5.31.2011

American-Italian Pasta Salad recipe.

Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package fusilli pasta
1 cup frozen petite peas, thawed
2 (2 ounce) cans sliced black olives
1 cup cubed Genoa salami
3/4 cup chopped green onions
3/4 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian-style salad dressing mix
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons milk

Directions
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta until al dente, rinse under cold water and drain.
In a medium bowl combine mayonnaise, sour cream, milk and Italian dressing mix. Whisk together until smooth, set aside.
In a large salad bowl combine cooked and cooled pasta, peas, olives, salami, green onions, celery and parsley. Mix in dressing last, reserving 1/2 cup. Let sit over night in fridge. Stir before serving. Add extra dressing if pasta appears dry.

Black Tea Lemonade recipe.

Ingredients
5 cups water
1/2 cup white sugar
3 orange pekoe tea bags
1 (12 ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate
5 cups water

Directions
Bring 5 cups of water and the sugar to a boil in a saucepan, then remove from the heat and add the tea bags. Allow tea to steep while you mix the lemonade concentrate and remaining water in a large pitcher. Pour the tea mixture into the lemonade, discarding tea bags. Stir and refrigerate until cold before serving.

Blue Cheese and Onion recipe.

Ingredients
8 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
1 red onion, halved and thinly sliced
1/3 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 (1 pound) loaf cocktail rye bread

Directions
In a glass dish or serving bowl, layer the blue cheese and onion. Mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, mustard powder and pepper. Pour over the blue cheese and onions, and let stand for 1 hour at room temperature to marinate. Serve on cocktail rye slices.

Bacon Wrapped Pineapple recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 pound sliced bacon, cut into thirds
1 (20 ounce) can pineapple chunks in juice, drained
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup chili sauce

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Wrap each chunk of pineapple with a piece of bacon and secure with toothpicks. Place in a shallow baking dish. In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, mayonnaise and chili sauce; pour over the bacon wrapped pineapple.
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes in the preheated oven, until bacon is crispy on the edges and the sauce is bubbly. Serve warm.

Banana Split Pie recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup butter
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 (1 ounce) square unsweetened chocolate, grated
1 (9 inch) pie crust, baked

Directions
Cream together butter or margarine and confectioner's sugar. Beat in eggs one at a time; beat for 3 minutes after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
Slice 2 bananas, and sprinkle with lemon juice. Fold grated chocolate and bananas into sugar mixture. Turn filling into cooled pie shell. Garnish with walnuts, banana slices, and whipped cream.
For more information regarding egg safety, read our Hints and Tips.

Black Forest Crepes recipe.

Ingredients
1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
1 teaspoon almond extract
2/3 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup blanched almonds, ground
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup heavy whipping cream
3 (1 ounce) squares semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted

Directions
In a small bowl, combine pie filling and almond extract; cover and refrigerate until chilled. For crepes, place the milk, eggs, butter, almonds and flour in a blender; cover and process until smooth.
Heat a lightly greased 8-in. nonstick skillet; pour about 2 tablespoons batter into center of skillet. Lift and tilt pan to coat bottom evenly. Cook until top appears dry and bottom is golden brown; turn and cook 15-20 seconds longer. Remove to a wire rack. Repeat with remaining batter, greasing skillet as needed. Stack cooled crepes with waxed paper or paper towels in between.
For the filling, in a mixing, beat cream and melted chocolate until soft peaks form. Spoon about 2 tablespoons over each crepe; roll up. Top with cherry mixture and sprinkle with slivered almonds.

Beaker's Vegetable Barley Soup recipe.

Ingredients
2 quarts vegetable broth
1 cup uncooked barley
2 large carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
1 zucchini, chopped
1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained
1 onion, chopped
3 bay leaves
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon white sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions
Pour the vegetable broth into a large pot. Add the barley, carrots, celery, tomatoes, zucchini, garbanzo beans, onion, and bay leaves. Season with garlic powder, sugar, salt, pepper, parsley, curry powder, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 90 minutes. The soup will be very thick. You may adjust by adding more broth or less barley if desired. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Burnt Sugar Cake I recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup white sugar
1 cup water
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup butter
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup white sugar
1 cup water

Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease three 9 inch round cake pans.
In a small saucepan bring 1 cup of the water to a boil, slowly add 1/2 cup of the sugar and cook to a thick syrup.
Sift together the flour with the baking powder and salt.
In a large bowl, cream the butter or margarine with 1 1/2 cups of the sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
In another bowl, combine milk and sugar/water mixture. Add the vanilla and mix well.
Add the sifted dry ingredients alternately with the milk mixture to the creamed butter or margarine mixture. Stir until just combined. Pour batter equally into three greased 9 inch round cake pans.
Bake for about 30 minutes at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). When cool, glaze with burnt sugar syrup.
To Make Glaze: In a small saucepan bring 1 cup water to a boil, slowly add 1/2 cup of the sugar and cook to a thick syrup. Pour over top of cooled cake layers.

Apple Bundt Cake recipe.

Ingredients
2 cups apples - peeled, cored and diced
1 tablespoon white sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups white sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup orange juice
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup confectioners' sugar for dusting

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 10 inch Bundt or tube pan. In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, 1 tablespoon white sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon; set aside. Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt; set aside.
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups white sugar, oil, orange juice, vanilla and eggs. Beat at high speed until smooth. Stir in flour mixture. Fold in chopped walnuts.
Pour 1/3 of the batter into prepared pan. Sprinkle with 1/2 of the apple mixture. Alternate layers of batter and filling, ending with batter.
Bake in preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the top springs back when lightly touched. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack and cool completely. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.

Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas recipe.

Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive oil
3 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 (15.5 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (10 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/4 cup salsa
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons butter, divided
8 (8 inch) flour tortillas
1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided

Directions
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in onion, and cook until softened, about 2 minutes. Stir in beans and corn, then add sugar, salsa, and pepper flakes; mix well. Cook until heated through, about 3 minutes.
Melt 2 teaspoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle evenly with cheese, then top with some of the bean mixture. Place another tortilla on top, cook until golden, then flip and cook on the other side. Melt more butter as needed, and repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.

Blue Cheese Walnut Toasts recipe.

Ingredients
1 French baguette, cut into 1/3 inch thick slices
1/4 cup butter, melted
4 ounces crumbled blue cheese
1/4 cup butter, softened
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Brush one side of each slice of bread with melted butter, and place butter side up on a baking sheet. Bake for 7 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
In a small bowl, stir together the blue cheese, softened butter, salt and pepper. Spread this mixture over the tops of the toasted bread slices, then sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
Bake for 6 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the topping is melted and bubbly. Arrange on a serving tray and garnish with chopped parlsley.

Apple Salad II recipe.

Ingredients
5 Granny Smith apples - peeled, cored and chopped
5 Red Delicious apples - peeled, cored and chopped
2 (8 ounce) cans pineapple chunks, drained
2 cups raisins
1 cup chopped pecans
1 (16 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Directions
In a medium-size mixing bowl, combine the apples, drained pineapple, raisins, pecans and whipped topping. Mix well and serve chilled.

Apricot Muffins recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup chopped dried apricots
1 cup boiling water
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
1 egg

Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease a 12 cup muffin pan, or line with paper muffin cups. Place apricots into a small bowl, and pour the boiling water over them. Let stand for 5 minutes.
In a medium bowl stir together the flour, sugar, baking soda and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, oil, buttermilk and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and stir until just blended. It is okay for the batter to have some lumps. Drain water from apricots, and mix them into the batter. Spoon into the prepared muffin cups.
Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the top springs back when lightly pressed. Cool in the pan over a wire rack.

Beef Pot Pie I recipe.

Ingredients
1 (17.5 ounce) package frozen puff pastry, thawed
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 cup raw porcini mushrooms
1 cup chopped carrots
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 potato, diced
1 pound beef tenderloin, cubed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup dry Marsala wine
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 egg white

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large skillet, cook bay leaf, oregano, onions and mushrooms in olive oil until soft. Stir in garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, and meat.
Cook and stir for 10 minutes, or until meat starts to brown. Pour in wine. Bring to a boil, and reduce heat to simmer. Simmer for 35 to 45 minutes.
Place in pie dish, sprinkle with parsley, and cover with pastry. Brush with egg whites.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Bacon Horseradish Dip recipe.

Ingredients
6 slices bacon
1/4 cup prepared horseradish
1 pint sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 lemon, juiced
1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley

Directions
Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine horseradish, sour cream, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Stir well. Stir in bacon; cover and refrigerate one hour. Stir and top with parsley before serving.

Broiled Grouper with Creamy Crab and Shrimp Sauce recipe.

Ingredients
1/4 cup butter
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon Creole mustard
2 (6 ounce) cans crabmeat, drained and flaked
1 (4 ounce) can small shrimp, drained
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
salt and pepper to taste
2 pounds grouper fillets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
salt and pepper to taste

Directions
Preheat the oven broiler. Cover a medium baking dish with foil.
Melt butter with cream in a saucepan over medium heat, and blend in Creole mustard. Cook and stir until thickened. Mix in crab and shrimp. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
Place grouper in the prepared baking dish, and rub with olive oil, lemon juice, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
Broil grouper about 4 minutes on each side, until easily flaked with a fork. Spoon the crab and shrimp mixture over fish to serve.

Alfredo Sauce recipe.

Ingredients
3 tablespoons butter
8 fluid ounces heavy whipping cream
salt to taste
1 pinch ground nutmeg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup grated Romano cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
Melt butter or margarine in a saucepan over medium heat. Add heavy cream, stirring constantly. Stir in salt, nutmeg, grated Parmesan cheese, and grated Romano cheese. Stir constantly until melted, then mix in egg yolk. Simmer over medium low heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

American-Style Red Beans and Rice recipe.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans
1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
4 1/2 cups water, divided
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1 pinch dried thyme
salt and pepper to taste
5 teaspoons adobo seasoning, divided
2 cups uncooked white rice

Directions
In a large saucepan combine olive oil, kidney beans, tomato sauce, 1/2 cup water, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, pepper and 2 teaspoons adobo. Simmer on low heat.
Meanwhile, bring 4 cups water to a boil. Add rice and stir. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and all liquid is absorbed. Stir in remaining 3 teaspoons adobo. Serve beans over the rice.

Arlene's Shrimp Dip recipe.

Ingredients
1 (6.5 ounce) can small shrimp, drained
3 tablespoons creamy salad dressing, e.g. Miracle Whip ™
1 tablespoon minced onion
1/8 teaspoon curry powder
paprika

Directions
In a medium bowl, place the small shrimp. Mash with a fork. Mix in creamy salad dressing, e.g. Miracle Whip ™, curry powder and onion. Thoroughly blend. Garnish with paprika. Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 45 minutes before serving.

Apple Cinnamon Cheesecake by EAGLE BRAND� recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup quick cooking oats
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 (14 ounce) can EAGLE BRAND� Sweetened Condensed Milk (NOT evaporated milk)
3 large eggs
1/2 cup frozen apple juice concentrate, thawed
2 medium all-purpose apples, cored and sliced
Cinnamon Apple Glaze:
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 cup apple juice concentrate, thawed
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. In small bowl, beat 1/2 cup butter and sugar until fluffy. Add flour, oats, walnuts and cinnamon; mix well. Press firmly on bottom and halfway up side of 9-inch springform pan. Bake 10 minutes.
Beat cream cheese until fluffy in large bowl. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth (do not overbeat). Add eggs and apple juice concentrate; mix well. Pour into prepared pan. Bake 45 minutes or until center springs back when lightly touched. Cool.
Cook apples in remaining 1 tablespoon butter until tender-crisp in large skillet. Arrange on top of cheesecake; drizzle with Cinnamon Apple Glaze. Chill. Store leftovers covered in refrigerator.
Apple Cinnamon Glaze: In small saucepan, combine apple juice concentrate, cornstarch and ground cinnamon; mix well. Over low heat, cook and stir until thickened. (Makes about 1/4 cup)

Bohemian Macaroni and Cheese recipe.

Ingredients
2 (7.25 ounce) packages dry macaroni and cheese
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped
1 pound bacon - cooked and crumbled

Directions
Prepare both boxes of macaroni and cheese according to package directions.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl mix together the chopped bell green pepper, onion, tomato, and crumbled bacon.
Mix in prepared macaroni and cheese to large bowl with vegetables and bacon. Stir to incorporate ingredients evenly. Pour into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Bake in a preheated 350 degree F (175 degree C) oven for 45 to 60 minutes, or until crispy on top. Serve warm.

Black Bean, Sausage, and Sweet Potato Soup recipe.

Ingredients
5 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 cups dry black beans
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon water
1/4 pound Italian sausage, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 pound sweet potatoes
3 green onions
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste

Directions
In a 4 quart saucepan, combine beans, garlic, bay leaf, allspice, broth and 5 1/2 cups water. Cook, partially covered, until beans are tender, about 50 minutes. Discard bay leaf.
In a blender puree 1 cup cooked beans with 1 cup cooking liquid, and return to pan.
In a small bowl, stir together tomato paste and 1 tablespoon water; stir into beans with sausage and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer soup, covered, for 15 minutes. Soup may be prepared up to this point 3 days ahead.
While soup is simmering, peel sweet potatoes and cut into 1/2 inch pieces. Steam until tender, about 10 minutes. Stir potatoes, 3 chopped scallions, and salt and pepper to taste into soup. Serve soup garnished with scallion greens.

Baked Salmon II recipe.

Ingredients
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 tablespoons light olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
2 (6 ounce) fillets salmon

Directions
In a medium glass bowl, prepare marinade by mixing garlic, light olive oil, basil, salt, pepper, lemon juice and parsley. Place salmon fillets in a medium glass baking dish, and cover with the marinade. Marinate in the refrigerator about 1 hour, turning occasionally.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Place fillets in aluminum foil, cover with marinade, and seal. Place sealed salmon in the glass dish, and bake 35 to 45 minutes, until easily flaked with a fork.

Betty's Broccoli Casserole recipe.

Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) bag frozen broccoli florets
1/2 (16 ounce) bag frozen chopped broccoli
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened and cut into pieces
1 cup dry bread crumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
1 (2.25 ounce) package slivered almonds

Directions
Preheat an oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
Pour 1 or 2 tablespoons of water into a saucepan, and bring to a boil. Place the broccoli florets and chopped broccoli into the saucepan with the water, cover, and cook over medium heat until thawed, about 5 minutes. Drain off the water, and stir the cream cheese into the hot broccoli. Spread the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Mix the bread crumbs with butter in a bowl, and spread over the broccoli in an even layer. Sprinkle the top with almonds, and bake in the preheated oven until the top is browned and the dish is bubbling, 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Broiled Sweet and Tangy Tilapia recipe.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
3 teaspoons lemon juice, divided
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon raspberry vinegar
2 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon chopped fresh tarragon
salt and pepper to taste
1 pound tilapia fillets

Directions
Preheat the oven broiler. Place a sheet of aluminum foil on a baking sheet, and coat with 2 tablespoons butter.
In a bowl, whisk together 1 teaspoon lemon juice, melted butter, mustard, raspberry vinegar, honey, tarragon, salt, and pepper.
Place the tilapia on the prepared baking sheet, and broil about 3 minutes in the preheated oven. Turn tilapia, and drizzle with about half the lemon juice dressing mixture. Continue broiling about 3 minutes, turn, and drizzle with remaining dressing. Continue broiling about 2 minutes, or until fish is easily flaked with a fork. Remove from heat, and sprinkle with remaining lemon juice to serve.

Amaretto Cake recipe.

Ingredients
1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
1 (5.1 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
2 tablespoons amaretto liqueur
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 cup amaretto liqueur
1 cup sifted confectioners' sugar

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 10 inch Bundt pan.
In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, instant vanilla pudding, water, oil, almond extract, and 2 tablespoons of the amaretto; blend together well. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
Bake in preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of cake comes out clean. Remove cake from oven and while it is still warm, poke holes in the surface. Drizzle with the Amaretto Glaze, insuring that some of the glaze fills the holes. Let the cake cool for at least 2 hours before removing from the pan.
To make Amaretto Glaze: Sift the confectioners' sugar, and combine it with the remaining 1/2 cup amaretto. Blend until smooth. You may add more amaretto as needed.

Broccoli-Cauliflower Toss recipe.

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1/2 cup fresh cauliflowerets
1/2 cup sliced carrots
1/4 cup water
1 cup cubed cooked chicken
6 cherry tomatoes, halved
2/3 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons honey
1 teaspoon minced fresh basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions
In a large covered saucepan, steam broccoli, cauliflower and carrots in water for 2-3 minutes; drain. Place in a bowl; add chicken and tomatoes. Combine dressing ingredients; pour over salad. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours, stirring occasionally. Drain before serving.

Bacon for the Family or a Crowd recipe.

Ingredients
1 pound thick sliced bacon

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Arrange bacon on baking sheet in a single layer with the edges touching or slightly overlapping.
Bake in preheated oven to desired degree of doneness, 10 to 15 minutes. Remove bacon from the baking sheet with tongs or a fork, and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies I recipe.

Ingredients
3 cups margarine, softened
2 1/2 cups white sugar
2 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
8 cups all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
4 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, cream together margarine, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs and vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to egg mixture, and mix well. Stir in chocolate chips. Instead of just dropping them onto the cookie sheet, I roll the cookies into balls - it makes them all look very uniform and nice!
Bake in preheated oven for 12 to15 minutes, or until light brown. Cool on a wire rack.

Best Ziti Ever recipe.

Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package ziti pasta
1 pound mild Italian sausage, casings removed
2 (24 ounce) jars marinara sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil, divided
12 ounces ricotta cheese
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
1 dash salt and pepper
1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
Place sausage in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside. In a large saucepan, heat marinara with 1 teaspoon basil until bubbling. In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt and pepper.
Spread bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish with sauce. Layer 1/2 of the ziti, 1/2, the sausage, 1/2 of the ricotta, and 1/2 the mozzarella. Spoon half of the sauce over top. Repeat layers. Sprinkle top with remaining 1/2 teaspoons basil and Italian seasoning.
Bake in preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes.

Addictive Sweet Potato Burritos recipe.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups canned kidney beans, drained
2 cups water
3 tablespoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
4 teaspoons prepared mustard
1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
3 tablespoons soy sauce
4 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
12 (10 inch) flour tortillas, warmed
8 ounces shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Heat oil in a medium skillet, and saute onion and garlic until soft. Stir in beans, and mash. Gradually stir in water, and heat until warm. Remove from heat, and stir in the chili powder, cumin, mustard, cayenne pepper and soy sauce.
Divide bean mixture and mashed sweet potatoes evenly between the warm flour tortillas. Top with cheese. Fold up tortillas burrito style, and place on a baking sheet.
Bake for 12 minutes in the preheated oven, and serve.

Bistro Veal Burgers recipe.

Ingredients
1 slice bread, torn into small pieces
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 basil leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon pepper
1 pound ground veal
4 (1 ounce) slices Cheddar or pepper jack cheese (optional)
4 hamburger buns

Directions
Place torn bread into a bowl and sprinkle with milk and Worcestershire sauce. Mix in egg until combined. Season with basil, rosemary, and pepper. Mix in veal until evenly mixed. Shape veal mixture into four patties.
Preheat a grill for medium heat.
Lightly oil the hot grill. Grill veal burgers to desired degree of doneness, about 5 minutes per side for medium. Place a slice of cheese on each burger, and allow to melt for about 1 minute before serving on buns.

Bread Pretzels recipe.

Ingredients
1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
1/2 teaspoon white sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups bread flour
1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons kosher salt

Directions
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine yeast mixture, sugar, salt and 1 cup flour; beat well. Beat in the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a stiff dough is formed. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in volume.
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Lightly grease a cookie sheet.
Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 12 pieces. Roll pieces out into long sticks and form into pretzel shape. Place pretzels on prepared baking sheet. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with kosher salt.
Bake in preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until golden brown.

Apple and Pumpkin Dessert recipe.

Ingredients
2 (1 gram) packets sugar substitute
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 Granny Smith apple - peeled, cored and chopped
1/4 cup canned pumpkin
2 tablespoons water

Directions
Sprinkle 1/3 packet of sugar substitute and 1/3 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice in the bottom of a microwave-safe bowl. Layer 1/4 of the apple pieces into the bowl; repeat. Spread the pumpkin over the apples. Sprinkle the remaining sugar substitute and pumpkin pie spice on the pumpkin. Top with the remaining apples. Pour the water over the mixture.
Cook in microwave on high for 3 1/2 minutes, stirring every minute.

Blueberry Dump Cake recipe.

Ingredients
1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
4 cups fresh blueberries
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Mix berries, sugar, and cinnamon in the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch pan. Cover berries with dry cake mix. Pour butter over cake mix, do not stir.
Bake for 30 minutes, or until light brown. Serve warm or cold. top with ice cream.

Billy's Pasta Salad recipe.

Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package rainbow rotini pasta
2 cups shredded cooked chicken meat
2 stalks celery, diced
1 red onion, diced
2 cups mayonnaise
salt and pepper to taste

Directions
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain, and rinse with cold water to cool.
Stir together chicken, celery, onion, and mayonnaise; fold in cold pasts, and season to taste with salt and pepper. Place in refrigerator, and let rest for at least an hour before serving.

Banana Pecan Cake recipe.

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups sugar
3/4 cup shortening
1 cup mashed bananas
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups cake flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup chopped pecans
PECAN FILLING:
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup light cream
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
FLUFFY FROSTING:
1 egg white
1/4 cup shortening
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups confectioners' sugar

Directions
In a large mixing bowl, cream sugar and shortening. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Blend in bananas and vanilla. Sift flour; then sift together with baking powder, soda and salt. Add alternately with buttermilk to the creamed mixture. Stir in nuts. Pour into two greased and floured 9-in. round cake pans. Sprinkle coconut on top of each cake. Bake at 375 degrees F for 25-30 minutes or until cakes test done. Cool in pans 10 minutes; remove and cool completely. For filling, combine sugar, flour, cream and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until thick. Add nuts, salt and vanilla; cool. Spread filling on one cake layer with coconut side up. Place second layer, coconut side up, on top. For frosting, beat egg white, shortening, butter and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Frost sides of cake only. If desired, cake can be made without frosting.

Apricot Muffins recipe.

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
2 teaspoons grated orange peel

Directions
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, combine the eggs, milk and oil; mix well. Stir into dry ingredients just until combined. Fold in apricots and orange peel. Fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full.
Bake at 400 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack. Serve warm.

Amber Beer Cheese Dip recipe.

Ingredients
2 (10 ounce) packages extra-sharp Cheddar cheese (such as Cracker Barrel�), shredded
3 tablespoons minced garlic
1 (12 ounce) bottle amber beer
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste

Directions
Place the shredded cheese and garlic in the bowl of a food processor. With food processor running, slowly pour in the beer, scraping sides of the bowl as necessary; process until evenly blended. Season with cayenne pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl, cover, and chill until ready to serve.

Best Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup recipe.

Ingredients
2 (3 pound) whole chickens, cut into pieces
3 quarts water
3 onions, minced
1 cup chopped celery
2 1/2 tablespoons salt
1 1/4 teaspoons ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 ears fresh corn
1 cup sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 cup milk

Directions
In a large pot over medium heat, combine chicken, water, onions, celery, salt, nutmeg and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 2 hours, adding water as needed, until chicken is very tender. Remove the chicken from the soup. Refrigerate chicken and soup.
When fat solidifies on surface of soup, remove from refrigerator and remove fat. Remaining soup should equal about 2 1/2 quarts.
Remove corn from cobs by splitting kernels lengthwise with a sharp knife and scraping corn from cob. Combine soup and corn in a large pot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until corn is tender, 10 to 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, place two of the eggs in a small saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and immediately remove from heat. Cover and let eggs stand in hot water for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from hot water, cool, peel and chop. Set aside.
Chop cooled chicken meat and add to soup.
In a medium bowl, beat remaining egg until light in color. Beat in flour and milk until smooth. Drop batter by partial spoonfuls into hot broth to make small (1/4 -1/2 inch round) dumplings. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2 to 5 minutes, until dumplings hold their shape and float to the surface. Stir in reserved cooked egg.

5.30.2011

Banana Mallow Pie recipe.

Ingredients
1 3/4 cups cold milk
1 pkg. (4 serving size) JELL-O Vanilla Flavor Instant Pudding & Pie Filling
2 cups JET-PUFFED Miniature Marshmallows
1 cup thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
2 medium bananas, sliced
1 (6 ounce) HONEY MAID Graham Pie Crust

Directions
Pour milk into large bowl. Add pudding mix; beat with wire whisk 2 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes. Add marshmallows and whipped topping; stir gently until well blended.
Place banana slices in crust; cover with pudding mixture.
Refrigerate at least 1 hour. Cut into 8 slices to serve. Store leftover pie in refrigerator.

Brown Rice Pudding recipe.

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 1/4 cups water
1/2 cup short-grain brown rice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
3 egg yolks
1/4 cup white sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions
Bring the heavy cream, water, brown rice, and salt to a boil in a pot; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the liquid is completely absorbed, about 80 minutes. Fold the raisins into the mixture and continue cooking until the raisins plump, about 10 minutes more.
Whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and cinnamon together in a bowl; slowly pour into the pot with the rice while stirring. Cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 6 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.

Bob's Habanero Hot Sauce - Liquid Fire recipe.

Ingredients
12 habanero peppers, seeded and chopped
1 (15.5 ounce) can sliced peaches in heavy syrup
1/2 cup dark molasses
1/2 cup yellow mustard
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 cup distilled white vinegar
2 tablespoons salt
2 tablespoons paprika
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

Directions
Place the peppers, peaches, molasses, mustard, brown sugar, and vinegar into the container of a food processor or blender. Measure in the salt, paprika, pepper, cumin, coriander, ginger and allspice. Blend until liquefied. Pour into clean jars, and refrigerate overnight before using.

Baked Squash and Maple Syrup recipe.

Ingredients
3 1/2 pounds butternut squash
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup diced onion
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup chicken stock
1/3 cup real maple syrup

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Place squash halves, cut side up, on large baking sheet. bake until very tender, about 50 minutes. Remove from oven and cool slightly. Using large spoon, scoop out squash flesh and transfer to large bowl.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add chopped onion and ground nutmeg and saute until onion is tender and light brown, about 10 minutes. Transfer to bowl with squash. Add chicken broth and maple syrup.
Puree mixture in batches in processor until smooth. Season squash puree with salt and pepper. Return puree to same saucepan. Stir puree over medium heat until heated through. Transfer to bowl and serve.

Barbequed Hamburgers recipe.

Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup uncooked rolled oats
2/3 cup evaporated milk
2 tablespoons minced onion
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons vinegar
4 teaspoons granulated sugar
2/3 cup ketchup
1/4 cup chopped onion
3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions
In a medium bowl, mix the ground beef, oats, milk, 2 tablespoons minced onion, salt, and pepper. Let stand for a few minutes until milk is absorbed, and shape into 8 patties.
In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and 1/4 cup chopped onion; set aside.
Heat the oil in a medium skillet over medium heat, and fry the patties until brown on both sides. Pour the sauce in with the patties, and reduce heat. Continue cooking about 15 minutes.

Apple Banana Smoothie recipe.

Ingredients
1 frozen bananas, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup orange juice
1 Gala apple, peeled, cored and chopped
1/4 cup milk

Directions
In a blender combine frozen banana, orange juice, apple and milk. Blend until smooth. pour into glasses and serve.

Bellini Meanie Martini recipe.

Ingredients
1/4 cup good quality vodka
2 fluid ounces peach schnapps
1 cup ice cubes
2 fluid ounces champagne
3 fresh raspberries for garnish

Directions
Pour the vodka and peach schnapps into a shaker with the ice. Shake until frothy. Strain into a martini glass, and top off with champagne. Garnish with fresh raspberries.

Absolutely the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup butter flavored shortening
3/4 cup white sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons Mexican vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk chocolate chips

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter flavored shortening, brown sugar and white sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well with each addition, then stir in the vanilla .Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; gradually stir into the creamed mixture. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips. Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto the prepared cookie sheets.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, until light brown. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

Baked Pumpkin Pudding recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup egg substitute
2 cups canned cooked pumpkin
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 1/2 cups fat-free evaporated milk
5 tablespoons reduced-fat whipped topping

Directions
In a bowl, beat the egg substitute, pumpkin, sugar, honey and spices until blended. Gradually beat in milk. Pour into five 8-oz. custard cups coated with nonstick cooking spray. Place in a 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan.
Bake, uncovered, at 425 degrees F for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees F. Bake 30-35 minutes longer or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Serve warm or cold. Garnish with whipped topping. Store in the refrigerator.

Apple Fritters recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup cake flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup milk
3/4 cup chopped, peeled tart apple
4 teaspoons butter or margarine, melted
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon orange juice
2 teaspoons grated orange peel
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
oil for frying
confectioners' sugar

Directions
In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat egg and milk. Add the apple, butter, sugar, orange juice, peel and vanilla; mix well. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat 1/4 in. of oil to 375 degrees F. Drop batter by rounded tablespoons into oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels. Dust with confectioners' sugar. Serve warm.

Becca's Bruschetta recipe.

Ingredients
1 loaf French bread, sliced
1/2 sweet onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 (2.25 ounce) can sliced black olives, drained
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
2 large fresh tomatoes, diced
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. In a bowl, mix the onion, garlic, olives, 2 tablespoons olive oil, oregano, basil, and parsley. Gently toss in the tomatoes. Top bread slices with the tomato mixture. Sprinkle with feta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with remaining olive oil.
Bake 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until cheese is melted and bread is lightly toasted.

Banana Oat and Bran Cookies recipe.

Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup wheat bran
1/4 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt
1/8 cup real maple syrup
2 egg whites
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup raisins

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Beat mashed bannanas, egg whites, brown sugar, maple syrup, yogurt, and cinnamon.
Combine the remaining dry ingredients: flour, oats, wheat bran, salt and baking powder in a separate bowl. Use an electric mixer to combine dry ingredients with wet mixture.
Add in raisins, chopped prunes, and/ or nuts.
Roll cookies into balls, place on a cookie sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake for 8-12 minutes until cookies are firm and dry.

Bow Tie Pasta with Broccoli, Garlic, and Lemon recipe.

Ingredients
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 (8 ounce) package farfalle (bow tie) pasta
1 head broccoli, cut into florets
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
Warm olive oil in a small frying pan over low heat. Slowly cook garlic in oil until golden, about 2 to 3 minutes. Be very careful not to burn garlic. Stir in lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, cook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water. About 5 minutes before pasta is done, drop broccoli into the pasta water. Continue to cook until pasta is cooked and broccoli is crisp-tender. Drain.
Toss pasta, broccoli, and lemon sauce in a large bowl. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Apple Cabbage Slaw recipe.

Ingredients
6 cups shredded cabbage
3 medium red apples, chopped
1 (5 ounce) can evaporated milk
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons grated onion
1 teaspoon celery seed
1/2 teaspoon salt
Dash pepper

Directions
In a large bowl, toss the cabbage and apples. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Pour over cabbage mixture and toss to coat. Refrigerate until serving.

Bird's Nests III recipe.

Ingredients
4 cups chow mein noodles
3 cups miniature marshmallows
3 tablespoons butter
30 small jellybeans

Directions
Line a cookie sheet with foil and grease with spray-on cooking oil.
Pour noodles into a large bowl. Melt the butter and marshmallows over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Pour marshmallow mixture over noodles, stirring until well coated.
Rub some butter on hands and form noodle mixture into six round balls. Place balls on prepared cookie sheet. With the back of a teaspoon, press the center of each ball to make a hollow indentation.
Let nests set until they are firm. Fill each with small jelly beans. (Other small candies of your choice may be substituted, such as M & M's, small gumdrops, chocolate covered raisins, chocolate covered peanuts, etc.)

Blueberry Streusel Coffee Cake recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 3/4 cups sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups milk
3 cups fresh or frozen blueberries*
STREUSEL TOPPING:
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/3 cup cold butter or margarine

Directions
In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk. Fold in blueberries. Pour into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan.
For topping, combine sugar and cinnamon. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over batter. Bake at 375 degrees F for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pan on a wire rack.

Apricot Brandy, Peach Schnapps Pound Cake recipe.

Ingredients
3 cups white sugar
1 cup butter
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup apricot brandy
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 cup white sugar
1 cup water
1/2 cup peach schnapps
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 cup apricot preserves
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 cup apricot brandy

Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease and flour a 10 inch tube pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light. Beat in the eggs, one at a time. Stir in the lemon zest and sour cream. Sift together the flour, baking soda and salt, stir into the creamed mixture alternately with the brandy. Put the batter into the prepared tube pan.
Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Cake will spring back to the touch when done. To make the syrup, use the second set of ingredients. Combine the sugar, water, peach schnapps, and lemon zest in a small saucepan over medium high heat. Bring to a boil for 1 minute. Turn the cake out onto a wire rack. Place cake in the upside down position, and place a cookie sheet under the wire rack. Poke holes in the bottom of the cake with a fork. Pour the syrup over the entire cake, until all of the syrup is absorbed. Let cake stand for a few minutes.
To make the topping for the cake, use the third set of ingredients. In a small saucepan, combine the apricot or peach preserves, apricot brandy and lemon zest. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Let the mixture boil for 1 minute. Turn the cake over onto a serving plate, drizzle the warm glaze over the top. Serve warm or cooled.

Butter Flaky Pie Crust recipe.

Ingredients
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup ice water

Directions
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in water, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture forms a ball. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
Roll dough out to fit a 9 inch pie plate. Place crust in pie plate. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and sides of the pie plate.

Apricot Chicken II recipe.

Ingredients
6 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
1 cup apricot preserves
1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Place the chicken breasts in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Combine the apricot preserves, vinegar and brown sugar. Pour the preserve mixture over the chicken, cover and bake for 50 minutes. Remove cover and bake for 10 more minutes.

Black Beans with Pico de Gallo recipe.

Ingredients
1 large tomato, diced
2 tablespoons chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
1/2 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon lime juice
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon bacon grease
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons minced red onion
1 (15.5 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons water

Directions
Stir together the tomato, onion, cilantro, and honey. Season with lime juice, vinegar, salt and pepper; set aside.
Melt bacon grease in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in garlic and onion, cook until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. Pour in the black beans and water, season to taste with salt and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes or until hot. Serve topped with pico de gallo.

Burgundy Stroganoff recipe.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons margarine
2 pounds beef round steak, cut into thin strips
1/4 cup all-purpose flour for dusting
1 medium onion, sliced
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup Burgundy wine
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
1 (12 ounce) package wide egg noodles
3/4 cup sour cream

Directions
Melt margarine in a large skillet over medium heat. Add beef strips, and fry until browned. Stir in onion and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes, or until softened. Sprinkle flour over the meat, and stir into the pan juices until blended. Gradually mix in the beef broth, Burgundy, tomato paste and thyme. Reduce heat to low, and simmer for 40 to 45 minutes.
During the last 15 minutes of the cooking, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles, and cook until tender, about 7 minutes.
Remove the burgundy beef from the heat and stir in sour cream. Serve over hot egg noodles.

Broccoli Soup recipe.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
2 (10 ounce) packages chopped frozen broccoli, thawed
1 potato, peeled and chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
salt and pepper to taste

Directions
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan, and saute onion and garlic until tender. Mix in broccoli, potato, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
With a hand mixer or in a blender, puree the mixture until smooth. Return to the saucepan, and reheat. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

Andalusian Gazpacho recipe.

Ingredients
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
5 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tomatoes, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 1/2 cups navy beans, rinsed and drained
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 (46 fluid ounce) can tomato juice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
1 tablespoon minced fresh basil
1/2 tablespoon minced fresh oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions
In a 4-quart serving bowl or soup tureen, combine cucumber, bell pepper, green onion, garlic, tomatoes, celery, navy beans, olive oil, vinegar and tomato juice Season with cumin, parsley, basil, oregano and salt. Adjust spices and seasonings to taste. Chill in refrigerator at least 4 hours before serving cold.

Braised Celery recipe.

Ingredients
1 bunch celery, cleaned and cut into 4 inch pieces
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 cube chicken bouillon
1 cup boiling water
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley

Directions
Arrange the celery in a single layer on the bottom of a large skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Dot with butter. Dissolve the bouillon cube in boiling water, and pour over the celery.
Cover pan, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, and simmer for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Bird Seed Squares recipe.

Ingredients
3/4 cup peanut butter
3/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups crisp rice cereal
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 cup coconut
3/4 cup sesame seeds
3/4 cup sunflower seeds

Directions
In a large bowl, combine the cocoa powder, rice cereal, oats, coconut, and sesame seeds. Set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, stir together the peanut butter, brown sugar, honey, and vanilla. Cook and stir until melted and loose. Pour over the cereal mixture, and stir to coat evenly. Press lightly into a buttered 9x13 inch baking dish. Cool for about 1 hour to firm, then cut into squares.

Ambrosia Bites recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 cup sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon grated orange peel
1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup raisins
1 cup chopped dates
1 cup flaked coconut

Directions
In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugars. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in peels and vanilla. Combine flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in remaining ingredients.
Drop by heaping tablespoonfuls 3 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees F for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool.

Aunt Betty's Banana Pudding recipe.

Ingredients
2 (3.4 ounce) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (8 ounce) container sour cream
1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
6 bananas, sliced
1/2 (12 ounce) package vanilla wafers

Directions
In a medium bowl, combine pudding mix and milk and stir until mix is dissolved. Refrigerate 15 minutes, until partially set.
Stir condensed milk into pudding mixture until smooth. Fold in sour cream and whipped topping. Fold in bananas.
Make a single layer of vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9x13 inch dish. Spread pudding evenly over wafers. Crush remaining wafers and sprinkle on top. Refrigerate until serving.

Bridal Shower Cake recipe.

Ingredients
3/4 cup butter
2 cups white sugar
3 cups sifted cake flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 egg whites

Directions
Grease two eight inch round cake pans. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Sift flour with baking powder and salt, and add to creamed mixture alternately with milk. Beat well. Stir in vanilla.
In a large glass or metal mixing bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold 1/3 of the whites into the batter, then quickly fold in remaining whites until no streaks remain. Divide batter into prepared pans.
Bake for about 25 minutes. Cool. Cover with white butter icing, and decorate as desired. Makes 15 to 20 servings.

Butterscotch Candy recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup water
2 teaspoons vinegar
1 pinch salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions
Generously butter a 10x15 inch baking pan (with sides).
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, white sugar, water, vinegar and salt. Cover and bring to a boil. Remove lid and heat, without stirring, to 270 to 290 degrees F (132 to 143 degrees C), or until a small amount of syrup dropped into cold water forms hard but pliable threads. Pour in vanilla, but do not stir. Remove from heat and pour into prepared pan. Let cool slightly before cutting into squares and allowing candy to cool completely.

Breakfast Bread Pudding recipe.

Ingredients
12 slices white bread
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
2 cups milk
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions
Remove and discard crusts from bread; cut bread into cubes. Toss lightly with cream cheese cubes; place in a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs. Add milk, syrup and salt; mix well. Pour over bread mixture. Cover and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Bake, uncovered, at 375 degrees F for 40-45 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. Let stand 5 minutes before cutting.

Barbecued Alaskan Salmon recipe.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 teaspoons soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon pepper
4 salmon steaks (1 inch thick)

Directions
In a small saucepan, combine the first six ingredients. Cook and stir until sugar is dissolved.
Meanwhile, grill salmon, covered, over medium-hot heat for 5 minutes. Turn salmon; baste with the butter sauce. Grill 7-9 minutes longer, turning and basting occasionally, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Black Olive and Goat Cheese Croustade recipe.

Ingredients
1 teaspoon unsalted butter
1/4 cup leeks, diced
1/4 cup Lindsay� Black Ripe Pitted Olives, diced
1 (10 ounce) package prepared pizza dough
3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon oregano, chopped

Directions
Heat butter in a small saute pan over medium heat. Add leeks and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Remove from heat and stir in olives. Set aside.
Cut pizza dough into 20 (1/2 ounce) pieces. Shape into 2-inch circles and place on a lightly greased parchment lined baking sheet. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 7-8 minutes.
Remove from oven and spread each disk with olive mixture. Top with goat cheese and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes at 400 degrees. Sprinkle with fresh herbs just before serving.

Baked Eggplant Sandwiches recipe.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 cups panko bread crumbs
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup water
1 large long eggplant, cut crosswise into 1/3 inch thick slices
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
5 ounces fresh goat cheese
1 cup shredded sharp provolone cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup pomegranate molasses

Directions
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). Coat two large baking sheets with olive oil.
In a medium bowl, stir together the panko crumbs, salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Place the flour in a third bowl. Coat each slice of eggplant with flour, shaking off the excess, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with panko crumbs. Place on the oiled baking sheets.
Bake for 12 minutes in the preheated oven, then turn over the slices and bake for an additional 12 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool slightly, but leave the oven on.
While the eggplant is baking, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion; cook and stir until almost tender, then add the garlic. Cook for just about 1 minute. Remove from the heat and stir in the goat cheese, provolone cheese, parsley and basil. Season with pepper.
Divide the cheese mixture among 8 slices of the eggplant (half). Spread to cover, then top with remaining eggplant slices, pressing to compact. Return to the baking sheets.
Bake in the preheated oven until eggplant is crisp, about 15 minutes. Place two sandwiches onto each serving plate, and drizzle with pomegranate molasses.

5.29.2011

Becca's Taco Soup recipe.

Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
4 cups tomato juice
1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
1/2 (1.25 ounce) package taco seasoning mix

Directions
In a large pot over medium high heat, combine the ground beef and the onions. Saute for about 5 minutes, or until onions are tender. Add the tomato juice, corn, beans, tomato sauce and taco seasoning. Stir well and heat throughout, but do not boil.

Bacon Onion Turnovers recipe.

Ingredients
3 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water (110 degrees F to 115 degrees F)
1 cup warm milk (110 to 115 degrees F)
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
2 teaspoons salt
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 pound sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 large onion, diced
1 egg, lightly beaten

Directions
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the milk, butter and salt; beat until smooth. Stir in enough flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 30 minutes.
Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divided into 30 pieces. Roll each into a 4-in. circle. Combine bacon and onion; place about 2 teaspoons on one side of each circle. Fold dough over filling; press edges with a fork to seal. Place 3 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 20 minutes.
Brush with egg. Bake at 425 degrees F for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks. Serve warm.

Baked Miniature Pumpkins recipe.

Ingredients
1 small sugar pumpkin
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon butter
2 pinches ground cinnamon

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Cut off the top of the pumpkin and scrape out all the seeds. Place the butter or margarine and brown sugar inside the pumpkin and sprinkle with ground cinnamon. Put the pumpkin lid back on and place pumpkin in a baking pan with a little water in the bottom.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 30 minutes or until tender. These can also be baked in the microwave on high for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Asparagus in Vinaigrette recipe.

Ingredients
2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2 inch pieces
2 green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons diced green bell pepper
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 garlic clove, minced
1/3 cup olive or vegetable oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon diced onion
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Directions
Place asparagus in a steamer basket. Place in a saucepan over 1 in. of water; bring to a boil. Cover ad steam for 6-8 minutes or until crisp-tender. Rinse with cold water; drain well. Place in a bowl; add the green onions, green pepper, pickle relish and garlic.
In a small bowl, whisk the oil, lemon juice, onion, parsley, salt and pepper. Pour over asparagus mixture and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate until chilled. Serve with a slotted spoon.

Blanc Mange (English Style) recipe.

Ingredients
3 cups milk, divided
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
2 cinnamon sticks
1 lemon peel, cut into strips
1 pinch ground cinnamon
3 ounces shaved semisweet chocolate, for garnish

Directions
Place 1 cup of the milk into a saucepan. Add lemon peel and cinnamon sticks. Bring milk to a simmer over medium heat.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and sugar. Whisk remaining milk into the cornstarch mixture. When the milk in the pan begins to simmer, pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan in a thin steady stream. Whisk vigorously and increase heat just a bit to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow the mixture to boil for about 20 seconds while continuing to whisk, then remove from heat. Remove the lemon peel and cinnamon sticks. Stir in the pinch of cinnamon and, if using, the vanilla.
Pour into a dish or mold, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight. Garnish with shaved chocolate just before serving.

Angel Hair Shrimp Bake recipe.

Ingredients
1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated angel hair pasta
1 1/2 pounds uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1 (16 ounce) jar chunky salsa
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
3/4 cup minced fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 cup half-and-half cream
1 cup plain yogurt

Directions
In a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish, layer half of the pasta, shrimp, feta cheese, Swiss cheese and salsa. Repeat layers. Sprinkle with Monterey Jack cheese, parsley, basil and oregano.
In a small bowl, whisk eggs, cream and yogurt; pour over casserole. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes or until shrimp turn pink and pasta is tender. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Apple Sausage Ring recipe.

Ingredients
3/4 cup milk
2 cups crushed butter-flavored crackers
1 1/2 cups chopped, peeled tart apples
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
2 pounds bulk pork sausage

Directions
In a large bowl, beat eggs and milk. Stir in the cracker crumbs, apples and onion. Crumble sausage over mixture and mix well. On a 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan coated with nonstick cooking spray, shape pork mixture into a 9-in. ring. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 1 hour or until a meat thermometer reads 160 degrees F; drain.

Black Bean and Granny Smith Apple Salad recipe.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
2 Granny Smith apples, unpeeled, cored, and chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Directions
Heat the canola oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir the onion and red bell pepper in the hot oil until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes; season with cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper. Scrape into a mixing bowl; stir in the black beans, apples, lemon juice, and cilantro. Refrigerate until cold before serving.

Anise Cookies I recipe.

Ingredients
6 3/4 cups white sugar
4 cups shortening
2 cups milk
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 ounces anise oil
21 cups all-purpose flour

Directions
Cream sugar and shortening, add eggs one at a time. In a separate bowl mix milk, baking soda, and anise oil. Add to cream mixture. Mix well. Gradually add the flour, mixing well.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).
Refrigerate long enough to clean up mess. Leave dough in refrigerator. Take small amounts to roll out, 1/8 inch thick. Cut out in any desired shapes.
Bake 10 to 12 minutes until edges begin to brown. Allow to cool, and frost with Easy Creamy Frosting.

Bekki's Mexican Egg Rolls recipe.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 pound ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning
1 (8 ounce) jar taco sauce
4 (16 ounce) packages egg roll wrappers
1 (1 pound) loaf processed cheese food (i.e. Velveeta�), cut into 1/4 inch thick slices
2 egg whites, lightly beaten
2 quarts canola oil

Directions
Place the vegetable oil and ground beef into a large skillet; cook over medium-high heat until the meat is evenly browned and no longer pink. Reduce the heat to medium. Mix in the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the taco seasoning and taco sauce. Continue to cook and stir the mixture until the sauce begins to bubble, about 5 minutes more.
Working on a clean, flat surface, place 1 egg roll wrapper with a corner facing you. Place 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of the wrapper and top with a slice of cheese. Fold the corner closest to you over the meat mixture and roll the wrapper over the mixture 1-1/2 times. Fold in the two opposite side corners and continue rolling the wrapper so it covers these corners, tucking them in. Dip two fingers in the egg whites and brush the remaining corner, pressing it to seal. Repeat these steps with a second egg roll wrapper. Let the egg roll rest briefly so the egg white dries and holds the last corner in place.
If the egg rolls will not be served right away, preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Line a heat-proof dish with paper towels.
Pour the canola oil into a large wok set over medium-high heat. When the oil begins to shimmer, carefully slip two to three egg rolls into the wok. Cook until the wrappers turn golden brown and bubble slightly, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Use a slotted spoon or strainer to remove from the wok. Place the egg rolls in the prepared dish and put the dish in the heated oven, making sure to remove it after 15 minute or lower the temperature. Continue cooking the remaining egg rolls.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe.

Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
2 tablespoons water
1 (16 ounce) jar process cheese sauce
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 (8 ounce) cans sliced water chestnuts, drained
4 cups cooked white rice
1 (2.25 ounce) package blanched slivered almonds

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
Place broccoli in saucepan with 2 tablespoons water. Bring water to a boil; reduce heat to medium. Cover; cook 5 minutes. Uncover; cook 2 to 3 more minutes, separating broccoli occasionally. Drain well.
In a small pot, cook cheese and soup together until smooth.
Combine cheese and soup, broccoli, water chestnuts, and rice in the casserole dish. Cover with almonds.
Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly.

Bow Tie Pasta with Sausage and Spinach recipe.

Ingredients
1 pound hot Italian sausage links
1 (12 ounce) package bow-tie pasta (farfalle)
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, chopped
16 ounces Classico� Creamy Alfredo Sauce
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions
Preheat the oven's broiler and set the oven rack at about 6 inches from the heat source. Place the sausage links onto a broiler pan, and broil in the preheated oven until the sausage is crispy on the outside and no longer pink on the inside, about 8 minutes. Turn the sausage once as it cooks.
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the bow-tie pasta, and cook until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and return to the pot along with the spinach; keep warm over medium-low heat.
Heat the olive oil in a separate pot over medium heat, and stir in the garlic, and cook until the garlic softens and the aroma mellows, about 3 minutes. Add the Alfredo sauce and black pepper, then bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cut the cooked sausage into bite-sized pieces, and add to the simmering Alfredo sauce along with the pasta and spinach. Stir until the pasta is hot and well coated with the sauce.

Apricot Nectar Pound Cake recipe.

Ingredients
1 (18.25 ounce) package moist yellow cake mix
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup apricot nectar
1/4 cup apricot brandy
3 tablespoons apricot nectar
3 tablespoons white sugar
2 tablespoons butter

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9 or 10 inch Bundt pan.
In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, eggs, 1/2 cup of sugar, oil, 3/4 cup of apricot nectar and brandy using an electric mixer on low speed. Mix for 3 minutes on high speed. Pour into the prepared pan.
Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the crown of the cake comes out clean. Cool in the pan, then invert onto a serving plate.
To make the icing, combine 3 tablespoons of apricot nectar, 3 tablespoons of sugar and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until butter is melted and sugar has dissolved. Let cool one minute, then pour over the cake.

All-Star Apple Pie recipe.

Ingredients
1 (21 ounce) can apple pie filling
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 (9 inch) pastry shell, baked
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons cold butter or margarine
1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/4 cup quick-cooking oats
2 tablespoons flaked coconut

Directions
In a bowl, combine pie filling, lemon juice and cinnamon; spoon into pastry shell. In another bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar; cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in nuts, oats and coconut; sprinkle over pie filling. Bake at 400 degrees F for 12-15 minutes or until topping is golden brown, covering edge of pastry with foil to prevent overbrowning if needed. Cool on a wire rack before cutting.

Banana Blueberry Muffins recipe.

Ingredients
2 cups whole wheat flour
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups mashed bananas
4 egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh blueberries

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 12 cup muffin pan.
In a large bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and baking soda. In a separate bowl, mix the bananas, egg whites, and vanilla extract.
Mix the banana mixture into the flour mixture until smooth. Fold in the blueberries. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan.
Bake 16 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.

Bacon and Bourbon Thanksgiving Stuffing recipe.

Ingredients
1 pound thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 cup butter
2 large onions, peeled and chopped
5 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons dried rosemary
1 (1 pound) loaf day-old pumpernickel bread, cubed
1 (1 pound) loaf day-old dark rye bread, cubed
8 eggs, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon dried thyme
3 tablespoons dried sage leaves
2 quarts chicken stock (more as needed)
1 cup good quality bourbon whiskey

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease two 9x13 inch baking dishes.
Place the bacon in a large, deep skillet, and cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain on paper towels. Pour bacon fat remaining in the skillet into a bowl.
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the onions, celery, garlic, and rosemary, and cook until onions are soft and transparent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the reserved bacon fat.
Meanwhile, place the pumpernickel and rye bread cubes into a large bowl. Stir in the eggs, thyme, sage, and onion mixture, and toss to mix evenly.
Stir the chicken stock and bourbon together in a bowl. Pour the chicken stock mixture over the bread mixture, adding more stock to reach desired consistency. Use your hands to evenly mix the ingredients together. Spoon stuffing mixture evenly between the prepared baking dishes and pat down lightly.
Bake for 45 minutes in the preheated oven or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If you wish to have a darker crust on top, bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Baked Ziti Casserole recipe.

Ingredients
Nonstick cooking spray
8 ounces dry ziti pasta
1 pound ground sirloin beef
1 (26 ounce) can Hunt's� Four Cheese Pasta Sauce
1 (6 ounce) can Hunt's� Tomato Paste
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray 8x8-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Prepare pasta according to package directions; drain. Cook beef in large skillet over medium-high heat 7 minutes, or until browned and crumbled, stirring frequently; drain. Stir in pasta sauce and tomato paste; blend well.
Spoon 1/2 cup meat sauce into bottom of prepared baking dish. Top with half the pasta, half the remaining sauce, and 1/2 cup cheese. Repeat layers, starting with pasta and ending with cheese.
Bake, uncovered, 10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve immediately.

Barbecued Corn Muffins recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 pound ground beef
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon prepared mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 (8.5 ounce) package corn bread/muffin mix
2/3 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions
In a skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink; drain and place in a bowl. Add brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Prepare corn bread mix according to package directions. Fill greased muffin cups with a scant 2 tablespoons of batter. Top each with 2 tablespoons beef mixture; sprinkle with cheese. Top with remaining corn bread mix. Bake at 400 degrees F for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack. Serve warm. Refrigerate leftovers.

Beer Cheese Soup I recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1 cup sliced celery
1 cup sliced carrots
8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
3/4 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon mustard powder
5 cups chicken broth
1 small head cauliflower
1 (12 fluid ounce) can or bottle beer
8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
salt to taste
ground black pepper to taste

Directions
Saute green onions, celery, carrots, and mushrooms in butter. Mix flour and dry mustard into sauteed vegetables. Add chicken broth, bring to a boil.
Break up cauliflower into bite-size pieces, steam until just tender.
Reduce heat of sauteed vegetables to a simmer, add cauliflower, beer, and cheeses. Simmer 15-20 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Check seasonings.

Beef and Spaghetti Pie recipe.

Ingredients
1 pound spaghetti
1 pound lean ground beef
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
garlic powder to taste
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
26 ounces Classico� Tomato and Basil Sauce
3/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/2 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain and crumble. Put crumbled beef in skillet. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, bell pepper and pasta sauce. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
In a small bowl combine sour cream, green onions and cream cheese and set aside. Coat a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and add the cooked spaghetti. Spread the cream cheese mixture over it, add the meat mixture and sprinkle with Cheddar Cheese.
Cover and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for 5 more minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Burnt Brown Sugar Cake Sauce recipe.

Ingredients
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup hot water

Directions
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Slowly stir the brown sugar into the butter, allowing it to melt completely. Bring to a boil and cook until the sugar caramelizes and gives off a burnt smell, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and pour the hot water into the saucepan; mix until combined. You will have a sauce that is very liquid. Pour over pieces of cake and serve immediately. Best for stale white cake.

Amazing Greek Pasta recipe.

Ingredients
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 (16 ounce) can organic Italian diced tomatoes
1 (6.5 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 tablespoon capers, chopped
15 kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
salt and pepper to taste
crushed red pepper to taste (optional)
crumbled Feta or grated Parmesan Cheese

Directions
In a skillet, cook onion in olive oil over medium high heat until tender and translucent. Stir in garlic, and cook for 1 minute. Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, capers, olives, vinegar, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper (if using).
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, time permitting. Serve over pasta, fish, or chicken, and top with crumbled feta or grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

BREAKSTONE'S Fruit-Filled Coffee Cake recipe.

Ingredients
1 package (2-layer size) white cake mix
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup BREAKSTONE'S Reduced Fat Sour Cream
1/4 cup water
1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling
1/2 cup PLANTERS Sliced Almonds, toasted
1 cup powdered sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons milk

Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Beat first 5 ingredients with mixer until well blended. Pour into greased and floured 13x9-inch pan; top with spoonfuls of pie filling.
Bake 35 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean; sprinkle with nuts. Cool 10 minutes.
Mix sugar and milk; drizzle over cake. Cool completely.

Asian Roll Lettuce Wrap recipe.

Ingredients
1 pound ground turkey
1 tablespoon light soy sauce
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger root
1 cup brown rice
1 cup water
16 large lettuce leaves
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup green onions, thinly sliced
1 cup sliced red bell pepper
1 cup sliced radishes
1/3 cup light soy sauce
1/3 cup water
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger root
1 teaspoon sugar

Directions
In a medium bowl, mix together ground turkey, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon minced garlic and 2 teaspoons ginger. Form into 16 meatballs and roll into ovals. Cover and refrigerate.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine rice with 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice is tender.
Preheat the grill or broiler. Arrange rice, lettuce leaves, carrots, scallions, radishes and red peppers onto a serving platter or place each into a small bowl. In a medium bowl, mix together 1/3 cup soy sauce, 1/3 cup water, lemon juice, 2 teaspoons garlic, 1 tablespoon ginger, and sugar. Divide into 4 small dipping bowls.
Thread two meatballs onto each 10 inch skewer. Grill or broil for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides. If broiling, line the broiler pan with aluminum foil and drain fat after 6 minutes.
To eat, place a leaf of lettuce onto the palm of your hand, spoon on a little rice, then a meat roll, and a few of the vegetables. Roll up and dip in dipping sauce or spoon sauce over.

Blueberry Sherbet recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup sour cream
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups fresh or frozen blueberries, thawed

Directions
In a blender or food processor, combine all ingredients; cover and process until smooth. Press through a sieve; discard the blueberry seeds and skin. Freeze for 8 hours or overnight. Remove from the freezer 30 minutes before serving.

Baked Potato Salad with Dill recipe.

Ingredients
4 baking potatoes
4 ounces fresh bean sprouts
1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
4 celery, thinly sliced
4 radishes, sliced
3 tablespoons chopped fresh dill weed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
4 teaspoons Dijon-style prepared mustard
1/4 teaspoon curry powder

Directions
Preheat over to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Pierce the potatoes with a fork, and bake in the preheated over for about an hour, or until tender. Remove from oven, let cool, and then chill until cold.
Peel and cube the potatoes, and then add to a large bowl along with the bean sprouts, walnuts, celery, radishes, dill weed and parsley.
Whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard and curry powder.
Pour dressing over potato mixture; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Bry's Chocolate Lamb Chili recipe.

Ingredients
1 medium onion, chopped
1 pound lean ground lamb
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 tablespoon dried basil
1 teaspoon cumin
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
2 large cloves garlic, minced
3 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon white sugar
salt and pepper to taste
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
4 cups red beans, with liquid

Directions
In a large pot, cook onions and ground lamb in olive oil over medium heat.
When onions are soft and meat browned, season with red pepper flakes, basil, cumin, cinnamon, garlic, chili powder, dried oregano, cocoa powder, sugar, and bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 1 or 2 minutes. Stir in tomatoes and beans. Increase heat to bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Butter Almond Cookies recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 cup butter
1/3 cup finely chopped blanched almonds
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 tablespoon ground cloves
1/2 tablespoon ground nutmeg
1/2 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons brandy
2 cups all-purpose flour

Directions
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
Cream the butter until light and fluffy. Add the well beaten egg, almonds, sugar, brandy, spices and flour. Mix until mixture is well combined.
On a lightly floured surface roll the mixture to 1/4 inch thick and cut with round cookie cutters dipped in flour. Place cookies onto a parchment lined baking sheet.
Bake at 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly browned.

Boiled Fruit Cake recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup water
4 cups candied mixed fruit
1 cup white sugar
3/4 cup butter
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon mixed spice
2 eggs, beaten

Directions
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan, and line with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Combine the water, mixed fruit, sugar and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, and boil gently for about 10 minutes. Sift the flour, baking soda and mixed spice into a large bowl. Pour in the boiled mixture, and stir until well blended. Mix in the eggs. Pour into the greased loaf pan.
Bake for 90 minutes in the preheated oven, until a skewer or knife inserted into the top comes out clean. Cool cake in the pan for at least 10 minutes before removing.

Black Forest Chocolate Cake recipe.

Ingredients
1 (14 ounce) can fat free sweetened condensed milk
3/4 cup oil substitute
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg white
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup boiling water
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 (21 ounce) can cherry pie filling

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Coat one 12-cup, fluted tube pan with cooking spray.
Combine flour, cocoa, soda, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, combine condensed milk, oil substitute, brown sugar, eggs, and egg white; mix well. Stir flour mixture into milk mixture just until moistened. Gradually add water. Stir in chips. Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until inserted toothpick comes out clean. Cool cake in pan for 10 minutes. Remove from pan, and top with cherry filling.

Almond Peanut Butter Squares recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups whole unblanched almonds

Directions
Line a 9-in. square pan with foil and butter the foil; set aside. Butter the sides of a heavy saucepan; add the sugar, honey and corn syrup. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil, without stirring, for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat; immediately stir in the peanut butter, vanilla and almonds. Pour into prepared pan. Let stand at room temperature until completely cool. Cut into squares. Individually wrap pieces in foil or waxed paper; twist ends.

Brown Sugar and Port Cranberry Sauce recipe.

Ingredients
1 (12 ounce) bag fresh cranberries
3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
1 large orange, juiced and zested
9 tablespoons port wine

Directions
In a large saucepan, combine the cranberries, brown sugar, orange zest and juice, and port wine. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened, about 15 minutes. Cool, and refrigerate overnight before serving.

Broccoli Cheese Soup III recipe.

Ingredients
4 cups fresh broccoli, cut into bite size pieces
1 1/2 quarts chicken broth
2 cups milk
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of celery soup
4 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup cold water
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions
In a large soup pot, cook broccoli in broth until tender, about 10 minutes.
In a medium bowl, mix together milk and condensed celery soup. Blend cornstarch with cold water, then stir into soup mixture. Pour into the pot with the broccoli. Cook over medium heat, stirring steadily until thick and bubbly. Stir in cheese, and simmer, stirring until hot. Do not boil.

Avocado and Bacon Soup recipe.

Ingredients
1/2 pound bacon
1 medium onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 quart chicken stock
2 avocados - peeled, pitted, and chopped
1/2 cup white wine
1 lime, juiced
1 cup heavy cream
salt and pepper to taste

Directions
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until evenly brown. Drain, reserving 1 tablespoon grease in the skillet, chop, and set aside. Place onion and celery in the skillet, and cook until tender.
Transfer the onion and celery to a blender or food processor. Pour in 1/2 the chicken stock, add avocados, and blend until smooth.
Transfer blender mixture to a large pot over medium heat. Whisk in remaining stock, wine, lime juice, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until heated through, but do not boil. Garnish with chopped bacon to serve.

Amish Peanut Butter recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup peanut butter, smooth
1/4 cup marshmallow creme

Directions
In a bowl, mix corn syrup, peanut butter and marshmallow creme until thoroughly combined. Store in an air-tight container.

Balsamic Bruschetta recipe.

Ingredients
8 roma (plum) tomatoes, diced
1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 loaf French bread, toasted and sliced

Directions
In a bowl, toss together the tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Mix in the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper. Serve on toasted bread slices.

Beef Stroganoff II recipe.

Ingredients
1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite size strips
1 onion, chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 1/4 cups fat free sour cream
1 (8 ounce) package egg noodles

Directions
Brown the beef strips in a large skillet over medium high heat and drain excess fat. Add the onion and saute for 5 minutes, or until tender. Stir in the flour, salt, paprika and ground black pepper.
Add the soup, reduce heat to medium low and let simmer for 15 minutes. Then add the sour cream, stirring well.
Prepare egg noodles according to package directions. Serve beef mixture over the egg noodles.

Bacon Wrapped Pork Medallions recipe.

Ingredients
8 slices bacon
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 pounds pork tenderloin
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions
Preheat an oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Place the bacon in a large, oven-safe skillet, and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until lightly browned and still flexible, 6 to 7 minutes. Drain the bacon slices on a paper towel-lined plate. Remove any excess bacon grease from the skillet. Combine garlic powder, seasoning salt, basil, and oregano in a small bowl. Set aside.
Wrap the pork tenderloin with the bacon strips securing with 1 or 2 toothpicks per strip of bacon. Slice the tenderloin between each bacon strip to create the medallions. Dip both sides of the medallions in seasoning mix. Melt butter and oil together in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each medallion for 4 minutes on each side.
Place skillet into the preheated oven and bake until the pork is no longer pink in the center, 17 to 20 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).

Buttercream Frosting recipe.

Ingredients
1 cup butter (no substitutes), softened
8 cups confectioners' sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk

Directions
In a mixing bowl, cream butter. Beat in sugar and vanilla. Add milk until frosting reaches desired consistency.

Beet and Pear Puree recipe.

Ingredients
3 medium beets
5 ounces unsalted butter
1/2 cup minced Vidalia onions
1 1/2 Bosc pears - peeled, cored and minced
2 teaspoons white sugar
3 tablespoons cranberry vinegar
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Wash beets, and place in a roasting pan. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until tender. Set aside to cool.
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in onion, pears, sugar, and vinegar; cook, stirring frequently, for 20 minutes.
When the beets are cool enough to handle, peel and coarsely chop.
Puree onion mixture in a food processor with metal blade. Add salt and 1/2 of the beets; pulse 4 to 5 times. Add remaining beets, and pulse 2 to 3 times.

Asian Twist Chicken Wings recipe.

Ingredients
2 sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup white wine
1/4 cup barbeque sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch
20 chicken wings
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon chili powder
salt and pepper to taste
1 lime, cut into wedges
1 1/2 teaspoons sesame seeds

Directions
Place the sun-dried tomatoes and white wine into a blender; puree until smooth, then pour into a saucepan. Stir in the barbeque sauce, sesame oil, hot pepper sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, and cornstarch. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for several minutes until thickened. Remove from heat, and allow to cool.
While the marinade is cooling, pierce the chicken wings using a fork, and place into a mixing bowl. Toss the chicken wings with the garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the cooled marinade over the wings, and stir to coat. Cover, and refrigerate at least 2 hours.
Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat, and lightly oil the grate.
Remove the chicken wings from the marinade, and shake off excess. Discard the remaining marinade. Cook the wings on the preheated grill until no longer pink at the bone, about 20 minutes. Turn the wings frequently as they cook to ensure even cooking. Place the cooked wings on a serving platter; squeeze the lime wedges over the wings, and sprinkle with sesame seeds to serve.

5.28.2011

Apple Coconut Bread recipe.

Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
3/4 cup soy milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
3 apples, cored and chopped
1/2 cup sweetened dried cranberries (optional)
1 cup flaked coconut

Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg and cinnamon. Make a well in the center, and pour in the soy milk, vanilla and melted butter. Stir just until dry ingredients are moistened. Mix in the apples, dried cranberries and most of the coconut. Reserve a small handful for sprinkling over the top of the loaf. Pour into the prepared loaf pan, and sprinkle reserved coconut on top.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes in the preheated oven, until a knife inserted into the loaf comes out clean. Cool for at least 5 minutes before removing from the pan.

Banana Bran Muffins recipe.

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup oat bran
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup mashed ripe bananas
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions
In a large bowl, combine the first eight ingredients. In another bowl, beat the eggs, juice, sugars and oil. Stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in bananas and nuts. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 400 degrees F for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks. Serve warm.