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Blueberry Cobbler Dump Cake Recipe (Easy and Yummy for Summer!)

July 2, 2019 by Laurie 13 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

This blueberry cobbler dump cake is an easy summer recipe that your whole family will love!

Blueberry Cobbler Dump Cake

I've been making this Blueberry Cobbler Dump Cake in the summertime for years, and every time I see blueberries go on sale I can't wait to whip it up!

It's super simple to make, takes about 3 minutes to dump together, then bake for 45 minutes and serve up with cool whip or your favorite vanilla ice cream. Super simple and easy to make ~ and always a winner at our house!

Here's all you need to get started . . .

Fill the bottom of your 9×13 baking dish with blueberries.

Layer on the crushed pineapple.

Sprinkle cake mix over top of blueberries & pineapples.

Drizzle melted butter over cake mix.

Bake for 45 minutes, serve warm and enjoy!

How to Make Blueberry Cobbler Dump Cake

Ingredients

1 box yellow cake mix
2 cups blueberries
2 sticks of melted butter or margarine
1 15 oz. can crushed pineapple

Directions

Preheat oven at 350 degrees.
Put blueberries and pineapple in 9×13 baking dish or casserole.
Shake cake mix over top, then drizzle with melted butter or margarine. (My youngest has been making this one for years ~ when she was little I just put it all out for her to dump!)
You won't need to mix the cake mix with anything, just drizzle well with margarine (I know that's hard to imagine, but it really does work!)
Cook for 45 minutes or until brown on the top. Enjoy!

If you need a little more menu inspiration, check out the Recipe Index. Join Passionate Penny Pincher on Facebook to keep up with all the meals & deals.

If you need a little more menu inspiration, check out theRecipe Index. JoinPassionate Penny Pincher on Facebookto keep up with all the meals & deals.

4th of July Berry Trifle Recipe

July 2, 2019 by Laurie 6 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

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4th of July Berry Trifle Recipe

Guess what I had for breakfast this morning? 😉

Yup, you guessed it. This is one of those recipes that I wait around all year long to make (for whatever reason?), but it's just the perfect treat for the 4th. It's easy to make ahead of time, light and fluffy, and absolutely delicious.

Perfect, right? Here's how to whip it up in your kitchen too, plus all the best prices on everything you need so you can pinch those pennies too. 😉

Berry Trifle

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
large package vanilla pudding, instant
2 cups milk
12 oz cool whip
1 tsp vanilla
1 angel food cake
1 qt strawberries
blueberries
sugar

Instructions

Mix first 5 ingredients together using mixer.
Cut angel food cake into cubes.
Slice strawberries.
Layer cake, then cream filling, then strawberries & blueberries. Sprinkle a little sugar over berries.
Repeat.
Top with remaining strawberries and berries.
Refrigerate for an hour prior to serving. Enjoy!

https://passionatepennypincher.com/berry-trifle/

If you have leftover blueberries and need another yummy dessert to go with your berry trifle – check out this Blueberry Cobbler Dump Cake!

If you need a little more menu inspiration, go HERE.

Homemade Chocolate Cake Mix

June 26, 2019 by Cheree' Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Need a good homemade chocolate cake mix? If you were a fan of the homemade yellow cake mix recipe we posted a few weeks ago then you're going to go gaga over this one! Yum, Yum!! 🙂

Homemade Chocolate Cake Mix

My family is very happy tonight, haha! This homemade chocolate cake was a big hit and I even cheated with a store bought frosting.

Shhhhh, don't tell!

You'll definitely want to add this to your pantry when you see how simple (I'm talking ridiculously easy) this one is to whip up. 🙂

Homemade Chocolate Cake Mix Directions

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups white sugar
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
3 eggs
1/4 cup salted butter, melted
1 1/3 cups hot water (or hot coffee)

Directions

To make mix: combine flour, sugar cocoa powder, baking soda and baking powder; mix well.

Store until ready to use.

Instructions When Ready to Prepare Cake Batter:

1. Add cake mix to a large mixing bowl. Add eggs, melted butter and water. Blend until well combined.

2. Pour batter into greased and floured cake or muffin pans.

3. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake according to times below.

4. Cool cake before frosting.

13″ x 9″ cake pan – bake about 35 minutes.
8″x 8″ round cake pans – bake about 30 minutes.
Bundt pan – bake about 45 minutes.
Cupcakes – bake about 18 minutes.

I used a store bought frosting for this one, but a chocolate buttercream icing like this one would be fabulous.

I can't wait to try this one using coffee instead of water. ☕️☕️ Then I can eat it for breakfast, right??? 😜

Chocolate Lovers Unite!!! ❤️

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Chocolate Meringue Pie

June 18, 2019 by Laurie 5 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Chocolate Meringue Pie

Note from Laurie: my cute Reagan is twelve this summer, and she's OBSESSED with baking. She just made her very first chocolate meringue pie (and it truly was the best ever, so I figured you'd appreciate the recipe!)

I shared with her that her grandmother always told me that her neighbor Suzie Thomas made the very best meringue pie, and know this pie would have made Reagan's grandma proud. Let me know if you'd love to see another recipe or two from Reagan (and you can follow her letter board account over on Instagram too ~ she's just starting out but everyone has to start somewhere!) 🙂

This is Reagan and I'm writing a post about a Chocolate Meringue Pie recipe that my whole family loved. This recipe was on the harder side, but it was totally worth all the time it took.

I found the pie recipe at Allrecipes.com, and the best graham cracker crust recipe we could find was on the back of the Kroger graham cracker container box (scroll down for that.)

Ingredients

9 inch baked pie crust (scroll down for the recipe we used)
3/4 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
3 tablespoons cornstarch
3 egg whites
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
2 cups milk
6 tablespoons white sugar
3 egg yolks, beaten

Directions For Chocolate Filling

Mix together sugar, cocoa, corn starch, and salt in a medium saucepan.
Next, slowly add in the milk, stirring constantly.
Cook and stir the filling over medium high heat until thick and
Turn the heat to medium low and stir continuously for two more minutes. Remove pan from heat.
Add one cup of the hot filling to your bowl of 3 beaten egg yolks. After the egg yolks and the filling are mixed well, add them back into the saucepan with the rest of the hot filling and bring to a gentle boil.
Cook and stir on medium low for another two minutes.
Add in the vanilla, then pour the filling into a baked pie crust

Directions for Meringue

In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
Slowly add in the sugar, continuing to beat the egg whites until they are stiff and glossy.
Spread over the hot filling, sealing the meringue into the pie crust. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden.

Pie Crust

1 stick butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/4 cup graham cracker crumbs

Mix together melted butter, sugar and graham cracker crumbs. Spread into pie plate and chill in refrigerator for one hour before baking. Bake at 350 for 8 minutes and cool before filling.

Looking for more yummy pie recipes? Here you go! (Um, clearly we love a little pie at our house!)

Strawberry Pie

Smore Peanut Butter Pie

Skillet Apple Pie

Peanut Butter Brownie Pizza Recipe

June 7, 2019 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Good gravy do I have a treat in store for you! This one will be PERFECT for the weekend! ❤️

Peanut Butter Brownie Pizza

This recipe does not disappoint and is just scrumptious!!

Honestly, any time there is chocolate, cream cheese and peanut butter all together in a recipe, it most likely will be a winner. 💯

If you like to mix your chocolate with your peanut butter ~ this one's for you! 🙂

Peanut Butter Brownie Pizza Directions

Ingredients

18.3 oz pkg brownie mix with ingredients for making cake-like brownies
8 oz pkg cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup milk chocolate chips
1 tsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening
½ cup peanuts, coarsely chopped
about 20 miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, cut into quarters

This recipe is enough to make TWO 9 inch brownie pizzas.

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF.

2. Prepare brownie mix according to package directions for cake-like brownies.

3. Spritz two 9 inch round cake pans with non-stick cooking spray. Line with parchment paper and spritz again. Divide the brownie mix between the two pans.

4. Bake the brownies for 15 to 20 minutes or until the middle is set. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely. Remove from baking pans before decorating.

5. In a medium bowl, beat together the peanut butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth. (If the consistency is not easily spreadable due to a different consistency in the peanut butter, mix in 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk.)

6. Evenly spread cream cheese mixture over the cookie. Decorate as desired with peanuts and peanut butter cups.

7. Melt milk chocolate chips with coconut oil in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir well. Drizzle over peanuts and candy.

8. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Best if served immediately.

Sooooo yummy! 😋

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Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie for Derby Day!

May 4, 2019 by Laurie 8 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Need a Derby-ish pie for watching the Kentucky Derby??

This chocolate chip pecan pie might just be my favorite pie ever. It tastes almost identical to the famous Derby Pie of Louisville, Ky.My brother-in-law makes it every Thanksgiving, and if it were up to me I’d bypass the turkey and dressing completely, and gobble down this fabulous pie first (in fact, I've been known to do that a time or two!)

The recipe comes from Patti’s Restaurant in Western Kentucky (also home to the famous Boo-Boo Pie, and the largest Pork Chops you’ve ever seen), so you know it’s gotta be good. In fact, it's my go-to pie to make this time of year 🙂

Here's the recipe . . . enjoy!!

12 Days Christmas Baking: Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup melted butter (it’s not as good with margarine)
2 eggs, slightly beaten
6 oz. package chocolate chips
1 cup chopped pecans
1 teaspoon vanilla
9 inch unbaked pie shell

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325.
Mix together sugar and flour. Add melted butter and blend well.
Stir in eggs, chocolate chips, nuts and vanilla.
Pour mixture into pie shell. Bake in oven for one hour or until golden brown.
Pie will wiggle a little when done; but will continue to set as it cools. Serves 8.

https://passionatepennypincher.com/chocolate-chip-pecan-pie/

Valentine White Trash Candy

January 29, 2019 by Cheree' 2 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Valentine White Trash Candy

This is typically a recipe I think about during the Christmas season, but it's really PERFECT for any seasonal holiday. So, Valentine's Day seemed like the perfect holiday to whip some up! 💗

Here's what you'll need to get started . . .

plus, a great use for the almond bark I snagged on clearance at Kroger 👇🏻👇🏻 – WHOOP!

measure out the ingredients – this 8 cup Pyrex measuring cup is awesome!

toss them all together in a ginormous bowl!

melt your almond bark (or use 2 packages of white morsels along with 2 tablespoons vegetable oil instead) – either way is FANTASTIC!

mix it all up….

then spread onto wax paper, add a few sprinkles and let cool 🙂

and try not to nibble, ha! 😜

package it up as fast as you can and give it away!!!

How to Make Valentine White Trash Candy:

Ingredients

6 cups Rice or Corn Chex Cereal
6 cups small pretzels
16 oz jar dry roasted peanuts
11 oz bag plan M&M's
24 oz almond bark (1 1/2 packages)
sprinkles (optional)
wax or parchment paper

Directions

Combine cereal, pretzels, peanuts and M&M's in a huge bowl.
Line 2 large baking sheets with wax or parchment paper. Or, spread a couple of large pieces on your countertop if they can tolerate a bit of heat.
Place almond bark in a large glass bowl. Microwave in 30 second intervals until the almond bark is melted and very pourable.
Pour melted almond bark over dry ingredients; stirring gently to combine. Once combined, spoon mixture onto the wax paper and spread. Add sprinkles, if desired.
Cool on the countertop or pop in the refrigerator until set. Break into pieces and store in an air-tight container at room temperature.

So yummy and completely addictive…….I warned ya! 🤗

Looking for a few more fun Valentine ideas??

Valentine's Day Dinner (on the cheap!)

DIY Dollar Tree Candy Jar

3 Quick and Easy DIY Valentine Crafts

Dollar Tree Valentine Project

Looking for more penny pinched recipes? Here you go!

Peanut Butter Fudge: 12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 2 (2018)

December 11, 2018 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

As I shared yesterday I'll be posting our 12 Days of Christmas Baking over the next two weeks, and goodness, this one is always a favorite at our house (plus it makes so much, so it's perfect to share with folks over the holidays!)

The ingredients are pretty simple ~ and it takes less than 30 minutes to make.

Perfection.

My son Jackson gets home from tonight from college, and I'm just so glad he'll have something yummy waiting for him when he walks in the door. 🙂

And my Caroline . . . well she decided that she needed exactly eight batches to share with friends at school tomorrow, so they're all wrapped up and ready to go.

I'd love for you to join me and download your free 12 Days of Christmas Baking Grocery List and Cookbook over HERE.

And if you're making any yummy recipes this month, I'd s0 love for you to leave a comment and share what you're making too!

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 1: Muddy Buddy Chex Mix
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 2: Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 3: Almost Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 4: Christmas Crack
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 5: Reese's Peanut Butter Bars
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 6: Peppermint Chocolate Fudge
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 7: Best Chocolate Chip Cookies {EVER}
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 8: Easy Marshmallow Fudge
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 9: Honey Bun Cake
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 10: Buckeye Balls
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 11: Hello Dolly Bars
12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 12: Slow Cooker Christmas Candy

Note: be sure to download your FREE Christmas Made Easy checklists including the 12 days of Christmas recipes to print at home (watch for it via email as soon as you sign up). But, if you'd like a “real” paper copy mailed to you head on over HERE to order one on Amazon.

12 Days of Christmas Baking: Day 1

December 10, 2018 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

It's a new 12 Days of Christmas Baking series (you can download your grocery list and cookbook HERE), where we'll be making yummy Christmas treats to share with others this season!

I'll be honest . . . I totally wanted to skip this series this year (or at least to do it all in one day . . . ) but my daughter Caroline begged me to keep it around so she would have treats to share with her friends at school each day.

Well, you can imagine I was all about making her day that way (I really do love to bake!) so here we are. Oodles of Muddy Buddy Chex Mix mad and one really happy girl on her way. 🙂

Here are the recipes included in the free cookbook (I'm not sure I'll make all of them on Facebook Live, but you can print all the recipes + my free Christmas printable checklists right over HERE.)

12 Days of Christmas Baking:

Day 1: Hello Dolly Bars
Day 2: Muddy Buddy Chex Mix
Day 3: Slow Cooker Christmas Candy
Day 4: Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge
Day 5: Homemade Cinnabons
Day 6: Christmas Crack
Day 7: No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars
Day 8: Peppermint Fudge
Day 9: Best Chocolate Chip Cookies EVER
Day 10: Easiest Fudge EVER
Day 11: Happy Birthday Jesus Cake
Day 12: Peanut Butter Buckeye Balls

Looking for more homemade DIY projects? Here you go!

Southern Living Chunky Apple Cake Recipe

September 21, 2018 by Laurie 1 Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Southern Living Chunky Apple Cake Recipe

I've posted this Southern Living Chunky Apple Cake recipe each fall since I first started blogging, and it's one of those recipes that no one should miss (so I feel it's my duty to re-share!) If you haven't tried it yet, add the ingredients to your grocery list this week, and enjoy. 🙂

This apple cake is by far my favorite fall treat, and when my daughter and I made it last week she even made a cute little video to show the process. I could make this cake all year long and never grow tired of it, but it just sounds so good in the fall and makes our home smell delicious!

Note – I'm not sure why on earth the video has those few extra spots for “titles” in it – they didn't show up when we were uploading it but apparently are in there somewhere – we're learning! 🙂

When I first found the recipe nine years ago I was teaching preschool “cooking and science” and my preschool classes made the cake – our entire church smelled heavenly! So, grab your apron and a few apples (you might love this apple peeler/corer too), and get baking.

Southern Living re-printed this recipe in their October 2010 issue (along with a few variations), but I'm sticking with the original. 🙂

Cream cheese icing is what takes this apple cake over the top.

PRINT RECIPE

Southern Living Chunky Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
2 cups sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced I think any tart apple will do – we used a bag of apples on sale at Publix in last week's sale. (To see detailed apple information, check out this site!) If you have an apple peeler & slicer it makes this so easy, and my kids love watching it work! If not you may have a little more prep time on your hands.
1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted (optional, but we've never used them)

Directions:

1 . Stir together first 4 ingredients in large bowl until blended.

2 . Combine flour and next 3 ingredients; add to butter mixture, stirring until blended.

3 . Stir in apple slices and 1 cup walnuts. (Batter will be very thick, almost like cookie dough.)

4 . Spread into a well-greased 13- x 9-inch pan. (It's pretty sticky, so make sure to grease your pan well!)

5 . Bake at 350° for 45 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.

6 . Cool completely in pan on a wire rack.

7 . Spread with Cream Cheese Frosting; sprinkle with walnuts, if desired.

PRINT RECIPE

Easy Cream Cheese Frosting

note – you may want to double frosting – we always like extra!

Ingredients

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
3 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/8 tsp. salt

To make the Cream Cheese Frosting . . .

Beat cream cheese and butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add sugar and salt, beating until blended. Stir in vanilla.

Recipe adapted from Southern Living Magazine. If you need a little more menu inspiration, check out the Recipe Index.

Looking for more apple recipes?

Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe (SO Good for Summer!)

June 14, 2018 by Cheree' 2 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Note from Laurie: my friend Cheree makes this AMAZING Strawberry Pretzel Salad, and I can't wait to try it myself! I'll be honest, I've never quite successfully made this one (I've had a few flops along the way . . . ), so I can't wait to try letting the gelatin cool completely before assembling. Excited to try it!

Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe

This recipe is definitely a LOVE/HATE relationship. 🙂

I LOVE all it's deliciousness, but boy, it can sure test your patience and slide you right over to the HATE side!

However, I think I have discovered the key to making a perfect (well, almost perfect)… Strawberry Pretzel Salad.

You need to let your gelatin cool before assembling. Just let it hang out on the counter while you are working.

So, there you have it.

(but don't hold me to it if your Strawberry Pretzel Salad ends up like so many of mine have and slides right off the plate).

Here's what you'll need to get started…

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Ingredients

2 ½ – 3 cups crushed pretzels

1/2 cup melted butter

3 Tbsps plus 1 cup sugar

1 (8-oz) pkg cream cheese, softened

1 (8-oz) container whipped topping, thawed

1 (6-oz) pkg strawberry gelatin

2 cups boiling water

1 lb pkg fresh strawberries, sliced

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
For the crust, mix pretzels, 3 Tbsps sugar and butter together. Press into the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Bake 10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a small bowl, mix gelatin and boiling water together. Set aside and allow to cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping until combined. Spread over cooled crust. Refrigerate until chilled.
Add sliced strawberries to cooled gelatin and stir to combine. Pour over cream cheese mixture.
Cover and refrigerate at least 3 hours or until set. I usually make mine the night before I will be serving it.
Cut into slices to serve.

You will impress your friends and family with this Strawberry Pretzel Salad – I promise this one is always a favorite . . . yum!

My kids request Strawberry Pretzel Salad for every special occasion or holiday, so I'm happy to say…

at least right at THIS moment…

I LOVE it. 🙂

Looking for more strawberry inspiration?

EASY Air Fryer Donuts from Biscuit Dough! (4 Kinds)

June 7, 2018 by Laurie 3 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Looking for more uses for your air fryer? We are totally in LOVE with these Easy Air Fryer Donuts from Biscuit Dough

EASY Air Fryer Donuts from Biscuit Dough

Air fryer donuts! Sounds crazy right?? BUT, I have to tell you, they are AMAZING and EASY and FAST and YUMMY!!!

If you missed Facebook Live you can watch it HERE.

When Laurie asked if anyone wanted to try out an air fryer, I'd already been looking into them but wasn't sure I wanted another appliance in the house. Let me tell you how HAPPY I am that I bought one! It's SO convenient, super easy to use and FAST! Everything tastes great and cooks in minimal time. (Check out a killer deal on an air fryer at Kohl's right now!)

Let's get back to the donuts!! I'd heard of donuts in the air fryer and just HAD to try them. The first time I made them for my daughter and her friend the girls RAVED about them. Her friend even went home and told her mom she didn't want donuts any other way!

SOooooo simple!! I used one small can of Grands Biscuits (you could use any cheap biscuits you have on hand). Put a hole in the middle – I had this small heart shaped cookie cutter but you can literally use ANYTHING (the donut holes might be my very favorite part).

Once you have the hole in the middle – you pop them into the air fryer (I was able to fit 4). I set my air fryer to 350 degrees and set the timer for 6 minuets – no pre-heating necessary!!

Half way through flip your donuts, so they brown up on both sides. Once they come out, you put on whatever toppings you'd like, I tried 4 different toppings:

Glazed w/Sprinkles
Chocolate Glazed
Powdered Sugared
Cinnamon Sugared

Seriously, look at these donuts SO easy and best of all they taste AMAZING!!! Such a great alternative to store bought donuts (and so affordable).

EASY Air Fryer Donuts from Biscuit Dough

Ingredients

1 can of biscuits (any kind of canned biscuit – I used Grands as that's what I had on hand)

Optional for toppings:

butter
sugar
cinnamon
cream or milk
vanilla
cocoa powder

Directions for Donuts:

Set your air fryer to 350 degrees (I didn't have to preheat mine at all, just set it and set the dial to the correct time).
Set the timer to 6 mins.
Half way through turn the donuts over.
Pop them out of the air fryer and top as desired!

Directions for Donut Holes:

Set your air fryer to 350 degrees (I didn't have to preheat mine at all, just set it and set the dial to the correct time).
Set the timer to 3/4 mins.
Half way through give your basket a good shake.
Pop them out of the air fryer and top as desired!

TOPPINGS

Cinnamon and Sugar Topping (my favorite!!)

melt a small amount of butter in a dish
put 1/2 cup sugar with 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon and mix well into a bowl or dish
brush the donut with a little bit of the butter when it comes out of the air fryer
roll it into the cinnamon and sugar mixture

Powdered Sugar Topping

Shake or sprinkle powdered sugar right on the donut when it comes out of the air fryer.

Glazed Topping (sprinkles optional)

mix 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, 2/3 tablespoons of milk and 1/2 tsp of vanilla in a bowl
dip one side of the donut into the glaze and let sit on a plate until cooled
top with sprinkles if desired

Chocolate Glazed Topping (sprinkles optional)

mix 1/2 cups of powdered sugar, 2/3 tablespoons of milk, 1 Tbsp of cocoa and 1/2 tsp of vanilla in a bowl
dip one side of the donut into the glaze and let sit on a plate until cooled
top with sprinkles if desired

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Scandalous Grace Cake

February 20, 2018 by Laurie 5 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

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Years ago, I heard Julie Ann Barnhill speak about her book Scandalous Grace at a MOPS conference.

She made the analogy that scandalous grace was like her grandmother's beloved cake recipe. Lavished with mounds of Philly cream cheese frosting, grace was simply abundant.

Since then, every single time I think of grace, a picture of a big ole' slice of chocolate cake comes to mind.

So Saturday afternoon, as I baked my daughter's 13th birthday cake, of course I thought of grace.

{Am I the only girl who thinks about grace when she bakes a cake? Hmph.}

I was in a hurry for that cake to bake up, and pulled the most luscious, perfect chocolate cake out of the oven just a wee bit too early.

After a few moments I looked over to see those perfectly plump cake rounds fall just a bit in the center.

Then a little bit more.

And within just a few minutes, they were thoroughly depressed.

The perfect cake that I'd spent over an hour preparing wasn't quite perfect any more.

Out poured the grace.

I whipped up the frosting.

Not just a smidgen, but gobs of perfect chocolate buttercream and a little Oreo-filled-frosting too.

Once the first layer plopped out on its plate I doled out the frosting.

A little cavern where it fell a pinch further?

Heap on a little more grace.

{Topped with a few semi-sweet-morsels to hide extra flaws too.}

Adding on the second layer, I knew I'd find a few more holes to fill in.

A dollop here, a smattering there, this cake's grace was abundant.

Scandalous, really.

In fact, all those extra imperfections simply made way for a heaving pile of amazing grace.

You've never tasted a cake so perfectly delightful.

And just like that cake . . .

Our imperfections.

Our mess.

Our holes.

Our weakness.

His grace fills them all in.

It fills in the empty spots where I'll never be good enough.

it inflates the sullen areas too worn down to keep going.

It smooths over each hollow and blemish completely.

It plumps everything right up perfectly ~

deliciously,

~ and turns this mess of a momma into His masterpiece.

Thank.

heavens.

And it makes us want to do better.

To be fuller.

To live richer.

To lavish abundant grace on everyone around us, because we've so generously experienced it ourselves.

So go ahead.

Layer on the gra ce.

Whip it up fully and plop it down on everyone you meet.

And share grace completely, because He first showered it on you.

‘But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.' 2 Corinthians 12:9

Scandalous Grace Cake, adapted from Taste's Better from Scratch Chocolate Cake with Oreo Frosting

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Ingredients:

CAKE

2 cups flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup oil
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1/3 cup milk
1/3 cup sour cream
1 cup boiling water

OREO FILLING

1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
1 1/2 – 2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 Tbsp milk
1/2 cup of semi-sweet mini chocolate chips (to sprinkle in the middle)
6-8 Oreo cookies, crumbled
1/2 cup of semi-sweet mini chocolate chips (to sprinkle on the top)

CHOCOLATE FROSTING

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 1/2 – 3 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup evaporated milk, or regular milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and spray two 9-inch round cake pans well with non-stick cooking spray .
In a large bowl combine the flour, sugars, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add oil, eggs, vanilla, milk and sour cream and mix until well combined. Reduce speed and carefully pour in the boiling water. Beat on high speed for 1 minute until batter is nice and fluffy.
Pour the batter evenly between the cake pans and bake for 28-33 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Remove the cakes from oven and allow them to cool completely.
To make the Oreo filling, beat butter with electric mixer about 3 minutes. Add powdered sugar, vanilla and milk and mix well. Fold in crumbled Oreo cookie pieces.
Spread Oreo filling over the top of one of the cake rounds and sprinkle with half of the mini chocolate chips then top with the second cake round.
To make the chocolate frosting, add cocoa powder to a bowl with the melted butter and mix well to combine. Alternately add powdered sugar and milk, beating until you reach your desired spreading consistency. Stir in vanilla.
Cover the cakes with chocolate frosting and decorate with whole Oreos and mini chocolate chips.

Need a little extra grace today? Here you go . . .

Recipe adapted from Tastes Better from Scratch. If you need a little more menu inspiration, go HERE.

Valentine’s Day Dinner (on the cheap!)

February 2, 2018 by Laurie 2 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

My friend Cheree created this amazing Valentine's Day Dinner and Menu Plan for you, and oh my goodness, I just love it!

Cheree has some crazy amazing skills when it comes to floral decor, and her centerpiece was perfect. Don't feel like you have to do anything this fancy, but she spent just $20 on all the flowers you see here ~ you could just as easily skip this step or use something you have on hand (but hers really are gorgeous!)

By using things she (mostly) had on hand, she made a beautiful table arrangement that was such a fun way to spoil her family at home.

But the best part is this really, really …. REALLY cute menu plan to help you prepare your Valentine's Day too.

Here's what's on the menu:

Caprese Salad Skewers

Mixed Berry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette (Laurie's FAVORITE)

Bacon Wrapped Brown Sugar Chicken & Parmesan Crusted Baby Potatoes

Shirley Temples

… and …. this AMAZING (really truly) Flourless Chocolate Torte

A few of the PPP team members actually were able to enjoy Cheree's meal this week together down in Alabama (where most of the PPP team members live . . .) and after seeing their yummy pics I felt a twinge of jealousy and just had to try it out for my family too!

I spent $7 on some tulips to fluff our table (nothing as fancy as Cheree's arrangement, but still a fun splurge!), and then sorted through our ribbon scraps and linen napkins to come up with a tiny bit of a fancy table in our home too.

My kids LOVED the potatoes, the cake was fantastic (although we maybe dove in a wee bit too early before it was completely cooled . . . ), and having Shirley Temples for dinner on a plain old Wednesday night was such a fun treat at our house.

So, if you'd love to skip the crowds and enjoy a simple Valentine's at home on a penny pinched budget, this is just for you.

Go HERE to print your free menu Valentine's Day recipes and menu plan, and leave a comment to let us know if you use it too. Such a fun way to surprise your family (I promise they'll love this one, and know you'll be so glad you tried it out!)

Yellow Squash Bread

August 3, 2017 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

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Note from Laurie ~ my friend Cheryl made this yummy squash bread, and I can't wait to try it out! Here's the recipe if your garden is overflowing with squash this summer too. 😉

Have ton's of yellow squash left over from your garden this summer?

Then this recipe is for you. 🙂

I couldn't believe how much my family loved it!

It tastes just like zucchini bread and the kids won't even know they're getting veggies with this delicious yellow squash bread.

Yum.

Here's what you'll need to get started . . .

Yellow Squash Bread

Ingredients

3 eggs
2 cups white sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup of applesauce
2 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp ground nutmeg
2 cups shredded yellow squash

Directions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Grease two loaf pans.
Use an electric mixer to beat eggs until fluffy.
Beat in the sugar, oil, and vanilla.
Gradually mix in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Fold in the squash.
Spread evenly into two greased loaf pans.
Bake 1 hour in preheated oven, until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

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Margaret Ann’s Country Cobbler

May 3, 2017 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

My sweet friend Margaret Ann was gracious enough to visit us again last Friday, and made the absolutely yummiest homemade Country Cobbler to share.

If you missed the video you can watch on Facebook here.

As I shared earlier, we met at Bible Study this year, and the minute I heard her sweet Southern accent I felt all-of-a-sudden-at-ease in a group of women who were completely new to me.

Isn't it funny how a kind voice can do that?

Once we got to talking, I realized she cared about so many things that I just loved too.

Margaret Ann's been a wife, mom, teacher, realtor, culinary school professor, chef . . . and she's even owned two restaurants in Rome, Georgia.

In fact, one of the scenes from the movie Sweet Home Alabama was filmed in her restaurant Magretta Hall. 😉

I knew you would love Margaret Ann too, so I was thrilled when she offered to do a few “cooking classes” with us here on PPP.

She taught us in the Dinner's Done Facebook group she taught us how to make omelets (I learned so much from her!), and the recipe she shared this week for cobbler is out of this world.

Like really ~ WOW ~ I wasn't even positive I liked peach cobbler when she mentioned sharing this recipe with us, but now that I've had it I'm hooked!

(Note: I DEFINITELY recommen watching the video to see all of her tips – she had so many tricks that I've never read in a cookbook. Thank you Margaret Ann!)

Margaret Ann's Country Cobbler Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups of fruit (peaches, strawberries, blueberries, etc…) (and some of the juice)
1 stick of melted butter
1 cup of flour
1 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup of milk

Directions:

Pour the melted butter into a 7×9 dish. Add the dry ingredients (right into the dish) into the melted butter and mix up a bit.
Next pour one cup of milk on top of the ingredients and mix that in just a little bit.
Add strawberries on top of the mixture with a little bit of the juice (don't mix it!)
Pop in a 350 degree oven for 25 – 30 mins.

Margaret Ann’s Biscuits & Sausage Gravy Recipe

Easter Bunny Kit-Kat Cake (SO Fun for Kids!)

April 15, 2017 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Easter Bunny Kit-Kat Cake

This is the easiest cake, and we had such fun making it this weekend!

**For more Easter recipes, check out this Printable Easter Menu Plan.

This kid-friendly Easy Easter Kit-Kat Cake takes hardly any skills – all you do is bake a round layer cake from a mix and frost it.

Next stick Kit-Kats to the side and tie a pretty ribbon around them to keep everything in place. Finally, pour Cadbury Mini Eggs (or M&Ms) on top, nestle a chocolate Easter Bunny in the middle and you're ready to serve! If you're bringing this to an event, it would travel well in a Cake caddy like this one – but you'll just want to save the Bunny for last.

Easy!

Easy Easter Bunny Kit-Kat Cake

Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients:

1 Box Chocolate cake mix
2 Cans of Chocolate Frosting
LOTS of Kit Kat Bars (10-12)
Cadbury Mini Eggs or Easter M&M's (Large Bag)
Hollow Chocolate Bunny for the Centerpiece (Hollow bunnies will stand up better)

Here's What to Do:

Make a chocolate cake using two round pans, according to box directions.
Once cool, frost the top of one cake and place the second cake on top of it. Now cover both the top and sides of the layer cake with frosting (be REALLY generous so all the candy will stick well!)
Break the Kit Kats into individual sticks and completely cover the sides of the cake.
Wrap a pretty ribbon around the cake and tie gently to help hold all the Kit Kats in place.
Place the chocolate bunny on the center of the cake top and surround with Cadbury Mini Eggs.
Enjoy!

Here's a peek at my daughter Caroline and me making it to get ready for our family this weekend. Hope you enjoy a wonderful Easter, and spend it with a few folks you love!

My prayer for you this Easter is that you might know salvation from the One who values you so greatly that He willingly gave His life for you. It truly is the greatest gift we'll each receive, and allows us freedom and peace. As my son reminds me each Easter morning, “Christ is risen!” He is risen indeed.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cake

February 22, 2017 by Laurie 2 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

I found this recipe over here.

If you have a peanut butter lover at home . . .

Roll up your sleeves and get to work. 🙂

My sweet Caroline found this recipe over on Pinterest and was convinced it was just for her,

and since she doesn't ask that often for much, I happily obliged.

I'd made this one for her last year (clearly one of my favorites . . . )

But this one (quite literally) takes the cake.

Perfection.

Head on over HERE for directions, and let me know what you think!

(Note: the only thing I changed was making this a regular 2 layer cake instead of 4 layers as she suggests in the recipe. Honestly? Four layers would have been considered plain old ridiculous grace at our house, but two layers were a wee bit of heaven!) 🙂

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12 Days Christmas Baking: Peanut Butter Buckeye Balls

December 21, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

This weekend we finished up our 12 Days of Christmas Baking series making Peanut Butter Buckeye Balls, and oh my goodness, they are soooooo good!

Download your free 12 Days of Christmas Baking Grocery List and Cookbook over HERE if you didn't get the chance already ~ I've so enjoyed making everything this week (and hope you've made a few too!) I'm amazed at how much easier it is to get ready for Christmas with a plan in place, and having this list has just made Christmas easier at our house this year.

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

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12 Days Christmas Baking: Happy Birthday Jesus Cake

December 16, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Of all the recipes included in the 12 Days of Christmas Baking Cookbook, I think this is my favorite! It's so super simple to make, and we love the tradition of baking a Happy Birthday Jesus cake on Christmas morning in our home.

Download your free 12 Days of Christmas Baking Grocery List and Cookbook over HERE. I'm amazed at how much easier it is to get ready for Christmas with a plan in place, and having this list has just made Christmas easier at our house this year!

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

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12 Days Christmas Baking: Easiest Fudge Ever

December 15, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Today we're making the easiest fudge ever over on PPP ~ if you've been looking for a no fail recipe, this one's for you!

Make it in under 5 minutes flat, and pack it up so you're ready to go.

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

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12 Days Christmas Baking: Best Chocolate Chip Cookies EVER

December 14, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Today we're making the best chocolate chip cookies EVER ~ I promise if you make one recipe from PPP this Christmas this is the one to make!

As you can tell in the video that we shared last night over on Facebook, Reagan clearly bakes with me a wee bit too often (and it was definitely her bed time), but we had fun making them together either way. 😉

cookie2
Download your free 12 Days of Christmas Baking Grocery List and Cookbook over HERE. I'm amazed at how much easier it is to get ready for Christmas with a plan in place, and having this list has just made Christmas easier at our house this year!
christmasbaking1

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

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12 Days Christmas Baking: Peppermint Fudge

December 13, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Today's 12 days of Christmas baking recipe is Peppermint Chocolate Fudge, and oh my goodness, this one is so simple and just delicious!

(Download the recipe over HERE.)

After making up a batch I set up this homemade hot chocolate bar (completely inspired by my friend Julie at Less Than perfect Life of Bliss ~ check out hers over HERE), which was perfect since we're getting our first bit of snow here at our house today.

I'd love for you to download your free 12 Days of Christmas Baking Grocery List and Cookbook over HERE. I'm amazed at how much easier it is to get ready for Christmas with a plan in place, and having this list has just made Christmas easier at our house this year.

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

Looking for more penny pinched dessert ideas? Here you go.

12 Days Christmas Baking: No Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars

December 12, 2016 by Laurie 1 Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Here's a peek at today's Christmas Baking Recipe ~ yum! And, if you missed us making Christmas Crack yesterday (it was a wee bit of a disaster . . . ) you can check it out over HERE.

I'd love for you to join me, and can't wait to spend this month taking care of our families and friends while we prepare for Christmas! If you're making any yummy recipes this month, I'd s0 love for you to leave a comment and share what you're making.

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

Looking for more penny pinched dessert ideas? Here you go.

12 Days Christmas Baking: Homemade Cinnabons

December 9, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Today we're making Almost Homemade Cinnamon Rolls ~ yummmm!

If you love Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls you have got to try these – they cost about $1 for a dozen cinnamon rolls, and your kids will think you're a rockstar when you're done.

Success!

And, as I mentioned in the video, Flirty Aprons is offering a big discount right now when you use the code SHOPNOW at checkout! You’ll get an extra 60% off site-wide, plus free shipping. That is a fantastic deal. Valid through 12/11!
christmasbaking1

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

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12 Days Christmas Baking: Perfect Peanut Butter Fudge

December 8, 2016 by Laurie 1 Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Today we're making homemade peanut butter fudge, and oh my stars . . . you don't want to miss this one!

peanutbutter

The ingredients are pretty simple ~ and it takes less than 30 minutes to make ~ but this is quite possibly my favorite recipe I've shared so far.

peanutbutterfudge

christmasbaking1

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

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12 Days Christmas Baking: Slow Cooker Christmas Candy

December 7, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

I'm so excited about today's yummy Christmas recipe, but even a wee bit more excited about all the fun packaging supplies I scored yesterday at Hobby Lobby!

While I've found quite a few cute tins, bags, and wraps at Michael's and the Dollar Tree for Christmas baking, the fun ways to gift at Hobby Lobby just made me so happy. (As you can see in the video ~ they just made my day!)

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

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12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 2: Muddy Buddy Chex Mix

December 6, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Today we're making Muddy Buddy Chex Mix ~ sooooo good!

You can download your grocery list and cookbook HERE ~ definitely one of our favorites, and I'd love to hear what your family makes each Christmas too.
christmasbaking1

I'd love for you to join me, and can't wait to spend this month taking care of our families and friends while we prepare for Christmas! If you're making any yummy recipes this month I'd love for you to leave a comment and share what you're making.

Looking for more ideas? Here you go:

12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 1: Hello Dolly Bars

12 Days of Christmas Baking Day 1: Hello Dolly Bars

December 5, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

I'm so excited to finally get back to cooking (and baking!) this week!

We're starting a new 12 Days of Christmas Baking series (you can download your grocery list and cookbook HERE), where I'll be making a yummy Christmas treat 6 days a week over on Facebook Live, then sharing it here.

christmasbaking1

Because my poor family was pitiful in November since I pretty much banned cooking after Crocktober (eek!), I decided to try to go ahead and get dinner done too this morning. Here's what I made today:

I'd love for you to join me, and can't wait to spend this month taking care of our families and friends while we prepare for Christmas! If you're making any yummy recipes this month I'd love for you to share those too ! leave a comment to share.

Homemade Peach Ice Cream

August 31, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

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Note from Laurie: My friend Cheryl made this homemade peach ice cream, and it looks divine (and good for you too ~ yum!)

Hand picked peaches in the south (or anywhere) are soooooo good! There is an orchard close to our home so we decided to go and pick some peaches for the first time ever.

I was searching for a healthier recipe for peaches when this one for Peach Ice Cream popped up and I knew we had to try it.

I'm SO … so … so glad we did!

Here's what you'll need to get started.

Gather up your ingredients and peel and slice your peaches. The riper the peaches, the easier they are to peel.

Once you have your peaches peeled and sliced, pop them into a food processor or blender until they are finely chopped. My little one loves peaches almost as much as cupcakes and couldn't wait to help.

Mix the remaining ingredients into a large bowl.

Pour all that into your ice cream maker (this was a splurge Christmas present from last year and we have really enjoyed using it!)

Once it's done you can eat it right out of the ice cream maker and store any remaining in the freezer for up to two weeks. Enjoy!!

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Homemade Peach Ice Cream

Ingredients

3 cups ripe peaches, sliced and peeled

1 cup fat free half and half

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Blend the peaches in a food processor or blender until finely chopped. Put the peaches, half and half, sugar, milk and vanilla in a large bowl and mix well.
Put the entire mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer’s instructions. Freeze any leftovers and enjoy!

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Recipe adapted from Emily Bites.

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Peanut Butter Butterscotch Brownies

August 3, 2016 by Shannon Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

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If you're looking for a super flexible recipe to use up whatever's in your pantry, this is for you.

I add butterscotch, peanut butter and chocolate chips into mine, but you can take away any of the baking chips and it still turns out amazing!

It's my nine-year old daughters top five favorite desserts 🙂 and we sometimes add ice cream to it but it's really perfect all on its own. Yum!

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Peanut Butter Butterscotch Brownies

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups light brown sugar

1 cup of butter (2 sticks)

1/2 cup of granulated sugar

2 eggs

2 teaspoons of vanilla extract

2 cups of all purpose flour

1 teaspoon of salt

2 cups of butterscotch, peanut butter and chocolate chips (you can decide how much of them to equal 2 cups)

1/4 teaspoon of shortening (use shortening do not substitute this one)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350. Grease 15-1/2×10-1/2×1 in jelly roll pan (I had no idea what this was but head over HERE for an idea)

2. Stir together brown sugar, butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl; beat in eggs and vanilla. Add flour and salt just until blended. (try not to over mix). Set aside 2 tablespoons of each of the baking chips of your choice. Stir in the remaining chips in the batter.

3. Spread the batter in the pan

4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely.

5. Place remaining 2 tablespoons of each of the baking chips and shortening in a small microwave bowl. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, stir until smooth. Drizzle over bars.

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Recipe adapted from Hershey's Kitchen.

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Oreo Stripe Delight

July 20, 2016 by Shannon Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

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Note from Laurie: Shannon made this recipe to share this week, and oh my stars it looks just amazing! If you need a chocolate fix this summer, this one's for you. 🙂

Oreo Stripe Delight is SUPER easy and tastes just amazing! It's perfect to take to a potluck or any family function. We made this the other night with company and they asked to take some home . . . it's that good. 🙂

I love all the layers and this dessert really comes together so easily, your kids will want to help out with this one.

Here's what you'll need . . .

Oreo Stripe Delight

PRINT RECIPE

Ingredients

35 Oreo Cookies
6 tablespoons of butter
1 package cream cheese softened
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons of cold milk
1 tub of Cool Whip
2 packages Jell-O Chocolate Instant Pudding
3 1/4 cup of cold milk

Directions

Place Oreo Cookies in a food processor blend until finely crushed. Transfer to medium bowl and mix in with the butter. Press into bottom of 13 x 9 inch dish. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk cream cheese, sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk in medium bowl until blended. Stir in 1 1/4 cups of the Cool Whip and spread onto the crust.
Beat pudding mixes and 3 1/4 cups milk with whisk for 2 minutes and let stand 5 minutes until thickened. Pour the pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer and refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
Right before serving, cover with the remaining cool whip and enjoy!

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Recipe adapted from KraftFoods.com!

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Golden Oreo Strawberry & Cream Icebox Cake

July 2, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Golden Oreo Strawberry & Cream Icebox Cake

Looking for a yummy 4th of July treat? We made tried out this recipe from Life, Love and Sugar, and goodness gracious, it was fantastic. This Red Velvet Ice Cream looks amazing too ~ so many great recipes for the 4th!

Ingredients

2 – 3.4 oz packages cheesecake flavored pudding
4 1/2 cups (1080 ml) milk, divided
2 – 15.25 oz boxes golden Oreos
1 lb package strawberries, sliced
1 pint blueberries
12 oz Cool Whip

Make the cheesecake flavored puddings according to package directions (use 4 cups of the milk).

Put remaining 1/2 cup of milk into a small bowl – dip Oreos in milk quickly and place into the bottom of a 9×13 pan in a single layer.

Spread half of the cheesecake pudding on top of the Oreos.

Add a single layer of strawberry slices on top of the pudding.

Spread half of the Cool Whip on top of the strawberries.

Dip the Oreos in milk quickly and place on top of the Cool Whip in a single layer.

Top Oreos with the rest of the cheesecake pudding.

Add a layer of blueberries, save about 1/3 cup for the topping.

Top with Cool Whip.

Decorate the top of the cake with the strawberry slices and blueberries.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Ingredients

2 – 3.4 oz packages cheesecake flavored pudding
4 1/2 cups (1080 ml) milk, divided
2 – 15.25 oz boxes golden Oreos
1 lb package strawberries, sliced
1 pint blueberries
12 oz Cool Whip

Directions

Mix cheesecake puddings according to package directions (use 4 cups of the milk).
Place remaining 1/2 cup of milk into a small bowl. Quickly dip Oreos in milk and layer in bottom of a 9×13 pan.
Spread half of the cheesecake pudding over Oreos.
Add a single layer of strawberry slices on top of the pudding.
Layer half of the Cool Whip on top of the strawberries.
Dip Oreos in milk quickly and place on top of the Cool Whip in a single layer.
Top Oreos with remaining cheesecake pudding.
Add a layer of blueberries, saving 1/3 cup for the topping.
Top with Cool Whip.
Layer the top of the cake with the strawberry slices and blueberries.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight.

We also made these super cute fruit kabobs to go along with dessert ~ the kids loved helping me make these and devoured each and every one of them. 🙂

Looking for more things to make this 4th of July? Check out these 10 Easy 4th of July Dessert Recipes ~ Happy Independence Day!

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S’more Cones

June 29, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

I've seen this idea for S'more cones all over the internet this summer, so finally we had to try them out!

Since Kroger's Mega sale included a few deals on candy this week, we stocked up and then got our supplies together.

All you need is foil,

cones,

toppings (we used Rolo and Reese's bites),

and marshmallows.

Fill them up . . .

and bake in oven at 350 for 5-7 minutes.

Success!

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Ingredients

Aluminum Foil
Ice Cream Cones
Marshmallows
Toppings: we used chocolate chips, Rolo bites, and Reese's bites

Directions

Fill cone with a mixture of half marshmallows and half toppings
Wrap cones tightly with foil
Bake at 350 for 5-7 minutes (can also grill for 5-10 minutes on grill)
Enjoy!

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Strawberry Salsa

June 15, 2016 by Laurie Leave a Comment This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

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A friend of mine mentioned this recipe for strawberry salsa, and I'm so glad she did! Since strawberries are in season here and have been priced so well, I loved trying out a new way to use them.

My favorite strawberry recipe is still this strawberry pie, but this is a fun twist to serve at a get together. And, since fruit is so inexpensive while it's in season, it's a great way to take advantage of some great sales out there! Here's the recipe so you can try it out too.

I love all the fresh ingredients and it just looks SO pretty!

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STRAWBERRY SALSA

INGREDIENTS

2 kiwis, peeled and diced
2 Golden Delicious apples – peeled, cored and diced
8 ounces raspberries
1 pound strawberries diced
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
3 tablespoons strawberry fruit preserves
10 (10 inch) flour tortillas
butter flavored cooking spray
2 tablespoons of cinnamon sugar

DIRECTIONS

In a large bowl mix kiwis, apples, raspberries, strawberries, white sugar, brown sugar and fruit preserves. Cover and chill in the refrigerator.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Coat one side of flour tortillas with butter flavored cooking spray. Cut tortillas into wedges and place on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle wedges with cinnamon sugar. Spray again with cooking spray.
Bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes and allow to cool. Serve with the salsa and enjoy!

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Recipe adapted from All Recipes.

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Free Printable Recipe Cards

June 1, 2016 by Laurie 5 Comments This post may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on a link and purchase something, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you.) See my disclosure policy HERE.

Free Printable Recipe Cards

I'm so excited about this! My friend Cheryl put together these completely free recipe cards of our family's absolute favorite treat recipes for you to enjoy.

These are the recipes that I get asked for every time we host a get together, and I promise you'll love them. They really are the best chocolate chip cookies and chocolate cake you will EVER make, and now you can have them on a cute printed card for the next time you need a treat!