
3/4 cup unsalted butter, slightly softened<br />
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/2 tsp almond extract<br />
1 T orange zest<br />
2 cups flour<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
2 1/2 cups cranberries<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Glaze:</i><br />
1 cup powdered sugar<br />
2-3 T milk<br />
1/2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 10" springform pan or 9"x13" baking pan with baking spray and set aside. <br />
<br />
Combine sugar and eggs in the bowl of a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl. Mix 6-8 minutes on medium speed until pale yellow and doubled in volume. Add in butter and extracts and zest and mix two more minutes. Add flour and cinnamon and stir until combined. Fold in cranberries. Transfer batter to prepared pan. If you are baking in a springform pan, put the pan on a cookie sheet and put in the oven. Bake approximately one hour (about 45 minutes in a 9"x13" pan). Cool completely and remove ring from pan. <br />
<br />
Put powdered sugar in a small bowl, add milk one tablespoon at a time, whisking until smooth. Add vanilla and drizzle over cake. <br />
<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-72607505726324521192012-10-27T09:00:00.000-04:002012-10-27T09:00:48.017-04:00Peach Spice Cake<br />
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So way back in August, I had a basket full of peaches fresh from the orchard that were tempting me from the counter. I had many plans for them initially, peach cobbler, peach kolaches, peach pie, etc. This peach spice cake wasn't on the list but as I was perusing a new cookbook that I picked up at The Lady and Sons restaurant in Savannah, GA while we were on vacation, I found a recipe for Fresh Pear Cake that sounded delicious. Paula Deen can generally be trusted for baked goods so I didn't hesitate for too long before deciding to make this. But not with pears and a bit of a doctored spice mixture - mostly because I'm not really a big pear fan and I really like ginger with peaches. I also subbed applesauce for oil because everyone knows Paula's recipes can usually stand to cut out a few calories. Yes peach season has passed... but you could sub apples for peaches and this would be delicious as well.<br />
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Peach Spice Cake<br />
Adapted from <i>The Lady and Sons: Just Desserts</i><br />
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<i>Cake:</i><br />
2 cups sugar<br />
3 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking soda<br />
1 1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp ginger<br />
1/4 tsp ground cloves<br />
1 tsp allspice<br />
1/2 cup vegetable oil<br />
1 cup unsweetened applesauce<br />
3 eggs<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
3 cups peeled, pitted, and diced peaches<br />
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<i>Glaze:</i><br />
2 oz cream cheese, softened<br />
2 T milk<br />
1 cup powdered sugar<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a bundt pan with baking spray or butter and flour. <br />
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Combine sugar, flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and allspice in a large bowl. Add the oil, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla and mix well. Gently fold in peaches. Pour mixture into pan and bake for approximately 1 - 1 1/4 hours until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool about ten minutes in the pan and then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely. <br />
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Before serving, combine cream cheese, milk and powdered sugar and whip in a mixing bowl to make a thick glaze. Pour over the cake. The glaze should coat a spoon but still run down the sides of the cake. <br />
Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-15925517205806946112012-10-16T21:55:00.000-04:002012-10-16T21:56:05.616-04:00Apple Cranberry Bars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-07IwMsYdtwc/UH4Pk0vauNI/AAAAAAAAB6k/I2v7AqgCL1k/s1600/Apple+Cranberry+Bars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-07IwMsYdtwc/UH4Pk0vauNI/AAAAAAAAB6k/I2v7AqgCL1k/s400/Apple+Cranberry+Bars.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It's fall! I'm so excited... I love the crisp fall air, a reason to wear boots and sweaters and apples! Apples are everywhere these days, and we went and picked tons of them so I've been making lots of apple things lately. I found this recipe one night while skimming through an old cookbook called Great Food Great Beer - it's actually a beer pairing book from Anheuser-Busch but it has some good recipes. Of course, this started out as an apple pecan date bar but I didn't have any dates or pecans and decided to double the apples and increased the citrus, etc... you know some minor modifications to basically just make a completely different dessert. The point however, is that these are absolutely delicious and take about 10 minutes to put together so go do it, you can thank me later.<br />
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Apple Cranberry Bars<br />
Adapted from Great Food Great Beer<br />
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2 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
2 cups sugar<br />
7 T unsalted butter, room temperature<br />
1 egg<br />
2 egg whites<br />
1/4 cup applesauce<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 cup dried cranberries (Craisins)<br />
3 large apples, chopped into small pieces<br />
1 T lime juice (you can use lemon if you prefer), plus 1 tsp zest<br />
1/2 - 3/4 cup powdered sugar<br />
1 T milk<br />
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees and butter a 13x9" baking dish. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt in a mixing bowl and set aside. <br />
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In another large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add egg and egg whites, one at a time, beating after each addition. Add applesauce and vanilla. Gradually add the flour mixture, stirring just until combined. Chop apples, you don't need to peel them but you can if you prefer. Toss with lime juice and zest and add to batter along with the cranberries. Stir gently to incorporate and transfer batter to prepared baking dish. <br />
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Bake about one hour until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The bars will puff up in the oven but settle a bit as they cool, becoming more dense. Cool completely.<br />
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Whisk together powdered sugar and milk to make a glaze. Drizzle over the pan and cut into pieces. If you can't wait until they are cool, don't worry they are perfect warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. <br />
<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-52428258116361104132012-08-01T11:55:00.000-04:002012-08-01T11:55:17.317-04:00Zucchini Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w9ulPCLe_og/UBlPtaUa2SI/AAAAAAAAB50/cdQJny6MVN0/s1600/Zucchini+Bread.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w9ulPCLe_og/UBlPtaUa2SI/AAAAAAAAB50/cdQJny6MVN0/s400/Zucchini+Bread.jpg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you planted squash in your garden this spring you probably have an abundance of zucchini right about now or if you're like me and thought about planting a garden, never got around to it, but got lucky enough to have your husband's coworker share her abundance of zucchini, go ahead and make this zucchini bread recipe. I've sung the praises of quick breads before (<a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/01/jalepeno-cheddar-bread.html">Jalapeno Cheddar Bread</a>, <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/07/pecan-streusel-topped-banana-bread.html">Pecan Streusel Topped Banana Bread</a>, or <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/04/lemon-poppy-seed-bread.html">Lemon Poppy Seed Bread</a>) but they are so easy! You can literally have this in the oven in 15 minutes. Can't do that if yeast is involved! <br />
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This makes a great treat for a mid afternoon snack, a quick breakfast, or even a light dessert served plain or with a dab of butter. It is slightly less of an indulgent with the oil replaced with unsweetened applesauce. You could also use whole wheat flour for half of the all purpose flour to make it even healthier but I didn't have any on hand. This recipe will make two loaves and they freeze very well so go ahead and make both even if you won't go through them in a few days. Or give one to the neighbors, or in my case, your zucchini supplier.<br />
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Zucchini Bread<br />
Adapted from Better Homes and Gardens New Cookbook<br />
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3 cups flour<br />
2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 cups sugar<br />
2 cups grated zucchini (approximately 2 small zucchini)<br />
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce<br />
1/2 cup chopped pecans<br />
1/2 cup golden raisins<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray two 8" loaf pans with baking spray. In a large mixing bowl combine flour, cinnamon, soda, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Stir to combine. In a second mixing bowl, whisk eggs until lightly beaten, add sugar, zucchini, and applesauce. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and mix in wet ingredients all at once. Stir just until moistened. Add pecans and raisins to the mixture and fold in. Divide batter evenly between pans and bake for 50-55 minutes or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for about 15 minutes, run a knife around the edges to loosen and remove from pan. Cool completely on a wire rack. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to store or freeze.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-41957220363283796472012-07-16T13:54:00.000-04:002012-07-16T13:54:21.545-04:00Berries and Cherries Fruit Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a hard time deciding which season is my favorite - summer or fall. The abundant sunshine, time at the pool, beach vacations, and fresh fruit everywhere make me love summer. But I love fall because I can wear jeans and boots, football season, the lack of humidity and 100 degree temperatures and anything with apples and cinnamon so it's a tie in my mind. But while summer is here, I love to take advantage of all the fresh fruit that is in season. The grocery store is full of cheap, fresh, local fruits that are delicious. Why not use it to make a super simple, healthy side dish? This fruit salad is the result of a Kroger sale on fresh berries last week and some gorgeous cherries that I had to buy. It would also be good with the addition of fresh pineapple, kiwi, grapes, apples, etc. Really anything goes, just add what you like. <br />
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This is perfect for a summer potluck or picnic too since it doesn't require refrigeration. It's great for adults and kids, although remember that it is recommended that kids under one year of age shouldn't have honey. My toddler absolutely loved this, but I did make sure I chopped the fruit a bit smaller than I normally would have if it was just being served to adults.<br />
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This also makes for a great dessert spooned over vanilla ice cream or with a dollop of whipped cream if you are going for a healthier option.<br />
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Berries and Cherries Fruit Salad<br />
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2 cups sliced strawberries<br />
1 cup blackberries<br />
1 cup raspberries<br />
1 cup pitted, sliced cherries<br />
1 tsp lime zest<br />
2 T lime juice<br />
2 T honey<br />
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In the bottom of a medium size bowl, whisk together lime juice, zest, and honey. Add sliced fruit and gently stir to coat with sauce. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to combine. The juices from the fruit will add to the sauce as well. Stir gently just before serving. <br />
<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-40834724085806522472012-06-04T15:46:00.000-04:002012-06-04T15:46:12.802-04:00Blueberry Crumb Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KlEEyx8QGfc/T80QBEiVoYI/AAAAAAAAB4M/KDrdeSFSgN4/s1600/blueberry+cake.2.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KlEEyx8QGfc/T80QBEiVoYI/AAAAAAAAB4M/KDrdeSFSgN4/s400/blueberry+cake.2.jpg.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My baby girl loves fruit - and sometimes she's a little bit picky when it comes to anything else. And by a little bit picky, I mean she eats fruit and that's it lately. So I've been trying to find more fruits that she'll eat to add some variety and also trying to come up with some variety in what I use the fruit in. She used to eat anything you gave her, up until the past few weeks, now she turns down her former favorites, unless its fruit.<br />
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Sure we have plenty of bananas, strawberries, yogurt with fruit, cottage cheese with fruit, melon, pineapple, and applesauce, but I figure at least fruit is good for you, she could have been even more like her mama and decided the only food she would eat for several months running was French toast - yes I went through that phase when I was about the same age she is now. The quirks of toddlers... she'll move on eventually, everyone does. For now, I'm making things like banana bread, strawberry muffins, and this blueberry crumb cake. And hey, it's delicious, so I recommend you try it, fruit addiction or not.<br />
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And if you have any tips on getting a picky toddler to branch out a bit or you have some great fruit suggestions, I would love them.<br />
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Blueberry Crumb Cake<br />
Slightly adapted from Dorie Greenspan's <i>Baking: From My Home to Yours</i><br />
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<i>Cake:</i><br />
2 cups flour, plus 2 tsp for berries<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1/4 tsp grated nutmeg<br />
6 T unsalted butter, at room temperature<br />
2/3 cup sugar<br />
1 tsp grated lemon zest<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/4 tsp lemon extract<br />
1/2 cup buttermilk<br />
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries<br />
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<i>Crumb topping:</i><br />
1/3 cup brown sugar<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
1/3 cup flour<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
4 T unsalted butter, cold<br />
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Coat an 8x8 baking pan or Pyrex dish with butter or baking spray and preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg and stir to combine. In a mixing bowl, combine butter, sugar and lemon zest and cream on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing for about one minute after each addition. Add vanilla and lemon extracts and mix to combine. Add 1/2 of the flour mixture, mix until just combined. Add buttermilk and mix until combined then remaining flour mixture, mixing until incorporated. Finally, lightly toss blueberries with remaining 2 tsp flour and fold into the batter. Pour batter into prepared dish and smooth the top.<br />
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In a small bowl, combine sugars, flour, salt, and cinnamon for crumb topping. Add butter and cut in with a fork, a pastry blender or your fingers until it forms a crumbly mixture. Sprinkle liberally on top of batter and bake for approximately one hour, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool slightly and serve warm or at room temperature. Keep any leftovers covered once it's fully cooled.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-42575801856742122252012-05-21T21:25:00.000-04:002012-05-21T21:25:49.152-04:00Hummingbird Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uvIWSVc-Qhc/T7rqkSQ-X9I/AAAAAAAAB3w/5pFEUvOSpk8/s1600/May+2012+231.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uvIWSVc-Qhc/T7rqkSQ-X9I/AAAAAAAAB3w/5pFEUvOSpk8/s400/May+2012+231.1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Have you ever had hummingbird cake? Think tropical carrot cake full of pineapple and coconut. It may sound weird but this is a quick and easy cake that will give you ridiculously good results. This works equally well as a quick bundt cake to serve coffee cake style or as a layer cake sandwiched with layers of cream cheese frosting, just double the recipe. <br />
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Hummingbird Cake<br />
Adapted from <a href="http://annies-eats.com/2012/05/10/hummingbird-coffee-cake/">Annie's Eats</a><br />
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<i>Cake:</i><br />
2 cups all purpose flour<br />
1 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1 tsp coconut extract<br />
1 cup vanilla greek yogurt<br />
2 ripe bananas, mashed - approximately 1 cup<br />
2/3 cup shredded coconut<br />
1 cup crushed pineapple, drained<br />
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<i>Icing:</i><br />
3 oz cream cheese, at room temperature<br />
2 T milk<br />
1/2 tsp vanilla extract<br />
3/4 cup powdered sugar<br />
1/3 cup shredded coconut<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease and flour a bundt pan. <br />
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Combine flour, baking soda, powder, salt and cinnamon in a medium bowl and whisk to combine. Separately cream butter and sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing until thoroughly combined. Add in extracts and yogurt and mix to combine. Add 1/2 of the flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Mix in the bananas and then follow with the remaining flour mixture. Once combined, stir in coconut and pineapple. Transfer to prepared pan, smooth out the top and bake about 45-55 minutes until a knife or skewer comes out clean. <br />
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Cool in pan for about 20 minutes. Cover a cooling rack with parchment paper, place on top of bundt pan and invert cake and cool completely.<br />
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For icing, whisk cream cheese until smooth, whisk in milk and vanilla. Add powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Add more powdered sugar if necessary to reach desired thickness. Stir in coconut. Spoon over the top of the cooled cake, cut and serve.<br />
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<br />Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-77776733572160811632012-04-20T10:54:00.000-04:002013-07-23T21:10:54.970-04:00My baby girl turned One!Yes it was two months ago... and I'm just now getting around to sharing a few of the details. I know, life has been a little crazy around here as we prepare for baby number 2... can't believe she'll be here in another 6 weeks or so, and try to finish up all the remodeling projects - the new nursery and master bathroom being at the top of the list. But even in those two months, I still can't believe my baby girl is over a year old, walking, jabbering constantly and really developing quite the personality.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yT0EY3Zjb9k/T5Fy4i-wnNI/AAAAAAAAB3A/V9Z2rmkl3cQ/s1600/Aubrey+balloon1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yT0EY3Zjb9k/T5Fy4i-wnNI/AAAAAAAAB3A/V9Z2rmkl3cQ/s400/Aubrey+balloon1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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For Aubrey's party - we did a little bit of a circus/carnival theme - I'll admit largely due to the fact that I was slightly obsessed with the pennant flag banners that are popping up all over the place right now. I just love them and thought they would make adorable party decor. My sister <a href="http://www.doodledogadvertising.com/">Nikki, of Doodle Dog Advertising</a>, made some <a href="http://www.doodledogadvertising.com/doodledogblog/?p=2379">adorable invitations</a> for the party featuring a cute little elephant that I decided to use for the cookies too.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-24bfEavUsVo/T4nFLwfZi7I/AAAAAAAAB2o/DPz4AvRP3Ew/s1600/first_birthday_invite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-24bfEavUsVo/T4nFLwfZi7I/AAAAAAAAB2o/DPz4AvRP3Ew/s400/first_birthday_invite.jpg" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://www.doodledogadvertising.com/">DoodleDog Advertising</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I combined the elephants with some friendly little lions inspired by cookies that I had bookmarked quite a while ago from <a href="http://bakeat350.blogspot.com/2011/04/leo-lion-cookies.html">Bridget at Bake at 350</a>. I love the way they turned out, but a word of warning, don't ever try to layer your cookies with wax paper when you run out of parchment paper at 10 pm, the wax paper stuck to the frosting in several places and I had to do some minor cookie reconstructive surgery the day of the party. My go to sugar cookie<a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/12/sugar-cookies-for-christmas.html"> recipe can be found here</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clIat6noS8g/T5FyxlNf6_I/AAAAAAAAB24/enJ4bLYT78U/s1600/cookie+detail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clIat6noS8g/T5FyxlNf6_I/AAAAAAAAB24/enJ4bLYT78U/s400/cookie+detail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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For the cakes, I knew I wanted to make Aubrey a simple smash cake and I tied the main cake back to our circus theme with a mini-pennant banner strung from plastic carnival stripe straws. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SMWMgGBrueA/T5F0IXDCJbI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/p3rbqa2dors/s1600/March+-+April+2012+041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SMWMgGBrueA/T5F0IXDCJbI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/p3rbqa2dors/s400/March+-+April+2012+041.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div>
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I used a basic white cake recipe (<a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/04/checkerboard-cake.html">also seen here</a>) from Magnolia Bakery for both to keep things simple and filled and frosted them with a simple buttercream. Sprinkles and a fun corkscrew candle were all the decoration the smash cake needed and a simple dot pattern adorned the main cake. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sLl2PieVk8w/T5FzGIhhmsI/AAAAAAAAB3I/zrNqNhhHGGI/s1600/cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sLl2PieVk8w/T5FzGIhhmsI/AAAAAAAAB3I/zrNqNhhHGGI/s400/cake.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Finally I made a 3rd cake (2nd smash cake) for a photo shoot with <a href="http://www.dedeholmanphotography.com/">Dede Holman Photography</a> the following week so we could have some adorable pictures to document the occasion. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lSstq34IhEI/T5FzafkiPxI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/qJ-8ufhY8gI/s1600/Holman-323action.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lSstq34IhEI/T5FzafkiPxI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/qJ-8ufhY8gI/s400/Holman-323action.1.jpg" width="383" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by <a href="http://www.dedeholmanphotography.com/">Dede Holman Photography</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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For other food at the party I stuck with some simple spins on carnival food - spicy whiskey BBQ sliders (slightly modified from <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/12/spicy-whiskey-bbq-sliders/">Pioneer Woman</a> - I used ground turkey instead of beef and cut out the majority of the butter and served them on Hawaiian roles), kettle corn, fruit skewers on a stick and animal crackers with a vanilla honey yogurt dip (a simple combination of vanilla yogurt, a little honey for sweetness and some lime zest), nachos with cheese dip and guacamole, mini corndogs muffins (recipe found on <a href="http://iowagirleats.com/2012/01/30/super-bowl-recipe-week-mini-corn-dog-muffins/">Iowa Girl Eats</a>) and veggies and dip. <br />
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<b>Traditional White Birthday Cake</b><br />
Recipe slightly adapted from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Complete-Magnolia-Cookbook-Recipes-World-Famous/dp/B003OY91HW/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1334933519&sr=1-2">Magnolia Bakery Cookbook</a><br />
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<em style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Cake:</em><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">1 1/2 cups sugar</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">2 cups self-rising flour</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">1 cup whole milk</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">2 tsp vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">4 egg whites</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 3 8" baking pans baking spray and line the bottoms with parchment rounds.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Cream the butter on medium high speed until smooth. Add the sugar gradually, beating until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Combine milk and vanilla in a measuring cup. Add flour in 3 parts, alternating with the milk, beating well after each addition, beginning and ending with flour. Set batter aside.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Add egg whites to a clean mixing bowl and begin beating on low speed, gradually increasing speed to high as egg whites thicken. Beat until the egg whites make soft peaks. Gently fold into cake batter, 1/3 at a time.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Bake 22-25 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool in pans for about 5 minutes, loosen the edges with a knife if necessary, and turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.</span> <br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><i>Note: this recipe will make 2 2-layer 6" smash cakes or 1 3 layer 8" cake, so double the recipe if you want to make the 2-tier cake and a smash cake. In the pictures above, the smash cakes are each built with 2 6" cakes cut in half horizontally to make 4 total thin layers and then torted with buttercream. The 2-tier cake is done the same way with a 6" cake over an 8" cake. I did use small wooden dowels for stability when stacking the tiers.</i></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">Buttercream Icing</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">1 tsp vanilla extract</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">1/4 cup heavy cream</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">1 lb powdered sugar</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;">Beat butter in a large mixing bowl for 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy, add in vanilla and cream and mix on low speed until incorporated. Add powdered sugar in a several additions to prevent it from making a giant cloud of sugar all over your kitchen. Mix on low speed until incorporated and increase speed gradually to medium high and whip an additional 1-2 minutes. Icing should be thick but easily spreadable. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><i>Note: this will make enough icing to torte and ice at least one smash cake but you will need more to do all of the cakes above.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 20px;"><br />
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Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-69724867459345626932012-01-11T21:03:00.000-05:002012-01-11T21:03:23.835-05:00Caramel Praline Cheesecake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-__Xls5hLguU/Tw4--1jsEOI/AAAAAAAAB2A/mocb2_feUFY/s1600/Caramel+Praline+Cheesecake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" kba="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-__Xls5hLguU/Tw4--1jsEOI/AAAAAAAAB2A/mocb2_feUFY/s400/Caramel+Praline+Cheesecake.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Yes I know, everyone is on a diet right now. Oh wait, I mean "lifestyle change." Taking a break from rich desserts, cookie jars, and cheese-filled appetizers. Well, I'm not going to lie, we kind of are too, and I actually made this way back at Thanksgiving, I just haven't had a chance to share it with you yet. But despite that, I'm still going to tell you to find an occasion to make this cheesecake. A birthday, an anniversary, a special dinner for Valentine's Day, Saturday... you know, whatever works in your life. I'm not the biggest cheesecake lover, but this one is good. Rich and creamy and topped with a delicious caramel sauce and candied pecans... it doesn't get much better. And go ahead, use the 1/3 less fat cream cheese if you want, I used it for two of the four packages and it turned out perfectly. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The best part for those of you Type A dessert makers, the caramel sauce will hide any cracks that you might have. I got lucky with this one though and it came out perfectly without a crack.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Caramel Praline Cheesecake</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Adapted slightly from <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/caramel-praline-cheesecake/">Taste of Home</a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><em>Crust:</em></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 package (about 10) graham crackers</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 T sugar</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">6 T unsalted butter, melter</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><em>Filling:</em><br />
4 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened<br />
1 1/2 cups sugar<br />
1/4 cup all purpose flour<br />
5 large eggs<br />
2 cups sour cream (16 oz)<br />
1/4 cup milk<br />
1 T bourbon vanilla extract<br />
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<em>Topping:</em><br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1/4 cup water<br />
1 cup heavy whipping cream<br />
1 T unsalted butter<br />
1 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
10-12 pecan halves<br />
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Spray a 10-inch springform pan with baking spray and place on a double layer of aluminum foil big enough to fold up around the pan. Wrap the overhanging foil around the sides of the pan to seal it. <br />
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In a food processor, combine the graham crackers and sugar for the crust. Pulse 5-6 times until fine and crumbled. Add melted butter and pulse 2-3 more times until the mix begins to hold together slightly. Pour mix into prepared pan and press into the bottom in an even layer. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.<br />
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Heat a few cups of water in a tea kettle or microwave in a large measuring cup. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar for 3-5 minutes on medium speed until smooth. Beat in flour and then eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed just until combined. Add sour cream, milk, and vanilla and mix to combine. Pour mixture into crust. Place the springform pan inside another larger pan (like an 11"x13" baking pan or a 12" cake pan) and pour the hot water around the outside of the springform pan to a depth of approximately 1" to form a water bath.<br />
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Bake for about 75 minutes, until the center appears dull. The cake should still jiggle slightly in the center. Remove springform pan from the water bath and transfer to a wire rack. After about 10 minutes, run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen and continue to cool about 1 hour. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill at least 4 hours or overnight.<br />
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For the topping, stir together sugar and water in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar is melted. Cook approximately 15 minutes more without stirring until golden brown. Reduce heat to low and gradually add the heavy cream. Cook and stir until the sugar is completely melted and smooth. Using a candy thermometer, increase heat to medium and cook, stirring constantly until the temperature reaches 225 degrees. Remove from the heat and add butter and vanilla. Cool to room temperature. Pour evenly over the cheesecake. <br />
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In a small skillet, toast pecan halves over medium heat for a few minutes just until fragrant. Press one pecan into each slice of the cheesecake or garnish as desired.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-90537971652501796452011-12-30T15:15:00.000-05:002011-12-30T15:15:09.811-05:002011's Top 11 RecipesAs 2011 comes to a close (how is that possible?? Didn't it just start?) I'm going to share this year's most popular recipes. There are a few repeats from last year as some of the "greatest hits" continue to pop up. <br />
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The number one recipe is this <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/05/white-cheddar-chicken-pasta.html">White Cheddar Chicken Pasta</a>. This recipe has become a staple around here and is a quick and easy dinner to throw together. It's also super versatile. No wonder it remains a hit.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/S-IfS15OP-I/AAAAAAAABPU/XDH7fP69bzw/s1600/013.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5467967306146398178" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/S-IfS15OP-I/AAAAAAAABPU/XDH7fP69bzw/s400/013.1.jpg" style="display: block; height: 400px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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In the number two spot is this recipe for <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/11/chicken-enchilada-soup.html">Chicken Enchilada Soup</a>. Perfect on a chilly fall or winter day, this soup can be made on the stovetop or in a crockpot. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TNWAxTb2MzI/AAAAAAAABrk/ZCLqkF-fKSY/s1600/chicken+enchilada+soup1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_9b0481="3" height="400" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TNWAxTb2MzI/AAAAAAAABrk/ZCLqkF-fKSY/s400/chicken+enchilada+soup1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In third place is another all-time favorite still sticking with the spicy trend... <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/03/spicy-chicken-tortilla-roll-ups.html">Spicy Chicken Tortilla Roll-ups</a>. These are a perfect appetizer for a New Year's or Superbowl party. They come together quickly and you can make them in advance too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><img alt="" border="0" closure_uid_h5v0fv="2" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447090651699863058" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/S5f0Fnnr3hI/AAAAAAAAA9c/jY-RCZHuCKY/s400/Nikki%27s+Shower+074.1.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></div><br />
For fourth place, you moved on to dessert and like these <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/03/smores-cupcakes.html">S'mores Cupcakes</a> as the top cupcake recipe I've posted over the last three years. And I can understand why, they are quite impressive especially when you break out the kitchen torch to give them the marshmallow frosting that toasted look and taste. If you haven't made these yet, you really should try them.<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" closure_uid_4bfd7q="2" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5454048553083902530" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/S7CsQyJMmkI/AAAAAAAABC0/eMJDv2p7eL8/s400/243.1.jpg" style="display: block; height: 268px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br />
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Coming in fifth is another easy weeknight pasta dish. These <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/08/lasagna-roll-ups.html">lasagna roll-ups</a> are the perfect solution to a classic Italian dish without all the work and without three days of leftovers in the fridge if you're not cooking for a crowd. Plus these can be made with so many variations. Try using chicken, beef or Italian sausage in place of the turkey, an alfredo sauce or pesto cream sauce in place of the marinara. There are all kinds of options to keep these fun.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TFjDOlK_m-I/AAAAAAAABjc/LoFOWXG9pDw/s1600/7-31-10+017.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" closure_uid_5n7uqy="4" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TFjDOlK_m-I/AAAAAAAABjc/LoFOWXG9pDw/s400/7-31-10+017.1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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New to the list of favorites this year is another appetizer that I originally made for the Superbowl this year. These classic <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2011/02/soft-pretzels-with-jalapeno-cheese.html">soft pretzels with jalapeno cheese sauce</a> are easier than you might think and make a fantastic weekend snack or party appetizer. The cheese sauce can be used with the pretzels or use at a queso dip for chips or pour it over enchiladas for even more cheesy goodness. If you want to experiment with some pretzels, compare this classic method which uses bread flour and boils the pretzels in a baking soda bath to this latest version of <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2011/12/cheese-stuffed-everything-pretzels.html">Cheese-Stuffed Everything Pretzels</a> that I just tried which uses all-purpose flour and skips the baking soda bath with fantastic results.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TVCTFhVZshI/AAAAAAAABvY/NPTWGJqB3d4/s1600/pretzels3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_wkn931="3" h5="true" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TVCTFhVZshI/AAAAAAAABvY/NPTWGJqB3d4/s400/pretzels3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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In seventh place, a cookie recipe that mimics those super soft grocery store sugar cookies. Made with a cake mix, this isn't your standard sugar cookie recipe but it does yield delicious cookies and it takes about five minutes to mix up. You don't have to roll and cut anything and decorations are as easy as a few colored sprinkles if you want them. I know it's past "cookie season" but these <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/09/soft-and-thick-sugar-cookies.html">Soft and Thick Sugar Cookies</a> are worth it.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TJ-meOqcC9I/AAAAAAAABpc/rsPHrWF5x3k/s1600/9-5-10+047.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_ynofeo="2" height="400" px="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TJ-meOqcC9I/AAAAAAAABpc/rsPHrWF5x3k/s400/9-5-10+047.1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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The list is rounded out with cupcake recipes. <br />
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In eigth place, <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/08/snickers-cupcakes.html">Snickers Cupcakes</a>, a rich chocolate cupcake, filled with caramel and topped with caramel buttercream and chopped Snickers bar pieces. I've since decided I prefer to add a little chopped candy bar to the caramel filling in the center as well as it helps hold the cupcake together a little better. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TFWnGPxpbHI/AAAAAAAABik/PmVuS1nah3s/s1600/7-31-10+035.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" closure_uid_aifxga="4" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TFWnGPxpbHI/AAAAAAAABik/PmVuS1nah3s/s400/7-31-10+035.1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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Next up is another chocolate favorite, <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2010/03/chocolate-cherry-coke-cupcakes.html">Chocolate Cherry Coke Cupcakes</a>. Again these start out with a chocolate cupcake base but this time they get filled with a cherry filling, topped with a Coke glaze and frosted with whipped cream frosting. A cute little cherry on top make these an adorable and nostalgic favorite.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_mgQgwdQ2E/Tv4WUiNp4cI/AAAAAAAAB1s/R6vPilZvvgo/s1600/Nikki%2527s+Shower+094_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_mgQgwdQ2E/Tv4WUiNp4cI/AAAAAAAAB1s/R6vPilZvvgo/s400/Nikki%2527s+Shower+094_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next on the list, is a cupcake that could be breakfast or dessert. Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes are a delicious, portable (although still sticky) cinnamon roll baked up in cupcake form. The method is the same as a classic cinnamon roll but the cupcake presentation adds a cute touch for a brunch or other gathering.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TKSV2VoMsvI/AAAAAAAABps/bvx3kyEM-uw/s1600/9-27-10+017.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_keu5ua="4" height="400" px="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_n2M31R4Iv58/TKSV2VoMsvI/AAAAAAAABps/bvx3kyEM-uw/s400/9-27-10+017.1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally, the last favorite of the year is a cupcake I baked up for my husband for his birthday this year. These <a href="http://homeiswheretheholmansare.blogspot.com/2011/04/orange-creamsicle-cupcakes.html">Orange Creamsicle Cupcakes</a> would definitely make my short list of favorites as well. The cake is super moist and has a light orange flavor. The combination of orange buttercream and marshmallow cream filling give the cupcake that creamsicle flavor that takes these over the top.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q53EUhQkelc/Tbym1Q5hdoI/AAAAAAAABw0/k7kRxkKoVPQ/s1600/creamsicle+cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" closure_uid_1z86yv="2" height="400" j8="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q53EUhQkelc/Tbym1Q5hdoI/AAAAAAAABw0/k7kRxkKoVPQ/s400/creamsicle+cupcakes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
That wraps up the list of 2011 reader favorites. All in all, 2011 was a great, although extremely busy, year for my family. <br />
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Of course, my favorite thing I "baked" in 2011 was our daughter, Aubrey, who arrived in February. I can't believe it's time to start planning her first birthday party now.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vRiw_jaGItI/Tv4bDJ8WnVI/AAAAAAAAB14/3PtS6tqrHqQ/s1600/Christmas+2011+029.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vRiw_jaGItI/Tv4bDJ8WnVI/AAAAAAAAB14/3PtS6tqrHqQ/s320/Christmas+2011+029.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <br />
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From there the year was a blur of selling our house, weddings, vacations, and buying and remodeling our new house that still hasn't really ended but as the year comes to a close, I'm trying to appreciate what we have and live more in the moment rather than rushing to get to the next big thing. Happy New Year to all my wonderful readers, thanks for putting up with a lot more sporadic posting than I would have liked this year. Although I don't see 2012 calming down any, I'm hoping I can squeeze in some recipes with a bit more regularity. I've got some great ones to share with you.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-62760513967245070072011-12-28T09:17:00.000-05:002011-12-28T09:17:59.345-05:00White Chocolate Cinnamon Crunch Popcorn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L3nMljE6guI/TvskcDZmJII/AAAAAAAAB1Y/IH4kjvkrhKQ/s1600/Thanksgiving+145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" rea="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L3nMljE6guI/TvskcDZmJII/AAAAAAAAB1Y/IH4kjvkrhKQ/s400/Thanksgiving+145.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Want some gourmet popcorn that you can make right at home? It's easier than you might think. But it probably involves more butter than you think so make this before your New Year's resolutions take effect. This would actually be a perfect snack for a New Year's Eve party. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">However, if you make your popcorn in the microwave, I hope you'll reconsider. It is so much better when you make it on the stove top. You don't end up with all the chemicals and it's super easy. All you need is a large sauce pan with a tight fitting lid, a little canola or vegetable oil, and some popcorn kernels. Personally I've replaced my popcorn pan with a Whirleypop, a switch I made a few years ago when we upgraded our stove to a glass top instead of coil burners. I didn't want to scratch the stove top shaking the pan so I bought the Whirleypop which has the same result but since it has a mechanism to stir the popcorn inside the pan, you don't have to shake it. It was a worthwhile investment for us since I'm a popcorn lover and it was only about $30. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-grY7Q33XWyA/TvskfxWI6nI/AAAAAAAAB1g/p7GGx9BuBZ4/s1600/Thanksgiving+151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" rea="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-grY7Q33XWyA/TvskfxWI6nI/AAAAAAAAB1g/p7GGx9BuBZ4/s400/Thanksgiving+151.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Anyway, back to the recipe, you can make your popcorn on the stove or in an air popper, or if you must use the microwave, at least make sure you are using the natural popcorn without butter or other flavorings. <br />
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White Chocolate Cinnamon Crunch Popcorn<br />
Recipe adapted from <a href="http://homeisright.blogspot.com/2010/12/baking-day.html">Right at Home</a><br />
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2/3 cup popcorn kernels (about 16 cups popped)<br />
1 1/4 cups brown sugar<br />
1 1/4 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/3 cup light Karo syrup<br />
1/2 cup butter<br />
1 1/2 tsp vanilla<br />
3/4 tsp baking soda<br />
3 squares almond bark<br />
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Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. <br />
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Pop popcorn and set aside in large bowls, make sure to leave yourself room to mix in the bowls or it will get very messy.<br />
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Combine brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and corn syrup in a large microwave safe bowl. (If your butter is straight out of the refrigerator, cut it into chunks before adding it to the bowl to help it melt faster.) Microwave on high for about 30 seconds and then stir to combine everything. Microwave an additional two minutes and stir and return to microwave for two more minutes. Add vanilla and baking soda and stir to combine, the mixture will foam and rise when you add the baking soda. Divide hot caramel mixture evenly among the popcorn bowls and quickly stir to coat the popcorn. Continue to gently mix until topping is well distributed. <br />
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Pour popcorn mixture onto prepared pans and bake for approximately 30 minutes, stirring every ten minutes. Lay out another large sheet of parchment paper on your counter. Remove the popcorn from the oven and spread out on parchment paper. Melt almond bark (I like to use a double boiler method as it scorches very easily in the microwave but you can use whatever method you prefer) and drizzle over popcorn. Let popcorn cool and then break into chunks and serve or store in an airtight container. <br />
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Whirleypop has not sponsored this post in anyway, these are my own opinions.)</span></em>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-74300840186739787312011-12-25T22:34:00.000-05:002011-12-25T22:34:59.096-05:00Merry Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YquJFEq6oFM/Tvfq3XS2mpI/AAAAAAAAB1M/Fo7B6khbB6I/s1600/Christmas+195.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YquJFEq6oFM/Tvfq3XS2mpI/AAAAAAAAB1M/Fo7B6khbB6I/s400/Christmas+195.1.jpg" width="292" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Merry Christmas from my family to yours...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thanks for reading, I'll be back soon with some new recipes. </div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-563191179327164441.post-82073208829848097592011-12-20T21:19:00.001-05:002011-12-20T21:20:41.752-05:00Cheese Stuffed Everything PretzelsIt only takes one word to describe these pretzels... awesome! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WzNN2MVcLek/TvFBrMh6uwI/AAAAAAAAB0s/sBsvlwyVh9A/s1600/Everything+pretzels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" oda="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WzNN2MVcLek/TvFBrMh6uwI/AAAAAAAAB0s/sBsvlwyVh9A/s400/Everything+pretzels.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Of course, I will continue to type because I can't actually just stop at the one word. Soft pretzels are delicious on their own, this recipe adds cheese to the middle and then adds poppy seeds, garlic, and minced onion to the normal sea salt topping. Takes them to a whole new level. Just look at the oozy cheese, the crunchy toppings... yummm...</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This is also a super easy recipe for those of you who are afraid of yeast... there is no rising, punching, etc. This recipe also skips the normal soft pretzel step of boiling the dough in a baking soda bath before cooking as well. This makes for an incredibly quick pretzel recipe. I think I had these mixed, rolled, shaped, and baked in under an hour. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NR6Wsh7yWbw/TvFBtXWt3NI/AAAAAAAAB00/-go-MHoWHoU/s1600/Everything+pretzels.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" oda="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NR6Wsh7yWbw/TvFBtXWt3NI/AAAAAAAAB00/-go-MHoWHoU/s400/Everything+pretzels.2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Cheese Stuffed Everything Pretzels<br />
Adapted from <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/guy-fieri/guys-knot-for-nuthin-everything-pretzel-recipe/index.html">Guy Fieri, via the Food Network</a><br />
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<em>Dough:</em><br />
1 1/2 cups warm water (approx. 110 degrees)<br />
2 packets active dry yeast<br />
4 cups all purpose flour<br />
1 tsp sea salt<br />
1 T sugar<br />
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper<br />
1 tsp garlic powder<br />
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese<br />
1 egg<br />
3 cups shredded colby jack cheese<br />
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<em>Toppings:</em><br />
1 egg<br />
2 T milk<br />
1 tsp poppy seeds<br />
1 tsp garlic powder<br />
1 tsp minced onion<br />
1 tsp sea salt<br />
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In a large measuring cup, heat water and sprinkle yeast over the water. Stir to combine and let sit for about 10 minutes until frothy. Meanwhile, in a food processor fitted with a dough blade, combine all dry ingredients and pulse to combine. Add egg and yeast mixture and pulse in short bursts until the dough comes together. Do not over mix, you just want the dough to come together. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead a few times with your hands. If dough feels sticky, add a little more flour. Form the dough into a ball and cut in half.<br />
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Roll out 1/2 of the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 12"x17", sprinkle about 3/4 cup of the colby jack cheese down the center 1/3 of the dough. Fold one edge over the cheese, sprinkle with another 3/4 cup cheese, and fold over the remaining 1/3. Pinch the edges of the dough to seal the cheese inside. Roll out the dough again into a rectangle about 11"x15". Cut the dough into six strips approximately 1 1/2" wide. Roll each strip into a tube and form into a pretzel shape by looping and crossing the ends over each other, then tuck back onto the loop and pinch to seal. Transfer to a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining half of dough. <br />
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Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a small bowl, combine remaining egg and milk. Whisk to combine and set aside. In another small bowl, combine poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt. Brush the pretzels liberally with the egg wash, then sprinkle with spice mixture. Bake 18-20 minutes until light golden brown. Transfer pretzels to a wire rack to cool.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06586578285311974730noreply@blogger.com12