Adventures of Mel

Category: Holiday Favorites

  • Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes Recipe

    Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes Recipe

    Learn how to make Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes, kinda like Jello cake, with buttercream frosting. These scrumptious cupcakes bring just a hint of green for a festive St Patrick’s Day or any day really.

    My mom used to make poke cake, or Jello cake as we called it, every spring and summer. It seemed to be one of her favorite things to make, and all of us loved when she made it, especially when she made lemon poke cake.

    Jello cake (or poke cake) has always been one of my favorites. Learn how to make Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes with buttercream frosting. These scrumptious cupcakes bring just a hint of green for a festive St Patricks Day or any day really.

    She’d pour cherry or strawberry Jello over the cake and top it off with whipped topping. Then she’d put it in the fridge and let it get ice cold. It was such a refreshing dessert and so scrumptious!

    With her cake in mind, I decided to kinda take a different twist and make poke cake cupcakes. I think these may become a regular favorite, because even my non sweets loving husband loved these.

    These cupcakes could be made any time of year with any flavor of Jello… though I did purposely use lime, so we could have green for St. Patrick’s Day. They’re super easy to make.

    Looking for more cupcake recipes? You may also enjoy these moist and fluffy chocolate cupcakes.

    I JUST WANT THE RECIPE! TAKE ME TO THE RECIPE FOR LIME VANILLA POKE CAKE CUPCAKES!

    If you’d rather skip all of my cooking tips, important cooking info for this recipe, and similar recipe ideas – and get straight to the scrumptious lime vanilla poke cake cupcakes recipe – just scroll down to the bottom, where you’ll find a printable recipe card.

    Jello cake (or poke cake) has always been one of my favorites. Learn how to make Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes with buttercream frosting. These scrumptious cupcakes bring just a hint of green for a festive St Patricks Day or any day really.

    TIPS FOR HOW TO MAKE LIME VANILLA CUPCAKES

    Yes, you can make these homemade, but using a cake mix just saves time; it’s quick and easy.

    Once your cupcakes have baked, remove from the oven and let them sit for 10-15 minutes.

    Then poke the middle of each cupcake with a fork just a few times. Add 3-4 small spoons of Jello over the middle of each cupcake, being careful not to let it run down the sides; it actually will soak into the cupcake if you’ve used a fork to poke holes in it.

    It will give each cupcake a surprise green color in the middle, perfect for St. Patty’s Day.

    Jello cake (or poke cake) has always been one of my favorites. Learn how to make Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes with buttercream frosting. These scrumptious cupcakes bring just a hint of green for a festive St Patricks Day or any day really.

    The lime combined with the vanilla is pretty yummy too.

    Finally, when the cupcakes have completely cooled, add the best buttercream frosting for a scrumptiously creamy dessert.

    Jello cake (or poke cake) has always been one of my favorites. Learn how to make Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes with buttercream frosting. These scrumptious cupcakes bring just a hint of green for a festive St Patricks Day or any day really.

    Once they’re frosted, chill them in the fridge.

    Jello cake (or poke cake) has always been one of my favorites. Learn how to make Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes with buttercream frosting. These scrumptious cupcakes bring just a hint of green for a festive St Patricks Day or any day really.

    When you’re ready for dessert, serve and enjoy!

    Jello cake (or poke cake) has always been one of my favorites. Learn how to make Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes with buttercream frosting. These scrumptious cupcakes bring just a hint of green for a festive St Patricks Day or any day really.

    LIME VANILLA POKE CAKE CUPCAKES RECIPE

    If you love this lime vanilla poke cake cupcakes recipe as much as I do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the recipe on Facebook and Pinterest!

    Jello cake (or poke cake) has always been one of my favorites. Learn how to make Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes with buttercream frosting. These scrumptious cupcakes bring just a hint of green for a festive St Patricks Day or any day really.

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    Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes

    Learn how to make Lime Vanilla Poke Cake Cupcakes, kinda like Jello cake, with buttercream frosting. These scrumptious cupcakes bring just a hint of green for a festive St Patrick’s Day or any day really.

    Poke Cake Cupcakes:

    • 1 French Vanilla cake mix
    • 1 cup water (boiling)
    • 3 ounces Lime Jello
    • 1/2 cup water (cold)
    • 3 cups buttercream frosting
    1. Mix cake mix and bake according to package directions.
    2. When fully baked, remove from oven and let cool 15-20 minutes.
    3. Meanwhile, mix Jello with boiling water; then add cold water, mixing well.
    4. Poke top middle of each cupcake with fork, 4-5 times.
    5. Slowly pour 3-4 spoons of Jello mixture over middle of each cupcake, careful to not let it run over the sides.
    6. Allow cupcakes to finish cooling.
    7. Mix all ingredients for buttercream frosting.
    8. Top each cupcake with frosting.
    9. Chill cupcakes.
    10. Serve and enjoy!
    Cakes & Cupcakes
    American
    Jello cake, lime vanilla cupcakes, poke cake cupcakes
  • Turkey Enchilada Skillet Casserole Recipe

    Turkey Enchilada Skillet Casserole Recipe

    When it comes to Mexican food, I could probably eat my weight in it, I’m not even kidding. My guys get tired of asking me where I want to go out to eat, if and when we do go out…my choice is always Mexican.

    That’s pretty much the reason why anytime I make a whole chicken (or, in this case, a turkey), chicken enchiladas are a must with the leftovers.

    My family loves a good casserole, and this is one casserole recipe to add to the list of recipes to try. Whether you love chicken recipes, enchiladas, or any type of Mexican food, this turkey enchilada casserole is a delicious skillet casserole that can be made with either turkey or chicken. Add it to the list of simple and easy dinner recipes.

    With leftover turkey, my boys’ favorite turkey stuffing crescent roll appetizers are another must, perfect for lunch; and of course, I can’t help but make my favorite leftover turkey casserole.

    I’ve shared a slow cooker chicken enchilada casserole recipe in the past, but this recipe is quite a bit different with fresher, slightly healthier ingredients. This skillet casserole is super easy to make; you basically layer all the ingredients together in an iron skillet and bake.

    Don’t you just love cooking in an iron skillet? I didn’t realize how much I love it until more recently.

    Love a good casserole? You may also enjoy this classic tater tot casserole recipe and tater tot taco bake.

    TIPS FOR HOW TO MAKE ENCHILADA CASSEROLE

    An iron skillet is so versatile, not to mention photogenic. I almost feel like I’m going back to my days on the farm when I bring out the iron skillet.

    My family loves a good casserole, and this is one casserole recipe to add to the list of recipes to try. Whether you love chicken recipes, enchiladas, or any type of Mexican food, this turkey enchilada casserole is a delicious skillet casserole that can be made with either turkey or chicken. Add it to the list of simple and easy dinner recipes.

    The one thing I wanted to eliminate from this casserole was cream soup.

    There are some ingredients that are easier to eliminate than others, but I found success by substituting sour cream. It was a tip I picked up via Heavenly Homemakers; they have an entire list of substitutions you can make for cream soups.

    I think this casserole was even better with the sour cream than with the cream of chicken soup I usually use. If you want low-fat, you could even go that route with the sour cream. If you like creamy enchiladas, you’re sure to love this recipe.

    My family loves a good casserole, and this is one casserole recipe to add to the list of recipes to try. Whether you love chicken recipes, enchiladas, or any type of Mexican food, this turkey enchilada casserole is a delicious skillet casserole that can be made with either turkey or chicken. Add it to the list of simple and easy dinner recipes.

    The recipe is fairly simple to make.

    • Sauté the onion and green chilies.
    • Add in the cream cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
    • Add shredded turkey. Mix together well.
    • Then layer everything in the skillet.
    My family loves a good casserole, and this is one casserole recipe to add to the list of recipes to try. Whether you love chicken recipes, enchiladas, or any type of Mexican food, this turkey enchilada casserole is a delicious skillet casserole that can be made with either turkey or chicken. Add it to the list of simple and easy dinner recipes.

    Serve with sour cream, green onions, tomatoes, and anything else you prefer.

    My family loves a good casserole, and this is one casserole recipe to add to the list of recipes to try. Whether you love chicken recipes, enchiladas, or any type of Mexican food, this turkey enchilada casserole is a delicious skillet casserole that can be made with either turkey or chicken. Add it to the list of simple and easy dinner recipes.

    A printable recipe, including full instructions, is available below. Use up those leftovers in a very enjoyable way!

    My family loves a good casserole, and this is one casserole recipe to add to the list of recipes to try. Whether you love chicken recipes, enchiladas, or any type of Mexican food, this turkey enchilada casserole is a delicious skillet casserole that can be made with either turkey or chicken. Add it to the list of simple and easy dinner recipes.

    Turkey Enchilada Skillet Casserole

    Turkey enchilada skillet casserole is super easy to make; just layer all the ingredients together in a cast iron skillet and bake.

    • 1 tbsp. salted butter
    • 1/2 large onion (finely chopped)
    • 1 – 4 oz. can chopped green chilies (drained)
    • 1 – 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese
    • 1 cup sour cream
    • 3/4 cup chunky salsa
    • 3 cups shredded turkey (or chicken)
    • 2 cups Extra Sharp Cheddar cheese (shredded)
    • 1 1/2 cups Colby Jack cheese (shredded)
    • 10 small corn tortillas (sliced into strips)
    1. Pre-heat oven to 350°.
    2. Melt butter in skillet. Sauté onion for 5 minutes.
    3. Add green chilies and sauté for 1 minute.
    4. Add cream cheese and let melt. Add sour cream and salsa, stirring to combine.
    5. Add shredded turkey, mixing well with other ingredients. Keep warm.
    6. Shred cheese and set aside.
    7. Stack corn tortillas and slice in half. Then cut into 1-inch strips.
    8. Begin layering ingredients in iron skillet. Begin with thin layer of creamy turkey mixture. Add layer of tortilla strips, then a thicker layer of creamy turkey mixture, then cheese. Repeat layers, starting with tortilla strips and ending with cheese.
    9. Bake at 350° for 30-45 minutes, or until cooked thru and cheese is melted.
    10. Serve with sour cream, green onions, tomatoes, and whatever else you enjoy with enchiladas. Enjoy!
    Dinner Ideas
    American
    casserole recipes, casseroles, enchilada casserole, skillet casserole, turkey enchilada casserole, turkey enchiladas
  • Chocolate Peanut Butter Hearts

    Chocolate Peanut Butter Hearts

    Love Reese’s? You’ll love chocolate peanut butter hearts. These heart shaped peanut butter candies covered in melted chocolate make the best Valentine’s Day treats!

    Chocolate peanut butter treats are my family’s go-to choice when it comes to candy. Dan loves Reese’s Mini Cups; the boys and I love it all, especially Ritz cracker cookies, peanut butter balls with Rice Krispies, and buckeyes.

    chocolate peanut butter hearts on baking sheet with pink hearts

    Special holidays like Valentine’s Day always mean heart shaped peanut butter cups. While I’ve tried to master copycat versions of Reese’s peanut butter cups, I think this is probably the closest I’ve ever gotten.

    These chocolate covered peanut butter hearts make a yummy Valentine for anyone (provided they don’t have a peanut allergy), be it family, friends, or even your neighbors.

    Speaking of Valentines, here’s another fun way to celebrate Valentine’s Day… Make a triceratops Valentine box to hold all your special Valentines!

    chocolate covered peanut butter hearts sliced in half on baking sheet

    Ingredient Notes:

    Let’s look at a few of the ingredients…

    • Salted Butter – I always recommend real butter over margarine. Anything less than real butter will change the texture of the finished candies.
    • Powdered Sugar
    • Creamy Peanut Butter – You can use chunky if you like a little more crunch to your peanut butter cups.
    • Graham Crackers – These will need to be crushed. I like to put the crackers in a Ziploc bag and roll over them with a rolling pin to crush them. You can also use a food processor.
    • Chocolate – While you can use candy melts, I recommend using real chocolate. Ghirardelli Melting Wafers are among my favorite melting chocolates; it’s becoming one of my favorite brands of chocolate for baking and sweets because the chocolate’s just so creamy and rich, full of flavor. Chocolate chips also work well.
    chocolate covered heart shaped peanut butter cups on baking sheet with pink hearts

    How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Hearts

    The hearts are easy to make, though the dipping process can be a little messy. If you’d rather no dipping, you’ll enjoy this buckeye bars recipe.

    Make the Heart Shapes

    1. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the butter, powdered sugar, and peanut butter.
    2. Add the crushed graham crackers to the peanut butter mixture, mixing well.
    3. To create the heart shapes, roll out the peanut butter filling on a lightly floured surface with a rolling pin; roll to about 3/4 inch thickness.
    4. Cut heart shapes with a small heart shaped cookie cutter.
    homemade Reese's hearts on baking sheet with pink hearts

    How to Melt the Chocolate for Dipping

    Depending on the chocolate you decide to use, you can melt it a few different ways:

    • Melt it using a double boiler on the stove – This is basically a pan inside of another pan with boiling water in the bottom pan. It allows for more even melting without burning, and it also keeps the chocolate warm for dipping.
    • Use a fondue pot and make it a family affair.
    • Melt it in the microwave – This is usually the route I go. Just follow package directions.

    Also, depending on the type of chocolate used, some people like to add shortening or paraffin wax to their chocolate as it melts. This allows for a thinner coating and stretches your chocolate a little further.

    How to Dip Peanut Butter Hearts

    1. Dip the hearts in chocolate, using your fingers, tongs, or a candy dipping tool. Once you do a few, you start to get a knack for it, and it becomes easier.
    2. Drip off excess chocolate after dipping, and place the candies on a wax paper covered cookie sheet.
    3. Place the chocolate dipped candies in the fridge to chill, so the chocolate coating can harden.
    chocolate peanut butter hearts candy on baking sheet with pink hearts

    More Valentine’s Desserts

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Chocolate Peanut Butter Hearts

    Love Reese's? You'll love chocolate peanut butter hearts. Heart shaped peanut butter candies covered in chocolate make the best Valentines!

    • 6 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
    • 2 cups powdered sugar
    • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
    • 3 whole graham crackers (crushed)
    • 1 pound chocolate

    1. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the butter, powdered sugar, and peanut butter.

    2. Add the crushed graham crackers to the peanut butter mixture, mixing well.

    3. To create the heart shapes, roll out the peanut butter filling on a lightly floured surface with a rolling pin; roll to about 3/4 inch thickness.

    4. Cut heart shapes with a small heart shaped cookie cutter.

    5. Add the chocolate to a microwave-safe measuring cup or bowl; and melt, starting at 30 seconds, then stirring every 15-20 seconds, 'til melted and smooth.

    6. Dip the hearts in chocolate, using tongs or a candy dipping tool. Once you do a few, you start to get a knack for it, and it becomes easier.

    7. Drip off excess chocolate after dipping, and place the candies on a wax paper covered cookie sheet.

    8. Place the chocolate dipped candies in the fridge to chill, so the chocolate coating can harden. Serve when ready!

    Desserts
    American
    chocolate covered peanut butter hearts, chocolate peanut butter candy, chocolate peanut butter hearts, heart shaped peanut butter cups, heart shaped Reese’s peanut butter cups, homemade reese’s hearts, Reese’s hearts, Reese’s peanut butter hearts, Valentine candy, Valentine treats, Valentine’s Day candy, Valentine’s Day recipes
  • Homemade Raspberry Hot Chocolate Recipe

    Homemade Raspberry Hot Chocolate Recipe

    Whirlpool Every Day, Care Holiday Disclosure {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com} #EveryDayCare
    Homemade Raspberry Hot Chocolate {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com} #EveryDayCare

    The holidays bring so much excitement and child-like wonder…it’s a happy time of year and a time when we especially take family traditions very seriously.

    It’s not just about the big day and presents under the tree. It’s about being together and sharing this experience as a family.

    We have a few fun traditions including new jammies and a holiday movie like Christmas Vacation on Christmas Eve.

    It’s definitely the holiday treat making season, as well; one of my favorite traditions is making hot chocolate, filling our travel cups, and heading out to see the lights.

    Hot Chocolate Holiday Tradition {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com} #EveryDayCare

    With beautiful holiday lights in mind, I decided to try making homemade hot chocolate. The boys love hot cocoa, and it’s just a given any time it snows or it’s cold outside. It’s kinda become our thing; it’s a way for me to let them know I care, a way to share something we all love.

    They love it when I put the tea kettle on, pull out the hot cocoa and marshmallows, and prep our favorite cups. Jaden loves a reindeer cup, and Jacob has his glass mug.

    Homemade Hot Chocolate {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com} #EveryDayCare

    This particular recipe is very rich, very chocolatey. We love adding a little creamer to our hot chocolate, but it’s not something we always have on hand.

    So, we did a li’l something different with that too. I made a homemade raspberry creamer. Ooo la la! It’s so good! Frozen raspberries, a little Half & Half, a little sugar, and you have your own homemade creamer.

    Add homemade raspberry creamer to hot chocolate {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com} #EveryDayCare

    Of course, don’t forget the marshmallows or whipped cream. Personally, I love to stack my cup with loads of mini mallows. So yummy!

    Looking for more festive beverage recipes?

    You’ll find a printable recipe below… I’m definitely adding this recipe to my list of The Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations.

    Hot Chocolate Tradition {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com} #EveryDayCare

    Tonight if we’re not out viewing the beautiful holiday lights in our neck of the woods, I think I may just sit down with my boys, a cup of homemade chocolatey goodness, and a good book.

    Homemade Raspberry Hot Chocolate Recipe {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com} #EveryDayCare

    Daily acts of care don’t always have to involve housework, after all… Sometimes they involve reading a good book together, taking a few to remember why we celebrate this wonderful holiday season.

    Homemade Raspberry Hot Chocolate, a warm drink perfect for a cold winter day. Cozy up with a delicious cup of creamy delicious hot cocoa.

    Whirlpool® has launched the Every day, care™ Project, highlighting simple acts of care that can change or light up your world. Little acts, such as laundry, cleaning, washing the dishes, reading a good book together, or even making a warm, homemade cup of chocolatey goodness can make a difference in the lives of those we care about and love. Click here to take a look at the Every day, care™ website to see how daily acts of care can change your world.

    Pin this recipe to save it for later!

    Cozy up with a warm cup of Raspberry Hot Chocolate, a sweet treat and a delicious homemade drink the whole family will love on a cold winter day.

    Homemade Raspberry Hot Chocolate Recipe

    Warm up with a delicious cup of homemade chocolatey goodness. Homemade raspberry hot chocolate recipe.

    Raspberry Creamer

    • 12 oz. frozen raspberries
    • 2 cups Half & Half
    • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

    Hot Chocolate

    • 3 cups Half & Half
    • 10 oz. Semi-Sweet chocolate chips
    • 10 oz. Milk chocolate chips
    • 1 tbsp. vanilla extract

    Raspberry Creamer

    1. Thaw raspberries and add to blender/food processor with Half & Half and sugar.
    2. Purée mixture.
    3. Run mixture through colander or strainer to remove all seeds.

    Hot Chocolate

    1. Add Half & Half, chocolate, and vanilla to saucepan and cook on medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid scorching.
    2. Cook until chocolate melts and mixture is hot, probably about 20 minutes.
    3. Pour into cups for serving.
    4. Add a spoonful or two of homemade raspberry creamer. Add marshmallows or whatever else you like in your hot chocolate.
    5. Enjoy!
    Drinks
    American
    beverages, drinks, homemade raspberry hot chocolate, hot chocolate, hot cocoa, raspberry hot chocolate, raspberry hot cocoa, warm beverages, warm drinks
  • Butter Almond Snowball Christmas Cookies Recipe

    Butter Almond Snowball Christmas Cookies Recipe

    Over the years we’ve had our favorite Christmas recipes in the form of candy, cookies, cakes, and more.

    I used to love these little almond crescent cookies that I’d buy around the holiday season. Yes, they were store bought cookies, even came in a box.

    Butter Almond Snowball Cookies, one of my favorite Christmas cookies ever. Dusted with powdered sugar for a melt in your mouth goodness like no other dessert.

    In fact, if I remember right, they were Keebler cookies. They were oh so scrumptious.

    Since I haven’t seen them in awhile, I thought I’d try making my own version, only in a round cookie shape vs. a crescent. I think I have a new favorite Christmas cookie recipe.

    These have a much more buttery taste than your typical sugar or almond cookie…I was going for a really buttery, almond-y flavor with these cookies. They have a crunchy edge, but depending on how long you bake them, they’re very chewy in the center.

    Butter Almond Snowball Cookie Recipe {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com}

    The powdered sugar is the secret to the pure yumminess of these cookies. I swear, they melt in your mouth, so de-lish!

    Christmas Cookie Recipe {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com}

    They don’t take a lot of ingredients, a win-win for a Christmas cookie, meaning they’re quite simple to make.

    Chewy Gingerbread Cookies

    Hot Chocolate Marshmallow Cookies

    Chocolate Lover’s Christmas Light Cookies

    Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe

    Red-Nosed Reindeer Thumbprint Cookies

    Mint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

    30 of the Most Scrumptious Classic Christmas Cookies Ever

    You can find even more holiday recipes on my list of Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations!

    Butter Almond Snowball Christmas Cookies {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com}

    You’ll find the printable recipe below. If you happen to bake them, drop me a line and let me know how you like them. Enjoy!

    Butter Almond Snowball Cookies {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com}

    Pin this recipe and save it for later!

    Butter Almond Snowball Cookies are one of my favorite holiday cookie recipes. Melt in your mouth deliciousness with a powdered sugar dusting. Scrumptious Christmas cookies!

    Butter Almond Snowball Cookies

    Butter Almond Snowball Cookies, one of my favorite Christmas cookies ever. Dusted with powdered sugar for a melt in your mouth goodness like no other dessert.

    • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
    • 1 cup cane sugar
    • 1 large egg
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
    • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup finely chopped almonds
    • 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

    1. Pre-heat the oven to 400° F.

    2. In a large mixing bowl, cream or mix together the softened butter and sugar.

    3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing well.

    4. In a separate mixing bowl, sift or whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

    5. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing well.

    6. Add the finely chopped almonds, mixing well.

    7. Drop the dough by tablespoonfuls onto an un-greased cookie sheet.

    8. Bake at 400° F for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden. Remove them from the cookie sheet, and place them on a wire rack to cool.

    9. When the cookies have mostly cooled but are still slightly warm, dust them in powdered sugar, making sure each cookie has a good coating of powdered sugar.

    10. Serve with a mug of ice cold milk, hot tea, or coffee.

    Cookies & Bars, Desserts
    American
    almond cookies, butter almond cookies, butter cookies, Christmas cookies, cookie recipes, cookies, snowball cookies
  • Pumpkin Pear Spice Cake Holiday Dessert Recipe

    Pumpkin Pear Spice Cake Holiday Dessert Recipe

    Pumpkin Pear Spice Cake includes just a few of my favorite ingredients.

    The holidays are a joyous time. Family, friends, holiday parties and get-togethers, delicious food, decadent holiday desserts.

    Pumpkin Pear Spice Cake is a scrumptious holiday dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. Get the recipe for this delicious, easy to make, sheet cake.

    A sheet cake is also a nice alternative to the traditional pumpkin roll or pumpkin pie. It adds a bit of variety, and I’d wager that it’s a bit easier or simpler to make too.

    I’m looking forward to making this again for Thanksgiving.

    Pumpkin Pear Spice Cake is a scrumptious holiday dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. Get the recipe for this delicious, easy to make, sheet cake.

    My boys have been begging me to make it again. There’s just something about the combination of flavors…

    Pumpkin Pear Spice Cake is a scrumptious holiday dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. Get the recipe for this delicious, easy to make, sheet cake.

    It’s a scrumptious dessert perfect for the holiday season.

    Below you’ll find a printable recipe. Enjoy and Happy Thanksgiving!

    Pumpkin Pear Spice Cake is a scrumptious holiday dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. Get the recipe for this delicious, easy to make, sheet cake.

    More pumpkin recipes you may enjoy:

    Pin the recipe for Pumpkin Pear Spice Cake!
    Pumpkin Pear Spice Cake is a scrumptious holiday dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. Get the recipe for this delicious, easy to make, sheet cake.

    Pumpkin Spice Pear Cake

    Pumpkin spice pear cake is a scrumptious holiday dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving dinner. Get the recipe for this delicious, easy to make, sheet cake.

    Cake:

    • 1 cup cane sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1/2 cup pumpkin
    • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
    • 1/2 cup whole milk
    • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 teaspoons baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 2 medium pears (washed, peeled, and diced)

    Frosting:

    • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
    • 2 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
    • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/4 teaspoon caramel extract
    • 2 cups powdered sugar
    • 24 mellowcreme candy pumpkins

    Cake:

    1. Pre-heat the oven to 375° F; grease and flour a 16×10 sheet cake pan.

    2. In a large mixing bowl, mix together the sugar, eggs, pumpkin, lemon juice, and milk.

    3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, including the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.

    4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing well.

    5. Add the diced pear to the mixture, mixing well.

    6. Spread the batter into the greased sheet cake pan, spreading it evenly in the pan.

    7. Bake at 375° F for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick, inserted in the center, comes out clean and cake begins to turn golden.

    8. Remove the cake from the oven, and allow it to cool completely.

    Frosting:

    1. Whisk the cream cheese and butter together 'til smooth and creamy.

    2. Add the vanilla extract, caramel extract, and powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, mixing everything together well.

    3. Spread the creamy frosting on top of the cooled cake.

    4. Slice the cake and add candy pumpkins to the top of each slice; then serve!

    Refrigerate the cake when not being served or eaten.

    Cakes & Cupcakes, Desserts
    American
    autumn recipes, cake recipes, cakes, fall recipes, pear cake, pumpkin cake, pumpkin pear cake, pumpkin pear spice cake, pumpkin spice pear cake, spice cake, Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving recipes
  • Caramel Pear Crumble Muffins Recipe

    Caramel Pear Crumble Muffins Recipe

    You know you’ve been there. You buy a bunch of fruit (pears, in this instance) just because it’s on sale; you have the best of intentions for it. You tell yourself the kids will eat it all for snacks or lunch sides; you may even have plans for baking.

    Caramel Pear Crumble Muffins Recipe {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com}

    Then a week or so later, you start to notice the fruit basket isn’t emptying quite as fast as you’d hoped. In fact, the pears now need eaten or used before they completely rot away. Story.of.my.life.

    Crumbly Pear Muffins {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com}

    While my kids do eat loads of fresh fruit, it’s never as much as I’d hoped or thought they might eat when I buy a bunch of stuff that’s on sale. Life happens, we get busy, and the basket still sits there…full of fruit just waiting to be eaten or used up before it ruins.

    The situation definitely calls for something homemade. And muffins or sweet breads are one of the easiest, most delicious things to make with fresh fruit.

    Caramel Pear Crumble Muffins {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com}

    These particular Caramel Pear Crumble Muffins are probably the most delicious muffins I’ve had in awhile. So tasty and my guys loved them too.

    The muffins themselves have a hint of caramel and spice. The topping is a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and butter; it gives a crunchy sweetness to the muffin.

    Pear muffins with crumble topping {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com}

    Below you’ll find a printable recipe. Bake up a batch, slather with a little bit of butter, and enjoy!

    More Quick Bread and Muffin Recipes:

    Homemade pear crumble muffins {MamaBuzz - mamabzz.com}

    Caramel Pear Crumble Muffins

    Delicious recipe for pear crumble muffins with a hint of caramel, perfect for fall, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
    • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
    • 2 eggs
    • 1/2 tsp. caramel extract
    • 2 tbsp. apple butter
    • 1/2 cup skim milk
    • 1 tbsp. baking powder
    • 1 tsp. salt
    • 1/2 tsp. apple pie spice
    • 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
    • 3 large pears (peeled, cored, and chopped)
    • Crumble Topping –
    • 1/4 cup salted butter (softened)
    • 2 tbsp. unbleached all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1 tsp. cinnamon
    1. Pre-heat oven to 375°.
    2. Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs, caramel extract, apple butter, and milk. Mix well.
    3. Add dry ingredients, including baking powder, salt, apple pie spice, and flour, to mixture. Mix well.
    4. Wash pears, and peel, core, and chop. Add to mixture.
    5. For crumble topping, mix all ingredients together.
    6. Add paper liners to muffin tin and fill with dough. Crumble topping on top.
    7. Bake muffins at 375° for about 25-30 minutes, or until muffins begin to turn golden on top and toothpick comes out clean.
    8. Serve and enjoy!
    Breads & Muffins
    American
    caramel pear crumble muffins, caramel pear muffins, crumble muffins, muffin recipes, muffins, pear muffins
  • DIY Garfield Costume for Kids

    DIY Garfield Costume for Kids

    Whip up a homemade Garfield costume for kids with minimal sewing and a dab of Garfield makeup. Anyone can make this easy DIY costume, supply list included; it’s especially perfect for Halloween!

    Every year I say I’m going to make the boys’ costumes, and every year Halloween gets away from me, leaving us scrambling the night before.

    boy in Garfield costume with stuffed Pooky the Teddy Bear and lasagna pan with trick or treat bucket

    Well, not this year, because we’ve been busy! Jaden kept changing his mind on what he wanted to be for Halloween. Finally, he decided on a Garfield Halloween costume.

    I waited a few days before I started purchasing supplies, just in case he changed his mind again. Nope, Garfield it was.

    This DIY Garfield costume is really pretty simple to make. In fact, why not make some Halloween treats to go along with your costume making? Like chewy monster cookies or Frankenstein brownies. Or better yet, Frankenstein Rice Krispie treats. Yum!

    Why You’ll Love This Costume

    • This costume is easy to make, and requires minimal supplies.
    • It also requires minimal sewing for those who are sewing challenged.
    • You can make this a Garfield baby costume, toddler costume, or adult costume. It works for anyone, any size, any age!
    • It’s the perfect costume for Halloween, Garfield cosplay, theatrical productions, and more!
    supplies to make a DIY Garfield costume, including orange pajamas, Duck Tape, quilt batting, a Sharpie fabric marker, and costume makeup

    Supplies and Materials Notes:

    You’ll need a few supplies and tools for this Garfield costume DIY…

    Tools You’ll Need:

    How to Make a Garfield Costume DIY

    When making this costume, we decided to make the Garfield portion of the footie pajamas a temporary thing. Jaden wanted to use them as jammies after Halloween.

    So we used Duck Tape for the stripes and tacked the ears and tail on. That way, everything will be easy to remove when Halloween is over.

    Garfield Halloween costume made with footie pajamas and black Duck Tape

    Just a Few Important Notes:

    It’s a good idea to wash the pajamas before you start crafting. That way they’re clean and ready to be decorated.

    You’ll also need to make a template for the stripes on Garfield’s back. I looked at various images of Garfield on Google and decided to go with 4 stripes.

    Making a template out of a smaller piece of poster board makes cutting the Duck Tape stripes so much easier and more efficient. The size of the stripes will depend on the size costume you’re making.

    Make the Stripes:

    1. Roll out a piece of Duck Tape, place your template over the Duck Tape, and use a craft knife to cut the shape out of the Duck Tape.
    2. Then apply each stripe to the back of the footie pajamas.
    3. After placing the larger stripes, mark where you want to place the ears. Then cut a smaller stripe template for stripes that go up the hood of the pajamas, and cut the stripes. Place each stripe up the left side of the hoodie, matching in place with the stripes on the right side of the hoodie. I placed 4 stripes on each side of the hood.
    how to make a Garfield costume DIY by adding stripes made out of black Duck Tape to orange footie pajamas

    Now for the Garfield Ears:

    1. Begin by cutting 2 small semi-circles out of the 1-in. thick foam. Place the semi-circles on the extra fleece fabric, and draw an oval around the shapes, leaving about 1 inch extra for the hem.
    2. For each ear, fold the oval shaped fabric in half, and sew around the edges, leaving 2-3 inches open for stuffing with the foam shape. Then turn the ears right side out and stuff with the foam shapes.
    3. After stuffing, close up the ear with a needle and thread.
    4. Tack the ears to the top of the hood where you’d previously marked for the ears to go. Using an image of Garfield as your guide, color in stripes and outline the ears with a black “Stained by Sharpie” fabric marker.
    how to make a Garfield costume by sewing the Garfield ears and tacking them to hoodie pajamas, then adding stripes with a black fabric marker

    And Finally, Garfield’s Tail:

    My husband, Dan, actually came up with this tail shape for me; he’s more of an artist than I am when it comes to designing/drawing. It turned out awesome!

    1. Fold more of the extra fleece fabric in half, and draw your shape, making sure to draw the tail large enough for the hem.
    2. Cut the tail out of the folded fleece, cutting both pieces of fabric. Then sew it together.
    3. Once the tail pieces are sewn together, it’s time to turn the tail right side out and stuff it with quilt batting. Make sure the tail is full to the gills with quilt batting. Once it’s full of batting, tack the tail to the back side of the costume.
    4. Cut 4 more stripes out of the Duck Tape. 2 stripes will be very small, and 2 stripes will be more of a medium size. Place the stripes on the tail. Then, using an image of Garfield as your guide, color in the end of the tail with the fabric marker.
    how to make a Garfield costume by making a tail out of fleece fabric, quilt batting, black Duck tape, and a black fabric marker

    Add the Finishing Touches to Your Homemade Garfield Costume

    Finally, it’s time for the props.

    Garfield loves his lasagna, so I hot glued Jaden’s trick or treat pumpkin bucket inside a foil pan labeled ‘Lasagna’. Easy peasy!

    lasagna trick or treat bucket to go with homemade Garfield costume

    And Jaden decided that he needed to also have Teddy with him (aka, Pooky), since Garfield loves his Pooky the Teddy Bear.

    We needed a little Garfield makeup, so we added a little costume makeup for whiskers and such, and he was all set. So stinkin’ adorable, y’all!

    Garfield costume DIY with Pooky the Teddy Bear and costume makeup whiskers

    And that’s all there is to it! Such an easy costume to make; all you need are a few supplies and a couple hours.

    Garfield is in the house, yo! And Jaden is so excited for trick-or-treating this Halloween. Have to say, I’m pretty excited too!

    More Halloween Costumes for Kids

    If you love this Garfield outfit as much as we do, please write a 5 star review, and help me share the DIY on Facebook and Pinterest!

    I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to leave a comment, and follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. You can subscribe to my email list too.

    Garfield Costume DIY

    Whip up a homemade Garfield costume for kids with minimal sewing and a dab of Garfield makeup. Easy DIY costume, supply list included.

    • 1 craft knife
    • 1 cutting mat
    • 1 black “Stained by Sharpie” fabric marker
    • Sewing machine
    • 1 hand sewing needle
    • Sewing scissors
    • Hot glue gun
    • 1 pair orange footie hooded pajamas*
    • 1/2 yard matching fleece fabric
    • 1 large roll black Duck Tape
    • 1 mini roll black Duck Tape
    • 1 piece poster board
    • quilt batting
    • orange thread
    • 1 piece 1-inch thick foam
    • 1 foil pan
    • 1 trick or treat bucket
    • costume makeup
    • hot glue sticks

    1. Roll out a piece of Duck Tape, place your template* over the Duck Tape, and use a craft knife to cut the shape out of the Duck Tape.

    2. Then apply each stripe to the back of the footie pajamas.

    3. After placing the larger stripes, mark where you want to place the ears.
    4. Then cut a smaller stripe template for stripes that go up the hood of the pajamas, and cut out the stripes.
    5. Place each stripe up the left side of the hoodie, matching in place with stripes on the right side of the hoodie. I placed 4 stripes on each side of the hood.

    6. Begin the ears by cutting 2 small semi-circles out of the 1-inch thick foam.

    7. Place the semi-circles on the extra fleece fabric, and draw an oval around the shapes, leaving about 1 inch extra for the hem.

    8. For each ear, fold the oval shaped fabric in half, and sew around the edges, leaving 2-3 inches open for stuffing with the foam shape.
    9. Then turn the ears right side out and stuff with the foam shapes.

    10. After stuffing, close up the ear with a needle and thread.

    11. Tack the ears to the top of the hood where you’d previously marked for the ears to go.

    12. Using an image of Garfield as your guide, color in stripes and outline the ears with the fabric marker.

    13. Fold more of the fleece fabric in half, and draw your shape, making sure to draw the tail large enough for the hem.

    14. Cut the tail out of the folded fleece, cutting both pieces of fabric. Then sew it together.

    15. Once the tail pieces are sewn together, it’s time to turn the tail right side out and stuff it with quilt batting. Make sure the tail is full to the gills with quilt batting.

    16. Once it’s full of batting, tack the tail to the back side of the costume.

    17. Cut 4 more stripes out of the Duck Tape. 2 stripes will be very small, and 2 stripes will be more of a medium size.

    18. Place the stripes on the tail.

    19. Then, using an image of Garfield as your guide, color in the end of the tail with the fabric marker.

    20. Hot glue a trick or treat pumpkin bucket inside a foil pan, labeled ‘Lasagna’.

    21. Add a stuffed teddy bear for Pooky the Teddy Bear.

    22. Use costume makeup to make Garfield makeup, including whiskers, a pink nose, and other Garfield facial features.

    23. And that’s it! Your costume is ready to go!

    *Wash the pajamas before starting to craft the costume.

    *You’ll need to make a template for the stripes on Garfield’s back. Making a template out of a smaller piece of poster board makes cutting the Duck Tape stripes so much easier and more efficient. The size of the stripes will depend on the size costume you’re making.

    Halloween
    DIY Garfield costume, Garfield cat costume, Garfield costume, Garfield Halloween costume, Garfield outfit, Halloween costume, Halloween costumes for kids, homemade Garfield costume, how to make a Garfield costume
  • Homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries Recipe

    Homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries Recipe

    Valentine’s Day is almost here, and these little treats are the perfect homemade gift and easy to make too.

    Growing up, my dad loved his chocolate covered cherries, especially at Christmas time, one reason I’m adding this recipe to my list of The Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations. We’d get him a box every single year, and if we didn’t, he’d buy his own.

    chocolate covered cherries

    One year, I made him a batch of homemade; but this year, I decided to make some for Valentine’s Day instead.

    These chocolate covered cherries are filled with a creamy white filling and, of course, Maraschino cherries.

    inside a chocolate covered cherry

    I used Ghirardelli Dark Melting Wafers, which I found at our grocery store.

    Looking for more festive sweet treats?

    chocolate covered cherries

    Below you’ll find a printable recipe. Enjoy!

    homemade Valentine's Day candy

    Homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries

    These homemade chocolate covered cherries are filled with a creamy white filling and, of course, Maraschino cherries.

    • 10 ounces Maraschino cherries
    • 10 ounces dark chocolate (melting wafers)
    • 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
    • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
    • 1 cup powdered sugar
    • 1 tablespoon whole milk
    1. The first step is to make the creamy white filling for the chocolate covered cherries. Start by melting butter, then add in vanilla and almond extract. Mix in powdered sugar and milk, starting with 1 tbsp. milk and adding more as needed to get filling to just a slightly thicker consistency. You want the filling to be somewhat thin but thick enough to not make a complete mess when you go to fill the candy mold.
    2. Melt the chocolate according to package directions. I found it helpful, at this point, to then add my chocolate to a decorating bottle; I did the same with the creamy filling.
    3. Start by adding a bit of chocolate to the bottom of your candy mold. Then add a whole cherry or piece of a cherry, depending on the size of your candy mold. Add a bit of the white creamy filling, probably about 1/2-1 tsp. Then finish off with the melted chocolate, surrounding the cherry and creamy filling.
    4. Once all candy sections are filled, place candy mold in freezer for 5-10 minutes or until candy is set. Pop out of candy mold and serve. Enjoy!
    Candy
    American
    chocolate covered cherries
  • Sparkling Non-Alcoholic Party Drink Recipe with a Touch of Tangerine

    Sparkling Non-Alcoholic Party Drink Recipe with a Touch of Tangerine

    It’s no secret to any of my friends that I don’t drink. I just really don’t like the taste of alcohol at all; there’s something about the taste that I can.not.stand…. Same with coffee. Believe me, there have been many a time where I’ve wished I could sit down with a glass of wine at night or with a cup of coffee in the morning. But my taste buds won’t let me. Since Dan and I do like to sit down with a glass of sparkling grape juice every once in awhile, I thought it’d be fun to create a sparkling non-alcoholic party drink recipe, especially in honor of New Year’s Eve. Planning a New Year’s Eve party requires party drinks. If you love a good mocktail, this sparkling non-alcoholic party drink with a touch of tangerine will have your taste buds hoppin’. Get the super easy recipe!

    How to Make a Sparkling Non-Alcoholic Party Drink

    If you’re like me and just don’t drink at all, you may enjoy this non-alcoholic version of a celebratory drink. The nice thing is that it’s so easy and simple to make. I’m definitely adding this recipe to my list of The Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations.

    I hope you enjoy!

    Looking for more festive beverage recipes?

    Sparkling Non-Alcoholic Party Drink with a Touch of Tangerine

    Non-alcoholic sparkling drink with just 3 simple ingredients. Easy to make and perfect for a party!

    • 1 cup sparkling white grape juice
    • 1 cup ginger ale
    • 1 teaspoon tangerine juice ((just a spritz))
    1. Simply mix the ingredients together.
    2. Then squeeze in a bit of fresh orange or tangerine juice. Just a spritz or two will do.
    3. Finally, add a touch of orange peel or a slice of orange for a decorative touch.
    4. Serve and enjoy!
    Beverage
    American
    non-alcoholic party drink, sparkling drink

    Want to pair this drink with a platter of simple to make appetizers? Check out these 3 Super Easy Appetizer Recipes for New Year’s.Hosting a New Year's Eve party or celebration? Here are 3 ideas for super easy appetizer recipes. Easy recipes and bacon? Yes please!

  • Snowman Pimento Cheese Ball Recipe

    Snowman Pimento Cheese Ball Recipe

    Knowing that I wanted to come up with a fun appetizer recipe for New Year’s, it just seemed logical to include one of our favorite snacks, pimento cheese. And, of course, it had to have a theme…. so one of my personal favorites at this time of year, a snowman.

    Snowman Pimento Cheese Ball Recipe from MamaBuzz {mamabzz.com}

    Dan and I had a lot of fun experimenting with this recipe and came up with it together. We schemed and experimented, adding ingredients until the pimento cheese tasted just right.

    Below you’ll find the printable recipe and how to. This recipe is so much fun to make; the cheese ball formed into a snowman is really like an empty canvas just waiting to be decorated.

    Homemade pimento cheese ball snowman recipe

    My advice is to be creative with the decorating and use what you have. I used black olives for the eyes, mouth, and buttons. Then peppers for the nose, scarf, and hat. The nice thing about pimento cheese is that it was so easy to decorate; everything stuck fast so easily.

    When all is said and done, serve Frosty with snack crackers or pretzels, whatever you or your guests enjoy. The nice thing about the decorations is that if using olives and peppers, they’re completely edible and pair well with the cheese. Enjoy!

    Looking for more delicious holiday appetizers or snacks?

    If you’re looking for more holiday party recipe inspiration, be sure to check out my list of The Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations.

    How to make a snowman pimento cheese ball

    Snowman Pimento Cheese Ball

    Festive snowman pimento cheese ball you can serve with crackers, pretzels, or a fresh veggie tray. Perfect for a Christmas party!

    • 16 ounces cream cheese
    • 24 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
    • 4 ounces pimentos (diced)
    • 1/4 cup mayo
    • 2 tablespoons vinegar
    • 2 1/2 tablespoons sugar
    1. Mix cream cheese, shredded Cheddar, and pimentos. Add in mayo, vinegar, and sugar, blending ingredients well. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
    2. Remove from refrigerator, and use 2/3 of the mixture to form the base of the snowman. Then use more cheese to shape his head and add that on to the base. Shape and round the cheese ball, adding in bits of the cheese mixture to fill in gaps and make him look like you want him to look.
    3. Now it’s time to decorate. Wash any veggies you’ll be using. Chop olives into longer pieces for the eyes; then chop small bits of olives for the mouth. Olives should stick fast to cheese ball with just a tiny bit of pressure. Slice sliver of orange pepper to look like a carrot nose. Then slice red pepper (or whatever color you prefer) into small strips for the scarf; I found that using smaller strips held better to the cheese. Slice top of pepper and remove seeds. Add to top of snowman’s head for a hat. Chop ends of 2 olives and use for buttons. Add 2 pretzel sticks for the arms.
    4. Finally, add parsley around snowman for garnish. Serve with crackers, pretzel sticks, or whatever snacks you and your guests may enjoy.
    5. (Disclaimer: Always remember to refrigerate snowman when not enjoying as an appetizer or snack.)
    Appetizers
    American
    pimento cheese ball, snowman cheese ball

  • Chocolate Covered Almond Coconut Trees

    Chocolate Covered Almond Coconut Trees

    One last candy recipe before Christmas is here, a holiday recipe for chocolate bark Christmas trees with almonds and coconut filling!

    Almond Coconut Chocolate Bark Christmas Trees from MamaBuzz {mamabzz.com}

    Ok, so originally, I was hoping for more of an “Almond Joy” feel to these little treats, but instead they’re more like an “Almond Joy” chocolate bark. No mind, though, because they were still a hit, especially with my oldest, who happens to be my harshest critic.

    To make these candy trees, I used this Wilton Bite Size Tree Mold. Below is a printable recipe for these festive sweet treats. Enjoy!

    Looking for more Christmas sweet treats?

    And if you’re looking for more holiday recipe inspiration, check out my list of The Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations.

    The Inside of an Almond Coconut Candy Bark Tree

    Chocolate Covered Almond Coconut Trees

    How to make delectable little chocolate bark Christmas trees with almonds and coconut filling. Festive Christmas candy with hints of Almond Joy.

    • 4 tablespoons salted butter
    • 1/2 cup coconut (shredded)
    • 1/3 cup marshmallow cream
    • 12 whole Almonds
    • 10 ounces dark chocolate (melting wafers)
    1. Melt chocolate candy coating according to package directions.
    2. Next, melt butter and mix with coconut flakes and marshmallow cream, forming a soft, sticky filling for the trees.
    3. Add small amount of chocolate to candy mold, covering bottom of each candy space. Add one almond on top of chocolate; then add small amount of coconut filling (about a teaspoon), covering each almond. Cover with chocolate candy coating.
    4. Chill candy trees in freezer until set. Pop out of mold and enjoy!
    Candy
    American
    almond coconut trees, chocolate covered almond coconut candy
  • Apple Quickie Recipe

    Apple Quickie Recipe

    Digging around in Grandma’s recipe box again, I’ve found so many new recipes to try, and what better way to piece things together and learn even more in the kitchen? Plus I never know what notes I may find, written by her hand.

    Apple Quickie Recipe {mamabzz.com}

    This Apple Quickie is one of the best apple crisp recipes I’ve ever tried. Grandma has written on the recipe, “Tastes like old fashioned apple crisp.”

    Recipe for Apple Quickie
    Bite of Apple Quickie

    Indeed it tastes delicious. It has such a sweet flavor, and one of the nice things about it is that it doesn’t require a ton of ingredients.

    The hardest part about this recipe is peeling and slicing the apples. It’s definitely a recipe I’ll be making again and again. Kinda like another family-favorite, cinnamon stuffed pears. You might even add a pinch of homemade apple pie spice for extra flavor.

    I hope you enjoy!

    Apple Quickie

    Apple Quickie (Apple Dump Cake)

    Apple Quickie, or apple dump cake, is one of the best apple desserts and tastes like old-fashioned apple crisp.

    • 8 apples (medium to large in size)
    • 3/4 cup sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
    • 1 tablespoon salted butter
    • 7.5 ounces yellow cake mix
    1. Use canned or freshly cooked, sliced apples (I chose to use fresh apples, since they’re in season); in the case of fresh apples, core, peel, and slice. Arrange apple slices in buttered 8x8x2 pan. Combine sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over apples. Dot with butter. Sprinkle with cake mix, direct from box. Pierce with fork so juice can bubble up through.
    2. Bake in a moderate oven at 375° for about 30 minutes. Serve while warm with whipped topping, if desired. Enjoy!
    Desserts
    American
    apple dump cake, apple quickie

    In the mood for more apple recipes?

  • Easy Valentine Cake Pops

    Easy Valentine Cake Pops

    Learn how to make easy Valentine cake pops with the Babycakes cake pop maker. These treats on a stick make cute DIY bite-sized desserts, they’re the perfect recipe for kids, and they’re so much fun to make!

    When I started out to make these Valentine’s Day cherry chip cake pops, I wasn’t even sure how to go about making them ’til I did a little research. Now I’m thinking up all kinds of themes and ideas for cake pops, case in point, the Truffula Tree cake pops I made for Earth Day.

    Valentine cake pops in a cup, with a bite out, piping cake batter into cake pop maker, and Valentines cake pop with sprinkles

    There are a couple ways to make cake pops, including this how to make cake pops tutorial over on A Beautiful Mess; their cake pops look absolutely delicious.

    However, while at Michaels one night, I found the Babycakes Cake Pop Maker on sale, so I decided to snatch one up and start making cake pops. I started with these lovely Valentine’s Day cake pops.

    Ingredient and Supply Notes

    The first thing you want to do is gather all your supplies, including cake pop sticks and a cake pop holder.

    Paper straws and string for Valentine cake pop sticks and decoration
    • Cake Mix – You can use any flavor you like; I especially love cherry chip, but you can also make white, yellow, strawberry, chocolate, red velvet, etc. If you want pink or red Valentines cake pops, strawberry, cherry chip, or red velvet are the way to go.
    • Large Eggs
    • Vanilla Pudding Mix – Make sure it’s an instant pudding mix, not the cook type.
    • Whole Milk
    • Cooking Spray – to lightly spray the griddle in your cake pop maker.
    • Candy Melts and Sprinkles – for decorating. I especially love these dye free nonpareils from Watkins.
    • Cake Pop Sticks – You can find an abundance of super cute paper straws on Etsy; they work really well as cake pop sticks.
    • Cake Pop Stand – You’ll need a cake pop holder to hold the cake pops while they set up after dipping. Wilton makes an affordable cake pop holder.
    • Babycakes Cake Pop Maker
    Babycakes cake pop maker with fork on wood cutting board

    How to Make Valentine Cake Pops

    There are 2 steps to making Babycakes cake pops… Baking and decorating.

    How to Bake Cake Pops

    1. Mix the cake mix with the eggs, pudding mix, and milk.
    2. Then add a little bit at a time to a pastry bag; this will make for easier filling of the cooking reservoirs in the cake pop maker.
    3. Heat up the cake pop maker, and wait for the green light to show that it’s ready.
    4. Give a light coating of cooking spray to each reservoir in the cake pop maker; then fill each cooking reservoir with about 1 tablespoon of cake batter, trying not to overfill. If you overfill, instead of a round cake pop “planet,” you might end up with “Saturn.” I love using the cake pop maker because it shapes the cake pops for you, as long as you fill the reservoirs appropriately.
    piping cherry chip cake pop batter into Babycakes cake pop maker
    1. Lower the lid on the cake pop maker, latching it shut. Now it’s just a waiting game, about 4-6 minutes per batch of cake pops. Definitely use a pot holder to lift the lid because it can be quite hot to the touch. When done, you should have nice, round cake pops.
    baked cherry chip cake balls in Babycakes cake pop maker
    1. The cake pop maker comes with a fork, so you can easily remove the cake pops and place them in a spot to cool.
    baked cherry chip cake balls cooling on paper towel

    How to Decorate Valentine’s Day Cake Pops

    To decorate your cake pops, use candy melts and sprinkles of your choice. I really like pink and white candy melts for Valentine’s Day.

    supplies and cake balls for making Valentine's Day cake pops on wood table
    1. Before decorating, it’s a good idea to place the cake pops in the freezer for just a few minutes; this helps to dip them easier without a crumbly mess.
    2. Melt the candy melts according to the directions on the package. I usually start at 1 minute, then stir and switch to 30 second intervals, stirring between every interval.
    3. Remove the cake pops from the freezer and start decorating. Take a cake pop stick, dip it in the melted candy, and insert it into the cake pop.
    inserting paper straw into cake ball for cake pop stick
    1. Then dip each cake pop into the melted candy, coating well, and allowing excess candy to drip before placing upright.
    dipping Valentines cake pops into melted white candy melts
    1. Decorate with any type of sprinkles you desire; I use different types of Valentine’s Day sprinkles and colored sugar.You can also alternate colors with the candy melts; I put a bit of the melted candy in pastry bags, so I can add decorative touches, like little swirls, here and there.
    pink Valentine's Day cake pop with tiny heart sprinkles on top
    white swirl decoration on pink Valentines cake pop
    1. Then place each cake pop into a cake pop holder. Let the cake pops dry, and then serve.
    decorated Valentine's Day cake pops in Wilton cake pop holder

    We’re usually not huge cake eaters, but my guys really liked these; each cake pop is such a small serving and makes a nice sweet treat.

    cherry chip Valentines cake pop with nonpareils and bite taken out of it

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Confessional Tip: On my first try, my batter looked normal, but my cake pops were turning out to look like nipples (I’m not even kidding). So, off to experiment and try again; I eventually learned the batter needs to be almost as stiff as brownie batter. When it’s a stiff batter, it works like a charm!

    Why do you freeze or refrigerate cake pops before dipping?

    Cake pops can be soft and crumbly. So it helps to freeze them prior to dipping, so they dip more easily. It also helps the melted candy to set up faster, so you can decorate more efficiently and quickly.

    How early can you make cake pops before an event or party?

    You can make them a couple days in advance. Like cake, cake pops can lose their freshness, so I’d only make them 1-2 days in advance for best quality, flavor, and texture. They should last for 1-2 days at room temp and 5-7 days in the fridge.

    How should you store cake pops?

    Depending on ingredients used, you can store dipped cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you’re making them more in advance or with certain ingredients that require refrigeration, they need to go in the fridge; before you put them in the fridge, be sure to layer them on a paper towel or piece of parchment paper, in a single layer, in an airtight container. Then just remove them from the fridge a couple hours before the big event, so they can warm to room temp and soften.

    Valentine cake pops in red cup

    More Delicious Valentine’s Day Recipes

    Valentine’s Day is the perfect time for ideas, desserts, and sweet treats like these…

    These would be great served at a party or a celebration; they’re also fun just to get creative with, maybe share a few with your neighbors. Enjoy!

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Valentine Cake Pops

    How to make easy Valentine cake pops with the Babycakes cake pop maker. Cute DIY bite-sized desserts, perfect recipe for kids, fun to make!

    • Cake Pop Sticks
    • Cake Pop Stand
    • Babycakes Cake Pop Maker
    • 15.25 ounces cake mix (any flavor you like)
    • 2 large eggs
    • 3 ounces instant vanilla pudding mix
    • 3/4 cup whole milk (in place of water on cake mix pkg)
    • 12 ounces candy melts (any color)
    • 1/2 cup sprinkles

    How to Bake Cake Pops

    1. Mix the cake mix with the eggs, pudding mix, and milk.

    2. Then add a little bit of the batter at a time to a pastry bag; this will make for easier filling of the cooking reservoirs in the cake pop maker.

    3. Heat up the cake pop maker, and wait for the green light to show that it's ready.

    4. Give a light coating of cooking spray to each reservoir in the cake pop maker; then fill each cooking reservoir with about 1 tablespoon of cake batter, trying not to overfill. If you overfill, instead of a round cake pop “planet,” you might end up with “Saturn.” I love using the cake pop maker because it shapes the cake pops for you, as long as you fill the reservoirs appropriately.

    5. Lower the lid on the cake pop maker, latching it shut. Now it's just a waiting game, about 4-6 minutes per batch of cake pops. Definitely use a pot holder to lift the lid because it can be quite hot to the touch. When done, you should have nice, round cake pops.

    6. The cake pop maker comes with a fork, so you can easily remove the cake pops and place them in a spot to cool.

    How to Decorate Valentine's Day Cake Pops

    1. Before decorating, it's a good idea to place the cake pops in the freezer for just a few minutes; this helps to dip them easier without a crumbly mess.

    2. Melt the candy melts according to the directions on the package. I usually start at 1 minute, then stir and switch to 30 second intervals, stirring between every interval.

    3. Remove the cake pops from the freezer and start decorating. Take a cake pop stick, dip it in the melted candy, and insert it into the cake pop.

    4. Then dip each cake pop into the melted candy, coating well, and allowing excess candy to drip before placing upright.

    5. Decorate with any type of sprinkles you desire; I use different types of Valentine's Day sprinkles and colored sugar.You can also alternate colors with the candy melts; I put a bit of the melted candy in pastry bags, so I can add decorative touches, like little swirls, here and there.

    6. Then place each cake pop into a cake pop holder. Let the cake pops dry, and then serve.

    Confessional Tip: On my first try, my batter looked normal, but my cake pops were turning out to look like nipples (I’m not even kidding). So, off to experiment and try again; I eventually learned the batter needs to be almost as stiff as brownie batter. When it’s a stiff batter, it works like a charm!

    How should you store cake pops?

    Depending on ingredients used, you can store dipped cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you’re making them more in advance or with certain ingredients that require refrigeration, they need to go in the fridge; before you put them in the fridge, be sure to layer them on a paper towel or piece of parchment paper, in a single layer, in an airtight container. Then just remove them from the fridge a couple hours before the big event, so they can warm to room temp and soften.

    How early can you make cake pops before an event or party?

    You can make them a couple days in advance. Like cake, cake pops can lose their freshness, so I’d only make them 1-2 days in advance for best quality, flavor, and texture. They should last for 1-2 days at room temp and 5-7 days in the fridge.

    Desserts
    American
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    (Disclosure: I was not compensated or provided product, in any way, for this recipe.)

  • Valentine Cookie Pops from Sugar Cookie Dough

    Valentine Cookie Pops from Sugar Cookie Dough

    Bake heart shaped sugar cookies on a stick to make Valentine cookie pops. This is the perfect recipe to make and decorate with kids on Valentine’s Day! It’s fun and easy too!

    With February just around the corner, I’ve been seeing Valentine treats galore on Pinterest. These Valentines cookie pops were more of an experiment for me, but I was determined to make them.

    Valentine cookie pops on baking sheet

    The end result with these sugar cookie pops was most definitely worth it. It was a lot of fun decorating them too. Who knew a cookie on a stick could be so much fun?

    How to Make Valentine Cookie Pops

    For these frosted sugar cookie pops, I made my mom’s cutout sugar cookie recipe; I’ve been making this recipe for as long as I can remember.

    Make the Dough

    First mix up the dough following these steps…

    1. Sift or whisk together the flour with the baking soda, salt, and sugar.
    2. Using a pastry blender, cut the butter into the dry ingredients.
    3. Work the butter in until the mixture is as fine as corn meal.
    4. Give the eggs a slight beating with a whisk.
    5. Then in a separate mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and vanilla extract with the slightly beaten eggs.
    6. Add the dry ingredients to the liquid ingredients.
    7. Mix ’til you have a smooth cookie dough.

    Chill the Dough

    At this point, you’ll need to cover the dough closely with wax paper or plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator overnight or at least 3-4 hours.

    Cut out Heart Shapes and More

    1. Now it’s time to roll out the dough.
    rolling pin on sugar cookie dough on floured surface
    1. Then cut out the heart shaped cookies. I have a simple heart cookie cutter that I used, along with a mitten and a double heart cookie cutter.
    heart cookie cutter cutting heart shaped cookies from dough on floured surface

    How to Put Cookies on a Stick

    1. After cutting out the cookies, place them, one at a time, onto an un-greased baking sheet. Then place the cookie pop sticks on each cookie, gently pressing down into the dough just a bit.
    cookie pop sticks on Valentines cookie pops before baking on baking sheet
    1. Bake the heart cookie pops at 425° for about 8-10 minutes. They’ll puff up somewhat. Lay cookies out on a paper towel, and let cool.
    Valentine's Day cookie pops baked and ready to decorate on paper towels

    Frost and Decorate Heart Shaped Cookie Pops

    When the cookies have cooled well, the fun begins. You can make a simple sugar cookie icing out of powdered sugar, butter, cream, vanilla, and almond extract.

    pink and white icing for frosted sugar cookie pops in white bowls

    We like to use different colors. I normally shy away from coloring as much as possible, because I don’t like to feed it to my kids; but it’s an occasional special treat.

    sprinkles and frosting for decorating heart cookie pops on blue and orange plates

    You can use whatever your heart desires to decorate, things like sprinkles, colored sugar, candy hearts, etc. Once you’ve decorated your cookies to the hilt, they’re ready to eat or gift.

    heart shaped cookie pops in white cake pop stand

    Though my mitten and heart cookie pops are definitely far from perfect, they’re really fun to make, especially once I halfway figured out what I was doing. They’re definitely a fun project to work on with kids (especially the decorating part). Enjoy!

    Valentine's sugar cookie pops on baking sheet

    More Valentine’s Day Recipes, Including Cookies

    Valentine’s Day recipes are fun to make, and these are a few of our favorites…

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Valentine Cookie Pops

    Bake heart shaped sugar cookies on a stick to make Valentine cookie pops. Perfect recipe to make and decorate with kids on Valentine's Day!

    Cookie Dough:

    • 4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 1/2 cups sugar
    • 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter
    • 1/2 cup buttermilk (or sour milk)
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    Frosting:

    • 4 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 teaspoon almond extract
    • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
    • 6 cups powdered sugar

    Cookie Decorating:

    • 1/2 cup sprinkles (optional)
    • 5 drops food coloring (optional)

    Cookies:

    1. Sift or whisk together the flour with the baking soda, salt, and sugar.

    2. Using a pastry blender, cut the butter into the dry ingredients.

    3. Work the butter in until the mixture is as fine as corn meal.

    4. Give the eggs a slight beating with a whisk.

    5. Then in a separate mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and vanilla extract with the slightly beaten eggs.

    6. Add the dry ingredients to the liquid ingredients.

    7. Mix 'til you have a smooth cookie dough.

    8. At this point, you'll need to cover the dough closely with wax paper or plastic wrap, and chill it in the refrigerator overnight or at least 3-4 hours.

    9. Roll out the dough on a floured surface.

    10. Then cut out the heart shaped cookies. I have a simple heart cookie cutter that I used, along with a mitten and a double heart cookie cutter.

    11. After cutting out the cookies, place them, one at a time, onto an un-greased baking sheet. Then place the cookie pop sticks on each cookie, gently pressing down into the dough just a bit.

    12. Bake the heart cookie pops at 425° for about 8-10 minutes. They'll puff up somewhat. Lay the cookies out on a paper towel, and let cool.

    Frosting and Decorating:

    1. Mix together the softened butter, vanilla extract, almond extract, whipping cream, and powdered sugar, 'til you have a smooth frosting that's spreadable.

    2. Decorate each Valentines cookie pop with frosting and sprinkles, as desired. Enjoy!

    Cookies & Bars, Desserts
    American
    frosted sugar cookie pops, heart cookie pops, heart shaped cookie pops, sugar cookie pops, sugar cookie pops recipe, Valentine cookie pops, Valentine’s Day cookie pops, Valentines cookie pops
  • Holiday Craft ~ How to Recycle Old Christmas Cards into Festive Placemats

    Holiday Craft ~ How to Recycle Old Christmas Cards into Festive Placemats

    There are so many ways to recycle old Christmas cards into something special. This is a super easy holiday craft that can liven up any table and spark holiday memories from Christmases past. By using a few cards, you can create special holiday placemats for your dining room table.

    Supplies Needed:

    Christmas/Holiday Cards
    Trimmer/Scissors
    Cutting Tools
    Cutting Mat
    Clear Con-Tact Covering
    Poster Board

    First things first, gather your cards together. This might be the more time consuming portion of the project, especially if you’re like me and get sucked into reading old cards and letters. I found some letters I’d forgotten I even had from my grandma, from my dad, and more. I need a day just to sift through old letters and read. Anyway, after gathering your cards, cut each card in half. This will give a less bulky feel and appearance to the placemats when done. Now measure the size you want for your placemats onto poster board, and cut the poster board. I used an already existing placemat I had to measure and cut just the size I needed. Cut a larger than size piece of Clear Con-Tact Covering (found at most mass retail/craft stores), and place poster board on sticky side of covering. Arrange your cards how you want them to be for your finished look. This takes a bit more time too, just making sure you have things lined up and fitting well. You could use decorative scrapbook paper to provide a backdrop…. you could even crop the cards into different shapes and sizes. Finally, after cards are arranged just so, add another layer of Clear Con-Tact Covering on top, and smooth well, making sure there are no air bubbles. Trim around the edges of your placemat, and round the corners. That’s all there is to it; you now have a finished placemat! I’m still working on mine; I have two done, but they’re so festive, so pretty; and they can easily be wiped off after meals, which is perfect with kids.

    Happy Holidays, and Merry Christmas! What are some creative ideas you have for using old Christmas/holiday cards?

  • Gingerbread Loaf Recipe without Molasses

    Gingerbread Loaf Recipe without Molasses

    Grandma’s homemade gingerbread loaf recipe without molasses makes moist, soft cake full of the best spiced flavor. This classic quick bread is baked perfect for a holiday dessert!

    When I was a little girl, my mom would make gingerbread loaf, pull it out of the warm oven, and slather it with butter. I barely remember it, but I do remember it being really special, a homemade gingerbread treat.

    sliced gingerbread loaf recipe without molasses on wood cutting board

    One weekend I searched through my grandma’s recipe box, looking for gingerbread loaf cake, and I found just the recipe… A bit tattered, but definitely still readable and so very special because it looks like it’s been used quite a lot.

    slice of gingerbread loaf on wood cutting board beside Grandma's torn and tattered recipe

    What Is Gingerbread Loaf?

    When you think of gingerbread, you probably automatically think gingerbread cookies. This gingerbread loaf is essentially a gingerbread cake recipe without molasses, but in loaf form. Mom used to make it in a 9×13 cake pan too, so it can be either/or.

    Did you know it’s thought that gingerbread actually originated in Greece? There’s also history of it in China and then in Europe… But it was first made in Greece.

    And just for kicks and giggles, gingerbread houses first came along in Germany in the 16th century. Sometimes I find little historical facts like this fascinating.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    There are definitely a few reasons to love this gingerbread loaf recipe without molasses…

    • You can serve it for breakfast or dessert. It’s great for both!
    • It’s delicious sliced with a simple dollop of butter spread into each slice.
    • It’s quick and easy to make, especially perfect for last minute.
    • This recipe makes 2 loaves, so you can eat one and gift the other.
    • When baked, it’s not too sweet, not too strong…. it makes a really delicious breakfast treat or snack.

    Ingredients and Substitutions Notes:

    You’ll need a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.

    • Butter – While I prefer to use unsalted butter when baking, you can also use salted. Just know that unsalted allows you to more easily control the amount of salt in the recipe.
    • Cane Sugar – You can also use granulated sugar.
    • Large Eggs – These are better used at room temperature.
    • Light Corn Syrup – While this is a gingerbread loaf recipe without molasses, I do use light corn syrup, which adds to the sweetness and gives a moister texture to the loaf cake. My grandma’s recipe calls for Ribbon Cane Syrup, and it seems to be a darker syrup but not quite as dark as molasses. However if you can’t find any, a good substitute is actually molasses or light corn syrup.
    • Buttermilk – I love using buttermilk for its leavening effect, especially when I’m making a recipe gluten-free. It really helps with rise, no matter what you’re baking. Now… If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute out of milk and vinegar. Just add a tablespoon of vinegar to a glass measuring cup; then fill up to the 1 cup line with milk. Give it a little stir, and allow it to sit for just a few minutes. This makes an excellent substitute for buttermilk.
    • All-Purpose Flour – I prefer to use an unbleached all-purpose flour, like King Arthur. If you’re making gluten-free gingerbread, I recommend using a quality gluten-free flour like my favorite, and add maybe 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum, as well.
    • Baking Soda and Salt – I recommend using a good sea salt, like Redmond.
    • Ground Spices – You’ll need ground ginger and ground allspice.

    How to Make This Gingerbread Loaf Recipe without Molasses

    Before you get started mixing up the batter, be sure to pre-heat the oven to 350° F and grease 2 loaf pans.

    1. First cream (which means mix) the softened butter and sugar together in a large bowl.
    mixing batter for homemade gingerbread
    1. Then beat in the eggs.
    2. Next add the corn syrup and the buttermilk, mixing everything together well.
    3. In a separate large bowl, sift or whisk together the dry ingredients, including the flour, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, and ground allspice.
    4. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, and mix well.
    sifting and adding dry ingredients to ginger loaf batter in mixing bowl
    1. Divide and spread the batter in the prepared loaf pans.
    gingerbread loaf batter in large and mini loaf pans
    1. Bake at 350° F for about 45 minutes, or ’til a toothpick inserted in the center of each loaf comes out clean.

    Serve gingerbread loaf with butter; it’s definitely best while warm.

    sliced ginger loaf with butter on wood cutting board

    We really enjoy this gingerbread loaf recipe. It’s not too sweet, not too strong; it makes a really delicious breakfast treat or snack.

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    How can you prevent dry bread or cake?

    This is the main reason this recipe calls for light corn syrup. It gives it more of a moist texture, rather than a dry, mealy crumb. Also, watch your bake time. Ovens can vary, so your ginger loaf cake may bake faster; it may not take 45 minutes. If over baked, it can turn out dry and crumbly.

    How do you store gingerbread loaf?

    Gingerbread loaf cake can sit out on the counter; there’s no need to refrigerate it. It should keep well for 2-3 days. But good luck keeping it that long, because in my house, it’s usually gone within a day. Gobbled up!

    Can you freeze ginger loaf?

    Yes, you totally can. You can make this ahead of time and freeze it. Just allow it to cool before wrapping in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and place it in an airtight, freezer-friendly container or freezer bag. Then freeze. It should keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

    Recipe Variations

    There are a few ways you can tweak this recipe to add more oomph, flavor, different textures, etc. Here are a few of those ways…

    • Put an icing or glaze on top. You can always drizzle a simple powdered sugar icing on top; maybe even add a little citrus flavor to the drizzle by squeezing in a bit of lemon juice or orange juice to the icing. Of course, you can also make a thinner form of cream cheese frosting to drizzle on top, as well. Yum!
    • Add walnuts or pecans to the batter; then sprinkle a few chopped nuts on top before baking.
    • Add chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
    • Mix raisins or dried cranberries into the batter before baking.
    • Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients when mixing.
    • Add a teaspoon or so of vanilla extract to the batter for more flavor.
    sliced gingerbread loaf recipe without molasses on wood cutting board

    More Quick Bread and Muffin Recipes

    And if you’re looking for more holiday recipe inspiration, check out my list of The Best Christmas Recipes for Your Holiday Celebrations.

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Gingerbread Loaf Recipe without Molasses

    Grandma's homemade gingerbread loaf recipe without molasses makes moist, soft cake full of the best spiced flavor. Classic quick bread!

    • Mixer
    • Loaf Pans
    • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
    • 1 cup cane sugar
    • 3 large eggs
    • 1 cup light corn syrup
    • 1 cup buttermilk
    • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

    1. Pre-heat the oven to 350° F, and grease and flour 2 loaf pans.

    2. In a large mixing bowl, cream or mix together the softened butter and sugar.

    3. Beat in the eggs.

    4. Then add the corn syrup and buttermilk, mixing well.

    5. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, and allspice.

    6. Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, and mix well.

    7. Divide and spread the batter in the prepared loaf pans.

    8. Bake at 350° F for about 45 minutes, or 'til a toothpick inserted in the center of each loaf comes out clean.

    9. Serve while warm with a generous slather of butter.

    Breads & Muffins, Desserts
    American
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  • Chocolate Peppermint Bark

    Chocolate Peppermint Bark

    How to make the best holiday chocolate peppermint bark with just 4 ingredients, including crushed candy canes! This festive Christmas candy is a quick and easy, family favorite, Christmas dessert your family and friends will love!

    The Christmas season is definitely my favorite time of year. It’s the perfect time for Christmas recipe making, holiday baking, making holiday treats like candy cane bark, and more.

    chocolate peppermint bark in red and white polka dot bowl with candy canes on white countertop

    We enjoy gifting a few treats, and Christmas bark candy is one of the easier Christmas desserts to make, along with buckeye peanut butter balls and Ritz cracker cookies.

    Why Everyone Loves This Candy

    • Christmas bark candy is simple, quick, and easy to make and only involves a few steps.
    • It’s also very versatile because there are so many ways you can make it. You can make dark chocolate peppermint bark, white chocolate peppermint bark, milk chocolate peppermint bark, and more.
    • It’s also versatile for the fact you can add different toppings. Doesn’t have to be crushed candy canes… In fact, I’ve added diced up Hershey Mint Kisses, crushed Heath Bars, etc. We’ll talk a little bit more about variations below.
    • Just a few ingredients will make a whole pan of Christmas candy.
    • You can even make it more festive by using decorative molds with Christmas imprints. I sometimes use a non-stick silicone chocolate bark molds that have raised words that actually mold themselves into the chocolate candy, so the finished dessert says things like Merry Christmas, Season’s Greetings, etc. It really does make for a beautiful gift idea.
    • Speaking of gift ideas… Holiday chocolate bark makes a fantastic gift idea! And you can package it up in a festive little box or treat bag.
    pile of chocolate candy cane bark in red bowl

    What Is Peppermint Bark?

    Peppermint bark is a layered Christmas candy, usually layered with milk or dark chocolate, then white chocolate, and topped with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies. It’s easy to break apart and makes a sweet holiday snack that’s actually kinda addictive.

    Ingredients and Substitutions Notes:

    You’ll need 4 ingredients to make this layered or swirled peppermint bark.

    • Dark, Semi-Sweet, or Milk Chocolate Chips – I recommend using a quality chocolate chip, like Ghirardelli or Nestle. I actually use Nestle’s dairy-free chocolate chips, and they work just fine for candy. You can also use the actual candy making chocolate bars that are usually available in the baking aisle at the grocery store, things like Baker’s Chocolate; I think Ghirardelli has a line of these too. You can use almond bark if preferred. But I’ve found that chocolate chips are just as easy, and they taste good too.
    • Peppermint Extract – This is going to give a li’l extra peppermint flavor to your candy bark.
    • White Chocolate Chips – A layer of this is almost like a festive layer of snow on top of your candy.
    • Candy Canes – Or you can use peppermint candies.

    How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Bark

    There are just a few steps you need to take to make this wonderful candy cane bark. But first let’s talk about the chocolate.

    How to Melt Chocolate for Candy Bark

    Depending on the chocolate you decide to use, you can melt it a couple different ways:

    • Melt it using a double boiler on the stove – This is basically a pan inside of another pan with boiling water in the bottom pan. It allows for more even melting without burning, and it also keeps the chocolate warm for layering.
    • Melt it in the microwave – This is usually the route I go. I usually melt it in a medium sized glass bowl or glass measuring cup. Heat for 1 minute and stir; then continue heating for 15 seconds at a time, stirring after each heating. Stop heating just before all the chocolate is melted; stir it until it’s completely melted.
    melted milk chocolate and white chocolate in glass bowls with rubber spatula for holiday chocolate bark

    How to Crush the Candy Canes

    I usually use the smaller candy canes, as they’re easier to crush into smaller pieces. That or you can use peppermint candies.

    1. It’s easiest to place the candy canes in a Ziploc bag, and seal it without air.
    2. Then crush the candy canes using a rolling pin. Just roll over the canes, or slap the candy canes with the rolling pin like you would a gavel on a desktop.

    How to Make Candy Cane Bark

    Now that your ingredients are prepped, you’re ready to layer and make the candy bark. If not using a candy mold, be sure to line a cookie sheet with parchment paper (that overlaps the cookie sheet by a couple inches) before getting started.

    1. Mix the melted dark or milk chocolate with 1/2 teaspoon of the peppermint extract. Then spread the peppermint chocolate layer into the parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Allow this chocolate layer to set for 10-15 minutes in the fridge or freezer.
    2. Mix 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate. Then spread the white chocolate onto the set chocolate layer. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes all over the top of the white chocolate.
    3. Then allow the bark to set in the fridge or freezer for another 15-20 minutes before breaking it apart to serve.
    steps for how to make chocolate peppermint bark by layering melted milk chocolate, melted white chocolate with crushed candy canes, and then breaking apart after set into pieces in red bowl

    How to Break Candy Bark Up

    If you’re using a parchment paper lined cookie sheet…

    1. Allow the candy to come back to room temperature.
    2. Then lift the parchment paper out of the pan, and loosen it from the candy. It should peel right off.
    3. Then just break the bark off by hand, or you can cut it with a knife. It’ll be all different shapes and sizes, so no need to worry if corners break off or what have you. Just have fun with it and enjoy this delectable Christmas candy together.

    If you’re using a candy mold, the mold pretty much peels right off the bark, and then you can use a knife to break the chocolate. With this step, you want to be careful because the corners are easy to break.

    candy cane bark in red bowl and on Christmas plaid towel on white countertop with candy canes

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    How should you store chocolate peppermint bark?

    While it can sit out at room temp, it won’t last as long. I recommend storing it in an airtight container or Christmas tin in the fridge. It should keep for a good 2 weeks or more. When I was a kid, the stairwell to my room (and my room) had no heat or insulation, so we stored all our Christmas goodies like this in that cold stairwell… As a kid, that was the best place ever.

    Can you freeze Christmas bark candy?

    Yes, you can. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container so it doesn’t get freezer burn. It should keep for 6 months or more.

    Let’s Talk Recipe Variations

    This is the fun part… The good stuff… I love how versatile this recipe can be!

    • Instead of crushed candy canes, use chopped or crushed Hershey Mint Kisses, Butterfinger candies, Heath Bar candies, peanut butter cups, etc.
    • Instead of adding peppermint extract, think caramel extract for a dark salted caramel bark.
    • Make it all dark chocolate peppermint bark, or all milk chocolate peppermint bark. Or make it all white chocolate peppermint bark. Both layers the same chocolate.

    Really, the options are endless with this.

    pile of white chocolate peppermint bark in red bowl and on plaid Christmas towel on white countertop with candy canes

    More Favorite Holiday Recipes

    If you want more Christmas candy recipes and other holiday treats, you’ll enjoy these for sure…

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Chocolate Peppermint Bark

    How to make holiday chocolate peppermint bark with 4 ingredients, including candy canes! Quick and easy, family favorite, Christmas dessert!

    • Glass Bowls
    • Rubber Spatula
    • Parchment Paper
    • Cookie Sheet
    • 12 ounces milk chocolate chips
    • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (divided)
    • 12 ounces white chocolate chips
    • 1/3 cup crushed candy canes ((about 6-8 small candy canes))

    How to Melt the Chocolate:

    1. in separate medium sized glass bowls or glass measuring cups, heat the chocolate chips for 1 minute and stir.

    2. Continue heating for 15 seconds at a time, stirring after each heating.

    3. Stop heating just before all the chocolate is melted, and stir it until it's completely melted.

    How to Crush the Candy Canes:

    1. I usually use the smaller candy canes, as they're easier to crush into smaller pieces. It's easiest to place the candy canes in a Ziploc bag, and seal it without air.

    2. Then crush the candy canes using a rolling pin. Just roll over the canes, or slap the candy canes with the rolling pin like you would a gavel on a desktop.

    How to Layer Candy Cane Bark:

    1. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper (that overlaps the cookie sheet by a couple inches) before getting started.

    2. Mix the melted milk chocolate with 1/2 teaspoon of the peppermint extract.

    3. Then spread the peppermint chocolate layer into the parchment paper lined cookie sheet. Allow this chocolate layer to set for 10-15 minutes in the fridge or freezer.

    4. Mix 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate.

    5. Then spread the white chocolate onto the set chocolate layer.

    6. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes all over the top of the white chocolate.

    7. Then allow the bark to set in the fridge or freezer for another 15-20 minutes.

    How to Break Candy Bark Up:

    1. Allow the candy to come back to room temperature.

    2. Lift the parchment paper out of the pan, and loosen it from the candy. It should peel right off.

    3. Then just break the bark off by hand, or you can cut it with a knife. It'll be all different shapes and sizes, so no need to worry if corners break off or what have you. Just have fun with it and enjoy this delectable Christmas candy together.

    While candy bark can sit out at room temp, it won’t last as long. I recommend storing it in an airtight container or Christmas tin in the fridge. It should keep for a good 2 weeks or more. 

    Candy, Desserts
    American
    candy bark, candy cane bark, chocolate peppermint bark, christmas bark candy, dark chocolate peppermint bark, holiday chocolate bark, milk chocolate peppermint bark, swirled peppermint bark, white chocolate peppermint bark
  • Cinnamon Stuffed Pears without Oats

    Cinnamon Stuffed Pears without Oats

    Learn how to turn fresh pear halves into baked stuffed pears, filled with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans. This is an easy dessert recipe anyone can make and oh so delicious!

    My mom has a pear tree in her front yard, and every year she shares those pears with all the kids. One season I came up with this delicious buttery recipe for cinnamon baked pears, and I’ve made them ever since.

    baked cinnamon stuffed pears on baking sheet

    I love the buttery crispy topping on each individual pear half. It’s like a mini, personal-sized pear crisp with every bite.

    Why You’ll Love This Recipe Too

    • One of my favorite things about this dessert is you can change ingredients to fit any dietary need. For example, I’m gluten-free, so I sub gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour. You can also sub dairy-free butter for the butter in the recipe.
    • Speaking of ingredients, there are only 6 ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.
    • This makes 12 personal-sized desserts with just 6 pears. That makes it a really easy and simple dessert you can make for a dinner party or get together.
    • Again, that buttery crispy topping; when you dig into the pear with your fork, the pear is all tender ooey gooey with that wonderful sweet topping… It’s so delicious!

    Ingredients and Substitutions Notes

    • Salted Butter – Real butter is best, but if you need dairy-free, you can sub a dairy-free butter instead. I also recommend salted butter for the flavor it gives to each stuffed pear. Just be sure to soften it ahead of time.
    • All-Purpose Flour – If you’re like me and need to make this gluten-free, just sub a good gluten-free flour. I also recommend unbleached flour.
    • Cane Sugar – You can also use granulated sugar.
    • Light Brown Sugar
    • Ground Cinnamon – I love the flavor cinnamon adds to the topping mixture; you can also add nutmeg if you want.
    • Pears – Let’s talk about the best pears for baking below. I highly recommend Bartlett, as they’re usually easily available.
    • Pecans – These are optional, and you can sub walnuts if preferred.

    What Kind of Pears Are Best for Baking?

    I’m pretty sure my mom’s pear tree is a Bartlett pear tree, and Bartletts bake quite nicely. If they’re a little underripe, no worries… You just may need to bake them a tad bit longer than riper pears.

    Bartletts have a sweet flavor and soft, juicy texture when baked. In fact, the topping can make the top of the pear quite ooey gooey, but when you dig in with a fork, you’ll find a soft yet firm texture below, making it the perfect combination. These pears make the best oven roasted pears, in my opinion.

    Other good choices for baking might include…

    • Anjou
    • Bosc

    How Ripe Do Pears Need to Be for Baking?

    You want pears to be ripe but not overripe; when they start to change color and show bruising, they’re probably starting to get a bit overripe. While I’ve baked them in this condition (quite a bit, actually), keep in mind they won’t be quite as pretty, and they could fall apart.

    Instead I recommend waiting ’til the pears are almost perfectly ripe, meaning they’re slightly soft to the touch but still a bit firm. They will also have a pleasant fruity smell when they’re just about right for baking.

    Pears ripen on the inside first, so when they just start to soften, they’re likely ready to use. When you bake the pears, they’ll acquire that soft, juicy texture you want baked pears to have.

    How to Make Stuffed Pears

    The first step is to mix up the crumb topping. The topping I use is inspired by my Dutch apple crumb pie recipe.

    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon together with a pastry blender.

    How to Assemble and Bake the Pears…

    1. Cut the pears in half, and scoop the center of each pear out with a melon baller, making sure to scoop out all the seeds. Place all the halves on a baking sheet.
    2. Fill in each center with the crumb topping. Then sprinkle more on top, covering each pear with the topping.
    3. Sprinkle with chopped pecans, if desired.
    4. Bake at 375° F for about 45 minutes, or until the crumbled topping is golden and the pear is tender when poked with a fork.
    steps for how to make stuffed pears, including scooping out center of pear halves, filling with cinnamon topping, sprinkling with pecans, and baked on baking sheet

    To serve, top with whipped topping or vanilla ice cream, if desired, and serve while warm.

    More Topping Ideas for Cinnamon Baked Pears

    I talk about oats a bit in the FAQ’s below, but you can also add other toppings, including…

    • Cranberries
    • Sliced almonds
    • Walnuts
    • Goat cheese
    • Cream cheese
    • Brie cheese
    • Nutmeg and other spices, like apple pie spice

    Expert Tips and Recipe FAQ’s

    Can you overcook pears?

    Yes, you can, so you’ll want to keep an eye on them and follow instructions for baking in the recipe card. Otherwise, your pears could turn out to be quite mushy and more gooey than intended. I usually do a fork test when testing whether they’re done in the oven… Stick a fork in the pear; if it’s tender and easy to poke with a fork, it’s likely done.

    Can I use oats, including instant oats?

    Yes, you can; I just prefer to make stuffed pears without oats. But yes, you can add oats; in fact, if you want to add oats, you might cut the flour in half, then sub in 1/2 cup oats. Instant oats will bake faster, but they’ll work just as well as regular rolled oats.

    How should you store stuffed pears?

    Place the cinnamon baked pears in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They should keep for 3 to 5 days.

    cinnamon baked pears on baking sheet

    More Fall Desserts

    If you love this cinnamon baked pears dessert, you’ll love these other autumn desserts too…

    If you try this recipe, why not leave a star rating in the recipe card right below and/or a review in the comment section further down the page? I always appreciate your feedback. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. And subscribe to my email list too!

    Cinnamon Stuffed Pears

    How to turn fresh pear halves into baked stuffed pears, filled with brown sugar, cinnamon, and pecans. Easy dessert recipe anyone can make!

    • Mixing Bowl
    • Melon Baller
    • Baking Sheet
    • 16 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup cane sugar
    • 3/4 cup light brown sugar
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 6 whole pears
    • 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon together with a pastry blender.

    2. Cut the pears in half, and scoop the center of each pear out with a melon baller, being sure to scoop out all the seeds. Place all the halves on a baking sheet.

    3. Fill in each center with the crumb topping. Then sprinkle more on top, covering each pear with the topping.

    4. Sprinkle with chopped pecans, if desired.

    5. Bake at 375° F for about 45 minutes, or until the crumbled topping is golden and the pear is tender when poked with a fork.

    6. To serve, top with whipped topping or vanilla ice cream, if desired, and serve while warm.

    Be sure not to overcook the pears. Otherwise, your pears could turn out to be quite mushy and more gooey than intended. I usually do a fork test when testing whether they’re done in the oven… Stick a fork in the pear; if it’s tender and easy to poke with a fork, it’s likely done.

    How should you store stuffed pears?
    Place the cinnamon baked pears in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They should keep for 3 to 5 days.

    Desserts
    American
    cinnamon baked pears, stuffed pears