Tag Archive | holiday

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Hearts

Feb12

As seen on WKTV NEWSChannel 2 Friday, February 14, 2014

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Hearts

Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownie Hearts

If your busy schedule has left you little time for planning a special treat for your sweetheart, you still can make a decadent dessert your valentine will love. Perfect for those who are short on time, these homemade confections will go straight to your loved one’s heart.

By embellishing packaged brownie mix with cream cheese, red food color, and a few pantry staples, it’s easy to whip up a moist and colorful chocolate treat swirled with the yummy taste of cheesecake. To make them extra special, set on decorative doilies and arrange on pretty platters like these Anchor Hocking Isabella Platters.

So go ahead and give it a whirl. After all, rich confections made fresh from your kitchen will guarantee you a sweet place in your valentine’s heart forever. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Love chocolate? Here are a few more recipes with the decadent taste of chocolate: Molten Chocolate Cakes, Chocolate Covered Strawberries, Hot Cocoa, and Mini Brownie Trifles

RED VELVET CHEESECAKE BROWNIE HEARTS

1 (18- to -21 ounce) package fudge brownie mix
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup brewed coffee
1 1/2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon red food color
1 teaspoon white vinegar
2 eggs
1 (8-ounce) package regular or reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1 (3-ounce) package regular or reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1 egg white
3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil, letting ends extend beyond edges on 2 sides. Coat foil with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine brownie mix, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, coffee, 1 1/2 tablespoons food color, vinegar, and eggs. Stir with a wooden spoon until mixed; spread in prepared pan.

In a medium bowl, combine cream cheeses, egg white, and confectioners’ sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Remove 1/2 of the batter to a small bowl; stir the remaining 1 teaspoon food color into this batter. Drop plain batter by tablespoons randomly onto brownie batter. Drop red batter in the same manner. Using a butter knife, swirl through the batters to create a marbled effect. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool completely. Refrigerate 30 minutes. Remove brownies by lifting foil ends; place on a cutting board. Remove foil; use a cookie cutter to cut heart shapes. Makes 16 large heart-shaped brownies.

This recipe and a recipe for Filet Mignon with Mushroom Sauce can be found here.

Thanks to Anchor Hocking for providing serveware

Molten Chocolate Cakes

Feb7

As seen on WKTV NEWSChannel 2 Friday, February 7, 2014

Molten Chocolate Cakes

Molten Chocolate Cakes

A miniature chocolate cake for two that oozes with melted goodness is a luscious way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your sweetie. And while it might seem like these lavish, restaurant-style cakes require a lot of time and effort to prepare, they actually can be made quickly and easily.

They also are an excellent choice to share with family and friends, and the batter can be made a day in advance. Just divide into prepared custard cups, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge. When it’s time to bake the cakes, just remove the plastic wrap, place on a baking sheet, and bake as directed increasing the bake time by about 2 minutes.

A sprinkling of confectioners’ sugar and a dollop of whipped cream adds the final flourish. With an over-the-top dessert like this, it’s easy to create a memorable Valentine’s Day beginning in your own kitchen.

Here’s another easy recipe for your Valentine: Chocolate Covered Strawberries

MOLTEN CHOCOLATE CAKES

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
4 ounces high-quality unsweetened chocolate, chopped
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter
1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, plus more for garnish (optional)
1/2 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3 eggs
3 egg yolks
2 tablespoons coffee liqueur, such as Kahlua
Whipped cream (optional)
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Butter 6 (6-ounce) custard cups. Place on a baking sheet. In a large, microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips, unsweetened chocolate, and butter. Microwave on HIGH until butter has melted, about 2 minutes. Whisk until smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Stir until combined. Add eggs, egg yolks, and coffee liqueur; whisk until well blended. Divide batter among prepared custard cups. Bake until cakes are firm around the edges but are soft in the centers, 13 to 14 minutes. Let stand 1 minute. Run a thin knife around the edges; invert onto dessert plates. Top each cake with a sprinkling of confectioners’ sugar and/or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired. Makes 12 servings, 1/2 cake each.

Come say hello!

February 8, 2014 at 11:00 ~ Presentation and Book Signing ~ Sherrill Free Library, 543 Sherrill Rd., Sherrill, NY 13461

February 8, 2014 at 2:00 ~ Meet and Greet ~ Representing the Observer Dispatch’s Entree Magazine ~ Turning Stone Resort and Casino Home Show, 5218 Patrick Rd., Verona, NY 13478

Easy Snickerdoodles

Dec4

Featured on WKTV NEWSChannel 2

Easy Snickerdoodles

Easy Snickerdoodles

Love the taste of Snickerdoodles but don’t have a lot of time to prepare them? Then put a package of yellow cake mix to good use by combining it with a few pantry staples for a shortcut version of a classic cookie recipe.

A terrific way to spend a snowy afternoon, making Christmas cookies is a fun family activity that will create fond memories to last a lifetime. And this recipe is perfect for little hands as they enjoy shaping the dough and then rolling it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

After the cookies are baked and cooled, arrange them on decorative platters like these Anchor Hocking Isabella Platters for a fun display of fresh-baked cookies that everyone will enjoy.

Whether you make them for Santa or share with friends who come to call, homemade Snickerdoodles will bring comfort and joy to those near and dear.

Here are more Easy Christmas Recipes from The Harried Housewife’s RECIPE BOX.

EASY SNICKERDOODLES

3 tablespoons sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 (16.5 ounce) package plain yellow cake mix
1/4 cup flour
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, flour, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Stir with a wooden spoon until mixed. Shape dough into 1 1/4-inch balls. Roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets. Bake until centers are almost set, 8 to 10 minutes. Cool 2 minutes before removing to a wire rack. Makes about 3 1/2 dozen cookies.

Thanks to Anchor Hocking for providing serveware

Easy Christmas Recipes from The Harried Housewife’s RECIPE BOX:

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Microwave Applesauce

Nov14

As seen on WKTV NEWSChannel 2 Harried Housewife Microwave Applesauce

Microwave Applesauce

Microwave Applesauce

Homemade applesauce is a time-honored treat that appeals to both children and adults. And when it can be prepared in a short amount of time, it’s even better.

By using a microwave oven instead of a stovetop, a dish of slightly sweetened and spiced applesauce can be ready to serve in no time. A delicious choice to grace the table on Thanksgiving Day, this recipe makes good use of the microwave and allows the stovetop to be freed up for other recipes.

So when you would like to savor the yummy goodness of classic applesauce in a hurry, put your microwave oven to use. After all, modern-day convenience makes enjoying an old-fashioned favorite even better.

MICROWAVE APPLESAUCE

6 medium cooking apples, peeled, cored, and coarsely chopped
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons sugar, plus more to taste (optional)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, divided
1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine apples, water, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Cover loosely with plastic wrap; microwave on HIGH 10 minutes. Add lemon juice; stir well. Microwave on HIGH, uncovered, until apples are tender, about 2 minutes. Mash with a potato masher to desired texture. Stir in the remaining 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir in sugar, 1 teaspoon at a time to taste, if desired. Serve warm or chilled. Makes about 2 3/4 cups.

Blue Citrus Cocktails

Aug27

As seen on WKTV NEWSChannel 2 Harried Housewife Blue Citrus Cocktails

Blue Citrus Cocktails

Blue Citrus Cocktails

Savor the essence of a tropical island by sipping on a vibrant drink brimming with refreshing citrus flavor.

Quick to prepare and perfect for Labor Day celebrations or any occasion, this swanky drink looks even more dazzling in this Infinity Pitcher from Anchor Hocking.

When it comes to squeezing out every drop of the fleeting days of summer, this colorful drink makes it easy.

Cheers!

BLUE CITRUS COCKTAILS

4 cups lemonade, chilled
2 cups blue curacao
3/4 cup vodka
3/4 cup cold water
Juice of 1 medium lemon
Ice cubes
Tropical flowers (optional)
In a large pitcher, combine lemonade, blue curacao, vodka, water, and lemon juice; stir well. Place ice cubes in glasses; pour lemonade mixture over ice cubes. Garnish with tropical flowers, if desired. Makes 10 servings

Thanks to Anchor Hocking for providing drinkware

Banana Pancakes

May7

As seen on WKTV NEWSChannel 2 Harried Housewife Banana Pancakes

Banana Pancakes

Banana Pancakes

Treat Mom to a homemade breakfast including mouthwatering banana pancakes to celebrate her special day. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, these fresh-from-the-griddle pancakes will be a sweet beginning to Mother’s Day.

Stack pancakes on restaurant-style plates likes these Oneida Chefs Table Plates add a few slices of fresh banana, and drizzle with pure maple syrup. Whether it’s with extended family for brunch or just Mom, Dad, and the kids, these tender pancakes will honor Mom for all she does.

To my mom and to all moms, Happy Mother’s Day.

BANANA PANCAKES

2 cups flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
2 eggs
6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) butter, melted
3 ripe medium bananas, mashed
Vegetable oil, for griddle (optional)
Sliced bananas (optional)
Pure maple syrup
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, butter, and bananas. Add to flour mixture; whisk just until combined.

Heat griddle to 375 degrees or set a heavy skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush griddle or skillet with vegetable oil, if necessary. Working in batches, ladle 1/4 cup batter onto griddle. Cook pancakes until tops are covered with bubbles and edges are slightly dry, 1 to 2 minutes. Turn pancakes over; cook until bottoms are golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Garnish with sliced bananas, if desired. Serve with maple syrup. Makes 6 servings.

Thanks to Oneida for providing dinnerware

Strawberry Sauce

Apr23

As seen on WKTV NEWSChannel 2 Harried Housewife Strawberry Sauce

Strawberry Sauce

Strawberry Sauce

Celebrate the season by getting together with family and friends for a springtime brunch filled with a variety of mouthwatering dishes.

An array of foods from sweet to savory is the ideal combination for a successful brunch, and homemade strawberry sauce complements both impeccably. Whether it’s to top off pancakes, waffles, angel food cake, or pound cake, this luscious sauce is bursting with juicy goodness.

One of the best things about setting up a brunch is using serveware in fun and creative ways. For example, a pretty glass creamer such as this Anchor Hocking Presence Creamer doubles as the perfect pitcher to hold the strawberry sauce.

Whether it’s for Mother’s Day or any occasion, this recipe may easily be doubled and is great for making ahead. Simply prepare sauce, cool completely, then cover and store in the fridge up to three days in advance. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

One thing is certain: Ruby-red strawberry sauce is a delightful addition to any warm-weather gathering. Enjoy!

STRAWBERRY SAUCE

3 cups sliced strawberries
1/4 cup sugar
3 tablespoons water
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons lemon juice
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups strawberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until strawberries are tender, about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Meanwhile, mash the remaining strawberries. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and lemon juice. Add mashed strawberries and cornstarch mixture to cooked strawberry mixture. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Makes 1 1/2 cups.

Thanks to Anchor Hocking for providing serveware

Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Mar26

As seen on WKTV NEWSChannel 2 Friday, April 18, 2014

Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

If you are planning on coloring eggs for Easter, why not cook a few extra and make deviled eggs. Quick and easy to prepare, deviled eggs are a delightful addition to any springtime menu.

While there are many ways to prepare them, this recipe makes good use of Ranch salad dressing. By combining the dressing with the yolk mixture, it’s easy to add zesty flavor to these classic snacks.

The recipe may easily be doubled for a crowd, and the deviled eggs may be prepared up to 12 hours in advance. For the ultimate in ease, place halves of eggs in a pretty dish likes this Anchor Hocking Deviled Egg Tray and either spoon or pipe egg yolk mixture into halves. Loosely cover and store in the fridge until ready to serve. Sprinkle with extra bacon bits and garnish with sliced fresh chives just before serving.

Whether they are for an Easter celebration or any occasion, this recipe makes it easy to add a tasty twist to a time-honored favorite. From my family to yours, Happy Easter.

(For a fun Easter treat both children and adults will enjoy, try the recipe for Spring Nests.)

BACON RANCH DEVILED EGGS

6 hard-cooked eggs, peeled
2 1/2 tablespoons regular or light mayonnaise
2 1/2 tablespoons regular or light Ranch salad dressing
2 tablespoons real bacon bits, plus more for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Sliced fresh chives (optional)
Slice eggs in half lengthwise. Remove egg yolks from whites. Place yolks in a medium bowl. Mash with a fork. Add mayonnaise, dressing, 2 tablespoons bacon bits, salt, and pepper. Mix well; spoon or pipe mixture into halves of eggs. Sprinkle with bacon bits and garnish with chives, if desired. Makes 12 deviled eggs.

Thanks to Anchor Hocking for providing serveware

Green Beer

Mar12
Green Beer

Green Beer

It won’t be long before lads and lasses will be raising their glasses in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. A long-held tradition on this special day is to indulge in a refreshing glass of green beer with family and friends.

As pretty as the Emerald Isle itself, this colorful drink will bring the luck-o’-the-Irish to those who imbibe. And sipping this vibrant drink from a classic mug like this one from Anchor Hocking is even better. Just stash the mugs in the freezer for at least an hour before serving for the ultimate in frosty goodness.

So go ahead and enjoy a bit of magic on this special day. After all, St. Patrick’s Day is a day when all are Irish—and this is always cause for celebration. Cheers!

(For a refreshing, nonalcoholic drink featuring the 40 shades of green, try this recipe for Limesicle Shakes. Enjoy!)

An Irish Toast

I drink to myself and one other
And may that one other be he
Who drinks to himself and one other
And may that one other be me!

Author unknown

GREEN BEER
(Adjust the amount of green food color drops to the size of mugs used.)

1 or 2 drops green food color
8 ounces beer
Place 1 or 2 drops food color in a frosty, 8-ounce glass; fill with beer. Sláinte!

Thanks to Anchor Hocking for providing drinkware

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Feb12
Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

If you would like to whip up a sweet treat for your Valentine but are short on time, then this quick to prepare recipe is for you.

By simply microwaving chocolate chips, stirring in a touch of shortening and then dipping strawberries into the melted goodness, a decadent dessert with a touch of elegance is ready to serve.

Make it extra special by pouring a couple glasses of champagne to share with your beloved. Classy flutes like these Oneida Compose Flutes are perfect for romantic occasions and make it easy to celebrate any time of the year.

So when it comes to wishing your sweetheart a Happy Valentine’s Day, it’s as simple as a glass of champagne and handmade chocolate covered strawberries. Cheers!

CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES

16 large strawberries
1 cup semisweet chocolate morsels
1 teaspoon vegetable shortening
Line a baking sheet with waxed paper. Rinse strawberries; pat dry. Place chocolate morsels in a microwave-safe glass measuring cup; microwave until melted. Stir in shortening. Dip strawberries in melted chocolate; place on prepared baking sheet. Let stand until set, 10 to 15 minutes. Makes 4 servings.

Thanks to Oneida for providing drinkware and serveware