White Chocolate Cream Cheese Fudge

"Oh Fudddgggeeee"

Yep, I said it.  Youi know it is our famiies favorite holiday movie and my husbands dog is named after Ralph.  Yes it is true, his best little buddy is named Ralph (Ralphy)!

Can I tell you this recipe was a happy accident?  I was look at a recipe by 12 Tomatoes.  I didn't screenshot the ingredients and had closed the tab, so I took a guess at how much I needed of what.  WRONG.  I came up 2 bags of something short, one of this short, and blah blah blah.  So, I used what I had at home, and got this amazing fudge recipe.  I mean it is AHMAZING.  If you love cream cheese and/or white chocolate this one's for you!

You Will Need:

2- 14oz bags of white chocolate chips

1- 8oz brick of cream cheese

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 cup powdered/confectioners/icing sugar

1 TBSP half and half or heavy cream

Semi-sweet chocolate OPTIONAL

Beat cream cheese for 3 minutes until light and fluffy.  Melt white chocolate in 30 second increments in your microwave until all melted.   Add to your cream cheese mixture.  Mix to combine with your hand mixer. Add in vanilla, and powdered sugar.  Again, combine ingredients.  Add in half and half and mix until completely combined.

In a parchment paper lined 8x8 inch pan, pour the mixture.  It is a different texture and needs spread out.  You can wet the utensil you are using or use another piece of parchment on top and use your hands to smooth.  Let sit for at least 4 hours, overnight is best.

OPTIONAL.....Melt 1/3d cup of semi-sweet chocolate and drizzle on tiop.  Use 1 cup and spread a layer of chocolate on top.

Pineapple Cream Cheese

Once upon a time, when I was young, carefree, and fun.... (HAHA)  I worked for Dana, my dear friend who owned a coffee house in my small town.  After mastering the art of coffee, I mastered the goodness of pineapple cream cheese on blueberry bagels.  If you have never tried it, please do.  This recipe is supper easy, and with the little bite and texture of pineapple I think it is absolutely amazing.  It is one of my favorite treats, on its best day ever!

Make sure to save your drained pineapple juice, mix it with orange juice or drink it alone or use it in something!  In the video, I used 2 TBSP of powdered sugar but you can use up to 4.  I tend to go with 4, but I used 2, and it was really plenty to be honest.

I have been making this for a little while, but had to nail it down to a recipe of proper measurements.  That completely stresses me out!  I do it because I LOVE YA!

I think this would be a perfect make ahead spread for bagels for a brunch or breakfast, or anytime really.  I imagine some graham cracker sticks or Vanilla Wafers might like to jump into this bowl of goodness and then into your mouth too!

Here we go!

1- 8oz pkg cream cheese
1/2 cup drained, crushed pineapple
2-4 T powdered sugar (icing sugar, confectioners sugar)
1 tsp vanilla extract

Throw it all in a bowl and using a hand mixer, let her rip.  I like to whip this on high for at least 1 minutes to incorporate some air to keep it spreadable for a long time!  Refrigerate whatever you don't use....as if.....and finish it at night when everyone else is sleeping.

ENJOY!

Earthquake Cake

Happy Fall Ya'll!!!  If you have been around awhile you know I use any chance I get to say "ya'll"!  OK, admittedly, it is on a sign I have hanging up on my patio so it might not have been an original thought.  In fact, that will be a common theme in this recipe post!

I am not the creator/inventor/developer/goddess of this recipe.  I do believe it has been around quite some time.  I wanted to give it a try.  In researching this recipe, I found about as many versions as there are people who make it.  Just wait until I share another version I found!  Seriously!  I think this could be a rather interesting, and tasty journey!

It is called earthquake cake because of the cracks that form in the top while baking.  But, can I be honest?  Lots that I saw photos of, had no cracks.  The truth is, I don't really think it matters much.  What matters is getting a piece on a plate and wrapping your lips around that fork and throwin' it back!  This cake needs no icing.  It is so decadent, and rich.  SORT of, kinda, maybe a tiny bit reminiscent of a German chocolate cake at the bottom! 

I think you should also have a glass of wine.  I think I am going to start ending all of my blog posts with that.  "Should be consumed with wine".  What do you think?

Here it is!  Check out the video too!  Make sure to.... Crap, let me find my manners.  I would LOVE if you would subscribe to my YT channel!  Thumbs ups, comments, sharing the videos, all help me grow!

Let's do it!

1 box German chocolate cake mix
1 cup water
1/2 cup oil
3 eggs
(or the measurements listed on your box)
1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
1 1/4 cups milk chocolate chips (another 1/4 cup for later) If you want to use semi sweet or dark chocolate that is fine.
1 8 oz block of cream cheese
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (confections sugar, icing sugar)

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.  Spray a 9x13 pan with nonstick spray and sprinkle the coconut and 1 cup chocolate chips in the bottom, set aside.

In a bowl, prepare the German chocolate cake mix according to package directions.   Pour evenly over the top of the coconut and chocolate chips.  Set aside

In a small saucepan melt the cream cheese and butter.  When it is melted, remove and pour into a large bowl (or use a large saucepan) and add in your powdered sugar.  Whisk or mix to combine.  Dollop this mixture all over the top of the chocolate cake mix.  Use a knife to swirl it with the chocolate cake mix.  No need to go cray=zay, just do it a little bit and call it good.  Sprinkle the last 1/4 cup of chocolate chips on top and bake for 40-45 minutes.  When you take it out, it should be a little bit jiggly in the center.  No worries, cool it completely and dig in! 

So good, you don't even need frosting!  I mean, whipped cream or ice cream would be great, but, I don't want to be responsible for anyone's bad decisions. 

Blueberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast

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Ok, just haven't put all that info in a post lately so now, about this Blueberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast!  YES!  It IS awesome!

Hubby had made a request, and much to my surprise, what I made was completely different than what he was requesting but we both decided it was so good, (as did my daughter in law) that I wanted to share it with you.  This would be an awesome breakfast, brunch or even dessert dish!  It is easy and can be baked, refrigerated and eaten cold or reheated!

Here is what you will need!

12 (ish) slices of Texas Toast (the fresh stuff, no garlic toast, no frozen, fresh, or you can use a loaf of bread  you slice very thick.

For the FILLING you will need:
12 oz. cream cheese
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries

Custard:
5 eggs
2 cups milk
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.  Butter or grease a 9x13 baking pan.  Take a knife and make a slit in the side of your bread about halfway through.  It is easier if your bread is cold or even frozen!  Do this to all of your slices.  Put aside and prepare the cheesecake filling.

Add on FILLING ingredients together and with a hand mixer, mix until combined.  You can leave out a few of the blueberries to fold in whole, or just add them all in the mixture.  Divide between all the slices of bread and fill up the pocket you created.

Now prepare the CUSTARD.  Again, combine all ingredients and beat until combined, and frothy.  Pour over your pan of stuffed french toast evenly.  It won't come above the bread probably.  No worries, just pour over and it will be fine!

Let sit just a couple of minutes and bake for 35-45 minutes.  Let cook for 10 minutes!

I sprinkled mine with some powdered sugar and served!  You get a cheesecakey side and a bread pudding side and the tops are a little crisp like french toast.  (DROOL)

ENJOY!

Lime Cheesecake Dip

As I sit here writing..........  the same 3 neighborhood dogs have been "talking" to each other going on about 5 hours.  I love dogs, I love dogs more than most people, but for the love of the dog pound, can we get these things to SHUT UP?!?!

I had to get it out to someone, and you guys were here.  And so it goes!

I don't know about you, but when I get asked to bring "something", "somewhere" last minute, I panic.  I seriously have 50 things in my arsenal that are for situations just like these, so why do I panic?  "Have I taken this before"?  :Will anybody like it"?  "Do I have all the ingredients".  Those kind of thoughts run through my head.  Because let me tell you something, I dislike going to the store.  I want to make the list, and have an expert pick my items up and deliver, then I need someone else to put them away.  Again, distracted.  UGH these dogs!

Here is a simple, 4 ingredient dip, that you can whip up in ohhh....let's say 3 minutes, if you have to plug in your hand mixer.  Please, serve it with some honey graham sticks, they are the perfect balance.   OR, you could do nilla wafers, or, whatever tickles your fancy.

2, 8oz bricks of cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 lime, juiced and zested
1 tsp vanilla extract

Add all ingredients to a bowl and get at it with your hand mixer.  Mix until creamy and smooth. Refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving, longer is better.

SEE!  Now, get your things together and get off to where you are taking this to, and throw kisses to your public as they swoon over your dip!

ENJOY!

Easy Fruit Dip

 HAPPY NEW YEAR friends!  Oh what a year.  WHAT a year.  It was the worst of times and it was the best of times.  For my family it was a year of extreme lows, yet extreme healing, and love.  We pray that you all found something amazing you can take with you into the new year and grow upon. We wish you a year of precious moments, prosperity, good health, and happy relationships.

This New Year's Eve we spent with our kids.  We ordered pizza, we laughed, we told stories, we played with the grand babies, and just enjoyed family time.  We made lots of dips and snacks and just ate our way into the new year!!  It was a blast!  I am blessed to have a son and daughter in law who welcome us into their home every single chance they get, and we love them dearly.

Last night we made 3 Layer Chili Dip, and Fiesta Taco Dip last night as well as my fruit dip.  
I hope that you enjoyed your time, either with family, friends or alone, as I sometimes like to spend my New Year's Eve.  This dip will hit just the spot, especially with apples and strawberries, the only fruit I will lay my lips on!  Oh wait, AND pineapple, why didn't I pick up pineapple!!?!

I know many people have an aversion to cool whip if you do, feel free to just use 1/2 cup heavy cream, and whip it about half way before adding the rest of the ingredients!

12 oz cream cheese (at room temperature)
1, 8 oz. container of cool whip
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients in a bowl, using a hand mixer for about 3-4 minutes.  You want your dip to be light, fluffy and smooth!  Transfer into a serving dish, bring on the fruit, and dip, dip, dip!

ENJOY!!

Sausage and Cheese Breakfast DIp

 I always start these notes off the same way.  I need a new introduction.  Good evening, I will start with that tonight!  I hope you are all anticipating your kids going back to school, here, school starts tomorrow.  School shopping done?  Get those supply lists and get to shopping!  I miss those days, although I always do a little shopping for Maddie my oldest grand little and send it to her.  We get to shop together this year since she is here, but, sadly will be leaving in about 10 days to go home to NJ.  WHY did I even bring that up?  I am going to be sad beyond sad to say goodbye to her but I know she is happy, healthy, and full of joy and what more can you ask for them?  Anyway we will do some shopping soon and send her off with it all!

I have had this breakfast casserole running through my brain for a good 2 months now.  I tried to make it really difficult and different, and the reality is, none of that made it better.  I stuck to some old standbys that everyone usually has on hand and it turned out perfectly.  I mean, like REALLY freakishly delicious and I would never argue with freakishly delicious!  Serve this with little toasts, OR.......add some salsa to the cream cheese mixture and serve with tortillas!  Umm-hmmm....  GENIUS, my sentiments exactly.  I will make it for my darling Geo that way next time.  He will think he is in heaven.  As if being married to me isn't heaven in and of itself.  Pfftt.

Enjoy this easy, quick make ahead dip, that you can serve for any breakfast or brunch.  I don't know anyone who wouldn't love "chips" and dip for breakfast!

1 lb. ground pork sausage, browned and drained (yes, use turkey sausage if you want!)
2- 8 oz. blocks of cream cheese
1 T. chives
1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
cocktail bread, or unsplit hotdog buns, cut into little slices like bread

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.  In a bow combine, browned ground sausage, cream cheese, chives, and 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese.  Mix until completely combined.  Pour into a small casserole dish, I used about a 9 inch one and it was perfect.  Sprinkle the rest of the grated cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top.

Pop it in the oven for 20-30 minutes.  Let it get bubbly and the cheese melted.  I can't say "bubbly" with thinking of Steel Magnoilia's "gooold and bubblah".  Anyway...

After you have sliced your bread or gotten your cocktail loaf out, just place it on a baking sheet in a single layer and put under your broiler for a minute or 2, flip and do the same.  Just get it golden and crispy.  You can certainly just use plain toast cut into triangles.

This can EASILY be made the night before and popped in the oven in the morning.  Breakfast dip.....does it get better?!

ENJOY!

Strawberries and Cream Crepe Cake

I have such a love/hate relationship with summer.  Do you?  I hate the heat, I love the heat.  I hate mosquitos, I hate bugs, but I love being outside.  I guess I'm a girl who can't be pleased or something.  One thing I DO love about summer most is fresh fruits and veggies.  Though I haven't ever grown strawberries, we have a few farms around here to go pick them at.  My sister did recently and I knew, when I tasted the jelly, it NEEDED to become part of a recipe.  And what is better in summer than anytime of the year?  Strawberry shortcake, of course!  Well, I figured most everyone knew how to make that, and I have been hungry for crepes, so here you go.  The marriage, as I see it, of the two delicious dishes!

This is a very easy dessert.  I think you could technically eat it for breakfast or brunch, maybe supper, oh let's be real, you will want it at midnight too!  You will probably use store bought jelly or jam and that is perfectly fine.  But please don't buy store bought crepes.  My heart won't be able to handle it.  You can go to my recipe for Nutella Cream Crepes and do a couple of things that I will list with the recipe.  Make those Nutella Cream Crepes while you are at it.  And roll that "R" for me baby.  HA! 

NOTE: My crepes appear a bit thick, they are.  I used my 6 inch nonstick skillet that I use only for crepes for this recipe.  Ideally, you will use an 8-9 inch pan for yours.  My cake served 4 very well, yours might serve a couple of more, or leave more for you to eat at midnight.

Here is what you are going to need to make the 3 different components that you will need to make this light, and delicious recipe.

You will need :
a double recipe of my crepe recipe and to this recipe, you will add 1 tsp. vanilla extract.  Make your crepes, and set aside to cool.

Vanilla Cream Filling
8 oz. cream cheese
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract or paste
1 individual cup of vanilla pudding or 1/3 cup if you are measuring it from regular size batch

Add all ingredients in a bowl and using your hand mixer, mix until well combined, then turn to high and beat for 1-2 minutes. 

Strawberry Filling
1/2-3/4 cup strawberry jelly
1-2 T. hot water

Mix together and microwave for 30 seconds, to loosen the jelly and make it a bit thinner. 

Now, here is how it goes...

First get your jelly/jam and vanilla cream together...

Then pull over your crepes...

Now, lay a crepe on a plate and top with a THIN layer of cream...

Top with another crepe and spread with strawberry jam...

Rinse and repeat until you have stacked all of your crepes.  I don't recall how many my double recipe made of the 6 inch but it will make a few less of the 8 or 9 inch.  No worries, your cake will still be perfect.

When you are done, refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.  If you are doing this with any other fillings I don't think it needa chilled, but with the jam it does.  Do not make this HOURS in advance. (You can make your crepes way in advance just not the whole cake)  You pretty much want to eat it as soon as it is chilled.  It ROCKS!

 

That is it.  Simple, isn't it?  I hope your enjoy it and make it soon!  Be creative with your fillings too!  Post your photos on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.  Use the hashtag #chefwannabesfood !

ENJOY!



3 Layer Chili Dip

Who is gearing up for the SUPER BOWL?  Not me, and as far as I can tell it will be a long time before my Eagles are in the running again.  Unhappy camper, can you tell? 

I know so many of you are planning big parties, lots of friends, family, food and drink, (please do NOT forget the drinks).  Do you ask everyone to bring something or do you do all the food prep yourself? This is a really easy dip that my son made a couple of months ago when we went over to watch an Eagles game.  He said someone he knew in Georgia  (where he was stationed) had made it and he loved it so he had made it ever since.  I am sure it isn't a new recipe, it is to easy and good for it to have not been around the block a few times!! 

It is delicious, it literally takes 5 minutes to put together and 25 minutes in the oven to to warm up.  I like to serve it with Frito Scoops, but tortillas are awesome as well.  Do what makes you happy!!

GOOD LUCK to your team!! 

You will need:
2, 8oz. blocks of cream cheese
2 cans of chili with no beans
2 cups grated cheddar cheese

In a square or round baking dish or pie dish, spread out the cream cheese in an even layer.  Easy enough, right

 

Next, pour in both cans of chili and spread evenly as well.  I somehow, did NOT photograph this step.  I am sure you can handle it though! HA!  Then add the grated cheddar on top and this is what you will pop in the oven at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes until it is bubbly!

 

Serve up with your favorite chips.  Grab a cold one and enjoy the game!  I...will be shopping!

ENJOY!!

Chocolate Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies

ACK! 15 more days until Christmas!  Are you ready?  How are you doing on the shopping?  Are you at the "OMG I have no have to pay more than the price of the gift to get it shipped in time" phase yet?  I started wrapping last night.  We discussed, if you follow me on Facebook about how I am about that kind of thing.  Yikes.  But I enjoy soft lights, Christmas music and beautifully wrapping the gifts we have chosen for those we love.  It is relaxing, and my husband always says I should start a gift wrapping business at the holidays!

I did get in the kitchen yesterday and get these wonderful treats made.  They are a favorite in our family, and I wanted to make sure to share the really special treats we love with you this year.  It is a really busy time and developing new recipes this time of year, (which actually started 2 months ago for me.  I am like retail!) I just want to enjoy the beauty of the season, the reason for the season, my family and friends and spending a lot of time developing anything new isn't in my game plan for this month, especially this year with my grandchildren now living in the same city.  They are our families Christmas miracles as they were born last Christmas Eve, 6 weeks early and yet, they have grown into beautiful, funny, healthy little monkeys who we can't imagine life without!  Though this isn't technically their first Christmas, it kind of is.

I have to share one of their Christmas photos with you!


These cookies are so good.  The chocolate flavor is rich, and though the actual cookies isn't super sweet, the addition of the white chocolate drizzle and crushed peppermint, makes it the perfect cookie.  When you see the amount of sugar you might say, "WHOA", but using the unsweetened chocolate, in addition makes the flavor so much richer.  It makes over 5 dozen cookies, don't worry, you won't consume it all at once! They are easy, the dough is beautiful, and they don't take long to bake or cool.  I think it would be fun to let the kids drizzle and sprinkle them with anything they like! 



Here is what you will need:
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup butter, softened
1 3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/8 tsp. salt
2 tsps. vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
4 oz. melted unsweetened chocolate (I used the already melted variety because I had it on hand)
1 cup white chocolate chips melted
crushed candy canes (how many is up to you)
You can use any other candy or decoration to sprinkle over the top as well it doesn't have to be peppermint!

In a large bowl or the bowl of your standing mixer, cream together, cream cheese, butter, sugar, salt and vanilla extract together until creamy.  Add in baking soda and mix well.  Start adding in  your flour and beat (stand or hand mixer) slowly at first, so you don't get covered in flour and add until it is all incorporated!  Now, pour in your melted unsweetened chocolate and let it mix until well combined. 

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.  Take a tablespoon size scoop or actual spoon and roll that amount into a ball. Next roll it into a long snake shape, you can do them as small or as big as you like, but the size I did, I got a nice size cookie, and ended up with over 5 dozen.  Shape them into a candy cane shape and place on parchment lined or non stick cooking spray, sprayed, cookie sheets.  I easily get 12 on a sheet, they don't spread a lot but they do spread a bit. 

Bake for 10 minutes.  That is the exact time that I find keeps them soft, even with the carry over cooking.  Place them on a cooling rack to cool!

Melt white chocolate in either a double boiler set up or in the microwave, 20 seconds at a time on half power.  Trust me, just trust me.  Place into a piping bag or Ziploc that you have cut the tip off of.  You can even just use a spoon or fork to drizzle.  While the white chocolate is still wet, sprinkle with your crushed peppermint candy or whatever you choose to sprinkle on them.  Let sit until the chocolate is set and enjoy!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Pumpkin Praline Cheesecake Bars

How can it already be this time of year?  I probably say this every single year, but, the older I get the older time seems to go.  My mom said it would, boy was she right. 

It is time to start thinking about and planning our Thanksgiving menus!  While I love changing a few things up every year, there are definitely dishes that are tradition that are NOT to be messed with.  Is it like that for you all as well?  If I ever omitted, baked mac and cheese, or coleslaw from a holiday meal, I would be disowned!  This year I am definitely looking forward to Thanksgiving, since our kids have moved here now!  We get to have a real holiday together!  WOOHOO!  I haven't been able to spend a Thanksgiving with my son for about 6 years.  We are just thrilled! 

With all that said, I have a pumpkin loving family.  I wanted something other than a plain pumpkin cheesecake, (however, they are one of my fav's).  I just decided to experiment and when it turned out, I had to test it a second time, I wasn't sure how it turned out this good, but, when I tried it for the 3rd time and my daughter in law informed me, "This is BOMB", I knew it was share worthy!  The texture is crazy awesome and the flavor, well, I mean come on, "pumpkin praline cheesecake".  Pffttt, delish.  I think it will be part of our Thanksgiving dessert table this year.  I hope you make it part of yours too!

OH!  I almost forgot.  The pan you will need...   I used about an 7x10 or something close to that.  A 9x13 will be to big, unless you double your cheesecake layer recipe.  A 9x9 should work nicely.  WHY did I use such an odd size?  I don't know either, but I did.  So just keep that in mind when picking what size to use!


1 yellow cake mix
3/4 cup melted butter
3/4 cup pumpkin puree
8 oz. cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
2 eggs
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 cup pecans
2 T-1/4 cup maple flavored pancake syrup or maple syrup

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.  In a bowl combine dry cake mix and melted butter. 

 

Press into the bottom of your pan evenly and bake for 15 minutes.  Remove and let cool while you mix up your filling.

Combine, pumpkin puree, cream cheese, eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.  Pour over crust.  Top with pecans, and then drizzle over your syrup.  Bake for 35-40 minutes, until almost set in the middle.  It will jiggle a wee bit.  Remove and let sit until it is room temperature.  Now chill for at LEAST 6 hours.  I think it is best chilled overnight.  Serve with a some sweetened whipped cream, or a small scoop of ice cream even!

MMMM-mmmm good!!

Turkey Stuffed Mini Pepper Poppers

Peppers, peppers, peppers.  I seem to have an overabundance.  Let me explain why that is an issue.  I have a love/hate relationship with peppers.  I love them raw.  I love the flavor, the crunch, and the freshness of them.  However, once they hit the heat, they get soft, maybe even a tiny bit slimy, and I just am in a weird place with them, once that has happened.  Stuffed peppers, YUM, except I only eat the middle out of the pepper.  Now, if they are chopped up, we have a whole new situation.  I mean, who is really THAT picky?!  Isn't it like being a person who only like corn ON the cob and not off?  Ridiculousness. 

 

That all being said, and explained, I love these.  I had intended to use jalapeno's with these, however, when the little sweet bells presented themselves, I knew for the crowd I was cooking for, they would be the best choice.  I wanted a hearty filling, one that could be used for a side dish, a light lunch with a salad, or even an appetizer.  A few of them were so small, I admittedly just popped them down the hatch, full throttle.   I am positive these would do great on your bbq grill too!

You will need:

1lbs sweet mini bell peppers (14-16)
1/2 lb.. ground turkey
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. onion powder
4 oz. cream cheese
3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.  Cut the very tops off of your peppers and using an ice tea spoon or small dessert spoon, clean out the seeds and veins as best you can.  Set on a baking sheet.  Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl and spoon into a piping bag, or Ziploc bag with the corner snipped off or use the ice tea spoon to get these filled.  I used a piping bag, it was so quick, clean and easy.  Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked all the way through.  Let these sit about 5 minutes before eating. 

MMMMMM....mmmmmmmmmmmmm........GOOD!

Banana Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Brown Sugar Frosting

Once again, I apologize for this spotty, at best posting schedule.  My parents need raised, my grandchildren moved to town, and my sister from Cinci was here for a week, and, and, and....   I swear when September hits, I will be back on schedule.  I appreciate all of you who have stuck around and continue to support me here, and on social media!  Make sure to join me on those if you haven't!  I love your comments here on the website, please keep them coming!

So, back to the raising of my parents.  Pffftt.  My mother has the audacity, after raising 10 kids, and living 81 years, to have an OPINION!  Can you believe it?!?  I spent a week, a couple of weeks ago and needed to run for some groceries.  My mom needed her bananas, for her ritual cereal and banana breakfasts.  She sent me with a list and as I perused the produce section, which by the way in my hometown grocery store is like the size of your living room, I saw a bargain bin!  YES!  An entire bag of bananas for .69!  I nabbed them up, continued my shopping and headed for home.  When I walked in with my finds, my mom gives me this "look".  It was a look I have seen often, one of disappointment and, oh wait, let me clarify I never actually did anything to get that look in my younger days.  Do you believe me?  Anyway I got this, "Chhhrriisssss, those bananas are way over ripe".  Excuse me Marlene?  I can remember a day, she would have just cut out the dark spots, saved them and used them for banana bread and eaten or fed us the rest of the banana.  Kids are grown, and diva queen wants her bananas a little "green"?!?  (for anyone who at this point thinks I am serious, please know, in my family, we tease, we laugh and we joke, I adore my mother and she deserves whatever she wants!) 

So the point is, I took my bag O' bananas and I brought them home.  Hmmppfff.  This cake was born from them and I think you will agree, she can keep her GREEN bananas!  Overripe ones always turn into something amazing too!

Don't ask how I know this, but this cake freezes like a dream and I kind of liked eating a piece half frozen!

2 cups flour (all purpose)
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 cup softened butter
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
3 very ripe bananas, mushed to perfection
1 box instant vanilla pudding

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Spray a 9x13 pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.  Combine all ingredients EXCEPT flour.  When all ingredients are well combined, add in flour just until mixed.  Pour into prepared cake pan and bake 40-50 minutes.  When a toothpick comes out clean it is done!  Let cool completely.  Using the round handle of a spoon or whatever else you can find with a round end, (I shutter at what people might use), poke holes all over the cake.   Prepare pudding per package directions and slowly pour over the cake.  Refrigerate for 15 minutes while you prepare the frosting!

Cream Cheese Brown Sugar Frosting
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
3 T butter, softened
1-2 T milk.

Combine, cream cheese, vanilla, brown sugar and butter.  Beat for 3-4 minutes, until creamy and smooth.  Add in milk according to how you like your frosting.  Less milk for stiffer, more for thinner.  Spread over cake and sprinkle with nuts of your choice, IF you choose!  Enjoy!

Chipped Beef Dip

It is finally Spring, it is finally getting to be backyard BBQ, backyard sittin' weather!  Can I get an "AMEN"?  Friends, family and neighbors.......good times!

I find that many times during this time of year, you have people stop by, or call on short notice, which hey...nobody needs to call at my house, you just come over, no time is a bad time for friends or family, that is our philosophy!  But sometimes you need to throw some chips and dip or picky food together quick to go with a cold beer, or a big glass of your favorite cold drink!  This recipe is perfect for just those times!  Of course it is perfect for anytime but it is so easy, takes hardly any ingredients and there is no bake time, just some chill time and honestly if you HAD to, you could serve it 10 minutes after you make it.  I mean, that is just the truth.  I find that we like it chilled first.  Just personal preference again.

So get going, make sure to read the note below before you run to the store and make this.  Chow down while you watch your favorite shows, throw back a cold one, or are enjoying good conversation with friends and family!


2- 8oz. bricks of cream cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
1 1/2 tsp. onion powder
2-4 tbsp. milk (add more if you like a looser dip)
2.5 (up to about 3.5) ounces dried beef  (see note below)
1-2 tbsp. chopped parsley

Let your cream cheese come to room temperature.  While it is doing that, cut your dried beef into small pieces.  Place beef into a skillet and on LOW HEAT let it crisp up just a bit.  It will burn very easy so you "cook everything on highers" beware!  When it has warmed up and gone as far as you want it to go, let it cool.  Add sour cream, cooled dried beef, onion powder, 2 tbsp. milk, and parsley to cream cheese, Using a hand mixer, beat until all creamy and combined.  You may or may not need the extra tablespoon or 2 of milk, the consistency is your preference and 2 tbsps. was perfect for me.  Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

NOTE: The minimum amount of dried beef you should use is a 2.5 ounce jar. I found that I wanted more than that so I used more, but remember, it Will AFFECT the saltiness of your dip.  So however you want it, it up to you!  If you rinse your dried beef under cold water for a couple of minutes it will get rid of some of the salt!

I served mine with Ritz crackers but that is up to you.  Small crostini would be good too!

Enjoy this simple and delicious dip when you need a quick appetizer or snack!

B-E-A-UTIFUL Butterscotch Cupcakes

I am on a mission.  You see, I just cleaned out, organized and purged some of my blogging supplies and props, etc.  Do you know, I came across an entire container of cupcake papers I never even remembered I had?  I have this sick addiction to buying them.  I mean, it is like a SICKNESS!   When I say a "container" I mean a plastic box, twice the size of a shoe box.  Which makes 3 containers in total!  I found some cute Easter looking ones and set out to think up some amazing cupcake I had never made or thought of.  As it turns out, I didn't need to come up with anything, except my frosting. 

You won't believe where I got this recipe.   I got it at a card store!  I did!  I was out shopping with my sister and she was buying some boxed cards.  One of the boxes she got had recipes on the inside of each card.  SCORE!  I was looking through them and when I spotted this one, I HAD to make it. 

The cupcakes are so good on their own, you wouldn't even NEED the frosting, BUT, if you think for one stinking' minute I am not going to frost a cupcake, you are sadly mistaken!  I mean, complete sacrilege there!   If I can't have a mountain of billowy, fluffy, delicious frosting, you can keep the cupcakes!

I did change this recipe just a hair, simply because I thought it would be better with just one flavor.  I will post the frosting recipe at the end.  Now, I processed my chips in my mini chopper, if you want to just put them in whole that is up to you, but I guarantee when you chop them up a bit, they are even better in this frosting!

You WILL need a box mix for this one.  You can not make THIS recipe from scratch.  So here we go! 

1 box of white cake mix, your choice of brands
1 box of instant butterscotch pudding
1 cup milk
3 eggs
1 cup butterscotch chips (keep the leftover you will need them for the frosting)

In a small bowl, combine the pudding and milk, whisk until combined and set aside.  Add the 3 eggs to a large bowl, whisk and then add in dry cake mix.  It will be thick.  Combine as best you can and then add in the already prepared pudding.  Mix to combine.  Fold in the chips at the very end.  Keep these chips whole, do not chop.

Preheat your oven to 350 and line your cupcake pans with liners.  This will yield 24 cupcakes.  Do not overfill, if you end up with a few that aren't full, take some out of the others, they will raise a lot, so don't fret it.  Just make sure to get 24.  Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of one comes out clean.  Set aside to cool.

Butterscotch Frosting
1/2 cup softened butter
1-8oz brick of cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tbsp. milk *may use more or less*
butterscotch chips (the remaining amount from your bag of chips)

Chip your chips until they are in smaller pieces.  You can use a knife, or a small food chopper, food processor, whatever you have available.  In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until smooth and creamy.  You may need more or a wee bit less of the milk, it is just dependent on how you like the consistency of your frosting.  Frost your cupcakes however you choose, pipe it, spread it, or dollop it!  This frosting is creamy and has little bits of butterscotch chips in it and oh my, it is fantastic!

I hope you love these butterscotch lovers dream!

Warm Chicken Salad (giveaway closed) NEW WINNER PICKED

Good evening foodie family!  First things first.  50,000 Facebook fans?!?!  Are you KIDDING?  Awesomeness.  Thank you!  I thank you for your kind and positive comments, sharing the recipes you think look great, telling your friends about Chefwannabe, and just being great friends.  Yes, I consider all of you friends, like my foodie family!  I can't tell you enough, how important you are.  So keep reading for some fun at the end of this post.  Now, for the recipe......

Quite possibly one of the most VERSATILE dishes you could have in your recipe collection!  Undoubtedly so actually. 

When I thought up this recipe, it was completely from memory.  I ate this once, literally 12 years ago and never got the recipe.  I didn't figure it could be to hard to replicate so I went for it and came out with this fantastic dish.  You could serve this as an appetizer OR as a main dish and here is how. 

Appetizer, serve with crackers or crostini, keep knives nearby, cut the chicken VERY small and use as a hot dip.  DELISH. 

Main Dish, serve with bigger chunks of chicken, and put it over some rice, or egg noodles, a side salad and a veggie.   Leave out the breadcrumbs and serve it hot on a crusty roll!

See what I mean?  It is rich, I won't lie, but that is why I suggested serving with noodles, rice, or crackers, etc.  I love a good versatile recipe and I think I have given you one with this dish.  Let's get started.  It will take you only a few minutes to put together.

2 lbs cooked chicken, cubed
1/2 cup of celery, diced small
1 small can water chestnuts, chopped
1/4-1/2 cup slivered or sliced almonds
6 ounces cream cheese, room temp
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayo/salad dressing
1 cup shredded cheese of choice (I used cheddar) divided
/4 cup breadcrumbs
salt and pepper to taste

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.  In a large mixing bowl, mix together, chicken, celery, water chestnuts, almonds, cream cheese, sour cream, mayo/salad dressing, 1/4 cup of shredded cheese and salt and pepper.  Combine all ingredients well and place into a casserole dish you have sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.  I used a deep dish round casserole, just use what you think will work for you.  Top with the rest of the cheese and breadcrumbs.  Bake for 25-35 minutes depending on your casserole size.  You are looking for melty cheese and completely heated all the way through. 

 

50,000 GIVEAWAY!

Now for my surprise.  As you all know I spent a few weeks with family in NJ and PA. I had time to do some shopping at a couple of my favorite stores, Ikea, and The Christmas Tree Shoppe.  Before Facebook made recent changes I expected to hit 50k early in December so some of my shopping included a few Christmas items.  Well, as luck would have it we didn't get there until recently.  So I am giving away a little box of goodies from both stores.  Just a little thank you for all of your support.  I am not telling you what it is it, because they were to be little surprise Christmas gifts so I am keeping that part the same!  I wish it were a huge luxurious gift package, instead it is some of my favorite things, that make cooking fun for me and I hope they do for you as well. The entry form is below, you have 5 ways to enter, so get all 5 of your entries!!  You have until Friday at 9pm CST to enter!

Your "love to share" Chefwannabe

 

DANIELLE TAFT-WINNER 

I just emailed you. Please respond within 48 hours!

Entry-Form

Jalapeno Pepper Corn Dip

Good evening my fellow chefwannabes!  Hoping this finds you all happy and doing well!! 

Who doesn't need dip recipes?  EASY dip recipes?  Fast dip recipes?  Tis' the season for parties and celebrations and get togethers!  This dip is so easy, it tastes almost like a jalapeno popper!  I think you could easily serve it with a small loaf of toasted bread.  I know that I appreciate being able to take something to a party or have someone else bring something that is hot and can just stay in a slow cooker and keep warm. 

I know in my family the "pickys" are one of the best parts of the holiday season!  We are pickers, and a day of all picky food instead of a meal was always a huge treat for us!  It was for my son as well.  His dream come true, and as a matter fact, likely my husbands as well!  I have a couple of chip and dip eating fools on my hands! 

I hope you enjoy this as much as we do!! Remember, nobody said this was healthy, so just relax and soak up the goodness!

You will need:
2 cans of corn, drained
2 bricks cream cheese (8 oz each)
1 cup butter
1/2 cup diced jalapenos

I made this in my small crock pot!  Throw all ingredients in your crock pot.  (or in a medium pan) Heat until cream cheese and butter are melted, stir often until that happens.  Keep on low, or warm and serve with tortilla chips or any chips of your choice!!

Again, I put mine in my crock pot and that way it stays warm all day or for an entire game!!

Enjoy this easy, crowd pleasing dip!

Your "sometimes I'm corny" Chefwannabe