Favorite Family Recipes

Baked Chicken

2010-08-04T22:06:00.008-04:00

This will work whether you are baking a whole chicken, chicken breasts, or tenderloins. Great flavor and very moist.

Chicken
Garlic powder
Salt
Pepper
Bay Leaves
Paprika
Basil
Onion

Place foil in a baking dish; spray with cooking spray. Place chicken in the dish and season with the garlic powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and basil- to taste. Add 2 bay leaves. Slice 1 onion into rings or chunks and arrange around and on top of the chicken. Add 1/2 cup of water. Check throughout baking to see if more water is needed.
Bake at 375:
Whole Chicken: approx. 2- 2 1/2 hours
Split Chicken Breasts: approx 1 1/2 hours
Tenderloins: approx. 30minutes

Chicken is done when tender and juices run clear

Chocolate Zucchini Bread

2010-08-04T21:44:00.005-04:00

This bread is oh-so-soft, a beautiful deep chocolate color, and has excellent taste and texture. I love it! It was a big hit with my husband and kids, too. If you prefer to make it more like traditional zucchini bread, I've included those notes below, as well. The recipe makes 2 loaves, so it is great to make one for your family, and one to share with a neighbor or friend!
Enjoy!
~Kari

2 cups shredded fresh zucchini
3 eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup all-purpose flour flour
1 cu whole wheat flour (I like to use King Arthur Whole Wheat flour)
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 c. cocoa
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla

Shred zucchini; place in strainer and press or squeeze with hands to get rid of some of the extra liquid. In a mixing bowl beat eggs, sugar, and oil together. Stir in the flours, baking powder, soda, cinnamon, salt, and cocoa, mixing just until all ingredients are combined. Add vanilla; mix; Add drained zucchini. Mix well. Pour into 2 greased and floured 8 1/2 x 4 1/2-inch loaf pans. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes at 350°, or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Notes for non-chocolate version.
Simply omit the cocoa.
You could also add about 1/2- 3/4 c. raisins and/or walnuts or pecans, if desired

Peach Blueberry Muffins

2010-07-29T08:03:00.002-04:00

For me, one of the wonderful things about summer is enjoying lots of fresh fruit in many different ways. These muffins, for instance, are bursting with fresh summer fruits- peaches and blueberries!

~Kari

1 egg

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup vegetable oil

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 cup wheat flour

1/2 cup sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup chopped fresh peaches

3/4 cups fresh blueberries

In a bowl, beat egg; add milk and oil; mix well. Add flour, sugar, baking powder and salt; stir into the egg mixture just until moistened. Stir in the peaches and blueberries. Fill greased muffin cups three-fourths full. Bake at 400° (375 for dark pans) for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in a muffin comes out clean. Cool for 5-7 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack. Yield: 10 muffins-12 muffins

Big Batch Birthday Brownies

2010-05-13T19:00:00.009-04:00

Here is a great dessert for a large family, like ours! This was Adam's (age 4) birthday dessert this year. The made-from-scratch icing really makes this easy dessert extra special.

Brownies:
3 boxed brownie mixes (9x13 size ea.)

Lightly grease a 12x18in. sheet pan (i know that might be a harder-to-find size- but if you have a large family, it is a great pan and would be worth the purchase..find it here)

Prepare and bake brownies according to package directions

Allow to cool completely

Chocolate Butter Cream Icing:
1 stick margarine, softened to room temperature
1/4 cup milk
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla
1 pound (about 4 cups) confectioners sugar
6-8 T. cocoa
2 T. margarine, softened
Dash of salt
Milk

Place 1 stick margarine, 1/4 c. milk, 1/4 tsp.salt, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Cover with about 2 cups of sugar. Begin mixing slowly- add the other 2 cups of sugar and slowly mix until sugar is moistened. Increase mixing speed and mix until blended and fluffy.
In a small bowl, mix the cocoa, 2 T. margarine, and dash of salt. Add this to the prepared butter cream mixture and mix well. Add milk a Tablespoon at a time until frosting reaches spreading consistency (approx. 1 or 2 Tbs.)
Spread over cool brownies

Topping:
1 large bag of M&Ms

Immediately after icing the brownies, sprinkle with your choice of M&Ms.

Serves approx: 30 people

Caramel Squares

2010-04-21T13:15:00.007-04:00

This is usually the dessert our second son, Tim, requests for his birthday. These bars boast a soft short-bread like bottom, gooey caramel in the middle, and rich chocolate to top it off. What's not to like!?

Crust:
3/4 c. butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1/4 tsp. salt
2 c. flour
3/4 c. confectioners sugar
1 1/2 Tbs. milk

Cream butter, gradually adding sugar. Add vanilla, milk and salt. Blend in flour; mix well. Press into bottom of a 9x13 pan. Bake 20 minutes at 350.

Filling:
28 caramels
1/4 c. butter
1 c. chopped pecans
1/4 c. evaporated milk
1 c. confectioners sugar

Combine caramels and milk in top of double boiler. Heat until caramels melt, stirring occasionally. remove from heat and add butter and sugar. Mix well. Add nuts. Spread over crust.

Icing:
1 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 c. evaporated milk
2 Tbs. butter
1/2 c. confectioners sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

Combing chips and milk- melt. Stir in remaining ingredients and mix well. Drizzle over the caramel. Cool. Cut into squares before serving.

Potato Casserole

2010-04-21T13:08:00.003-04:00

Even when making 2 batches of this yummy casserole, there is rarely any left! It is great for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish at dinner. (this recipe can be found in Homemade with Love: Treasured Family Recipes of Marilyn Boyer )

2 lb. frozen hash browns
3/4 c. melted butter, divided
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 c. chopped onion
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1pint (16 oz.) sour cream
2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
2 c. crushed corn flakes

Thaw potatoes. In a large bowl, combine potatoes, salt, pepper, onion, soup, 1/2 c. of the butter, sour cream, and cheese. Place in a 3 qt. casserole dish. Mix remaining butter and corn flakes. Sprinkle over the potato mixture. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes. YIELD: 12 servings.
* To prepare ahead of time, cover with foil and store in the refrigerator. Allow more time to bake if cold.

Light Whole Wheat Bread

2010-04-21T12:20:00.007-04:00

This is an excellent recipe for a good wheat bread. I make it often
~Kari

In bread machine combine the following ingredients:

1 1/4 c. water
1 1/2 tsp. salt
3 Tbs. honey (or sugar)
1 1/2 Tbs. butter
1 1/2 Tbs. dry milk
2 cups whole wheat flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. yeast

Set bread machine on dough cycle. When completed, lightly knead and form into a loaf. Place in a greased loaf pan. Let rise in a warm place (30minutes- 1 hour) Bake at 350 until done (approx. 25-30 minutes)

Snow Cream

2010-02-10T12:17:00.002-05:00

In Virginia, we have had a LOT of snow this year. In our home, for many years now, when it snows, that means lots of sledding and it also means Hot Chocolate and Snow Cream! We reserve a nice clean patch of snow with the promise of this treat in mind. We made the recipe up when our oldest boys were little. Everyone looks forward to when Dad cooks up this special treat. Give it a try!
~Marilyn

1 1/2 to 2 c. sugar
2 Tbs. vanilla
2 c. milk
2 eggs
3 qt. clean snow

Combine sugar, vanilla, milk and eggs in saucepan. Boil until sugar is dissolved (about 5 minutes). Cool completely; set pan outside in snow to chill. When cold, combine syrup and snow. Mix thoroughly. Serve immediately.

Browse them all

2009-12-16T15:11:00.001-05:00

Browse all Holiday Recipes
http://boyerfamilyrecipes.blogspot.com/search/label/Holidays

Chocolate Chip Cheeseball

2009-12-16T15:06:00.002-05:00

1 8 oz. Cream cheese
1/2 c. butter
1 tsp vanilla
3/4 c. confectioners sugar
1 pkg.. mini chocolate chips, divided

Beat first 3 ingredients together.
Add sugar and 3/4 chocolate chips

Form mixture into a ball
Chill
Once chilled, roll in remaining chocolate chips

Serve with Wheat Thins or Graham Cracker Sticks

Some Good Christmas Recipe Links

2009-12-16T14:56:00.005-05:00

I thought I'd give you some links to some tasty recipes that I use for Christmas.

Holiday Poke Cake
This first one is the recipe for the cake that we always called the "Jesus Birthday Cake". Mom only made it at Christmas, and we would put candles on it and sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. It's a very pretty cake with the red and green http://brands.kraftfoods.com/jello/recipe.aspxs=recipe&m=recipe/knet_recipe_display&wf=9&recipe_id=53185

Orange-Chip Cranberry Bread
Here is a tasty bread recipe that is perfect for this time of year- complete with cranberries and walnuts, and a little orange zest for an added flavor. This is a good recipe to bake in small bread loaves and give as gifts to neighbors and friends.
http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Orange-Chip-Cranberry-Bread?refurl=&_mid=44500&_rid=44500.1236102280.26370

Easy Oreo Truffles
http://www.kraftfoods.com/kf/recipes/easy-oreo-truffles-95085.aspx

Cherry Jello Salad

2009-12-16T14:44:00.003-05:00

I always make this jello salad to go along with Christmas Eve dinner with my side of the family
~Kari

1 can (20oz.) crushed pineapple, drained (save juice)
3 c. boiling water
1 c. pineapple juice
1 can cherry pie filling
2 (small) pkg. cherry jello

Add boiling water to jello- stir to dissolve
Add reserved pineapple juice (note: if pineapple juice doesn't amount to 1 cup- add water to equal 1 cup)
Refrigerate until thickened, but not congealed
Add filling and pineapple
Refrigerate until set

Topping:
8 oz. cream cheese
8 oz. sour cream
8 oz. cool whip

Cream together sour cream, vanilla, and cream cheese
Fold in whipped topping
Spread gently over set jello.

Refrigerate

Pilgrim Hat Cookies

2009-11-11T07:51:00.004-05:00

1 cup vanilla frosting

7 drops yellow food coloring

32 miniature peanut butter cups

1 package fudge-striped cookies

32 pieces orange mini- Chiclets gum (we used colored M&M's instead)

1. In a small bowl , combine frosting and food coloring. Remove paper liners from peanut butter cups.

2. Holding the bottom of a peanut butter cup, dip top of cup in yellow frosting. Position over center hole of a cookie, forming the hatband and crown. Add a buckle of gum or M&M. Repeat with remaining cups and cookies.

Fall Snack Mix

2009-09-28T18:38:00.005-04:00

I make this snack mix for my family each fall. We all love it. The sweet and salty flavors of these ingredients really taste great together. It's fun to make- the kids could help- and looks like fall, too, with all the oranges and browns!
~Kari

Reese Pieces
Raisins
Honey Roasted Peanuts
Candy Corn

Mix all these ingredients together in a large bowl you can seal up tightly, to ensure freshness. (you choose the portions)

Lever House Macaroons...great for Fall!!

2009-09-28T18:30:00.004-04:00

My Mom made these cookies frequently, but when we would have parties at school, she would make them larger and insert straws in them so we could hold them like a lollipop. They were a favorite with all the kids. Sometimes she'd put candy corn on them for eyes, nose and mouth.
The cookies have a really good taste!
~Marilyn...from Marilyn's cookbook Homemade with Love

1 c. shortening
3/4 c. firmly packed brown sugar
3/4 c. granulated sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
2 unbeaten eggs
1/2 c. chopped walnuts
1 1/4 c. flour
1 tsp. soda
3 c. rolled oats

Combine shortening, sugars, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and eggs. Beat thoroughly. Stir in walnuts. Sift together flour and soda. Add to shortening mixture and blend. Stir in oats. Place dough by tablespoons on greased cookie sheets, leaving a little space between. Press with a fork. Bake in 350 oven for 12 to `4 minutes. Cool about 2 minutes before removing from sheet.
YIELD: 5 1/2 dozen
VARIATION: For Lollipop Cookies prepare dough as directed above. Just before baking, insert a lollipop stick, paper drinking straw, or wooden skewer into each mound of dough with sticksparallel to the sheet to make it look like a lollipop. Decorate with facial features. (use Candy corn, M&Ms, gumdrops, raisins, etc.) Bake as directed.

Calico Beans

2009-09-28T18:21:00.005-04:00

A good meal on a chilly day. Serve with hot fresh bread or rolls!
~Marilyn......From Marilyn's cookbook Homemade with Love

2 c. pinto beans, cooked and drained
2 c. Northern beans, cooked and drained
2 c. red kidney beans, cooked and drained
1 qt. pork and beans
1 lb. ground beef
1 1/2 onions, cut up
3/4 c. brown sugar
2 tsp. salt
1 clove garlic
1/2 c. vinegar
1/2 c. ketchup

Preheat oven to 325. Combine beans in a large casserole dish, reserving liquids. Fry the ground beef and onions briefly. Add the brown sugar, salt, garlic, vinegar and ketchup. Cook 5 minutes and pour over the beans. Bake, uncovered, 1 1/2 hours, adding additional liquid if beans become to dry. YIELD: 10 to 12 servings

Taco Dip

2009-09-14T21:36:00.002-04:00

16oz. sour cream
8oz. cream cheese
1 packet taco seasoning

Add all ingredients to mixing bowl. Mix on high speed until blended well. (there may be some small lumps of cream cheese remaining)

Refrigerate.

Serve with Tortilla chips

My Favorite Bread Machine Pizza Crust

2009-09-14T21:25:00.003-04:00

This is a great and quick pizza crust. I use wheat flour, also, adding to the nutritional value.
My husband gobbles this pizza up, and he said he didn't used to like homemade pizza!
~Kari

1/2 tsp. salt
2 c. wheat flour
1 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. active dry yeast
1 c. water
2 Tbs. canola oil
Sprinkle in garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, oregano to taste.

1. Combine all ingredients into bread machine pan
2. Select dough setting
3. When dough is finished, remove and set on greased 12x15 jellyroll pan ( or cookie sheet)
4. Preheat oven to 400
5. Spray hands with cooking spray, to make it easier to work with the dough
6. Press dough evenly into the pan

7.Top with:

1 jar pizza sauce
8 oz. bag pizza cheese or mozzarella cheese
1/2-1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Chopped Canadian Bacon
(or any topping of your choice)

8. Bake 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is bubbly
9. Allow to sit for about 5 minutes before serving.

Christa's Cinnamon Rolls

2009-09-14T21:18:00.003-04:00

These cinnamon rolls are our daughter, Christa's, specialty. Every year when we go to the beach, she makes these in advance and we all look forward to eating them. They are also wonderful paired with a good hot soup in the winter.
~Marilyn

Note: These also work great, using the bread machine to make the dough. Just add the ingredients as directed for your bread machine, set on the dough setting, and then proceed with step 4

1 T. Yeast

1c. Warm Water

1/3c. Sugar
1/2c. Butter of Margarine

1t. Salt

2 Eggs

4c. Wheat Flour

1. Dissolve yeast in water, the add sugar, salt, soft butter and two cups flour; mix well.

Beat in eggs and then add rest of flour.

2. Knead approx. 8 min. (I just put it on highest setting of Bosch, kitchen aid would be fine too.)

3. Let rise until doubled

4. Roll out onto floured surface and spread with 1/4c.butter and then cinnamon mixture. (see below), roll into log and cut into 1in pieces.

5. Bake in greased pans @ 400 for exactly 10 minutes.

6. Ice while hot.

1c. Brown Sugar

3T. Cinnamon

Icing

1/2c. Soft Butter or Margarine

1 1/2c. Powdered Sugar

1oz. Cream Cheese

2T. Half and Half

1t. Vanilla

Pinch of salt ( I use a large pinch )

Caramel Frosting

2009-09-14T21:15:00.005-04:00

Chocolate caked topped with this frosting is a popular favorite at the Boyer house- especially yummy when it is still a little warm!

1/4 c. marg
1/2 c. packed brown sugar
1 1/4 c. powdered sugar
1/4 tsp. vanilla
2 Tbs. milk

Melt margarine in saucepan. Stir in brown sugar. Cook 2 minutes over low-medium heat while stirring constantly until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat and gradually stir in confectioners sugar, vanilla, and milk; stir well.
Yield: Frosts a 9x13 sheet cake. (to frost a layer cake, you'll need to double the recipe)

Popsicles

2009-06-23T09:49:00.004-04:00

From Homemade with Love by Marilyn

YOGURT POPS

" We make these all summer long. They're nutritious, and the kids and adults love them. We can't keep enough made up! We use ll different types of fruit, fresh or frozen."
~Marilyn

2/3 c. yogurt
2 generous Tbs. honey
1 c. strawberries or other fruit

Put yogurt in blender. Blend and add 1 strawberry at a time until smooth. Add honey and blend. Freeze in popsicle molds.

BANANA POPS

1 c. orange juice
3 bananas, cut into chunks
2 tbs. sugar
1 tbs. lemon juice

Combine all ingredients in blender; blend until smooth.
Pour into popsicle molds; Partially freeze. Insert wooden sticks. Freeze until firm.

RASPBERRY POPS

1 (3 oz.) pkg. raspberry flavored gelatin
1 c. boiling water
1 (8oz) carton raspberry yogurt

Dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Chill until partially set. Add yogurt and beat with electric mixer. Pour into six 3 1/2-ounce paper cups. Freeze. When partially frozen, insert wooden stick. Freeze until firm. YIELD: 6 pops

Stuffed Tomatoes

2009-06-23T09:42:00.003-04:00

An Easy lunch! This is one of Marilyn's favorite summertime lunches- especially when tomatoes are fresh from the garden!

Fresh Tomatoes
Tuna
Mayonnaise or Salad Dressing
Onions (optional)
Celery (optional)

Wash tomatoes
Combine Tuna (drained) and mayonnaise. Add onions and celery, if desired.
Core tomatoes; slice from top to halfway through 4 times to make 8 flower-like petals. Fill with prepared tuna. Serve immediately.

Note: Egg salad may be used in place of tuna salad.

Creamy Pineapple Cake

2009-06-23T09:32:00.003-04:00

This is a great cake for summertime. It's cool, light and creamy...yum!
~Kari

1 yellow cake mix
1 20 oz. can crushed pineapple
1 c. powdered sugar
1- 3oz. pkg. instant vanilla pudding
1 c. coconut (optional)
8 oz. cool whip

~Bake cake mix as directed on the box in 9x13 pan.
~Meanwhile, simmer crushed pineapple and powdered sugar in a saucepan.
~Remove cake from oven- poke holes in the top.
~Cover cake with pineapple.
~Chill
~Mix instant pudding as directed on box. If desired, add coconut.
~Spread over pineapple.
~Cover with Cool Whip.
~Keep Refrigerated.

More Bread Recipes

2009-04-18T11:00:00.006-04:00

In addition to the bread recipes below, check out some of our

older posts
of some of our favorite Bread recipes, that you may have missed!~

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bread

2009-04-18T10:53:00.004-04:00

Here is a popular bread recipe among the Boyer households. By using whole wheat flour, you increase the nutrition. By using the chocolate chips and peanut butter, you give it the tastiness that those who do not care for wheat might desire. Warm out of the oven, this is like a chocolate chip cookie in bread form! Yum!
so- here is the recipe as Kate Boyer Brown gave it to me....

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bread

¼ c. butter, softened

1 c. peanut butter

½ c. sugar

½ c. brown sugar

2 eggs

1 ½ c. buttermilk

2 tsp. vanilla

3 c. flour (I use all whole wheat)

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. baking soda

1 ½ tsp. baking powder

Combine flour, salt, soda and baking powder; set aside.

In separate bowl, combine butter, peanut butter and sugars; mix till light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, scraping after each addition. Add buttermilk and vanilla. Stir in dry mixture and chocolate chips. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes. Yield: 2 loaves.

(Can also bake as 4 mini loaves for 30 minutes or as muffins for 18-20 minutes.)

'My Bananas Are Too Ripe' Banana Muffins

2009-04-18T10:39:00.004-04:00

Every now and again we all will have bananas that have simply gotten too ripe! And of course the cure for this is.....banana bread, or in this case, Banana muffins! Here is one of my favorite basic banana muffin recipes...
~Kari

1/2 c. butter
1 c. sugar
1 egg
1 cup ripe bananas (about 3)
1 tsp. baking soda
2 Tbs. hot water
1 1/2 c. flour (I use 1 cup white and 1/2 cup wheat)
1/2 tsp. salt

1. Preheat oven to 375 (350 for dark pans)
2. Grease 12 muffin cups
3. Cream together butter and sugar in large bowl
4. Add egg to creamed mixture.
5. Add ripe bananas (there is no need to mash them before hand if you are using an electric mixer- it will mash them up while mixing)
6. Dissolve baking soda in hot water in a small bowl; Add to the banana mixture
7. Add flour and salt.
8. Mix until well blended- do not over mix- batter will be lumpy
9. Spoon batter into greased muffin cups.
10. Bake in preheated oven for approx. 20 minutes- or until golden brown

Butter Bread

2009-04-18T10:32:00.004-04:00

~This is a great recipe that my mom makes all the time. It reminds me a little bit of sourdough bread. It is always a hit!
One batch makes 2 loaves, and the ease of a bread machine makes it an easy recipe.
~Kari

Butter Bread

1 c. buttermilk (or milk)
1/4 c. butter or marg., softened
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1 tsp. salt
1/2 c. sugar
4 c. flour (with wheat or rye bread will be denser)
1 pkg. yeast (2 tsp.)

Put all ingredients in bread machine as your directions indicate. Set on dough setting. When dough cycle is completed- turn on floured surface- divide in half.

Place each half in a greased loaf pan. Spray top of bread with cooking spray to stay soft. Allow to rise for at least an hour in a warm place.

Bake at 325 for about 15-20 minutes.

My Notes:

~We always use buttermilk- not milk
~I use a little more than 2 teaspoons of yeast....not quite heaping, but not level, either
~I usually place my bread in the oven to rise after letting the oven heat up on "warm" for a few minutes
~After it bakes, I usually rub a little bit of marg. on it.
~I do not handle the bread much other than turning it on a floured surface. I do not roll it and tuck the ends under in order to shape the bread- I simply lightly form it into a "rectangle" of sorts and place it in the pans.

Enjoy

Tropical Fruit Salad

2009-04-07T08:02:00.004-04:00

This is a great fruit salad that my mom almost always fixes when we have ham. It is not very expensive to make, and it always is very popular!

1 large can pineapple chunks with juice
2 15oz. can mandarin oranges, drained
1 small package vanilla instant pudding

Drain pineapple juice into medium bowl. Add dry pudding and mix well with pineapple juice. Add pineapple chunks and oranges. Chill in refrigerator. Before serving, slice bananas into salad.
YIELD: approx. 6 servings

Cool Lemon Sheet Cake

2009-04-07T07:50:00.003-04:00

I modified this cake from a recipe I found from Taste of Home. This cake reminds me of spring because it is yellow, cool, and light! It also serves a large number of people, which is nice.
It would be a perfect compliment to your Easter dinner!

~Kari

Ingredients:

1 package (18-1/4 ounces) lemon cake mix
4 eggs
1 package (3.5 oz) instant lemon pudding, prepared
1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 cups Domino® or C&H® Pure Cane Powdered Sugar
1 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tsp. lemon extract

Directions:

Prepare lemon pudding as directed on package. In a large bowl, beat the cake mix and eggs until well blended. Fold in lemon pudding.
Spread into a greased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.
In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and confectioners' sugar until smooth. Stir in vanilla and lemon extracts. Spread over cake. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 30-35 servings.

Scallloped Potatoes

2009-04-06T19:14:00.003-04:00

Here is one of the side dishes that the Boyer family traditionally has at our Easter dinner.
~Marilyn

6 to 8 medium potatoes
6 Tbs. marg. or butter
6 Tbs. flour
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
3 c. milk
1/4 c. minced onion
2 c. sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded

Peel potatoes and cut into thin slices. Cover with water and boil for 5 minutes. Drain and pour into a 2-quart casserole. Melt marg. in saucepan. Stir in flour and seasoning. Add milk slowly. Add onion and cheese. Cook and stir continually over medium heat until boiling. Pour over potatoes. Sprinkle with more cheese. Bake at 350 for 30-45 minutes. YIELD: 8 servings

Easter Cake

2009-04-06T19:02:00.004-04:00

Years ago we purchased a Lamb cake pan and a Cross cake Pan. Each Easter, one of the girls will make a cake in one of these pans and then decorate it with icing. Obviously the empty cross is significant for Easter, and the lamb cake pan represents the 'Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the world'.
You could use your favorite cake recipe. Below is the cake we usually use...chocolate of course!

~Marilyn

Collector's Cocoa Cake

3/4 c. shortening, marg. or butter
1 3/4 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
3/4 c. cocoa
1 1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 1/3 c. water
2 c. flour

Cream butter and sugar. Add dry ingredients alternately with water using electric mixer.
Beat Well. Pour into greased and floured pan(s); you may use on 9x13 or 2- 8 or 9-in. layer cake pans. Bake 35 to 40 minutes at 350 or until cake tests done Cool completely before icing. YIELD: 12 to 14 servings.

Bean Dip

2009-03-11T14:51:00.003-04:00

This is a great Hot Dip that my Pastor's wife, Tracey, a dear friend, shared with me after I tasted it and LOVED it at a party she hosted. Thanks Tracey!
~ Kari

2 packages (8 oz ea.) cream cheese
1 16 oz. sour cream
1 can refried beans
1/2 package dry taco seasoning

Mix together.
Cover with 1 cup cheddar cheese and 1 cup mozzarella ( or use 1 bag of fiesta blend cheese)

Bake at 350 for about 25 minutes or until heated through and cheese is melted.

Serve with tortilla chips

Makeover Favorite Corn Bake

2009-03-11T14:45:00.005-04:00

I recently found this recipe in one of the Taste Of Home Magazines, and thought it was worth sharing. It is low fat, but still tastes great! My husband does not usually like this type of dish, but he told me he really liked this one!
~ Kari

1 c. flour
1 c. cornmeal
3 T. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 egg
1 cup (8 oz.) reduced-fat sour cream
1/4 c. unsweetened applesauce
1/4 c. butter, melted
1 1/3 c. frozen corn + 3/4 c. water
1 can (14oz.) cream style corn

1) In a large bowl, combine first 5 ingredients.

2) In a small bowl, whisk egg, sour cream, applesauce, and butter. Stir in Corn. Stir into dry ingredients, just until moistened.

3) Transfer to a greased 9x 13 pan. Bake at 350 for 30-35 minutes or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Serve Warm

Refrigerate leftovers.

Pineapple Cranberry Salad

2009-03-11T14:38:00.003-04:00

Our daughter-in-law, Tina, recently brought this yummy fruit dish up for one of our family nights, and it was a hit! Very light and tasty!
~ Marilyn

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained

2 pkg. (4 serving size each) raspberry jello

1 can (16 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce

1 apple, chopped

2/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

My mom also adds a can of drained mandarin oranges, and that is SO good.

Drain pineapple, reserving juice. Add enough cold water to juice to measure 3 cups; Bring to boil in saucepan, remove from heat. Add jello mixes; stir 2 minutes. Stir in cranberry sauce. Pour into large bowl. Refrigerate 1 1/2 hour or until slightly thickened.

Stir in pineapple, apple, walnuts, and mandarins.

Refrigerate 4 hours or until firm.

Peanut Butter Cake

2009-03-11T14:32:00.002-04:00

One of our favorite cakes! This recipe is from Rick's mom. We serve it at many birthdays and family get-togethers.
~Marilyn

1/2 c. softened butter or marg.
2 1/4 c. flour
3 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
2 eggs
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 c. milk
1/3 c. peanut butter
1 tsp. vanilla

Cream butter. Stir in sugar, flour, baking powder, salt. Add peanut butter and 2/3 c. milk. Beat 2 minutes on low speed (or about 300 strokes by hand) Add remaining 1/3 c. milk, vanilla, and eggs. Beat 2 minutes. Pour into 9x13 greased baking pan or 2 9-inch greased layer cake pans. Bake at 375 for 25 minutes. Frost with Peanut Butter Frosting. (below)

Chocolate Peanut Butter Frosting:

1/3 c. cocoa
1/2 c. peanut butter
2 2/3 powdered sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. cream or evaporated milk
1 tsp. vanilla

Cream cocoa and peanut butter. Add remaining ingredients. Beat until smooth. Spread on cooled cake.

Empire Biscuits

2009-02-07T13:54:00.000-05:00

Cookies in some parts of Europe are called "biscuits," so don't be misled by the name! This recipe was passed down from my husband's grandma to his mom to me, and I've never met anyone yet who didn't like these cookies.

~Kate Boyer Brown

Cookies:
2 1/2 c. flour
7 oz. shortening (can use half butter or margarine)
2/3 c. sugar
1 egg

Roll or pat dough into circle; cut out cookies (approx. 1/4" thickness). Cut into small circles or other shapes (I use hearts for Valentine's Day, anniversaries, etc.!). Bake at 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Cool completely.

Icing:
1 1/2 c. powdered sugar
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
approximately 2 Tbsp. milk (more or less to make right consistency so you can swirl it onto the cookie from a spoon)

Beat icing ingredients with wire whisk until smooth.

Spread raspberry jelly onto one cookie. Top with second cookie to make a sandwich cookie. Repeat with remaining cookies. Ice cookies, and if desired, garnish with sprinkles or maraschino cherries.

Notes: Cookies freeze well. Also, I have substituted lemon extract for the vanilla in the cookies and icing ~ very good!
Makes about 3 dozen cookies, depending on size of cookie cutter you use.

Creamy Baked Chicken

2009-02-05T10:43:00.004-05:00

This recipe has to be one of the top favorites in the Boyer family. It is very rich, and extremely delicious! We usually have it for someone's birthday, company, or other special occasions.

1/2 c. flour
1/3 c. + 1 T. marg. melted and divided
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 1/2 c. whipping cream
1/2 c. bread crumbs

Put flour in a shallow bowl. Combine 1/3 c. marg. and other seasoning in a separate bowl. Coat chicken with flour and then dip in the butter mixture. Arrange in a greased, shallow 3qt. baking dish. Pour cream around the chicken. Bake uncovered @ 350 for 45 minutes- or until chicken is tender. Combine bread crumbs and remaining butter. Sprinkle over chicken. Bake uncovered for 5-8 minutes or until golden brown.
Serves: 6

2009-02-05T10:35:00.004-05:00

Follow this link to many Valentine's Day recipes, from
Betty Crocker, including the recipe for the Indulgent Brownie Torte, pictured at left.

~Kari

Valentine's Jigglers

2009-02-04T09:25:00.004-05:00

Follow this link to find the recipe for the classic Jell-O Jigglers......cut them out into hearts, with small heart cookies cutters for a fun Valentine's Treat.

Server with a bowl of Cool Whip for dipping.

I also liked this suggestion provided by Kraft foods:

"Substitute your favorite fruit juice for the boiling water. Bring just to boil before stirring into dry gelatin mix."

~Kari

Sloppy Joes

2009-01-09T10:00:00.004-05:00

"Large Yield and very tasty! I got this recipe from my son's mother-in-law" ~ Marilyn

4 lb. ground beef
1/2 bottle ketchup
2 Tbs. vinegar
brown sugar
touch of barbecue sauce (optional)

Brown beef with onions. Add ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and barbecue sauce; simmer 30 minutes or until hot. Serve on buns. YIELD: 15 to 20 servings!

(Taken from Homemade with Love cookbook by Marilyn.)

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes

2009-01-09T09:53:00.003-05:00

Taken from Homemade with Love by Marilyn.....
"Delicious with a surprise in the middle"

1 c. flour
1/3 c.cocoa
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp.salt
1/3 c. marg. or shortening
1 c. packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1/2 c. milk

Mix like a cake. Grease muffin tins or use cupcake liners; put 2 Tbs. of batter into each cup or liner. Add 1tsp. filling (recipe below), then more batter. Do not stir filling into batter. Bake at 375 for 20 minutes and frost as desired.

FILLING:
3 oz. cream cheese
1/4 c. peanut butter
1 Tbs. honey
1 Tbs. milk

Apple Cranberry Bread

2008-12-10T14:26:00.003-05:00

I think this is a GREAT bread recipe....and healthy, too! I always stock up on cranberries this time of year and freeze them, for recipes like this one! The apples keep it moist, nuts add texture, and the cranberries give it the perfect punch!
~Kari

2 eggs
3/4 c. sugar
2 T. oil
1 1/2 c. flour
1 1/2. tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 c. chopped, peeled tart apples
1 c. fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 c. chopped walnuts or pecans

In a mixing bowl, beat eggs, sugar, oil. Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, soda, and salt; add egg to mixture just until combined. (thick batter). Stir in apples, cranberries, walnuts. Transfer to a 8x4x2 in. loaf pan, greased. Bake at 350 for 60-65 minutes or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack to cool. YIELD: 1 loaf

Breakfast Casserole

2008-12-10T14:14:00.004-05:00

My mom has fixed this easy and delicious egg casserole for Christmas morning breakfast ever since I an remember! You make it the night before and then you can just pop it in the oven on Christmas morning, whenever you are ready.
~ Kari

2 cups milk
6 eggs
1/2 - 1 cup cheddar, shredded cheese
1 lb. sausage
6-8 bread slices (white bread)
Parmesan cheese

1. Brown sausage; drain well.
2. Combine sausage and cheese in bowl
3. Beat eggs and milk together in a bowl
4. Grease 9x 13 baking dish and line bottom of dish with bread cubes
5. Pour sausage and cheese over bread
6. Add milk and eggs
7. Spinkle on Parmesan cheese
8. Refrigerate over night
9. Bake next day at 350 for 45-50 minutes

YIELD: Serves 8 people

Traditional Sugar Cookies

2008-12-10T13:57:00.003-05:00

Twenty years ago, I purchased a set of Nativity scene cookie cutters. every Christmas since then, I have backed these cookies with my kids, using those cutters. We always take a batch to each of our neighbors' houses with a gospel tract and a bow on top.

~Marilyn

3/4 c. shortening (part butter or margarine) softened
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vanilla or 1/2 tsp. lemon extract
2 1/2 c. all -purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder

Mix thoroughly shortening, eggs, and flavoring. Blend in flour, salt, and baking powder. Cover; Chill at least 1 hour. Heat oven to 400. Roll dough 1/8 inch thick on lightly floured cloth covered board. Cut into desired shapes. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Bake 6 to 8 minutes or until very lightly brown YIELD: about 4 dozen 3 inch cookies.

Butterhorns

2008-12-10T13:40:00.002-05:00

These are a Christmas morning tradition in our family!
~Marilyn

2 pkg. yeast
1 tsp. sugar
6 eggs, well beaten
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 c. melted lard or oil
2 c.lukewarm milk
9 c. flour (approx.)

Soak yeast and sugar in a little warm water. Combine all ingredients, using enough flour to form a soft dough. Let stand until doubled. Take part of dough and roll into round like a pie crust, only about 1/3 inch thick. Cut in pie-like wedges and brush with melted butter. roll each wedge, starting with large end and pinching the point underneath. Bake 18 minutes at 350. Glaze while Still hot

GLAZE:
2 c. powdered sugar
2 tsp. milk

Add milk or water, little by little, until the right consistency is reached.

Chocolate Chess Pie

2008-10-29T13:49:00.001-04:00

"This is a very rich pie, so we generally only have it on very special occasions, like on Thanksgiving and Christmas"~ Marilyn

1 stick butter
1/4 c. milk
1 Tbs. flour or cornmeal
1 tsp. vanilla
2 sq. unsweetened chocolate
2 eggs, beaten
1 1/4 c. sugar

Melt butter and chocolate. Add sugar, then eggs,milk,flour, and vanilla. Mix well and pour into unbaked pie shell. Bake at 325 for 40 minutes.

Kari's Favorite Sweet Potato Casserole

2008-10-28T14:47:00.004-04:00

I did not used to like sweet potatoes, but when I tried this recipe, it won me over! Sweet Potato Casserole is a staple at Thanksgiving in our family, and I like to use this recipe all throughout the fall and winter, too! ~ Kari

3/4 c. sugar
4 c. sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 c. melted margarine
2/3 c. canned milk
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. cloves
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
2 tsp. vanilla

Topping:
3/4 c. brown sugar
1 c. chopped pecans
1/2 c. flour
1/3 c. melted margarine

Mix first 7 ingredients. Place in 9x13 casserole dish. In another bowl, combing the remaining ingredients and mix well. Sprinkle on top of potatoes. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes. Serves 6 to 8.

Ambrosia Salad

2008-10-28T14:43:00.002-04:00

"This is our family's holiday fruit salad. It's a must for Thanksgiving and Christmas" ~ Marilyn

1 can crushed pineapple
1 can mandarin oranges
1 1/2 cups sour cream
2 cans fruit cocktail
1 cup coconut
1 (10oz.) pkg miniature marshmallows

Drain Fruit. Combine all ingredients and refrigerate until serving time.

Pumpkin Pancakes

2008-09-27T15:40:00.001-04:00

My daughter and I love this alternative to normal pancakes. Pumpkin is also very good for you. The maple flavor of the syrup is a perfect partner to the pumpkin taste! This recipe certainly proclaims "Fall"! ~Kari Boyer

1 c. flour
3/ 4 c. milk
1/2 c. canned pumpkin
1 T. sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. cloves
2 T. oil
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 egg

Combine all ingredients and mix 'em up!
Heat griddle or frying pan to meidum and grease with butter or cooking spray. Spoon 1/4 cup portions onto griddle or pan. Cook on one side until batter begins to 'bubble' slightly. When your spatula can slide easily under the pancake, it is time to flip. Don't wait too long!
Flip over and allow to cook for about a minute more, or until no longer gooey.

Top with syrup, the maple flavor is a perfect complement to the pumpkin!

Easy Crust Chicken Pie

2008-09-27T15:27:00.002-04:00

I love this recipe! It's great to warm up your family as the weather turns chilly this fall and winter! ~Kari Boyer

Filling
4-6 breasts chicken breasts, baked and chopped ***
3 chicken bouillon cubes
1 onion, chopped
2-3 stalks celery
4-6 potatoes peeled and diced
3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 (10oz.) pkg. frozen peas or 1 can
1 (10oz.) pkg. frozen corn
1 can cream of chicken soup (I like to use Campbell's Healthy Request- it is lower in fat and sodium)

Crust:
1 stick marg.
1 1/2 c. flour
1 tsp. salt
3 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 c. buttermilk (or milk)

-Cook veggies until tender in boiling water plus 3 chicken bouillon cubes.Drain veggies, reserving 1 1/4 cup of the "broth". Place prepared chicken in bottom of 9 x 13 baking dish, greased with cooking spray. Sprinkle with pepper. Place the drained veggies on top- sprinkle with salt.
Mix 1 1/4 reserved "broth" with 1 can of cream of chicken soup. Pour over veggies. Pour crust batter over all. Place baking dish on cookie sheet, as it sometimes bubbles over slightly.
Bake at 400 until lightly browned and done in the center.

** *When baking the chicken breasts, cut into thirds, then add to greased baking dish. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, basil, salt, pepper to taste. Add 1 or 2 bay leaves for flavor. Add about 1/4 cup water. Bake at 400 for 30-40 minutes, or until done. Allow to cool and then shred or chop.

Kevin's Cake

2008-09-25T16:18:00.002-04:00

This is my husband's favorite cake, and what he requests for every birthday. The recipe comes from his mom, who added the chocolate chips to her white cake recipe to create this favorite we enjoy today~ Kate Boyer Brown

2 1/4 c. flour
1 1/2 c. sugar
3 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 c. shortening
1 c. milk
2 eggs
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
1-2. c. chocolate chips, according to your taste

Mix dry ingredients; add shortening and 2/3 cup milk and vanilla; beat 2 minutes. Add the remaining milk and eggs. Stir in chips. Pour into 2 round 9"x1-1/2" pans. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes or until toothpick tests done.

Icing:
5 Tbsp. flour
1 c. milk
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. Crisco
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

Cook flour and milk together in saucepan, stirring constantly till very thick. Let cool; then add butter, Crisco, sugar and vanilla; beat until fluffy.

Party Potatoes

2008-08-21T13:29:00.003-04:00

They're rich and smooth and...who doesn't like mashed potatoes!

8-10 medium potatoes
1 8oz. pkg. cream cheese
1 small carton sour cream
1 T. butter
Paprika to taste
Salt and Pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese to taste

Boil peeled potatoes until tender. Beat cream cheese and sour cream together. Add hot potatoes (drained) and beat until smooth. Add butter, salt and pepper. Pour into a well-greased 2 quart casserole dish. Dot with butter and sprinkle paprika on top. Cover that with Parmesan cheese. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes. Serves 8-10

Raisin Zucchini Bread

2008-08-21T13:18:00.002-04:00

2 medium zucchini
2 cups sugar
1 cup oil
3 eggs, beaten
1 T. vanilla
3 c. flour
1 T. cinnamon
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. baking powder
1 cup raisins

Finely shred zucchini to measure 2 cups; set aside. Cream sugar and oil. Add eggs, zucchini, and vanilla; mix well.
Combine flour, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and baking powder- mix well. Add raisins to dry ingredients. Combine with zucchini mixture. Mix well.
Pour into 2 greased 9x5 in. loaf pans. Bake @ 350 for 1 hour or until tests done. Let stand 10 minutes. Turn out onto wire rack to cool.

Icy Fruit Cups

2008-08-21T12:51:00.003-04:00

We all love these refreshing fruit cups. I like to make a batch to keep in the freezer, so I can grab one as a quick and healthy snack or for breakfast. They are surprisingly filling! We have used them at parties, wedding receptions!

1 can frozen orange/pineapple juice concentrate
1 c. water
1/2 c. sugar
2 T. lemon juice
3 medium, firm bananas, sliced
1 16oz pkg. frozen strawberries (or use fresh and slice)
2 15 oz. can mandarin oranges, drained
1 large can (about 24oz) crushed pineapple

In large bowl, prepare juice according to package. Add water and sugar- stir until sugar is dissolved. Add other ingredients. Fill plastic cups 3/4 full. Cover and freeze. Take out of freezer about 15-20 minutes before serving, so they can become "slushy"
Makes approx. 12 9oz. cups.

Cheerios Treats

2008-08-21T12:39:00.002-04:00

A fun snack to make with your kids!

3 Tbsp. butter or margarine
1 (10-oz. pkg.) miniature marshmallows
1/2 c. peanut butter
5 c. Cheerios
1 c. M&Ms

Grease 9x13" pan. Melt butter in 3-quart saucepan on low heat. Add marshmallows and peanut butter; stir until marshmallows are melted and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat. Combine Cheerios and M&Ms; immediately add to peanut butter mixture. Mix lightly until well coated. Press mixture into prepared pan. Cool. Cut into squares. YIELD: 24 bars.
~Kate Boyer Brown

Homemade Play-Dough!

2008-07-28T18:56:00.006-04:00

2 tsp. Cream of Tarter
1 c. Water

1/2 tsp. Salt

Few drops of food coloring (optional)

3 Tbsp. Oil
1 cup flour

Mix and cook in a saucepan until mixture coagulates into a ball. Cool. Store in an airtight container.

One Hour Yeast Rolls

2008-07-25T13:36:00.004-04:00

This is a yummy roll recipe that I love to use. And it's so quick- just one hour!

2/3 cup boiling water
3 Tbs. margarine
2 Tbs. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1 pkg. yeast (2 tsp)
1 egg
2 c. flour ( I like to use 1c. white and 1c. wheat)

Boil water and melt margarine in it. Add sugar and salt. When slightly cool, add yeast and beaten egg. Beat in flour. Let rise in warm place for 30 minutes. Roll dough out in a circle on floured board. Cut 12 pie shaped wedges and roll into crescents. Let rise another 30 minutes. Bake at 400 for 12 minutes.
NOTE: Instead of rolling out the dough and forming crescents, I just knead and flour it slightly, until it's not so sticky, and then I just pull off some dough and roll into a ball. Place the balls side by side in a round 9-in baking pan. Then follow the rest of the directions as normal!

Chocolate Pudding Dessert

2008-07-25T13:00:00.006-04:00

This recipe is a favorite in the Boyer family. When people see it's for dessert, you can hear the cheers! It has such a great, smooth and cool texture- you're sure to love it!

Bottom Layer:
1 1/2 c. graham cracker crumbs
1/4 c. sugar
1/2 c. melted margarine

Press into bottom of 9x13 pan. chill 15minutes.

Middle Layer:
8 oz softened cream cheese
1/4 cup sugar
2 Tbs. milk
1 Large tub Cool whip, divided

Whip until smooth. Fold in 1 1/2 c. cool whip; spread over graham layer

Top Layer:
2 small packages instant chocolate pudding
3 1/2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups Cool whip

Prepare pudding using 3 1/2 cups milk. Spread this over the cream cheese layer. Spread Cool whip over pudding. Chill several hours. Refrigerate leftovers.

Japanese Chicken Salad

2008-07-24T07:33:00.003-04:00

Salad:
2 c. diced, cooked chicken (or you can use less, if you're a chronic penny-pincher, like me)
1 bag coleslaw mix (or use your own shredded cabbage)

2 oz. slivered almonds
1 pkg. ramen noodles, crumbled (I use chicken flavored)

Dressing:

1 pkg. seasoning (from ramen noodle package)
1/2 c. oil (I use canola)
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 Tbsp. sugar
1 tsp. salt
3 tsp. vinegar

Combine salad ingredients in bowl; marinate in combined dressing ingredients overnight. Delicious, easy, and refreshing on these hot summer days! (Even my 15-month-old loves this!)

Red, White and Blue Muffins

2008-06-27T14:23:00.000-04:00

Begin Independence Day with these festive and good-for-you muffins!

2 cups flour
1 cup wheat flour
4 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup oil
1 cup frozen blueberries
1 cup frozen raspberries

Stir flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Beat eggs, milk, and oil together. Add to the dry ingredients. Stir only enough to blend ingredients together. Fold in berries. Spoon batter into muffin tins. Bake at 375 for 25 minutes.
Should make 12-18 muffins

Peanut Butter M&M Cookies (With a patriotic twist)

2008-06-27T14:21:00.002-04:00

This is one of my very favorite cookie recipes. It could easily be adapted to a 4th of July recipe by using the red, white, blue m&ms that are in stores this time of year!

1/2 c. margarine
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. brown sugar
3/4 c. peanut butter
1 egg
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 1/4 c. flour (or use 3/4 c. white flour & 1/2 c. wheat)
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt
8 oz. chocolate chips or M&Ms

Cream together the margarine, sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter. Add egg and vanilla Mix well. Stir in flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly. Gently stir in the chocolate chips/M&Ms. Spoon onto cookie sheets. Bake at 350 for 8-10minutes or until lightly brown. Allow to sit for 1 minute before removing from pan.

This recipe can be found in Homemade With Love-treasured family recipes of Marilyn Boyer

Cookout Potato Packets

2008-06-27T14:20:00.001-04:00

So many people cook out on the 4th of July, so I thought I 'd share this yummy and different way to serve potatoes at a cookout.

For each "packet" you will need the following:

1 potato peeled and sliced into thin- medium long strips
Garlic Powder
Salt
Pepper
1 Tbs. margarine
2 Tbs. finely chopped onion
2 Tbs. finely chopped or shredded carrots

Place sliced potatoes onto a sheet of foil, sprayed with cooking spray. Sprinkle with garlic, salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with onion and carrots. Drop 1 Tbs. margarine onto the potatoes. Bring foil up on either side and fold down in the middle to seal shut. Seal the ends. Grill for approx. 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

"Shoney's" Hot Fudge Cake

2008-06-24T22:12:00.002-04:00

1 (18.25-oz.) pkg. devil's food cake mix

3 eggs

1 1/3 c. water

1/3 c. vegetable oil

1 half-gallon box vanilla ice cream (must be in a box)

1 (16 oz.) jar chocolate fudge sauce

1 can whipped cream

12 maraschino cherries

1. Mix the batter for the cake as instructed on the box of the cake mix by combining cake mix, eggs, water and oil in a large mixing bowl.

2. Measure only 4 cups of the batter into a well-greased 13"x9" baking pan. Discard remaining batter, or make into cupcakes.

3. Bake cake according to box directions. Allow to cool completely.

4. When the cake has cooled, carefully remove from pan and place rightside up onto a sheet of waxed paper. With a long, serrated knife, slice horizontally through the middle of the cake, and carefully remove the top.

5. Pick up waxed paper with cake bottom still on it, and place back into the baking pan.

6. Take ice cream from freezer and, working quickly, tear the box open so that you can slice it like bread.

7. Make 6 3/4"-inch slices and arrange them on the cake bottom in the pan. Cover the entire surface of the cake with ice cream slices, cutting 2 of the slices in half to make it fit if necessary.

8. Carefully place the top half of the cake onto the ice cream layer. You now have ice cream sandwiched between the two halves of your cake. Cover the whole pan with plastic wrap and place in freezer until serving (will keep for weeks if tightly covered).

9. Slice cake into 12 servings. Leave at room temperature for 5 minutes to soften a bit.

10. Heat up the fudge sauce in microwave or in a jar immersed in saucepan of water over medium/low heat.

11. Pour fudge sauce over cake slices and to each add a mountain of whipped cream.

12. Top off each cake with a cherry stuck into the center of the whipped cream.

Serves 12.

Ice Cream Dessert

2008-05-23T18:02:00.000-04:00

This is a yummy way to cool down in the summer! Bet you can't eat just one piece!

1 package Oreos
1/3 c. melted marg.
1/2 gallon vanilla ice cream (or ice cream of your choice)

sauce:
1 square unsweetened chocolate
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1/4 cup marg.
2/3 cup sugar
pinch of salt

Allow ice cream to sit out to soften;

Meanwhile,
Crush oreos (place in ziploc bag and crush with a rolling pin) to fine crumbs.
Press in bottom of 9x13 pan;
Pour melted margarine over the oreos

Gently press ice cream down over oreo mixture

Put back in freezer and allow to firm up for several hours or over night

After ice cream has hardened again, top with chocolate sauce:

In a sauce pan, combine chocolate square, evaporated milk, butter, sugar and pinch of salt.
Boil for 3 minutes, stirring constantly
Allow to cool slightly (about 5 minutes)
Drizzle over ice cream

Allow ice cream several hours to harden again.
Enjoy!!

You can find this delicious recipe and many more recipes from our family in our cookbook- Homemade with Love- $9.00

Summer Fruit Medley

2008-05-23T16:52:00.000-04:00

This is one of our family's very favorite fruit dishes! The lime juice adds just a little extra 'punch' to the flavors of the fruit! We serve it at almost all of our get-togethers in the summer!

1 large watermelon
1 pineapple
1 large Cantaloupe
Fresh Kiwi
Fresh Strawberries
Fresh Grapes

You can use any or all of these fruits to make up a delicious medley of flavors. Cut into chunks. Place in a large bowl.

Mix together in a small bowl:

2 cups water
2 cups lime juice
1 cup sugar

Stir until sugar is dissolved.
Pour over fruit.
Mix fruit gently.

Chill and keep stored in refrigerator.