It feels like we've been under construction for a year. Actually, I think it has been a year. We started rehabbing our basement last November. And from there, we've gone room by room. 2 months ago (or longer now) our garage was torn down and a new garage floor was laid. And nothing since then. But if you go by my Dad's motto - there are three things you can get with construction: fast, good, and cheap. However, you can only get two of those - never 3. We got good and cheap.
So I've been told that tomorrow the framers are going to start building the new garage (and addition on top). Tomorrow is a hard start date - or Wednesday. Not sure.
The contractor is a friend of ours and because he is so good and is helping us out so much; the least I can do is make him cookies. About 3 or 4 years ago I made a batch for our softball team (that I was on with our contractor). He raved about those cookies; so I made a batch that is similar to that batch from 3 or 4 years ago. A slice n bake cookie with coconut in it.
Husband rated them 5 out of 5 - so hopefully they're a hit.
317 Mom's Coconut Cookies:
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
2 cups flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/8 tsp salt
1 cup coconut
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars. Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture. Stir in coconut. Shape into two 3 1/2 in. rolls; wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm.
Unwrap and cut into 1/8 in slices. (although seriously - cut this into an 1/8 inch - that's pretty thin and it's hard to make it that thin). Place 2 in apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 425 for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.
Monday, November 13, 2017
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Spreading a little cheer
I'm trying to stay true to my goal of blogging about the latest recipe on the same day I made it. However, it's been 8 days since I last baked this batch, but it's been on my to-do list to post about this recipe since the day I made it ; ) But I at least got this post in before I make another batch.
Not sure if you read a little post I wrote last spring about leaving my old school and not getting to interview for new jobs; it maybe came across as a little bitter. But it's true what they say, it all works out in the end. I managed to get the superintendent to bend the policy for me so that I could interview for jobs. I'm at a new school this year, I'm loving where I am. I have great co-workers and a great schedule. As far as my old building; they have a new principal and so many people were cut last spring; that it is a very different staff. We (the kids and I) brought this latest batch when we went to visit last week, because rumors are that they could use a little morale booster.
#316 Cinnamon Brownies
Am I the only person who has to actually look up on YouTube how to make a batch of coffee? This recipe called for 2 tbs of strong brewed coffee. I should've just stopped at McDonald's or something but it was a Thursday night and I just wanted to get the brownies in the oven.
I made these because neither Mike or I like coffee and it seemed very much a "teacher's brownie". But as usual, I guessed wrong and Mike liked these brownies too. Alas, I gave them away again.
Not sure if you read a little post I wrote last spring about leaving my old school and not getting to interview for new jobs; it maybe came across as a little bitter. But it's true what they say, it all works out in the end. I managed to get the superintendent to bend the policy for me so that I could interview for jobs. I'm at a new school this year, I'm loving where I am. I have great co-workers and a great schedule. As far as my old building; they have a new principal and so many people were cut last spring; that it is a very different staff. We (the kids and I) brought this latest batch when we went to visit last week, because rumors are that they could use a little morale booster.
#316 Cinnamon Brownies
Am I the only person who has to actually look up on YouTube how to make a batch of coffee? This recipe called for 2 tbs of strong brewed coffee. I should've just stopped at McDonald's or something but it was a Thursday night and I just wanted to get the brownies in the oven.
I made these because neither Mike or I like coffee and it seemed very much a "teacher's brownie". But as usual, I guessed wrong and Mike liked these brownies too. Alas, I gave them away again.
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
3x harder than it needed to be
Every night at dinner my 2 year old daughter has the same routine. She asks everyone at the table (and sometimes the dog too) "What's your best day?" - meaning what's the best part of your day? Picture perfect scene of family harmony, right? Except today my answer was: "I'm not sure. It was a hard day (mainly because of said 2 year old). I think the best part of my day was this morning when I was still laying in bed".
That pretty much sums up the day. It was one of those days when everything was 3 times harder than it needed to be. And even after breakfast, (when the 2 year old was especially demanding and the damn seed from the avocado wouldn't come out and something was up with that avocado in general). I told myself - just because a few bad things happen, doesn't mean the whole day was ruined; we could turn this around. NO! Some days it's just a better idea to scrap the plans for the entire day, maybe go to a park and then spend the rest of the day in jammies watching tv. Hindsight is very wise. That's not what we did. And if I still thought this day could turn around (at 8:15 at night) - the universe decided to rub it in - I just sneezed into my shirt sleeve after putting a chocolate covered raisin in my mouth - so now I have that chocolate stain to get out of my shirt.
So two batches today - because again - everything harder than it needed to be. The goal today - to make 1 batch of cookies to bring up to the cabin with some friends. Seemed simple enough. My to-do list wasn't overwhelming. The kids and I would do playgroup in the morning and then usually they're pretty chill.
So I went to start the batch of Easy Pumpkin Spice Cookies - like I had planned for when I went grocery shopping - except I didn't buy the necessary yellow cake mix. I thought I had bought it last time I was at the store because it was on sale. But now I remember I was going to, then decided it wasn't worth it. So ... no yellow cake mix.
No worries though - I could make this other batch (Chewy Maple Cookies) that I had planned to make earlier and then didn't. Except - I only had 1 egg because I forgot to tell husband to buy eggs at Costco while I did the regular grocery shopping at Cub. There's a chance here that our grocery shopping routines are too complicated.
But it's okay - this recipe only called for 1 egg! YES!
Except - it turned out that this batch is the first batch I've ever thrown away. I'm not sure how important it is to cream the butter and sugars together before adding in the other ingredients - because I sort of got distracted and did that. I scooped out the egg that I mistakenly threw in and creamed the butter and sugar and then threw in the egg - but this batch did not turn out. Or maybe it's because I used Aunt Jemima syrup instead of "pure maple syrup" that the recipe called for. Anyway, this is what happened:
These cookies did go well and I wish I could say that was the turn around for the day, but it wasn't. The two year old woke up; crying, because isn't that how all people wake up from a 2 hour nap. It's how the 2 year old wakes up about 50% of the time.
So there it is: batches 314 and 315.
I think this day calls for a long soak in the whirlpool!
That pretty much sums up the day. It was one of those days when everything was 3 times harder than it needed to be. And even after breakfast, (when the 2 year old was especially demanding and the damn seed from the avocado wouldn't come out and something was up with that avocado in general). I told myself - just because a few bad things happen, doesn't mean the whole day was ruined; we could turn this around. NO! Some days it's just a better idea to scrap the plans for the entire day, maybe go to a park and then spend the rest of the day in jammies watching tv. Hindsight is very wise. That's not what we did. And if I still thought this day could turn around (at 8:15 at night) - the universe decided to rub it in - I just sneezed into my shirt sleeve after putting a chocolate covered raisin in my mouth - so now I have that chocolate stain to get out of my shirt.
So two batches today - because again - everything harder than it needed to be. The goal today - to make 1 batch of cookies to bring up to the cabin with some friends. Seemed simple enough. My to-do list wasn't overwhelming. The kids and I would do playgroup in the morning and then usually they're pretty chill.
So I went to start the batch of Easy Pumpkin Spice Cookies - like I had planned for when I went grocery shopping - except I didn't buy the necessary yellow cake mix. I thought I had bought it last time I was at the store because it was on sale. But now I remember I was going to, then decided it wasn't worth it. So ... no yellow cake mix.
No worries though - I could make this other batch (Chewy Maple Cookies) that I had planned to make earlier and then didn't. Except - I only had 1 egg because I forgot to tell husband to buy eggs at Costco while I did the regular grocery shopping at Cub. There's a chance here that our grocery shopping routines are too complicated.
But it's okay - this recipe only called for 1 egg! YES!
Except - it turned out that this batch is the first batch I've ever thrown away. I'm not sure how important it is to cream the butter and sugars together before adding in the other ingredients - because I sort of got distracted and did that. I scooped out the egg that I mistakenly threw in and creamed the butter and sugar and then threw in the egg - but this batch did not turn out. Or maybe it's because I used Aunt Jemima syrup instead of "pure maple syrup" that the recipe called for. Anyway, this is what happened:
These were supposed to be chewy, and not looking like that - but instead they spread too thin and were not chewy.
So all right, what can I make that doesn't require eggs? Not too many recipes in that book with no eggs - a few - but then I was missing other ingredients. So back to the Easy Pumpkin Spice cookie. Yes, that means a trip to the grocery store.
At this point I was a little annoyed, not too crabby. The kids had spent the last hour playing nicely and doing art. Yeah, that's when all the moods kicked in - and the 2 year old got hard. We'll just sum it up with "defiance, button pushing, arguing, demanding, and ignoring (ignoring mommy that is).
But I was determined. Made these during nap time:
So there it is: batches 314 and 315.
I think this day calls for a long soak in the whirlpool!
Monday, October 9, 2017
Shit happened!
The second half is underway. I've said it before, but this time I mean it. After I bake a batch; I'm going to blog about it that day. Hopefully this results in shorter and more interesting posts. Before I didn't blog right after because I wanted to blog after whatever event the cookie was for. But if this is truly just about my life - then that doesn't matter - whatever is happening that day will be the post.
Or at least I'm gonna try.
So I didn't plan this batch. I didn't wake up this morning and say - I'm going to work a full day at work, come home and cook dinner and then try to make a batch of cookies while my two oldest are fighting and the baby is a little bit fussy (and I mean a little fussy for her - since her fussy is most babies' great days). My baby girl is seriously the best baby.
Anyways, cookies were not on my mind today AT ALL. Then I got to work. And while I was pulling into a parking spot, a car must've jumped off the side of the road where it was parked because I brushed up against it. DOH! Shit (and a few other choice words).
Did I drive away and park somewhere else? No. I didn't. The angel side of me won out and I left a note. Then as the day went on and I kept looking outside to see if the car was gone; I determined it must belong to a co-worker. Super Shit!
Yep, it belongs to a co-worker. A co-worker that I work with everyday I'm there- I spend a 1/2 hour in her classroom everyday. Could this get worse? Oh, right - I'm new to this building and people are probably still forming their impressions of me. This is where I put the emoji of my head in my hands.
So this batch - #313 Apple Peanut Butter Cookies
My apology for the shit that happened - and the inconvenience this is going to cause. Having to go get estimates. Having to have the couple of marks touched up with paint. Just annoyances.
And of course, this batch turned out to be amazing. 5 smiley faces from both Mike and me. It's been a long time since a batch received 5 smiley faces from both of us. It never fails, a batch that I am giving all away - an all star. Quote from Mike "You can scratch my car if I get a batch like this"
This peeler is fun to watch. And the kids love "the snake" that comes off of it.
Here's the recipe and here's for hoping this just all goes away:
1/2 cup shortening 1 1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup chunky peanut butter 1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup sugar 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 egg 1/2 cup grated peeled apple
1/2 tsp vanilla
In a large bowl, cream the shortening, peanut butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine the dry ingredients; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in apple.
Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 in apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 375 for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 5 minutes before removing to wire racks.
Or at least I'm gonna try.
So I didn't plan this batch. I didn't wake up this morning and say - I'm going to work a full day at work, come home and cook dinner and then try to make a batch of cookies while my two oldest are fighting and the baby is a little bit fussy (and I mean a little fussy for her - since her fussy is most babies' great days). My baby girl is seriously the best baby.
Anyways, cookies were not on my mind today AT ALL. Then I got to work. And while I was pulling into a parking spot, a car must've jumped off the side of the road where it was parked because I brushed up against it. DOH! Shit (and a few other choice words).
Did I drive away and park somewhere else? No. I didn't. The angel side of me won out and I left a note. Then as the day went on and I kept looking outside to see if the car was gone; I determined it must belong to a co-worker. Super Shit!
Yep, it belongs to a co-worker. A co-worker that I work with everyday I'm there- I spend a 1/2 hour in her classroom everyday. Could this get worse? Oh, right - I'm new to this building and people are probably still forming their impressions of me. This is where I put the emoji of my head in my hands.
So this batch - #313 Apple Peanut Butter Cookies
My apology for the shit that happened - and the inconvenience this is going to cause. Having to go get estimates. Having to have the couple of marks touched up with paint. Just annoyances.
And of course, this batch turned out to be amazing. 5 smiley faces from both Mike and me. It's been a long time since a batch received 5 smiley faces from both of us. It never fails, a batch that I am giving all away - an all star. Quote from Mike "You can scratch my car if I get a batch like this"
Here's the recipe and here's for hoping this just all goes away:
1/2 cup shortening 1 1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup chunky peanut butter 1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup sugar 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 egg 1/2 cup grated peeled apple
1/2 tsp vanilla
In a large bowl, cream the shortening, peanut butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine the dry ingredients; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in apple.
Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 in apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 375 for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 5 minutes before removing to wire racks.
Wednesday, October 4, 2017
Halfway!
"Woah, we're half way there
Woah, livin' on a prayer"
Woah, livin' on a prayer"
Be honest, you sang those sentences. So 6 years ago on October 20th (I'm ahead of schedule); I started this project. So 6 years ago:
No kids,
lived in a 1 1/2 story house in NE Mpls
We were remodeling
I was working 3 jobs: 1st year of teaching, coaching the high school tennis team, and cleaning on the weekends.
Today:
3 kids
living in a two-story in Roseville
We're still remodeling (just a different house)
I'm only working 1 job - teaching. But I still clean - but all the time now and I don't get paid for it.
Today I baked batch #312 - so technically I am over halfway done as the book has only 623 recipes (not 624).
To mark this momentous occasion; we needed to do something special with this batch.
So we split this batch and brought it to our local firefighters and police. We also put together a few care packages to have in our car to hand out to homeless that we see on the street. It's our way to "be the good" - and this week - we really need good.
So a quick summary of the last 9 batches:
#312 Icebox Honey Cookies
#311 Soft Raisin Cookies
#310 Brownie Crackles
I made these for my Doctor. She is sooo good to us. Always replies to any email I send. Answers all the questions I have at any and every appt. Is completely understanding when all 3 kids are at the appts and are spinning in her chair or as she steps over them on the floor as they are playing ipad. I think I owe her a few batches.
#309 Sand Dollar Cookies
This batch and #311 were for my new students at my new school. Practicing using describing words. Who cares if I'm bribing my students to vote me teacher of the year.
#308 Fudge Filled Sandies
I can't even tell you what I made these for. Although I know I brought some to school. When you're the new kid; you gotta do something to break the ice, get to know people and get them to like you : )
#307 Macadamia Chip Cookies
Little did I know that this is my Mom's favorite type of cookie. And my sister-in-law deemed this the best one out of the book so far (of course she's only had a fraction of the 312 I have made). Good thing I randomly brought this one to the cabin for Labor Day.
#306 Peanut Butter Pinwheels
Yum. If you'be been following this blog - I have now posted about 312 cookies. If you're still with me - I think you need to just buy the book. Taste of Home: Cookies. Yep - find this recipe (p. 121) and go for it.
#305 Rhubarb Oat Bars
I made this 2 months ago. I don't know what for. I think it did make it to the cabin though. That's probably what it was for. I got a little behind with the blogging. This won't be the last time in the next 6 years though I'll say this - but I'll try to do better.
And finally #304 Jelly topped Sugar Cookies
You got me.
A sugar cookie filled with a jelly filling.
Monday, July 31, 2017
Approaching half way
I blogged about a month ago and I've made 5 batches since then - it's a real motivator to bake as I approach the half way mark. You would think after baking more than 300 batches, I would've figured out a better way to capture this journey; still not loving the blog. And I forget to instagram it most of the time. So I'll just add pictures of the fun things we were doing around these cookies.
#299 Chocolate Chunk Cookies
The cookie was amazing - 5 smiley faces.
6 squares (1 oz each) white chocolate, divided
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 pkg (11 1/2 oz) semisweet chocolate chunks
In a microwave, melt three squares of white chocolate at 70% power for 1 minute; stir. Microwave at additional 10-20 second intervals; stirring until smooth; cool.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time beating well after each addition. Beat in melted chocolate and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in chocolate chunks.
Drop by tablespoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 1 minute before removing to cooling rack.
In a microwave, melt remaining white chocolate. Drizzle over cookies.
#300 Strawberry Cookies
These were an interesting cookie - a "shortcut creation" cookie - a quick bake cookie needed for a neighborhood pool party.
Easiest cookie ever - dump a package of strawberry cake mix in with 1 beaten egg. Fold in an 8 oz container of cool whip. Roll the balls of dough in powdered sugar and bake at 350 on a greased baking sheet for 10 minutes or so.
#301
What starts out as:
A watermelon cookie. And I so wish I got a picture of the final product - but alas, I always forget.
This cookie was fun to make and a novelty, but lacked on taste.
#302 Strawberry Banana Squares
A summer full of bbq's. We've been living off hamburgers and hot dogs this summer. Really taking advantage of our yard, play set and hammock chairs. Have I posted a picture of our playset?
The hammocks are connected to a tunnel bridge that leads to the top of our castle (our shed).
#303 Butterscotch Pecan Slices
A simple slice and bake cookie for our Family Reunion.
And since I don't have a picture of that - how about one of this cutie.
#299 Chocolate Chunk Cookies
 |
| These two cute adorable girls, down visiting Grandma in Indiana. |
6 squares (1 oz each) white chocolate, divided
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 pkg (11 1/2 oz) semisweet chocolate chunks
In a microwave, melt three squares of white chocolate at 70% power for 1 minute; stir. Microwave at additional 10-20 second intervals; stirring until smooth; cool.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time beating well after each addition. Beat in melted chocolate and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in chocolate chunks.
Drop by tablespoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool for 1 minute before removing to cooling rack.
In a microwave, melt remaining white chocolate. Drizzle over cookies.
#300 Strawberry Cookies
These were an interesting cookie - a "shortcut creation" cookie - a quick bake cookie needed for a neighborhood pool party.
Easiest cookie ever - dump a package of strawberry cake mix in with 1 beaten egg. Fold in an 8 oz container of cool whip. Roll the balls of dough in powdered sugar and bake at 350 on a greased baking sheet for 10 minutes or so.
#301
What starts out as:
This cookie was fun to make and a novelty, but lacked on taste.
#302 Strawberry Banana Squares
A summer full of bbq's. We've been living off hamburgers and hot dogs this summer. Really taking advantage of our yard, play set and hammock chairs. Have I posted a picture of our playset?
#303 Butterscotch Pecan Slices
A simple slice and bake cookie for our Family Reunion.
And since I don't have a picture of that - how about one of this cutie.
Friday, June 30, 2017
Summer adventures
Yay Summer! I think. Except we've had one month of summer (I count summer starting as of Memorial Day) and we've been in urgent care, the ER or a doctor's appointment a dozen times. First it was the middle monkey (my kids being my monkeys) - throwing up in the middle of the night - but only at night. She was fine during the day. Turns out - strep throat - which she so kindly then shared with me. Then our littlest monkey (only 2 months old) went to urgent care for vomiting and a little fever. If you're 2 months old then - a fever means go to the ER. Never found out what was wrong with her - even in the follow up doctor visits. She seems to be fine now. Onto the oldest child who tells us that he has blood drops when he pees. That's just a little concerning. No blood drops - just a little ointment to clear things up. That very same night the middle monkey starts throwing up again in the middle of the night - just at night. No reoccurence of strep (we brought her in) - no idea what's wrong with her - she seems fine. Until a few days later when she says it hurts when she pees. ARRRGGH! Not officially a UTI, but something going on - doctors don't know what.
On top of that - my own regularly scheduled appointments - post surgery and to check up on my Crohn's condition.
Here's hoping to seeing no doctor in the month of July!
With all that - I still managed to bake a few batches of cookies (2 batches from the last post and these 3 batches).
#296 Chocolate Pudding Sandwiches
This is that cookie that I didn't quite have the right ingredient. I waited until I found the right ingredient and made these for a summer BBQ.
On the way to our cabin, I stopped at Target quickly to grab ingredients for this cookie and to return diapers and buy the same diapers in order to get the $20 Target gift card. I had bought the diapers a day before the deal started. Totally worth the stop, right? 3 kids, a dog in the car and an infant that needs to eat. I told the kids we'll be real quick. Real quick in Target - I know, those words don't go together. I just needed diapers, chocolate pudding mix, cool whip, marshmallows and chocolate wafers. That should be easy.
Except - where would you look for chocolate wafers? I looked in the cookie aisle. All I could find was those "Nilla" wafers; not chocolate. I decided to go with those. But then, ultimately decided I couldn't go through with compromising the recipe. So no cookie for the cabin that weekend.
The following week, while at Cub, I happened to notice chocolate wafers while I was in the baking aisle - because that makes sense. I still don't know if the Target in Forest Lake has the wafers or not - perhaps in the baking aisle.
I was told more than once - these are kind of like an oreo cookie. Just mix chocolate pudding mix with 1 1/2 cup milk for 2 minutes (let stand for 2 more minutes). Fold in 8 oz of cool whip and 1 cup mini marshmallows. Spread pudding mix on the bottom of a chocolate wafer (you'll need 2 pkgs of said wafer) and top with another wafer. Freeze for 3 hours (and keep in freezer unless you're serving them).
#297 Chocolaty Double Crunchers
This may be one of my favorite cookies that I've made so far - for sure in the top 5.
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 cup flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup quick cooking oats
1 cup crushed cornflakes
1/2 cup coconut
Filling
6 oz of cream cheese (softened)
1 1/2 cup confectioner's sugar
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars. Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture and ix well. Add oats, cornflakes and coconut.
Roll into 1 inch balls. Place 2 in apart on greased baking sheets. Flatten with a glass dipped lightly in flour. Bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.
For filling, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add chocolate; mix well. Spread about 1 tb on half of the cookies and top each with another cookie. Store in refrigerator
Note: You can pile on the filling - there's a lot.
#298 Hazelnut chocolate cookies
If all the doctor's visits weren't enough this month - we have no bathroom on 2nd floor - until yesterday. I now have my dream spa bathroom. And despite my two oldest monkeys screaming at each other in the next room; and my two month old fussing next to me - every muscle in my body is totally relaxed. That's what a whirlpool/air tub and luxurious shower will do for you.
A friend of ours (a contractor) has been helping us out - getting us bids and finding tile guys for us and all sorts of other construction guys (there's a lot of different construction jobs that go into an addition). He's been looking at our plans - and just overall a huge help. So this batch was for him.
And you learn something new everyday. I learned how to peel and toast hazelnuts. Boil water and then put 3 tbs of baking soda in it. Put hazelnuts in the water and boil for 3-4 minutes. Then place in ice cold water. The peels almost fall right off.
On top of that - my own regularly scheduled appointments - post surgery and to check up on my Crohn's condition.
Here's hoping to seeing no doctor in the month of July!
With all that - I still managed to bake a few batches of cookies (2 batches from the last post and these 3 batches).
#296 Chocolate Pudding Sandwiches
This is that cookie that I didn't quite have the right ingredient. I waited until I found the right ingredient and made these for a summer BBQ.
On the way to our cabin, I stopped at Target quickly to grab ingredients for this cookie and to return diapers and buy the same diapers in order to get the $20 Target gift card. I had bought the diapers a day before the deal started. Totally worth the stop, right? 3 kids, a dog in the car and an infant that needs to eat. I told the kids we'll be real quick. Real quick in Target - I know, those words don't go together. I just needed diapers, chocolate pudding mix, cool whip, marshmallows and chocolate wafers. That should be easy.
Except - where would you look for chocolate wafers? I looked in the cookie aisle. All I could find was those "Nilla" wafers; not chocolate. I decided to go with those. But then, ultimately decided I couldn't go through with compromising the recipe. So no cookie for the cabin that weekend.
The following week, while at Cub, I happened to notice chocolate wafers while I was in the baking aisle - because that makes sense. I still don't know if the Target in Forest Lake has the wafers or not - perhaps in the baking aisle.
I was told more than once - these are kind of like an oreo cookie. Just mix chocolate pudding mix with 1 1/2 cup milk for 2 minutes (let stand for 2 more minutes). Fold in 8 oz of cool whip and 1 cup mini marshmallows. Spread pudding mix on the bottom of a chocolate wafer (you'll need 2 pkgs of said wafer) and top with another wafer. Freeze for 3 hours (and keep in freezer unless you're serving them).
#297 Chocolaty Double Crunchers
This may be one of my favorite cookies that I've made so far - for sure in the top 5.
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 cup flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup quick cooking oats
1 cup crushed cornflakes
1/2 cup coconut
Filling
6 oz of cream cheese (softened)
1 1/2 cup confectioner's sugar
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars. Beat in egg and vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture and ix well. Add oats, cornflakes and coconut.
Roll into 1 inch balls. Place 2 in apart on greased baking sheets. Flatten with a glass dipped lightly in flour. Bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.
For filling, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add chocolate; mix well. Spread about 1 tb on half of the cookies and top each with another cookie. Store in refrigerator
Note: You can pile on the filling - there's a lot.
#298 Hazelnut chocolate cookies
If all the doctor's visits weren't enough this month - we have no bathroom on 2nd floor - until yesterday. I now have my dream spa bathroom. And despite my two oldest monkeys screaming at each other in the next room; and my two month old fussing next to me - every muscle in my body is totally relaxed. That's what a whirlpool/air tub and luxurious shower will do for you.
A friend of ours (a contractor) has been helping us out - getting us bids and finding tile guys for us and all sorts of other construction guys (there's a lot of different construction jobs that go into an addition). He's been looking at our plans - and just overall a huge help. So this batch was for him.
And you learn something new everyday. I learned how to peel and toast hazelnuts. Boil water and then put 3 tbs of baking soda in it. Put hazelnuts in the water and boil for 3-4 minutes. Then place in ice cold water. The peels almost fall right off.
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
Do I have to make it up, or not?
I was going to make a cookie up at the cabin, but then I was missing one ingredient - kind of a key ingredient - but I could substitute it. Ultimately I decided not to make the cookie because it wouldn't be completely true to the recipe. But now I feel like I missed out on a cookie baking opportunity and that I'm "one behind". So do I make a cookie just for the heck of it to "make it up", or am I neurotic and insane? Maybe don't answer that.
#292 Vanilla Wafer Cookie
It's summer! And I'm on maternity leave! And that means my kids are done with preschool and daycare : (.
We've been going to our daycare for three years (which isn't that long, but it's most of my kids' lives). It's time to say farewell and switch to a nanny - because three kids in daycare/preschool is just too expensive. Do you think daycare would mind if I stole one of their providers as a nanny?
We made this cookie to say farewell.
I don't have a picture of this cookie, but check out this most beautiful sight. Mother of three isn't too bad. I am actually able to get all 3 sleeping at once (well, only twice) Usually the oldest plays ipad and the other two sleep. Hey, I'll take it!
#293 Peach Oat Cookie
A healthy cookie! If there is such a thing. This one is almost like a granola bar. My sixteen year old nephew ate them by a handful. Not sure if that means they're really good or not. Teenage boys are known for eating anything and everything, right?
1/3 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup each: flour, whole wheat flour, and oat flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 1/2 cups quick cooking oats
1/2 cup oat bran
1 1/2 cup drained canned sliced peaches in extra light syrup, chopped
1 cup raisins
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flours, baking powder and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in oats and oat bran just until combined. Stir in peaches and raisins.
Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto baking sheets coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350 for 9-13 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire rack to cool.
#294 Simple Raspberry Almond Bars
My last end of the year teacher party with my current school. I'm looking forward to meeting a new staff and hopefully develop some good relationships. Cookies should help with that.
#295 Almost a Candy Bar
I've been saving this recipe as it's one Mike specifically asked me not to give away to others. So I saved it for father's day so Mike gets it all to himself (well, almost - I made him share with his kids and wife - and my Dad got a couple).
1 tube (16 1/2 oz) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough
4 nutty s'mores trail mix bars (1.23 oz each), chopped
1 package (11 oz) butterscotch chips
2 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 1/2 cup mini pretzels
1 pkg (10 oz) peanut butter chips
3/4 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup butter
1 pkg (11.5 oz) milk chocolate chips
Let dough stand at room temp for 5-10 minutes to soften. In a large bowl, combine dough and trail mix bars. Press into an ungreased 13x9in pan. Bake, uncovered at 350 for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Sprinkle with butterscotch chips and marshmallows. Bake 3-4 minutes longer or until marshmallows begin to brown. Sprinkle with walnuts; arrange pretzels over the top. In a small saucepan, melt peanut butter chips, corn syrup and butter; spoon over bars.
In a microwave, melt chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Drizzle chocolate over bars. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm before cutting.
#292 Vanilla Wafer Cookie
It's summer! And I'm on maternity leave! And that means my kids are done with preschool and daycare : (.
We've been going to our daycare for three years (which isn't that long, but it's most of my kids' lives). It's time to say farewell and switch to a nanny - because three kids in daycare/preschool is just too expensive. Do you think daycare would mind if I stole one of their providers as a nanny?
We made this cookie to say farewell.
I don't have a picture of this cookie, but check out this most beautiful sight. Mother of three isn't too bad. I am actually able to get all 3 sleeping at once (well, only twice) Usually the oldest plays ipad and the other two sleep. Hey, I'll take it!
#293 Peach Oat Cookie
A healthy cookie! If there is such a thing. This one is almost like a granola bar. My sixteen year old nephew ate them by a handful. Not sure if that means they're really good or not. Teenage boys are known for eating anything and everything, right?
1/3 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup each: flour, whole wheat flour, and oat flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
2 1/2 cups quick cooking oats
1/2 cup oat bran
1 1/2 cup drained canned sliced peaches in extra light syrup, chopped
1 cup raisins
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flours, baking powder and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in oats and oat bran just until combined. Stir in peaches and raisins.
Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto baking sheets coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350 for 9-13 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire rack to cool.
#294 Simple Raspberry Almond Bars
My last end of the year teacher party with my current school. I'm looking forward to meeting a new staff and hopefully develop some good relationships. Cookies should help with that.
#295 Almost a Candy Bar
I've been saving this recipe as it's one Mike specifically asked me not to give away to others. So I saved it for father's day so Mike gets it all to himself (well, almost - I made him share with his kids and wife - and my Dad got a couple).
1 tube (16 1/2 oz) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough
4 nutty s'mores trail mix bars (1.23 oz each), chopped
1 package (11 oz) butterscotch chips
2 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 1/2 cup mini pretzels
1 pkg (10 oz) peanut butter chips
3/4 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup butter
1 pkg (11.5 oz) milk chocolate chips
Let dough stand at room temp for 5-10 minutes to soften. In a large bowl, combine dough and trail mix bars. Press into an ungreased 13x9in pan. Bake, uncovered at 350 for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Sprinkle with butterscotch chips and marshmallows. Bake 3-4 minutes longer or until marshmallows begin to brown. Sprinkle with walnuts; arrange pretzels over the top. In a small saucepan, melt peanut butter chips, corn syrup and butter; spoon over bars.
In a microwave, melt chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Drizzle chocolate over bars. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until firm before cutting.
Monday, May 15, 2017
Happy Mother's Day
What is it about Mother's Day that moms end up doing so much work? I had my mom over and made dinner. And these two batches of cookies were for my mom and mother-in-law. Really, this is not that much work, and less than I normally do, but anything these days with 3 kids (1 being less than a month old) I consider a superhero act. You'd be wise to agree.
#290 Soft Lemon-Ginger cookies
They are soft - think of those soft and chewy chips ahoy cookies - like that soft.
They're not very lemony or gingery.
Hopefully after being in the freezer for a couple of days and now in a box shipping across the midwest; they'll still be delicious for my MIL.
#291 Chocolate-covered Cherry Cookies
These were the ones that were my own Mother's Day treat to myself. I've passed this recipe so many times thinking; those will be great; I need to save those. They are great. I've never tasted chocolate frosting so delicious (I ate probably 1/4 of it - after the cookies were all frosted).
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup baking cocoa
1/2 tsp salt, divided
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Add egg and vanilla; mix well. Combine the flour, cocoa, 1/4 tsp salt; baking powder and baking soda; gradually add to the creamed mixture.
Drain cherries; reserving 1 1/2 tsps of juice. Pat cherries dry. Shape 1 tablespoon of dough around each cherry. Place cookies 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes or until set. Remove to wire racks to cool.
For frosting, in a saucepan, heat chocolate chips and milk until chips are melted; stir until smooth. Remove from the heat. Add reserved cherry juice and remaining salt. Frost cookies.
Wednesday, May 3, 2017
3 kids
I got this three kids thing down. The trick is to be under no illusions that you'll get anything done. All day is devoted completely to the kids. Each morning I just have to decide how I'm going to keep the kids busy and happy for the day. Today's plan: the park. Actually, that's most days' plans - getting outside keeps things smooth.
I guess I was able to get one thing done. We did bake a batch of cookies. The four year old and I waited until the toddler took her nap. The newborn infant - easy peasy (lemon squeezy as the 4 year old would say). I'm counting my blessings and taking advantage as much as I can while our newborn likes to just sleep (and more importantly, lets me sleep - up to 5-6 consecutive hours each night).
Here's us baking batch #289
Frosted Orange Cookies (made for teacher appreciation week at my son's preschool)
Interesting recipe - chop up oranges and throw the oranges and the peel and all in a processor.
Surprisingly tasty.
2 medium naval oranges (I used 3)
1/2 cup butter flavored shortening
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup milk
2 cups flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tbs butter, melted
With a sharp paring knife, score each orange into quarters; remove peel. Use knife to remove white pith from the peel and the fruit; discard. Quarter oranges and place in a blender (or food processor). Add peel, cover and process until smooth (mixture should measure 3/4 cup).
In a large bowl, cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the milk and 6 tablespoons orange mixture. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture until blended.
Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 in. apart onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 350 for 10-13 minutes or until set and edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.
For frosting, in a small mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, butter and enough of the remaining orange mixture to achieve spreading consistency. Frost cookies.
Sunday, April 16, 2017
Call it nesting
I've baked so many cookies in the past couple of weeks I haven't been able to keep up with the writing. I have 6 new batches to report on. Maybe I'm nesting. I've probably been driving my husband crazy. I'm throwing things out, wanting things moved, rooms painted and the house clean.
We are 5 days away from the big day. I keep thinking we're ready, then I add a whole new list of things that would be nice if it were done before baby comes. This is my 3rd child; I don't remember nesting like this with the other two.
#283 Grandma's Chocolate Chip Bars
Birthday week. Friends game night. Let's face it; if I don't make my own plans for my birthday; I don't get to do anything. My husband kept asking why I was having people over - because as he proved - he did nothing for my birthday. Now before he is painted too badly; he did eventually do something - just two weeks later. He was very sweet and got me three Menard's shirts (because, you know, they're free). One an XL - so I can wear it now as nothing fits my 9 month pregnant body. A L - for when I'm post baby but still looking 6 months pregnant - and a M - for later still when I'm back to myself.
See - to me - that's very sweet. I don't need expensive gifts - just sweet thoughts.
So this recipe - was my little birthday treat for myself and my friends.
#284 Devil's Food Cookies
Just a quick little batch for a little spring break picnic. Out to the park with cousins. Unfortunately for us, the park wasn't open. Can you believe that? I didn't know an outdoor park had a spring opening date. Fortunately for us; we were at the largest parks of the Three Rivers Park district and there was a nature center and trails (with sticks and logs to build forts).
#286 Frosted Peanut Butter cookies
3 batches in one weekend and it's easter week. And I'm due with a baby in 5 days. I thought I might be overdoing it, but they were all fairly simple recipes.
Take this batch. It only made 2 dozen and it was made from using a cookie mix; I just dressed it up.
For my friend who just had her baby. Another friend of mine and I are bringing her dinner tomorrow.
1 pkg peanut butter cookie mix
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup baking cocoa
1/4 cup hot water
1 tsp vanilla extract
Sliced almonds or pecan halves
In a large bowl, prepare the cookie mix according to package directions. Shape into 1 in. balls. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets.
Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Cool for 1 minute before removing to wire racks.
For frosting, in a bowl, combine the sugar, cocoa, water and vanilla. Spread over cookies; top with nuts.
We are 5 days away from the big day. I keep thinking we're ready, then I add a whole new list of things that would be nice if it were done before baby comes. This is my 3rd child; I don't remember nesting like this with the other two.
#283 Grandma's Chocolate Chip Bars
Birthday week. Friends game night. Let's face it; if I don't make my own plans for my birthday; I don't get to do anything. My husband kept asking why I was having people over - because as he proved - he did nothing for my birthday. Now before he is painted too badly; he did eventually do something - just two weeks later. He was very sweet and got me three Menard's shirts (because, you know, they're free). One an XL - so I can wear it now as nothing fits my 9 month pregnant body. A L - for when I'm post baby but still looking 6 months pregnant - and a M - for later still when I'm back to myself.
See - to me - that's very sweet. I don't need expensive gifts - just sweet thoughts.
So this recipe - was my little birthday treat for myself and my friends.
#284 Devil's Food Cookies
Just a quick little batch for a little spring break picnic. Out to the park with cousins. Unfortunately for us, the park wasn't open. Can you believe that? I didn't know an outdoor park had a spring opening date. Fortunately for us; we were at the largest parks of the Three Rivers Park district and there was a nature center and trails (with sticks and logs to build forts).
#285 Lemon Butter Cookies
So I did it before and I'm doing it again. With baby #2 I made a batch of cookies to bring in when I delivered. It was very popular. Now I can't say that I necessarily got better care; I would like to think that the nurses always do a phenomenal job. But like teachers, nurses are probably overworked, underpaid and underappreciated. So this batch is just a little token of my thanks.
3 batches in one weekend and it's easter week. And I'm due with a baby in 5 days. I thought I might be overdoing it, but they were all fairly simple recipes.
Take this batch. It only made 2 dozen and it was made from using a cookie mix; I just dressed it up.
For my friend who just had her baby. Another friend of mine and I are bringing her dinner tomorrow.
1 pkg peanut butter cookie mix
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup baking cocoa
1/4 cup hot water
1 tsp vanilla extract
Sliced almonds or pecan halves
In a large bowl, prepare the cookie mix according to package directions. Shape into 1 in. balls. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets.
Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Cool for 1 minute before removing to wire racks.
For frosting, in a bowl, combine the sugar, cocoa, water and vanilla. Spread over cookies; top with nuts.
#287 Almond Truffle Brownies
Easter time. This was my contribution.
So I almost scarred my child I think. The kid was still up at 10:00 at night (unbeknownst to me). I was preparing a sand bucket full of candy when he walked into the kitchen. I jumped up and shooed him out. He asked what I was so scared for. He came down because he felt he needed to put out his Easter basket from last year for the bunny. I ended up ditching the sand toys and then just filling the basked instead (after he actually was asleep). I don't think he caught on; I hope.
#288 Almond Toffee Shortbread
This may just be the last batch my co-workers get from me. I start maternity leave on Friday and I'm out for the rest of the year. As you may have read from my last post; I've been excessed from my building and am not returning their next year. So; this may be it.
Good news though on the job front; it looks like I may get a chance to interview for new jobs. #Strongwoman #advocateforyourself
So this may be it for a while. Life's about to hit the fan and I don't know when I'll get back to baking.
Saturday, March 18, 2017
Life Changing
Some people described one of these batches as life changing. Okay, only 1 person said that. But then, I realized 2017 may be the year of life changing events; maybe just not in the form of a brownie. New baby, and apparently a new job.
New baby is coming in less than 5 weeks. And a couple of weeks ago I found out I was excessed from my teaching position at my school. I still have a job in the district, but due to declining enrollment and budget cuts and the fact that I'm least senior; I'm out of my building. I saw this coming and am sad to be leaving, but it's not the school's fault. But the kicker is; normally when a teacher is excessed they can participate in a process in the spring to interview at different schools that have openings and decide where they want to go; but apparently there is a policy in place that if you are on any medical leave (including maternity) then you cannot participate in this process. I was so confused; I thought we lived in the 21st century where women weren't punished anymore for having children. So stay tuned for that life changing process.
#279 Cookie Pizza
Yes, I'm more than a month behind. Made this yummy pizza for our little Super Bowl party.
#280 Coconut Chocolate Slices
Speaking of my workplace - this is the last month of cookies for the "Cookies for a Year" winner at my school (from our school carnival). This month's batch: a slice and bake cookie with a chocolate ring and coconut filling.
#281 Choco-cloud brownies
Life changing - so I'm told.
Again, speaking of the workplace. I and one other co-worker are generally the ones who bring in cookies and treats to share. Both of us have lost our positions. I was hoping my role as the morale booster would give us a little job security. ; )
Here's the recipe:
1 cup butter, softened Frosting:
2 cups sugar 5 tbs flour
4 eggs 1 cup milk
1 milk chocolate candy bar (7 oz), melted 1 cup butter, softened
3 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup confectioner's sugar
2 cups flour 2 tsps vanilla
1/2 tsp salt Baking cocoa
2 cups chopped pecans
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Add chocolate and vanilla; mix well. Gradually add flour and salt. Stir in pecans.
Spread into a greased 9 x 13in. pan. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or util center is set and edges pull away from pan. Cool in pan on wire rack.
For frosting, combine flour and milk in a small saucepan until smooth. Bring o a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat; cool completely. In a small bowl, cream butter and confectioner's sugar. Add vanilla; mix well. Gradually add milk mixture; beat for 5 minutes or until fluffy. Frost brownies; dust with cocoa. Cut into bars. Store in refrigerator.
#282 Tried 'n' True Peanut Butter Cookies
I haven't actually made this batch, but plan to tomorrow to bring into work, to boost morale. It's not just me that's been excessed; we're losing quite a few of our staff.
I know I'm not great about blogging so I'll pre-blog it.
I don't think I can go wrong with a classic peanut butter cookie.
New baby is coming in less than 5 weeks. And a couple of weeks ago I found out I was excessed from my teaching position at my school. I still have a job in the district, but due to declining enrollment and budget cuts and the fact that I'm least senior; I'm out of my building. I saw this coming and am sad to be leaving, but it's not the school's fault. But the kicker is; normally when a teacher is excessed they can participate in a process in the spring to interview at different schools that have openings and decide where they want to go; but apparently there is a policy in place that if you are on any medical leave (including maternity) then you cannot participate in this process. I was so confused; I thought we lived in the 21st century where women weren't punished anymore for having children. So stay tuned for that life changing process.
#279 Cookie Pizza
Yes, I'm more than a month behind. Made this yummy pizza for our little Super Bowl party.
#280 Coconut Chocolate Slices
Speaking of my workplace - this is the last month of cookies for the "Cookies for a Year" winner at my school (from our school carnival). This month's batch: a slice and bake cookie with a chocolate ring and coconut filling.
#281 Choco-cloud brownies
Life changing - so I'm told.
Again, speaking of the workplace. I and one other co-worker are generally the ones who bring in cookies and treats to share. Both of us have lost our positions. I was hoping my role as the morale booster would give us a little job security. ; )
Here's the recipe:
1 cup butter, softened Frosting:
2 cups sugar 5 tbs flour
4 eggs 1 cup milk
1 milk chocolate candy bar (7 oz), melted 1 cup butter, softened
3 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup confectioner's sugar
2 cups flour 2 tsps vanilla
1/2 tsp salt Baking cocoa
2 cups chopped pecans
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Add chocolate and vanilla; mix well. Gradually add flour and salt. Stir in pecans.
Spread into a greased 9 x 13in. pan. Bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or util center is set and edges pull away from pan. Cool in pan on wire rack.
For frosting, combine flour and milk in a small saucepan until smooth. Bring o a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from the heat; cool completely. In a small bowl, cream butter and confectioner's sugar. Add vanilla; mix well. Gradually add milk mixture; beat for 5 minutes or until fluffy. Frost brownies; dust with cocoa. Cut into bars. Store in refrigerator.
#282 Tried 'n' True Peanut Butter Cookies
I haven't actually made this batch, but plan to tomorrow to bring into work, to boost morale. It's not just me that's been excessed; we're losing quite a few of our staff.
I know I'm not great about blogging so I'll pre-blog it.
I don't think I can go wrong with a classic peanut butter cookie.
Sunday, January 29, 2017
Off to a good start
So I figured this project would take me 12 years. There are 623 recipes. If I make 52 a year (so average one batch a week) - that's 12 years. So far I'm close to being on target. I started this project in October of 2011. I am up to 278 batches completed. I only needed to be at 260 by this past October - and 312 by this October. So 32 more batches this year (before October - October is more than 32 weeks away, right? Maybe it's not?
Anyways, I got my 4 batches done for the month of January.
#275 Fudge Filled Brownies
So when you only make 7 batches of cookies for Christmas (instead of 10 or more batches), you don't have a ton of leftover cookies in January. Being 6 months pregnant and only craving junk; I wanted some junk around. So I made these. Not as good as you would think by looking at the recipe title. But a 3 year old doesn't mind.
Anyways, I got my 4 batches done for the month of January.
#275 Fudge Filled Brownies
So when you only make 7 batches of cookies for Christmas (instead of 10 or more batches), you don't have a ton of leftover cookies in January. Being 6 months pregnant and only craving junk; I wanted some junk around. So I made these. Not as good as you would think by looking at the recipe title. But a 3 year old doesn't mind.
#276 Chocolate Caramel Wafers
Now these were as good as they sound (and a shortcut cookie - so quick and easy).
Just take a package of vanilla wafers and mix a caramel filling. (14oz of caramels and 1/4 cup evaporated milk) - microwave till melted and stir until smooth.
Spread the caramel over the wafers and put on an ungreased baking sheet. Top each cookie with a hershey bar square and melt in the oven (at 225) for 1-2 minutes. Spread the chocolate. You can sprinkle chopped pecans over it if you desire.
The kids are really good at helping. My almost 2 year old is in training and the almost 4 year old can practically do it himself.
#277 Fudge Topped Orange Cookies
Yay - girls weekend at the cabin with no children. But the only junk we ate was these cookies that I brought.
Not that we weren't up to some other fun stuff. Check out our mannequin challenge:
https://www.facebook.com/tanell.fisher/videos/10154798165491399/
Not sure if you'll be able to see it, it's on my friends facebook page, can't download it.
#278 Ginger Diamonds
I made this batch for our staff potluck; thinking that it's one that doesn't look that great, but teachers eat everything - so I'll just get it out of the way.
Don't you know, it turned out pretty good. Very soft - texture amazing. Mike (husband) doesn't love ginger cookies, but he's been sneaking some of these before they're off to work tomorrow.
Sunday, January 1, 2017
Christmas Wrap Up
So as usual, I'm behind. So look at this pretty picture of batches 268-274.
So I'm even further behind than just my Christmas cookies:
265 Cinnamon Almond Crescents
I made these for our bi-annual crafty women retreat where I spent approximately 20 hours sitting in a chair killing myself in order to try and get this cross stitch done. It's a 40 page pattern and I have 5 pages left. So far I have over 2000 hours into this project. All for my daughter - I'm not going to use it later to guilt her - never ever.
266 Butterscotch Peanut Bars
I love not having to make lunch. I'd rather make a batch of bars then have to make lunch for work. Yay for the social committee and the potato bar!
267 Browned Butter Spritz
Sometimes teachers have it way harder than I should. It doesn't make sense to base pay on merit - because the really good teachers, sometimes gets the hardest students. This has been happening to one teacher on my team lately - she's had a rough year. So I baked her this batch of cookies. Browned butter inside a spritz cookie.
So I'm even further behind than just my Christmas cookies:
265 Cinnamon Almond Crescents
I made these for our bi-annual crafty women retreat where I spent approximately 20 hours sitting in a chair killing myself in order to try and get this cross stitch done. It's a 40 page pattern and I have 5 pages left. So far I have over 2000 hours into this project. All for my daughter - I'm not going to use it later to guilt her - never ever.
 |
| I realize its upside down. I don't care right now. |
266 Butterscotch Peanut Bars
I love not having to make lunch. I'd rather make a batch of bars then have to make lunch for work. Yay for the social committee and the potato bar!
267 Browned Butter Spritz
Sometimes teachers have it way harder than I should. It doesn't make sense to base pay on merit - because the really good teachers, sometimes gets the hardest students. This has been happening to one teacher on my team lately - she's had a rough year. So I baked her this batch of cookies. Browned butter inside a spritz cookie.
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