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