Orange-Lavender Marmalade Recipe by Candi Fox

Orange-Lavender Marmalade Recipe

Orange marmalade is a favorite of mine. During the holidays it’s frequently added to cranberries, stuffing, and many other things. It adds amazing flavor. Lavender as an added ingredient just makes regular marmalade even different.

You can view this recipe here: Orange-Lavender Marmalade Recipe by Candi Fox

Candy Cane Cocktail Recipe by Darlene Michaud

Candy Cane Cocktail Recipe

If you are hosting a Christmas or holiday party, you might want to make some special drinks for your party guests!

Try the Christmas drink recipe below to bring a bit of cheer to your party!

Remember, these drinks contain alcohol and are for adults only.

You can view this recipe here: Candy Cane Cocktail Recipe by Darlene Michaud

Sweet Corn Flour Scones Recipe by Angel Ward

Sweet Corn Flour Scones Recipe by Angel Ward

These decadent scones are a sweet surprise for a fall brunch and for holiday cheer! With homemade corn stock baked right in these little trinkets of Thanksgiving or Christmas, they sweeten any meal.

You can view this recipe here: Sweet Corn Flour Scones Recipe by Angel Ward

Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe by Laura Gelnett

Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe

Instead of the typical cookies to give as gifts this year, why not give something that is just as delicious and is easier to make than cookies. Peanut butter fudge.

Here is a delicious peanut butter fudge recipe that takes only 5 minutes to prepare.

You can view this recipe here: Peanut Butter Fudge Recipe by Laura Gelnett

Easy Turkey Recipe by Robbin Webb

Easy Turkey Recipe by Robbin Webb

Sometimes we have to cook something in a pinch. Perhaps someone volunteers us, or maybe we volunteer ourselves before we realize that we aren't properly prepared.

This turkey recipe was born in one of those moments. It's easy, and you probably have the ingredients on hand. If you don't, more than likely you have a good substitute.

 The thought of cooking a turkey is all too often unnerving for a lot of people. It is, however, much easier than you think and can be done without a fancy recipe.

You can view this recipe here: Easy Turkey Recipe by Robbin Webb

Potatoes Au Gratin Casserole Recipe by Hannah W.

Potatoes Au Gratin Casserole Recipe by Hannah W.

Potatoes are so common in the American diet, that it can sometimes be difficult to think of new ways to reinvent them. Low in calories and high in potassium, potatoes are a valuable staple of our kitchens. One way to spruce up potatoes for the holidays is to serve them au gratin style. Here is a simple recipe to get you started on a spectacular side for Christmas dinner.

You can view this recipe here: Potatoes Au Gratin Casserole Recipe by Hannah W.

Chocolate Black-Bottom Pie Recipe by Candi Fox

Chocolate Black-Bottom Pie Recipe

Chocolate! It’s all there in that one simple word. Chocolate makes the world go round from sweet to savory it’s a great thing to have on the table when having guests over. Chocolate black-bottom pie is easy to make and sinfully delicious.

Only a few simple ingredients and you will have a dessert that will wow your guests and your taste buds. You can make your own crust or simply purchase a pre-made crust from the store. Either way you are going to love this simple, quick, and easy dessert.

You can view this recipe here: Chocolate Black-Bottom Pie Recipe by Candi Fox

Amaretto Hot Cocoa Recipe by Deanna Polito

Amaretto Hot Cocoa Recipe

Save money and make your own hot cocoa at home! Serve this at any party or gathering or any night you need to keep warm during the Christmas season.

Store this in mason jars or package to give away as gifts!

You can view this recipe here: Amaretto Hot Cocoa Recipe by Deanna Polito

Candied Fruit Recipe by Beth Crace

Candied Fruit Recipe by Beth Crace

It's the holiday season when fruit cakes abound. I have always bought the container of pre-chopped, ready-to-go candied fruit to make my fruit cake. This year I decided to try a different fruit cake recipe, but there was a problem. The recipe called for candied orange peel and citron. I did not visit every store in town, but decided to give up when I did not find it after visiting a few stores.

So, after a few searches on the internet, I decided I would make my own. I was already at Algood Super Walmart, so I grabbed two oranges, two lemons and one lime. (Because the closest fruits to citron I could find was lemons and limes.) What else? Water and sugar, and I definitely had those at home.

I knew it would not be difficult, just a little time consuming to make the candied peels. So, after this discovery, I highly doubt I will ever purchase the ready-to-go concoctions, that contain high fructose corn syrup, ever again. It's so easy and I know it will make my fruit cake that much more tasty.

You can view this recipe here: Candied Fruit Recipe by Beth Crace

Red Velvet Cake Recipe by Christy Pringle

Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Red velvet cake, with it's beautiful red tint, is the perfect showstopper for your holiday table. It has a flavor that's not quite chocolate, but not quite vanilla either. It is traditionally frosted with a creamy white icing, either a butter roux frosting (sometimes referred to as cooked flour frosting) or a cream cheese frosting.

You can view this recipe here: Red Velvet Cake Recipe by Christy Pringle

Blue Cheese-Walnut Mashed Potatoes Recipe by Candi Fox

Blue Cheese-Walnut Mashed Potatoes Recipe

The holidays are upon us and many of us turn to the internet to look for something different to make for our family and friends. Whether you have a fancy dinner party or a good old-fashioned home cooked family get together you can find something right here.

Some form of mashed potatoes will fill most tables across the United States it’s a staple for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Many people will be tempted to by frozen potatoes, pre-made potatoes, or instant potatoes. There is no need. With just a few minutes extra work you can make a dish that will satisfy taste buds and please pallets alike.

Something about homemade mashed potatoes is just satisfying it brings back the comfort of home and often the memories of childhood. Mashing potatoes can be a good arm work out. It’s a way to take out some frustration if need be. Enjoy this twist on a holiday classic.

You can view this recipe here: Blue Cheese-Walnut Mashed Potatoes Recipe by Candi Fox

Sausage and Sage Stuffing by Michelle Hein

Sausage and Sage Stuffing

For most people, it just wouldn’t be the holidays without stuffing. While many families have recipes that have been passed down through the generations, this recipe just might be good enough to replace your grandmother’s. Moist without being soggy and full of flavor from sage and sausage, this is a side dish that rivals the praise of the big bird. Start a new tradition this year.

You can view this recipe here: Sausage and Sage Stuffing by Michelle Hein

Butterscotch Brownies with Caramel Recipe by Sherry Smith-Noble

Butterscotch Brownies with Caramel Recipe

On the 12th day of Christmas my true love gave to me . . . amazing butterscotch brownies layered with homemade caramel, peanuts, and crushed pretzels. Also known as Blondie Brownies, it’s hard to find the words to describe how delicious this brownie recipe is. Blondie Brownies are really butterscotch brownies. This recipe covers the rich layer of brownie with homemade caramel mixed with pretzels and peanuts. The sweet of the caramel and the saltiness of the pretzels and peanuts mix together so perfectly. One taste of these brownies and you won’t be able to eat just one. This is the best blondie brownie recipe ever!

Caramel sauce is easy to make. It’s really just sugar boiled to the point of caramelization, then adding honey, butter, and cream. Although you could buy a jar of caramel if you’re really trying to save time, making your own is so much better.

You can view this recipe here: Butterscotch Brownies with Caramel Recipe by Sherry Smith-Noble

Eggnog Cookies Recipe by Christina Durner

Eggnog Cookies Recipe

The festive holiday drink Eggnog originated in England. The word nog stems from the word "noggin" an English term for a wooden mug that was used to serve alcohol. But before it was called Eggnog, the English called it Egg Flip, referring to the flipping of the batches between to pitchers in order to mix it. It was predominantly a drink among the aristocracy. This drink came to America in the 18th century. But since wine was heavily taxed during times of the American Revolution, bourbon from the Triangle Trade with the Carribean became a substitute and formed the modern day recipe for Eggnog.

You can view this recipe here: Eggnog Cookies Recipe by Christina Durner

Scrumptious Cinnamon Rolls Recipe by Hannah W.

Scrumptious Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Hot, gooey, and scrumptious is how these cinnamon rolls are best described. There is not a better smell on Christmas Eve than the one wafting through the house as a pan of cinnamon rolls bakes. They are the perfect treat when sipping on hot cocoa or coffee. Serve them to friends and family while sitting cozily together in the living room, or for surprise the kids on weekend mornings.

You can view this recipe here: Scrumptious Cinnamon Rolls Recipe by Hannah W.

Shitake Mushroom Cranberry Stuffing by Beth Fitzgerald

Shitake Mushroom Cranberry Stuffing

If this is the dish you choose to take to Thanksgiving dinner, you will be the star. I have never made this stuffing that it wasn't the hit of the meal. I make it every Thanksgiving and usually on Christmas too. It goes with any poultry, pork or beef. The only thing I wouldn't pair it with is ham.

The shitakes in the recipe have a similar texture to oysters and a very rich flavor so they make a great replacement. If you are vegetarian you can substitute apple juice for the chicken stock and leave out the brown sugar.

Thanksgiving is not the time of year that we are thinking about healthy eating but let me plant this seed for when you go back for seconds. I use whole wheat bread because it gives the dressing so much more body and flavor than white bread. This dish is high in fiber from the cranberries, nuts, whole wheat bread and veges, that lessens the glycemic load. The cranberries are loaded with antioxidants and the nuts have a lot of minerals and good oils. Plus it is so delicious, even for white bread eaters.

You can view this recipe here: Shitake Mushroom Cranberry Stuffing by Beth Fitzgerald

Tailgate Party Mix Recipe by Candi Fox

Tailgate Party Mix Recipe

Tailgating is an art between fandom, celebration and caterer. This event is like none other because it brings together sports, and eating like none other. People can have their face painted, their favorite cold beer and some lip smacking BBQ all while waiting to watch their team play.

There is something about the combination of fans, food and football that excites the fans like nothing else. Where else could you grill burgers with your team’s logo and make a statement to the other team at the same time. Grilling, grunting and beer goggles make an afternoon like no other.

The first tailgating event took place in 1861 during the Civil War; though it’s fairly certain that they were not at a sporting event. They gathered for moral support during the war. The day is important because it documents food being used for a specific event.

You can view this recipe here: Tailgate Party Mix Recipe by Candi Fox

Mediterranean Grits Recipe by Elizabeth Kelly

Mediterranean Grits Recipe

Examiner is way ahead of the food trend curve, reporting back in 2009 about the appearance of grits on upscale menus across the country. “Grits, the below-the-Mason-Dixon-line breakfast staple, are now making the scene in some posh places, as nouvelle Southern cuisine makes a gourmet comeback,” wrote your Gourmet Food Examiner in “Grits go gourmet.”

The grits trend shows no signs of slowing down, and while the Southern grain dish may have been a novelty item three years ago, today it is settling comfortably onto gourmet menus, becoming a staple side dish in places far from the Southern United States.

One of the best things about grits for the home chef is the fact that they blend so well with a myriad of flavors. This recipe (adapted from and courtesy of the folks at Cabot Dairy) fuses hot, creamy grits with the flavors of the Mediterranean: herbed cheese, kalamata olives, sundried tomatoes and basil pesto.

Whip up Mediterranean grits as a sophisticated side when serving grilled fish, roast chicken or any lamb dish. The savory side also pairs well with more casual suppers, such as your Gourmet Food Examiner’s juicy Lamb Burgers or Rosemary Grilled Chicken Sandwiches. You can even serve Mediterranean grits for breakfast with a hearty Greek-style omelet.

You can view this recipe here: Mediterranean Grits Recipe by Elizabeth Kelly

Overnight Christmas French Toast Recipe by Deanna Polito

Overnight Christmas French Toast Recipe by Deanna Polito

This overnight French toast recipe is perfect for Christmas morning. Prepare it any time on Christmas Eve and pop it into the oven on Christmas morning.

You can view this recipe here: Overnight Christmas French Toast Recipe by Deanna Polito

Red Velvet Mint Pops Recipe by Lisa Patrin

Red Velvet Mint Pops Recipe

Although you and I both know this quote does not refer to the confectionary treats of our childhood, let's pretend for just a moment that it does. In my early years suckers were my reward from the teller at the bank for standing patiently in line with my Mother, the pot of gold at the end of the five block walk to the local corner store where I could buy several for a nickel and of course Santa usually left an abundance of the holiday themed variety in my Christmas stocking. Additionally, it is no secret that I love cake, pretty much every kind so for me the evolvement of cake on a stick is the ultimate whimsical dessert. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. It would make a festive and delicious addition to any holiday dessert menu. A sucker made of cake born every minute? ask for this in your letter to Santa. Have a very safe and joyous holiday season!

You can view this recipe here: Red Velvet Mint Pops Recipe by Lisa Patrin

Easy Hot Cocoa Recipe by Liz Brooks

Easy Hot Cocoa Recipe

This is a classic, easy recipe that I found years ago on Hershey's website. I've changed it a bit to make it more rich and frothy. I like to make it every now and then for my son after I pick him up from school. On an especially cold and blustery day, he'll look at me and say, "Seems like a hot cocoa kind of day Mom..."

You can view this recipe here: Easy Hot Cocoa Recipe by Liz Brooks

Parmesan Herb Croutons Recipe by Valerie Cogswell

Parmesan Herb Croutons Recipe

The next time you’re feeling innovative in the kitchen, consider the crouton; a mere square inch of baked bread, bursting with garlic, herbs and parmesan cheese. For the home chef, croutons can elevate the flavor and texture of even the most humbling of dishes. Toss homemade croutons in your favorite salad, pasta and soup dishes to make them sing (see suggestions in Chef's Notes below). Or, snack on a few straight out of the bag. The ingenious crouton is one small bite that really knows how to pack a punch.

You can view this recipe here: Parmesan Herb Croutons Recipe by Valerie Cogswell

Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe by Sharon Gay

Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe

Fresh, naturally grown "organic" turkeys have more flavor than a typical 'grocery store' turkey. If possible, seek out a local purveyor, possibly one that grows and sells naturally-raised heritage turkeys-you'll enjoy the difference in flavor.

You can view this recipe here: Herb Roasted Turkey Recipe by Sharon Gay

Pumpkin Bread Recipe by Rachael Monaco

Pumpkin Bread Recipe

Thanksgiving morning tends to be hectic in most Buffalo homes. This pumpkin bread can be baked the weekend before. Tightly wrap and refrigerate until Thanksgiving morning. Slice and toast in the toaster oven, spread with butter and honey and serve with coffee and hot chocolate for a quick breakfast.

All the ingredients for this pumpkin bread recipe, as well as all your Thankgiving and holiday grocery shopping needs can be found at Budwey's in North Tonawanda, Kenmore or Niagara Falls.

You can view this recipe here: Pumpkin Bread Recipe by Rachael Monaco

Muscadine Grape Jam Recipe by Lucy Mercer

Muscadine Grape Jam Recipe

Recognize these plump grapes? They're Muscadines, a grape native to the Southeast that has been cultivated for more than 400 years. They appear briefly in Southern supermarkets in autumn, usually alongside their green-skinned cousins, the Scuppernong. These native grapes are distinguished by thick skins and sweet juice, with a slightly musky or earth fragrance.

Muscadines may be enjoyed out of hand, but they have many uses in the kitchen. Chef Brian Jones of Atlanta's Ritz-Carlton (downtown) serves a muscadine sorbet at the Atlanta Grill and preserves the harvest with muscadine jam each fall.

You can view this recipe here: Muscadine Grape Jam Recipe by Lucy Mercer

Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Martini Recipe by Teresa Vogelpohl

Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Martini Recipe

The perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter just became even better! Add real Reese's cups to vodka, and infuse the flavor into the alcohol. You will feel as though you're actually eating candy.

This recipe is perfect for holiday celebrations, or hanging with friends. Savor in this surprisingly easy, and sinfully delicious make-ahead cocktail.

You can view this recipe here: Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Martini Recipe by Teresa Vogelpohl

Blueberry Crisp Recipe by Donna Diegel

Blueberry Crisp Recipe

Summer desserts made with fresh blueberries are a delight especially if they come from your own blueberry bushes. This easy blueberry crisp takes advantage of the fruits of your labor—or someone else's labor if you buy them at a local farmers' market! No matter where you get them, don't let the summer go by without making some homemade blueberry desserts!

Fresh blueberries for this recipe are preferred, but frozen will work too. Make sure to use them frozen. Do NOT thaw the blueberries before mixing and baking, or you'll end up with a gooey mess. I added two fresh peeled, pitted and sliced peaches for this picture. If you wish to make peach and blueberry crisp, just replace two to three peaches for 2 cups of the blueberries in the following recipe.

You can view this recipe here: Blueberry Crisp Recipe by Donna Diegel

Baked Cheese Grits Recipe by Hailey Allen

Baked Cheese Grits Recipe

Grits are a traditional southern delicacy. But, to some, they can be bland and boring. Liven up your grits up with this new cheesy baked version. The addition of cheese, bacon, and a bit of sherry will surely fill up your family at breakfast and impress your guests at Sunday brunch.

You can view this recipe here: Baked Cheese Grits Recipe by Hailey Allen

Summer Bread Salad Recipe by Elizabeth Kelly

Summer Bread Salad Recipe by Elizabeth Kelly

Savory salads using leftover bread have been a staple of world cuisine for centuries. In Italy, chefs make panzanella with chunks of stale Italian bread, fresh tomatoes, basil and olive oil. Every home has their own version, possibly incorporating local ingredients like capers, onions or red wine. No matter what the mixture, though, the highlight is the once-crusty bread that soaks up the flavors and juices of the salad.

Fattoush is the Middle Eastern version of bread salad, making use of leftover bits of pita or flatbread. In-season ingredients are used to make a dish similar to tabbouleh, but with large chunks of vegetables like tomatoes and cucumbers, instead of the finely-chopped produce of its sister salad.

This bread salad combines the best of both the Italian and the Middle Eastern versions, using ingredients common in the States (especially in summer), with sharp cheddar for an even more American twist. Kalamata olives add a touch of the Mediterranean. The fusion elements make this a dish you could serve with food of almost any nationality.
You can view this recipe here: Summer Bread Salad Recipe by Elizabeth Kelly

Pan Seared Rockfish or Striped Bass Recipe by Kristin King

Pan Seared Rockfish or Striped Bass Recipe

Rockfish, or striped bass, flock to the waters off of the Hampton Roads coast during the cold winter months. These fish are plentiful, tasty and cheap. The most important part about preparing fresh fish is that simplicity is best. In this recipe, thick rockfish fillets are seasoned with nothing more than sea salt, black pepper and a sprinkling of Old Bay seasoning. The fillets are then seared in a hot pan until crisp on the outside and tender and flaky on the inside.

Rockfish is a local delicacy that everyone should try. This hearty white fish is similar to halibut in taste and texture, with a little hint of swordfish flavor. Because of the durability of this fish, any cooking method will be good from frying to grilling. This recipe is more of a method and can be used with any sturdy white fish fillets.

You can view this recipe here: Pan Seared Rockfish or Striped Bass Recipe by Kristin King

Mallow Cranberry Cheesecake Recipe by Candi Fox

Mallow Cranberry Cheesecake Recipe

Fall is in the air with holiday gatherings coming in quick succession, this examiner thought it would be a good idea to start posting more recipes featuring falls bounty. So many foods are indelibly indigenous to both the fall and the holiday seasons.

Cranberries can be enjoyed any time of year, though during the fall and early winter months are when you find the fresh cranberries in the store. This examiner will be exploring many cranberry recipes over the next few months.

Have you ever bitten into a raw cranberry? It’s like a lime times 10 for pucker power however both the Native Americans and the Pilgrims ate the berries and believed them to be good for their health. The Native Americans used cranberries to fight off infections while the Pilgrims thought the berries held off scurvy. Cranberries are full of antioxidants and promote general good health. Pick some up today and try any of a hundred recipes.

You can view this recipe here: Mallow Cranberry Cheesecake Recipe by Candi Fox

Praline Rolo Cups Recipe by Danielle Antinozzi

Praline Rolo Cups Recipe

If you're looking or an easy fall treat, these cups are incredibly easy to make. They only have 4 ingredients! You can use all those extra Rolo candies your kids have laying around after trick-or-treating too. It's a win, win!

You can view this recipe here: Praline Rolo Cups Recipe by Danielle Antinozzi

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe by Kim Klietz

Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Nothing says fall and Thanksgiving like pumpkin bars. There’s just something about the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger that scream fall. And when you combine those flavors with cream cheese icing, you have a real winner.

My mom has been making pumpkin bars since I was in elementary school and they are some of the best pumpkin bars I have ever tasted. The bars are extremely moist and have really good flavor from the mixture of spices. These bars are great for a party since they make a lot of bars. If you want to mix it up from the usual pumpkin pie this Thanksgiving, try out these pumpkin bars and you won’t be disappointed.

You can view this recipe here: Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe by Kim Klietz

Soft and Buttery Dinner Roll Recipe by Jeremy Bookmyer

Soft and Buttery Dinner Roll Recipe

The scramble to find something to make for the family is well underway. While the turkey and stuffing might be the star of the dinner, bread is an important side for any Thanksgiving meal. These rolls are soft, big, buttery and, possibly just as important, easy to make.

You can view this recipe here: Soft and Buttery Dinner Roll Recipe by Jeremy Bookmyer

Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic Recipe by Rachael Monaco

Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic Recipe

If you're looking for a green bean recipe that's a little lighter than the Campbell's classic green bean casserole or the Durkee green bean casserole, you'll love this recipe with for green beans with garlic and lemon. Start a new tradition at your Thanksgiving table.

You can find all the ingredients for this recipe at all local markets such as Budwey's Tops Markets, Wegmans, Dash's Market, Pricerite, Aldi and Save-a-Lot. You may need to do a little hunting to find fresh green beans at Save-a-Lot and Aldi.

You can view this recipe here: Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic Recipe by Rachael Monaco

Sweet Potato Pie with Pecan Topping Recipe by Christina Durner

Sweet Potato Pie with Pecan Topping Recipe

Pumpkin and apple pies are not doubt the most popular pie flavors during the fall season. However, it is this reviewer's opinion that the sweet potato pie is the unsung hero of  Thanksgiving pies. This seasonal favorite has as many variations as the turkey and stuffing that covers the Thanksgiving table. One extremely delicious sweet potato pie recipe is Martha Stewart's Sweet Potato Pie with Pecan Topping.

This pie recipe is easy and exceptionally delicious. The addition of unconventional sweet potato pie ingredients like pecans and maple syrup really bring out a sweet and bright quality in this pie. The texture is phenominal and the taste is smooth, sweet, and indescribably amazing.

One way to add a little extra flare to this recipe is to add marshmallows to the top after baking the pie. Minutes before serving, pop the pie in the oven at 350 degrees until marshmallows are golden brown.

You can view this recipe here: Sweet Potato Pie with Pecan Topping Recipe by Christina Durner

Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Walnuts and Bacon Recipe by Melissa McKechnie

Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Walnuts and Bacon Recipe

When you mention Brussel Sprouts, do your loved ones run screaming from the room? It is amazing how these little vitamin powerhouses harbor such resentment from so many people; yet, when prepared properly, they can be absolutely delicious. Throw away the visions of soggy green balls in a bowl, and try these nutty, crunchy tastes of fall. You can find them rolling off tables at any neighborhood Farmers Markets these days.
 
Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Walnuts and Bacon is a great and easy side dish for any fall meal. Try it this Thanksgiving and you may have some new brussel sprout lovers in your midst. It pairs perfectly with roast turkey and dressing, and its nuttiness and smokiness goes well with sweet potatoes, and of course, a great Pinot Noir to round out the meal.

You can view this recipe here: Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Walnuts and Bacon Recipe by Melissa McKechnie

Peanut Butter Cup Blondies Recipe by Danielle Antinozzi

Peanut Butter Cup Blondies Recipe

I’m kind of obsessed with making blondie bars. A blondie is a lighter, less messy version of the brownie. My discovery of the blondie was the moment I discovered how addictive vanilla extract is. If I come across a recipe and it includes the best extract of all time, I automatically add it to the list. That’s how I became obsessed with the Cadbury Mini Egg Blondies at Easter.

These bars are super easy to make and I found it incredibly hard to not try to eat all of them in one sitting. I also suggest that your beverage of choice with these bad boys be a nice cold glass of milk. Trust me.

You can view this recipe here: Peanut Butter Cup Blondies Recipe by Danielle Antinozzi

Cranberry Coffee Cake Recipe by Aimee Plesa

Cranberry Coffee Cake Recipe

Thanksgiving is a week away and home cooks all over the country are scrambling to find the perfect recipes to serve their friends and family. Here is an old family favorite that is a delicious way to start your Thanksgiving celebrations. If making breakfast on Thanksgiving Day is too much to tackle while making your family feast, consider making this a couple of days ahead and freezing it. Simply thaw the night before and warm in the oven for a few minutes, if desired, before serving

You can view this recipe here: Cranberry Coffee Cake Recipe by Aimee Plesa

Pumpkin Ginger Cupcakes Recipe by Aimee Plesa

Pumpkin Ginger Cupcakes Recipe

I made these cupcakes last year for Thanksgiving and they were such a hit that I have been requested to make them several times since. Be sure that you chop the crystallized ginger quite fine or it will feel like your cupcakes have chunks of gumdrops in them. I use a basic buttercream frosting and a dusting of cinnamon for topping these delicious cupcakes.

You can view this recipe here: Pumpkin Ginger Cupcakes Recipe by Aimee Plesa

Fresh Cherry Cobbler Recipe by Erika Kerekes

Fresh Cherry Cobbler Recipe

This fresh cherry cobbler is a classic summertime dessert. Underneath, it's got juicy sweet cherries mixed with sugar and lemon to draw out the natural juices of the fruit. The topping is a sweet biscuit dough, rich with melted butter and sprinkled with sugar crystals. Pitting the fresh cherries takes time, but it's worth it.

You can view this recipe here: Fresh Cherry Cobbler Recipe by Erika Kerekes

Black Forest Squash Mash Recipe by Heather King

Black Forest Squash Mash Recipe

Last week I picked up a share of farm-fresh produce from La Nay Ferme in Provo. In the weekly allotment were two black forest squash along with fresh oregano and parsley. These winter squash are excellent for baking and using in all types of hearty recipes. You can check out the squash and chicken stew infused with Indian spices I made last week. Here, I took a twist on garlic mashed potatoes, substituting the potatoes for black forest squash. The result is a creamy, warm and eye-pleasing savory side dish that would work beautifully for a Thanksgiving or other holiday meal.

You can view this recipe here: Black Forest Squash Mash Recipe by Heather King

Fresh Pesto Scones Recipe by Nicole Riner

Fresh Pesto Scones Recipe

If you don't grow your own basil (doing it in pots is about the only way to keep it alive in Laramie), you can find great bundles of this fresh herb in the produce sections of Albertsons, Safeway, and Big Hollow. And when you get sick of stirring oily pesto into your pasta, you can try this light, easy scone recipe. It works well with soups, salads, and any other meal that could use a little extra carb on the side.

You can view this recipe here: Fresh Pesto Scones Recipe by Nicole Riner

Mini Pumpkin Donut Muffins Recipe by Michelle Hein

Mini Pumpkin Donut Muffins Recipe

These pumpkin doughnut muffins give you the best of both worlds – the taste of a donut but with the ease of a muffin. And without all the extra fat from frying! Pumpkin, cinnamon and nutmeg add lots of fall flavor. Fluffy on the inside with just the right amount of sugar and spices, these muffins are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee for breakfast, with apple cider for a snack or even vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Using just one mixing bowl and very few steps makes these muffins a breeze to prepare. While this recipe could easily be adapted to make standard sized muffins, the muffins shown here were created to be miniature. Not only does this cut down on baking time, but it also makes them great for sharing. Friends, family and coworkers will all love how easy it is to simply grab a couple of these donut-hole size treats.

Use this recipe as a chance to spend quality time in the kitchen with the children in your life. Let them help with the measuring and mixing, and they might also enjoy applying the butter and cinnamon sugar. Because this entire recipe can be prepared in under 45 minutes from start to finish, you won't lost their interest as easily as with some baked goods. The small size makes these muffins easier to handle, and the cinnamon sugar topping is simpler to apply than most frostings. My five-year-old niece assisted me in making this batch.

You can view this recipe here: Mini Pumpkin Donut Muffins Recipe by Michelle Hein

American Goulash Recipe by Sherry Smith-Noble

American Goulash Recipe

There is traditional goulash, and there is American goulash – both are delicious. This recipe is American through and through; it a recipe most people had growing up and continues to be a favorite meal. Elbow macaroni and ground beef in a tasty sauce – yum!

If you order goulash in another country, you may be surprised to receive a plate of stewed meat! Although very delicious, it’s just not what most Americans think of as goulash. It seems that each country’s cuisine has their own goulash: the Austrian recipe includes dumplings, the German recipe includes potatoes, and in the Netherlands they sometimes include fish.

Betty Crocker defined the style of 60s and 70s cuisine which included adding cans of this or that to ground beef and macaroni (before we called it “pasta”) and voila – you had dinner! In fact, the original recipe called for cans of tomato soup (Campbell’s was the basis for many meals at that time). Well, times are different, but the fondness for the recipe still exists. Here is a slightly altered version of Mom’s goulash.

You can view this recipe here: American Goulash Recipe by Sherry Smith-Noble

Zucchini Relish Recipe by Nannette Richford

Zucchini Relish Recipe

If you find yourself overrun with zucchini, this relish recipe may save the day. Similar to sweet pickle relish, this relish is great on hotdogs or burgers or in any dish where you normally use cucumber relish. Harvest zucchini when they are 6 to 8 inches long for the best flavor and grate them coarsely for this this delicious relish.

You can view this recipe here: Zucchini Relish Recipe by Nannette Richford

Butterfinger Blondies Recipe by Candi Fox

Butterfinger Blondies Recipe

While you are sprucing up those side dishes with some unexpected twists consider adding something new to the dessert list. Blondies are a good twist to the regular holiday fare, but consider making Butterfinger blondies and really wow the guests.

As much as this examiner loves brownies there is something spectacular about a Blondie. Butterscotch or peanut butter blondies are a favorite however the added deliciousness of Butterfinger candy bar pieces kicks this recipe up several notches.

You can view this recipe here: Butterfinger Blondies Recipe by Candi Fox

Swiss Steak with Peppers and Onions Recipe by Hailey Allen

Swiss Steak with Peppers and Onions

If you are looking for a hearty and filling meal that is also easy on the wallet, look no further. This inexpensive swiss steak recipe will fill up your family and leave leftovers for lunch the next day that you will actually want to take to work.

You can view this recipe here: Swiss Steak with Peppers and Onions Recipe by Hailey Alen

Baked Buttermilk Pecan Chicken Recipe by Hailey Allen

Baked Buttermilk Pecan Chicken

Step away from the ordinary fried chicken and try this healthier and more flavorful alternative. The unique addition of pecans adds an extra depth of flavor as well as antioxidants and fiber. Even the kids will love it.
 
You can view this recipe here: Baked Buttermilk Pecan Chicken Recipe by Hailey Allen

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe by Lucy Mercer

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

July is National Ice Cream Month, and easygoing summer days are just right for making your own ice cream. It's simple enough with any of the variety of homemade ice cream makers - from old-fashioned crank-style makers that use ice and rock salt, to modern makers that feature a canister that can be frozen ahead of time.
If you're new to ice cream-making, vanilla is a great place to start. Here's a time-tested ice cream custard recipe, soft and fluffy right out of the freezer canister. Serve with a warm, fudgy brownie for a winning dessert.

You can view this recipe here: Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe by Lucy Mercer