tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51881150160300972792024-03-05T16:25:18.227-05:00Cookies & CocktailsA culinary ode to a life filled with cookies and cocktailscheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-28100343406338502352011-04-24T16:15:00.000-04:002011-04-24T16:15:16.553-04:00So how much butter is in this cake?Happy Easter to all. We had a DELICIOUS meal today...tons of food as always...and great company. For Easter, I attempted to make Mary's Hot Cross Buns, but once again (I had attempted them a few years back), they came out like hockey pucks. I don't know if it is the recipe or something I am doing. I was reminded by my cousin Alison that Mary's Hot Cross Buns were always a little hard, but something is definitely not right. I was able to cover this mistake by preparing another non Mary recipe. I promise I will post some of her recipes soon. For dessert, I made Paula Deen's Coconut Lime Cake - A light sorbet as we say in our family...which usually means a recipe has a sh** load of butter, fat, or other unhealthy substitute.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><strong><em>Coconut-Lime Cake</em></strong></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Makes 1 (9-inch, 3 layer) cake</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">11/2 cups butter, softened</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 cups Domino Granulated Sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5 Large Eggland's Best Eggs, separated</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 teaspoon coconut extract</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">31/2 cups all-purpose flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 teaspoon baking powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 t baking soda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 teaspoon salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 1/4 cups coconut milk</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup buttermilk</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Luscious Lime Frosting (recipe follows)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray (9-inch) cake pans with nonstick baking spray with flour.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar at medium speed with a mixer until fluffy. Add egg yolks and extracts,beating until combined.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. In a medium bowl, combine flour,baking powder, baking soda, and salt.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. In a small bowl, combine coconut milk and buttermilk. Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with coconut milk mixture, beginningand ending with flour mixture, beating just until combined after each addition.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. In a medium bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold intobatter. Spoon batter into prepared pans, and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes. Remove from pans, and cool completely on wire racks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">6. Spread Luscious Lime Frosting between layers and on top and sides of cake. Press coconut flakes around edge of cake. Garnish with fresh raspberries and lime slices; if desired. Chill until ready to serve.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong><em>Luscious Lime Frosting</em></strong></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Makes about 5 Cups</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup butter, softened</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 teaspoon lime zest</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 cup fresh lime juice</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5 cups Domino Confectioners' Sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 (8 ounce) container frozen </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">whipped topping, thawed</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. In a large bowl, beat butter, lime zest, and lime juice at medium speedwith a mixer until combined. Gradually add confectioners' sugar, beating until smooth. Add whipped topping, beating </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">until combined.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVyztfJ1tu4BySY7VTumbz69jJicTiztChih6ZxGhdCnxodOnQoLtBypGm5CoFO_AcCPghyphenhyphenA1WhiK30gz-MhZblwMiKDm60LzohZZ6yMdEVnXK11ZJQrrelDL5AnWPmopk1crbtyvM_3y/s1600/DSCN1689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVyztfJ1tu4BySY7VTumbz69jJicTiztChih6ZxGhdCnxodOnQoLtBypGm5CoFO_AcCPghyphenhyphenA1WhiK30gz-MhZblwMiKDm60LzohZZ6yMdEVnXK11ZJQrrelDL5AnWPmopk1crbtyvM_3y/s320/DSCN1689.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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My aunt Carol gave me an "Easter" gift today - The Better Homes & Gardens Cookbook that Mary gave her 40 years ago! My mother made a comment of how it looks like new. Carol's response was "Well I don't cook so I never really opened it." This will definitely get used now! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIxFYKk6GLMJFi2je_KnGrtZWdM9ghgMxTiQ-BTFFmTP1ePUqGozfIkZBVlbnwHqJvvyM2YF4udp_SuCBDN5L5-_37ZU-DMxlhaVfunLy0TR6GdiFzC1hSrThSyGYbrvgwouwXFdoN7XF/s1600/DSCN1690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilIxFYKk6GLMJFi2je_KnGrtZWdM9ghgMxTiQ-BTFFmTP1ePUqGozfIkZBVlbnwHqJvvyM2YF4udp_SuCBDN5L5-_37ZU-DMxlhaVfunLy0TR6GdiFzC1hSrThSyGYbrvgwouwXFdoN7XF/s320/DSCN1690.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-30060833836768036892011-04-21T13:40:00.001-04:002011-04-21T13:41:58.182-04:00Gluttonously UnnecessaryIt has been awhile since my last post. Life seems to have gotten in the way of baking the past few weekends! I have had some time to catch up on work/de-stress over this vacation, so it was back into the kitchen. Today I wanted to try a recent recipe I found on a blog I follow. It isn't a Mary recipe, but I felt like it needed to be posted because it was so absolutely unnecessary and gluttonous...Mary would be proud.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Oreo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies!</span><br />
<div class="paper-mid"><div class="paper-text">2 sticks softened butter<br />
3/4 Cup packed light brown sugar<br />
1 Cup granulated sugar<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1 Tablespoon pure vanilla<br />
3 1/2 Cups all purpose flour<br />
1 teaspoon salt<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
10 oz bag chocolate chips<br />
1 bag Oreo Cookies <br />
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a stand or electric mixer cream butter and sugars until well combined. Add in eggs and vanilla until well combined.<br />
2. In a separate bowl mix the flour, salt and baking soda. Slowly add to wet ingredients along with chocolate chips until just combined. Using a cookie scoop take one scoop of cookie dough and place on top of an Oreo Cookie. Take another scoop of dough and place on bottom of Oreo Cookie. Seal edges together by pressing and cupping in hand until Oreo Cookie is enclosed with dough.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9c_kuodwVGqRWd5hUenEqphS2JtUS7z63q0hormcENsQcgUxIQ-rmAfa5TjA0jb4MVnWd25Cs6Yj1r_CMHu0GVSyeAPRQFmwZZ2k8HSzGO8r2vsGOcM7X4BMvjaAFvgwVlLg7pNRPW02/s1600/DSCN1668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX9c_kuodwVGqRWd5hUenEqphS2JtUS7z63q0hormcENsQcgUxIQ-rmAfa5TjA0jb4MVnWd25Cs6Yj1r_CMHu0GVSyeAPRQFmwZZ2k8HSzGO8r2vsGOcM7X4BMvjaAFvgwVlLg7pNRPW02/s320/DSCN1668.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <br />
Place onto a parchment or silpat lined baking sheet and bake cookies 9-13 minutes or until cookies are baked to your liking. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to cooling rack. <br />
Makes about 2 dozen VERY LARGE Cookies </div></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEwA59Bpq4wuhCZPLLmw1e_Oiw9SBfnzb1bbM8gQQu6sk9POdBr6oBi_mZO0ouwFSYbvr05xN-dZUc9kvCtZluwygxNaMX9csdzuhvrmfWboCRccdOPlmqJCrpt6fQPZJOO0R7yUeYKlrG/s1600/DSCN1670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEwA59Bpq4wuhCZPLLmw1e_Oiw9SBfnzb1bbM8gQQu6sk9POdBr6oBi_mZO0ouwFSYbvr05xN-dZUc9kvCtZluwygxNaMX9csdzuhvrmfWboCRccdOPlmqJCrpt6fQPZJOO0R7yUeYKlrG/s320/DSCN1670.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgWZI2_3GGBYw5vwHisxxlB9nes0WHVS9UfpO2Sizq3aSnFeHBm0Juouel6TKg-UUCIaNNFt4utMdDkUXXBBUyI6Qu35W7mNPtmvinee_WUZ9DyY0HfxL0D9EJRrLygm6vrQcbeAZuiFe0/s1600/DSCN1676.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgWZI2_3GGBYw5vwHisxxlB9nes0WHVS9UfpO2Sizq3aSnFeHBm0Juouel6TKg-UUCIaNNFt4utMdDkUXXBBUyI6Qu35W7mNPtmvinee_WUZ9DyY0HfxL0D9EJRrLygm6vrQcbeAZuiFe0/s320/DSCN1676.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM5UL7jbRvZgTcTmFmdZHFN3gIrVHYvEA5EkIFKfvdTw0zPmybgWDzDz7-4R8q2v9g7S0YaJA9QVOeyFtQRYcuAr3p91FGjYxg0D6-nPec37EE2Qt21I1107YuZZPcODhlD8hsMPTqUbbL/s1600/DSCN1679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM5UL7jbRvZgTcTmFmdZHFN3gIrVHYvEA5EkIFKfvdTw0zPmybgWDzDz7-4R8q2v9g7S0YaJA9QVOeyFtQRYcuAr3p91FGjYxg0D6-nPec37EE2Qt21I1107YuZZPcODhlD8hsMPTqUbbL/s320/DSCN1679.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Two Words - Gluttonously AWESOME!</span></div><br />
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<h2><br />
</h2>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-43068180409414108982011-03-12T18:53:00.000-05:002011-03-12T18:53:33.891-05:00Dutch Apple CakeIt has been very hectic in our household, so I haven't been able to bake until today! I wanted to use up some of the apples we had so I made Dutch Apple Cake.<br />
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Dutch Apple Cake</span><br />
(Magazine recipe cut out and taped onto recipe card)<br />
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Flour, 2 cups<br />
Baking Powder, 3 tsp<br />
Salt, 1/2 tsp<br />
Sugar, 2 tablespoons<br />
Shortening 2 tablespoons<br />
1 egg, beaten<br />
Milk, 2/3 cup<br />
Apples, sliced, 2 cups<br />
Butter or margarine, softened 2 tablespoons<br />
Sugar, 1/4 cup<br />
Cinnamon, 1 tsp<br />
<br />
Sift flour, measure; add baking powder, salt and sugar; sift into mixing bowl. Add shortening and cut in with pastry blender or two knives until mixture looks like coarse meal. Combine egg and milk; stir into flour mixture with for. Spread in greased pan (8X8). Pare, core, and lice apples. Arrange slices in rows and press into top of dough; spread with butter. Mix sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over apples. Bake in hot oven for 400 degrees for 35 minutes. <br />
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This came out great. The topping had a little crunch to it. The cake was more of a cornbread consistency and not overly sweet! YUM. I zumba-ed my a** off for 2 hours today at the gym, so I indulged in a piece of this tonight :) <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-42849068550202254352011-02-26T21:33:00.000-05:002011-02-26T21:33:04.645-05:00The Academy Awards - What a productionTomorrow marks the night of the 83rd Academy Awards. I have always been interested in this annual event, thanks to my mother - the ultimate queen of movie stars and their gossip. Years ago, my mother and her best friend Kate, took me and my friend Katie to London. While there, we stumbled across the Bristish Academy Awards aka The BAFTAS. Somehow, Kate and my mom scored tickets to the red carpet and we set front row in the grand stands while all of the celebrities made their grand entrance. We were the only (obnoxious) Americans there, so we scored a ton of autographs and photos:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSCfQmhtjXd7N3Muvvsajeb9f4ix2BJcvziT9IIlX9ZwSE9yLJykXftrB8rTU9y3BrByf87jsFKC535s6IWPHZQLChxeWx-9WAeFsJvMMToip0OdruWhaYjqOalLgEPt_dOWqTJe5wV9kV/s1600/scan0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSCfQmhtjXd7N3Muvvsajeb9f4ix2BJcvziT9IIlX9ZwSE9yLJykXftrB8rTU9y3BrByf87jsFKC535s6IWPHZQLChxeWx-9WAeFsJvMMToip0OdruWhaYjqOalLgEPt_dOWqTJe5wV9kV/s320/scan0007.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFRSgJrx4D6CnVogRZdj1UIgsOwphv2wheuidSZpkzZccsvEf5jinnoMA3Cyh6Ci7C3rGtGJzmaM2lK5HaoJ5NyvWsqsk7Xn5wHBm5mLRv3FRgfFHz6nBEhBiG9eyHSnKh_zLZvV9ePUu/s1600/scan0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbFRSgJrx4D6CnVogRZdj1UIgsOwphv2wheuidSZpkzZccsvEf5jinnoMA3Cyh6Ci7C3rGtGJzmaM2lK5HaoJ5NyvWsqsk7Xn5wHBm5mLRv3FRgfFHz6nBEhBiG9eyHSnKh_zLZvV9ePUu/s320/scan0008.jpg" width="215" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZhrrnXVI136m8mGMGZwujCJGSz-p3y6Q-4ixFw975zkZjnW55646rIkw33btwBHMKpE_MQy5j7yB2xnAuVvRqxbbT6zBHyDfpvaQHa8xdkf3xUGfEj_BKelledFVao-LpTDj5OKYzwmxs/s1600/scan0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZhrrnXVI136m8mGMGZwujCJGSz-p3y6Q-4ixFw975zkZjnW55646rIkw33btwBHMKpE_MQy5j7yB2xnAuVvRqxbbT6zBHyDfpvaQHa8xdkf3xUGfEj_BKelledFVao-LpTDj5OKYzwmxs/s320/scan0012.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>The night ended with my mom and Kate somehow making it into the BAFTA's after party and scoring a bunch of gift bags and a chocolate centerpiece...don't ask.<br />
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In addition to the festivities in California, tomorrow also marks the annual Oscar's celebration held by Kate and her husband.It is a fantastic party where guests come in optional costume, dine on amazing food, drink fantastic beverages (naturally), and mock/cheer/jeer the celebrities and their movies. <br />
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I wanted to make a dessert fit for an Academy, so I chose Mary's Prize Chocolate Cake and Rich Chocolate Frosting. Like the making of a movie, this culinary feat was a production!<br />
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I started off by making the cake:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Prize Chocolate Cake:</span><br />
(written by Mary on lined recipe card) <br />
<br />
2 cups brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup butter<br />
2 eggs, beaten<br />
3 squares chocolate<br />
1 cup sour milk (1 cup milk & 1 tbsp vinegar)<br />
2 cups sifted flour<br />
1 tsp soda<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
Cream butter and sugar. Add beaten egg, melted chocolate and vanilla. Beat Thoroughly. Add sour milk. Sift soda, salt, and flour. Add to wet mixture. Beat thoroughly. Place batter into two 9 inch buttered and floured cake pans. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes. <br />
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My original idea was to make chocolate Oscar statues (using a fantastic Oscar cookie cutter given to me by my mom's dear friend Sue) and decorate them with a gold colored frosting. I found a recipe for salted caramel frosting - PERFECT....Not. The frosting tasted like a caramel-y/salty stick of butter. Plan B - Mary's Rich Chocolate Frosting<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Rich Chocolate Frosting</span><br />
(recipe cut out of magazine and taped onto recipe card)<br />
<br />
4 oz (squares) unsweetened chocolate<br />
4 tablespoons unsalted butter<br />
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar<br />
1/2 cup strong coffee<br />
Melt chocolate and butter together. Place in mixing bowl and add powdered sugar. Mix well. Add coffee and continue to mix (I let the stand mixer mix this up for @ 2 minutes). Add additional powdered sugar if needed. This frosting will be more of a ganache consistency, but it will harden up. <br />
<br />
I started in on other projects around the apartment, letting the cakes cool a little too long. By the time I took them out of the pan, only one came out in its entirety. Crap! I decided to change my plans again - Plan C: Round 9" cake with Oscar Statue. I cut out a statue from the crappy cake, decorated it with chocolate frosting and gold/silver non-nonpareils and placed it on top of the 9" cake. I give all of those bakers on the cake shows a lot of credit. This was not easy, but I finally had a finished product that I was content with<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oNwOez7AUbFY_2ZbYM_l4Zm4NUoZkXf4huiRuiox9RGuxFVX7ONTFuJ_hjHOtcRh7_6fuHi7CYiWbkCEdACCLBgYLm1NtVQiEe8VzEhC74sSd3fEn9yNR8ZtfTuRr6MIi7vC_I942pM3/s1600/DSCN1655.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6oNwOez7AUbFY_2ZbYM_l4Zm4NUoZkXf4huiRuiox9RGuxFVX7ONTFuJ_hjHOtcRh7_6fuHi7CYiWbkCEdACCLBgYLm1NtVQiEe8VzEhC74sSd3fEn9yNR8ZtfTuRr6MIi7vC_I942pM3/s320/DSCN1655.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1w1Qb2NyguXb9kHADv5fToj1sqbvk86L5UVNcNYVXb-1-CLRIdQaKsNxJS57IzymxTQxsYg02wnsrF7KOXzw13sN1l3h3JDVjfJfW5V-Z6QxY4M5bh131CbhwxjF5vp3nu2HMU_fDwjCm/s1600/DSCN1656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1w1Qb2NyguXb9kHADv5fToj1sqbvk86L5UVNcNYVXb-1-CLRIdQaKsNxJS57IzymxTQxsYg02wnsrF7KOXzw13sN1l3h3JDVjfJfW5V-Z6QxY4M5bh131CbhwxjF5vp3nu2HMU_fDwjCm/s320/DSCN1656.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Matt and I just got back from seeing The King's Speech. What an absolutely amazing movie! It MUST win best picture, Colin Firth MUST win best actor, and Geoffrey Rush MUST win best supporting actor!cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-18037148624112585772011-02-21T13:56:00.000-05:002011-02-21T13:56:34.606-05:00A little history lesson<div style="color: black;">In trying to decide what to make today I read a list of recipes aloud to Matt, with the final decision being Cornbread (his choice). This particular recipe for Durgin Park Cornbread comes with a history lesson:</div><div style="color: blue;"><br />
</div><div style="color: blue;"></div><div style="color: blue;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin72vQNAs3E57OO_H71WNlZ47kxAgmnGXVcK8xIJttKlIYtQ9b9nrsNGs1ECeq3BUxFkIosqyaYjlJMszgSTP8TWdR0Gx0VTU01onQKEulVLHDcbf_LP17lPwSiaKyNnSbx6TA46TfgT9R/s1600/durgin+park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin72vQNAs3E57OO_H71WNlZ47kxAgmnGXVcK8xIJttKlIYtQ9b9nrsNGs1ECeq3BUxFkIosqyaYjlJMszgSTP8TWdR0Gx0VTU01onQKEulVLHDcbf_LP17lPwSiaKyNnSbx6TA46TfgT9R/s1600/durgin+park.jpg" /></a><b>Durgin-Park</b> is a centuries-old restaurant at 340 at Faneuil Hill Marketplace in downtown Boston. The Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau states that it has been a "landmark since 1827",<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-0"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durgin-Park#cite_note-0"><span></span></a></sup> and it continues to be a popular tourist destination within Quincy Market. The restaurant has entrances on both of its facades (Faneuil Hall and Clinton Street).</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjgbh4rTh1KCn7wBdq3P5FjFj2YdtDo29Z2KWOWfSAue0INhO4neWXUFjIP4w3FmGbS-nwUCHhzKZ4t2bwxx0ZJywbA6FdJRFmp7fwJf13LVUMfUkRZNmsuFttO5od0jRMR8miHDN2dvDj/s1600/durgin+park+cornbread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjgbh4rTh1KCn7wBdq3P5FjFj2YdtDo29Z2KWOWfSAue0INhO4neWXUFjIP4w3FmGbS-nwUCHhzKZ4t2bwxx0ZJywbA6FdJRFmp7fwJf13LVUMfUkRZNmsuFttO5od0jRMR8miHDN2dvDj/s1600/durgin+park+cornbread.jpg" /></a> <span style="color: blue;">In keeping with its long history, the concept of Durgin-Park maintains the tradition of communal seating at long tables. The menu is designed to offer traditional New England-style fare with a concentration on seafoods, chowders, broiled meats, and broiled dinners. The service is also a partial hold-over from the time of its founding as the waitstaff have been encouraged to adopt a "surly" attitude and "backtalk" the clientele.</span><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-2" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durgin-Park#cite_note-2"><span></span></a></sup> <span style="color: blue;">Another sign of it heritage, is that it has only changed head chefs a handful of times in its history. ~ Wikipedia</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: blue;"></span></div><br />
I have never been to this restaurant, but I could see how Mary would be a fan since she was never one to pass up seafood, chowder, or broiled dinners!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Durgin Park Cornbread</span><br />
(written by my aunt Kathy - excellent handwriting - on lined recipe card)<br />
3/4 cup sugar<br />
2 eggs<br />
3/4 tsp salt<br />
2 cups flour<br />
1 cup cornmeal (grandulated)<br />
3 tsp Baking Powder<br />
1 tbsp melted butter<br />
1 1/2 cups milk<br />
<br />
Mix sugar with beaten eggs. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together. Add cornmeal, melted butter & milk. Beat up quickly and bake in buttered pan. Use very hot oven<br />
<br />
So besides the history of the restaurant that I had to look up, I also had to research the oven temp and cooking time of this recipe. Some recipes called for a 450 degree oven, but this cooked the bottom to quickly and left the middle uncooked. Other recipes called for a 375 degree oven for 35-40 minutes. I concluded that baking the cornbread in an oven between 375 degrees for @ 25-30 minutes was perfect!<br />
<br />
Mine browned on the top because I was experimenting with the different temps/times, but it still came out delicious! I cooked mine in a 8X8 pan, but you could also do a 9X9 and reduce the cooking by a little. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkurS66Inz4qmjZCC6KrzIaJHXjBWhCzRVsg4tK0TBGMMmBetne7k02wQSS-Wnoa2Mthglh_r6bkQBu-_kOl0bG3AVS8sDJdtrv8HCPnNplbrxgzhCVZAGRzSknnGf-Flg9d48-zbRjeZk/s1600/DSCN1650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkurS66Inz4qmjZCC6KrzIaJHXjBWhCzRVsg4tK0TBGMMmBetne7k02wQSS-Wnoa2Mthglh_r6bkQBu-_kOl0bG3AVS8sDJdtrv8HCPnNplbrxgzhCVZAGRzSknnGf-Flg9d48-zbRjeZk/s320/DSCN1650.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-90539891019432332942011-02-12T14:12:00.000-05:002011-02-12T14:12:30.277-05:00If you can't beat 'em, might as well join 'emI actually had a full week of school! It was tiring...I was starting to get used to having short weeks.<br />
<br />
Valentine's Day is on Monday. V-Day is one of the holidays that I appreciated when I was little for the school art projects, friend valentine cards, and gifts from my parents. It lost its muster in my teens and early 20s. This is the first year, however, that I am back in the cupid spirit. I owe this in part to my wonderful students and their excitement for EVERY holiday. I had one last week who was celebrating his favorite holiday, Groundhog's day! We have a school dance on Monday, which is always a wonderful time and the students are very excited to decorate and give their friends and parents gifts, so rather than fight it, I have decided to get in the spirit. If you can't beat 'em, might as well join 'em.<br />
<br />
and might as well make Valentine's Day cookies. I found the PERFECT recipe in Mary's recipe box...<br />
<div style="color: red;"><br />
</div><div style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: large;">Heartthrob Cookie Dough</span></div><div style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">(newspaper recipe taped onto recipe card)</span></span></span></div><ul><li class="bg1"><strong>1</strong> cup shortening</li>
<li class="bg2"> <strong>1</strong> cup granulated sugar</li>
<li class="bg1"> <strong>1/2</strong> teaspoon baking powder</li>
<li class="bg2"> <strong>1/8</strong> teaspoon salt</li>
<li class="bg1"> <strong>1</strong> egg</li>
<li class="bg2"> <strong>1</strong> teaspoon vanilla</li>
<li class="bg1"> <strong>1/4</strong> teaspoon peppermint extract</li>
<li class="bg2"> <strong>2</strong> cups all-purpose flour</li>
</ul>Beat shortening in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt; beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in egg, vanilla, and peppermint extract until combined. Beat in as much flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in remaining flour with a wooden spoon. Roll dough on floured surface and cut into heart shapes. Place cutouts 1 inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in a 375 degree F oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden. Transfer to wire racks and cool. Makes 30 cookies. <br />
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2E0Dlvn0CnZW4i6bd9XAVwbLbgGJfByzko29xFEYcMas_MBPqBg4kanhEjnkjY2hPIMWOvl2wsVvlBMqEupz8c_30hc7W4lTCX7ciekkA75LGjREha8Vc6XHGQ0kUCEccOEwi3zmUlS5y/s1600/DSCN1634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2E0Dlvn0CnZW4i6bd9XAVwbLbgGJfByzko29xFEYcMas_MBPqBg4kanhEjnkjY2hPIMWOvl2wsVvlBMqEupz8c_30hc7W4lTCX7ciekkA75LGjREha8Vc6XHGQ0kUCEccOEwi3zmUlS5y/s320/DSCN1634.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I used one of Mary's cookie cutters to make the hearts...</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht82I7M1hPn5S6iCKrpTb0BOTwO114-Cs4iRIzy677bdS6zzAWyi9tk6HavhpWkptvLB-pGwrJ90Cl5XIbZweWektEWoPYs_HidsWNocMpDNjP_w3K0JAhD_ps_o5aHtso9C6N3BYAZZo_/s1600/DSCN1630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht82I7M1hPn5S6iCKrpTb0BOTwO114-Cs4iRIzy677bdS6zzAWyi9tk6HavhpWkptvLB-pGwrJ90Cl5XIbZweWektEWoPYs_HidsWNocMpDNjP_w3K0JAhD_ps_o5aHtso9C6N3BYAZZo_/s320/DSCN1630.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"> ...you can tell that it has been used with love for many years!</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEics_8c2uzJ2DoOc-dtyl9hyphenhyphen1QIhVC2VOYuOPEZKhyG04VWsU2g7ZWEvvKuBy9tO50hrBtkTbt-wqMMcvbWAw8Bi_o2SM2d6y7GDy3buQY0Y1UcFEaDyIR_VlsRWTzHR6AIGR7FGeaM6rIb/s1600/DSCN1631.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEics_8c2uzJ2DoOc-dtyl9hyphenhyphen1QIhVC2VOYuOPEZKhyG04VWsU2g7ZWEvvKuBy9tO50hrBtkTbt-wqMMcvbWAw8Bi_o2SM2d6y7GDy3buQY0Y1UcFEaDyIR_VlsRWTzHR6AIGR7FGeaM6rIb/s320/DSCN1631.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I decorated the cookies with drizzles of pink royal icing (1 cup sifted powder sugar, 1 tsp milk, 1/4 tsp vanilla, and red food coloring).<span style="color: red;"> <b>HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY</b></span>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-8094014893144194192011-01-27T14:31:00.001-05:002011-01-30T10:08:26.643-05:00ANOTHER SNOW DAY! Are you kidding me?!Another day off from school = another day added to the summer :( UGH! I am definitely ready for spring!<br />
<br />
I decided to take another stab at Mary's Oatmeal Molasses Bread. I thought that the kneading would help get out some of my snow day frustration! This time around, I had success with the bread. Yeast breads make me nervous, so I made sure to follow this one very carefully.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Oatmeal Molasses Bread</span><br />
Makes 2 Loves<br />
(recipe cut out of the paper and glued onto recipe card)<br />
<br />
1 cup milk<br />
1 cup water<br />
3 tablespoons butter<br />
1 cup quick-cooking oats<br />
<br />
1 package active dry yeast<br />
1/2 cup warm water (105 -115 degrees)<br />
1/2 cup molasses<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
5 1/2 to 6 cups unbleached all purpose flour<br />
<br />
Grease large bowl and two 9X5 inch loaf pans. Combine milk, water, and butter in medium saucepan and bring to boil. Transfer to bowl; stir in oats. Cool to lukewarm<br />
<br />
Dissolve yeast in warm water. Stir yeast into oatmeal mixture. Add molasses and salt and mix well. Stir in flour one cup at a time until mixture no longer sticks to bowl.<br />
<br />
Turn dough out onto floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour as necessary. Transfer to greased bowl, turning to coat all surfaces. Cover with plastic wrap and towel. Let stand in warm draft free area until doubled in bulk, about 1 1/2 hours.<br />
<br />
Divide dough in half. Transfer to loaf pans. Let dough stand in warm draft-free area until doubled in bulk.<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake loaves until tester inserted in centers comes out clean, about 40-50 minutes. Remove from pans and let cool on racks. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig99lHMMZOafCmLwMRY8JAP9LfXt57m1Lix-CLchnNU84aLmVW0kfScMTeW1UShHFY9SqkhT22GMQsImfXWKEtDTHefFLWQQZfVpmwePvwNX2_PFZUtqjWvvEF_Y1weGX0jj8dSb8jwwQf/s1600/DSCN1617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig99lHMMZOafCmLwMRY8JAP9LfXt57m1Lix-CLchnNU84aLmVW0kfScMTeW1UShHFY9SqkhT22GMQsImfXWKEtDTHefFLWQQZfVpmwePvwNX2_PFZUtqjWvvEF_Y1weGX0jj8dSb8jwwQf/s320/DSCN1617.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzK5XoY6L47pi0VBdM2Azugewg9IxaGbiiRsVmV2QDRWMRWWxibe-T877VtGCT0sbgqvwIayMzHcTHhQZ9duEFH0Dpi7qCHRA1wu4julQ93U85jrypaQn6BG_aCRx4AuxjYJea_Ll7Vig/s1600/DSCN1618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBzK5XoY6L47pi0VBdM2Azugewg9IxaGbiiRsVmV2QDRWMRWWxibe-T877VtGCT0sbgqvwIayMzHcTHhQZ9duEFH0Dpi7qCHRA1wu4julQ93U85jrypaQn6BG_aCRx4AuxjYJea_Ll7Vig/s320/DSCN1618.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Second times a charm!cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-30725501722487538692011-01-21T08:38:00.000-05:002011-01-21T08:38:36.894-05:00Snow day...again?! This winter is really starting to bug me. Another snow day today which means another snow day tacked on to the end of the year...and it is only January!<br />
<br />
The only positive from this storm is the mark it will leave on the ski mountains! After the snow stops, I am heading off to a girls' ski weekend! YIPEE!<br />
For the event, I baked up a batch of Dipped Shortbread Logs. I don't remember this recipe, but my cousin Alison was asking if I had it so Mary made them at some point in time. I think that by the time I was old enough to participate in baking with Mary she had her set repertoire of cookies and breads (Chocolate Chip, Hermits, Shredded Wheat Bread, etc etc). I have heard that she was more of an "experimental" baker and cook before my time. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dipped Shortbread Logs</span><br />
(written on a chicken, yes chicken, recipe card...This isn't her recipe because once again, the handwriting is far to nice!)<br />
<br />
2 cups flour<br />
1 cup butter or oleo, softened<br />
1/2 cup sifted confectioners sugar<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
Combine flour, butter, sugar, and vanilla in large bowl. Mix until thoroughly blended (will be crumbly). Shape into 2 inch logs. Bake @ 350 for 10 minutes. Cool Completely<br />
<br />
Melt 6oz of chocolate bits and 1 tbsp solid white shortening. Add more, if needed to make dipping consistent. Roll in chopped nuts (I did not do this). Makes about 60.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfO4_7Aa02lJVNlj7co_RUpkc9tGawnlPZvHs59ToEtqivGcpJKrBnQstlyl6T86aaNtVlGn0pBA3VN_9QdSU9CV8PSfoKrMJnkVIfP6ysyuU32fb0MIDxAC43lJ-RWfH4Q-fQI6qUe7d/s1600/DSCN1596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfO4_7Aa02lJVNlj7co_RUpkc9tGawnlPZvHs59ToEtqivGcpJKrBnQstlyl6T86aaNtVlGn0pBA3VN_9QdSU9CV8PSfoKrMJnkVIfP6ysyuU32fb0MIDxAC43lJ-RWfH4Q-fQI6qUe7d/s320/DSCN1596.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwUZyr8VbJnZoQalybc8-IpIG2tTQbAlS8BzbyWY8mBaRgaTe8laaMdfYj1Wk-WELbb6g0CtkEy1KP1996muKu30OMfIaiqQARoG589gmaJs-wdQ1OTL5ZmrQXb5kNBYztUPLsG_7_7fk/s1600/DSCN1601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZwUZyr8VbJnZoQalybc8-IpIG2tTQbAlS8BzbyWY8mBaRgaTe8laaMdfYj1Wk-WELbb6g0CtkEy1KP1996muKu30OMfIaiqQARoG589gmaJs-wdQ1OTL5ZmrQXb5kNBYztUPLsG_7_7fk/s320/DSCN1601.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I am not a fan of shortbread, but these were really good. Perhaps it was the 2 sticks of butter that turned the corner for me!cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-16075691311073389502011-01-12T15:03:00.000-05:002011-01-12T15:03:42.545-05:00Not my forteSnow Day=Baking<br />
I started the morning by baking up one of Mary's bread recipes, but it was another failure. I am blaming it on the yeast this time. I bought it refrigerated, but kept it in the pantry, so I am thinking that I should have kept it cold. I am not even going to post the recipe until I try it again! <br />
<br />
Once my rocks came out of the oven, I changed my game plan and baked up some bars... I think cookies are more my forte.<br />
<br />
This recipe was obviously not Mary's because the writing on it was way to nice to be hers, but I do remember her making these.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Congo bars</span><br />
(written on plain lined recipe card) <br />
<br />
3/4 shortening<br />
1 package brown sugar<br />
3 eggs, beaten<br />
1 tsp vanilla <br />
2 3/4 cup flour, sifted<br />
2 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 cup chocolate chips<br />
1 cup walnuts, optional<br />
Melt the shortning and add to brown sugar. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together. Add eggs to brown sugar mixture, followed by vanilla. Stir in flour mixture and combine. Add in chocolate chips and walnuts.<br />
Place in greased 13X9 pan and bake for 30 minutes. Cool complete before cutting into thin bars. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These were very chewy and chocolaty! I don't like nuts in my cookies, so I substituted coconut! YUM! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp38T4ZKvb3Za-stJN5pyJ6ywjfUEoC2ii_tVB1TW6_HaIpi7jDiyW5YWGXsR00rfbhaWOTZUnDF3oIrD5r5-21CjnVNRggo0wFn5Oq067NtT-mAF2B5X_4nLG1cMi5JoRXCbMcOraqAE9/s1600/DSCN1594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp38T4ZKvb3Za-stJN5pyJ6ywjfUEoC2ii_tVB1TW6_HaIpi7jDiyW5YWGXsR00rfbhaWOTZUnDF3oIrD5r5-21CjnVNRggo0wFn5Oq067NtT-mAF2B5X_4nLG1cMi5JoRXCbMcOraqAE9/s320/DSCN1594.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspojMLyLYJYf21Wk26cspmxlNGi-vYoTXVjZUuBI3-7RPN3U3nbZt6UwnSYBE4OSsSYGPH4h4-cFx_MxFpRJOg-kOmSl6333twcOBC1fbyp1ELl_qXWIRd69HeTlD5h-_uBXBdm9Y2uHO/s1600/DSCN1595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspojMLyLYJYf21Wk26cspmxlNGi-vYoTXVjZUuBI3-7RPN3U3nbZt6UwnSYBE4OSsSYGPH4h4-cFx_MxFpRJOg-kOmSl6333twcOBC1fbyp1ELl_qXWIRd69HeTlD5h-_uBXBdm9Y2uHO/s320/DSCN1595.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-69449712653660059112011-01-08T15:50:00.001-05:002011-01-08T15:51:49.859-05:00Back to reality...There wasn't anytime for baking last weekend as the entire family was attending my cousin Nicholas' New Year's Eve wedding. The entire Wilson clan packed up and traveled up to Brunswick to celebrate the event. Here are some pics from the weekend:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkGG-wyhI0XyT0hdfOVtft5iYkqe16E3Nmvih_Kd6b1F_iZX07ru1Ys3LyqcQBbJuCCTGbhK9iKzoPyJX9g1BSo5l7DODCe3cSQttedOwG9Tnmj2NtbhuCy6HMdJV_ToibszSmaoeh-feL/s1600/DSCN1529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkGG-wyhI0XyT0hdfOVtft5iYkqe16E3Nmvih_Kd6b1F_iZX07ru1Ys3LyqcQBbJuCCTGbhK9iKzoPyJX9g1BSo5l7DODCe3cSQttedOwG9Tnmj2NtbhuCy6HMdJV_ToibszSmaoeh-feL/s320/DSCN1529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZu8Q-jydKKF6c_cVwTABZyeC8CDj3N2-MhHJ1ogvmpL4Wok0JgKsSr2ibQYnk9c1U_7pWbCmh1EiDEe4GpNjEl02-Yxk3GQAQPM1TzNHMCfAm-9N__hXUdMoQ-GuC-ah1-NKNBBV3nlE/s1600/DSCN1552.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZu8Q-jydKKF6c_cVwTABZyeC8CDj3N2-MhHJ1ogvmpL4Wok0JgKsSr2ibQYnk9c1U_7pWbCmh1EiDEe4GpNjEl02-Yxk3GQAQPM1TzNHMCfAm-9N__hXUdMoQ-GuC-ah1-NKNBBV3nlE/s320/DSCN1552.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The bride and groom!</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-bxMCZlYlcaMQVIhFklesjO06AtCEUZNfm5JMiM7bKBJAxrJJ39LblFP7yjGTyqBl9F5YpXl1KRDSoTHbftMszOPwbMN2RdrODzcg8FSQEYrLE8G4s11Kg8FuTNgDZmppZMay9Abr4Qnw/s1600/DSCN1556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-bxMCZlYlcaMQVIhFklesjO06AtCEUZNfm5JMiM7bKBJAxrJJ39LblFP7yjGTyqBl9F5YpXl1KRDSoTHbftMszOPwbMN2RdrODzcg8FSQEYrLE8G4s11Kg8FuTNgDZmppZMay9Abr4Qnw/s320/DSCN1556.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Typical family...getting into trouble</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_K6yfDdrOuPhvgNlt9Z4YbH9682Q25vonDCwFxv3MFEA-3SJ5ub63mZQ8ZGnA18jA9Is2lIOS6KUgWBf25cScQtZ1VI0mt8D7sJOBNieeo1MmLH2X2UBWv6azrB2fSTWsdguAb5IgMsG/s1600/DSCN1563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC_K6yfDdrOuPhvgNlt9Z4YbH9682Q25vonDCwFxv3MFEA-3SJ5ub63mZQ8ZGnA18jA9Is2lIOS6KUgWBf25cScQtZ1VI0mt8D7sJOBNieeo1MmLH2X2UBWv6azrB2fSTWsdguAb5IgMsG/s320/DSCN1563.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">All of the Cousins </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UhVh9okT8qflIsAItcrGgQkHR7C9VFUWdZ0uCFAg76i9GoIHCu5u-9V-MQmE5emAYG36y7UOHRWt2fg5Mv0nMwmcuvPVYB_0VwDR7Yml60-f7nIBLYMuw6NoPIWKih9NzUo4Ronuaz6q/s1600/DSCN1505.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UhVh9okT8qflIsAItcrGgQkHR7C9VFUWdZ0uCFAg76i9GoIHCu5u-9V-MQmE5emAYG36y7UOHRWt2fg5Mv0nMwmcuvPVYB_0VwDR7Yml60-f7nIBLYMuw6NoPIWKih9NzUo4Ronuaz6q/s320/DSCN1505.JPG" width="240" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Henry, the ring bearer</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Congrats again, Nick & Lindsay</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now vacation is over and it is back to reality :( </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This weekend is filled with progress notes, lesson planning, and report writing so there isn't too much time to bake. When I browsed the recipes this morning, I was looking for something quick and easy...Brownies. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Brownies - Very Best Recipe</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(written on white recipe card in green ink)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 squares chocolate</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 cup shortening</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 eggs, beathen</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 cup sifted flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/8 tsp salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp vanilla</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup chopped nuts</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Melt chocolate and shortening together. Add sugar and mix well. Add eggs. Sift flour and salt together. Add to chocolate mixture. Add vanilla and nuts and mix well. Pour into greased 8in pan and baked for 35 minutes at 325. Cut when cool</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJajBXzKawadueQeOcJHODI_d17WMBLrZyVwSKebSNWbdxtx2rVGujRcGl5OTxmSNJAsIPZ-rztTUwtD5WHf7immSG41ZcaGT-bPezCiC9VEISxxBn1AxNUkSd1ghVV9KA9z9wCqFRubQ3/s1600/DSCN1577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJajBXzKawadueQeOcJHODI_d17WMBLrZyVwSKebSNWbdxtx2rVGujRcGl5OTxmSNJAsIPZ-rztTUwtD5WHf7immSG41ZcaGT-bPezCiC9VEISxxBn1AxNUkSd1ghVV9KA9z9wCqFRubQ3/s320/DSCN1577.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I had a semi-fail with this recipe. I had never made brownies this way. I have always used cocoa powder, so I was a little nervous when preparing and baking them: <br />
<ul><li> I didn't add nuts. I am not a fan of nuts in dessert. </li>
<li>I only baked them for 30 minutes because some of the past recipes have cooked for less time and they were very fudgy</li>
<li>Also, they weren't very chocolaty.</li>
</ul>My husband, who will eat anything, ate an entire row stating, "They taste fat free. Maybe Mary liked them that way." <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2aNK3KGSckR0DtIPCVqbrMxUOY4RHoonLaQktsD1CeLOhm9l2X9xOVyX5pIbu2YV1vXw4csqS_8dScO7Ufrie2eH9Z9J1thOxvW7U-OY7HmpgQjvbZVmfpLR4BQx4OFQr7HiQvmxtvQ1Y/s1600/DSCN1579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2aNK3KGSckR0DtIPCVqbrMxUOY4RHoonLaQktsD1CeLOhm9l2X9xOVyX5pIbu2YV1vXw4csqS_8dScO7Ufrie2eH9Z9J1thOxvW7U-OY7HmpgQjvbZVmfpLR4BQx4OFQr7HiQvmxtvQ1Y/s320/DSCN1579.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, when making these again, I would add more chocolate (perhaps another ounce) and definitely cook them for 35 minutes. If any of the family can remember Mary making these, perhaps you can comment about what could have been tweaked...</div><span id="goog_1627016410"></span><span id="goog_1627016411"></span>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-51395982759079830612010-12-24T10:58:00.000-05:002010-12-24T10:58:24.949-05:00Christmas' Cream of the CropChristmas is a day away and I have been baking like mad! In the last 24 hours I have made Bailey's Fudge, Spinach and Artichoke dip, Bailey's trifle (do you notice the Bailey's trend here) and drum roll please...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">SNICKERDOODLES and SHREDDED WHEAT BREAD</span></i></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">There are two recipes that when mentioned, you automatically think of Mary...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsR9asHfwJLXQLO6WXHk-3mF0TmT8yBcx0RjmNjts2p5AIGov6abMZK9JK295NFjBHYzw46mC0CAqGyz1gvLK9wHHF6tZIu5HnZ8N7CfrZmps2KOGeNHqcWOA4gea57keJXddAabrX7io/s1600/scan0007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXsR9asHfwJLXQLO6WXHk-3mF0TmT8yBcx0RjmNjts2p5AIGov6abMZK9JK295NFjBHYzw46mC0CAqGyz1gvLK9wHHF6tZIu5HnZ8N7CfrZmps2KOGeNHqcWOA4gea57keJXddAabrX7io/s320/scan0007.jpg" width="215" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Snickerdoodles and Shredded Wheat Bread.</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><br />
First, Snickerdoodles. These have to be one of my favorite cookies ever made by Mary. I can vividly remember making these with her; reading the recipe out of her old Betty Crocker Cookbook! The cover of the cookbook had been used so much, it had flour and dried dough all over it.<br />
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Around this time of year, Mary would always have the great nieces and nephews over to make sugar cookies and snickerdoodles for our school parties. We cut out the sugar cookies using angel, Santa, and tree shaped cookie cutters (this was when you could still mention the word Christmas in school without being scolded). After they baked, we painted icing on them and covered them with colored sprinkles. (<a href="http://cookiecocktail.blogspot.com/2010/09/happy-birthday-mary.html">Sugar Cookie Recipe)</a>. When these were finished, we would move onto the Snickerdoodles! Mary would continue to make these year round, but they taste the best this time of year. <br />
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I really wanted to make these EXACTLY how Mary made them, so I caved and bought shortening. I know, I know...weight watchers would NOT approve, but it is the holiday season!<br />
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<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Snickerdoodles</span><br />
(From the Betty Crocker Cookbook) <br />
<br />
<table><tbody>
<tr class="ingredient"><td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">1 1/2 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">cups sugar </td> </tr>
<tr class="ingredient"> <td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">1/2 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">cup butter or margarine, softened </td> </tr>
<tr class="ingredient"> <td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">1/2 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">cup shortening </td> </tr>
<tr class="ingredient"> <td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">2 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">eggs </td> </tr>
<tr class="ingredient"> <td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">2 3/4 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">cups Gold Medal® all-purpose or unbleached flour </td> </tr>
<tr class="ingredient"> <td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">2 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">teaspoons cream of tartar </td> </tr>
<tr class="ingredient"> <td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">1 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">teaspoon baking soda </td> </tr>
<tr class="ingredient"> <td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">1/4 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">teaspoon salt </td> </tr>
<tr class="ingredient"> <td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">1/4 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">cup sugar </td> </tr>
<tr class="ingredient"> <td class="RecipeIngredientItemNumber">2 </td> <td class="RecipeIngredientItem">teaspoons ground cinnamon </td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="clear"></div><ol class="instructions"><div class="serve_with_container" id="main_0_centercolumn_0_ServeWithRecipes_ServeWithPanel" style="margin-left: 20px;"></div><li><span class="instruction"> Heat oven to 400ºF. </span></li>
<li><span class="instruction"> Mix 1 1/2 cups sugar, the butter, shortening and eggs in large bowl. Stir in flour, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt. </span></li>
<li><span class="instruction"> Shape dough into 1 1/4-inch balls. Mix 1/4 cup sugar and the cinnamon. Roll balls in cinnamon-sugar mixture. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet.</span></li>
<li><span class="instruction"> Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. </span></li>
</ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj52M04BR2Td-s074OhoxLrm9FiLV07UGpl_of5FM-HkK3RaTXq9mTB4Mk_svItP1D7eyEjCflC0b7k3JUPfxiSITf_d9wrbwluJI-zqCtA3D1M9v5h5r1Y-Qb2E-XXcn5Vbs_rXeYtNTgt/s1600/DSCN1478.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj52M04BR2Td-s074OhoxLrm9FiLV07UGpl_of5FM-HkK3RaTXq9mTB4Mk_svItP1D7eyEjCflC0b7k3JUPfxiSITf_d9wrbwluJI-zqCtA3D1M9v5h5r1Y-Qb2E-XXcn5Vbs_rXeYtNTgt/s320/DSCN1478.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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Now onto the shredded wheat bread. Mary was an excellent bread maker and she made shredded wheat bread quite often. Anytime I stayed over Mary's house, I would have toasted shredded wheat bread and imperial margarine for breakfast. The house always smelled liked this bread and it is the one scent that to this day, the minute I smell it I automatically think of Mary and her kitchen. This was her mother's recipe, with whom Mary was very close with so I know that preparing and baking this meant a lot to her. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Shredded Wheat Bread</span><br />
Recipe from: Mother<br />
Serves: 2 loaves<br />
(written on fruit adorned recipe card)<br />
2 shredded wheat biscuits<br />
3 cups scalded milk or water<br />
Pour over biscuits and let stand until cool<br />
Add:<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1tbsp shortening<br />
1/2 cup molasses<br />
2 packages yeast<br />
Add about 6 cups of flour. Enough to kneed. Knead for 10 minutes. Put in greased bowl, turn, cover and let rise until double in bulk. Knead and put into two greased pans. Let rise again until it reached the top of the pan. Bake in 350 oven for 45 minutes. Brush top of loaves with Shortening. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH2pLmCm_Rm6GN6dyUHdEnVN26LLYSDvzm-Qx7uom4zimEVJdZ0mvqfvC_Jt_M7Pg5n99KlB5-hOriRBcT-DftP1fieqwvCjgp8hsme858erjqhxqY_xMxrH3EdWBHIfUraKLG2n546qm2/s1600/DSCN1491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH2pLmCm_Rm6GN6dyUHdEnVN26LLYSDvzm-Qx7uom4zimEVJdZ0mvqfvC_Jt_M7Pg5n99KlB5-hOriRBcT-DftP1fieqwvCjgp8hsme858erjqhxqY_xMxrH3EdWBHIfUraKLG2n546qm2/s320/DSCN1491.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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As I venture through this culinary endeavor, my family and I have been provided with many opportunities to reminisce and laugh about Mary, her recipes, and her knack (and sometimes lack there of) for cooking. This is the first time, however that while reading and typing a recipe out I have been brought to tears. I don't know if it is the memory of Mary, the way that my kitchen smells like her house right now, or thinking about how much I miss her, but despite the tears I am so honored that she has left behind these recipes to remember her by and the hundreds of pictures to laugh over.<br />
A few days after her passing, I came across this photo, which I look at often to remember the love that Mary had for life<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1IIDP7kHp0Ioibo-_fsiPFk06cBYZUg39wJRD-JYu8gN1r4oCoMJh121Axy4Pe_ls4jy2Z_tFOMW0KXdGYuFbo3IHxdpSrrGpvVMeTbJgcZdEdwlpKLP3BLcH4t9cyaCUTyVLbibLlSM/s1600/scan0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1IIDP7kHp0Ioibo-_fsiPFk06cBYZUg39wJRD-JYu8gN1r4oCoMJh121Axy4Pe_ls4jy2Z_tFOMW0KXdGYuFbo3IHxdpSrrGpvVMeTbJgcZdEdwlpKLP3BLcH4t9cyaCUTyVLbibLlSM/s400/scan0009.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i>To a season filled with laughter, love, cookies and cocktails.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><i> Happy Holidays</i></span></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-50644832382164301372010-12-18T17:14:00.000-05:002010-12-18T17:14:25.563-05:00Sugar, Spice, and Everything Nice...Whoopie!T-Minus 1 week! I am in now rush for Christmas to get here, but I cannot wait for vacation to start! My students are going mental! I have had to call Santa Claus 2 times this week to report behavior that is suspect to being placed on the naughty list!<br />
Now starts the marathon of cooking and baking. Tonight we are going to my aunt's annual Christmas party. As always there will be<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">booze, food</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_5MQK-81W7O4nJFJiDvpuJlaekRhkGl5imo7Wz6N0bogo5pEBWxCfQTkwQupuN0P1NHqR5cOLHayrlMCZCC8tQH-Ibe4TyDAfuknD6cdRMLcVQ-bO8YLfnFQe4-ZumKKbyMnkk20ROEe/s1600/n9102406_35551098_9012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_5MQK-81W7O4nJFJiDvpuJlaekRhkGl5imo7Wz6N0bogo5pEBWxCfQTkwQupuN0P1NHqR5cOLHayrlMCZCC8tQH-Ibe4TyDAfuknD6cdRMLcVQ-bO8YLfnFQe4-ZumKKbyMnkk20ROEe/s320/n9102406_35551098_9012.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> and spontaneous song. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50w_PEQj26L1srm_Vari9Yn_uV4ZL3whtcHTN3mixt4ipspf0SIYHq6SbXQwk_3dw4SuXxOmyBwtstDlpKci40WoQOcFW1qIn9Uv3LDeZnrQIi65ft_8lVUapUl2OSGfQ7ZIv64jFxnEX/s1600/n9102406_35551099_9358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi50w_PEQj26L1srm_Vari9Yn_uV4ZL3whtcHTN3mixt4ipspf0SIYHq6SbXQwk_3dw4SuXxOmyBwtstDlpKci40WoQOcFW1qIn9Uv3LDeZnrQIi65ft_8lVUapUl2OSGfQ7ZIv64jFxnEX/s320/n9102406_35551099_9358.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
When I was young, I would be the "Coat Girl" at this party. Everyone would ring a bell and I would run to the bottom of the stairs to collect or drop off their coats. One year, my cousin had a brilliant idea to put out a tip cup out. By the end of the night, people were being very generous with the tips and I walked away with $50! Not bad for a small gig at the age of 8. The best part of being the coat girl was waking up the next morning and being allowed to eat leftover chocolate cake for breakfast! I love my aunties :)<br />
Now that I am of drinking age I have progressed from coat girl to party participant. For tonights event, I made Mary's Gingerbread recipe.<br />
<br />
This was actual Mary's mother's recipe but as it states on the card "my mother did not like ginger so we didn't use it" ~ signed MW (Mary Wilson). This could be why I never can remember her making it.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Gingerbread</span><br />
(written on white recipe card) <br />
Cream togther<br />
1/4 cup shortening<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
add:<br />
1 egg beaten<br />
1/4 mollasses<br />
<br />
Sift together<br />
1 cup flour<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
1/4 tsp each cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg<br />
Mix well and add to first mixture alternating with 1/2 cup boiling water.<br />
Turn into greased 8 in square pan and bake at 400 degrees for 30-40 minutes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygk-EPZFck0OKzeMik5xpsv_N6NCknRgzEAmAqBlHJzfHER-QyqNb4A9gQ5Moy834UHANwknfzbBw__t-m9iKEfSiff9XimcwbE1uojzHpKsV890-4-dBEll78_zWFtcEIxtQIaDKlRdo/s1600/DSCN1465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygk-EPZFck0OKzeMik5xpsv_N6NCknRgzEAmAqBlHJzfHER-QyqNb4A9gQ5Moy834UHANwknfzbBw__t-m9iKEfSiff9XimcwbE1uojzHpKsV890-4-dBEll78_zWFtcEIxtQIaDKlRdo/s320/DSCN1465.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>The gingerbread was good, but a little dry. Matt liked it, so I guess it passes the test. I would suggest cooking it for less time - @25 minutes<br />
<br />
I also tried a new recipe I found on a blog for Peppermint Whoopie Pies:<br />
<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
-1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour<br />
-2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder<br />
-1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
-4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature<br />
-4 tablespoons vegetable shortening<br />
-1 cup granulated sugar<br />
-1 egg<br />
-1 teaspoon vanilla<br />
-1 cup milk<br />
<ul><li>Preheat oven to 375 degrees.</li>
<li>Line baking sheets with parchment paper.</li>
<li>In a bowl, sift together, flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt.</li>
<li>In another bowl, beat butter, shortening and sugar with a mixer on low until just combined. Increase speed to medium and beat for about 3 minutes.</li>
<li>Add egg and vanilla and beat for two more minutes.</li>
<li>Add half of the flour mixture and half of the milk and beat on low until incorporated. Repeat with remaining flour and milk and beat until combined.</li>
<li>Using a tablespoon, drop batter on baking sheet two inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes each or until pies spring back when pressed gently.</li>
<li>Remove from oven and cool for about five minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.</li>
</ul>Makes 50 cookies, enough for 25 pies.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Peppermint Buttercream</span><br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
-1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened<br />
-4 cups confectioner's sugar<br />
-1/4 cup milk<br />
-1 teaspoon peppermint extract<br />
-6 candy canes, crushed for garnish (optional)<br />
<br />
<ul><li>In bowl of electric mixer cream butter on medium speed.</li>
<li>Gradually add confectioner's sugar and milk and mix well.</li>
<li>Mix in peppermint extract.</li>
<li>Place peppermint buttercream in plastic bag and pipe a dollop on flat side of cookie. Sandwich together with another cookie.</li>
<li>Sprinkle filling with crushed candy canes!</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2dxzdo-573-OgCj_yIen2wphbyB6P7FeQWHNXrEM7sCa5Ez_8dmVe_rM9NEFeYZbVsRHVzWUa-IzAQ18JsQplA3B2s520_L7zRFYiTPf8ThISi-Y3QaOLQ0leOK6TVsCpCl5NAMGzxAH/s1600/DSCN1468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2dxzdo-573-OgCj_yIen2wphbyB6P7FeQWHNXrEM7sCa5Ez_8dmVe_rM9NEFeYZbVsRHVzWUa-IzAQ18JsQplA3B2s520_L7zRFYiTPf8ThISi-Y3QaOLQ0leOK6TVsCpCl5NAMGzxAH/s320/DSCN1468.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The upcoming week calls for lots of baking so be sure to stay tuned for the <i><b>Pièce de résistance, </b></i>some of Mary's BEST recipes!cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-65358650356100019382010-12-10T21:09:00.001-05:002010-12-10T21:17:38.313-05:00Liquor infused desserts...the best way to get through the holidays!Christmas is getting closer and closer...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLH44Le08BZG_iFczfjPkE-SZU0WVKWR_lvpJVHpwQBqzyc_5W-hVWnyfpSw6AeP9i5E5VWwA9fLiHHzsRwbevNcVaSg4wtnStISafo62b6gmTedVV7ORgUbYpphyWIWm05opUJOPLLi6I/s1600/DSCN1449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLH44Le08BZG_iFczfjPkE-SZU0WVKWR_lvpJVHpwQBqzyc_5W-hVWnyfpSw6AeP9i5E5VWwA9fLiHHzsRwbevNcVaSg4wtnStISafo62b6gmTedVV7ORgUbYpphyWIWm05opUJOPLLi6I/s320/DSCN1449.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Our tree from the tree farm! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWr1QydDpU1GRuP7wUZXu6YdJ9RBEiuravd9MfjscbAnQryH7XSTWcsx8vBP5_TgubI0F-ZRqRnCiXrhhyphenhyphenQ8Y-9BRdlOBqXqhp9xbns61eZSRNtYpGgGWjVEW5tTzsodX3bKu2Yoyunxo/s1600/DSCN1450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWr1QydDpU1GRuP7wUZXu6YdJ9RBEiuravd9MfjscbAnQryH7XSTWcsx8vBP5_TgubI0F-ZRqRnCiXrhhyphenhyphenQ8Y-9BRdlOBqXqhp9xbns61eZSRNtYpGgGWjVEW5tTzsodX3bKu2Yoyunxo/s320/DSCN1450.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7aKVFxF2Y5U5wqimKg3tXhWVvwbv9eSTwsJIVC5atZKW9glUnk4_itzgOS20cS5IskZHvbwd0vNdLVnrlWRkKTcQqIY7eNldRDHmq2lssJ44JuW_JCymdMAVz_sRetYl6-_c7KgTg5L4J/s1600/DSCN1451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7aKVFxF2Y5U5wqimKg3tXhWVvwbv9eSTwsJIVC5atZKW9glUnk4_itzgOS20cS5IskZHvbwd0vNdLVnrlWRkKTcQqIY7eNldRDHmq2lssJ44JuW_JCymdMAVz_sRetYl6-_c7KgTg5L4J/s320/DSCN1451.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Mary's tree topper finding a resting place in our tree</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-tqiSFVmGK-zxBguZqb0rwUDJUov5oQNQYarepF5B3UjaWFu1omjtd4P3Bckp-xsS5SaJiZKPNlzBBd8DNctxhHUEBElwJ04G2HrM4bzd6Q0RaBaOiMtrmGQWASIgwS7CyLnLvMWSdTFh/s1600/DSCN1455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-tqiSFVmGK-zxBguZqb0rwUDJUov5oQNQYarepF5B3UjaWFu1omjtd4P3Bckp-xsS5SaJiZKPNlzBBd8DNctxhHUEBElwJ04G2HrM4bzd6Q0RaBaOiMtrmGQWASIgwS7CyLnLvMWSdTFh/s320/DSCN1455.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Rachel & Mary - Christmas 1983</div> <br />
Ahh the beauty of Christmas....and the stress...presents still need to be purchased, wrapping must be done, and my students still need to make through 8 1/2 more school days. There is no better way to escape the holiday hoopla than a PARTY!<br />
<br />
My lovely friend, Patti, is hosting her annual holiday party tomorrow. I am making Irish Creme Chocolate Trifle... a non Mary dessert. I know this is somewhat sacrilegious for this blog, BUT it is liquored infused so Mary would have definitely approved! <br />
<br />
I first made this dessert last year for a family gathering. I found the recipe and knew it would be a big hit with the "Nan" (my grandmother). As far back as I can remember my grandmother has had a rather large special spot in her heart for Baileys. Every year for Christmas she receives a bottle... <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqRE37-_iLqbkdi8_sEkr_rbNqdUJGjTv3uHKpR6KYSOEIWtlW8viajMzWBNWczpOKSx35xkTH_hra2pqmNDMpoSSZCefpxExhRgxTxDVX8zUTJkv7v0DWb0C7su9zoZHNeR0jw5Z617J/s1600/n9102406_35551104_1079.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTqRE37-_iLqbkdi8_sEkr_rbNqdUJGjTv3uHKpR6KYSOEIWtlW8viajMzWBNWczpOKSx35xkTH_hra2pqmNDMpoSSZCefpxExhRgxTxDVX8zUTJkv7v0DWb0C7su9zoZHNeR0jw5Z617J/s320/n9102406_35551104_1079.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">or a couple of bottles...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivuKVgbOypKMWWWiZ_DKlm1qS_ktJnQu5PXslJG0iGcI3aj_PtBOlnpXzV5aWN3vo-g8aJ1kPjTiGPsjCQEEYxB4b3ds-9tnPvw4awM0DJqa_J8u97AqyF8uliIsrzQIcFT701LCMCghsC/s1600/n9102406_35551106_1773.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivuKVgbOypKMWWWiZ_DKlm1qS_ktJnQu5PXslJG0iGcI3aj_PtBOlnpXzV5aWN3vo-g8aJ1kPjTiGPsjCQEEYxB4b3ds-9tnPvw4awM0DJqa_J8u97AqyF8uliIsrzQIcFT701LCMCghsC/s320/n9102406_35551106_1773.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> (This only lasted her about 1/2 a year)</div>Believe it or not, we have to plead with her to get a half a glass. Baileys is her equivalent of the crown jewels, <br />
so I knew this dessert would be perfect for her and tomorrow's party. The original recipe did not call for Baileys, but you can add liquor to anything:<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Irish Creme Chocolate Trifle</span><br />
<ul class="ingredients"><li class="ingredient">1 package (18-1/4 ounces) devil's food cake mix</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 cup Bailey's Irish Creme Liquor</li>
<li class="ingredient">3-1/2 cups cold milk</li>
<li class="ingredient">2 packages (3.9 ounces <i>each</i>) instant chocolate pudding mix</li>
<li class="ingredient">3 cups whipped topping</li>
</ul><h2>Directions</h2><ul class="directions"><li>Prepare and bake cake according to package directions, using a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Cool on a wire rack for 1 hour. </li>
<li> With a meat fork or wooden skewer, poke holes in cake about 2 in. apart. Slowly pour creamer over cake; refrigerate for 1 hour. </li>
<li> In a large bowl, whisk the milk and pudding mixes for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. </li>
<li> Cut cake into 1-1/2-in. cubes; place a third of the cubes in a 3-qt. glass bowl. Top with a third of the pudding and whipped topping; repeat layers twice. Store in the refrigerator.<b> Yield: </b>14-16 servings.</li>
</ul><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCk_vUO8Ya2UjLnKRY6TvVN75s-poNqajHZolZSXxIcEjAvX8UZkCzcQf1B9yTOz_m93rMj2FiuKeDsjH9z3s40jkKep-7KXs86ag1hAlubHw21zMWlUz88GUHOLO7aKdfJlH9yZ6lq043/s1600/DSCN1457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCk_vUO8Ya2UjLnKRY6TvVN75s-poNqajHZolZSXxIcEjAvX8UZkCzcQf1B9yTOz_m93rMj2FiuKeDsjH9z3s40jkKep-7KXs86ag1hAlubHw21zMWlUz88GUHOLO7aKdfJlH9yZ6lq043/s320/DSCN1457.JPG" width="320" /> </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">This will be thoroughly enjoyed by an exhausted group of overworked educational staff!<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgowU14smZOURwDXu5WiBPqt28PhCeyoXF7nVA5msO5J0bJEUUcxuNp_3Qsd3obxCgAYkqU_4YA0iUhsIzQiItPM9QJ9ieIWhlX-I-R9SYLdtwb8chcjSQbeZGbgTXUcxCw23xoCtmrKInv/s1600/13748_192623444573_720849573_2768550_2580825_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgowU14smZOURwDXu5WiBPqt28PhCeyoXF7nVA5msO5J0bJEUUcxuNp_3Qsd3obxCgAYkqU_4YA0iUhsIzQiItPM9QJ9ieIWhlX-I-R9SYLdtwb8chcjSQbeZGbgTXUcxCw23xoCtmrKInv/s320/13748_192623444573_720849573_2768550_2580825_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(some of last year's holiday party attendees) </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-78431950879311227582010-12-04T15:15:00.000-05:002010-12-04T15:15:04.319-05:00Most wonderful time of the yearNow that Thanksgiving has come and gone, we can officially start talking about Christmas (even though I started listening to Christmas carols a week before Thanksgiving).<br />
<br />
I love the holidays for a lot of reasons, but my top two are family and baking!There a number of events during the month of December that provide multiple opportunities for both. <br />
<br />
The first official family holiday event took place today: Christmas Tree Cutting at the Nutter Tree Farm. My family started cutting their own tree down in the mid 70s. Every year Mary, Nana, and one of the 6 kids would go to the farm and pick out their tree. Eventually most of us finally became members after years on the waiting list and on the first weekend in December, we all meet at 8:30am to venture out and pick a tree. <br />
<br />
Everyone has their own tree picking style (aka a few arguments over which tree to cut, one of the children crying because they are cold or want a different tree, and decisions about who is going to carry it back to the car). Some find their trees in a matter of minutes while others like to take their time (analyzing and comparing). Picking a tree is really a science, but it is worth it when you have a beautiful tree that could last until July! <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8tuPo350m_FTNj7MvKWwJ4al_zpOc5m5ToSUSLYGbSq4evELXCxiOqC5i1rvug4dl6KjNjK28TxABaILCOCmYaIt3WqOFgZfjqX8EtA8f8WOEKpYvq8tFwIfFmwNmi8YCLgH29-YTFML/s1600/IMG_0957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8tuPo350m_FTNj7MvKWwJ4al_zpOc5m5ToSUSLYGbSq4evELXCxiOqC5i1rvug4dl6KjNjK28TxABaILCOCmYaIt3WqOFgZfjqX8EtA8f8WOEKpYvq8tFwIfFmwNmi8YCLgH29-YTFML/s320/IMG_0957.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>The next few weekends are booked with a number of Christmas parties, but this weekend is nice and quiet! Matt is heading to watch the Oregon State vs Oregon football game (his Christmas) with some friends, so I baked up a recipe I found in Mary's recipe box for Butterscotch Brownies:<br />
<br />
Butterscotch Brownies<br />
(written on large recipe card adorned with an ornamental slice of canteloupe)<br />
1 cup margarine melted<br />
2 cups packed brown sugar<br />
3 eggs<br />
2 tsp vanilla<br />
2 cups sifted flour<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 c chopped walnuts<br />
<br />
Grease 11x7 baking pan<br />
Pour melted margarine in a large bowl. Add sugar and beat well. Beat in eggs and vanilla<br />
Stir in sifted flour, baking powder, and slat<br />
Stir in nuts.<br />
Spread mixture in pan<br />
Bake @ 350 for 30-35 minutes. Cool pan for 10 minutes. Gently remove on waxed paper, cool, and cut into squares.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBlf_rbT1QCx0h0phPFHqSEH4Iz1ITH-QqAuZvdDNU31nR5xwLbSbennUw-2IcTTrarnoZoULpohGeGMjkT94hNg7m2hzUSoqAC8h50UH98IMOoLh9rhFzNYOkqNYS7gby58TJAwGzhq2/s1600/DSCN1444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBlf_rbT1QCx0h0phPFHqSEH4Iz1ITH-QqAuZvdDNU31nR5xwLbSbennUw-2IcTTrarnoZoULpohGeGMjkT94hNg7m2hzUSoqAC8h50UH98IMOoLh9rhFzNYOkqNYS7gby58TJAwGzhq2/s320/DSCN1444.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWk7EJNJMegFJLbEMFQyEZgJYzNRa_thcFyGJx4LTN-i0JLo7TDkh8OZEQ11IUWiyeuJc3GvYVew1lsRO_eENig3zu8sjo17jOSlaMboKbzuxBbuADtZG4lioCmRkVltyUnSqI379e0sDl/s1600/DSCN1446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWk7EJNJMegFJLbEMFQyEZgJYzNRa_thcFyGJx4LTN-i0JLo7TDkh8OZEQ11IUWiyeuJc3GvYVew1lsRO_eENig3zu8sjo17jOSlaMboKbzuxBbuADtZG4lioCmRkVltyUnSqI379e0sDl/s320/DSCN1446.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-13490313648954052332010-11-20T08:54:00.000-05:002010-11-20T08:54:51.836-05:00A time to give thanks and debate....ridged vs. realThe great debate...how do you prefer your cranberry sauce? I have always been partial to a sauce with some whole berries in it, however many of my family members disagree and prefer the canned. Apparently it isn't Thanksgiving unless you have ridges on your cranberry sauce and it makes the suction sound as it comes out of the can:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDBJp6rMXuJwgmIrLV71ASiltj5UE1gTCvepswHDJZ8tkw-bl4rNtVXDmOROM99spmb9c0giVWSVkD7t6o2untxTamTnznHUYe3WMvKt0DTNEQul_z9qhn0aAKe14Y7ZZIjqrcv0N4DDP9/s1600/cranberry+sauce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDBJp6rMXuJwgmIrLV71ASiltj5UE1gTCvepswHDJZ8tkw-bl4rNtVXDmOROM99spmb9c0giVWSVkD7t6o2untxTamTnznHUYe3WMvKt0DTNEQul_z9qhn0aAKe14Y7ZZIjqrcv0N4DDP9/s1600/cranberry+sauce.jpg" /></a></div>However, the one jelly sauce mold that I did enjoy was Mary's Cranberry Jelly (recipe to follow the obvious Thanksgiving explanation). Every Thanksgiving eve, I would stay at Mary's house and help her get ready for our dinner the next day. Preparations included:<br />
<ul><li>setting the table</li>
<li>making place cards</li>
<li>placing doilies (which later went on our heads) on the plates</li>
<li>dishing out the fruit cocktail (which came in a huge jar and contained grapefruit ...nasty)!</li>
<li>and helping Mary make her Cranberry Jelly. </li>
</ul>On the day, everyone would amass at Mary's in the early afternoon with dinner served around 1pm. When all of the grandchildren were small, we could sit around a table (with the addition of a "kids table" which consisted of 4 adult family members at a card table on the porch). After consuming mounds of food everyone would retreat to their designated napping spots until evening when the hors devours and leftovers came out...yes, we ate twice!<br />
Now, we all assemble at my Aunt Kathy's house where she puts out a lovely spread at 3pm, we eat via buffet because there are too many of us, and we only have a few hors devours in the evening (much more reasonable).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQG9cmWDnztXZe7qmTbwZqopUycrHjg3W1VAkpINrV1eIiQkrJFkyyfs4Ji8oWB27BDPe8VGaZkTx4UjqQgDsg_sHAQNFbhQTqgIijqYRpbZkAcP38k7i0i-yFzpdpvDowxef0DGBbY3ib/s1600/Thanksgiving+06+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQG9cmWDnztXZe7qmTbwZqopUycrHjg3W1VAkpINrV1eIiQkrJFkyyfs4Ji8oWB27BDPe8VGaZkTx4UjqQgDsg_sHAQNFbhQTqgIijqYRpbZkAcP38k7i0i-yFzpdpvDowxef0DGBbY3ib/s320/Thanksgiving+06+001.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> (notice the two different cranberry sauces)</div>Upon arrival, we are each given a leaf to write what we are thankful for. This has been a banner year for me with my wedding, graduate degree, great news from a best friend about a little one on the way, and finding Mary's recipes! There is a lot to give thanks for. However, my family is not the sappy type and we usually end of thanking Kappy's Liquor Store, The Anchor Restaurant for serving cheap food and cocktails, and having a plentiful stock in the bar. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ltPxM2_r_7xOMQApzKr4g7kHLNdfDqx-7BKFq6o3RDzGsyt7lq15H9c2-VqypEUoZMj2c5FkOO_5rWYWWAnStQfLUvJlArWu29Etc3fGnpeyKOv__6ohuWW5zPgRz1-PJ1TlFERRl67h/s1600/Thanksgiving+06+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ltPxM2_r_7xOMQApzKr4g7kHLNdfDqx-7BKFq6o3RDzGsyt7lq15H9c2-VqypEUoZMj2c5FkOO_5rWYWWAnStQfLUvJlArWu29Etc3fGnpeyKOv__6ohuWW5zPgRz1-PJ1TlFERRl67h/s320/Thanksgiving+06+003.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This year for Thanksgiving, I have been assigned dessert (trifle) and appetizers so I won't be making any Mary recipes. My cousin Jack will make sure that she is well represented as he is making her molasses crinkles. For our annual Friends' Thanksgiving tonight, I have been asked to make my cranberry sauce...THE REAL KIND (see...there are lovers of whole berry sauce out there). Even though I won't be making Mary's recipes for Thanksgiving, I did want to post them in case anyone wanted to test her Cranberry Jelly and Stuffing! <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Cranberry Jelly (Thanksgiving Kind)</span><br />
(written on plain recipe card)<br />
4 cups cranberries (1 lb)<br />
2 cups sugar<br />
1 cup water.<br />
Wash the berries, add sugar and water. Boil for 12 minutes. Strain, (you have to force the berries through the strainer until all you have left is the pulp). Place in a mold and refrigerate. Makes very firm mold.<br />
Mary used a variety of molds: Turkeys, Pineapples, Circles, etc. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Moist Bread Stuffing</span> (Makes 10 cups)<br />
(written on a personalized recipe card <i>From the kitchen of Mary Wilson</i> with a cake and cupcake embellishment)<br />
1 cup butter or margarine<br />
2 cups diced celery<br />
1 1/2 cups chopped onion<br />
1/4 cup parsley<br />
2 1/4 tsp salt<br />
2 tsp poultry seasoning<br />
1/2 tsp pepper<br />
18 cups bread crumbs<br />
3 eggs slightly beaten<br />
<br />
1. Melt butter over medium heat and add in celery and onions. Cook until tender @ 10 minutes<br />
2. Add parsley, salt, seasoning and pepper. Stir until thoroughly mixed<br />
3. Stir in bread crumbs and egg. Mix together well .<br />
Now, from this point on, there are no additional instructions so I am guessing you either stuff it in the bird or you bake it in the oven (probably 350 for about 30-40 minutes?...you would have to google that one)<br />
<br />
<br />
If you prefer chunky cranberry sauce, here is my recipe:<br />
(from Lori Lange "recipegirl")<br />
<br />
<div><div style="background-color: transparent; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">12 ounce bag of fresh cranberries<br />
1 cup granulated sugar<br />
1 cup water<br />
2¼ tsp finely grated orange peel<br />
½ tsp coarse kosher salt<br />
dash of allspice<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>1. Bring all ingredients to boil in a medium saucepan. Stir every couple of minutes. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer until most of the cranberries burst, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.<br />
2. Transfer sauce to medium container. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.<br />
Yield: 2 1/4 cups<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRs0-Kug1fcgxM59oQRljy-id9g_LwsPVENhfHsxTwhEGzNUqVTDa6KP1sL9gjocV5-Ojt8xmoB-LLijg22-vgd-ngeT3U245ZpmwKmwC1FTKb3Wn9LHEoYFVZoUf0wNKzkLZodi2QTnfn/s1600/Classic-Cranberry-Sauce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRs0-Kug1fcgxM59oQRljy-id9g_LwsPVENhfHsxTwhEGzNUqVTDa6KP1sL9gjocV5-Ojt8xmoB-LLijg22-vgd-ngeT3U245ZpmwKmwC1FTKb3Wn9LHEoYFVZoUf0wNKzkLZodi2QTnfn/s320/Classic-Cranberry-Sauce.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> (picture courtesy of Lori Lange)</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.recipegirl.com/2008/11/11/classic-cranberry-sauce/#ixzz15awVI08H" style="color: #003399;"></a></div></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-22573193678053438612010-11-11T12:50:00.000-05:002010-11-11T12:50:26.323-05:00"I know what boys like, I know what guys want, I know what boys like...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">boys like, boys like...baked goods"</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This weekend Matt and my cousin Mark are venturing up to the lovely state of Maine for my cousin Nicholas' bachelor party...a weekend full of video games, beer, and burping aka Dork Fest. I will be spending the weekend babysitting Henry and Gus..a weekend full of coloring, milk, and burping. Huh, come to think of it there isn't much of a difference between a bunch of 20 and 30 somethings from a 1 and 5 year old!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNr3dO0g2q1AUZeBZkbS5qcbJJwhC1OOqsnviL0AK1cvdxQ66cdFCSJTI-Fuqmf13U5mz2Q1JNSj5dqSJJtpnuYaH1rGCNlEoabWU9t-OEFuqYK6PU__RFmi6C9o38toe63wIBPIs1-0l/s320/nick+and+cheech.jpg" width="320" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> (Rachel & Nick aka Cheech & Diddy 1983)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For Dork Fest, I decided to bake up a batch of Mary's Molasses Crinkles. This is one of those recipes that I remember making with Mary MANY times. Around this time of the year, she frequently baked these for the family and holidays. My 12 year old cousin Jack will actually be baking these up for Thanksgiving this year. The tradition continues and that would make Mary very happy! If you only make one recipe from this entire blog, make these...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Molasses Crinkles:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(written on index card/recipes card)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3/4 cup soft shortening (I use margarine)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup packed brown sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 egg</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 cup molasses</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 1/2 cups flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 tsp soda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 tsp salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tsp clove</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp cinnamon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp ginger</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">granulated ginger</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mix shortening, brown sugar, eggs, and molasses. Sift dry ingredients and blend into wet mixture. Chill for about 1 hour or more. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Heat oven to 375 degrees. Roll dough into 1 1/4" (it really says the exact measurement! You can change it up a little). Dip top of ball into sugar. Place balls sugar side up 2" apart on greased baking sheet. Sprinkle each with 2 drops of water. Bake 11-12 minutes or just until set.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Makes 4 dozen (probably really 2 dozen...remember that these are Mary measurements). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now, the first batch came out crinkly, but very round. I remember the cookie being flatter:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrrSf4oPoKL7XhNsiK_vCdoT3ippBHKPkv8gBJBghQxnPySRd6D2-1pJtIIVnBdYEV8w152D1oo8LFpVUPB7Ck9rXIjXv7HRE05q-SN9KLtFVLpUNXcuTAlZXYN44P2Cwxewa5RvPL2rZ/s1600/DSCN1402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimrrSf4oPoKL7XhNsiK_vCdoT3ippBHKPkv8gBJBghQxnPySRd6D2-1pJtIIVnBdYEV8w152D1oo8LFpVUPB7Ck9rXIjXv7HRE05q-SN9KLtFVLpUNXcuTAlZXYN44P2Cwxewa5RvPL2rZ/s200/DSCN1402.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The second batch I smooshed down, but they didn't crinkle:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXJrTWUDuEKBDdPUQaWx2fRi75DO5uCnMzXj_Rf24vbEP7zQRjO6UdefEiUgOH4c6RBtq1WGPTQf1InMKYfBryvDEYkLj57mpvbTMtG70v8iOQ66OY64WhYAFcySz9PGZgBViw1fl7d-i/s1600/DSCN1407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXJrTWUDuEKBDdPUQaWx2fRi75DO5uCnMzXj_Rf24vbEP7zQRjO6UdefEiUgOH4c6RBtq1WGPTQf1InMKYfBryvDEYkLj57mpvbTMtG70v8iOQ66OY64WhYAFcySz9PGZgBViw1fl7d-i/s200/DSCN1407.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The last batch I smooshed down just a little and they came out perfect:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMrGIzmTo1I7aX-5WkcLikOUXyPKlXdcTPBvr3yj4rFy4UCZvTIB1FDifHi0gA8irA3OaTQJYqVF-TpkV8AQ4unGXQbbFtN4HdY4FE1sj0Ti28XH8FEBYyejUQt_OVlvrgO6RuQvww5LO/s1600/DSCN1412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMrGIzmTo1I7aX-5WkcLikOUXyPKlXdcTPBvr3yj4rFy4UCZvTIB1FDifHi0gA8irA3OaTQJYqVF-TpkV8AQ4unGXQbbFtN4HdY4FE1sj0Ti28XH8FEBYyejUQt_OVlvrgO6RuQvww5LO/s320/DSCN1412.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-69597835452881258272010-11-05T21:40:00.000-04:002010-11-05T21:40:39.049-04:00The infamous mint pie<div style="color: red; text-align: center;">Tonight we celebrated my mom's birthday (Happy belated birthday mom)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6iKTOtxMKSTAaZF2Ja_WhE1PLAnsGdw4TcWScOTuKReMwn7bvLMyaC_bKKxs5HZ3EpWt1pj_lBqxYFYfQiDnP1lI_n5MVGG42_qPnQigTXoqOKEkJEXwfvd_GP5923hgLZvcWnOMbwtER/s1600/scan0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6iKTOtxMKSTAaZF2Ja_WhE1PLAnsGdw4TcWScOTuKReMwn7bvLMyaC_bKKxs5HZ3EpWt1pj_lBqxYFYfQiDnP1lI_n5MVGG42_qPnQigTXoqOKEkJEXwfvd_GP5923hgLZvcWnOMbwtER/s320/scan0001.jpg" width="231" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> (My dad, mom, and I circa @ 1984)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlcFjS2Niy3WWzGNwElXkejg2vGVpK0P5LiqZMJcqiiBuLzwRHM5iSWbYOkQ3nLRZmhk_3h66kOp-UquhrHT8HorVI5QoMp-2zKycMGMXk665kn8H_Vzav6_Meqhi10fovfbtQ7COPW7DA/s1600/MOM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlcFjS2Niy3WWzGNwElXkejg2vGVpK0P5LiqZMJcqiiBuLzwRHM5iSWbYOkQ3nLRZmhk_3h66kOp-UquhrHT8HorVI5QoMp-2zKycMGMXk665kn8H_Vzav6_Meqhi10fovfbtQ7COPW7DA/s320/MOM.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"> (My mom is a certified ski instructor for Maine Handicapped Skiing)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMIRfCXfw8zpGMNxxRNwp5ObJ8vJc435QcdvUyk_jceMuIvLwZ9rtKVezj2OcYa0be1Vt5h5SRoRpVjak-uitwVel8ORzvF_cUuCGNeJLsyMurCNqL55p5sQJqjd_K4F9uzWBuxXCFK2E/s1600/n9102406_35428228_4635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDMIRfCXfw8zpGMNxxRNwp5ObJ8vJc435QcdvUyk_jceMuIvLwZ9rtKVezj2OcYa0be1Vt5h5SRoRpVjak-uitwVel8ORzvF_cUuCGNeJLsyMurCNqL55p5sQJqjd_K4F9uzWBuxXCFK2E/s320/n9102406_35428228_4635.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(my mom and her "irish twin" brother, Rick)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
We had a lovely evening with drinks, dinner, and Mary's Chocolate Mint Pie. Now this isn't just any ordinary pie! This is a pie that comes with quite a history.<br />
<br />
On Sunday nights Mary used to have family dinners at her house. My grandparents, aunts, and uncles would gather for drinks, dinner, and dessert before making the long 1 minute trek back to their house. On one occasion, my aunt made her chocolate mint pie and dished a piece out to everyone. My mother, being the acclaimed "wild child" was unhappy with the size that she received. Rather than asking for more, she threw the pie across the table and "ran away" to Salem Willows Park (a 3 minute walk from their house) where she bought a thing of fries and ate them on the pier.<br />
<br />
I found it only fitting that I make this pie to celebrate my mother's birthday!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Chocolate Mint Pie</span><br />
(written on an recipe card adorned with an italian motif)<br />
<br />
Baked 9" pie shell<br />
2 cups milk<br />
1 envelope unflavored gelatine<br />
1/4 cup cold water<br />
1/3 cup sugar<br />
4 egg yolks slightly beaten<br />
3/4 cup chocolate bits<br />
1/2 tsp vanilla<br />
1/2 tsp peppermint<br />
1/3 cup sugar<br />
1/4 cup chocolate bits<br />
1 tsp cornstarch<br />
4 egg whites<br />
<br />
1. Scald the milk (I had to google how to do this...basically you want to cook it until it is almost boiling)<br />
2. sprinkle gelatin on water to soften<br />
3. Combine 1/3 cup sugar and cornstarch. Stir into egg wolk then slowly stir in some of the scalded milk. Return to the stove, cook stirring 8-10 minutes or until mixture coats a metal spoon and is slighltly thickened.<br />
4. Into 1 cup of this custard mixture, stir in 3/4 cup chocolate bits until melted and set aside.<br />
5. With remaining custard blend softened gelatin with vanilla and peppermint extract. Refrigerate until it mounds slightly.<br />
6. Beat egg whites and salt until soft peaks are formed. Gradually add 1/3 cups sugar beating constantly. Fold into gelatin mixture.<br />
7. Pour chocolate mixture into the pie shell. Pour gelatin mixture on top of chocolate mixture. Arrange 1/4 cup chocolate bits to resemble polka dots.<br />
8. Refrigerate until firm. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5CRrgtTfJH2ITwc4W16PhNY7ys4ZFgbWcmRYliHt5ZCbcbNla92x23kmGqGqb20kdDm0IsvH2yHD6540YcbGDPNSmZWDTSftXM0eD1oSQbRjMWiSUZjOItvdLaUtgjVjr40TGUYMxyvrh/s1600/DSCN1394.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5CRrgtTfJH2ITwc4W16PhNY7ys4ZFgbWcmRYliHt5ZCbcbNla92x23kmGqGqb20kdDm0IsvH2yHD6540YcbGDPNSmZWDTSftXM0eD1oSQbRjMWiSUZjOItvdLaUtgjVjr40TGUYMxyvrh/s320/DSCN1394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA42Am-lXV3rsWBl9MKmyZBkgAfyTo89YEH5PioRzphwTb7GM9ZH-vQhnBxEQO7dU12cU438RppSnjGbNJWIW2udOX7cnys-tPufirjq13BidurB8_avguHQjkdyDr4eoOi2Y3Y553gLzC/s1600/DSCN1395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA42Am-lXV3rsWBl9MKmyZBkgAfyTo89YEH5PioRzphwTb7GM9ZH-vQhnBxEQO7dU12cU438RppSnjGbNJWIW2udOX7cnys-tPufirjq13BidurB8_avguHQjkdyDr4eoOi2Y3Y553gLzC/s320/DSCN1395.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrH_cjM-Kf3mTx0Vncdd1gDWYIk7rEhXwuqxEvcvdP7ZpEuDHSrhwjdCi2C6AQZALIzVEmJ-Nq3eZ2JPWvvlhhkHxY-vgNOFeLp0n7TaGERp2teexNijrzjt6YYrLmwSer1uimCgXClgT/s1600/DSCN1398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjrH_cjM-Kf3mTx0Vncdd1gDWYIk7rEhXwuqxEvcvdP7ZpEuDHSrhwjdCi2C6AQZALIzVEmJ-Nq3eZ2JPWvvlhhkHxY-vgNOFeLp0n7TaGERp2teexNijrzjt6YYrLmwSer1uimCgXClgT/s320/DSCN1398.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> I have heard many stories about this pie, but I had never eaten it! It was very good! Choice beverages tonight were Bordeaux, Sauvignon Blanc, Oktoberfest, and Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka on Ice!cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-37982566648197765202010-10-29T22:21:00.001-04:002010-11-01T20:32:30.596-04:00Oh, Wilgo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tonight, I made one of Mary's recipes for coffee cake to bring to my cousin's 15th birthday party on Sunday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY WILLIAM (aka Will, aka Wilgo)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmVVyHs5AaBEC8BQiSCYQEq8DMW4dLFBgoLKSnobVAq8UyDkU9oo0H1x4aeFU9ETZLen8Y0AkV4EatXlWx_KKnH1wYvqo3mhGyetY6JEPdoAT4Zz_PF7sylL_MV_N1n3wF9zKXiI2AVMqc/s1600/scan0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmVVyHs5AaBEC8BQiSCYQEq8DMW4dLFBgoLKSnobVAq8UyDkU9oo0H1x4aeFU9ETZLen8Y0AkV4EatXlWx_KKnH1wYvqo3mhGyetY6JEPdoAT4Zz_PF7sylL_MV_N1n3wF9zKXiI2AVMqc/s320/scan0017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> William and Mary (1996)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">By no means do I feel old, but I remember when William was born! Now he is 15 years old, in high school, and talking about girls!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The recipe that I found for his brunch birthday came out great. I can't quite make out who's coffee cake recipe it is...I think it says Blanch. Whoever it belongs to, it is apparently "Very Good" according to Mary's note on the recipe card. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">B (can't read name) Coffee Cake</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(written on plain recipe card in green ink)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ingredients:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 cup walnuts (broken)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 cup sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp cinnamon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 cups flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 eggs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup sour cream</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1tsp baking powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp baking soda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp vanilla</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Preheat the oven to 350</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 cup shortening</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Combine in a small bowl 1/2 cup walnuts (broken), 1/2 cup sugar, </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp cinnamon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In a large bowl, beat together 1/2 cup shortening and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Add</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 cups flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 eggs</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup sour cream</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1tsp baking powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp baking soda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp vanilla</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">and beat until well blended. Beat 3 minutest longer.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Spread 1/2 batter into greased 9inch tube pan. Sprinkle with 1/2 nut mixture. Spread on remaining batter and top with rest of mixture. Bake @ 55 minutes, until cake tester comes out clean. Remover from pan. Makes about 10 servings. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now of course I wrapped it up before taking a picture, so I will have to add it later. Drink choice of the night is some delicious $3 wine from Trader Joe's...you can't go wrong with good $3 wine! :) </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-76578859709067107762010-10-23T18:48:00.000-04:002010-10-23T18:48:23.460-04:00"Cousin to Cousin...we'll always be special friends from the same family tree"<br />
<br />
That lame-o saying was on a pillow that my cousins gave me (as a joke) for Christmas when I was in college. I have this extremely extra-ordinary relationship with my cousins, especially my cousin Alison and Nicholas. Growing up as an only child, my cousins were the closest things to a brother/sister relationship that I had. Now as adults, we talk on a regular basis, occasionally fight like siblings and I spend probably 2 afternoons/nights a week at Alison's.<br />
<br />
Both of them had a very similar relationship with Mary that I had, spending nights over her house and getting special treats that weren't allowed by their mother! I will always remember the months after Mary's passing that I spent with my cousins reflecting on her life and eating apple pie and Entenmanns pastry on her birthday. <br />
<br />
Now, one of the cousins (Nicholas) is getting married!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsvZOq7_F89VFR9KRv31sb32eTbqtetCFNYx33jG4RaBb5LeWODHcsWtoTYobykXgd2zHG44SbZwN88lC8AyqrLHxkG3TK5g7FrShUeeDDMjaAoQ2EslFxaP67FR9S2Yb8trbmHGNn7zi1/s1600/nick+and+lindsay+%282%29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsvZOq7_F89VFR9KRv31sb32eTbqtetCFNYx33jG4RaBb5LeWODHcsWtoTYobykXgd2zHG44SbZwN88lC8AyqrLHxkG3TK5g7FrShUeeDDMjaAoQ2EslFxaP67FR9S2Yb8trbmHGNn7zi1/s320/nick+and+lindsay+%282%29.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lindsay and Nicholas (aka Diddy)</div><br />
Tomorrow is Linsday's bridal shower, so I am baking up a storm . In order to make sure that Mary is "present" at the shower and well represented, I decided to make her Dubes:<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Dubes </span>(aka Peach Blossoms aka Peanut Blossoms)<br />
(written on a fruit adorned recipe card)<br />
<br />
1/2 cup shortening, softenened<br />
1/2 cup peanut butter<br />
2 tbsp milk<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
1 egg<br />
1/2 cup packed brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp soda<br />
1 3/4 cup flour<br />
chocolate kisses<br />
<br />
Combine all ingredients except kisses in a large bowl. Mix at lowest speed until dough forms. Shape dough into balls using a tsp for each ball. Roll in sugar and place on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Top each cookie immediately with a chocolate kiss. Allow to cool completely. <br />
<br />
In addition to the Dubes, I made <a href="http://www.espressoandcream.com/2010/07/nutella-chocolate-chip-cookies.html">Nutella Cookies</a>....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJOEO4GlaqiRJX-zPMBH1G3Ayk2DYlH6uUehnx5yfvgOkLtPLfzntinj8NKcnbj4ZzWL4T4G3C_4mT2ur_u2Iv5cG7TRua7DRRBDskNPki_Dv2BH_BjquKTF0Hrjmm-sBs0ojyf1eK5jc/s1600/DSCN1382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmJOEO4GlaqiRJX-zPMBH1G3Ayk2DYlH6uUehnx5yfvgOkLtPLfzntinj8NKcnbj4ZzWL4T4G3C_4mT2ur_u2Iv5cG7TRua7DRRBDskNPki_Dv2BH_BjquKTF0Hrjmm-sBs0ojyf1eK5jc/s320/DSCN1382.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> (Nutella cookies on left and Dubes on right)</div><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://fortheloveofsucrose.blogspot.com/2010/05/whiskey-apple-pie-now-with-more-whiskey.html%20">Whiskey Apple Pie</a> (for Matt's football game tomorrow)...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVr7Ui2xtn8I4jlfcOEulEMc5SMLCBs78L3sjduzMy2MP1D024T4YycHhhFQbWiDiGAqVpPrspc1nMu9R_bjDMc2DA2fhsa1n3l6r7pMXpYU2FjmTpvwUluoWGBQ6ywYFYtkxneqE3iiI/s1600/DSCN1371.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVr7Ui2xtn8I4jlfcOEulEMc5SMLCBs78L3sjduzMy2MP1D024T4YycHhhFQbWiDiGAqVpPrspc1nMu9R_bjDMc2DA2fhsa1n3l6r7pMXpYU2FjmTpvwUluoWGBQ6ywYFYtkxneqE3iiI/s320/DSCN1371.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
and <a href="http://realmomkitchen.com/468/pumpkin-bars/">Pumpkin Spice Bar</a>s (no picture).<br />
<br />
<br />
all done in very styling baking attire....a beautiful new apron from my mom! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgri6FNKiTC34nPpmfajxLxHKSS560nyPPR1uMAaxRkYEUyQeBpBWtG-Fk7CHPmJj-c1QKV5_uyCLv_rLsQCiBielgMSRXY2mhllnLWnOKoHbaCls_2CACUJr0_IEB8loM3FHXMzc_jXV-O/s1600/DSCN1368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgri6FNKiTC34nPpmfajxLxHKSS560nyPPR1uMAaxRkYEUyQeBpBWtG-Fk7CHPmJj-c1QKV5_uyCLv_rLsQCiBielgMSRXY2mhllnLWnOKoHbaCls_2CACUJr0_IEB8loM3FHXMzc_jXV-O/s320/DSCN1368.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-20585561568982799352010-10-16T17:56:00.002-04:002010-10-16T18:01:58.356-04:00Hermits baked by a hermitIt is a very windy day here on the North Shore. After doing all of the usual adult morning activities (laundry and grocery shopping), I decided to hunker down in my pajamas and shut out the chaos of Salem for awhile. Today I baked one of my top favorite cookies by Mary: Hermits!<br />
<br />
The actual recipe is called the Harwich Hermit. After doing a little investigation, it turns out that this cookie dates back to the 1800s. It is believed that seamen took these cookies with them on trading ships because the dried fruit in the cookie kept them soft and fresh tasting for an extended time. Some say that the name hermit refers to the cookies long-keeping nature--they're best when hidden away like a hermit for several days and Harwich comes from Harwich, MA which is in Cape Cod...one of Mary's favorite places! <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Hermits</span><br />
(recipe cut out of newspaper and glued onto recipe card)<br />
1/2 cup butter, at room temperature<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
2 eggs<br />
1/2 cup molasses<br />
2 cups all purpose flour<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/4 tsp nutmeg<br />
1/4 tsp mace<br />
1/2 tsp ground cloves<br />
1 cup raisins<br />
<br />
Heat oven to 350. Butter and flour a 13X9 inch baking pan<br />
Beat the butter with the sugar until creamy<br />
Beat in the eggs and molasses and blend well<br />
Sift the flour with the salt, baking powder, and spices and stir into butter mixture until batter is smooth<br />
Stir in raisins<br />
Pour into prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes<br />
Allow to cool completely before cutting<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji0aCKqn-meMtQDDBCLFqt1DgL1vBfdBx6aFSEe4qfTa6VJRkPxa7DQ0N8L2630V9wj58XuThD2_lxFJ0hB1_0hgX4ElcC_osei8H70efyQnrd3ywF2i8oIcPijGJcXl161fctk5cdtKv_/s1600/DSCN1360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji0aCKqn-meMtQDDBCLFqt1DgL1vBfdBx6aFSEe4qfTa6VJRkPxa7DQ0N8L2630V9wj58XuThD2_lxFJ0hB1_0hgX4ElcC_osei8H70efyQnrd3ywF2i8oIcPijGJcXl161fctk5cdtKv_/s320/DSCN1360.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I made two batches of these cookies. The recipe called for 15 minutes of baking, but the first batch of cookies came out very chewy. The second batch I cooked for about 20 minutes and they came out much better.cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-9538177883496353072010-10-09T18:34:00.000-04:002010-10-09T18:34:45.740-04:00The city is alive with the sound of tourists It is officially October in Salem. The streets are crammed with tourists, monster mash music radiates throughout the city, and a destination that took 2 minutes to drive to now takes 30 minutes. Halloween has become a buzz kill for most of Salem residents and all of our usual weekend spots are unattainable until November 1st. Rather than fighting off masses wearing witches hats, I stayed in and baked.<br />
I wanted to try a few recipes that I was not very familiar with, but that many of the family members had been asking about. For my cousin Alison, I made Mary's Filled Cookies.. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Filled Cookies</span><br />
(written on a recipe card with a Dutch Couple holding cooking utensils?)<br />
<br />
Filling:<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 cup water<br />
1tsp vinegar<br />
1 1/2 cups raisins<br />
2 tbsp flour mixed with a little water<br />
<br />
Mix together and boil slowly until mixture thickens. Cool<br />
<br />
Cookie<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1/2 cup shortening<br />
1 egg beaten<br />
1/2 cup milk<br />
3 1/2 cups flour<br />
2 tsp cream of tartar<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
dash of salt<br />
<br />
Mix ingredients together and roll out dough. Cut 2 inch circles and place on cookie sheet. Fill each cookie with raisin filling and top with another cookie to make a sandwich. Bake for 12 minutes at 375 degrees.<br />
<br />
Makes very best cookie (written on bottom of card) <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWwWhlcyhwASJ8FS_lvYaxLpYP4zQ4aSQde-A9IyFeInhmKiSIwI4wDiWiKvIhNa7kRYY7OiJ_uJ2-OLPakvakFSEv9H_DmUbF11WWVBL5k_VoJb_y-WLK6VzP7kcy14l617Lgak0aGQ9/s1600/DSCN1339.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWwWhlcyhwASJ8FS_lvYaxLpYP4zQ4aSQde-A9IyFeInhmKiSIwI4wDiWiKvIhNa7kRYY7OiJ_uJ2-OLPakvakFSEv9H_DmUbF11WWVBL5k_VoJb_y-WLK6VzP7kcy14l617Lgak0aGQ9/s320/DSCN1339.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I had never had these cookies before so I don't have anything to compare them to, but they were tasty. My husband said that they taste like pop tart...OK, but no.<br />
<br />
<br />
I also made Pumpkin Raisin Bread. This was my first attempt at a yeast bread without Mary so I was a little nervous, but it came out great! While making this recipe, I noticed that for the first time since starting this endeavor, the kitchen smelled just like Mary's. For me, her house always smelled like a mixture of yeast, flour and pumpkin. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Raisin Pumpkin Bread</span><br />
(cut from newspaper and glued onto a recipe card adorned with fruit)<br />
<br />
1 cup milk<br />
1/2 cup water<br />
1/4 cup margarine<br />
1 cup pumpkin<br />
2 eggs (at room temperature)<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
2 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp nutmeg<br />
2 packages active dry yeast<br />
1 cup raisins<br />
6-7 cups flour<br />
<br />
Combine milk, water, and margarine in a saucepan and heat until lukewarm. Pour into mixing bowl, add eggs, pumpkin, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, yeast, and 1 cup of flour and beat for 2 minutes with electric beater. Add raisins. Stir. Then, stirring by hand, gradually add the balance of the flour until the dough no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl.<br />
Place dough on lightly floured board and knead for 7 to 8 minutes, adding only enough flour to the board to keep the dough from sticking. Place in greased bowl, turning over to grease top, cover and let rise in a warm place until double in bulk. Punch down, remove from bowl and cut into 2 or 3 pieces, depending upon whether you want to make 2 large or 3 small loaves. Place in greased bread pans, cover, and let rise until double in bulk. Bake in preheated 375 degree oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until done. Remove immediately from pans and cool on a wire rack. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZLAReVedvlrtvXwgMDNWaCIgFy7gnUgh2lk2XaiOc1LLqgvnu24UmNuDwMboNIwvSofDrPgMLN3ncIKYsw-pT77In8KRhQfPGV9dqnPX25NiS4TnteMEaqkgD4lnCDtN3dEhGj2pSyUqr/s1600/DSCN1346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZLAReVedvlrtvXwgMDNWaCIgFy7gnUgh2lk2XaiOc1LLqgvnu24UmNuDwMboNIwvSofDrPgMLN3ncIKYsw-pT77In8KRhQfPGV9dqnPX25NiS4TnteMEaqkgD4lnCDtN3dEhGj2pSyUqr/s320/DSCN1346.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>YUM!<br />
<br />
A little cocktail note as well. When we were having dinner a few weeks ago at the home of my bestest and her hubby, they whipped us up a wonderful autumnal treat:<br />
<br />
1/2 bottle of Sam Adams October fest<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPpqltT576Kc907X2SN6nz8v0zNVMbKZGpxGTr6TVM7_nJBDjT681kBB4ZUkcK7YCD27KfH1udxu1QNwf8ra4mrpLfbIqJQN6a73KdlfowmHvfo3XXeyou777vZo8lIL6N1Diea1ywoP4P/s1600/octoberfest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPpqltT576Kc907X2SN6nz8v0zNVMbKZGpxGTr6TVM7_nJBDjT681kBB4ZUkcK7YCD27KfH1udxu1QNwf8ra4mrpLfbIqJQN6a73KdlfowmHvfo3XXeyou777vZo8lIL6N1Diea1ywoP4P/s200/octoberfest.jpg" width="133" /></a></div> mixed with 1/2 bottle of Woodchuck Hard Cider<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWF8J9VMWk1I8gPHcO2HVeQFL-BIX8AONleKlqP2kVrt9faNXIvO6MKDHA4JyCssZBmzT9z5pLO90IDd4G5xOefpOhmOukESGz1h_1fvzYu-Lin7LkstnQcr2OjQeLA7rUK9NEyiycBlQ/s1600/cider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCWF8J9VMWk1I8gPHcO2HVeQFL-BIX8AONleKlqP2kVrt9faNXIvO6MKDHA4JyCssZBmzT9z5pLO90IDd4G5xOefpOhmOukESGz1h_1fvzYu-Lin7LkstnQcr2OjQeLA7rUK9NEyiycBlQ/s200/cider.jpg" width="141" /></a></div>It was delicious! Not light on the thighs by any means, but it was worth the splurge!cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-47443113684369081372010-10-04T18:33:00.002-04:002010-10-04T18:54:11.126-04:00Baking and wine are like Yoga for the mindToday was the first really cold and rainy day this fall. After work, I skipped the gym and came home to turn on the heat, poor a glass of wine, and bake some cookies. As I was baking, I was thinking about how this project goes against the grain of what America is trying to do...eat healthier! Baking all of these delicious treats (and drinking the liquor) goes against my own ongoing attempt at a healthy life style. But you know? Today was Monday, the kids couldn't have recess to get out all of their energy and wine was necessary...as were the baked goods! Baking and wine are like Yoga for the mind. Mary would have done the same! <br />
<br />
I wanted to whip up a quick cookie recipe that I could make before Matt jetted off to the football game and that I could finish before having to do more school work. I found Mary's recipe for Oatmeal Cookies...another round of Guess how we make that recipe!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you can see from the recipe there is no explanation on what to mix what what first. That's fine, I can deal with that. But hey...What temperature? How long should they be baked for? Do you want them on a greased or ungreased cookie sheet? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I played around with a few trays I think I got it:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">Oatmeal Cookies</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(written on recipe card with an Italian motif)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup shortening, softened</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 eggs beaten</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 tbsp milk</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1tsp salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/4 tsp baking powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1tsp cinnamon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1/2 tsp salt</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 cups flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 cups oats</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup raisins</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">combine sugar, butter, eggs, and milk. Add dry ingredients. Drop cookies by teaspoonful on GREASED cookie sheet. Dip knife in cold water and spread each cookie out (I didn't do this...I just stuck with the "Drop" explanation in the title). Bake for 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHXtmsgnKR-EUevpI-XLqnhbZJwyxuBZlXWPSHJ-mY3Pez9BYNbbpSc129oBCWmGoVIyxUwDdwTEdd199lhbjg5_-qki6oaVevyFKmnMuNdt5zh2WhQ4I8wcGsKctoOKRagXQn78M3Uh7/s1600/DSCN1333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHXtmsgnKR-EUevpI-XLqnhbZJwyxuBZlXWPSHJ-mY3Pez9BYNbbpSc129oBCWmGoVIyxUwDdwTEdd199lhbjg5_-qki6oaVevyFKmnMuNdt5zh2WhQ4I8wcGsKctoOKRagXQn78M3Uh7/s320/DSCN1333.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-9627190176978054262010-10-01T21:27:00.001-04:002010-10-01T21:31:17.581-04:00And the ingredients are???Despite the 80 degree weather yesterday, fall is in the air. The start of fall marks the start of some of Mary's best bread and cookie recipes! Since beginning this endeavor, I have been waiting to make her Pumpkin Bread! <br />
I was faced with a bit of a challenge when trying to bake this recipe. Mary had nice handwriting, but many of her abbreviated words are difficult to read. Nothing, however, compared to this recipe which had originally been written by Mary and then re-written by my mother....with the ingredients either missing or repeated.<br />
<br />
exhibit A:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiej8mojtU6jB-J1KUTSaawdYqTJvNv6SgghXXA-VaX1fCy2_aPIDvsx3orvpOosxJdGEJopAXOad-aDFjEcqPF_Mab5jJAFEHiPXsDfbj-5LixgDFPwfADU80QXuDQ0WWQW5MNaFMN_9fX/s1600/pumpkin+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiej8mojtU6jB-J1KUTSaawdYqTJvNv6SgghXXA-VaX1fCy2_aPIDvsx3orvpOosxJdGEJopAXOad-aDFjEcqPF_Mab5jJAFEHiPXsDfbj-5LixgDFPwfADU80QXuDQ0WWQW5MNaFMN_9fX/s400/pumpkin+bread.jpg" width="372" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you can see, baking soda is written 3 times and apparently you are supposed to add 2 cups of ????</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After some research, I think I came up with the correct proportions:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 cup pumpkin</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4 eggs, beaten</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 1/4 cups oil</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 cups sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 cups flour</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 tsp baking soda</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 tsp cinnamon</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 tsp vanilla</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 tsp baking powder</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mix eggs, sugar, oil, and pumpkin. Add the vanilla. Add the dry ingredients. Bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The amount of mixture seemed to be too much for one pan, so I divided it into 2 loaves. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkSH2Y-sJp2UF3r0BGV_1CMIYZ0LdiabmF0JWUbU1Y7tbpb1K3_73_ZnwXyE099-RWy-jAAmlcbiE1j2nuMh8DS2hPbuTGuBjAYjf1A7oEDFKsEs8ermYHSqTns0wajksiSfKUml0VJaj/s1600/DSCN1328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUkSH2Y-sJp2UF3r0BGV_1CMIYZ0LdiabmF0JWUbU1Y7tbpb1K3_73_ZnwXyE099-RWy-jAAmlcbiE1j2nuMh8DS2hPbuTGuBjAYjf1A7oEDFKsEs8ermYHSqTns0wajksiSfKUml0VJaj/s320/DSCN1328.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Despite having to guess on this recipe, it ended up being very tasty. I cooked the loaves for @ 40-50 minutes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-18671615324642867912010-09-25T13:55:00.000-04:002010-09-25T13:55:11.696-04:00Butterscotch CakeAnother weekend of football, so another dessert is needed. I kept passing up this recipe because it seemed somewhat complex for a Mary recipe. Most of her recipes call for the standard ingredients in two bowls. I am wondering if this recipe was actually one of her mothers due to the age of the recipe card and the printing which is similar to Mary's with a little more elegance.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Butterscotch Cake </span><br />
(written on yellowed-with-age recipe card)<br />
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1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed<br />
1/4 cup butter<br />
1/4 cup milk<br />
1 1/4 cup hot milk<br />
1/2 cup shortening<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp vanilla<br />
3/4 cup brown sugar, firmly packed<br />
3 eggs, well beaten<br />
3 cup sifted cake flour<br />
3 tsp baking powder<br />
<br />
Combine 1 cup brown sugar, butter and 1/4 cup milk in a pan and cook, stirring constantly, until a small amount forms a hard ball in cold water (this took about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/4 cup hot milk. Cool. Combine shortening, salt, and vanilla. Add 3/4 cup brown sugar gradually and cream until light and fluffy. Beat eggs until light and beat into caramel mixture, gradually. Sift flour and baking powder 3 times and add gradually to cream mixture, alternating with butterscotch mixture beating until smooth after each addition. Pour batter into 9X13 pan and bake @ 350 for @ 30 minutes.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx1Sz61do5wXdG9kE1UCMqzPg3EtXW2YjZ22U8D-d6eUZHqOPTawb9TpcvedxdIHA4noHg4GH3Yjt4cWzJ4UF9T7CCFH7ASYbEzBmrXhRt5JR5vcEg-klNCZAsaqaFyHdDdo9wqdtzmvgW/s1600/DSCN1316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx1Sz61do5wXdG9kE1UCMqzPg3EtXW2YjZ22U8D-d6eUZHqOPTawb9TpcvedxdIHA4noHg4GH3Yjt4cWzJ4UF9T7CCFH7ASYbEzBmrXhRt5JR5vcEg-klNCZAsaqaFyHdDdo9wqdtzmvgW/s320/DSCN1316.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This cake, despite the 17 pounds of sugar was not overly sweet. I decided to make a quick icing for the top using:<br />
<br />
4 tbsp butter<br />
1/2 cup packed brown sugar<br />
1/8 cup milk<br />
1/2 tsp vanilla<br />
1 cup powdered sugar<br />
Melt the butter, brown sugar, and milk in saucepan stirring constantly until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat and add vanilla and powdered sugar. Cool slightly and then drizzle over cake.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdLd6yhY3eY5bp8NyFe6PXkcPNuceWgChy_fYCZQdJLPFUlcOMgWxP6NePWQLolKEp7NOwwZl8ItZVfFbfqBU_pFwxm2cKi-qOr5mn1yVIpa10BwmALhqjPhJrXOYpue7oDx02w3QLEgH/s1600/DSCN1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKdLd6yhY3eY5bp8NyFe6PXkcPNuceWgChy_fYCZQdJLPFUlcOMgWxP6NePWQLolKEp7NOwwZl8ItZVfFbfqBU_pFwxm2cKi-qOr5mn1yVIpa10BwmALhqjPhJrXOYpue7oDx02w3QLEgH/s320/DSCN1321.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Since it is Saturday, I will be partaking in one of the $3 bottles of wine from Trader Joe's...not only is that store amazing, but they also sell pretty decent $3 wines. Life doesn't get much better! My words of advice, do not drink until after baking this recipe! If you decide to do both simultaneously, you will end up with a burnt clump of caramel. This is one of those recipes that requires concentration and attention! :) cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5188115016030097279.post-77085667233975366472010-09-23T20:48:00.001-04:002010-09-23T20:58:30.846-04:00Happy Birthday Mary! Today marks what would have been Mary's 98th birthday! I have been thinking for awhile of a way to celebrate this day that would be fitting for her.<br />
What I remember most about Mary was not just her love for her family and baking, but the act of combining those two by teaching the younger generations how to bake and spending time with them in the kitchen. I did just that to commemorate her special day. <br />
My cousin Alison and I baked Mary's Sugar Cookie Recipe with her son's Henry and Gus. Mary passed away shortly after Henry was born. He often watches "The Mary movie" that my cousins and I made using all of her slides after her passing, but he never had the privilege of really knowing her. However, I feel by baking her recipe and using her cookie cutters, a bit of Mary was celebrated today.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNOkE7TwiMZOGni9XiDchtecwbryyurYl9uKivdnLLRBmXYvh77lYloRfJRG8OQVGvSh6Md4SIZ6g_J4LYloEz8-LnE_knMJS2Nnd_Gnt4GlwfZvF5Wwqymrm0gxqgBNrgcLeSn-uJDduE/s1600/gus+cookie.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNOkE7TwiMZOGni9XiDchtecwbryyurYl9uKivdnLLRBmXYvh77lYloRfJRG8OQVGvSh6Md4SIZ6g_J4LYloEz8-LnE_knMJS2Nnd_Gnt4GlwfZvF5Wwqymrm0gxqgBNrgcLeSn-uJDduE/s320/gus+cookie.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmBguqG5Clp6VfsR58o_tqdT6CN5iQldlpo_7F5Ku_asFG9wB6vH406q6HQWp5DSXUxk04sruhDgaBxt70X4hUu9vHE4ii1FlZ1sjiGsLmZWB0YMaBVYbk_orpI3roRWUxwJd_2tRe85fe/s1600/henry+cookie.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmBguqG5Clp6VfsR58o_tqdT6CN5iQldlpo_7F5Ku_asFG9wB6vH406q6HQWp5DSXUxk04sruhDgaBxt70X4hUu9vHE4ii1FlZ1sjiGsLmZWB0YMaBVYbk_orpI3roRWUxwJd_2tRe85fe/s320/henry+cookie.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">(Sorry for the poor quality images, I had to use my cell phone to capture the moment)</div><br />
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Out of all her recipes, the sugar cookie recipe is the one that she made with us the most. Every school holiday party was a chance to bake cookie cutter shaped treats in her kitchen. I whipped up her recipe last night, but between the car ride to the house today and being mushed between the hands of a 5 year old, they weren't quite roll-able. We still managed to eek out a cow shaped cookie and some circles and they were delicious!<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Sugar Cookies</span><br />
(written in green ink on plain recipe card)<br />
<br />
3/4 cup shortening<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
2 eggs (room temperature)<br />
1/2 tsp lemon<br />
1/2 tsp vanilla<br />
2 1/2 cups sifted flour<br />
1 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 400. Cream shortening, sugar, egg, lemon, and vanilla. Stir in flour, baking powder and salt. Chill for 1 hour. Roll dough 1/8inch thick. Cut on floured board. Cook on ungreased baking sheet for 6-8 minutes. Makes 4 dozen Mary sized cookies so approximately 2-3 dozen in reality!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Happy Birthday Mary! </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOkdh2wStqsmRvricnNBAX-oNY6svrBhFSqdMZzqYdyKSa9ymrg0UkAHb6JRS1vzVPfcp8KvWuAidweHb2CceuagMXVypjU78FliD9QNBMyYfO9rnXOYCzKWz8NAu9xu82IzVhiicapg_H/s1600/n9102406_35426446_6045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOkdh2wStqsmRvricnNBAX-oNY6svrBhFSqdMZzqYdyKSa9ymrg0UkAHb6JRS1vzVPfcp8KvWuAidweHb2CceuagMXVypjU78FliD9QNBMyYfO9rnXOYCzKWz8NAu9xu82IzVhiicapg_H/s400/n9102406_35426446_6045.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>cheechhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11660498683115515950noreply@blogger.com1