tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39704991305476615852024-03-24T02:10:29.897-05:00Life's Simple MeasuresAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.comBlogger290125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-56114222554961711982015-01-01T08:00:00.000-06:002015-01-01T08:00:09.484-06:00BIG NEWS! THIS BLOG IS MOVING!<b>. </b>It is with both [slight] sadness and excitement that I am here to inform you I will be taking on a new blogging venture.<div>
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Though LSM will always have a special place in my heart, I am over the moon ecstatic for the change of scenery over at my newest undertaking:</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.pumpkinsandpeonies.com/" target="_blank">Pumpkins & Peonies</a></span></div>
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If you care to join me, click the above link and begin following. Thank you for taking the time to stop by my little blog on this vast world wide web, your support is always more appreciated than you know. Cheers to a New Year and new possibilities! <b>.</b></div>
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Jess Khttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07145870940494498782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-88550558539680291912014-10-11T07:30:00.000-05:002014-10-11T09:55:41.643-05:00#Knighted92014<b>. </b>So the good news is that I am indeed alive. And well.<br />
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And...</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">MARRIED!</span></div>
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Yes, I am now a Mrs! As of September 20, 2014, that is. And I will most definitely give a full synopsis of our wedding day but right now, <b>way</b> too much has gone on and thinking about discussing it all at <i>this</i> moment seems...overwhelming. So let me collect my thoughts and we'll get back to it. Plus...I want to wait until we get our official photographs because I know they'll capture the day unlike anything else! </div>
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But for now, because I can't resist, here are a couple of my favs my aunt took from her point of view:<br />
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I know this is a short post, particularly since I've been on a such a blogging hiatus. But rest assured, <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2014/01/brown-sugar-cinnamon-pop-tarts.html" target="_blank">wedding planning</a> is over and I have regained my life back. <i>Hallelujah</i>!</div>
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And in other exciting news, I have some major things going on with LSM. So for now, blog posts are at a halt. But the revamping that's coming is much needed and will be a more fresh approach to my blogging life. Hopefully you'll agree!</div>
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I've missed blogging and can't wait to share what I've been working on. Love you all! <b>.</b></div>
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<i>P.S. if you care to, check out our hashtag #Knighted92014 on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jessica.wakasugi" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://instagram.com/knight_jess" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, or my <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/knightjess/knighted92014/" target="_blank">Pinterest Board</a> for more of our wedding photos taken by our guests!</i></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3970499130547661585%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D8855055853968029191&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-egoYu-cSO4c%252FVDiPz7H-mXI%252FAAAAAAAAGVY%252FhhsRTDJ841M%252Fs1600%252FAltar.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 139px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 326px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D3970499130547661585%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D8855055853968029191&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-egoYu-cSO4c%252FVDiPz7H-mXI%252FAAAAAAAAGVY%252FhhsRTDJ841M%252Fs1600%252FAltar.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 139px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 326px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com1Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-3869804723801976612014-08-07T18:02:00.000-05:002014-08-07T18:02:21.282-05:00The NY Baking Company Silicone Baking Cups and French Toast Cupcakes<b>. </b>I've been on a baking hiatus for quite some time now. My last few posts have been few and far between, only including a few <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2014/06/as-of-late.html" target="_blank">life updates</a> and <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2014/07/my-june-stitch-fix.html" target="_blank">Stitch Fix reviews</a>. And I don't even know when I found the time to crank those posts out.<br />
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Boo.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJRlxo7pYLjcdG9j2jX4XFoTmPgYG1I3V-mHcdfbLz_P_fUU_Qtw8gCnXv81T6IaNeZfU_QFoY2t57xl1ZGXkk8FA4_zaUJrQO4u6gic0_FezRW_Bwn8fgFmjXk8CZLc_-ovHWFPYFwAZ4/s1600/FTC+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJRlxo7pYLjcdG9j2jX4XFoTmPgYG1I3V-mHcdfbLz_P_fUU_Qtw8gCnXv81T6IaNeZfU_QFoY2t57xl1ZGXkk8FA4_zaUJrQO4u6gic0_FezRW_Bwn8fgFmjXk8CZLc_-ovHWFPYFwAZ4/s1600/FTC+5.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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For those of you around me regularly, you know that the <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/04/i-hearwedding-bells.html" target="_blank">wedding</a> is the <i>only</i> thing swirling in my head these days. Sometimes I feel like it's literally the only thing I can talk about. And although it's been a blast, it's absolutely exhausting. Which leaves next to no energy to even think about whipping out the stand mixer, figuring out which ingredients I need to buy, blah, blah. Sob story, I know. <br />
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But just this last weekend I was finally motivated to get back in the kitchen because 1) Robbie actually <i>requested</i> I make something to bring into his work and 2) <b>I had a product to review</b>!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNXhF2ODCyaGR6VbBnsAt6JnFt30rFPfP78kAVqM3ZAfeY1j-9loMQO6yMbgD4rE545Hcag7cqPTK8iWTx0VxLeSSE_NroL3B5NtpCT_f_62DgKVSkROij7vjGnL1yC75jPY9b2YtAs0u/s1600/Baking+Cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicNXhF2ODCyaGR6VbBnsAt6JnFt30rFPfP78kAVqM3ZAfeY1j-9loMQO6yMbgD4rE545Hcag7cqPTK8iWTx0VxLeSSE_NroL3B5NtpCT_f_62DgKVSkROij7vjGnL1yC75jPY9b2YtAs0u/s1600/Baking+Cups.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Let me present: <i style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Baking-Buddies-Reusable-Silicone-Guarantee/dp/B00EVQ167A" target="_blank">Silicone Baking Cups</a> </i>by <a href="http://thenewyorkbakingcompany.com/" target="_blank">The New York Baking Company</a>.<br />
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For you traditionalists, I'm right there with ya. I never gave these modern silicone baking cups a second glance not only because I love picking out designs to suit the <i>exact </i>situation I'm baking for but because I just didn't trust them. Who knew what those crazy little rubbery things were going to do to my cupcakes?!<br />
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But to be honest...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZAIQCWw_B9nVGx-FugOC1XalYlDfOPu2nu3CY1ZpBCapC9LDOSYU0-2h1UgCS51s1D_4T-Q-yS9AHUCPY4rTg4Y59vS5Uj3h4jKSDLyo111xBnM2oEjxgQWVdWcgJTKCh_6xcsS6WhIUu/s1600/FTC+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZAIQCWw_B9nVGx-FugOC1XalYlDfOPu2nu3CY1ZpBCapC9LDOSYU0-2h1UgCS51s1D_4T-Q-yS9AHUCPY4rTg4Y59vS5Uj3h4jKSDLyo111xBnM2oEjxgQWVdWcgJTKCh_6xcsS6WhIUu/s1600/FTC+6.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
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I've been converted.<br />
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The silicone baking cups work <i>exactly</i> how any regular paper/foil baking cup does, no extra prep or special instructions. And with an investment of only $8.95 for 12 <i>reusable </i>cups, who could argue that's not a steal?! <br />
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So when Robbie requested that I bake something for him to bring to his new work group, I had the perfect opportunity to test out this schnazzy product. And since this would be my baking debut with Robbie's new co-workers, I had to go for a best-ever cupcake recipe.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPXTzosCcvEw8dDAkaTH1uqt1KU8jRLEk8hO0ELDEFO3zO0mVgxgaFkR9GZDQYIe1Nsb-OI8l17enIcH3uGiZHw4JMeUOvupcoQSBAqxO7yTiVAfmf2WKdGJFUF_nk3V-cu663b5eqSVQ/s1600/FTC+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPXTzosCcvEw8dDAkaTH1uqt1KU8jRLEk8hO0ELDEFO3zO0mVgxgaFkR9GZDQYIe1Nsb-OI8l17enIcH3uGiZHw4JMeUOvupcoQSBAqxO7yTiVAfmf2WKdGJFUF_nk3V-cu663b5eqSVQ/s1600/FTC+4.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2012/02/little-facelift-with-side-of-french.html" target="_blank">French Toast Cupcakes with Maple Buttercream</a>.<br />
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And according to Robbie's report, these cupcakes were nothing short of a hit! A cinnamon-ey, moist, buttery cupcake topped with a cinnamon streusel [for that ever-so-slight French Toast crunch], and finished with a semi-whipped Maple Buttercream is a recipe that will never disappoint. And because <i>technically</i> the name is a breakfast item, there's absolutely no shame in starting your day off with one of these lovelies.<br />
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The only note I made baking these cupcakes in the silicone cups is that the cake tops baked pretty uneven. Since this is my first time using them I'm not <i>exactly</i> sure why that happened, but just to be safe next time I would flatten the tops of the batter. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsy0EOGRNt4siHUVRbJm27ann4HzGodidgBchWjCdCgroegQCXmYYWKUCmm7DCmkVNpOx5AjPNuyeng29uoDCTfjm-NdWm3Sn0sSewmmNo1JfIdhNCRVUxLwN4c7hBFkCL9yRoGGOusNOc/s1600/FTC+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsy0EOGRNt4siHUVRbJm27ann4HzGodidgBchWjCdCgroegQCXmYYWKUCmm7DCmkVNpOx5AjPNuyeng29uoDCTfjm-NdWm3Sn0sSewmmNo1JfIdhNCRVUxLwN4c7hBFkCL9yRoGGOusNOc/s1600/FTC+2.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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And my one "complaint" is that I didn't have two dozen of the baking cups to make the full batch all at once. Looks like I'll be making an <a href="http://www.amazon.com/" target="_blank">Amazon</a> purchase here shortly...<br />
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Lastly, one big <b>thank you</b> to The New York Baking Company for introducing me to another unexplored baking corner I otherwise would have never ventured. You've most definitely turned me into a believer! <b> .</b><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-16235585907270590232014-07-16T07:00:00.000-05:002014-07-16T07:00:12.798-05:00My June Stitch Fix<b>. </b>Hopefully you didn't notice I skipped my May <a href="https://stitchfix.com/" target="_blank">Stitch Fix</a>.<b> </b>And if you didn't, well...now you do. Fortunately I didn't keep anything from last month so you didn't miss anything. <br />
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Like it's been this entire year, last month slipped right by me and freakin' a the middle of July is already upon us. And also like it's been the entire year, this impending wedding is my only excuse.<br />
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Okay, I think that's a pretty legit excuse. And even though I have absolutely loved [almost] every aspect of wedding planning, I can easily say it has completely consumed my life. And the countdown that is soon to be two months will not be getting any better. But I keep telling myself it will <i>all</i> be worth on that big day I officially <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-photos-to-remember-forever.html" target="_blank">become a Knight</a>.<br />
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Anywho, let's get into my <i><b>favorite</b></i> Stitch Fix package yet. This month's stylist absolutely hit the ball out of the park [okay, I'll admit I'm watching the All-Star game as I type this post]! If it weren't for the fact that it feels like I'm spending every last dollar on wedding shenanigans, I would have purchased this entire Fix! <br />
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But...I [reluctantly] showed some self control and sent everything back to Stitch Fix headquarters. You should be proud of me.<br />
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You'll notice that I don't have names or prices for the items, I dropped the ball [another All-Star game reference] and threw away the slip in the package with all of the info. Whoops.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-xlMir9BXX5Zvbmy6ia3VMiCPqpGk0TQ96WAYx3g8UQ8xVx1WLEkCNQ1xCbaPQPAv5Hahgmug5BjbpehxfEmI6Vdryl5-9amqn_L9aMq7BrF9Qvaj3eiTvlSPKhwz9VgNnSGxODXBagb/s1600/Blue+Dress+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF-xlMir9BXX5Zvbmy6ia3VMiCPqpGk0TQ96WAYx3g8UQ8xVx1WLEkCNQ1xCbaPQPAv5Hahgmug5BjbpehxfEmI6Vdryl5-9amqn_L9aMq7BrF9Qvaj3eiTvlSPKhwz9VgNnSGxODXBagb/s1600/Blue+Dress+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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This was easily one of the most well fitting dresses I've ever tried on. The fabric was slightly elastic and the cut of the dress was incredibly flattering. One claim I will <i>never</i> be able to make is that I have a good 'chest' area, but this dress was supportive in <b>all</b> of the right places [if you know what I mean, nudge nudge]. And check out the deep cut back! Although I usually think of maxi dresses as more casual wear, the fabric of this dress was much more dense so you could totally throw on some heels and take this out for a night on the town!</div>
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Dress 2. Oh, dress 2. What's not to love about this ensemble? Unlike the above dress, this maxi was light weight, airy, and perfect for a stroll around the city! My absolute favorite detail were the rope straps, which led to a cut-out back. Unique details like this are basically irresistible to me, it was <i>quite </i>a miracle I put this back in the mail. Maxi's are one of my go-to's during the summer because it's one whole outfit, no thinking required!</div>
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This cute little grey tank could have been an every day staple. I love neutrals because you can wear them with absolutely anything and they never go out of style. The fun part f this top was the square grid back, just another minor detail that turns a typical ol' shirt into something irresistible!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93lNtih55HnWTTqNdK33-r2_pnEFDVgOOMWiqwHB5FZs-JvyTnB8lULSLEPdXE7k-zbsUQI4oN-sXjonWNnw3yd3rlp1TG6wwklJ2wHt4JcDDNizx_5r7cE0gSQSOnTVQMha0MqWLtXNh/s1600/Stripe+Tank+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj93lNtih55HnWTTqNdK33-r2_pnEFDVgOOMWiqwHB5FZs-JvyTnB8lULSLEPdXE7k-zbsUQI4oN-sXjonWNnw3yd3rlp1TG6wwklJ2wHt4JcDDNizx_5r7cE0gSQSOnTVQMha0MqWLtXNh/s1600/Stripe+Tank+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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This last piece reminds me of something you could get from one of my all-time favorite brands, <a href="http://www.freepeople.com/" target="_blank">Free People.</a> This boho-ey-ish tank would have been perfection for a trip to the beach or simple weekend wear. I also loved the unique burnt orange color of this shirt, it's not a color you see every day so when you do my advice would be to snatch it up! </div>
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Ahem, I did get five pieces in my June Stitch Fix but my last item was a gold necklace that, uhhh....I didn't love. So I didn't even bother taking a picture of it. Is that three strikes this post? I'll work on that for next month.</div>
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One. Month.<br />
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To most, that would seem like no big deal. But as a person who typically doesn't go one <i>weekend</i> without making <b>something</b>...this is quite tragic.<br />
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But in order to keep my sanity among the hectic schedule the fiancé and I have been leading as of late, I've tried to give myself a pass with blogging. As much as I'd like to 'do it all', somethings gotta give. <br />
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I will say, however, I do have some legit excuses for my lack of posting. Lots and lots of excuses, actually. Because I can't remember a weekend in the past month or more where we haven't been on the road <i>or </i>had <i>very</i> welcomed guests in town. As you'll see, it's been go-go-go in our neck of the city.<br />
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Therefore, I'd like to make this post into nothing but a picture post. Simply for the fact that the happiness, joy, and love that radiates from each and every one. Feelings that one just can't describe. Plus, a picture is worth a thousand words, right? I'd be here this whole week if I was trying to describe them all...<br />
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So let us begin with easily the <i>best </i>weekend I have had in quite a while because it involved one of the absolute best friends a lady could ask for, her hubby, and most definitely the two <i>cutest</i> little pair of sisters my eyes have ever seen. This was... The Bystryzcki Memorial Day Weekend ☺️<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhDlOr3ro6YARyRi_ftJLKzUneijFswSIR6rKDQSXXV_KAWuf0tgztZCPmYZr4I_lJa53RIUSODqUscHMSQUc30bl2VTBZ6B74_IPAktqQngXfBGLexo92Ei9T_EOqSI7p-NT6-xSYUUBj/s1600/Navy+Pier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhDlOr3ro6YARyRi_ftJLKzUneijFswSIR6rKDQSXXV_KAWuf0tgztZCPmYZr4I_lJa53RIUSODqUscHMSQUc30bl2VTBZ6B74_IPAktqQngXfBGLexo92Ei9T_EOqSI7p-NT6-xSYUUBj/s1600/Navy+Pier.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A trip to Navy Pier!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4IinQbRrGBDn1MeNUfXNYldZukGHNIxR4JrRPMjZ3eGcfbvPtpMYu2338Lm0jeFoXTaDaXuRmQ1HwG-SAVypYy_3R1-btybJRmjOZ0fFh0uHNV8yUQvyJ3JUhab8ZhJq8IQhp33q_TUP/s1600/photo+2-9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV4IinQbRrGBDn1MeNUfXNYldZukGHNIxR4JrRPMjZ3eGcfbvPtpMYu2338Lm0jeFoXTaDaXuRmQ1HwG-SAVypYy_3R1-btybJRmjOZ0fFh0uHNV8yUQvyJ3JUhab8ZhJq8IQhp33q_TUP/s1600/photo+2-9.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easily my absolute favorite picture of the weekend!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPSPkE3A9I_oABgw1r9cUfp8pYoR52Sn_lqG5dFbWdZI6PEYAeu47FsjTBfcVcwEbHQU-R-QgLJaDTYMsZKzVJk6KabY4m5lVaTaJh2DMhCjJNLS0pieffz5aB91aEp4KFHRR7O3-dXF6/s1600/Fountain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYPSPkE3A9I_oABgw1r9cUfp8pYoR52Sn_lqG5dFbWdZI6PEYAeu47FsjTBfcVcwEbHQU-R-QgLJaDTYMsZKzVJk6KabY4m5lVaTaJh2DMhCjJNLS0pieffz5aB91aEp4KFHRR7O3-dXF6/s1600/Fountain.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCuQxPAcm1J4MOx-oZJ_zQua5QK9tqSAoPxhCyguZX2B6_gKnIvNfkKHnX0ryWkZmLSnpjskDo9WBrzn8QOblCh8GJFA3-ItwbQAThxw6QbLdsKwBVTKyny3pMIpVcaK2V7PVZt54Ip8dQ/s1600/Puppy+Time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCuQxPAcm1J4MOx-oZJ_zQua5QK9tqSAoPxhCyguZX2B6_gKnIvNfkKHnX0ryWkZmLSnpjskDo9WBrzn8QOblCh8GJFA3-ItwbQAThxw6QbLdsKwBVTKyny3pMIpVcaK2V7PVZt54Ip8dQ/s1600/Puppy+Time.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidZNfC5Amy23ezKhyphenhypheneAQRKnuJ_GyhdpM8yt0EiZ-9up9-p1Vg39UIcoJKO-O2crR_6oYWApZyJm9IJed8cfBPOgOKAjapDpZK-tpE-k8gAF_G3NOVmjJfvRYKGvF2nbPZI7yqMg6R-TThB/s1600/Zoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidZNfC5Amy23ezKhyphenhypheneAQRKnuJ_GyhdpM8yt0EiZ-9up9-p1Vg39UIcoJKO-O2crR_6oYWApZyJm9IJed8cfBPOgOKAjapDpZK-tpE-k8gAF_G3NOVmjJfvRYKGvF2nbPZI7yqMg6R-TThB/s1600/Zoo.jpg" height="640" width="448" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time for the Lincoln Park Zoo!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJhaV517sLqMjQultccZSF1ZxApzGp9gK4NaNEatuwI5viTISBZ_-34TeUcsAVVPc9mHdNNyspmZy0G8ET0HdFbBB8rql8TVaDSn0dIjF-x82iSKiqdQ3R4Wopc4a2pfxVs1TjBy1-Ua4K/s1600/Cards+Against+Humanity.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJhaV517sLqMjQultccZSF1ZxApzGp9gK4NaNEatuwI5viTISBZ_-34TeUcsAVVPc9mHdNNyspmZy0G8ET0HdFbBB8rql8TVaDSn0dIjF-x82iSKiqdQ3R4Wopc4a2pfxVs1TjBy1-Ua4K/s1600/Cards+Against+Humanity.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Night in with Cards Against Humanity and those big baby blues!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwfINWn672NmYai06YB_xp7rnMnHCDGO5Vea2QgxoRdZ-tKekMPIQy_1X2YOdARzTwrGDZyO1_6mgNPZpVJ5VjYfSRZs9KWv5X08DBsdhnwoS-UqgPKAQNB0OijxFg4sO_jD9hUyPIH7E/s1600/Snuggles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwfINWn672NmYai06YB_xp7rnMnHCDGO5Vea2QgxoRdZ-tKekMPIQy_1X2YOdARzTwrGDZyO1_6mgNPZpVJ5VjYfSRZs9KWv5X08DBsdhnwoS-UqgPKAQNB0OijxFg4sO_jD9hUyPIH7E/s1600/Snuggles.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'll forever remember this moment filled with Gracie's giggles as she snuggled into my chest.</td></tr>
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The following weekend, I made the lone trip back to Minnesota for the graduation party of one of my family's best friends' son's, Nick. It was a <i>very </i>quick trip: back home to Minne late Friday night and turned around to Chicago Sunday afternoon. But between making baseball cookies, the graduation party, an unexpected chance to watch Nick's Section baseball game (i.e., high school post season), and of course, shopping with my mama, I'd say the weekend was <i>more </i>than worth it! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESkRK-HouZzMTCl99pTHdiPUfEcc7upjeq4q9zxZU3-XtvWiz6Hyim7AYvaf6XoWlkKpP8V7zF1J1VKXFF7Ktlw03Bex0ptErsIJRk-F9Zm2vjxRjTf7XdekGS3IM3vHW1yru6kBkznj-/s1600/image+(2).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESkRK-HouZzMTCl99pTHdiPUfEcc7upjeq4q9zxZU3-XtvWiz6Hyim7AYvaf6XoWlkKpP8V7zF1J1VKXFF7Ktlw03Bex0ptErsIJRk-F9Zm2vjxRjTf7XdekGS3IM3vHW1yru6kBkznj-/s1600/image+(2).jpeg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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As a side note, you'll notice Nick didn't actually make it into any of the pictures because he was only at his <i>own</i> graduation party for about an hour before he was off to the baseball field for warm ups! But believe me, he didn't mind it. Nick is easily the most <b>passionate </b>baseball player I have ever met. He has an innate love for the game that I've honestly never come across in a kid his age, but it's not necessarily the <i>game </i>itself. It's the camaraderie with his fellow teammates and the act of working towards a goal with others. To say Nick is a truly genuine, unique young man would be an understatement, and it has been such a joy to watch him evolve over the many, many years!</div>
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The following weekend kept me in the good ol' city of Chicago for my first annual TTX Golf Outing! The weather was absolutely gorgeous [a welcomed change to the cold, wind, and rain we'd been having] and I must say, I had quite the group to golf with. Between the music blasting from our golf cart, drinks of choice, beautiful sun, and entertaining company, I couldn't have asked for a better time! Needless to say, I'll be back next year.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxzDhZyg1vVYHKk6PUPKUB2zLRthhQMquxYB3q2x2wpOqqFoeOCsfYmG2TYQ0djsC287vvhulv3O7f7p2o8Vg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUaKTY80xss6H5Y3fLzKGnUFBuJHc2svK2VSWB5M0nV6Dc1nASJqFxcVlXqizh2AKAuDSGWOo5FF15UViDW6b5_5dZx2s_ZYAvSwOCbUDEM6mzSkY26wcxGUDVPnPo4tWr2qwZmx_cunvy/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUaKTY80xss6H5Y3fLzKGnUFBuJHc2svK2VSWB5M0nV6Dc1nASJqFxcVlXqizh2AKAuDSGWOo5FF15UViDW6b5_5dZx2s_ZYAvSwOCbUDEM6mzSkY26wcxGUDVPnPo4tWr2qwZmx_cunvy/s1600/photo+1.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Absolutely love this gorgeous girl. So much so, she's been designated the personal assistant in the wedding party! Even though I refuse to have her do anything but relax :)</td></tr>
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Crazily enough, I have more life updates even after this last weekend. But that will have to wait for another post of mass pictures as this one has gotten <i>quite</i> lengthy. If you've stuck with me until the end...thank you! As you can see, it's been hard to squeeze in any kitchen time lately but I promise some baking [and cooking!] recipes will soon make an appearance. Ta ta for now!</div>
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It's okay, you can be honest. Constructive criticism is always welcome....as long as it's all nice things ☺️</div>
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But let's get in to my April <a href="https://stitchfix.com/" target="_blank">Stitch Fix</a> package. This month was a touch more fun than the last because I actually <b>kept</b> something! So that always makes things a little more exciting, right? Right.<br />
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So here we go....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGI-iJifckcK80ySr_UAgN8Jg6IFRcg8_O3ZlQHU1exGkUcfFwmqTdM7aK_inACLlwB2p5I3id1StPHiWjy4UHio6i9PZLxo3mbow2ptbUzjtYoh7FwPaV7iWZDOATpOpiIYuF4STN0Wf/s1600/Skinny+Jean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGI-iJifckcK80ySr_UAgN8Jg6IFRcg8_O3ZlQHU1exGkUcfFwmqTdM7aK_inACLlwB2p5I3id1StPHiWjy4UHio6i9PZLxo3mbow2ptbUzjtYoh7FwPaV7iWZDOATpOpiIYuF4STN0Wf/s1600/Skinny+Jean.jpg" height="640" width="368" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$148.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first item are these versatile, Summer-white skinny jeans. I absolutely loved these, the fit was great and I liked how they hit right at the ankle. You could also switch it up and roll the legs up a bit to give you more of a capri look. The only reason I <i>didn't</i> keep these is because I happen to already have a pair just like them. And for the price, I just couldn't get myself to buy something I already had in my closet. Logic got the best of me this time around... But as you go through the rest of the pictures, you'll notice these jeans in many of the outfits. Just goes to show that white jeans are a Spring/Summer must, dress them up or down, they're for any and all occasions!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPCXDOD6sI6I1ITa4MZQ2R4xf65NlY792yy636sx0wqpf63JEN_E2L0yQ4LA5bCHIykqShpmLDcUL5Ce6FEM9RTmMfw5MT6c1AJv-vFOkHgWr4EnuuifwIOFzgECMAu7NmEpXQR6LwL5_Z/s1600/Floral+Top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPCXDOD6sI6I1ITa4MZQ2R4xf65NlY792yy636sx0wqpf63JEN_E2L0yQ4LA5bCHIykqShpmLDcUL5Ce6FEM9RTmMfw5MT6c1AJv-vFOkHgWr4EnuuifwIOFzgECMAu7NmEpXQR6LwL5_Z/s1600/Floral+Top.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$58.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next up is the floral, 3/4 length sleeve top, also seen in the first photo. This was a shirt I tried on several times because I totally loved it: the print was beautiful and the cross front was very flattering. I personally loved the idea of this as a wear-to-work shirt but my conservative self couldn't get past the slit in the front. So sadly, back to Stitch Fix headquarters this shirt went.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnJzKbkVRjNxbw7xU78uY4XAGImITcMzEcDx0XLx3UV1fhDZ7TUp8SJl8FeZathy87DGfhTQTKG4CwbtN0Of2npb821vNN6dep1JiiNivfTlpnxCLI9oCGf8b3_5BLkJ45DvRuod2o2NjK/s1600/Jersey+Top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnJzKbkVRjNxbw7xU78uY4XAGImITcMzEcDx0XLx3UV1fhDZ7TUp8SJl8FeZathy87DGfhTQTKG4CwbtN0Of2npb821vNN6dep1JiiNivfTlpnxCLI9oCGf8b3_5BLkJ45DvRuod2o2NjK/s1600/Jersey+Top.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$54.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This shirt...just not a hit for me. I love the color, especially paired with the white jeans. Great summer outfit! But the material felt a little cheap to me and even though I love, love me some fun button details and cutouts, this shirt was a definite no. You win some, you lose some!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7qE3t5al-_McbuWWOEu9ANwNiUl-kYIW1ZlcsTT4HBz4l9hwRlyWU-oczSKyRkK2GkhibSuzidOANj-4NcXuMaF02RfAgVh8ZCE5TUMX9lLq2D85upLgmz3xgm8oZnwRb2hqQzmtfySy/s1600/Stripe+Dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA7qE3t5al-_McbuWWOEu9ANwNiUl-kYIW1ZlcsTT4HBz4l9hwRlyWU-oczSKyRkK2GkhibSuzidOANj-4NcXuMaF02RfAgVh8ZCE5TUMX9lLq2D85upLgmz3xgm8oZnwRb2hqQzmtfySy/s1600/Stripe+Dress.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$78.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Who doesn't love a fun Summer dress?! My hands are raised! But unfortunately, not this time...The fit of the dress was great, the fabric had slight a stretch so it would be very flattering for any body type. The dress length was also long enough that I think it'd be acceptable to wear to work, which is always a plus for me. But the dress was ever so slightly large, and with horizontal stripes that's usually a no-go for me. Maybe next time around.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFLeHm_wGCbqIT1JI1IBbrPiOH4E7QxLfC3lWN7x5S0JHW-vrprFcUPYBPzHSNpoSlmZr9awz1CqFFHT4-QhjidJ5fgiC9DDraUx6FYsYBtBlIBmloGtZ8xpJwxgtUgVOO1aPGgFD3-X37/s1600/Striped+Maxi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFLeHm_wGCbqIT1JI1IBbrPiOH4E7QxLfC3lWN7x5S0JHW-vrprFcUPYBPzHSNpoSlmZr9awz1CqFFHT4-QhjidJ5fgiC9DDraUx6FYsYBtBlIBmloGtZ8xpJwxgtUgVOO1aPGgFD3-X37/s1600/Striped+Maxi.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$58.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This last piece, the striped maxi, is the one garment I <i>kept</i> from my April package. Again, I tried this skirt on several times. Initially I wasn't in love with it because, let's be honest, the cream color of the skirt is about as pale my skin, so I didn't find it incredibly complementary. But after I tried on a top or two with the skirt, I began to see it's versatility. So into my closet it went!<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
Another month, another Stitch Fix shipment come and gone. But the good thing is that I got a great new maxi out of it. Now if only the summer weather would roll in to Chicago...</div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com1Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-71938281104564515872014-05-13T07:00:00.000-05:002014-05-13T07:00:11.713-05:00Spring Bouquets and Blueberry Snack Bars<b>. </b>So, I'm a little disappointed in myself.<br />
<br />
This post was originally supposed to be a giveaway for my dear readers (i.e., $10 off a stunning floral bouquet) but because of this or that, it took me <i>way</i> too long to get this post completed.<br />
<br />
Therefore, I'm just going to have to promote the bejeezus out of <a href="http://www.ftd.com/" target="_blank">FTD</a> <a href="http://www.ftd.com/flowers-ctg/product-flowers-all/?noparent_bread=1" target="_blank">bouquets</a>. And <a href="http://www.luckyleaf.com/" target="_blank">Lucky Leaf</a> <a href="http://www.luckyleaf.com/Products/#pie-filling" target="_blank">Pie Fillings</a> [the sponsor of this post].<br />
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And I can vouch that the FTD bouquets are lush, gorgeous, and the perfect centerpiece to give your home the most <i>lovely</i> Spring touch because FTD sent me a complimentary arrangement of my choice, of which I just could not pass up the <a href="http://www.ftd.com/lavender-fields-mixed-flower-bouquet-vase-included-prd/flfm/" target="_blank">Lavender Fields Mixed Bouquet</a>... can you blame me?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QUH7H0gjQE7gpJeY7YX6UhYK7HMkZ7In4-TZJ21RWpEqYZ2FtRkoEndD4rwA9pKuvsSaXb6ogRi2P9vJ500Iu4tkkbi02Ah5Znd-PTKsyhND0rpFHO_vIBHVWh2CoNQiRVo7nsAMMXjd/s1600/FK377_AV0_330x370.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2QUH7H0gjQE7gpJeY7YX6UhYK7HMkZ7In4-TZJ21RWpEqYZ2FtRkoEndD4rwA9pKuvsSaXb6ogRi2P9vJ500Iu4tkkbi02Ah5Znd-PTKsyhND0rpFHO_vIBHVWh2CoNQiRVo7nsAMMXjd/s1600/FK377_AV0_330x370.jpg" height="400" width="356" /></a></div>
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The flowers [and vase] came with a packet of flower 'food', so the beautiful arrangement lasted a good week or so on our kitchen counter. It was always so refreshing turning the corner from coming in to our apartment and seeing bright, luscious flowers that you don't get too often living in the city.</div>
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But in addition to the <b>free</b> bouquet, Lucky Leaf also sent along four pie fillings and three very Spring recipe cards. <br />
<br />
So let me speak of one of <i>the</i> most delicious bars I have ever made. I kid you not. These things were gone in a flash at work and I didn't stop hearing about them until long after. They were <b>goOooooOOOooood</b>.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.luckyleaf.com/Recipes/44/Blueberry+Snack+Bars" target="_blank">Blueberry Snack Bars</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsGCk9mY7xil3tcOmqzqI2cj2gjhpKm9ajrn0zemhqDa0DWtjaS0GSp5OGw_W6r7fcvw8VSA6oWCJz5GT6CX3L5yDceRlgJ7pFhdPoE0ou0sYuCpEijdNtHZU8tRJV5UchYuOfXVGbara/s1600/55931f0a-2714-4301-9f67-15727633ebc0_Landscape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUsGCk9mY7xil3tcOmqzqI2cj2gjhpKm9ajrn0zemhqDa0DWtjaS0GSp5OGw_W6r7fcvw8VSA6oWCJz5GT6CX3L5yDceRlgJ7pFhdPoE0ou0sYuCpEijdNtHZU8tRJV5UchYuOfXVGbara/s1600/55931f0a-2714-4301-9f67-15727633ebc0_Landscape.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Sweet, moist, dense cake-like bars topped with a creamy cheesecake middle, rich blueberry pie filling, and finished with crunchy walnuts. Pa-LEASE. Makes my mouth water.<br />
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And you know what <i>slays </i>me? </div>
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The fact that they weren't completely homemade. </div>
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I can hear the gasps from the true bakers of the world but you know what? Sometimes you do what you gotta do. And that's that. This time around the quick and dirty method was just what I needed though, because I made these late at night after a work event. But I guarantee you no one would have guessed how easy peasy these were!<br />
<br />
Hopefully by this time I've convinced you to at least take a gander at the lovely products FTD has to offer, I do believe a very special Mother's Day happens to be tomorrow...<br />
<br />
Or at the very least, I hope you're already gathering together the <a href="http://www.luckyleaf.com/Recipes/44/Blueberry+Snack+Bars" target="_blank">ingredients for these bars</a>. Oh you are? Happy baking! <b>.</b></div>
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<br />
<i>P.S. you've probably noticed I don't have any of my own pictures on this post, huh? Well I had a bit of a snafoo with my camera and they were deleted from my memory card. So...this post...just needs to be done. Sowwy guys.</i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-62437475935316600722014-04-26T19:32:00.002-05:002014-04-26T19:35:03.948-05:00Hummingbird Oatmeal Cookies<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>. </b><strike>So Easter…</strike></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strike>I am neither prepared nor ready to admit this
lovely family holiday is fast approaching.
It most definitely crept up on me, to say the least.<o:p></o:p></strike></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strike><br /></strike></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaS2MYhesabG2pYdKhPU3k1nz9llsbhPOCBLkBmY2mYOBjSv1iMMDZWyFRYtdsYFanSJUPsufnJfzg9WEb3icYngsJVd_16PGmKEp1fgS9UM3Xc6FfNHFb3LXJ9Etewrwe9Pnts_7V2gpu/s1600/Hummingbird+Cookies+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaS2MYhesabG2pYdKhPU3k1nz9llsbhPOCBLkBmY2mYOBjSv1iMMDZWyFRYtdsYFanSJUPsufnJfzg9WEb3icYngsJVd_16PGmKEp1fgS9UM3Xc6FfNHFb3LXJ9Etewrwe9Pnts_7V2gpu/s1600/Hummingbird+Cookies+6.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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So what do you know...Easter has come and gone and this post surely <i>did</i> not make it out before the Easter holiday. <br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I whipped up these cookies a few
weekends ago [the second I pinned them] in hopes that I’d [go gaga
over them and] get the chance to share them with you all for the holiday. But as you can see, </span>that most definitely did not happen<span style="font-family: inherit;">. </span>And<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I'm not happy with myself. But hopefully
there will be some reason for you to include these <i>delish</i> chewy cookies in your upcoming entertaining repertoire. For they most </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">certainly</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> deserve to be.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLRSFE_KbpfilRoowkPZqiy7k8vDmU8_bmHTQQ9q8q2B6Up4ayXSPW5-uswUzi6HUojlM-0JB6xQwIiiAiOmi9P5n2YDRWiP1_0arrZTCgBxEOut086jEHDbqI7c7MHCqJydmHA_SwFDo/s1600/Hummingbird+Cookies+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKLRSFE_KbpfilRoowkPZqiy7k8vDmU8_bmHTQQ9q8q2B6Up4ayXSPW5-uswUzi6HUojlM-0JB6xQwIiiAiOmi9P5n2YDRWiP1_0arrZTCgBxEOut086jEHDbqI7c7MHCqJydmHA_SwFDo/s1600/Hummingbird+Cookies+3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You may recall that </span>I've<span style="font-family: inherit;"> made <a href="http://www.bakeorbreak.com/" target="_blank">Bake or Break’s</a>
<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2011/03/hummingbird-cupcakes.html" target="_blank">Hummingbird Cupcakes</a> many a times before, they were actually one of the very
first recipes I ever posted on LSM.
Which I’m sure </span>I've<span style="font-family: inherit;"> told you. Several
times before. But to this day, they continue
to be one of my go-to and all-time favorite recipes. And I can now vouch that my baking blog idol,
BoB, has done it yet again. But this
time in </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><i>cookie</i></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> form.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">These perfectly sized chewy, chewy cookies
contain all of the traditional Hummingbird flavors: ripe bananas, sweet pineapple,
fragrant spices, and crunchy pecans. With
a dollop of rich cream cheese frosting to top it all off [literally and
figuratively], these cookies are near perfection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6OI330F4_3sFqsoV1WYZvQyWshH34QtEF15aj1ouUtxtjO1YP2ctmgxO0JMYFUkgFll8YxLk_MPkdJBlQHV3Q9Pomjs-GloJIbk4gtHYH9TCDhtGQ1_ngITbdwwVEIuHEMycZCsVTh57/s1600/Hummingbird+Cookies+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb6OI330F4_3sFqsoV1WYZvQyWshH34QtEF15aj1ouUtxtjO1YP2ctmgxO0JMYFUkgFll8YxLk_MPkdJBlQHV3Q9Pomjs-GloJIbk4gtHYH9TCDhtGQ1_ngITbdwwVEIuHEMycZCsVTh57/s1600/Hummingbird+Cookies+2.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And outright addicting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A sure crowd pleaser for any holiday brunch,
lunch, or dinner. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or any ol’ time for that matter. Because they’re good year round. You’ll see </span><b style="font-family: inherit;">.</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPYD-Pe7rtc7-HV_H8ERG5x0HE7mOjnVLpLhB9rvCI2oGQOrAFRf2L9uLIYKYMRKGk7loMQBi3fJHlqJrjWJI-xsVtxNcZsFGH3v-hBy70pPe46WT-h8irURii8_ZxWvWjjYm_mBZQvQ7/s1600/Hummingbird+Cookies+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbPYD-Pe7rtc7-HV_H8ERG5x0HE7mOjnVLpLhB9rvCI2oGQOrAFRf2L9uLIYKYMRKGk7loMQBi3fJHlqJrjWJI-xsVtxNcZsFGH3v-hBy70pPe46WT-h8irURii8_ZxWvWjjYm_mBZQvQ7/s1600/Hummingbird+Cookies+5.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Adapted from Bake or Break<br />
<br />
<u>Ingredients</u>:<br />
<i>Hummingbird Oatmeal Cookies:</i><br />
2 c. all purpose flour<br />
1 tbsp. ground cinnamon<br />
1 tsp. baking soda<br />
1/2 tsp. salt<br />
1 c. unsalted butter, softened<br />
1 c. packed light brown sugar<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 tsp. vanilla extract<br />
1/2 medium ripe banana, mashed<br />
1-1/2 c. old fashioned oats<br />
1 c. chopped pecans<br />
1/2 c. chopped dried or candied pineapple<br />
<br />
<i>Cream Cheese Frosting:</i><br />
4 oz. cream cheese, softened<br />
1/4 c. unsalted butter, softened<br />
1-1/4 c. powdered sugar<br />
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract<br />
Banana chips, chopped pecans (garnish; optional)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Directions</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Heat oven to 350ºF. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or spray with nonstick cooking spray.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">For cookies, whisk together <b>flour</b>, <b>baking</b> <b>soda</b>, and <b>salt</b>; set aside. In a large bowl, beat together <b>butter</b> and <b>brown</b> <b>sugar</b> on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add <b>eggs</b>, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in <b>vanilla</b> <b>extract</b> until combined, then add <b>banana</b> and mix until combined.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Reduce mixer speed to low and gradually add flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Stir in <b>oats</b>, <b>pecans</b>, and <b>pineapple</b>. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Drop dough by scant tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between cookies. Flatten each cookie slightly. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Bake 12 to 14 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool on pans before removing to wire racks to cool completely. Repeat with remaining dough.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">For frosting, in a medium bowl, beat <b>cream</b> <b>cheese</b> and butter with mixer on medium speed until well blended and smooth. Mix in vanilla extract until combined.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Spread about 1/2 tablespoon of frosting on cookies and garnish, if desired. </li>
</ol>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Yield: 4 dozen cookies</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEgKk1H_5Ps9UgaNd3KZJFlxVTmqwTcQ842ZxKUsN5qQe5XpDOfwqhbQEEnDYlvMql0iz1zVWrXfac8qzcVXRMT7cDO1WGkbtOvDUwoLPxfQbmvZ0tqH4f10f1oVzFhbOidPWzIqIDurF0H41cvW4AO4WUaQUcmBTzcdJg=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="post signature" border="0" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
As I've mentioned many a times before, <a href="http://secretrecipeclub.com/" target="_blank">SRC</a> has been a way for me to broaden my baking and [very limited] culinary horizons. And this month's assignment was most certainly a way to do just that.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2Tj70mBoV8lOtLL19X_RjYutZjz0GtUjmNzc_pbwMYRAyHBwHYyei2ARyb1cJ0qIqSFslnJGKiIVdrE4L8VRj0GgBXmzrwsTlBHwhP82XNtXpFDmEaWHDLTyEU9YGAig4mk7wZ0Uo5Fo/s1600/Smoothie1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2Tj70mBoV8lOtLL19X_RjYutZjz0GtUjmNzc_pbwMYRAyHBwHYyei2ARyb1cJ0qIqSFslnJGKiIVdrE4L8VRj0GgBXmzrwsTlBHwhP82XNtXpFDmEaWHDLTyEU9YGAig4mk7wZ0Uo5Fo/s1600/Smoothie1.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
From <a href="http://www.frombraziltoyou.org/" target="_blank">Brazil to You</a>, published by <a href="http://www.frombraziltoyou.org/about-me/" target="_blank">Denise</a>, is a blog dedicated to well, Brazil! Denise was born and raised in Brazil but soon transplanted to the United States when she married her husband in 2002. Since then, with extensive experience in the culinary industry, Denise has used her blog as a platform to share with her readers both classic and modern Brazilian dishes, as well as tid bits of information about her home country!<br />
<br />
Searching through Denise's array of recipes was undoubtedly eye opening, how had I not heard of <b>SO</b> many wonderful things?! From <a href="http://www.frombraziltoyou.org/rice-casserole-arroz-de-forno/" target="_blank">Arroz de Forno Cremoso</a> (Baked Rice Casserole), <a href="http://www.frombraziltoyou.org/mac-cheese-macarronada-com-requeijao/" target="_blank">Macarronada com Requeijao</a> (Brazilian Mac and Cheese), and <a href="http://www.frombraziltoyou.org/coconut-cornmeal-cake-bolo-de-fuba/" target="_blank">Bolo de uba com Coco</a> (Coconut-Cornmeal Cake), it'd be an understatement to say it took me a few days to finally decide on what I just <i>had</i> to make from Denise's intriguing recipes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTh-Am0zaMnz7Ad3vQOGZY5iHft_ToDzYsemx9YMzQnhWxNgmU1BJNjgv3or4K_yRC0a97eXCXL5ITV1KWLhIym5thYGt5qHqHC1tN0l2LfKRgT6hT565Tm1LpvG3l7hdRpTC3wsugmCOy/s1600/Smoothie+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTh-Am0zaMnz7Ad3vQOGZY5iHft_ToDzYsemx9YMzQnhWxNgmU1BJNjgv3or4K_yRC0a97eXCXL5ITV1KWLhIym5thYGt5qHqHC1tN0l2LfKRgT6hT565Tm1LpvG3l7hdRpTC3wsugmCOy/s1600/Smoothie+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
But lately I haven't been in much of the baking mood, I think it may be that I'm trying to get on track with the whole wedding diet thing? Or maybe because the weather seems to be turning towards the warmer side of life, which doesn't have me craving those comfort foods <i>quite</i> like the winter months.<br />
<br />
So when I came across Denise's Drinks section, I knew what I had to try.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.frombraziltoyou.org/from-brazil-to-you-banana-coffee-chai-smoothie/" target="_blank">Banana Coffee Chai Smoothie</a>.<br />
<br />
Uh hello, how can you pass that up? <br />
<br />
Sadly, and not sure how it's possible, but I've never made a smoothie before. In my life. <i>Slightly</i> pathetic, huh? But I must say, if I was going to pop my smoothie-cherry, I wouldn't have wanted it to be with any other smoothie but this one.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVuqZ4KSHIBeAhhmdPOu4fVi0apothGX_bBd4l6w1deHd650W6GU1MLm50PcH7IgKhHdkCp9d1nncRP8tqOJnJYLo7Oz2oBotvjO1_P5yj22N-fFj_LiPPMdKODo5tkEPKYErvzJ7y8uK/s1600/Smoothie+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmVuqZ4KSHIBeAhhmdPOu4fVi0apothGX_bBd4l6w1deHd650W6GU1MLm50PcH7IgKhHdkCp9d1nncRP8tqOJnJYLo7Oz2oBotvjO1_P5yj22N-fFj_LiPPMdKODo5tkEPKYErvzJ7y8uK/s1600/Smoothie+3.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smoothie Selfie!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
From the yummy banana to the spiced chai, subtle coffee flavor, and a drizzle of hot fudge sauce that brings it all together, this beverage hit that 'summer' feeling for me. A refreshingly <i>healthy</i> smoothie perfect for a cool down moment on the hot summer days that I'm <i>positive</i> will eventually make their way to Chicago.<br />
<br />
So thank you SRC and From Brazil to You for once again showing me the wonders of this blogging world I would have otherwise never known. Until next time!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My Notes:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><i>I used Light Vanilla Silk (soy milk) for the milk in this recipe. It was absolutely wonderful if you're looking for a scrumptious dairy substitute, less calories, and more calcium!</i></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuw2BPQjSLbAcWQ-laMNvoi7Ofq0emoDSb9bUd04ExO8D9b6mQDY_IXSgPE0LIBExsGv1dTr6TAgY_DN44EJ2EaLgCS5DI1hbCGStePUiFMyw5OS2Tr_fvL_FVpCfciAv6nd9mBi1hD9DL/s1600/Smoothie+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuw2BPQjSLbAcWQ-laMNvoi7Ofq0emoDSb9bUd04ExO8D9b6mQDY_IXSgPE0LIBExsGv1dTr6TAgY_DN44EJ2EaLgCS5DI1hbCGStePUiFMyw5OS2Tr_fvL_FVpCfciAv6nd9mBi1hD9DL/s1600/Smoothie+2.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Adapted from From Brazil to You</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. hot water, divided</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 Chai tea bag</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. instant coffee</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 large fresh or frozen banana, cut into chunks</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. milk</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pinch of ground cinnamon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pinch of ground nutmeg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pinch of ground ginger</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 to 4 tbsp. sugar, honey, or sugar substitute</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4 iced cubes</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hot Fudge Sauce (optional)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Directions</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li>Boil <b>water</b> and divide into 1/4 cup each. Place the <b>Chai</b> <b>tea</b> <b>bag</b> in one cup and the <b>instant</b> <b>coffee</b> in the other. Let brew for 3 to 5 minutes. Squeeze out teabag and discard. Pour the brewed tea and coffee into a blender. Add <b>banana</b>, <b>milk</b>, <b>cinnamon</b>, <b>nutmeg</b>, <b>ginger</b>, and <b>sugar</b>, and puree until smooth. Add <b>iced</b> <b>cubes</b> and pulse just until ice is crushed. </li>
<li>Warm <b>hot</b> <b>fudge</b> <b>sauce</b> until drizzling consistency. Drizzle sauce along sides of serving cups. Divide smoothie into cups and serve immediately.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Yield: 2 servings</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com9Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-19845436501603839362014-04-13T12:16:00.001-05:002014-04-13T12:16:29.444-05:00My March Stitch Fix<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>. </b>If I had to list out my passions in life, not
surprisingly baking would be one of them.
Right at the very top. Obvi.</span><br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But what would probably come as a bit of a
surprise is that I’m<i> ca-razy</i> about fashion.
Style. The necessary evil. Whatever you want to call it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And I have been since the day I realized I could
love sports but also dress like the <i>girl</i>
that I am. No more Umbro shorts and sports
tees. No more tight, slicked back
ponytails. No, I could actually wear a
dress. And heaven forbid straighten my
hair. And still be a softball-er,
volleyball-er, runner [er…?], etc. at the same time. Outlandish thoughts, I know.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So needless to say, but I’ll say it anyway, I </span><b style="font-family: inherit;">L.O.V.E</b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> to shop. I could pretty much live at a </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">good</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> mall. Walking around, gazing at trendy fashion, and
albeit trying on those pieces I just </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">can’t </i><span style="font-family: inherit;">resist. </span>Doesn't<span style="font-family: inherit;"> get much better than that, my friends.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sadly enough, busy weeks of work and fitting in
workouts at night </span>doesn't<span style="font-family: inherit;"> leave me time for much else. So even though we live in the bountiful land
of Chicago, I really only venture out to the shops on the weekend. So when I stumbled across a personal shopping
service through a Facebook friend, I </span>couldn't<span style="font-family: inherit;"> resist learning more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Which brings me to the point of this post. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.stitchfix.com/" target="_blank">Stitch Fix</a>.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeqjnltNTdRxty4AnYtFDyhCKPP_X0sTi_Zo1U0fRyhhKnqlUX9dnZ94KVTnryEg1l7z3xMQFvbJnrYLPgw5AZJGPzh3R0x3mjfBuh-WGRiBzheWJft8faagp-l9B-tW7CZmWGA1q-l25/s1600/stitchfix_logo_cropped-gray_full.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeqjnltNTdRxty4AnYtFDyhCKPP_X0sTi_Zo1U0fRyhhKnqlUX9dnZ94KVTnryEg1l7z3xMQFvbJnrYLPgw5AZJGPzh3R0x3mjfBuh-WGRiBzheWJft8faagp-l9B-tW7CZmWGA1q-l25/s1600/stitchfix_logo_cropped-gray_full.JPG" height="324" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The concept is rather simple. Every month, for $20, an assigned stylist sends
you five items of clothing and/or jewelry they think you’d like [via studying
an extensive fashion profile you fill out when signing up and also from the
help of researching your Pinterest fashion board, if you have one]. Once you receive the package, you have three
days [give or take…] to decide whether you’d like to keep the items or send
them right on back if you’re not feeling anything. Plus, Stitch Fix conveniently includes a
pre-labeled bag for any of items you don’t want, so shipping is free!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I've<span style="font-family: inherit;"> been
a Stitch Fix customer for about six months now, some months have been absolute
hits while others </span>I've<span style="font-family: inherit;"> sent every item back.
But the fun thing about it is that each month, Stitch Fix uses your
feedback/requests to make your </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">next</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> month’s
package more desirable. I mean, their
goal </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">is </i><span style="font-family: inherit;">to get you to </span><b style="font-family: inherit;">want </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">to
purchase everything, right? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So out of my shipments thus far, </span>I've<span style="font-family: inherit;"> bought
things such as a plaid cropped shirt, a green army-like jacket, and grey
skinnies. All because my stylists did
their homework and sent me items inspired by my Pinterest board! Who can resist that…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lately </span>I've<span style="font-family: inherit;"> been mulling over ways to change up
things over here at LSM. The same types
of posts over and over can get a little redundant, cha know? So I thought introducing my love for fashion
via Stitch Fix would be perfect. Fun for me, new service for you!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So each month I’ll go through my Stitch Fix package
with you, whether you like it or not. I
always love reading others posts about what they’re wearing these days, so why
not join in on the fun?!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">And here we go…</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNiEhIUO4Zh6KpMVl3siBlapzlH3MrGPsBPb-eUbXUJ_lVXQmMm9Lh9UI3-goY2kIc8fjHypS6H6bbq7MHkAC4aZZfLaI1Dr_rcdXlSuO1iQQ2htso4ApQpHWqL1IPCP6f80ub8YyrACj/s1600/Black+Shirt+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsNiEhIUO4Zh6KpMVl3siBlapzlH3MrGPsBPb-eUbXUJ_lVXQmMm9Lh9UI3-goY2kIc8fjHypS6H6bbq7MHkAC4aZZfLaI1Dr_rcdXlSuO1iQQ2htso4ApQpHWqL1IPCP6f80ub8YyrACj/s1600/Black+Shirt+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$58.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First is the Hawthorn black blouse, which you'll notice I used in almost all of the outfits because of it's versatility. However, I didn't keep this piece because I wasn't a fan of the fabric. The shirt felt a touch cheap <i>on</i> so I didn't think it was worth keeping.</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4VsU9NruljYvRACe2R6ynqy1-oPu586Q7DHgYsUoyLqR9MwARhDtMkJaIholWZbi7A1eXynl226eMy8nzz2i7jEZx3pyh7wpIpARVuygqz8hCgu3ut5z9nDLj_jBCjdC-hFYN52FNnkD/s1600/BF+Jeans+(Outfit2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH4VsU9NruljYvRACe2R6ynqy1-oPu586Q7DHgYsUoyLqR9MwARhDtMkJaIholWZbi7A1eXynl226eMy8nzz2i7jEZx3pyh7wpIpARVuygqz8hCgu3ut5z9nDLj_jBCjdC-hFYN52FNnkD/s1600/BF+Jeans+(Outfit2).jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$78.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My next item is the Kut from the Kloth boyfriend jeans. I'm always on the look out for a good boyfriend jean so I was ecstatic my stylist sent me these. Overall, I really liked these. The fit was great, loved the wash, but not <i>quite </i>sure what it was that held me back from keeping them. Plus, ironically, at the time I had <i>just</i> ordered a pair of boyfriend jeans I was waiting on... P.S. there's that black blouse again!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYU9cWjSKWYavp108d0IqxbRRTxJLE6tCkY5s9-aEKmUTQveJU6vbHNq90Y5oWP5tQw7eKgnrJffOPEDmiz9PJks4OGWe3ntRtFdk40cj59gzcNyV1eVZJ9sAXUqZzqpInCngS5qil91uk/s1600/White+Cardigan+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYU9cWjSKWYavp108d0IqxbRRTxJLE6tCkY5s9-aEKmUTQveJU6vbHNq90Y5oWP5tQw7eKgnrJffOPEDmiz9PJks4OGWe3ntRtFdk40cj59gzcNyV1eVZJ9sAXUqZzqpInCngS5qil91uk/s1600/White+Cardigan+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$48.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Hmmm, did not like this piece. The style was okay but it just wasn't flattering on me (e.g., horizontal stripes). I did like the lightness of the cardigan though, it would definitely be a great piece for a cool summer night. But unfortunately, this was sent back as well.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVmFJpTdokU-DLliTpaMh9KRgRDaSoIP0-6eesvUoRMkZ-mcHHEWA6mogiIgvyHPSwLLAhq3B5spzsyWVnuAOAUyPu9ihUDtwF6wmF9cZnPisFmF7B-O3OurURKXYO5Kicy1U_6fSnfs4V/s1600/Maxi+Skirt+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVmFJpTdokU-DLliTpaMh9KRgRDaSoIP0-6eesvUoRMkZ-mcHHEWA6mogiIgvyHPSwLLAhq3B5spzsyWVnuAOAUyPu9ihUDtwF6wmF9cZnPisFmF7B-O3OurURKXYO5Kicy1U_6fSnfs4V/s1600/Maxi+Skirt+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$128.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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My stylist noted that from studying my Pinterest board, he noticed I was a maxi fanatic so he sent this summery piece. And although my stylist was absolutely spot on, I wasn't a huge fan of the color combination. I also like maxi's a little more flowy and this fabric was just a bit stiff. So back to Stitch Fix headquarters it went. P.S.S. another outfit with the black blouse!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyfU0NeBg8OML2XFeCeyUVqv9SugG3T0T4ihHLp67cBItZvOCJEhPu98t32s4UlmulFzgzxz1nMKnF8fCZivR82IKxNiktkN8T3ZalzX1EUfbHkPWl0LpsJBbbILjOSjb03xNBEm7G1xEP/s1600/Necklace+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyfU0NeBg8OML2XFeCeyUVqv9SugG3T0T4ihHLp67cBItZvOCJEhPu98t32s4UlmulFzgzxz1nMKnF8fCZivR82IKxNiktkN8T3ZalzX1EUfbHkPWl0LpsJBbbILjOSjb03xNBEm7G1xEP/s1600/Necklace+Collage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>$36.00</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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My last piece was this necklace. Who doesn't love a statement necklace, by the way?! I really loved the color combo here but there was something about the gold that kind of drew me away. Again, it was a little cheap looking to me so I decided not to keep this either. </div>
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Although I didn't keep anything this month, there were definitely pieces my stylist sent that were pretty spot on with my style. There just wasn't something that I couldn't live with out (which is my purchasing rule) so I opted out this month. But I made sure to note all of these thoughts in my checkout, which the stylists use for next time around. So we'll see what they come up with next month! <b>.</b></div>
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<i>This post is not sponsored by Stitch Fix, all opinions are my own.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEgKk1H_5Ps9UgaNd3KZJFlxVTmqwTcQ842ZxKUsN5qQe5XpDOfwqhbQEEnDYlvMql0iz1zVWrXfac8qzcVXRMT7cDO1WGkbtOvDUwoLPxfQbmvZ0tqH4f10f1oVzFhbOidPWzIqIDurF0H41cvW4AO4WUaQUcmBTzcdJg=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="post signature" border="0" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /></a></div>
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I don't think two savory posts in a row has ever happened here. But not to worry, I have absolutely zero intentions of changing my focus to cooking. Sorry, not happenin', Robbie.</div>
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But you know how sometimes you can just kind of 'sweet' yourself out? Probably not, because most likely you don't live with a baker. But trust me, it can happen. Hard to imagine, but it can. And I think I made just one [or three] too many sugar-coma goodies in the past few weeks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlJadhHJwOqxuufJDAyRL32glqEI6iTOMPrXxptcEyTEvk9BWhAJ_ysHaJccHAXns-d1bx7dIwHipkII8NGYPWvswU3QQHNymTf48eBKGc0QxH4hpCa982eeLlGfa_sdpHCBwMYOsBfHn/s3200/IMG_1236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlJadhHJwOqxuufJDAyRL32glqEI6iTOMPrXxptcEyTEvk9BWhAJ_ysHaJccHAXns-d1bx7dIwHipkII8NGYPWvswU3QQHNymTf48eBKGc0QxH4hpCa982eeLlGfa_sdpHCBwMYOsBfHn/s3200/IMG_1236.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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But why haven't you seen any of these creations? Well...they were flops. Not sure <i>what</i> was going on in my baking world as of late, but I had a couple of misses I didn't think were blog worthy [e.g., <a href="http://www.somethingswanky.com/oreo-cream-brownies/" target="_blank">Oreo Cream Brownies</a>]. So in addition to making a lot of desserts, the fact that they didn't turn out was a little disheartening. Thus, apparently my taste buds turned to the savory to give myself a break.</div>
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Plus, Robbie recently started on his new audit client, which happens to be out in Northbrook, IL. Though only a short 20-some miles away, horrendous Chicago traffic turns the drive into about an hour long [or more]. Hence, Robbie leaves at the crack of dawn just to make it in to work on time. Thanks Deloitte...</div>
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So in efforts to pull ahead in the race for fiancé of the year, I made this casserole <b>twice</b> in the past two weeks as Robbie's on-the-go breakfast. Throw it in a microwavable bowl/cup and <i>voila: </i>a hot, easy, travel-size breakfast for the car ride.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJLukXeepNUJtJ93OwXmjRwoJqbAtwMYhdwG0M3r8qyvjfKK2cfh7juNjvCVG2vue4dm3DcRk_uJxIFwtFSV5hJDCWzk6iySkSxqDdDQlUIZdTrjJ1CBy9BrtCmicVtk3TqDNxJPoGK4Mj/s3200/IMG_1232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJLukXeepNUJtJ93OwXmjRwoJqbAtwMYhdwG0M3r8qyvjfKK2cfh7juNjvCVG2vue4dm3DcRk_uJxIFwtFSV5hJDCWzk6iySkSxqDdDQlUIZdTrjJ1CBy9BrtCmicVtk3TqDNxJPoGK4Mj/s3200/IMG_1232.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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But let's get into the deets of what actually makes this dish <i>so</i> desirable that Robbie <i style="font-weight: bold;">requested</i> I make it again [because the first time he didn't have a choice]. </div>
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Bagels. Smoked Salmon. Cheese. And Chives.</div>
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All mixed together [with a few other tasty ingredients] recreating the ever-so-famous NYC Bagel & Lox combination in one dish. A truly hearty, yet healthy, flavorful breakfast that Robbie seriously couldn't get enough of.</div>
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I, on the other hand, might have smoked salmon myself out. So I'll be making some cookies today ☺️ <b>.</b><br />
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<i>My Notes:</i></div>
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<ul>
<li><i>Since the bagels are a main component, use the best quality bagels you can. Also, don't be afraid to try out different flavors of bagels, too! But for the first go around, going plain is probably best and then you can adapt next time.</i></li>
<li><i>To go along with those bagels, also be sure to use the best quality salmon you can. Yes, smoked salmon is <b>not </b>cheap. But it will make a difference in this dish that will last you quite a while!</i></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8gpHo7aqYiNctOmhKRz74sN6xjxDAn3MMoWyB-h4T0OSJDs6RxFXR2k7JSldH-M5mf6cOUrx84sabRs83MESbWw9MXID0XjvLJ2Mrlz2rT0ZJAauNcUWxwd7VDeV-1XXByQhbR5rrpRi/s3200/IMG_1234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8gpHo7aqYiNctOmhKRz74sN6xjxDAn3MMoWyB-h4T0OSJDs6RxFXR2k7JSldH-M5mf6cOUrx84sabRs83MESbWw9MXID0XjvLJ2Mrlz2rT0ZJAauNcUWxwd7VDeV-1XXByQhbR5rrpRi/s3200/IMG_1234.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Adapted from <a href="http://www.bhg.com/" target="_blank">Better Homes and Gardens</a></div>
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<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
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1/4 c. butter, melted</div>
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8 c. (about 4 to 6) plain bagels, cut into 1-inch pieces</div>
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1 (3 oz.) package smoked salmon, cut into small pieces</div>
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4 oz. Swiss cheese, shredded</div>
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4 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, shredded</div>
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1/4 c. snipped fresh chives</div>
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8 eggs, beaten</div>
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2 c. milk</div>
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1 c. cottage cheese</div>
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1/4 tsp. pepper</div>
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<u>Directions</u>:</div>
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<ol>
<li>Place melted <b>butter</b> in 13x9-inch baking dish to cover bottom. Spread <b>bagel</b> pieces evenly in prepared dish. Sprinkle <b>smoked</b> <b>salmon</b>, <b>cheese</b>, and <b>chives</b> evenly over bagels.</li>
<li>In a large bowl, combine <b>eggs</b>, <b>milk</b>, <b>cottage</b> <b>cheese</b>, and <b>pepper</b>, and whisk until combined. Pour over bagel mixture in pan. With back of a large spoon, gently press down bread pieces to make sure all of the ingredients are moistened. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours up to overnight.</li>
<li>When ready to bake, heat oven to 350ºF. Bake 45 minutes or until set and edges are puffed and golden. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.</li>
</ol>
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Yield: 12 servings</div>
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<i>Per Serving: Calories - 267; Total Fat - 14g; Cholesterol - 176mg; Carbohydrates - 16g; Fiber - 1g; Sugar - 3g; Protein - 17g</i></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-59397916675975347392014-03-09T20:35:00.000-05:002014-03-09T20:35:14.929-05:00Sunday Special: Grandma's Creamy Baked Macaroni 'n' Cheese<b>. </b>Okay, this isn't <i>my </i>Grandma's recipe.<br />
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Neither is it my typical healthy Sunday recipe post [that I seemingly forgot about as of late....].</div>
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But guess what? It just makes it sound better, more nostalgic. So we're keeping it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCJTwl0jjwAEeACODkFV9YaNyOFqZgYJw-xquM6j-AZNFmaYDFT2ptWlxYJdmNGkUu-iiyWtCrMlwZ2ywOyco38kZfscAU8801sWwKeRufvBXkNg_02Hrsf0FSgfNTuQ0lv9iS7k1pg97/s1600/IMG_1037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyCJTwl0jjwAEeACODkFV9YaNyOFqZgYJw-xquM6j-AZNFmaYDFT2ptWlxYJdmNGkUu-iiyWtCrMlwZ2ywOyco38kZfscAU8801sWwKeRufvBXkNg_02Hrsf0FSgfNTuQ0lv9iS7k1pg97/s1600/IMG_1037.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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As you may know, Robbie was in Omaha for almost <b>all</b> of February. Yes, seriously. What a joke, huh? Stupid job.</div>
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But as the weeks wound down and it was finally time for the fiancé to return back to Chi-beria, a home-cooked meal seemed like the ticket.</div>
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See, in Robbie's line of work, what they call 'busy season' goes on every year from about January to April/May. And busy seasons entails days, weeks, and months of never-ending work. As in, those poor accounting soldiers spend every waking minute of their day at the office. From about 8 AM to 12/1:00 AM. E'ry day. Except Sundays...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3N9J8d-IqEw6b4SxEfyx7IpPcJUSZn46WxNWxJ-MZAXhU4TVq57j_TkJaJ_nATkqg69_K2mDh_LYUZrtiTL2zfPpfANgIFla0NbeQB1GXb33aB9qp5KEQPip6LBLqYszYXHPet15bF33c/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3N9J8d-IqEw6b4SxEfyx7IpPcJUSZn46WxNWxJ-MZAXhU4TVq57j_TkJaJ_nATkqg69_K2mDh_LYUZrtiTL2zfPpfANgIFla0NbeQB1GXb33aB9qp5KEQPip6LBLqYszYXHPet15bF33c/s1600/IMG_1042.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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Which means that they have take-out. A lot. </div>
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And I'm all for take-out. But I'm sure you can agree that sometimes it just gets <i>old </i>after...29-too many meals.</div>
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So prior to his arrival on a late Friday night a couple of weeks back, I decided Robbie needed a comfort-food greeting. And while I keep telling myself Robbie was glad to be back home to see <i>me</i>, I could see his eyes light up at the sight of the surprise mac 'n' cheese sitting on the stove. Dang it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWr32Hc1RxbiVK9f3uE4D12e19O7AMmN4ZSu5IcSVeF_J84zOLT1cvWAUlqgs0SvzSp5O8Kl_MVBxtrEAZJsuZTKzjAiNz2Zc8RCA8u3pFnbjMKeKvOg1U4a4WL8pBlb1NAdiJSQWg33A/s1600/IMG_1036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWr32Hc1RxbiVK9f3uE4D12e19O7AMmN4ZSu5IcSVeF_J84zOLT1cvWAUlqgs0SvzSp5O8Kl_MVBxtrEAZJsuZTKzjAiNz2Zc8RCA8u3pFnbjMKeKvOg1U4a4WL8pBlb1NAdiJSQWg33A/s1600/IMG_1036.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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But this dish is comfort-food-Paula Deen-esque to a 'T'. A casserole of chewy elbow macaroni covered in creamy, cheesy goodness. Then finished with a toasted layer of bread crumbs adding that ever-so-perfect crunch.</div>
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Crunchy topping. Rich, gooey, cheesy sauce. Chewy al dente macaroni. </div>
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Please tell me what could be better? <b>.</b></div>
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<i>My Notes:</i></div>
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<ul>
<li><i>I [still] don't know exactly what Vermont cheddar is, so I went for the regular ol' cheddar cheese. But use whichever type you like best or can at least find!</i></li>
<li><i>The <a href="http://www.simplysogood.com/2012/11/grandmas-famous-mac-n-cheese.html" target="_blank">original recipe</a> used individual servings in ramekins but I opted for the casserole style. But if you want to serve this decadent dish as a side, the ramekins are absolutely perfect! </i></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthuAEHoTrXGURSB-rE4x5G7XuCWXTN0cRzComo39lTzr-KCwMzlazilg-grAFJ-zJEdMIxYy_RYomM-YlkSvCrtFSHV-JSlOLCMVQwH1sBwwPzojYDGtslC6rqYYTAGhQofevfM3QPQwK/s1600/IMG_1047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgthuAEHoTrXGURSB-rE4x5G7XuCWXTN0cRzComo39lTzr-KCwMzlazilg-grAFJ-zJEdMIxYy_RYomM-YlkSvCrtFSHV-JSlOLCMVQwH1sBwwPzojYDGtslC6rqYYTAGhQofevfM3QPQwK/s1600/IMG_1047.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
Adapted from <a href="http://www.simplysogood.com/" target="_blank">Simply So Good</a></div>
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<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
scant 8 oz. uncooked elbow macaroni</div>
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3 tbsp. butter</div>
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2 tbsp. all purpose flour</div>
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2-1/2 c. heavy whipping cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pinch of nutmeg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Black pepper (to taste)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 c. shredded sharp cheddar cheese or aged Vermont cheddar cheese</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 c. bread crumbs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Directions</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ol>
<li>Follow package directions to cook <b>macaroni</b> in pot of boiling water. Drain, rinse with cold water, and place macaroni into a large bowl; set aside. Butter the bottom and sides of a 13x9-inch baking dish; set aside.</li>
<li>Heat oven to 350ºF. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons <b>butter</b> over medium heat. Add <b>flour</b> and whisk until smooth. Add <b>heavy</b> <b>whipping</b> <b>cream</b> and whisk until sauce thickens (this takes several minutes). Add <b>salt</b>, <b>nutmeg</b>, and <b>pepper</b>, and continue whisking until combined. Remove from heat and stir in <b>cheese</b>. Whisk until smooth and most of cheese is melted.</li>
<li>Pour cheese mixture over macaroni and stir until completely covered. Pour the macaroni 'n' cheese into prepared baking dish.</li>
<li>Melt remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and mix with <b>bread</b> <b>crumbs</b> in a small bowl. Evenly sprinkle bread crumbs over top of macaroni 'n' cheese.</li>
<li>Bake 35 to 45 minutes or until edges are bubbling and bread crumbs are golden brown. Remove from oven and serve.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Yield: 12 servings<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com1Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-41708899542057650812014-03-03T07:00:00.000-06:002014-03-03T09:02:14.127-06:00Glazed Snickerdoodle Waffle Cookies<b>. </b>I have to say it...<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You will <b>LOVE</b>. these. cookies.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOCsKutHsG4daMc06Bz2K9GJWOiSJmGEc3avUiAvhd5JjjZGZaoEjYkRg_A-7RRopZ_xDMsh4cvJUWBQzm-EEpeTlWGIkz2_RbPRrVC50LHaRcWOfBUci15vh2uhYZ5Fe4GGzyJSur48D/s1600/IMG_1021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcOCsKutHsG4daMc06Bz2K9GJWOiSJmGEc3avUiAvhd5JjjZGZaoEjYkRg_A-7RRopZ_xDMsh4cvJUWBQzm-EEpeTlWGIkz2_RbPRrVC50LHaRcWOfBUci15vh2uhYZ5Fe4GGzyJSur48D/s1600/IMG_1021.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There was really no rhyme or reason as to why I needed to test out this recipe. Maybe for the fact that I was itching to try something new. Or maybe because I wanted to use the <b>beloved</b> <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/10/raised-yeasted-waffles.html" target="_blank">waffle iron</a> I just <i>had</i> to have for the...second time now. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Probably a combination of both.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But regardless of the reason, this a unique, fun treat that you can't ignore. I'm serious. Particularly for the Snickerdoodle lovers of the world, you'll find this cookie twist quite refreshing.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidAyBEkDWh_6Hi3wvNr3WSmBbM11PSfw2oIo-r4WQkiRYsjLTXbDRd_BYrHEnYgfdNWYMFVc3NELuSH89bY4ozBbZ8ByHg05tDQCZsypMHD8UfptmwWtUY9WUuSnGZDorZLNMPgxaX474e/s1600/c%25CC%25A7%2540%25E2%2580%25930%25C2%25A2%253F%25E2%2580%2593%2560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidAyBEkDWh_6Hi3wvNr3WSmBbM11PSfw2oIo-r4WQkiRYsjLTXbDRd_BYrHEnYgfdNWYMFVc3NELuSH89bY4ozBbZ8ByHg05tDQCZsypMHD8UfptmwWtUY9WUuSnGZDorZLNMPgxaX474e/s1600/c%25CC%25A7%2540%25E2%2580%25930%25C2%25A2%253F%25E2%2580%2593%2560.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And how could you not? The classic cinnamon, buttery Snickerdoodle dough is baked to perfection on a waffle iron, producing a non-traditional, supa-cute cookie shape with an ever-so-slightly crunchy exterior encasing a soft, yet chewy center. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh, and then topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze that takes this goodie to the <i>next</i> Snickerdoodle level.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I won't be able to explain to you well enough just how addictive these little guys are. For those that I could bare to part with, I shared these cookies with our dog walker and the front desk staff in our building. Thank goodness for them, otherwise I would have consumed the entire batch on my own in <b>one</b><i> </i>weekend. Because once you start, the fun just don't stop!<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_55goG3ZghxSRokYmtWZUEpH98Aw3W0G7s1SYwgXjvYESna02FuY81dp0uGCS8TeppCPvEjT8xCfabCm2hrSU4r0eSVpkAbpg-JWCVbRqUiIJbxszdqrvpOQG4Mbo7lhetxDm7pELF0HC/s1600/IMG_1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_55goG3ZghxSRokYmtWZUEpH98Aw3W0G7s1SYwgXjvYESna02FuY81dp0uGCS8TeppCPvEjT8xCfabCm2hrSU4r0eSVpkAbpg-JWCVbRqUiIJbxszdqrvpOQG4Mbo7lhetxDm7pELF0HC/s1600/IMG_1017.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Until you have a stomach ache ☺︎</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I know you have more self control than I. So if you have a waffle iron [or are on your way to go get one!], I hope you're already gathering together the ingredient list. You'll thank me. You'll see.<br />
<br />
Happy baking! <b>.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCXvsi2xjodlq0NsicoOQrkOuilfCxbg0csEuBVh8oGsLQ2zoXkV-b2eo8trf1NH-QtY5B2SPNmXc-tY6hFFVVTMTKJgF7ictWXb76jEe48VTTlVabc6frz52xJqku7Mf-RBLfkyZeLcko/s1600/IMG_1031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCXvsi2xjodlq0NsicoOQrkOuilfCxbg0csEuBVh8oGsLQ2zoXkV-b2eo8trf1NH-QtY5B2SPNmXc-tY6hFFVVTMTKJgF7ictWXb76jEe48VTTlVabc6frz52xJqku7Mf-RBLfkyZeLcko/s1600/IMG_1031.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
From <a href="http://www.laurenslatest.com/" target="_blank">Lauren's Latest</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Snickerdoodle Dough:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. butter, at room temperature</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 c. packed light brown sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 large egg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1-1/4 c. all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 tsp. baking soda</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3/4 tsp. ground cinnamon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 tsp. salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Cinnamon Cream Cheese Glaze:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 oz. cream cheese, softened</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/3 c. powdered sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 to 3 tbsp. heavy whipping cream or milk </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ground cinnamon (to decorate)</div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<u>Directions</u>:<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>For the cookies, in a large bowl beat together <b>butter</b>, <b>sugar</b>, and <b>light</b> <b>brown</b> <b>sugar</b> until light and fluffy. Beat in <b>egg</b> and <b>vanilla</b> <b>extract</b> until smooth. Add <b>flour</b>, <b>baking</b> <b>soda</b>, <b>cinnamon</b>, and <b>salt</b>, and beat on low speed just until combined (batter will be thick).</li>
<li>Heat waffle iron. Scoop 1 tablespoonful of dough and shape into balls before placing onto waffle iron. Bake for desired time directed by your iron or until golden brown. Carefully remove cookies to wire rack to cool. Repeat until all of dough is used.</li>
<li>For glaze, beat together <b>cream</b> <b>cheese</b>, <b>powdered</b> <b>sugar</b>, and <b>vanilla</b> <b>extract</b> until smooth. Slowly beat in enough <b>cream</b> [or milk] to make glaze a drizzling consistency. Drizzle over waffle cookies and sprinkle with cinnamon. </li>
</ol>
<div>
Yield: 2 dozen cookies</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com3Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-30155394941676027472014-02-17T00:00:00.000-06:002014-02-17T00:00:09.560-06:00Secret Recipe Club: Frosted Sugar Cookies<b>. </b>It's been <i>months</i> since I last participated in <a href="http://secretrecipeclub.com/" target="_blank">SRC</a>. Must I mention that it's only because my forgetful self forgot to fill out the participation form? Oops...<br />
<br />
But we're back at for February, my very first SRC of 2014. And what better way to start off a brand new year than with a holiday celebration? And the most lovey-dovey, gooshy-wooshy holiday, to boot!<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Valentine's Day</i>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWxkEvyxNPJJX9A2HKrmAmpGTVuG1ElVGgEUlDiAJ15KCLV_YcYBZXiiTMXFVQmHY9bdJNueUKTzfdZ-sMOFHPT0Se0TXfmWNNQISXAJLCMKx5AYqIQK-O_bTiFwf9GvLFXRPQ8qC78_Ja/s1600/%C3%B7%08v%C2%BFZ%06v@.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWxkEvyxNPJJX9A2HKrmAmpGTVuG1ElVGgEUlDiAJ15KCLV_YcYBZXiiTMXFVQmHY9bdJNueUKTzfdZ-sMOFHPT0Se0TXfmWNNQISXAJLCMKx5AYqIQK-O_bTiFwf9GvLFXRPQ8qC78_Ja/s1600/%C3%B7%08v%C2%BFZ%06v@.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I love it.<br />
<br />
This month's SRC assignment was the <a href="http://www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Authentic Suburban Gourmet</a>, which I must start out by saying that Lisa [the blogger] is on another level. Like, she ain't joking about the 'gourmet' piece in her blog name. She is <i>quite</i> legit.<br />
<br />
From appetizers [like <a href="http://www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2014/01/wild-mushroom-crostini-friday-night.html" target="_blank">Wild Mushroom Crostinis</a>, <a href="http://www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2013/11/chutney-and-cheese-stuffed-dates-friday.html" target="_blank">Chutney and Cheese Stuffed Dates,</a> or <a href="http://www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2013/08/double-pesto-grilled-cheese-bites.html" target="_blank">Double Pesto Grilled Cheese Bites</a>], to entrees [think <a href="http://www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2009/04/coconut-crusted-tilapia-with-spicy.html" target="_blank">Coconut Crusted Tilapia</a>, <a href="http://www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2010/01/beef-wellington-with-brandy-peppercorn.html" target="_blank">Beef Wellington</a>, or the <a href="http://www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2013/08/the-mezzetta-italian-etta-sandwich.html" target="_blank">Mezzetta Italian-etta Sandwich</a>], and even desserts [such as <a href="http://www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2013/03/chocolate-buttermilk-donuts-with-salted.html" target="_blank">Chocolate Buttermilk Donuts with Salted Caramel Sauce</a> or <a href="http://www.authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2011/01/sticky-toffee-pudding-annual-team.html" target="_blank">Sticky Toffee Pudding</a>], Lisa brings her A-game. Each and every time.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-F8-rTfClPdlNb8PRoTdCfGo5YlyG4tCKKbE2keak2x1mdFz2aQF8P351SUe7_M97OP7M0U0I96YlcdUJSA2_LNAfxpwEGupVbxluQIpY1WwUBlCGgYqm73Vbz_YzccqC0u0t2FuOebLM/s1600/IMG_0972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-F8-rTfClPdlNb8PRoTdCfGo5YlyG4tCKKbE2keak2x1mdFz2aQF8P351SUe7_M97OP7M0U0I96YlcdUJSA2_LNAfxpwEGupVbxluQIpY1WwUBlCGgYqm73Vbz_YzccqC0u0t2FuOebLM/s1600/IMG_0972.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
However, fortunate for me, I went into this assignment with clear direction. And all I was seeing were hearts.<br />
<br />
Valentine's hearts, that is. Because even though our SRC reveal day is occurring <i>post</i> Valentine's Day, it didn't mean I wouldn't be bringing in treats for my co-workers on this red and pink strewn holiday. So I was immediately on the hunt for something Valentines-ey.<br />
<br />
And I found <b>it</b> immediately.<br />
<br />
A tender, buttery, subtly sweet sugar cookie topped with a lathering of ultra sweet frosting? Yes, please. And my co-workers were <i>all</i> about it, too. Hence, I came home with a crumb-free plate. A.k.a. no cookies for me...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEfyG1L5NBuc_xWy7uDie2doI-KWqV1Es2bEnrnkewLm5WwxdeBxPwBnaH4gAJ9fqFmtjx4sB-Z3nV57vOAk8wpB_BODbneaWB437NWGrYmNB1AOUFI_Mcb4EsA4ufOcs9xJEw1iCIm4Z/s1600/IMG_0977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEfyG1L5NBuc_xWy7uDie2doI-KWqV1Es2bEnrnkewLm5WwxdeBxPwBnaH4gAJ9fqFmtjx4sB-Z3nV57vOAk8wpB_BODbneaWB437NWGrYmNB1AOUFI_Mcb4EsA4ufOcs9xJEw1iCIm4Z/s1600/IMG_0977.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Lisa's <a href="http://authenticsuburbangourmet.blogspot.com/2013/02/conversation-heart-cookies.html" target="_blank">Conversation Heart Cookies</a> were <i>exactly </i>what I needed to celebrate Valentine's Day the <b>right</b> way. The cookies themselves were a piece of cake [not literally] to make and the one-bowl frosting was almost just as quick to whip together. So needless to say, the pairing of this almost shortbread flavor-like cookie with a creamy, classic, sugary-sweet frosting was <i>quite</i> divine. <br />
<br />
But although I did my best to brighten my co-workers Valentine's Day, a very special someone <b>also</b> did his part to make my day <i>very</i> memorable.<br />
<br />
I think I mentioned that Robbie is in Omaha all of February for work. Therefore, he was no where to be found on Valentine's Day. And because of that, I got <i>this</i> at work....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggk17t5V7oyBOhrx2tuOJbXrqp8L7XDDNmDPoiJsMCOUdP65n8tCVQXt97sVBL0nm8tI_ssXRCHeQ9m5pfyj-uY9O-1KwcFolsz6tK7mIZ7iLU5r5mHDXM74tbcj59zK-wG1_i_OHafcs/s1600/photo-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhggk17t5V7oyBOhrx2tuOJbXrqp8L7XDDNmDPoiJsMCOUdP65n8tCVQXt97sVBL0nm8tI_ssXRCHeQ9m5pfyj-uY9O-1KwcFolsz6tK7mIZ7iLU5r5mHDXM74tbcj59zK-wG1_i_OHafcs/s1600/photo-3.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Yes. Three dozen roses. And about 20 minutes later, a <a href="http://www.vermontteddybear.com/gift-finder/big-hunka-love.aspx#t1|ABFP36001" target="_blank">3-foot Vermont Teddy Bear</a> arrived at my desk.<br />
<br />
You can bet my face was a complete <i><span style="color: red;">cherry</span></i> at the arrival of all of these gifts and co-workers ooh-ed and aww-ed the entire rest of the day, it was most definitely a holiday I'll never forget. Not to mention that the bear I got is now my new favorite cuddle buddy.<br />
<br />
So even though the holiday of love has passed, I hope <i>everyone</i> had the chance to spend it with their loved ones. Or at least send them a text, note, or even a teddy bear, to let them know you're thinking about them.<br />
<br />
Love you all! <b>.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My Notes:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><i>I didn't have any meringue powder on hand, so I opted to use a frosting recipe I've used before. It's very sweet and tops these subtly favored cookies perfectly!</i></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhWnWJLrWhfyPSDxH9hG3e7nnCxTQNdyc3W8ay4PfGm4O7ynx_zlgBIqOJyGvPTwU3NPd2SMu93m1qHHSbwsf97ywCNbPY6xM9lGVXeG_TJJ0aSOGXP21rZRv4_Lx_jEkahVBQlRuFP9a/s1600/IMG_0976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhWnWJLrWhfyPSDxH9hG3e7nnCxTQNdyc3W8ay4PfGm4O7ynx_zlgBIqOJyGvPTwU3NPd2SMu93m1qHHSbwsf97ywCNbPY6xM9lGVXeG_TJJ0aSOGXP21rZRv4_Lx_jEkahVBQlRuFP9a/s1600/IMG_0976.JPG" height="640" width="618" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Adapted from Authentic Suburban Gourmet and <a href="http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/favorite-sugar-cookies" target="_blank">Taste of Home</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Sugar Cookies:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 c. butter, at room temperature</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3/4 c. sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 large egg</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3 c. all purpose flour</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 tsp. salt</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2 tsp. almond extract</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Frosting</i>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
6 tbsp. butter, at room temperature</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
3 c. powdered sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2 to 4 tbsp. milk</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Food coloring, sprinkles, etc. [for decorating]</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u>Directions</u>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #191919; font-family: Trebuchet, 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;">In a large bowl, cream together <b>butter</b> and <b>sugar</b> until fluffy [about 3 minutes]. Add <b>egg</b> and <b>salt</b> and mix together until incorporated. Add <b>vanilla</b> and <b>almond</b> <b>extract</b> and combine. Slowly add <b>flour</b>, one cup at a time, until incorporated. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;">Take dough out of the bowl and onto a cutting board. Knead together any extra bits. Divide dough into two balls and flatten into a 1-inch disk. Wrap individually and chill for 30 minutes. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;">Heat oven to 375ºF. Sprinkle clean work surface with flour. Unwrap one of the discs and use a rolling pin to roll out until ¼-inch thick. Use a 2-inch heart shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place on a greased baking sheet. Bake 8 to 9 minutes or until bottom edges are slightly golden brown. Remove to cool onto a wire rack. Repeat with scraps and remaining dough disc.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;">For frosting, combine butter, <b>powdered</b> <b>sugar</b>, vanilla extract, and <b>milk</b>, in a medium bowl and beat until smooth. Add <b>food</b> <b>coloring</b> [if using] to desired shade. Frost and decorate cookies as desired.</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: inherit;">Yield: 2 dozen cookies</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com8Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-8468240438774685702014-02-12T08:00:00.000-06:002014-02-17T10:17:57.232-06:00Oatmeal Creme Pies for My Love<b>. </b>Cheesy post alert.<br />
<br />
Okay, just kidding.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMW1Y5PrA5ZrP2ZE0jocn24512Iv_KPxNVIHDoMYSuyfMGE1aZVXXxVDV0dFikq4uII9n3ACl86UvPSoia1QNPKboOHGclWh8wYddQVblR06AHMrXg-6-wVRkz0pzfPhhXw7lwwVdUJO10/s1600/IMG_0948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMW1Y5PrA5ZrP2ZE0jocn24512Iv_KPxNVIHDoMYSuyfMGE1aZVXXxVDV0dFikq4uII9n3ACl86UvPSoia1QNPKboOHGclWh8wYddQVblR06AHMrXg-6-wVRkz0pzfPhhXw7lwwVdUJO10/s1600/IMG_0948.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
But you <i>must</i> know that Valentine's Day is <b>this</b> Friday! Can you ba-lieve it? And if you didn't know, you're welcome for reminding you. At least you still have a couple of more days to get a present for that special someone...<br />
<br />
But read this post first.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, my future hubby and I <i>won't</i> be together for Valentine's Day because as of this last Sunday, he will be in Omaha for the rest of the month for work. Stupid busy season 😑 <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyP3GTbVfl11-Pl9g6dZxJvGhhtIkoqbv-_Sc9bUSjnwNVnxAn7oPopHQpRoNyeFQJ4_246t200e2d8-4girNOs94YQ-gkbwYEOQdwr2OZXkaaFhwdt02kMXaB56NtSPCx0LQQXviRVGK9/s1600/OatmealPies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyP3GTbVfl11-Pl9g6dZxJvGhhtIkoqbv-_Sc9bUSjnwNVnxAn7oPopHQpRoNyeFQJ4_246t200e2d8-4girNOs94YQ-gkbwYEOQdwr2OZXkaaFhwdt02kMXaB56NtSPCx0LQQXviRVGK9/s1600/OatmealPies.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
But before he was off to the Nebraskan 'Good Life', I <i>had</i> to make something to hold him over for the month. Which means...a lot of something. Portable.<br />
<br />
So cookie sandwiches it was!<br />
<br />
Robbie loves anything and everything vanilla or cream. Or both! And he can vouch, I did good on this one. Or rather <a href="http://www.bakeorbreak.com/" target="_blank">Bake or Break</a> [BoB] did.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8KpXnXnXoFtvWkfyIz0wr8fzvccAOE-c-8810Yanj6AWJjDkbcfGHK0cIicQ_Aeu1wbxqntt3xhTp21Hb8xb5zE5yJEumi7E0PPqmc9575munqxiyHDirqR_KKIR9SiUIvajfmVM2Ymb/s1600/IMG_0930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8KpXnXnXoFtvWkfyIz0wr8fzvccAOE-c-8810Yanj6AWJjDkbcfGHK0cIicQ_Aeu1wbxqntt3xhTp21Hb8xb5zE5yJEumi7E0PPqmc9575munqxiyHDirqR_KKIR9SiUIvajfmVM2Ymb/s1600/IMG_0930.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
These Oatmeal Creme Pies are meant to resemble the cookie sandwiches from back in the day. But I'll be <i>quite</i> honest, I'm not sure I'm old enough to remember these? Or my parents were just plain cruel and hid them from me. You decide.<br />
<br />
Regardless, we hit the jackpot with this recipe. But I am not one bit surprised since the recipe is from BoB, one of my <i style="font-weight: bold;">all time</i> favorite blogs. Think <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2011/03/hummingbird-cupcakes.html" target="_blank">Hummingbird Cupcakes</a>, <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2011/02/bake-or-breaks-oatmeal-chocolate-chip.html" target="_blank">Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cake</a>, or <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2012/01/banana-cake.html" target="_blank">Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting</a>. Each one a <i>guaranteed</i> pleaser. Cross my fingers.<br />
<br />
And this treat followed suit. All the way from the chewy, chewy, cinnamon-ey oatmeal cookies to the über sweet creamy vanilla filling. You just can't. go. wrong.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxZfe2bq1I3w8xut8JQnK68koN6Fr5twWc0fCHTMgzDroUz88E6iEGvqFkxswGssOqRdujnVDcRJXdaZHSa7rFUwDP2nIh8NjyDVAdU5xOR-peeOk06fHWxhLMaALflW_NMU2WX-XYimc/s1600/IMG_0936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZxZfe2bq1I3w8xut8JQnK68koN6Fr5twWc0fCHTMgzDroUz88E6iEGvqFkxswGssOqRdujnVDcRJXdaZHSa7rFUwDP2nIh8NjyDVAdU5xOR-peeOk06fHWxhLMaALflW_NMU2WX-XYimc/s1600/IMG_0936.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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And I'm <i>extremely</i> proud to say that the container filled with these wondrous creme pies made it safely across the Midwest to the Hilton where Robbie will spend the next few weeks. He better think of me every time he dips his paws in that container...<br />
<br />
So although these cookies aren't sprinkled with pink confetti or packed with red filling, I made this treat with my [forever] Valentine in mind. So I hope he's happy with my V-day contribution 💘<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKiBVbXFp1abw1kymPvlrMuTjVD-mTujO9PhTBOPIep8hzJyQkkdSJcdPj9aKqfJI_ykcOVR9JtnqgjoeTrBJxj_iYj1i8ZSob_r9ucdYAZPkHaRLRovaXPHYlcyNVmQkddQa9XtAH6AIh/s1600/IMG_0955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKiBVbXFp1abw1kymPvlrMuTjVD-mTujO9PhTBOPIep8hzJyQkkdSJcdPj9aKqfJI_ykcOVR9JtnqgjoeTrBJxj_iYj1i8ZSob_r9ucdYAZPkHaRLRovaXPHYlcyNVmQkddQa9XtAH6AIh/s1600/IMG_0955.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I wish everyone a lovey-dovey Valentine's Day, and hoping you spend it with the ones who mean most to you. Plus it's on a Friday, so you have no excuse to not make some plans!<br />
<br />
Love you all! <b>.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My Notes:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><i>The original recipe only yielded 18 cookie sandwiches, but I managed to squeeze out two dozen. The serving size will depend on generous you are with your scooping!</i></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><i>I honestly didn't think half of my cookie sandwiches would receive frosting but that stuff went a long way! You don't need much in each sandwich because it's definitely sweet.</i></li>
</ul>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSLFJjT4zDW11gPTMo1fVpRnBcMOxgS6ZpJZvi7hRddoHsjLjNniFokSvXk3wzmHuaKb33oRCCHvwBvyhYkgR75cuFoMuXGO5hUw24DG-hLJ2q25rrFHZm2WaoQjgC3EJe4gS9BjRXzoi9/s1600/IMG_0945.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSLFJjT4zDW11gPTMo1fVpRnBcMOxgS6ZpJZvi7hRddoHsjLjNniFokSvXk3wzmHuaKb33oRCCHvwBvyhYkgR75cuFoMuXGO5hUw24DG-hLJ2q25rrFHZm2WaoQjgC3EJe4gS9BjRXzoi9/s1600/IMG_0945.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
From Bake or Break</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Oatmeal Cookies:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1-1/4 c. unsalted butter, softened</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 c. packed light brown sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 large egg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1-1/2 c. all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. baking soda</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 tsp. salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 c. quick-cooking oats</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Vanilla Cream Filling:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. unsalted butter, softened</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 c. powdered sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 tbsp. heavy whipping cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Directions</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li>Heat oven to 375ºF. Grease baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray or line with parchment paper.</li>
<li>For the cookies, cream together <b>butter</b>, <b>brown</b> <b>sugar</b>, and <b>sugar</b> until light and fluffy [about 3 minutes]. Add <b>egg</b> and <b>vanilla</b> <b>extract</b> and mix well. </li>
<li>Stir together <b>flour</b>, <b>baking</b> <b>soda</b>, <b>salt</b>, <b>cinnamon</b>, and <b>oats</b>. Gradually pour in flour mixture to wet ingredients and stir until well combined.</li>
<li>Drop dough by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets [about 2-inches apart]. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are slightly browned and centers are basically set. Cool on pan for a couple of minutes before removing to wire rack to cool completely. Repeat with remaining dough.</li>
<li>While cookies are cooling, for filling, combine butter, <b>powdered</b> <b>sugar</b>, <b>heavy</b> <b>whipping</b> <b>cream</b>, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl and beat together until smooth. Spread about 1 tablespoon of filling on half of cookies and top with remaining half of cookies to create sandwiches.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Yield: 2 dozen cookie sandwiches</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://mangiablog.com/2014/02/17/secret-recipe-club-22/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_BM0GkIU-YK_uMviPQusQ215bw1AIqgwekb4MnT5Lk2m-ZrNuGkj3lsXX-i957uLewUJzUml04SXkQKP1m2iGyi1yIpDXGe-xwuXUGIUWisrtvU-DdQdHhzQMB9nVUSXy2ExVvuJXtilV/s1600/srcrecreate.jpg" height="156" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEgKk1H_5Ps9UgaNd3KZJFlxVTmqwTcQ842ZxKUsN5qQe5XpDOfwqhbQEEnDYlvMql0iz1zVWrXfac8qzcVXRMT7cDO1WGkbtOvDUwoLPxfQbmvZ0tqH4f10f1oVzFhbOidPWzIqIDurF0H41cvW4AO4WUaQUcmBTzcdJg=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="post signature" border="0" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /></a>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd202RGG2YPO3Xvy333T16a0zyuhOWshAPiLa5j0WsgN1e_vAtQw4ViZIkaB6BgTCdXAZpxC4M5vZZoog9DklondhHSvBdQksH3m3Pz0SwVZWshtT84aU5Eg4WhmkNaBX-kW80Og0sJXW2/s1600/IMG_0704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd202RGG2YPO3Xvy333T16a0zyuhOWshAPiLa5j0WsgN1e_vAtQw4ViZIkaB6BgTCdXAZpxC4M5vZZoog9DklondhHSvBdQksH3m3Pz0SwVZWshtT84aU5Eg4WhmkNaBX-kW80Og0sJXW2/s1600/IMG_0704.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
As you know, because I've not spared one moment to tell you, <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-photos-to-remember-forever.html" target="_blank">wedding</a> consumes every waking thought of mine. Can you imagine how hard it is to work during the day?! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But just this last weekend I was in Arizona with my two long time besties from Minnesota and future mother-in-law for what is sure to be one of the most emotionally charged weekends I've been through. So many weeks leading up to this monumental weekend in the wedding planning process, I've been trying to put all of my thoughts together as well as keep up with the many wedding 'tasks' one must. So I'll just be honest, it was a <i>miracle</i> I even got that <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2014/01/brown-sugar-cinnamon-pop-tarts.html" target="_blank">pop-tart post</a> out. But more on the wedding weekend later. I'll need a post [and a half] to get through everything ☺️</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Plus...it's <i>finally</i> time to get into <b>another</b> giveaway here on LSM. And yes, it's with Musselman's!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16e8ImWPsGmOey8YCEkljROTCKlu4J89p40s-Hdlz_AJDgwj2XyoNiThMc7v8Xy8M5SLzLXvyXe2QhPJCHqQk779BK1Q6sN3c7Jq4i1DlndtB6mHsp3qOEdKoHFo9-jIB_fBQ0CdWpQB7/s1600/Apple+Bites.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg16e8ImWPsGmOey8YCEkljROTCKlu4J89p40s-Hdlz_AJDgwj2XyoNiThMc7v8Xy8M5SLzLXvyXe2QhPJCHqQk779BK1Q6sN3c7Jq4i1DlndtB6mHsp3qOEdKoHFo9-jIB_fBQ0CdWpQB7/s1600/Apple+Bites.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
And the <i style="font-weight: bold;">giveaway</i> is all about...<b>game day goodies</b>!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The package I received included a large jar of <a href="http://musselmans.com/products/apple-butter/" target="_blank">Musselman's Apple Butter</a>, a few easy game day recipes, and ...<i>drum roll please</i>....<br />
<br />
A <a href="http://www.armetale.com/grillware-pizza-tray.html" target="_blank">Wilton Armetale Grillware Pizza Tray</a>! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpb4mn8SykqcIBsxy5AaUKwo2b9WhDR63tc-EQuPNEnHq1zMDrXjlKHbduGSLblp21bXnSc2nXSI82lSRq-v05Q-mhqsMNTdpH52CQfjkJcZLLDWjZuwQbMzGThE1RwIX7tT5oQMHJKJ3I/s1600/MM+Apple+Butter+Reader+Giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpb4mn8SykqcIBsxy5AaUKwo2b9WhDR63tc-EQuPNEnHq1zMDrXjlKHbduGSLblp21bXnSc2nXSI82lSRq-v05Q-mhqsMNTdpH52CQfjkJcZLLDWjZuwQbMzGThE1RwIX7tT5oQMHJKJ3I/s1600/MM+Apple+Butter+Reader+Giveaway.jpg" height="484" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This piece of cookware is quite honestly, unbelievable. The tray can be used for prep, on the grill, on the stovetop, <i>or</i> in the oven, then <i>straight </i>to the table! A duo of grillware <i style="font-weight: bold;">and</i> serve ware, what more could you ask for?!<br />
<br />
But not only will you receive this multi-purpose pizza tray, but also Musselman's delicious apple butter and recipes perfect for the big games! Think March Madness, people...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz5HpdUesNKjTCTXWwbY2OBzxwFKhzI1J7IkvEy_OaImkjoTSls4uBTn4pyBUshZ2YBy3YMiQoqKrCqI_n-ArnmbuMQ96SBmR1bF2c2wwOYersr7v_MVKXbxth7-xbXVUH1kqVi5l1iDfd/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz5HpdUesNKjTCTXWwbY2OBzxwFKhzI1J7IkvEy_OaImkjoTSls4uBTn4pyBUshZ2YBy3YMiQoqKrCqI_n-ArnmbuMQ96SBmR1bF2c2wwOYersr7v_MVKXbxth7-xbXVUH1kqVi5l1iDfd/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Out of my package, I decided I just had to try the easy peasy recipe of <a href="http://musselmans.com/recipes/recipe-detail/?id=1423&name=Peanut+Butter+Apple+Bites" target="_blank">Peanut Butter Apple Bites</a>. Who doesn't love little bite-sized snacks to pop in your mouth throughout the game? You have to keep that stamina up if you're going to properly cheer, so peanut butter and apple are the almighty couple.<br />
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These little bites are basically the inside of a truffle. Creamy and soft. Without the fuss of all that dipping! Don't get me wrong, who doesn't love a chocolatey outside, but the centers are where the magic happens. So here you are.<br />
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And what is that <i style="font-weight: bold;">you</i> need to do to get this <u>free</u> package?! Simple.<br />
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Leave a comment below telling me what <i>your</i> favorite game day treat is. No matter what it may be. I told you it was simple!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUPCsernk5wqQLgQWMLuX462_NgNEa6Q_a16PCUsYFQLW9EIQyLzxnpuvoC244N3oG5BcX3cmUwUVhAN8uSQydAoHvWTolIA6AygG5_coC_iQVBJG1d_JBsHXyvpmOugvG1xywFV-QePV/s1600/IMG_0695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrUPCsernk5wqQLgQWMLuX462_NgNEa6Q_a16PCUsYFQLW9EIQyLzxnpuvoC244N3oG5BcX3cmUwUVhAN8uSQydAoHvWTolIA6AygG5_coC_iQVBJG1d_JBsHXyvpmOugvG1xywFV-QePV/s1600/IMG_0695.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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This giveaway will be open until Friday, February 28, so you only have a few weeks to join. Get commenting! <b>.</b><br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com39Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-344292368978294262014-01-28T08:00:00.000-06:002014-01-28T08:00:04.272-06:00Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tarts<b>. </b>'Wedding' has undoubtedly taken over my life. I'm <i>completely</i> and <i>undeniably </i>consumed.<br />
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From <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/04/i-hearwedding-bells.html" target="_blank">the engagement</a>, to picking out a <a href="http://uw.theknot.com/view/4681022628309451/35475795" target="_blank">wedding planner</a>, designing/managing a <a href="http://www.theknot.com/wedding/Jess-and-Robbie" target="_blank">wedding website</a>, interviewing/selecting a number of vendors, <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-photos-to-remember-forever.html" target="_blank">engagement photos</a>, creating a save the date, <i>stressing</i> over which bridesmaid dress to choose, emotionally selecting <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2014/01/the-photos-to-remember-forever.html" target="_blank">my <b>own</b> wedding dress</a>...<br />
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<b><i>WHEW!</i></b><br />
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Who freakin' knew a wedding would be so much work. Now I understand why people elope...<br />
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So with all of this wedding shenanigans going, the <i>first</i> half of the <b>first</b> month of the New Year has completely passed me by. Particularly in posts. Which I do feel bad about.<br />
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Due to the fact that every waking moment I'm <i>not</i> working my mind is reeling about anything and everything wedding, I've had little brain power to devote to this dear blog. I realize life happens, but I try to remind myself that I can't forget about the <i>other </i>important things. Like my fiancé [he <b>is</b> the reason there's a wedding, anyhow!]. My sweet baby pups. Shopping [☺️]. And, of course, LSM.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbpV-dzTC6LYer5cTK0ckCs5FU1DcrK__2Iqq5Lu4ApV9z4TLp6tXxS_9yMKrRsx1D6ulZnN4H6cnCRCbAIcyC7vzC2rc_oZOhFt1itaUbgr8QQU07wBZ4ixOyFHlH_qnrYMoKf3AX8kho/s1600/IMG_0629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbpV-dzTC6LYer5cTK0ckCs5FU1DcrK__2Iqq5Lu4ApV9z4TLp6tXxS_9yMKrRsx1D6ulZnN4H6cnCRCbAIcyC7vzC2rc_oZOhFt1itaUbgr8QQU07wBZ4ixOyFHlH_qnrYMoKf3AX8kho/s1600/IMG_0629.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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So in attempt to ring in the New Year [a month late] and one of my [informal] resolutions, I opted to try out a baked goodie I'd never attempted. And it just so happened to be at the request of my good ol' fiancé because they're his <i>fav</i>.<br />
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Brown Sugar. Cinnamon. Pop-Tarts.<br />
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Not gonna lie, if I had to choose a <a href="http://www.poptarts.com/" target="_blank">Pop-Tart</a> to [absolutely] devour, this would not be in my top 10. I usually went straight for flavors like <a href="http://www.poptarts.com/flavors/ice-cream/hot-fudge-sundae" target="_blank">Hot Fudge Sundae</a> [no doubt <b>my</b> favorite], <a href="http://www.poptarts.com/flavors/chocolate/chocolate-chip-cookie-dough" target="_blank">Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough</a>, <a href="http://www.poptarts.com/flavors/fruit/cherry" target="_blank">Cherry</a>, or <a href="http://www.poptarts.com/flavors/wildlicious/wildlicious-wild-strawberry" target="_blank">Wild Strawberry</a>. Something with a little more...<i>oomph</i>...than brown sugar. Get me?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlD6Zb1-8_4-oq7CR-zHPdcgLVgJOp0UUPwaHKuZ582dPCuzTuw9Be48pB0qKKTiHkQS7iJibcBqh6ktLY4hcK0Y7eI5SvffUs4iBn4c_zJMPIts_5jP5UZ9FfWftd0EMO054EZCcfNKcW/s1600/Poptarts+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlD6Zb1-8_4-oq7CR-zHPdcgLVgJOp0UUPwaHKuZ582dPCuzTuw9Be48pB0qKKTiHkQS7iJibcBqh6ktLY4hcK0Y7eI5SvffUs4iBn4c_zJMPIts_5jP5UZ9FfWftd0EMO054EZCcfNKcW/s1600/Poptarts+2.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
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But fortunately I have Robbie in my life for things just like this. Because without him, I never would have given this recipe a second glance. But since I was trying to be a good fiancée, I <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jesswaka/to-bake-list/" target="_blank">pinned</a> the dang thing. And then made it. Just for my Wobbie.<br />
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And I'll just be honest with you all. I ate more of them than he did.<br />
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There. I admitted it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhk_qBY_DCjbQ4JF7_J2gcKWPjj8a1wdYE5fkBJFsN0g4aeFve91Hnc-C3F1TCcwKI5qBhjd8-lWBy35RVp78jJtPKU5Dk5KvP601ItmKSvx4GFlilAq4eoD23Y4Bd8I6DCpKQRBoUMMT/s1600/Poptarts+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifhk_qBY_DCjbQ4JF7_J2gcKWPjj8a1wdYE5fkBJFsN0g4aeFve91Hnc-C3F1TCcwKI5qBhjd8-lWBy35RVp78jJtPKU5Dk5KvP601ItmKSvx4GFlilAq4eoD23Y4Bd8I6DCpKQRBoUMMT/s1600/Poptarts+3.jpg" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
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These flakey, buttery pastries filled with a sweet, brown sugar-cinnamon filling, and dolloped with a simple cinnamon glaze are to. die. for. And simply irresistible. <br />
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I kept telling myself to stop. But I couldn't. Then one. Two. Oh, two and half, were gone. Dang it...<br />
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So what more can I say? Except that you'd be making a big mistake to pass these up. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDXV-wrHnXAjwBx8sljEPKxKoP6oQwFjpv52eXnRAcGI4UaMA4z4ZEhRk0F9Uy27Uxv7LG6_QrX24rfccV5bc88jtr7Eo0OCOgLEkZpJq7qS74TeWVi2LfsuTuEAe8eT7Bo_I7hNZc0p3/s1600/IMG_0732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSDXV-wrHnXAjwBx8sljEPKxKoP6oQwFjpv52eXnRAcGI4UaMA4z4ZEhRk0F9Uy27Uxv7LG6_QrX24rfccV5bc88jtr7Eo0OCOgLEkZpJq7qS74TeWVi2LfsuTuEAe8eT7Bo_I7hNZc0p3/s1600/IMG_0732.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Maybe we'll take a stab at my New Years resolution [i.e., doing things for <i>others</i>] the next baking round...sorry, Wob <b>.</b><br />
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Adapted from <a href="http://www.the-baker-chick.com/" target="_blank">The Baker Chick</a></div>
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<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
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<i>Pastry Crust:</i></div>
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2-1/2 c. all purpose flour</div>
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1 tsp. salt</div>
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1 tsp. sugar</div>
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1 c. unsalted butter, cold and cut into chunks</div>
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1/4 c. cold water</div>
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<i>Brown Sugar Cinnamon Filling:</i></div>
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1/2 c. packed brown sugar</div>
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1-1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon</div>
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4 tsp. all purpose flour</div>
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1 large egg</div>
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<i>Cinnamon Glaze:</i></div>
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1/4 c. powdered sugar</div>
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1 tsp. ground cinnamon</div>
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3 to 4 tbsp. heaving whipping cream</div>
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<u>Directions</u>:</div>
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<ol>
<li>For the pie crust, place the <b>flour</b>, <b>salt</b>, and <b>sugar</b> in a food processor and pulse just to combine. Add <b>butter</b> and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. With the processor on, add <b>cold</b> <b>water</b> in a steady stream just until dough holds together [do not process for more than 30 seconds]. Turn the dough out to a work surface and divide dough in half. Shape each half into a slightly flattened disk and wrap with plastic wrap. Refrigerate dough for 1 hour.</li>
<li>Remove dough from refrigerator and allow to soften [about 15 minutes]. Place one half of dough onto a lightly floured work surface and roll to 1/8-inch thick. Trim the edges and cut dough into thirds to form 9 rectangles. Place the rectangles onto lightly greased pans. Repeat with second half of dough to form the tops of the pop-tarts.</li>
<li>For the filling, stir together <b>brown</b> <b>sugar</b>, <b>cinnamon</b>, and <b>flour</b> to combine; set aside. Slightly whisk the <b>egg</b> and brush onto the bottom pieces of the pop tarts [on the greased baking sheets]. Place a heaping tablespoon of the filling onto each of the rectangles and spread evenly, leaving a slight edge around the dough. Place a second rectangle on top of the filling and slightly press down along the edges with your fingers to seal the pop-tarts. Press the tines of a fork around the edges to complete the sealing process. Repeat with the remaining pop-tarts.</li>
<li>Prick the tops of each pop-tart with a fork so steam can escape while baking. Brush the tops of the pop-tarts with the remaining egg mixture. Refrigerate the pop-tarts for 30 minutes.</li>
<li>Heat oven to 350ºF. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before moving to wire racks to cool completely.</li>
<li>While pop-tarts are baking, stir together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and heavy whipping cream to make the glaze. Once pop-tarts have cooled to a lukewarm, evenly spread the glaze across the tops of the pop-tarts.</li>
</ol>
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Yield: 9 pastries</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEgKk1H_5Ps9UgaNd3KZJFlxVTmqwTcQ842ZxKUsN5qQe5XpDOfwqhbQEEnDYlvMql0iz1zVWrXfac8qzcVXRMT7cDO1WGkbtOvDUwoLPxfQbmvZ0tqH4f10f1oVzFhbOidPWzIqIDurF0H41cvW4AO4WUaQUcmBTzcdJg=" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="post signature" border="0" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /></a><br />
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And now it's finally time to spill the beans.</div>
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Except for one small fact...I can't. Yet.</div>
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Because you see, one of my <i>exciting</i> wedding updates is that with the help of my dear mom and soon-to-be mother-in-law, '<b><u>I said yes to the dress</u></b>!'</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJhvmc5AE41-scpvnQf8gxX1fpYQhRayeLOImnxW722WQG2sLuYN2bf5cKGZeMwsBObLz3scX1xEFfZruAsuOs0Ecs-oSNscR_Z6dZeOFyRQSxXTtGQfh0-3kG02QSQgp-cMB9dcDBww1/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUJhvmc5AE41-scpvnQf8gxX1fpYQhRayeLOImnxW722WQG2sLuYN2bf5cKGZeMwsBObLz3scX1xEFfZruAsuOs0Ecs-oSNscR_Z6dZeOFyRQSxXTtGQfh0-3kG02QSQgp-cMB9dcDBww1/s1600/photo.JPG" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
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And then it dawned on me that, yeah, I can't share much with you: I can't post any pictures, give any details, nuttin'! Because who knows when Robbie will hop on over to LSM to see what's been going on. But what I <i>can </i>tell you is that I most definitely had that <b>moment</b> when I knew it was the one.</div>
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Yes, I cried. I couldn't help it. I never thought I'd be <i>that</i> person but it was just a flood of emotion that came too fast. There was no controlling it. But honestly, I'm glad it happened. Because from there on out I knew in the back of my mind that <b>it</b> was <i>it</i>. I did try on other dresses and we even ventured to another bridal salon just for kicks. But then we marched right on back to our first appointment venue and proclaimed my decision. Cheers!</div>
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Fortunately, my second wedding update is one that involves nothing <b>BUT </b>pictures. </div>
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Yes. <i style="font-weight: bold;">Engagement photos</i>!</div>
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It's been a long time coming but I can't explain to you enough how elated I am with our engagement photos. Robbie and I are no naturals in front of the camera, but Brandon Werth, of <a href="http://brandonwerth.com/" target="_blank">Brandon Werth Photography</a>, was the only person who could have captured such memorable photos for us. </div>
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I could go on for days about how wonderful the engagement session was, how much fun Robbie and I <i>both</i> had, and how truly <b>blessed</b> we felt to have snagged Brandon as our photographer. But you can see all of that in his pictures. And what's even <i>more</i> fortunate is that Brandon will be our wedding day photographer, too. Can't. Even. Wait. for his magic to unleash!</div>
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Well enough babbling. Aside from the <a href="http://brandonwerth.com/blog/jessrobbie" target="_blank">engagement session preview</a> Brandon posted on his blog, here are some of <i>our</i> favorite snapshots from that special day in October...</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com6Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-69454219000184029732014-01-01T21:17:00.000-06:002014-01-01T21:36:27.220-06:00A Chance to Reflect<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<strong>. </strong>I may have mentioned in my <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/12/peppermint-fudge-cookie-sandwiches.html" target="_blank">last post</a> [which was seemingly <i>forever</i> ago] that I'd be spending Christmas back in Minnesota with the familia and then Robbie and I headed to Arizona to hang out with his family for a few days.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On a hike in the Saguaro Forest in Desert Mountain. Beautiful, huh? The scenery is pretty, too... ;)</td></tr>
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I unfortunately had to come back to Minnesota early because I was [supposed] to work, but due to an unforeseen event I'm staying in my hometown for a few more days. More to come on <i>that</i> though. And don't worry, it's for a <b>good </b>reason.</div>
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Anywho, during these last <u>two</u> weeks that I've been off work [and yes, it's been <i>glorious</i>], I've had quite some time to think about the drastic turns my life has taken.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So long 2013. The last year I'll be a Wakasugi!</td></tr>
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If you missed some posts earlier this year or just didn't catch on, the beginning of 2013 seemed to be the end of Robbie and mine's relationship. We had been going through a rocky time for a few months and needed some time away from each other. After a few months into the new year, we somehow started talking. I think it may have been because of the pups? But at some point, we realized that things just <em>weren't</em> over.<br />
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Fast forward a couple of months later and the next thing I knew, Robbie was <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/04/i-hearwedding-bells.html" target="_blank">down on one knee</a> asking to spend the rest of our lives together. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdLe4-G5_CXXY2WmAfxihpJ-RwCL-4toIS6TUHaDCkcD2myXg1wrxNzQN2qOdbsGTJltYRpPC_K2fbo_FwlQR-YpDZCN6lbc8Df9YShqh4mjg93HYkiGJObYOPQBBaaSrIvJHzC44Hws2/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhdLe4-G5_CXXY2WmAfxihpJ-RwCL-4toIS6TUHaDCkcD2myXg1wrxNzQN2qOdbsGTJltYRpPC_K2fbo_FwlQR-YpDZCN6lbc8Df9YShqh4mjg93HYkiGJObYOPQBBaaSrIvJHzC44Hws2/s640/photo.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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From there, the whirlwind of 2013 began, beginning with thinking about planning a wedding, then making trips to Arizona to find ourselves a wedding planner, and then <strong>BAM</strong>...<br />
<br />
I got a new job.<br />
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And we were <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/07/chi-town-its-really-happening.html" target="_blank">moving to our most favorite city</a>: Chicago.<br />
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And this all happened in less than 4 months.<br />
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Engagement. <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/08/an-assortment-of-things.html" target="_blank">New job. New city. New life.</a><br />
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And in between all of this, Robbie and I were <b><i>completely</i></b> honored to be named the godparents of Robbie's family's first grandchild, <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/07/life-updatesmore-updates.html" target="_blank">Danny</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjEcz7GLnZHziye54CgJCx2_8oAwQRY5VJHAhlzm7vGKKYctPer90ya3LrhYXGmPSyaTx6p9keYwxSxEwBcUZe71USegeV9P_KWu3YqJY1MsBllB2V9PRD9AF0QNMPsxW6UFalwyFlybR/s1600/DPP_0037+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjEcz7GLnZHziye54CgJCx2_8oAwQRY5VJHAhlzm7vGKKYctPer90ya3LrhYXGmPSyaTx6p9keYwxSxEwBcUZe71USegeV9P_KWu3YqJY1MsBllB2V9PRD9AF0QNMPsxW6UFalwyFlybR/s640/DPP_0037+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby Danny. Look at those baby blues!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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But not only did some monumental things happen in my own life, my younger brother had also made some tremendous strides this year, including college graduation and <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/05/lets-catch-up-commissioning-and.html" target="_blank">commissioning</a> as a Second Lieutenant in the Army, completing Skills Training for the police academy, completing the Basic Officer Leadership Course for the military and finished as the Second Honor Graduate. Quite a year for Ty, I would say!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcM463E1AA5uXdmBga29IDzxfi7_bVF8nltE1NyeHrW-nXYfQ3UJ_s5hGxUK7Ag2Frv_5bbZZG098uOccBP-1Te21QgJLjm0hxU5V7bJl3v8tGl37hD77RPP_h4K82TiHAnQMJZpmD0XZo/s1600/photo+(34).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcM463E1AA5uXdmBga29IDzxfi7_bVF8nltE1NyeHrW-nXYfQ3UJ_s5hGxUK7Ag2Frv_5bbZZG098uOccBP-1Te21QgJLjm0hxU5V7bJl3v8tGl37hD77RPP_h4K82TiHAnQMJZpmD0XZo/s640/photo+(34).jpg" width="562" /></a></div>
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So now do you see where I'm coming from? 2013 was a year that started at [in hindsight] a low in my life and evolved into one of <b>the</b> most <i>blessed</i> years I could ever imagine. I will so boldly say that the [unlucky] number 13 was the best year I've had in my 26 year life. <br />
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But as I reflect on this past year, I can't help but feel eager for the future. 2014 has some big things in store. Not only will I put a <b><i>big</i></b> stamp on my 7 [going on 8] year relationship with Robbie, making promises to each other that are so ever sacred. But I am miraculously fortunate to share this very special time with <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/08/an-assortment-of-things.html" target="_blank">my best friend</a>, who will be getting married the month before. We've had endless numbers of texts on wedding ideas and asking for each others opinions. As a girl friend, I really couldn't have asked for anything more.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPn3eVl7umvAffpTwwSnVh732n_yr6oZqR4NpjwVqWrSMCJcJB2G5QoYKKry5drecX-utpu5ui1w4VOya-63J2ceyz8rnFM12Nkatp5Yk7pGCudxeYLvdzbkbiyx0aLXY-FqYeu_XexGqa/s1600/photo+%25281%2529+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPn3eVl7umvAffpTwwSnVh732n_yr6oZqR4NpjwVqWrSMCJcJB2G5QoYKKry5drecX-utpu5ui1w4VOya-63J2ceyz8rnFM12Nkatp5Yk7pGCudxeYLvdzbkbiyx0aLXY-FqYeu_XexGqa/s640/photo+%25281%2529+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best friends a girl could have! Fortunately I got to see these ladies during my vacay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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So although 2013 was <em>undoubtedly</em> memorable, I absolutely can not wait to see what this new year holds. <br />
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Cheers to everyone and I wish you <b>YOUR </b>best year yet! <b>.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxFNiFcNiOhfDsTfv6orFa7MOe2lPKix2boaD-8O5qNwIaqw5xQa2v-YLhTuDLZF6rAylJq-3YnabMgDRaB2iBaIBjOwn_v8WBPJjXpFotW7xGUg6q4BVgzMYAP1-ff1LevJLzCcxaNri/s1600/d1f5616cb1e0e63d5b56ebb22418cef2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxFNiFcNiOhfDsTfv6orFa7MOe2lPKix2boaD-8O5qNwIaqw5xQa2v-YLhTuDLZF6rAylJq-3YnabMgDRaB2iBaIBjOwn_v8WBPJjXpFotW7xGUg6q4BVgzMYAP1-ff1LevJLzCcxaNri/s400/d1f5616cb1e0e63d5b56ebb22418cef2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<i>P.S.</i> As I promised, I do have some exciting wedding updates that I want to clue everyone in on. It will come, I promise! Plus, I also got a fun Christmas present this year related to my blog and I can't wait to share. Coming soon... ☺<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com3Woodbury, MN, USA44.9238552 -92.959379744.8338837 -93.1207412 45.013826699999996 -92.7980182tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-7564033765315422282013-12-20T20:46:00.003-06:002013-12-20T20:46:49.728-06:00Peppermint Fudge Cookie Sandwiches<b>. </b>Okay, this is getting serious. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YKbqapyS601VbNFqm7FaIAm5V5OGlLZ0Uep5m8Ikrf_qXVXcDsh_krdzPeE2bmPDS8V5N6WquZkNSu3DWOECcXkX2vJ2HZ8fyBk5Z7Sy7lZXS3L-6Ouk9jrFU1OwUT_axJesXXE-0iTI/s1600/image_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6YKbqapyS601VbNFqm7FaIAm5V5OGlLZ0Uep5m8Ikrf_qXVXcDsh_krdzPeE2bmPDS8V5N6WquZkNSu3DWOECcXkX2vJ2HZ8fyBk5Z7Sy7lZXS3L-6Ouk9jrFU1OwUT_axJesXXE-0iTI/s640/image_1.jpg" width="468" /></a></div>
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Christmas is less than 5 days away and I still have some serious Christmas recipes to share. So in part to the fact that I have little to no time to pump out these posts...let's get right to it. Short and sweet.<br />
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First. These cookies are <i>ah-maze</i>. And I'm not joking. They very much remind me of the <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2012/05/dark-chocolate-lava-cookies.html" target="_blank">dark chocolate lava cookies</a> that seem to melt away in your mouth. I mean, I named these 'fudge' cookies for a reason, right? And for an extra special touch, you're getting a double dose of chocolate with the mini chocolate chips studded throughout. Because who doesn't need more chocolate? Plus they add a subtle crunchy texture to these luscious, seemingly creamy, cookies.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbNVxE0ObVYqUNZwAZTPnloW-gJmqLdnDnd4QF99PHZgJ5UbqR7OPhu1vJv4vaXJpsBa91XYY8E8z4Bnhj5JcI2n8X0zVpDx4Kd-wi4I1hXufCbSod_4oWkZHK-mAvH_j_WlYL2bcMX6i/s1600/image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbNVxE0ObVYqUNZwAZTPnloW-gJmqLdnDnd4QF99PHZgJ5UbqR7OPhu1vJv4vaXJpsBa91XYY8E8z4Bnhj5JcI2n8X0zVpDx4Kd-wi4I1hXufCbSod_4oWkZHK-mAvH_j_WlYL2bcMX6i/s640/image.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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But the true holiday spirit comes when you get to that buttercream. The <i>candy cane</i> buttercream, mind you. <b> Yes</b>, real candy canes are crushed and added to a classic vanilla buttercream, upping the holiday ante. And who would have guessed the chocolate/peppermint combo was so downright <i>addicting</i>? Because neither Robbie or I could stop eating these little things. <br />
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Not to mention they're just too darn cute.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSVsh8tu3p1mqnjjaaClvfh-x53qc4XG7GvB63ZI7qKBrJ4AOuJQKRIAMjYjChlCiVlEqciXG-6acYLAZlBFr4MUtNbBKRCzJ1t0MHbV2m1tgg19d1PgtxPZvlx5u1YmUEekzp7Xl8oia/s1600/image_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUSVsh8tu3p1mqnjjaaClvfh-x53qc4XG7GvB63ZI7qKBrJ4AOuJQKRIAMjYjChlCiVlEqciXG-6acYLAZlBFr4MUtNbBKRCzJ1t0MHbV2m1tgg19d1PgtxPZvlx5u1YmUEekzp7Xl8oia/s640/image_3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well, I hope that everyone has a wondrous holiday and ends 2013 with a bang. I'll be spending the last couple of weeks of the year in Minnesota and Arizona with family and friends, so odds are this will be my last post. For the year, I mean.<br />
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I already have loads to catch you all up on, particularly with wedding planning, so I can't wait for the New Year to roll around.<br />
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Love you all, see you in 2014! <b>.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpn6uHbQmvMZoah_3KHWZ1zvQV29DGxVVYlSWpz5bilBn5bZZ3OXtFwf5LVOJRaVtqti40knyaFnsuQEZhaWFQ7grHyzp6uWjaabVddCTRFe235iRcyktHZmfoN8rsj8MzyOXkEA82Wk1/s1600/image_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPpn6uHbQmvMZoah_3KHWZ1zvQV29DGxVVYlSWpz5bilBn5bZZ3OXtFwf5LVOJRaVtqti40knyaFnsuQEZhaWFQ7grHyzp6uWjaabVddCTRFe235iRcyktHZmfoN8rsj8MzyOXkEA82Wk1/s640/image_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
From <a href="http://sallysbakingaddiction.com/" target="_blank">Sally's Baking Addiction</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Fudge Cookies:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 c. plus 1 tbsp. all purpose flour</div>
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1/4 c. unsweetened cocoa powder</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. baking powder</div>
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1/4 tsp. salt</div>
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8 oz. semisweet chocolate, chopped</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 eggs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5 tbsp. unsalted butter, at room temperature</div>
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3/4 c. packed light brown sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 c. sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 c. mini chocolate chips</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Peppermint Buttercream:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3/4 c. unsalted butter, at room temperature</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2-1/2 to 3 c. powdered sugar</div>
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2 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 to 2 tbsp. heavy whipping cream</div>
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1/2 c. candy cane dust (about 9 candy canes)</div>
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<u>Directions</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">For cookies, stir together <b>flour</b>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><b>cocoa</b> <b>powder</b>, <b>baking</b> <b>powder</b>, and <b>salt</b> in a medium bowl; set aside.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;">Melt <b>chocolate</b> in the microwave for about 1 minute, stir, and continue to melt in 30 second increments until fully melted and smooth; set aside. In a small bowl, whisk <b>eggs</b> and <b>vanilla</b> <b>extract</b>; set aside. With electric or stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat <b>butter</b> until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute). Beat in <b>brown</b> <b>sugar</b> and <b>sugar</b>, scraping down the sides, until mixture is granular. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;">Mix in egg mixture until incorporated. Add chocolate and beat until combined. Add dry ingredients on slow speed. Fold in the <b>mini</b> <b>chocolate</b> <b>chips</b> (do not overmix!). Chill dough for 30 minutes.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">Heat oven to 350°F. Scoop 1 Tablespoon of dough and roll into a slightly flattened ball. Place onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake 10 minutes or until cookies have just begun to set with the centers still appearing very soft (they will set as they cool). Move to wire rack to cool completely.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">Meanwhile, for buttercream, place <b>candy</b> <b>canes</b> in food processor and crush to a fine dust. </span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">In a medium bowl, beat butter for 1 minute. Add 2-1/2 cups <b>powdered</b> <b>sugar</b> and mix on low speed. Increase mixer speed to medium and add vanilla extract, salt, and 1 tablespoon <b>heavy</b> <b>whipping</b> <b>cream</b>. Beat for 1 minute. Stir in candy cane dust with a spatula and add heavy whipping cream as needed if buttercream requires loosening. </span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">Frost half of cooled cookies and top with remaining half of cookies to create sandwiches.</span></span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;">Yield: 2 dozen cookie sandwiches</span></span></div>
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<b><br /></b>
<a href="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="post signature" border="0" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com1Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-74846737936119074392013-12-15T21:18:00.001-06:002013-12-15T21:19:23.109-06:00Caramel Apple Streusel Pie<b>. </b>How has Thanksgiving already come and gone? I haven't even had a split second to catch up with everyone to see how their food-filled day went. And now it's almost Christmas...<br />
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But let's recap. My Thanksgiving was spent out in Naperville, Illinois, where my aunt and her family live. My parents [in Minnesota] and my brother [currently in Missouri for Army training] also made the trek to the Chicago suburb. We're all over the place, huh? But fortunately we were all able to be under one roof for one of <i>my </i>favorite holidays, if even for a short while.<br />
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But my Thanksgiving was off to a great start the moment I got to my aunt's house. <br />
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Right before our early dinner, my aunt asked me to grab the wine. Unbeknownst to me, I snagged a bag in the fridge and brought it out to the table. The next couple of seconds were a bit of a blur but I remember my mom asking me what kind it was. I casually shrugged and started reading the label. <br />
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'Jess.' 'Bridesmaid.' '<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/08/an-assortment-of-things.html" target="_blank">Melissa</a>.' <br />
<br />
Those are basically the <i>only</i> three words I remember reading. But as the utter confusion passed, I started piecing it all together. My best friend, and <a href="http://uw.theknot.com/view/4681022628309451/35475790" target="_blank">Maid of Honor</a>, was asking <b>me</b> to be in her wedding!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKzs6ckDaEAP69l9znGj31YPBrdD4ZZyfGng5gYbNbp4rgc2r8aAXe1DfjC7egC0KGGU6vM1leNwMZbDt4QzzejoJh827Zd6Jpg1X3eqzZhUj8-BHOW7-fF2CH5MPg90tzBFnc-AdoqEqi/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKzs6ckDaEAP69l9znGj31YPBrdD4ZZyfGng5gYbNbp4rgc2r8aAXe1DfjC7egC0KGGU6vM1leNwMZbDt4QzzejoJh827Zd6Jpg1X3eqzZhUj8-BHOW7-fF2CH5MPg90tzBFnc-AdoqEqi/s640/image.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Mel is a huge wine connoisseur, so her 'invitation' was <i>so</i> completely her. Absolutely perfect and I couldn't be <i>any</i> more honored to stand by my beautiful best friend on the biggest day of her life. <br />
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See? A <b><u style="font-style: italic;">great</u> </b>start to my Thanksgiving.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kVMuZF9C31KT4S_M7fB5ZpnT-4C4FcVYuWt5EUDgPhrkkypoOoHN9aIelmaCjdTsPoeQh1yC0y5YL4gVLSWUg-SYZkAyYhguSGFhwB_dEKqFJs5j8I9P96rKkEIxXD3S7WpHx0RuGilD/s1600/image_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8kVMuZF9C31KT4S_M7fB5ZpnT-4C4FcVYuWt5EUDgPhrkkypoOoHN9aIelmaCjdTsPoeQh1yC0y5YL4gVLSWUg-SYZkAyYhguSGFhwB_dEKqFJs5j8I9P96rKkEIxXD3S7WpHx0RuGilD/s640/image_1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Comically, the rest of the holiday went by rather quickly. We apparently got <i>right</i> down to business and the first round of 'Thanksgiving' was over in all of about 35 minutes. If that. But I guess that only alludes to the delicous-ness of the our meal: we were all heads down, forks to mouths. And <i>then</i> once we were done, we got back to catching up with everyone.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyHepeQfB0JzLKlhHcdg6AUUMss0lWrN3SaaTMK778Vp1E10dIFhAiUsEUviv5Q5grZvz2Xh8O8euuR6WK4ai_XoY4jA5T3dgP1QQSvQaInNBOc6gTfr-zbdVWgBP32KN_hQNzbgLqjmg/s1600/image_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyHepeQfB0JzLKlhHcdg6AUUMss0lWrN3SaaTMK778Vp1E10dIFhAiUsEUviv5Q5grZvz2Xh8O8euuR6WK4ai_XoY4jA5T3dgP1QQSvQaInNBOc6gTfr-zbdVWgBP32KN_hQNzbgLqjmg/s640/image_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The aftermath of Thanksgiving.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And of course, there was dessert. Made by me. Unfortunately dessert is the only contribution I will ever have to any dinner party. But I think everyone agreed, this recipe didn't let me down.<br />
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From the crunchy toffee crumble to the luscious caramelized-apple filling overflowing in a homemade crust, what's not to love? And the fact that we only had a modest sliver left by the end of the night signifies there wasn't much we <i>didn't</i> love about it. Plus my papa requested this pie for Christmas. Musta been good then, huh?!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgxjGO9oWkIX-d9Ki5LsNBY5deBDdIA6LQvqez_jpGJLULntyCr2QqFh1CfDEjGbfWJW2oghdMUX6uOuLb_D8gKXsnlRSQ2yGv8wgM1Qeg-5wP5kSBlogMz1PgyrSpEX86SQkQvBBbfFv/s1600/image_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbgxjGO9oWkIX-d9Ki5LsNBY5deBDdIA6LQvqez_jpGJLULntyCr2QqFh1CfDEjGbfWJW2oghdMUX6uOuLb_D8gKXsnlRSQ2yGv8wgM1Qeg-5wP5kSBlogMz1PgyrSpEX86SQkQvBBbfFv/s640/image_3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Well I hope everyone's enjoying the holidays, they always seem to fly by faster each year. Like I said, it's been busy our way, too, and hopefully I can get caught up sharing everything. But in the mean time...enjoy this pie! <br />
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Happy baking! <b>.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieesj12xwgqZDhZMmhtls0QJKEZx-l93DZGBrOl29eVncOjST5doi54Hs9V388VHU10T6cZ3iOhMZcTlVBVi9ixhNTa0MwHIRYcyx6skzFh_lOLSYEfAvdvZhoF7abHn4coxdCPmVoyGAC/s1600/image_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieesj12xwgqZDhZMmhtls0QJKEZx-l93DZGBrOl29eVncOjST5doi54Hs9V388VHU10T6cZ3iOhMZcTlVBVi9ixhNTa0MwHIRYcyx6skzFh_lOLSYEfAvdvZhoF7abHn4coxdCPmVoyGAC/s640/image_2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Adapted from <a href="http://www.handletheheat.com/2013/10/caramel-apple-streusel-pie.html" target="_blank">Handle the Heat</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Crust:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1-1/4 c. all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 tsp. salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. cold unsalted butter, cut into small chunks</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 tbsp. cold sour cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 to 3 tbsp. cold water</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Caramel Apple Filling</i>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tbsp. lemon juice</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. packed light brown sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 c. all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. cornstarch</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. ground cinnamon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 tsp. nutmeg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 tsp. salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 c. heavy whipping cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4 tbsp. butter</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Toffee Streusel Topping:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 c. all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 tbsp. sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tbsp. cold butter, cut into chunks</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Scant 1/3 c. toffee bits</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Directions</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">For the crust, in the bowl of a food processor, pulse the <b>flour</b>, <b>salt</b>, and <b>sugar</b> until combined. Add <b>butter</b> and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse meal, with larger chunks of butter remaining. Add <b>sour</b> <b>cream</b> and pulse to combine. Drizzle two tablespoons of <b>ice</b> <b>water</b> over mixture and pulse until it just comes together without being wet, sticky, or crumbly (if dough doesn’t hold together when pinched between your fingers, add another tablespoon of water and pulse).</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">Place the dough onto a large sheet of plastic wrap and shape into a disk. Chill in refrigerator until firm, at least 1 hour or up to 3 days. </span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">Let the dough sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling out on a lightly floured work surface (keep turning dough after every roll to ensure it doesn’t stick to the counter and is of even thickness). Roll out into a 1/8-inch thick 13-inch circle. Gently place the dough over a 9-inch pie pan and press into the tin. Trim the dough, leaving a 1-inch overhang. Crimp or decorate edges and pierce the bottom of the crust all over with a fork. Freeze for 30 minutes, or until very firm.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;">Heat oven to 375°F. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;">Remove the pie shell from the freezer and place a double sheet of foil over the shell, pressing the foil gently across the bottom and up the sides of the pie. Place two cups pie weights or dry beans over the parchment. Bake 20 minutes or until crust is dry and light in color. Carefully remove the parchment and weights and continue baking for another 12 minutes, or until just turning golden.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">Meanwhile, for the filling, combine <b>apples</b>, <b>lemon</b> <b>juice</b>, <b>light</b> <b>brown</b> <b>sugar</b>, sugar, flour, <b>cornstarch</b>, <b>cinnamon</b>, <b>nutmeg</b>, salt, <b>vanilla</b> <b>extract</b>, and <b>heavy</b> <b>whipping</b> <b>cream</b> in a large bowl. Melt butter in a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the apple mixture and cook 8 minutes or until the apples begin to soften. Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;">For the topping, in a medium bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut butter into the flour with a fork to form coarse crumbs. Stir in the <b>toffee</b> <b>bits</b> and sprinkle over apple mixture. Wrap the edges of the pie crust with a crust shield or foil. Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until crust is golden brown. Let cool before serving.</span></span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;">Yield: 8 servings</span></span></div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /><b> </b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com1Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-10024299922991062082013-11-24T09:51:00.000-06:002013-11-24T09:51:23.379-06:002013 Thanksgiving Recipe Round-Up!<b>. </b>You've probably seen your fair share of recipe round ups across the blogosphere as of late. But guess what? It's <i>that</i> time of year. So you can't blame us. <br />
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<div>
And obviously bloggers have your best interest at heart. We all know how hectic and absolutely crazy the holidays can be. So why not list out some of our biggest hit recipes for you to easily pick out goodies that will surely wow your family and friends? The holidays are <i style="font-weight: bold;">all</i> about the food, so you gotta bring your 'A' game.</div>
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So whether you're looking for some quick fixes or perhaps something a little more elaborate [a 'labor of love' piece is a <b>must</b>], here are several of my favorite recipes perfectly suited for the Thanksgiving bustle. </div>
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This will be my last post before the big Thursday feast, so I hope you all have a beautiful day with your loved ones. Eat lots and be thankful for everything around you! Love you all! <b>.</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><u><a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2011/05/bumbleberry-pie.html" target="_blank">Bumbleberry Pie</a></u></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is still my most fav pie to date!</i></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2011/10/best-ever-pumpkin-bars.htmlhttp://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2011/10/best-ever-pumpkin-bars.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Bars with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/10/secret-recipe-club-chocolate-chip-bread.html" target="_blank">Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Rum Cinnamon Sauce</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/09/apple-spice-layer-cake-with-caramel.html" target="_blank">Apple Spice Layer Cake with Caramel Mascarpone Frosting</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2011/11/improv-cooking-challenge-mini-pumpkin.html" target="_blank">Mini Pumpkin Pie Cheesecakes</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2012/11/shabby-apple-giveaway-winner-and-pillow.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Pillow Cookies</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2011/10/pumpkin-brown-butter-cupcakes.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Brown Butter Cupcakes</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2012/03/sunday-special-ham-and-cheese-breakfast.html" target="_blank">Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2012/10/spiced-apple-cheesecake-coffee-cake.html" target="_blank">Spiced Apple Cheesecake Coffee Cake</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/11/pumpkin-chocolate-chip-cake-cookies.html" target="_blank">Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cake Cookies</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2012/11/secret-recipe-club-apple-cinnamon.html" target="_blank">Apple Cinnamon Truffles</a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2012/10/apple-butter-monkey-bread-and.html" target="_blank">Apple Butter Monkey Bread</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0d3CFNFjq3j9a7Htt1qpNfW0oseGLEqCZnKoc07XChvoONZEZGAkZScgEsRfKN4AZpjDqmx2Aa_goTOJwle5gCEbBljKVNp1jhlRjntQGLJBWnR9B556tDtxl9t5syOxJELI0WlBtyDRp/s1600/photo-15-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0d3CFNFjq3j9a7Htt1qpNfW0oseGLEqCZnKoc07XChvoONZEZGAkZScgEsRfKN4AZpjDqmx2Aa_goTOJwle5gCEbBljKVNp1jhlRjntQGLJBWnR9B556tDtxl9t5syOxJELI0WlBtyDRp/s640/photo-15-1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2012/06/secret-recipe-club-bacon-egg-and-toast.html" target="_blank">Bacon, Egg, and Toast Cups</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com0Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-62442492152161078392013-11-18T00:00:00.000-06:002013-11-18T00:00:13.782-06:00Secret Recipe Club: Salted Caramel Butter Bars<b>. </b>I can <i>not</i> even believe that this is my last <a href="http://secretrecipeclub.com/" target="_blank">SRC</a> post for 2013. Where the <b>heck</b> did the year go?! How is Thanksgiving less than two weeks away and Christmas is right on it's heels? Whew, someone please slow time down.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PARnhXIFNBSD4rGHI39RAqMjcgfqaLHhTk5rWdrZvgjcrg7Tc3DFAwfjXAPJb_yP8fNS9LYBS84AIJsomO_n975gCKkoem9cFdyLp9waPSHt121BjH9efJBJq0dtvS2UdVrMCXSysWGm/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PARnhXIFNBSD4rGHI39RAqMjcgfqaLHhTk5rWdrZvgjcrg7Tc3DFAwfjXAPJb_yP8fNS9LYBS84AIJsomO_n975gCKkoem9cFdyLp9waPSHt121BjH9efJBJq0dtvS2UdVrMCXSysWGm/s640/photo+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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But luckily my last 2013 SRC assignment, <a href="http://makingmemorieswithyourkids.com/" target="_blank">Making Memories with Your Kids</a>, is chalk <i style="font-weight: bold;">full</i> of mouthwatering recipes to choose from, both savory and sweet. So the only problem I had this month was choosing which <u>one</u> recipe to feature in this post. Things like <a href="http://makingmemorieswithyourkids.com/2013/09/cinnamon-crumb-coffee-cake/" target="_blank">Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake</a>, <a href="http://makingmemorieswithyourkids.com/2012/07/apple-fritter-bread/" target="_blank">Apple Fritter Bread</a>, and <a href="http://makingmemorieswithyourkids.com/2013/08/peanut-butter-snickers-cheesecake-brownie-pie/" target="_blank">Peanut Butter Snickers Cheesecake Brownie Pie</a> were a-callin' my name. But I can vouch that each and every person who came within striking distance of these bars didn't have an ounce of complaint.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZY5gzLT-ftRGlbwCYzVjBdfwuC11PXGSqqMdK7WVQT47dKSTYkTQ6CiWJ_EfXi4_YwKNmIzBk21l5ipuRkNJE8yOhaEL_uQHvdIuLaHcOILL5c1FVzX0vurCQ3zCXb5Ee61PebsU8Mspc/s1600/image.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZY5gzLT-ftRGlbwCYzVjBdfwuC11PXGSqqMdK7WVQT47dKSTYkTQ6CiWJ_EfXi4_YwKNmIzBk21l5ipuRkNJE8yOhaEL_uQHvdIuLaHcOILL5c1FVzX0vurCQ3zCXb5Ee61PebsU8Mspc/s640/image.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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But really, what's there to say? With a combination of gooey, sticky salted caramel and buttery, [buttery,] crispy, shortbread/sugar cookie layers, you can't go wrong. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimmr49pG42EFfY5xwk9yBX70XMEmP-IMnbUKrER2Vz2gSJrBFseRE9dl66ZbA0Y7e5fHPblk26Ula4yAs6bxqjcA3Tn_P1_WlM4gB2kH3KCIVK4wjCdVz9khc63NO0fX_ysWVf7RqWLpg/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimmr49pG42EFfY5xwk9yBX70XMEmP-IMnbUKrER2Vz2gSJrBFseRE9dl66ZbA0Y7e5fHPblk26Ula4yAs6bxqjcA3Tn_P1_WlM4gB2kH3KCIVK4wjCdVz9khc63NO0fX_ysWVf7RqWLpg/s640/photo+4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I realize it all sounds quite simple but more often than not, keeping it simple gets you the most absolute best treats. And these Salted Caramel Shortbread Bars did not disappoint. Not. One. Bit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5B4MjlgLw7h9WUkii5Fk3aVw_QOCQ9emDcATYAHCkjDlMxHJl6BikxuVYBxxkreQ-u8rq8tU8yadw7NYk5wRX1QAqibaktYreMbfkQAoF-CDbk65siTy-Uja36qMFPbanS8LQHPE5GDu/s1600/image_1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil5B4MjlgLw7h9WUkii5Fk3aVw_QOCQ9emDcATYAHCkjDlMxHJl6BikxuVYBxxkreQ-u8rq8tU8yadw7NYk5wRX1QAqibaktYreMbfkQAoF-CDbk65siTy-Uja36qMFPbanS8LQHPE5GDu/s640/image_1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I can't rave enough about the buttery goodness of the shortbread crust and crumble topping. Seriously, delish. And the layer of sweet, gooey caramel in between makes it all come together. And like I said before, the addition of the sea salt adds a lovely touch making this a unique baked goodie. No one can resist the sweet and salty combo! Plus, these babies <i style="font-weight: bold;">scream</i> Christmas/holiday cookie bar, so I couldn't have whipped these up at a better time!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkNugJHSESpcZhd7Q6Ri1BIcP4kc0txam16Yn88p6gfrVvFxnr7Vstv_MRZDICk2J3yX7qogpDP3LmmH84MavglFm5N4sCxryhyphenhyphen6wJvXSp_ILXb_3KivKvJWJAwhdzl3Gcb6lNgdqx5LR9/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkNugJHSESpcZhd7Q6Ri1BIcP4kc0txam16Yn88p6gfrVvFxnr7Vstv_MRZDICk2J3yX7qogpDP3LmmH84MavglFm5N4sCxryhyphenhyphen6wJvXSp_ILXb_3KivKvJWJAwhdzl3Gcb6lNgdqx5LR9/s640/photo+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anywho, this sure was a fabulous way to end my 2013 SRC run. So thank you, <a href="http://makingmemorieswithyourkids.com/about/" target="_blank">Erin</a>, for an inspiring, easy recipe that I couldn't wait to share! </div>
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Happy baking, everyone! <b>.</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My Notes:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><i>The original recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of sea salt. I stopped with half because I personally don't like <b>too</b> much salt, so I went the cautious route. If you want more of a salty kick, stick to the full tablespoon.</i></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwScYFFWDP33MRGDLaS3OqMkk2u5280QB-zXlABIScrfFiEwc8J2UpKz89A9J5T-dAZ9ik-yqJIDM6iwmBwDtP_ux0l1wcxMm-GYASo2w8LhNb-yxMJw6Nr7_1i4iztgtDCoZ2XkAUtlV/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwScYFFWDP33MRGDLaS3OqMkk2u5280QB-zXlABIScrfFiEwc8J2UpKz89A9J5T-dAZ9ik-yqJIDM6iwmBwDtP_ux0l1wcxMm-GYASo2w8LhNb-yxMJw6Nr7_1i4iztgtDCoZ2XkAUtlV/s640/photo+2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Adapted from Making Memories with Your Kids</div>
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<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Shortbread Crust/Topping:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 c. butter, at room temperature</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 c. sugar</div>
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1-1/2 c. powdered sugar</div>
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2 tbsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4 c. all purpose flour</div>
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<i>Salted Caramel Filling:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 (14 oz.) bag caramels, unwrapped</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/3 c heavy whipping cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
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1/2 tbsp. sea salt</div>
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<u>Directions</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ol>
<li>Heat oven to 325°F. Grease a 13x9-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.</li>
<li>For the crust, in a large bowl beat together <b>butter</b> and <b>sugar</b> on medium speed until creamy. Add <b>powdered</b> <b>sugar</b> and <b>vanilla</b> <b>extract</b> and on low speed beat until smooth. Slowly add <b>flour</b> and beat until combined.</li>
<li>Spread half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan and pat down with fingers to make an even layer.</li>
<li>Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly browned. Set aside to cool while making the filling.</li>
<li>For the filling, place <b>caramels</b> into a medium saucepan with <b>heavy</b> <b>whipping</b> <b>cream</b> and vanilla extract over medium heat. Stir mixture until smooth and caramels are completely melted. Pour caramel over the cooled crust. Sprinkle with <b>sea</b> <b>salt</b>. Crumble the remaining dough over the caramel. </li>
<li>Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until filling is bubbly and top layer is golden brown. Let bars cool completely before cutting to serve.</li>
</ol>
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Yield: 2 dozen bars</div>
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<!-- end InLinkz script -->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com12Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-22674003089634884882013-11-11T20:57:00.004-06:002013-11-11T20:57:54.096-06:00A Recipe Contest/Giveaway and Flakey Cran-Apple Hand Pies<b>. </b>I'll be honest. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPVdz05oC3-L_evYsOYLJJ2SusyqI2mwHBREBfXOnR5RmV2Ufvf-01KiOSf37-zsIDBVb2kHN77yd6VptisRXGmx2sdNQhLOAhseywgB_HsFMWum4b9enVel0c-JnI8KC835cPgK5DH6N/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPVdz05oC3-L_evYsOYLJJ2SusyqI2mwHBREBfXOnR5RmV2Ufvf-01KiOSf37-zsIDBVb2kHN77yd6VptisRXGmx2sdNQhLOAhseywgB_HsFMWum4b9enVel0c-JnI8KC835cPgK5DH6N/s640/photo+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Couldn't be <i>any</i> more excited about this giveaway.<br />
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I've done a number of Lucky Leaf giveaways that include a package of goodies for myself and in turn, I bake up a recipe using the Lucky Leaf products and basically write a review. So whether I like their <a href="http://luckyleaf.com/Products/#pie-filling" target="_blank">pie fillings</a> or not, you guys are getting the honest truth. Fortunately, I've fallen head over heels for their pie fillings and will [most likely] never use another brand again. They got me hooked.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaKuTwwHc6zJxi5_N89ivKmpcDRsKi6DBgRjrQBD-LXLIJn03Oomj-kzTYxv7U6McrKod3rYGOkFMTQlhEstR_yEX10xUfDFB-A17rAgtgQQRAML6QFfBFWHVJM4wYBaj8somZZGkw1uej/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaKuTwwHc6zJxi5_N89ivKmpcDRsKi6DBgRjrQBD-LXLIJn03Oomj-kzTYxv7U6McrKod3rYGOkFMTQlhEstR_yEX10xUfDFB-A17rAgtgQQRAML6QFfBFWHVJM4wYBaj8somZZGkw1uej/s640/photo+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well for this giveaway, one of <b>you</b> is getting my most favorite package to date but <b><i>also</i></b> have a chance to enter the <a href="http://luckyleaf.com/Lucky13/" target="_blank">Lucky 13 Recipe Contest</a>! <br />
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Without getting into too many of the details [who needs those?], the Lucky 13 Recipe Contest basically entails using [at least] one can of Lucky Leaf's pie fillings, the entire recipe must only take one hour, and...that's it! Just come up with something creative and fun using their scrumptious product and YOU could win the grand prize of of $2,500! I'd say that's a hefty payment for a pan of bars. Or whatever it is you decide to make.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgF8y38tW2ZLzmBLHn8jGUqmucTPwE6gQu7hMq4tgM-RJs83jaaSv42nkKmrL37oNYqBpdQj45Cllb4BgiTq6kKJPB2D0oHBwOiNVO1vwX7RCShek9BVOaGE4l4xLnJ2-blC6KP4TOEQ9/s1600/image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNgF8y38tW2ZLzmBLHn8jGUqmucTPwE6gQu7hMq4tgM-RJs83jaaSv42nkKmrL37oNYqBpdQj45Cllb4BgiTq6kKJPB2D0oHBwOiNVO1vwX7RCShek9BVOaGE4l4xLnJ2-blC6KP4TOEQ9/s640/image.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Unfortunately, I didn't read closely enough about the one hour limit, so this here Flakey CranApple Hand Pie recipe won't be making it into the contest as planned. Dang it. Because I'm <i>really</i> excited about these. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_Hpq63cK_i7mBmWa_O60sRWGDyX7Izoro4dvhsxhioD3618gH9saYI4qwdb1CUYHHtNmRykXPWvZ3h62oNFRtzHQ1i1hyphenhyphenjafTUNGpiPPRLWZp2RY88Vf3mZk7srgzZwhR-MOdOoKss2x/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1_Hpq63cK_i7mBmWa_O60sRWGDyX7Izoro4dvhsxhioD3618gH9saYI4qwdb1CUYHHtNmRykXPWvZ3h62oNFRtzHQ1i1hyphenhyphenjafTUNGpiPPRLWZp2RY88Vf3mZk7srgzZwhR-MOdOoKss2x/s640/photo+5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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One could always use a store-brought pie crust to cut the prep time. But to substitute for the homemade, flakey crust recipe I have here just wouldn't be the same. The shining star [in my humble opinion] couldn't be replaced by Pillsbury. Sowwy.<br />
<br />
I realize this comparison is probably a baking sin and <a href="http://tutti-dolci.com/about/" target="_blank">Laura</a> from <a href="http://tutti-dolci.com/" target="_blank">Tutti Dolci</a> [source of the <a href="http://tutti-dolci.com/2013/10/apple-graham-hand-pies/" target="_blank">original recipe</a>] would cringe if she read this, but for <i>relatable</i> purposes I'm going to say it. The crust and filling combination of these hand pies strongly resembles a gourmet Toaster Strudel. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAiMZcMTD986OKsFmB0PvjkHCW8qTtEky6xBwdtzC6ZgkezQZ2Ge1Kzax63FVaeIflyiva-LYuINEzGZ1rnSgV497EyDmmGQJlXipGb9Dryz_aubplA_d0vVa4Xr8V04rgn2AMRjFoxMr/s1600/image_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmAiMZcMTD986OKsFmB0PvjkHCW8qTtEky6xBwdtzC6ZgkezQZ2Ge1Kzax63FVaeIflyiva-LYuINEzGZ1rnSgV497EyDmmGQJlXipGb9Dryz_aubplA_d0vVa4Xr8V04rgn2AMRjFoxMr/s640/image_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Gah, I'm sorry. I said it. But who hasn't had one of those stuffed pastries?! And dang it, they're <i>good</i>!<br />
<br />
But these hand pies are even <b>better</b>. Not even on the same level actually. But the flaky, peel-away-layers reminded me of those breakfast treats [minus the icing]. So I had to say it.<br />
<br />
And now that I've spurred your creativity, get in that kitchen and bake up some goodies with Lucky Leaf pie fillings! Oh, but you don't have any pie filling, you say? <b>Well then</b>! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8y22jb7Opx0ZySXe176r04h3BabGoo6Q8nwMh2YAw5ssWVzrK62K-zVxcJ8Q4X6JRVFE06IiHrPETU1NAeWk7EDghDES28bpT8uB49GngbBlJEmqQbpKYzNP_zqMElV3w4lzsQB9TIxG9/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8y22jb7Opx0ZySXe176r04h3BabGoo6Q8nwMh2YAw5ssWVzrK62K-zVxcJ8Q4X6JRVFE06IiHrPETU1NAeWk7EDghDES28bpT8uB49GngbBlJEmqQbpKYzNP_zqMElV3w4lzsQB9TIxG9/s640/photo+1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Enter a comment below telling me what you would bake up for the contest [if you <i>were</i> to enter] and I'll choose a random winner that will receive a Lucky Leaf package containing a can of Lucky Leaf pie filling, a ceramic pie bird, a recipe card, and and two pie slice boxes with forks. <br />
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Uh, awesome!<br />
<br />
So get thinkin' and commentin', you have until December 2nd, to enter <i style="font-weight: bold;">my</i> contest as well as the Lucky 13 Recipe Contest.<br />
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Happy baking! <b>.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My Notes:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><i>These hand pies are best the day they are made, but just keep them tightly covered when you're not snackin' on them and they'll keep for a good number of days.</i></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrpiiGDmJ8-mRQ11glvpcsL7BJS0cpf4rQkVgI4BTMQIKpc1s1HmxUA0yURbfYgTzIn2nuGarvQVltjtl86Hryns5Ma8dN8zpdizVi_bal0feCUB-0OQILjXd5Gbifc7wQ_KkmxUjx35-/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdrpiiGDmJ8-mRQ11glvpcsL7BJS0cpf4rQkVgI4BTMQIKpc1s1HmxUA0yURbfYgTzIn2nuGarvQVltjtl86Hryns5Ma8dN8zpdizVi_bal0feCUB-0OQILjXd5Gbifc7wQ_KkmxUjx35-/s640/photo+3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Adapted from Tutti Dolci</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Flakey Pie Crust:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 c. cold unsalted butter, divided</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. buttermilk</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 c. flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. whole wheat flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tbsp. sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. ground cinnamon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Large pinch of nutmeg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 to 4 tbsp. cold water</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<i>Filling</i>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 (21 oz.) can pie filling (your choice)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 large egg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tbsp. water</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Turbinado sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Directions</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li>In a small bowl, grate 1/2 cup of <b>butter</b>. Cut the remaining 1/2 cup of butter into cubes and place in small bowl as well [keeping separated]. Place in freezer for 15 minutes to chill as well as buttermilk.</li>
<li>In a large bowl, whisk together <b>flour</b>, <b>whole</b> <b>wheat</b> <b>flour</b>, <b>sugar</b>, <b>cinnamon</b>, <b>nutmeg</b>, and <b>salt</b>. Sprinkle cubed chilled butter over flour mixture and cut in butter using a pastry blender or fingertips until the biggest pieces are the pea-sized. Fold in grated butter. Drizzle <b>buttermilk</b> over mixture and using a spatula, gather dough until it forms clumps. Add tablespoons of <b>water</b>, one at a time, and gently knead dough to form a ball. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and flatten slightly to form a disc. Refrigerate dough for 1 hour or up to 2 days.</li>
<li>Heat oven to 400°F. Grease two baking sheets with nonstick cooking spray or line with parchment paper. Whisk <b>egg</b> <b>yolk</b> and water in a small bowl to create an egg wash; set aside.</li>
<li>On a lightly floured surface, roll out half of the dough to 1/8-inch thickness, rotating dough after each stroke. </li>
<li>Use a <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/fluted-pastry-wheel/" target="_blank">pastry wheel</a> [or cookie cutter] to cut out 2-inch squares. Place half of the squares on the prepare baking sheet and brush with egg wash. Place one scant teaspoon of <b>pie</b> <b>filling</b> onto crusts. Cut two slices into the remaining crusts and use to top the pies. Seal edges with a fork. Brush tops with egg wash and sprinkle with <b>turbinado</b> <b>sugar</b>. Repeat with scraps and remaining half of dough.</li>
<li>Bake 16 minutes or until pies are puffed and golden. Transfer to wire rack to cool. Repeat steps with scraps and remaining half of dough.</li>
</ol>
<div>
Yield: 2 dozen hand pies</div>
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com16Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3970499130547661585.post-35501837249965291432013-11-04T08:00:00.000-06:002013-11-04T08:00:10.135-06:00Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cake Cookies<b>. </b>It has been <i>quite </i>some time since I've published posts within days of each other. The Fall/holiday baking season must be getting to me. It's too hard to resist.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div>
But first things first. I did have a <a href="http://lifessimplemeasures.blogspot.com/2013/10/musselmans-giveaway-autumn-apple-butter.html" target="_blank">Musselman's Giveaway</a> a week or so back and it's about time I announced the winner of the <a href="http://musselmans.com/products/apple-butter/" target="_blank">Apple Butter</a>, decorative bread carriers, and a Fall <a href="http://musselmans.com/" target="_blank">Musselman's </a>recipe card! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhomBA2UKBw0XIN5Ik2H54kg2YtiqBY-0Ah-la7M-JGYPQSSLoedUpNpjFlOoCsC1mHjEkp9ePUSumAX6paB6aFRBENfdagwJYTomke8biNeqskIpXhWMXNsYps3rFItF-p0nUTxSG4G6/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhomBA2UKBw0XIN5Ik2H54kg2YtiqBY-0Ah-la7M-JGYPQSSLoedUpNpjFlOoCsC1mHjEkp9ePUSumAX6paB6aFRBENfdagwJYTomke8biNeqskIpXhWMXNsYps3rFItF-p0nUTxSG4G6/s640/photo+4.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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And the lucky winner is... Drum roll pleaseeeee....</div>
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<b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">WHITNEY!!</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
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Congralations girlie, and now all you must do is wait for your Musselman package to arrive! Thanks again to the readers who participated, I absolutely <b>love</b> these giveaways and it's such a joy to share them with you all. Until next round!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbddeEpyNKMMwh1W1zm-FjxWVUIIc37OQeR0_vG0ZJ9FGtab3-3hth7UkBQmv7yCSUCNx5rlnjwBxh4RJgmpnAsI2pP_U49lTLnPR-sdWf9-WmtqLcHfBiLrsUOx5uCfzw3ZCPUsOyJpMS/s1600/photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbddeEpyNKMMwh1W1zm-FjxWVUIIc37OQeR0_vG0ZJ9FGtab3-3hth7UkBQmv7yCSUCNx5rlnjwBxh4RJgmpnAsI2pP_U49lTLnPR-sdWf9-WmtqLcHfBiLrsUOx5uCfzw3ZCPUsOyJpMS/s640/photo+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
But hold on, don't leave. Because we're about to get into these cookies. Ones that I couldn't <i>wait</i> to post. Because a combination of soft, fluffy pumpkin cake cookies studded with mini chocolate chips, and topped with a classic buttery glaze, is just <i>too</i> dang good <i>not</i> to share. I can't keep all of these addicting goodies to myself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUr3HJaQfqSUo745mhWTESj_pCyh6gfXidVrTH2KoHEDn4nIf4HzzG68SODLOMP7eC1v8o55tqUqjhmSPIZR2o6jJHmUhR_YQJAtl3TXMU45_qwLFWXwh7JKPGtjZPoeGLpdAHjqNfreg/s1600/photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyUr3HJaQfqSUo745mhWTESj_pCyh6gfXidVrTH2KoHEDn4nIf4HzzG68SODLOMP7eC1v8o55tqUqjhmSPIZR2o6jJHmUhR_YQJAtl3TXMU45_qwLFWXwh7JKPGtjZPoeGLpdAHjqNfreg/s640/photo+4.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
But what I was <i>truly</i> excited about is the <b>source</b> of this recipe. I nabbed the original <a href="http://lifeasemmasmom.blogspot.com/2013/10/old-fashioned-soft-pumpkin-cookies.html" target="_blank">Old Fashioned Soft Pumpkin Cookies</a> from Ms. Jamie over at <a href="http://lifeasemmasmom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Life as {Emma's} Mom</a>. But Jamie isn't just some random blogger who I happened to stumble upon. Nope, we actually went to the same high school in good ol' Woodbury [but she's a couple of years younger than I am]. And although our paths never crossed too often, the bloggosphere [and social media] has seemingly brought us together. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyFIsSiwrGLAYbw3iZU_mM6VFVAR7K0344iQB-MKPQpuFwbi6jgPFb7lahiXLBlC4gR4EXkqhtoiNkVjnfDD2_kGbabHaF3O_aSLQNoq-l6_WRwprKLcaDWapJ1zqkjz5taPu6nYL3k3W/s1600/photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyFIsSiwrGLAYbw3iZU_mM6VFVAR7K0344iQB-MKPQpuFwbi6jgPFb7lahiXLBlC4gR4EXkqhtoiNkVjnfDD2_kGbabHaF3O_aSLQNoq-l6_WRwprKLcaDWapJ1zqkjz5taPu6nYL3k3W/s640/photo+2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
As her blog name may indicate, Jamie is a loving mother to her beautiful daughter, Emma. And even though I don't know her precious mini me personally, it has been a <i>joy</i> to watch Emma grow up via [Instagram] pictures and videos. And now that Jamie has her blog, I've also been incorporated into another passion of hers: cooking.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYQBSVF9luDN2CdXxW5fz90UZnh36IfTL1JOpcrrXO_XUXqZxMDfYzlyQ29pNII-Uwca49ODyWbxPEU793lQPhHluW3FsyowgfD9y3EyzZkk-BY_v3f7ogVJqbzsjylHB9SxWWsdhHWze/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPYQBSVF9luDN2CdXxW5fz90UZnh36IfTL1JOpcrrXO_XUXqZxMDfYzlyQ29pNII-Uwca49ODyWbxPEU793lQPhHluW3FsyowgfD9y3EyzZkk-BY_v3f7ogVJqbzsjylHB9SxWWsdhHWze/s640/photo+5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
I can't tell you how many times I've come across the mouthwatering pictures of the dinners <b><i>and</i></b> treats Jamie makes for her daughter and fiance. First, it makes me wish I lived closer so I could randomly stop by. And two, I'm hoping Robbie never wisens up and realizes what he's missing out on. I may need some cooking lessons...</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But the moment I glanced at these pumpkin cookies, they were 'pinned' and moved to first on the list for my next baking day. And the second these babies were out of the oven [and glazed as fast as humanely possible], all of my beliefs about Jamie's cooking/baking were confirmed. I'm hooked.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYaL6iL8_wGXWiHSDapH6lcUp9aFqK4ekQS-BzHm12mwy-eDOsrk2sWT-bxDCwyVHjklJ3iVgFbEs6COF5Gd-JFaFA5wAsMcgcuOVlB0XTYlCnzNnSL-D-IpKK5UkWAiUW8Vy00KmqQmzu/s1600/photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYaL6iL8_wGXWiHSDapH6lcUp9aFqK4ekQS-BzHm12mwy-eDOsrk2sWT-bxDCwyVHjklJ3iVgFbEs6COF5Gd-JFaFA5wAsMcgcuOVlB0XTYlCnzNnSL-D-IpKK5UkWAiUW8Vy00KmqQmzu/s640/photo+5.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
These cakey cookies are absolute heaven. So soft and pumpkin flavorful that you'll be coming back for <i>way </i>too many. If there even is such a thing. A perfect fix for those Fall-spices cravings we all get!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy baking! <b>.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>My Notes:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><i>Jamie's original recipe didn't include mini chocolate chips. So if you're not feeling those, leave them out. Trust me, you'll still get a delectable cooke you won't be able to get enough of.</i></li>
<li><i>This may test your patience, but be sure to let the cookies cool completely before glazing. Otherwise the glaze will drip right off!</i></li>
<li><i>For festive purposes, Jamie also added some food coloring to her glaze to get that orange pumpkin feel. I'm boring and left the coloring out, but have fun with it!</i></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFKTPPTNfNkA4ANmkUfnlASBTtEJ-uJQL68KYwRqLQjBw9R09JyQBwAQWddteTqiMbbhim3sm97fDkDKUvP0QyJ9HSOw62CpkxsDkPCHIncN6UGWIS6JHudhScRMa8r8qV5D6IbtCQhbS1/s1600/photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFKTPPTNfNkA4ANmkUfnlASBTtEJ-uJQL68KYwRqLQjBw9R09JyQBwAQWddteTqiMbbhim3sm97fDkDKUvP0QyJ9HSOw62CpkxsDkPCHIncN6UGWIS6JHudhScRMa8r8qV5D6IbtCQhbS1/s640/photo+3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Adapted from Life As {Emma's} Mom</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Ingredients</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Soft Pumpkin Cookies:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2-1/2 c. all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. baking soda</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. baking powder</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. ground cinnamon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 tsp. salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1-1/2 c. sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/2 c. butter, softened</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 large egg</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 c. pumpkin puree</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1-1/4 c. mini semisweet chocolate chips</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Classic Glaze:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 c. powdered sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3 tbsp. milk</div>
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1 tbsp butter, melted</div>
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1 tsp. vanilla extract</div>
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<u>Directions</u>:</div>
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<ol>
<li>Heat oven to 350°F. Grease 2 baking sheets with non-stick cooking spray; set aside.</li>
<li> Combine <b>flour</b>, <b>baking</b> <b>soda</b>, <b>baking</b> <b>powder</b>, <b>cinnamon</b>, <b>nutmeg</b>, and <b>salt</b>, in a medium bowl. </li>
<li>In a large bowl, beat together <b>butter</b> and <b>sugar</b> until combined (about 1 to 2 minutes). Beat in <b>egg</b>, <b>pumpkin</b> <b>puree</b>, and <b>vanilla</b> <b>extract</b>. until thoroughly combined. Gradually add in flour mixture just before thoroughly combined. Gently fold in <b>mini</b> <b>chocolate</b> <b>chips</b>.</li>
<li>Drop batter by rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheets. Bake 15 to 18 minutes or until edges are firm. Remove from oven to wire rack to cool completely.</li>
<li>For glaze, in a medium bowl, beat together <b>powdered</b> <b>sugar</b>, <b>milk</b>, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Glaze cooled cookies as desired.</li>
</ol>
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Yield: 30 cookies<br />
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<img alt="post signature" class="centered" src="http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l148/kha02a/jess_sig.jpg" /> </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14871642157710269382noreply@blogger.com2Chicago, IL, USA41.8781136 -87.62979819999998241.4995241 -88.275245199999986 42.256703099999996 -86.984351199999978