PARTY FOOD

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ShareFunshine #CollectiveBias

With the kids nearly out of school it’s time to start thinking of some great ways to celebrate summer. Putting together an ice cream float bar makes for an really fun summer party idea. You can sure wow your crowd with this Ultimate Ice Cream Float. It’s a super easy summer treat that will be the dessert of the summer.

To put together your ice cream float bar, here are some ingredients you will need. We grabbed Dr Pepper® Cherry along with some other great added goodies like M&M’s® Plain, M&M’s® Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches, SNICKERS® Ice Cream Bars & Life Savers® Hard Candy Variety. We also added sprinkles, chocolate syrup, vanilla ice cream & cherries.

You can pick up these items at Walmart – like I did.

To make your ultimate float – start by taking the SNICKERS® Ice Cream Bars & cutting them into pieces. Then place a couple of the pieces at the bottom of your glass. Then add a scoop of ice cream followed by a couple more pieces of ice cream bar. Then the final scoops of ice cream & top with the last pieces of the ice cream bar. Next pour in your Dr Pepper® Cherry to fill. Then add sprinkles, chocolate syrup, M&M’s® & cherry. YUM!!

Be sure to check out this Share a Little Funshine Sweepstakes!!!

Be sure to click over to receive instant savings on M&M’s®, SNICKERS® Ice Cream Bars, Dr Pepper® Cherry, Skittles®, Pedigree Dentastix®!

We also topped our other floats with M&M’s® Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches & Life Savers® Hard Candy.

Print Recipe

Ultimate Ice Cream Float

Ingredients

1 bottle Dr Pepper® Cherry
M&M's® Plain
M&M's® Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches
SNICKERS® Ice Cream Bars
Life Savers® Hard Candy Variety
sprinkles
chocolate syrup
vanilla ice cream
cherries

Instructions

Take the SNICKERS® Ice Cream Bars & cut them into pieces
Place a couple of the pieces at the bottom of your glass
Add a scoop of ice cream followed by a couple more pieces of ice cream bar
Then the final scoops of ice cream & top with the last pieces of the ice cream bar
Next pour in your Dr Pepper® Cherry to fill
Then add sprinkles, chocolate syrup, M&M's® & cherry

I’d love to hear your plans for making this summer super fun!

Looking for more great summer treats?

Double Berry Cheesecake Frozen Yogurt

White Chocolate M&M Popcorn

Bubble Gum Frozen Yogurt

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Reese’s Oreo Popcorn

Rocky Road Krispies Treats

Not a lot of time? Do you like no-bake desserts? Yeah – me too. This Reese’s Oreo popcorn is a simple popcorn recipe idea that is packed full of YUMMY goodness. Reese’s Oreo cookies mixed in buttery salted popcorn & covered with white chocolate. Easy dessert recipes don’t get any better this time of year.

When the weather is nice the last thing I want to do is be in the kitchen all day. But I certainly don’t want to compromise the YUM factor either. This is one of our family’s favorite treats through the warm months, Reese’s Oreo Popcorn. Reese’s & Oreo coming together is already a match made in heaven. But I definitely wanted to take it a step further & make a munchy snack for outdoor movie nights. This is the PERFECT treat for that.

I love making this for a large crowd. Whether you are making a little or a lot – this comes together so quickly so it’s easy to feed the masses. It’s great when we host large BBQ’s or block parties. You could bring it to you next potluck too. Once that weather gets gorgeous & the sun is shining it seems we are always going or hosting some sort of gathering & this definitely takes the stress out of the prep that goes into that. Everyone always comes back for more & I end my day with an empty bowl. Can’t beat that.

Print Recipe

Reese’s Oreo Popcorn

Ingredients

8-9 cups popcorn
1-1/2 cups white chocolate chips
15 Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Oreo's - crushed
1 cup Mini Oreo's - Reese's Peanut Butter Cup flavor
4 cups mini marshmallows

Instructions

Pop your popcorn & transfer to a very large mixing bowl
In a double boiler add your white chocolate chips & heat over medium/low until melted & smooth
*Note - if you don't have a double boiler, you can fill a small saucepan half full with water &
Then rest a medium sized glass bowl on top to melt your chocolate in.
Once your chocolate is melted pour evenly over your popcorn & start folding to mix throughout
Once the popcorn is mostly coated add in all your other ingredients & mix well
Store at room temperature in a breathable container. I like to use a paper sack so that the popcorn & cookies stays crisp
Enjoy!!

Looking for more easy treat ideas? Here are some more of our favorites!

Mocha Cream Pie

Twinkies Banana Cream Pie

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Watermelon Salsa

By Kleinworth & Co 7 Comments

This Watermelon Salsa recipe is a refreshing twist on the traditional homemade salsa. Watermelon & lime blending with peppers makes for a great appetizer. Happy Cinco de Mayo!!

I love a good salsa. I find as I get older I crave certain things more than ever. One is salsa & chips. I’m usually a girl that can’t get enough sweets. But over the last couple months it’s been Mexican food- specifically carnitas & salsa. Obsessed is a good word to describe it. I could (& would if the family was on board) eat it every single day! But for our Cinco de Mayo munching tonight I decided to mix things up a bit & make this Watermelon Salsa recipe. It blends the sweet of the watermelon & the spice of the peppers for the perfect pre-dinner snack. I couldn’t get enough – good thing I made a whole bunch for tonight!

Print Recipe

Watermelon Salsa

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups watermelon diced into small cubes
2 sweet peppers halved & sliced
3-4 mint leaves- chopped
1-1/2 tsp coarse sea salt
2 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl & toss to combine
Cover & chill for at least 60-90 minutes for flavors to blend before serving

Want to see more of what’s on our Cinco de Mayo menu tonight?

Salsa Pulled Pork Tacos

Restaurant Style Refried Beans

Coco Piña Colada

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

SNICKERS® Peanut Butter Snack Mix

Grab n' Go Snack Packs

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #WhenImHungry #CollectiveBias

I work long hours here. Between keeping the daily household stuff going & punching in 80+ hours a week in the studio AND homeschooling the kids – it’s easy to get so wrapped up in what I’m doing that I forget to break for food. It happens all the time. The hubs will come home & I’ll mention that I’m hungry for dinner. He’ll ask what I’ve eaten for the day & when I think about it – it turns out nothing but my coffee way back at 5 am. That’s not good because not only is it bad for me to go without food for that long but I really morph into some other person when it gets to that point. So I came up with this easy SNICKERS® Peanut Butter Snack Mix that I can keep on my desk to encourage me to at least nibble through the day.

I picked up SNICKERS® Peanut Butter Squares at Walmart to add to my mix.

I like having peanut butter because it gives me the protein that I need to stay satisfied.

I also picked up SNICKERS® Almond because it’s a long time favorite of mine. You could use either in this recipe.

These definitely help keep me on a more even keel.

When I’m out of sorts I don’t work well & I definitely get more done when I’m feeling great.

Enter the SNICKERS® “Who are you when you’re hungry?” contest by uploading a personal photo or video from your Computer, Facebook, Instagram or use the SNICKERS® Meme Generator to create something new! Voting begins at Noon on 5/11/15 and ends at 11:59:59AM ET on 7/15/15.

See more great SNICKERS® recipes and fun stories on the SNICKERS® social hub

For those times when I’m stuck in the waiting room of say the doctors office – for sometimes nearly 2 hours beyond our appointment time… I keep a couple single bars in my purse. It really helps when we are out & need to eat but can’t get to a place to pick something up. I’m definitely the hero of the day when I can pull one of these out & bye bye hunger.

I picked up those single wrapped SNICKERS® Peanut Butter & SNICKERS® Almond in the checkout line.

Print Recipe

SNICKERS® Peanut Butter Snack Mix

Ingredients

1 bag SNICKERS® Peanut Butter Squares - each unwrapped
4 cups salted popcorn - popped
2 cups peanut butter filled pretzels

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in large bowl & toss to mix
Keep in an airtight container & portion out as desired

Who are you when you’re hungry??

Looking for more easy snack recipes?

Peperoncini & Salami Appetizer

Salsa Recipe by Place Of My Taste

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Slow Cooker Snack Mix

By Kleinworth & Co 11 Comments

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #MVCheezIt #CollectiveBias

Things are heating up in college basketball. Games are plentiful & people are excited! Two teams just over the border here are considered as close to our home teams as possible & they are both in the running still. Really exciting to watch them go so far & we are watching basketball all the time. You know what that means – snacks!! So of course I made some of my favorite Slow Cooker Snack Mix to much on along with all our other goodies. I love to put on a nice big spread for game time & making snack mix in the slow cooker is the easiest thing to do. I mixed it up this time & made it extra cheesy!!!

I was already in Target picking up a regular box of Cheez-It white cheddar when I saw the new Cheez-It Grooves. That’s when I had my idea to change up my usual snack mix & make it all about Cheez-Its.

Then…..I found the Cheez-It Crunch’d in another aisle & I knew this was going to be one epic mix.

I was totally stoked for game time & couldn’t wait to make it.

It’s really just as simple as tossing all the yummy ingredients in the cooker.

Then drizzle the flavored sauce over everything & give it a good stir.

Let it cook for a couple hours while you prep your other snacks & you are good to go.

I’m telling you – this is packed full of all your favorite cheesy Cheez-It flavor & you will never want to make any other mix.

It’s SO GOOD – it didn’t last through the game.

Cheez-Its are on sale for 3/$8 at Target.

Shoppers can use Target’s Cartwheel app to save an additional 35% off of this sale price when they buy 3 varieties of Cheez-Its.

Don’t miss the Most Valuable Cheese Contest that is taking place from Feb – April 2015.

Users can vote on their favorite flavors/varieties from six popular Cheez-It flavors and play games for a chance to win $10,000.

What is your favorite Cheez-It flavor?

Print Recipe

Slow Cooker Snack Mix

Ingredients

2 cups bagel chips
2 cups peanut butter stuffed pretzels
2 cups flat bread crisps
2 cups white cheddar Cheez-Its
2 cups Cheez-Its Crunch'd - cheddar cheese
2 cups Cheez-Its Grooves - Zesty Cheddar Ranch
1/2 cup 1 stick butter - melted & hot
1 tbsp season salt
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp granulated garlic

Instructions

Combine the pretzels, bagel chips, flat bread crisps, & all varieties of Cheez-Its in your slow cooker
In a small bowl combine melted butter & seasonings - whisk until combined
Add Worcestershire sauce & whisk
Drizzle evenly over mix & stir to evenly coat
Lay a paper towel over the top of your cooker & add the lid on top of that (this will keep it crunchy)
Cook on low 2 total hours - stir well every 30-40 minutes to keep it all from burning
Once done cooking spread out on large baking sheet to cool completely
Once completely cooled - store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

This recipe can be adapted to use any crackers or crunchy snacks you desire.

*Make it fast - use the air fryer.

Just season as desired and cook at 325 for 10-12 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Note - you may need to reduce the ingredients by 50-75% to accommodate the size of your air fryer. Don't fill it too full.

Looking for more great game time recipes?

Soft Pretzel Bites

Parmesan Tortilla Chips

Prosciutto & French Onion Tea Sandwiches

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Tie Dyed Easter Eggs

By Kleinworth & Co Leave a Comment

Using a swirl of vibrant food colors and a simple technique, transform your eggs into a groovy experience and make Tie Dyed Easter Eggs!

Springtime is all about embracing color, and what better way to do that than with Tie Dyed Easter Eggs? What’s that you say? You’ve never tie dyed eggs before? Well, you’re in for a treat!

This Easter, step away from the traditional egg dyeing kits and dive into a world of vivid, swirling colors with an easy and fun method that will have everyone marveling at your Easter basket.

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Carnitas Queso

Parmesan Tortilla Chips

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of RO*TEL & VELVEETA . All opinions are 100% mine.

I know I have mentioned on more than occasion how much I’m obsessed with carnitas. If you know me on a more personal level then you really know how deep that love for carnitas is. Now add to that some delicious queso. I love queso. I could live on it pretty much all the time. Which is great because we make it for nearly every homegating event. It’s simple, takes only a couple ingredients & EVERYONE loves it. So it’s so easy to make it the “go-to” snack. Then I had the AMAZING idea to add a little bit of my leftover carnitas from my tacos to my queso & Carnitas Queso was born. It was a match made in heaven if I do say so myself. Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas?

Just these two ingredients & some of my favorite carnitas makes the most INCREDIBLE game day snack EVER!

The combination of RO*TEL and VELVEETA make a Queso dip that is so good it will be the star of your next tailgating party. Zesty, creamy, yummy, and easy – Queso made with RO*TEL and VELVEETA is a real crowd pleaser.

Queso is a quick, easy and zesty recipe with just two ingredients, VELVEETA and RO*TEL.

The recipe is the perfect addition to any occasion’s entertainment spread.

The family & I joke that if they want to see me during the game – then they need to head on over to the snack bar. That’s where I’ll be – which is why I set up our game time spread facing the media room. That way I can snack without missing a moment of the game.

This queso is great not just with chips & pretzels. I like to cut up some french bread & eat it like a fondue too.

You really can’t go wrong. It’s the perfect game day snack.

Be sure to check out the Queso For All page for more inspiration on creating the simple RO*TEL and VELVEETA Queso.

So many ideas to spice up your next tailgate or party.

Be inspired and get the latest ideas by following Ro*Tel Facebook and Velveeta Facebook pages too.

Print Recipe

Carnitas Queso

Ingredients

1 10 ounce can RO*TEL Original- undrained
1 16 ounce package VELVEETA - diced into cubes
1 cup Crock Pot Carnitas with a little juices from cooking about 1/8 cup

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in medium saucepan
Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until cheese is melted - stirring frequently
Serve warm with homemade parmesan tortilla chips , bread or pretzels.

So what will I be making to dip in my Carnitas Queso?

You know it’s great topped on a Gourmet Hot Dog

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Pages: 1 2

Parmesan Tortilla Chips

By Kleinworth & Co 7 Comments

You may have noticed – I’m sort of in party food mode around here. It’s probably my favorite thing to make – other than treats of course. But with the playoffs happening & the big game right around the corner- it’s on my mind all the time. I find myself waking at 2am & having to get up to write down ideas that pop into my head. I love love love appetizers & snacks. One of my all time favorites that we have been making for at least the last 15 years are these Parmesan Tortilla Chips.

Making homemade tortilla chips is super simple & in my opinion- WAY better than anything you can buy in a bag. So when it comes to making homemade nachos or having something to dip into our favorite taco dip – these are my go-to thing. We like to use sea salt & popcorn salt & then parmesan cheese. I know it sounds strange. But many years ago we used to visit this little hole in the wall taco stand. They had the best food there & they added parmesan to their tortillas. So not only do we do that with our homemade taco shells – but with these chips too. SO GOOD!

Print Recipe

Parmesan Tortilla Chips ~ Game Day Snacks

Ingredients

10-20 corn tortillas
Peanut Oil
Powder Parmesan cheese
Popcorn Salt

Instructions

Fill stock pot with peanut oil about 1 inch deep
Cut tortillas into triangles or strips
Heat oil on medium high
When oil is ready drop a handful of triangles in & let brown for 45 seconds + depending on how crunchy you like them
Using a metal strainer or spoon- scoop out into bowl lined with paper towels
Immediately sprinkle with popcorn salt & Parmesan cheese.
Shake & toss to coat more evenly.
Enjoy! Will keep for about 24 hours in an airtight container.

Today I’m also participating in this Tailgate Party Hop!

Check out all these other amazing tailgating recipes!

Want to see more of the recipes we like to make for game day?

Grilled & Ready Kabobs

Chocolate Chip Cookie Cup Sundae

Fried Hot Dog Sliders

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Fry Sauce

By Kleinworth & Co 9 Comments

Fry Sauce is a simple dipping sauce blending the tangy flavors of ketchup and mayo. Commonly found in Utah, southern Idaho & rural Oregon- it’s a favorite!

It’s no secret that we love our Game Time Grub in this house. Homegating is a weekly occurrence & it almost always includes Fry Sauce.

Now- being that I grew up in So Cal – fry sauce wasn’t something that I grew up with. If it didn’t come from In & Out Burger – I didn’t really know it existed.

Then we moved here to North Idaho & we had a little place specific to the North West literally smell distance from our little rental at the time. The hubs picked up burgers, several tubs of fries & this stuff called fry sauce to feed our hungry crew while we unloaded the moving truck.

I reluctantly tried some- I’m just like that about new things. We all were absolutely amazed & it has become my “can’t live without” condiment. I used to be able to run on over & pick up a few tubs for our homegating events because it was literally so close to our house.

But now that we have bought this house & moved to a new town – the closest location is quite a little jaunt.

Fry Sauce Recipe

So – being that I love to find ways to make it myself, I decided to try my hand at it. 5 recipes later – THIS IS THE ONE! Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas?

I love it even more than the original. I have to admit- I add this stuff to everything- it’s not just for fries. It was great on these onion rings. I also love it on chicken tenders, hash browns, home fries, burgers, hot dogs & so much more.

homemade fry sauce

If you have never had fry sauce before- you HAVE TO give it a try. I think there is something similar in the South called comeback sauce. I can see why it’s called that. It’s definitely a regional thing.

I know that Utah is known for it. The family was happy about that during our trip to SLC last April. They didn’t have to go without their favorite dipping sauce while we traveled.

Here are some commonly asked questions

Can this be frozen?

Because of the mayo this won’t freeze well. But the portion that this makes is small enough that you could reasonably get through all of it within the 7 days that it should stay good for in the fridge. You can always cut the recipe in half if needed instead.

Can this recipe be doubled?

You can, and we do it often. In fact, a double or triple amount is perfect for a large family.

What is the best way to store leftover fry sauce?

Just keep it refrigerated for up to 7 days. As long as you don’t let it sit out at room temperature for too long, this should keep well when chilled.

how to make fry sauce

Ingredients for Fry Sauce

mayonnaise
ketchup
apple cider vinegar
granulated garlic
salt
Pappy’s Choice Seasoning
onion powder

What should I dip in fry sauce?

We love this fry sauce so much that we like to use it on just about everything. Here is a list of our favorites

french fries
sweet potato fries
onion rings
homefries
hashbrowns
hamburgers
hot dogs

HOW DO YOU MAKE FRY SAUCE?

Combine the mayo, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, granulated garlic, salt, Pappy’s, and onion powder in a small bowl & whisk to combine.
Refrigerate to set for at least 1 hour prior to serving.
Use for dipping french fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, home fries, hashbrowns, or added to hamburgers or hot dogs.

If you love this Easy Fry Sauce recipe, you’re going to love these other recipes too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

Veggie Dip Recipe

This Veggie Dip Recipe is simple to make with just 4 ingredients & 5 min of prep. Great appetizer or snack for game day, holidays & parties!

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip

Instant Pot Buffalo Chicken Dip is a quick and easy appetizer that is perfect for snacking, holidays, game day, or any fun gathering!

Buckaroo BBQ Dipping Sauce

Buckaroo BBQ Dipping Sauce is an easy & delicious dipping sauce for chicken but also pairs well with corn dogs & more.

Best Burger Sauce on a Double Caramelized Onion Burger

Best Burger Sauce on a Double Caramelized Onion Burger is the best thing you’ll ever eat. Delicious over the top juicy burger loaded with all the good stuff.

Easy Bacon Guacamole

Easy Bacon Guacamole is the perfect snack to serve at all your big game day events. It’s loaded with crispy, salty bacon & takes a few minutes to make.

Simple Pepper Jelly – Stovetop or Pressure Cooker

Make your own Simple Pepper Jelly. It’s so delicious & only takes a handful of ingredients and a few minutes to make. Add to a cracker and cream cheese.

Crack Dip Recipe

Amazingly delicious Crack Dip Recipe, made with bacon crumbles, cheddar cheese & ranch seasoning is the perfect appetizer for parties!

Best 4-Ingredient Tartar Sauce Recipe

This 4-Ingredient Tartar Sauce Recipe requires only a handful of ingredients but it's packed with so much flavor. Creamy mayonnaise is blended with bright lemon juice and crunchy pickles that makes for an amazing combination of flavors.

Print Recipe

Fry Sauce

Fry Sauce is a simple dipping sauce blending the tangy flavors of ketchup and mayo. Commonly found in Utah, southern Idaho & rural Oregon- it’s a favorite!

Prep Time3

Course: Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: American

Keyword: dip, fry, sauce

Servings: tbsp

Ingredients

⅓ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
½ tsp apple cider vinegar
⅛ tsp granulated garlic
⅛ tsp salt
⅛ tsp Pappy’s Choice Seasoning
⅛ tsp onion powder

Instructions

Combine the mayo, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, granulated garlic, salt, Pappy's and onion powder in small bowl & whisk to combine.
Refrigerate to set for at least 1 hour prior to serving.
Use for dipping french fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, home fries, hashbrowns, or added to hamburgers or hot dogs.

Peperoncini & Salami Appetizer

Deep Fried Tortellini

Hello there my friends! Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas? Are you getting excited for the big game? We love this time of year – even if our team isn’t in the playoffs. We love football & we celebrate it each weekend with a spread of appetizers. Homegating is our thing & coming up with tasty new snacks is part of the fun. We like to let the kids help come up with these new snack ideas, which usually means they are centered around their favorite foods. For instance, this Peperoncini & Salami Appetizer is on top of their must make list.

You see – my son REALLY loves peperoncinis. When he was about a year old he would grab them out of the salad bowl when we would dine out & just munch on them whole. We would always wait for the heat to get to him & expected him to cry. But he never did – he just wanted more. Needless to say – all these years later & they are still a favorite snack of his. He will add them to just about anything – which is why he loves this appetizer so much.

Now my younger daughter – she loves salami. She loves it so much that she asked for her very own that she didn’t have to share. Yep – right on her Christmas list – a salami. I know- I thought it was strange too. She just had to write it on the grocery list. But she wanted her own. So when it comes to this snack – it’s hard to make enough for everyone. The kids just can’t get enough.

Print Recipe

Peperoncini & Salami Appetizer

Author: Gina Kleinworth

Ingredients

Butter Crackers
Goat Cheese about 8 ounces
1 tbsp chives
Summer Sausage/ Salami - cut into chunks
peperoncini slices

Instructions

Lay out your crackers on serving tray
In a small bowl combine goat cheese & chives & fold together with a fork until chives are mixed throughout
Spread a little of your goat cheese mixture on each cracker
Top with a piece of salami
Then top with a slice of peperoncini
Enjoy

Looking for more great party recipes?

Here are some SUPER YUMMY recipes we will be making on game day.

Anchovies & Olive Appetizer

Gourmet Hot Dogs

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Anchovies & Olive Appetizer {Party Favorites}

By Kleinworth & Co 10 Comments

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #WaysToWow #CollectiveBias

Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas? Anchovy lovers – have I created the appetizer for you! My family LOVES anchovies. Actually the word LOVE (in all caps) doesn’t even quite describe just how they feel about them. The hubs can’t seem to buy enough- the kids can’t get enough. They enjoy them on pizza & then they really love to have some on a cracker as a snack. Well since we are inching ever so close to New Year’s, I promised I would create a new appetizer for them using anchovies & create some new party favorites. This Anchovies & Olive Appetizer did not last long with my gaggle of taste testers. They were fighting over them & they can’t wait for our New Year’s celebration when I will make more.

I picked up some Town House Crackers at Target. (They were actually located in 2 different places in the store) I literally ran in there just for the crackers since we were in the area. I ended up walking out carrying 7 bags & spending over $100. Honestly – I’m shocked it wasn’t double that. That store is dangerous- I want everything. But anyhow- back to the recipe.

These are really simple to make.

Start with Town House crackers, spread on a little chive & onion cream cheese, top with anchovies & 1 large green olive.

These are our favorite crackers – we use them for all our appetizers. Definitely a party favorite.

Literally – my entire family LOVES these little snacks.

I know what we will be making for every party & homegating event in the future.

So tell me about your favorite party appetizer this time of year!

Print Recipe

Anchovie & Olive Appetizer {Party Favorites}

Ingredients

1 box crackers
1 small container chive & onion cream cheese
1-2 cans anchovies
1 jar green olives

Instructions

Lay out desired number of crackers
Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each cracker
Top with anchovies & then olives
Serve immediately

Want more appetizer ideas?

Prosciutto & French Onion Tea Sandwiches

Sweet Garlic Avocado Dip

Easy Garlic Bruschetta

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Mocktail “Champagne” Shots w/Canada Dry

By Kleinworth & Co 4 Comments

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #MingleNMix #CollectiveBias

We are inching closer & closer to the end of the year!!! Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas? I can’t believe just how quickly this year has gone by AND how much we were able to cram into it too. So I know that Christmas is just a few days away – which really means that my mind has already shifted to New Year’s & all it’s fun. Usually the kids stay up to watch the east coast celebrations & then they head to bed. Funny enough the hubs & I usually aren’t far behind because he’s always on call. Since he is on call – we keep our celebrations filled with things like goodies & mocktails. He could get called out on a moment’s notice – so he’s got to stay ready. I try to come up with fun twists on our holiday favorites to keep the excitement up for everyone. It’s important to make it special when he has to work on holidays. This year I decided that some fun Mocktail “Champagne” Shots w/ Canada Dry would be GREAT!

So typically you would add a little alcohol to your gelatin mix to create your “shots”. But since I was going for a mocktail version – I used Canada Dry Ginger Ale® instead. I picked it up at Walmart – my go-to place when picking up all my party needs.

You see – just 4 simple ingredients needed to create this super fun party treat.

(the different colored sprinkles count as one & the water isn’t pictured)

I’m so in love with this pretty color!

These are going to be SO MUCH FUN at our little low key party this year.

It makes me wish we were hosting some friends & family to share them with.

Print Recipe

Mocktail Jello Shots

Ingredients

4 envelopes unflavored gelatin
1 cup cold ginger ale
3 cups ginger ale - heated to boiling
2 tbsp sugar
sprinkles of choice

Instructions

Line 8x8 pan with foil (for easy removal later)
Pour 1 cup cold ginger ale into large bowl
Sprinkle gelatin over the top & let sit while you boil the remaining ginger ale
Once remaining ginger ale is boiling - carefully pour over cold mixture - stir until dissolved
Add sugar - stir until dissolved
Carefully pour into prepared pan
Place in refrigerator for a minimum of 3 hours - I like to let sit overnight
Remove from pan & cut into squares
Add desired sprinkles

You can visit Canada Dry Ginger Ale® or 7UP® or check out Walmart to find a store near you to pick some up.

Want more great party recipe ideas?

Deep Fried Tortellini

Captain Crunch Bourbon Balls

Champagne Punch

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Peppermint Thin Cake

By Kleinworth & Co 6 Comments

It’s been a really long time since I made a cake. I have been craving cake. Growing up in a house with a baker – cake was an almost everyday thing. So going so very long without it had me sort of going through a funk. One that only a good piece of chocolate cake could fix. But since we have been working so hard at being dedicated to the gym – even during this time of year, I wanted a lightened up version. I created this Peppermint Thin Cake which gives me everything I have been craving – but I don’t have to feel so guilty about having it during the week. Plus it’s all holiday inspired – which makes it feel extra special.

It’s just enough cake to cure the craving – at least for now.

Adding whipped topping instead of frosting helps keep it a little healthier too. You could omit all these toppings & just do a little confectioners sugar right before serving if you like. That would be so pretty too!

Print Recipe

Peppermint Thin Cake

Ingredients

3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water
1 tbsp homemade kahlua
3 ounces bittersweet chocolate - chopped
2 egg yolks
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp baking powder
5 egg whites
8 ounces whipped topping -semi thawed
Peppermint pieces for topping

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Lightly coat 9" spring form pan with cooking spray & set aside
In medium saucepan - combine water, sugar & homemade kahlua
Heat over medium until sugar has dissolved & mixture almost boils.
Add chocolate & stir until melted - remove from heat - set aside.
Place the 2 egg yolks in small bowl (reserve your whites for later)
Gradually add your chocolate mixture to your egg yolks being careful to not scramble them
Once combined - add vanilla - stir & set aside.
In a medium bowl - combine cocoa powder, flour & baking powder
Add in chocolate/egg mixture & whisk until smooth. Set aside
In mixer bowl with whip attachment - add your reserved egg whites & additional 3 egg whites
Whip on medium-high until stiff peaks form
Take a small amount & whisk into chocolate mixture to lighten
Then fold in the rest carefully as to not deflate the egg whites
Transfer to prepared pan
Bake 25-30 minutes or until top springs back when lightly touched
Cool in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes
Transfer to freezer to continue cooling
Once cooled - spread your semi-thawed whipped topping over the top
Sprinkle your peppermint pieces to decorate
Return to freezer until time to serve to keep whipped topping from completely melting.

Want more cake ideas?

Blackberry White Chocolate Buckle

Red Velvet BlackBerry Crash Cake

Chocolate Sweet Potato Cake

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Sour Pom-Cider {Cocktail & Mocktail}

By Kleinworth & Co 1 Comment

Hello my dear friends!!! Are you looking for a great fall beverage to serve your guests this Thanksgiving?? Have I got the drink for you!! Bourbon is all the rage right now – which is why I dedicated an entire week to bourbon recipes a while back. This Sour Pom-Cider {Cocktail & Mocktail} has that great fall cider flavor but it’s mixed with pomegranate liquor & of course bourbon. WIN WIN!! It’s easy to make & your guests will LOVE it! Oh & I included a non-alcoholic version too. So really you can’t go wrong. This bourbon drink will keep everyone happy during your holiday festivities.

To get the recipe – head on over to see my friend Kelly at Live Laugh Rowe! I’m sharing the details on this tasty bevie over at her place today while she’s touring Rome!! I can’t wait to hear all about her adventures when she returns. I have been following her on Instagram – you should too. She always has something amazing to share – including all her fun she’s having on her trip.

Want more great beverage ideas?

Pink Peppermint Russian

Cran-Apple Bourbon Punch

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Nutella Kahlua Truffles

By Kleinworth & Co 9 Comments

Today I have a very special blog hop to share with you all. I have joined up with some of my favorite blogging friends to help you get ready for your Thanksgiving feast with these Nutella Kahlua Truffles. I mean- Here we are – 12 days into November.

Are you feeling even the slightest bit ready for Thanksgiving? We actually don’t get together with family – in fact since my mother-in-law passed several years ago & my brother was stationed in Japan a couple years ago- we have been doing Thanksgiving with just he 5 of us.

truffles with kahlua

I actually like it – it’s low key, no pressure. Sometimes we actually make the dinner on the weekend before so we can spend Thanksgiving just eating football snacks, my favorite leftover sandwich & enjoying the game. It’s my preferred way to spend the holiday because then I’m not doing dishes all day.

But I do still plan a menu & try to come up with some new family favorites to enjoy. One goodie that I whipped up the other day will be making another appearance whenever we do make our Thanksgiving dinner this year – Nutella Kahlua Truffles. The hubs was OFF THE CHARTS in love with these, which made me pretty happy as he’s not a huge chocolate lover.

kahlua recipes

I like to make a double batch & then split it in half. One has kahlua & cocoa powder. Then I do the other half without kahlua & add fun sprinkles for the kids. But these – with kahlua, are all for the hubs & I to enjoy. Have a couple while cooking – then have a couple more with some champagne when we curl up on the couch for some zone-out time after the kids go to bed. It’s the perfect little evening treat after a long holiday.

Other Delicious No-Bake Desserts

Little Debbie Christmas Tree Dip

Keto Fudge

No-Bake Peppermint Oreo Bars

No-Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Rum Balls

Print Recipe

Nutella Kahlua Truffles

Easy chocolate truffles made with Nutella and spiked with Kahlua.

Prep Time20

Chill2

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American, French

Keyword: chocolate

Servings:

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese- softened
2 cups confectioners sugar
1½ cups Nutella
1 -2 tsp homemade kahlua
⅓ cup cocoa powder for rolling
or sprinkles of desired

Instructions

Blend the cream cheese & confectioners sugar together in a mixer until smooth.
Add Nutella. Stir.
If separating some for kids - remove a portion of the mixture & place in a small bowl - cover & freeze.
With the remaining mixture - beat in the Kahlua until creamy and smooth.
Cover & freeze 1-2 hours.
Once the mixture is quite firm - scoop out portions with a melon baller & roll into balls between your hands.
Roll in the cocoa powder or another coating of choice.
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet & return to the freezer to firm again.
Store in the freezer until ready to serve.

I mentioned above that I have joined up with some of my best bloggy friends today to not only share this recipe, but to give you an entire meal’s worth of recipe ideas for this Thanksgiving Recipe Blog Hop.

While I am posting a dessert today (along with many other great dessert ideas being shared) – there are some INCREDIBLE recipes for main & side dishes too. Just look at all of these!!! Your menu planning is now complete!

Main Dishes

Cranberry Stuffed Turkey | Thoughts from Alice

Maple – Glazed Turkey with Bacon and Sage | Five Heart Home

Turkey Tetrazzini w/ Mushrooms and Kale | The Fountain Ave Kitchen

Orange Balsamic Glazed Ham | Cherished Bliss

Turkey Soup | Carmel Moments

Vegetables

Cauliflower Gratin | Love Grows Wild Creamy Cheese Corn Casserole | Five Heart Home Cranberry Citrus Salad with Goat Cheese and Pecans | Delightful E Made Sautéed French Green Beans | Cherished Bliss

Potatoes

Potatoes Au Gratin | Yummy Healthy Eats Mashed Sweet Potatoes | Live Laugh Rowe Honey-Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potatoes | Cooking with Ruthie Cheesy Garlic & Herb Mashed Potatoes | Cherished Bliss

Sides & Breads

Harvest Grain Rolls | Heather’s French Press Jello Salad | Your Homebased Mom Herb and Cheese Monkey Bread | Five Heart Home Brown Rice | Uncommon Designs

Pies

Desserts

No Bake Brown Sugar Cheesecake w/ Spiced Pears | Baking a Moment Pumpkin Cupcakes & Maple Cream Cheese Frosting | Cupcake Diaries Cream Filled Coffee Cake | Tastes of Lizzy T Cranberry Orange Mulled Wine | Wine and Glue Praline Pumpkin Cheesecake | Maison De Pax

Want to make your own Homemade Kahlua for these like I did?

Want more great Thanksgiving recipes?

Simple Turkey Gravy

Cran-Apple Bourbon Punch {Bourbon Week – Day 4}

By Kleinworth & Co 5 Comments

When I’m hosting a gathering – be it for the holidays or otherwise, there are a few things I always want. One, I want the house to smell amazing when guests first step in the front door. Two – I want the menu to be simple & one that I don’t have to tend to all day. I want to enjoy my guests. Three – I want everyone to be able to find & grab their appetizers, snacks & bevvies easily. So that’s what makes drinks like this Cran-Apple Bourbon Punch so AWESOME. It cooks & then stays warm in the slow cooker. The house smells AMAZING with all the cinnamon & spices too. I can just toss it all in there & it’s ready to go.

Really – it’s so nice to have a warm beverage to serve guests during holiday parties. Which is why I had to include this one in bourbon week. With the popularity of bourbon right now- this one will surely be a hit with your guests.

You could do a separate batch in another crock pot without the bourbon if you want to offer a non-alcoholic version.

Print Recipe

Cran-Apple Bourbon Punch {Bourbon Week – Day 4}

Ingredients

1 gallon fresh apple cider
1 pkt mulling spices about 3/4 cup
2-1/2 - 4 cups bourbon depending on how strong you want it
1 cup cranberries
Apple wedges from 2 apples

Instructions

Add all ingredients- except bourbon- to crock pot
Cook on low 1-2 hours
Turn off - allow to cool about 15 minutes
Add bourbon
Serve in low ball glass with floating cranberries
Sip warm

Don’t miss yesterday’s Captain Crunch Bourbon Balls

Want more great beverages?

Blackberry Irish Whiskey Sour

Cinnamon Roll Hot Chocolate

Homemade Kahlua

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Captain Crunch Bourbon Balls {Bourbon Week – Day 3}

By Kleinworth & Co 8 Comments

Do you like giving gifts of food during the holidays? Do you host or attend a lot of parties? Well I have just the recipe for you. These Captain Crunch Bourbon Balls are the perfect little goodie for all those occasions. Imagine a little box of these all wrapped in a pretty bow to pass out to all those who deserve a little something this time of year. You know you have those people on your list. Those that you want to say “thank you” to or those that you want to feel special or remembered. These are a twist on the classic bourbon ball – adding Captain Crunch cereal for that touch of nostalgia. Super easy to make too.

Really – these took just a couple minutes to make & pop in the fridge to chill.

Print Recipe

Captain Crunch Bourbon Balls {Bourbon Week – Day 3}

Ingredients

1 cup Captain Crunch crumbs about 2-1/4 cup before crushing
1 cup finely chopped pecans
1 cup confectioners sugar + 1/2 cup for coating
2 tbsp cocoa powder
1/4 cup bourbon
1 tbsp + 2 tsp light corn syrup

Instructions

In food processor - pulse captain crunch until it's finely crushed - almost like a powder
Transfer to medium bowl
Next pulse pecans in food processor until finely chopped
Add to bowl with captain crunch
Add confectioners sugar & cocoa to bowl & mix until combined
In small bowl combine corn syrup & bourbon
Add to dry mixture & mix well until completely moistened
In a small bowl add confectioners sugar
Take your bourbon ball mixture in tablespoon size scoops & form 1 inch balls
Roll in confectioners sugar
Place on baking sheet & repeat with remaining mix
Chill in refrigerator until firm
Store in refrigerator until serving

Did you catch yesterday’s bourbon recipe?

Honey Bourbon Apple Cider

Want more great food gift ideas?

Dark Chocolate Pistachio Truffles

Apple Pie Infused Bourbon

Homemade Sipping Brandy

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Honey Bourbon Apple Cider {Bourbon Week – Day 2}

Apple Pie Infused Bourbon

Today is day 2 of Bourbon Week! With the holidays now upon us I thought I would share with you this lovely warm Honey Bourbon Apple Cider. It’s perfect for all those holiday gatherings you have coming up. You know this would be fabulous on Thanksgiving. I mean really – warm cider with a splash of bourbon – it has the holidays all wrapped up in this cozy little glass.

I can tell you – it smells incredible while cooking. You could even make a separate batch without the bourbon for the kiddos. I know we will be having this out on the porch on these chilly fall evenings.

Print Recipe

Honey Bourbon Apple Cider {Bourbon Week – Day 2}

Ingredients

12 ounces apple cider
6 ounces bourbon
1 apple - cut in thick wedges
3 tbsp raw honey
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

Place cider, apple, cinnamon & honey in saucepan
Bring to a boil - stirring to incorporate all ingredients
Let simmer about 5 minutes to continue to release flavors
Strain into pitcher
Add bourbon
Pour into low ball glass
Garnish with apple wedge
Sip warm

Don’t miss yesterday’s Bourbon post!

Want more warm bevvies?

Eggnog Hot Chocolate

Pink Peppermint Russian

Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Apple Pie Infused Bourbon {Bourbon Week – Day 1}

By Kleinworth & Co 6 Comments

Do you like to give food related gifts this time of year? How about having something really nice to bring to gatherings for a hostess gift? I like food related gifts because they are so personal. But sometimes it’s hard to decide on what to give – so I find it best to stick with what things that are trending at the time. Bourbon is one thing that is SO HOT right now AND it makes for a FABULOUS gift. So I thought I would dedicate this whole week to bourbon recipes – starting with this Apple Pie Infused Bourbon. This infused bourbon is simple to make & will wow both your guests & gift recipients alike.

Maybe whip up a few batches & keep some on hand for yourself. One can’t give all good things away!!

If you love the flavors of apple pie – especially this time of year – this is the bourbon twist for you.

Print Recipe

Apple Pie Infused Bourbon

Ingredients

1 apple chopped
2 cinnamon sticks
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 750-milliliter bottle bourbon
1/4 cup Lemon Simple Syrup

Instructions

Place all ingredients in a canning jar
Let flavors blend in refrigerator for 4-6 days.
Shake to distribute flavors each day
Pour bourbon mixture through cheesecloth into another jar, discarding solids
Cover and store in refrigerator up to 2 months.

Want more fall beverage ideas?

Homemade Sipping Brandy

Pumpkin Pie Hot Chocolate

Homemade Kahlua

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

White Witch Cocktail

Gingered Cider Hot Toddie

When I was a kid my best friend & I would throw a Halloween party every year, usually a couple days before Halloween. We would alternate houses for hosting, my mom would sew us matching costumes & a good portion of the school would attend. It was a great time every year. Do you usually go to a Halloween party?? How about hosting one?? If you do – I have the perfect easy cocktail for you to add to your party menu. This White Witch Cocktail is just a couple ingredients & whips together in just a few seconds. It will definitely keep all your party guests happy! I like this recipe because it’s made for adults – but it’s so simple to just omit the alcohol if you want to make a kid friendly version.

So maybe you don’t have a party going on this year.

You can still whip one of these up to enjoy while you pass out candy.

So for the kid friendly version – omit the vodka & creme de cacao.

Replace with milk & a splash of vanilla. Now everyone can have one.

Print Recipe

White Witch Cocktail

Ingredients

**Recipe is per person serving
1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
1 ounce vodka
1 ounce white creme de cacao
1/4 cup ice

Instructions

Add all ingredients to your blender & blend on high 10-15 seconds
Once you reach a smoothie consistency - pour into our serving glass (martini glass or goblet)
Garnish with a witch's broom straw

Want more great beverages?

Vampire Punch

Crock Pot Cranberry Cider

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Deep Fried Mashed Potatoes

Deep Fried Tortellini

I like to change things up a bit when it comes to dinner ideas. What you would normally have for dinner can get dull & I always like to surprise the kids with something different. So I decided to take your regular mashed potatoes & turn them into a kid-friendly dish we can make together during the week. These Deep Fried Mashed Potatoes are fun & simple. They make a great appetizer for game day or just a different take on the usual side dish. It’s easier than you think & I promise- your kids will love them.

My kids loved that they were different than your typical mashed potatoes & gravy. These made potatoes something to look forward to. Adding them to the skewer & turning them into a sort of “mashed potatoes on a stick” was something they really enjoyed.

Just roll, egg, panko & eggs – then fry. Yep – that simple.

Print Recipe

Deep Fried Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

1 pkg Simply Potatoes - mashed potatoes
4 eggs
2 cups panko - or bread crumbs
peanut oil for frying

Instructions

Take a tablespoon full of mashed potatoes & roll it into a ball.
Dip & roll in egg wash
then dip & roll in panko & back in egg wash once more
Place on baking sheet & repeat until all the mashed potatoes are used
Refrigerate the prepared potatoes for a minimum of 30 minutes
Once potatoes have chilled in refrigerator - prepare your oil approx 1/2 inch deep in a large heavy pan.
Preheat oil to about 350 degrees
Place chilled potatoes in hot oil & cook until deep golden brown
Remove & drain on wire rack
Sprinkle with a little salt

Want easy kid-friendly week night recipes?

Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup

Gourmet Hot Dogs

Skinny Caramel Popcorn ~ Low Calorie Popcorn

By Kleinworth & Co 1 Comment

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone.

This time of year is so treat heavy. I try to make better choices through the week. One thing I have really been trying to do is to take our family favorites & change them up a bit to make them in skinny versions. This way we can still enjoy the things we love- but have to spend far less time working it all off at the gym. Life is so crazy busy these days & so I really love products that make my life easier & are convenient without sacrifice. It seems most of the time if I want fast & easy it comes with a high calorie price. So I created this Skinny Caramel Popcorn for my family so we don’t have to feel like we are compromising. Let me tell you – it satisfies every craving & doesn’t taste skinny – which is why I love this Low Calorie Popcorn. Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas?

On my weekly shopping trip to Walmart I found this Skinnygirl Popcorn.

Any snacks that say skinny always grab my attention. So I had to buy it.

Here’s what we start with – Skinnygirl Popcorn in butter flavor. It also comes in Lime – which would be a tasty twist. Then we have raw honey, coconut oil, vanilla extract & yogurt covered raisins. I also added some trail mix – but it was last minute -so it didn’t make the shot.

We make our “caramel” first because it has to cool a bit & thicken up before pouring over the popcorn.

This only takes a minute or two to melt the honey & coconut oil together.

Pop your popcorn & add your mix ins while you are waiting for your caramel to cool.

I love making #SkinnygirlSnacks with the help of #CollectiveBias.

Mix it altogether – enjoy!! So simple- only takes a couple minutes.

My poor daughter – since she has braces she can’t enjoy this with the rest of us.

She is sure going to be happy when she can try this.

Skinnygirl popcorn offers great taste with just 25 calories per cup popped.

What makes the Skinnygirl products unique?

Every Skinnygirl product offers at least a 20% calorie savings vs. it’s competitors

No artificial flavors – No artificial colors – No artificial sweeteners (e.g. aspartame, sucralose) – No high fructose corn syrup

You know how I feel about all those things & how I have been working hard to eliminate those from our family’s diet as much as I can. So I was absolutely thrilled when I read this about Skinnygirl Popcorn.

The mix ins are great too. With regular caramel popcorn I would mix in some chocolate covered candy or marshmallows – or both. I have been known to mix in all sorts of things – but you know, this was just as good & I didn’t feel like I was missing out on any of that.

Print Recipe

Skinny Caramel Popcorn

Ingredients

*Note- this is a family size recipe
3 bags Skinnygirl Popcorn - popped
1 cup yogurt covered raisins
1 cup trail mix of choice
1/2 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup raw honey
1/2 tsp salt
1-1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Starting with the sauce
Combine coconut oil & honey in small sauce pan & heat on medium until coconut oil is melted & the two are blended.
Remove from heat
Add salt & vanilla - stir & set aside to cool
Meanwhile- pop popcorn & place in a large bowl
Add your desired mix-ins
Once your "caramel" is cooled slightly it will look like thicker, milky honey
Pour over your popcorn mix & stir to coat evenly
Enjoy!

Want more great skinny versions of tasty favorites?

Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream

Caramel Macchiato Ice Cream

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Captain America M&M’s Cookies

By Kleinworth & Co 19 Comments

Do you like comics? How about your kids? I love the nostalgia that comes with comics – especially ones like Captain America. So today I’m sharing these Captain America M&M’s™ Cookies. As you know – I love all things patriotic & what character is more patriotic than Captain America? I am so LOVING these cookies.

Aren’t these just the cutest patriotic cookies? I love that they are adorned with M&M’s! Not only do they look great but they are so yummy too. My kids were so excited. They were commenting the whole time they were baking about just how wonderful the house smelled. I love that.

Print Recipe

Captain America M&M’s Cookies

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup 2 sticks butter
1-1/3 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
red gel food color
blue mega M&M's

Instructions

In a medium bowl sift together flour, baking powder & salt. Set aside
In your mixer bowl with paddle attachment - beat butter until soft.
Add sugar & beat until light & fluffy.
Add in eggs one at a time - beating after each one.
Add vanilla
Add dry mixture & beat until just combined.
Remove half the dough & wrap in plastic wrap. Flatten out to 4x4" piece & refrigerate.
With remaining dough beat in food color to your desired pigment. I added close to 50 drops of gel color to achieve this red.
*Note - adding this much color will make your dough sticky. You may want to add in a tablespoon or two of flour to keep it more firm & easier to work with later.
Remove red dough & separate into 2 equal parts. Wrap with plastic & refrigerate at least 30 minutes.
After your dough has chilled - remove one of the red dough packs
Place between 2 layers of parchment & roll to a large rectangle
Remove top layer of parchment & roll dough into a log. This will be your center piece.
Wrap with parchment & place in freezer while you work with the next layer.
Remove your white dough from refrigerator & roll out in the same manner you did the first batch. Once you have a thin, even rectangle - place your red log on the white dough & roll into a larger log.
Follow these steps for the final red dough.
When you are done you should have a large red log with the centers looking like a bulls-eye.
Preheat oven to 350 conventional/ 325 convection
Line 2 - 3/4 baking sheets with parchment
Take your log & slice it into 1/4 inch rounds - I like to use unwaxed/unflavored dental floss to cut through the dough. This helps it keep it's shape when cutting.
Place on baking sheet 2 inches apart to allow for spread.
Bake 9-11 minutes
While they are baking you can separate our your blue M&M's from the package so you have them ready.
Immediately when you remove from oven - place your blue M&M's in the center before the cookies cool.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for storage.

Want more great M&M’s recipes?

M&M’s Cookie Dough Bites

Patriotic Cookie Dough Brownie Bars

White Chocolate M&M’s Popcorn

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Caprese Pasta Salad

By Kleinworth & Co

Now that we are settled in our house we are getting back into our routine of making family dinner each night. I can’t tell you just how nice it is to be in the kitchen together as a family & creating wonderful dishes that we all enjoy. Family time is so precious & I am enjoying each & every moment I can. Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas? One thing we do often is make enough one night so that we have enough leftovers to last us another night or two. This makes it easy when coming home late from the gym to still have a delicious meal when we aren’t here to prepare it. Our latest creation is this Caprese Pasta Salad. It’s perfect for those evenings when we don’t have a lot of time – which seems to be more often than not these days.

I love that it has everything in there that we need. Veggies, beans for protein, olives, homemade croutons for grains & mozzarella for dairy.

It’s practically a meal in itself. An 6 ounce serving left me quite satisfied.

If you plan to make this full quantity & have some leftover for the next day, I recommend holding out the croutons & adding them when serving so that they stay crunchy when refrigerated. When ready to serve – give a drizzle of Kraft House Italian Lite Dressing for that perfect zest every time. I like it because it adds just the right amount of flavor & still keeps it light.

I’m adding the recipe here which is great for a large family with a second night of leftovers. There are 5 of us & this was enough for a second night AND lunch on the 3rd day. This portion is also great for parties & potlucks. If you are making this for a small family, or a single night – you can easily half the recipe. For personal size, 1/8 recipe is perfect.

Print Recipe

Caprese Pasta Salad

Ingredients

16 ounce box Garden Rotini pasta - cooked al dente & cooled
2 cups grape tomatoes
6 cups baby spinach leaves - rinsed & dried
12 marinated artichoke hearts
1-1/2 cups homemade Garlic & Herb Croutons
16 ounces mozzarella cheese - cut into bite size pieces
1 can pitted olives
1 can black beans - drained & rinsed
1/3 cup Kraft House Italian Lite Dressing

Instructions

Cook pasta a according to box directions - drain, rinse under cold water & add to large bowl
add in all other ingredients
Toss to disburse dressing & mix ingredients
Serve immediately
If you plan on saving some for leftovers - add croutons after serving individual plates
Keep refrigerated
Will keep for up to 24-48 hours

For more recipes using Kraft House Italian Lite Dressing connect with Kraft!

Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | YouTube

Want another great side dish? How about this…

Black Bean & Corn Salad

Need a beverage to pair with this?

Coconut Lime Tea

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Change up your dinner routine with Kraft. Visit KraftRecipes.com for great recipes and meal ideas, featuring Kraft. Because food deserves delicious.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Kraft. The opinions and text are all mine.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

By Kleinworth & Co 9 Comments

So Labor Day is like right around the corner. Can’t even believe I just typed that. This year is just flying by. Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas? But because it is so close to the final BBQ of the season I wanted to share with you this recipe for Black Bean and Corn Salad. It comes together so quickly & makes a LARGE amount. So it’s perfect for those Labor Day entertaining with your friends or those fun end of summer church picnics. Whatever the occasion- this is a great side dish recipe to bring along to feed the crowds.

I love the vibrant colors. I literally just started throwing things in the bowl based on the colors I felt it needed to be visually interesting. Of course I took into account flavor medleys – but I really wanted this to have a nice array of colors to just pop out of the platter.

Simple & easy – you know that is the best when it comes to preparing for a large crowd.

My kids went back for thirds! We enjoyed this on the side of our Baby Back Ribs.

Print Recipe

Black Bean and Corn Salad

Ingredients

2 15.25 ounce cans black beans - drained & rinsed
32 ounce bag corn - cooked & slightly cooled
10 ounces cherry tomatoes - halved
1 large orange sweet pepper - finely diced
2 cup spinach leaves - chopped
3 tbsp Parmesan cheese
4 ounces feta cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
3 tbsp garlic powder
salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Combine all prepared ingredients to large bowl - toss well to coat with oil & seasonings.
Chill in refrigerator for about 20 minutes prior to serving.

Want more great side dishes?

Garlic Cabbage Slaw

Restaurant Style Refried Beans

Slow Cooker Black Bread

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Prosciutto French Onion Tea Sandwiches

Prosciutto French Onion Tea Sandwiches are perfect for bridal or baby showers, Mother’s day celebrations, or backyard pool parties. Super easy & delicious.

August tends to be a very busy month for us in regards to celebrations. I mentioned earlier that the munchkin celebrated a birthday.

This month we also celebrate the birthday of my niece & the anniversary of my brother & sister-in-law. And before we had hit mid-month we also celebrate the hubs birthday.

Scroll to the bottom for the Printable Recipe

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Snickers Taffy Apple Salad

Erin @ Table for Seven

I have something YUMMY for you today. My friend Erin is back today to share with you all this INCREDIBLE treat. She makes super tasty goodies & I think I have drooled over each & every one. Today she has really turned on the drool factor with this Snickers Taffy Apple Salad. Thanks Erin!!!!

Hello Kleinworth and Co readers! I’m Erin from Table for Seven and it’s been so great be able to share on Gina’s amazing blog these past few months..thank you so much for having me here!

Today, I’m sharing an incredibly easy and delicious salad. It’s perfect for all those summer parties that you have planned. Of course, if you just want to whip this up and not share it with anybody..totally understandable 🙂

It’s just a few simple ingredients, then, put it in your fridge for an hour and then it’s ready to go. It’s a true family favorite of ours that I’m pretty sure will fast become a family favorite of yours too!

Enjoy!

Print Recipe

Snickers Taffy Apple Salad

Ingredients

1-5.1 oz box of instant vanilla pudding mix
1/2 cup milk
16 oz whipped topping ex: Cool Whip or Truwhip
3 granny smith apples chopped
4-5 Snickers candy bars chopped
1/2 cup caramel sauce jarred or [Homemade Caramel https://www.ourtableforseven.com/2013/09/caramel-apple-ice-cream-with-homemade.html]

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk and pudding mix.
Fold in whipped topping
Stir in apples and candy bars.
Drizzle with caramel sauce.
Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

You can find me here…

Thank you so much Erin!!!!

I will definitely have a hard time sharing with anyone. YUM-O!!!

Want more amazing treats?

Flutternutter Mug Cake

25 Chocolatey Treats

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Easy Garlic Bruschetta

Sweet Garlic Avocado Dip

It’s so nice that the weather is warm & it’s so inviting to be outside. The week before last we were in the 50’s with rain. Then the sun made an appearance last week. I can’t complain – I’m loving that it’s not over 100 degrees outside. However, it’s still warm enough that I don’t want to eat heavy. When it’s hot I certainly don’t like heavy food. So I wanted to share with you all today my super simple recipe for Easy Garlic Bruschetta. It’s the perfect summer appetizer. Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas?

We LOVE garlic. We add large amounts to almost every dish. Do you like garlic?

After I added this to the toasted bread I decided to add a little bit of my Sweet Garlic Avocado Dip to the top. The blend of sweet with the garlic bruschetta was perfect.

I could snack on this all day long! Perfect summer appetizer.

Print Recipe

Easy Garlic Bruschetta

Author: Gina Kleinworth

Ingredients

2 medium tomatoes- diced
1 tbsp minced garlic
1 tbsp minced onions
1 tbsp granulated garlic
1/8 cup olive oil
2 tbsp chopped parsley
1/4 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
1 baguette loaf
4 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

In a medium bowl- combine all ingredients except the baguette & butter.
Toss to combine
Cover lightly & place in refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
While waiting - slice your baguette into 1" wide slices
Brush with melted butter & broil several minutes to toast & bring to a golden color
Remove & allow to come to room temperature
Top with 1 tbsp bruschetta
Add a little drizzle Sweet Garlic Avocado Dip- optional

You can grab the recipe for the Sweet Garlic Avocado Dip here.

For more great summer recipes….

Gourmet Hot Dog Recipes

Baby Back Ribs

….and how about a little dessert?

Double Berry Cheesecake Frozen Yogurt

Frozen Mocha S’Mores Overload

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Buffalo Loose Meat Melt

By Kleinworth & Co 4 Comments

Looking for Easy Family Dinner Ideas? Do you ever want to eat something that you have never had before? This happens to me all the time. I will try to explain to the hubs that I want something but it’s something that we have never made & I have never seen anywhere before. This is usually how my recipe creations go. Some turn out not so great – some (like this one) AMAZING! We spent most of Father’s Day weekend shopping for things for the house. But before we headed out to do that we had a brainstorming session over coffee to figure out exactly how to make what it was I was wanting. Meat – but something a little more interesting than beef. But I wanted it melty & cheesy & a little crunch & a buttery toasted roll. Sounds good huh?! All that ended up turning into this FABULOUS Buffalo Loose Meat Melt.

To add to the wonderful flavor of the ground buffalo we added CHEESE! Lot’s of cheese to this sandwich. Not only is there a little slice of provolone melted over the top – but there is a whole bag of Velveeta Shreds, 7-8 slices of Kraft Provolone & about 5-6 slices of Velveeta Slices melted into the meat.

All that cheese not only adds lots of flavor but also helps hold the meat together a bit more on the roll.

If you are looking for something to wow everyone at your next summer party – this is for you! Definitely more exciting than your average burger & SO INCREDIBLY GOOD!

Print Recipe

Buffalo Loose Meat Melt

Ingredients

2 lbs ground bison
2 lbs thin cut flank steak
4 sweet peppers
1/2 purple onion
1 pkg Kraft provolone cheese
1 bag Velveeta shreds in Mozzarella
5-6 Velveeta slices
Buns
Butter
Beer battered onion rings for garnish
Additional purple onion slices for garnish
spices seasonings to your taste

Instructions

Brush buns with melted butter - broil several minutes until toasty & golden. Remove set aside.
Chop onion & peppers
Combine onion, peppers, flank steak & bison in large skillet & cook on med-high until fully browned
Once meat is thoroughly cooked - add entire bag of Velveeta shreds, 7-8 slices of provolone cheese & Velveeta slices.
Stir until all cheese has melted throughout meat.
Spoon onto prepared buns
Top with another slice of provolone cheese & allow to melt
Top with onion & onion ring
Enjoy!

Want some sides to go with this Buffalo Loose Meat Melt?

Garlic Cabbage Slaw

Sweet Garlic Avocado Dip

**I am a member of the Collective Bias® Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper amplification for Collective Bias and its advertiser. #CollectiveBias

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Berry Smoothie Slushie

Sour Raspberry Tom Collins

I’m super excited you guys!! Today the FABULOUS Rochelle from Oh So Sweet Baker is here today (all the way from the UK) to share this Berry Smoothie Slushie with you all. Being that I have roots to Britain I am automatically drawn to Rochelle – not to mention that she makes SUPER YUMMY recipes & takes oh so pretty pictures of it all. So you can imagine how excited I was when she jumped on board the team for the summer. YAY! Check out this recipe today & then go on over & give her some love too.

Hi everyone! I’m Rochelle and I blog at Oh So Sweet Baker. Today I will be hijacking Gina’s blog and bringing you these delicious berry smoothie slushies…

Sometimes I love to mix things up for breakfast when I manage to actually eat breakfast. I usually steer away from the runny eggs, cereal and those overnight chia/oats that everyone seem to be going crazy for these days. Me, I like the bacon sandwiches, croissant & viennoiseries and fruity things, like these berry smoothie slushies. I’m a sucker for smoothies and are my kind of quick on the go breakfasts. Chuck fruits in the blender with a liquid of your choice, blend and you are good to go. I have them at least everyday for breakfast or as a mid morning snack and love to vary the fruits and veggies that go into them.

Can you imagine sipping these ice cold berry smoothie slushies in the warm weather on your way to work or on the weekends for something different to serve at brunch, along with all your other ‘brunchy’ items. They are perfect and much better than those sugar and colour loaded Mr slushies that you used to get as a kid. These smoothies are full of goodness. Now I usually don’t go on about how ‘healthy’ things are, because the whole these are healthy for you thing gets annoying but here are some fun healthy facts about berries for you.

1. Blueberries are high in antioxidants, which can help protect you from heart disease and cancer. They are also good at strengthening the skeleton too!

2. Blackberries, like their blue cousin are high in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. They also help improve your memory, coordination and balance.

3. Raspberries also have anti-inflammatory properties, can reduce cartilage damage and help prevent arthritis.

4. Strawberries are high in vitamin C and are great for your bowels.

So really berries are power foods, so technically this is a power berry smoothie slushies. Now if you are serving these for brunch, then cake for breakfast isn’t a bad idea or frowned upon. The mini mixed berry shown on the photos are perfect to serve alongside the berry smoothie slushies and the recipe can be found here

Print Recipe

Berry Smoothie Slushie

Ingredients

150 ml 2/3 cup blueberry juice
175 g 1-1.2 cups frozen mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, raspberries)
1 cup of crushed ice Berries for garnish optional

Instructions

Add the blueberry juice, mixed berries and ice in that order into your blender.
Blend for about 3 seconds.
Pour into serving glasses and garnish with berries.

Notes:

Chill the glasses in the fridge or freezer to help keep the slushies cooler for longer

Fancy a creamy smoothie slushie, add 2-3 tbsp of plain greek yoghurt or use milk instead of the juice

Sub the blueberry juice for another berry juice or even pomegranate juice

For extra health power properties add some goji or acai berries

Looking for more berry drinks?

Blushing Whiskey Sour

Red White & Blue Daiquiri

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Personal Patriotic Pepperoni Pizza for An All-American Lunch