- French Pizza

FRENCH PIZZA


1 pkg frozen puff pastry
1 egg yolk blended with 1 tsp water
1/2 cup spaghetti sauce, canned or your own
20 thin slices pepperoni
5 slices ham, 4 inches square, 1/4 in. thick
3 tablespoons chopped green onions
pinch Italian Seasoning
6 oz. Mozzarella cheese, grated (2/3 to 1 cup is what I use)

Thaw puff pastry and roll into a 9 x 16 inch rectangle. Cut into two pieces - one four inches and one five inches in width. Brush edges with egg yolk mixture.

Place larger rectangle on a greased cookie sheet and spread spaghetti sauce over to within one inch of the edges. Arrange pepperoni, ham, onions and seasoning on top then sprinkle over the cheese.

Place the other piece of dough on top and seal with the bottom crust. Press edges together with a force. Brush top with egg yolk mixture and make four slits in the top.

Bake at 425° for about 25 minutes, cut into squares and serve hot.

Freeze this after cooking and then re-heat it at about 350° til it looks bubbly.

Thanks Vicki!

- Warm Bread Dip

WARM BREAD DIP


1 loaf round sourdough bread (see note)
2 – 8oz. packages of cream cheese
1 c grated cheddar cheese
1 c real mayonnaise
1 tsp dill
1 tsp garlic salt
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp horseradish
dash of Worcestershire sauce
3 drops Tabasco sauce
3 T green onion
10 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)

Hollow out bread. Mix ingredients and place in centre of bread. Put top crust back on and cover loaf with tin foil.

Bake at 350º for 90 minutes.

Notes:

(1) You can substitute the real cooked preserved bacon .
(2) You may want to buy an extra loaf of bread to cut up as there is a lot of dip.

Thanks Di.

- Chocoholic's Quick-Fix Cheesecake

CHOCOHOLIC'S QUICK-FIX CHEESECAKE


1 1/2 c chocolate wafers, crushed
1/3 c butter, melted
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
1/2 c sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs, separated
6 oz chocolate chips, melted
1 c heavy cream

Preheat oven to 325°.

Mix wafers and butter together. Press into bottom of spring form pan. Bake for 10 mins. Mix softened cream cheese, 1/4 c sugar and vanilla. Add 2 beaten egg yolks and melted chocolate bits. Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add remaining sugar. Add to chocolate mixture. Whip heavy cream and fold into mixture. Pour over crumb crust and freeze.

Take out of freezer about 20 mins before serving.

Thanks Sue.

- Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream Pie

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER ICE CREAM PIE


Crust:

1½ c. graham wafer crumbs
3 T. sugar
2 T. chopped salted peanuts
¼ c. butter (melted)

Filling:

2 c. chocolate ice cream, softened
4 c. vanilla ice cream
1/3 c. peanut butter

Preheat oven to 350º.

In a small bowl stir together all crust ingredients. Press into bottom an sides of 9 inch pie plate (I use spring form pan and line the bottom only). Bake for 6-8 minutes until lightly brown. Allow to cool.

Spread softened (only slightly) chocolate ice cream over the cooled crust. Freeze until firm (about 30 mins. - or if you are in a hurry - 5 minutes).

In a large mixing bowl (I use electric mixer) combine vanilla ice cream and peanut butter until well mixed. Freeze until set (30 - 40 mins.)

Notes:

1) I use more vanilla ice cream and more peanut butter (to taste) so that the spring form pan is filled to the top.

- Buttercream Icing

BUTTERCREAM ICING

1 c shortening (I use Crisco)
1 tsp extract (I use clear vanilla extract for pure white icings – see note)
2 T milk or water
4 c icing sugar
1 T meringue powder (see note)
Pinch of salt

Yield: 3 cups

Mix all ingredients together, adding more milk (sometimes it is double what the recipe recommends) or water to get to a spreadable consistency.

Note:

1) I took Wilton cake decorating lessons so I always use their clear vanilla and meringue power. I get them from Michaels craft stores but they are often available at shops that sell cake decorating products.
2) Once you have the recipe at the right consistency, if you are not going to use it in the next couple of days put it in the fridge and then take it out the night before you need it. A quick beat will bring it back to the original consistency.

- White Wedding Cake

WHITE WEDDING CAKE


3 c cake flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1½ c unsalted butter (at room temperature)
2¼ c white sugar
½ tsp pure vanilla extract
1 c milk
8 large egg whites

Preheat oven to 350º.

Spray two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder and salt; set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and 2 c of sugar until light and fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Beat in the vanilla. With mixer on low speed, add flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk and beginning and ending with the flour; beat until just combined. Transfer mixture to a large bowl; set aside.

In the clean bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat egg whites on low speed until foamy. With mixer running, gradually add remaining ¼ c sugar; beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form, about 4 minutes. Do not overbeat. Gently fold a third of the egg-white mixture into the butter-flour mixture until combined. Gently fold in the remaining whites.

Divide the batter between prepared pans and smoothing with offset spatula. Bake, rotating pans halfway through, until cakes are golden brown and a cake tester inserted in centers comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Transfer pans to a wire rack to cool 20 minutes. Invert cakes onto the rack; peel off parchment. Re-invert cakes and let them fool completely, top sides up.

Notes:

1) This recipe also makes 24 cupcakes.
2) I have two bowls for my KitchenAid and this comes in really handy with any recipe that calls for beaten egg whites. If you don’t have two think about asking for a spare as a gift – you will really appreciate it.
3) I tripled the recipe yesterday for an upcoming wedding and that yielded 2 six inch, 2 eight inch and 2 ten inch cakes. Each took longer to bake than the recipe suggested so use your tester!

- French Onion Soup

FRENCH ONION SOUP
(see note)

Soup

3 T unsalted butter, cut into 3 pieces
6 large yellow onions (about 4 pounds) halved and cut pole to pole into ¼ inch slices
Table salt
2 c water, plus extra for deglazing
½ c dry sherry
4 c chicken broth
2 c beef broth
6 sprigs fresh thyme, tied with kitchen twine
1 bay leaf
Ground black pepper

Cheese Croutons:

1 small baguette, cut on bias into ½ inch slices
8 oz Gruyère cheese, shredded (about 2 ½ c)

Soup:

Adjust oven rack to lower middle position and heat oven to 400º. Generously spray inside of heavy-bottomed large (at least 7 qt) Dutch oven with non-stick cooking spray. Place butter in pot and add onions and 1 tsp salt. Cook, covered, 1 hour (onions will be moist and slightly reduced in volume). Remove pot from oven and stir onions, scraping bottom and sides of pot. Return pot to oven with lid slightly ajar and continue to cook until onions are very soft and golden brown, 1 ½ to 1 ¾ hours longer, stirring onions and scraping bottom and sides of pot after 1 hour.

Carefully remove pot from oven and place over medium-high heat. Using oven mitts to handle pot, cook onions, stirring frequently and scraping bottom and sides of pot, until liquid evaporates and onions brown, 15 to 20 minutes, reducing eat to medium if onions are browning too quickly. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until pot bottom is coated with dark crust, 6 to 8 minutes, adjusting heat as necessary. (Scrape any fond that collects on spoon back into onions). Stir in ¼ c water, scraping pot bottom to loosen crust, and cook until water evaporates and pot bottom has formed another dark crust, 6 to 8 minutes. Repeat process of deglazing 2 or 3 more times, until onions are very dark brown. Stir in sherry and cook, stirring frequently, until sherry evaporates, about 5 minutes.

Stir in broths, 2 c water, thyme, bay leaf, and ½ tsp salt, scraping up any final bits of browned crust on bottom and sides of pot. Increase heat to high and bring to simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 30 minutes. Remove and discard herbs, then season with salt and pepper.

Croutons

While soup simmers, arrange baguette slices in single layer on baking sheet and bake in 400º oven until bread is dry, crisp and golden at edges, about 10 minutes. Set aside.

To Serve:

Adjust oven rack 6 inches from broiler element and heat broiler. Set individual broiler-safe crocks on baking sheet and fill each with about 1 ¾ c soup. Top each bowl with 1 or 2 baguette slices (do not overlap slices) and sprinkle evenly with Gruyère cheese. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly around edges, 3 to 5 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.

Notes:

1) I thought I had a pretty good recipe for this soup and then I found this recipe that looked so labor intensive that I was put off. Then one day I had a craving and I decided to give it a whirl. Never, and I do mean never, will I ever make any other recipe. This beats all!

- Blueberry Scones

BLUEBERRY SCONES

Makes 8

10 T butter, frozen whole
1½ c fresh blueberries
½ c milk
½ c sour cream
2 c flour, plus additional for work surface
½ c white sugar plus 1 T for sprinkling
2 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
½ tsp table salt
1 tsp grated lemon zest

Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 425º. Grate butter on large holes of box grater until you have 8 T. Place grated butter in freezer until needed. Melt remaining 2 T of butter and set aside. Place blueberries in freezer until needed.

Whisk together milk and sour cream in medium bowl; refrigerate until needed. Whisk flour, ½ c sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and lemon zest in medium bowl. Add frozen butter to flour mixture and toss with fingers until thoroughly coated.

Add milk mixture to flour mixture; fold with spatula until just combined. With rubber spatula, transfer dough to liberally floured work surface. Dust surface of dough with flour; with floured hands, knead dough 6 to 8 times, until it just holds together in ragged ball, adding flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Roll dough into approximate 12 inch square. Fold dough into thirds like a business letter, using bench scraper or metal spatula to release dough if it sticks to countertop. Lift short ends of dough and fold into thirds again to form approximate 4 inch square. Transfer dough to plate lightly dusted with flour and chill in freezer 5 minutes.

Transfer dough to floured work surface and roll into approximate 12 inch square again. Sprinkle blueberries evenly over surface of dough, then press down so they are slightly embedded in dough. Using bench scraper or thin metal spatula, loosen dough from work surface. Roll dough, pressing to form tight log. Lay seam side down and press log into 12 x 4 inch rectangle. Using sharp, floured knife, cut rectangle crosswise into 4 equal rectangles. Cut each rectangle diagonally to form 2 triangles and transfer to parchment lined baking sheet.

Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with remaining 1 T sugar. Bake until tops and bottoms are golden, 18 to 25 minutes. Transfer to wire rack and let cool 10 minutes before serving.

Notes:

1) Although this sounds complicated it is soooo easy and I can’t believe I never thought of making them this way before finding this recipe.

- Pina Colada Fruit Dip

PINA COLADA FRUIT DIP


500 mL sour cream
85 g package instant vanilla pudding
250 mL Pina Colada (liquid) drink mix

Mix sour cream and Pina Colada mix together until mixture is thick. Add the pudding and mix well. Chill for one hour before serving.

- Fabulous Veggie Dip

FABULOUS VEGGIE DIP

1 c sour cream
1 T dried onion flakes
2 c real mayonnaise
8 oz shredded Mozzarella cheese
2 T dried parsley
1 tsp seasoning salt
1 tsp sugar
2 T finely grated Parmesan cheese
Garlic salt to taste

Mix all ingredients together with chill for 2-3 hours before serving.

- Cinnamon-Sugar Dipped Blueberry Muffins

CINNAMON-SUGAR DIPPED BLUEBERRY MUFFINS

Muffins:
3 c all-purpose flour
1½ T baking powder
¾ tsp table salt
2 eggs
1½ c white sugar
6 T unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
1¾ c sour cream
2¼ c frozen blueberries

Topping:
¾ c white sugar
¾ tsp ground cinnamon
6 T unsalted butter

Preheat oven to 350°.

Adjust oven rack to middle position in the oven. Spray standard muffin tin with non-stick vegetable cooking spray.

Whisk flour, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl until combined. Whisk eggs in second medium bowl until well-combined and light-colored, about 20 seconds. Add sugar and whisk vigorously until thick and homogenous, about 30 seconds; add melted butter in 2 or 3 steps, whisking to combine after each addition. Add sour cream in 2 steps, whisking just to combine.

Add frozen berries to dry ingredients and gently toss to combine. Add sour cream mixture and fold with rubber spatula until batter comes together and berries are evenly distributed, 25 to 30 seconds (small spots of flour may remain and batter will be thick). Do not overmix.

Divide batter into greased (12 muffin) muffin tin. Bake until golden brown and toothpick or skewer inserted into centre of muffin comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes, rotating pan from front to back halfway through baking time. Invert muffins onto wire rack, stand muffins upright and cool 5 minutes.

While muffins are cooling, mix sugar and ground cinnamon in small bowl and melt butter in small saucepan. After baked muffins have cooled for five minutes, working one at a time, dip tops of muffins in melted butter and then cinnamon-sugar. Set muffins upright on wire rack to cool.

- Hummus

HUMMUS

1 (398 mL) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
5 garlic cloves
¼ c (50 mL) water
½ c (125 mL) tahini (sesame seed paste)
Juice of 2 lemons
2 T (30 mL) olive oil
Salt and pepper

In food processor, pulse chickpeas and garlic. Add water and pulse. Add tahini and lemon juice; puree until smooth. Mix in olive oil and salt and pepper to taste.

Makes 2 c (500 mL).

- Fresh Tomato and Brie Pasta

FRESH TOMATO AND BRIE PASTA


Bow tie pasta for 4
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 c quartered, fresh roma tomatoes
2 T olive oil
½ c fresh basil, chopped
½ lb Brie cheese, (remove rind)
½ c pine nuts, toasted
freshly ground salt and pepper to taste
chopped parsley
Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to package directions. Sauté garlic and tomatoes in oil. Add basil and pinched-off pieces of Brie. Stir until Brie is partially melted. Add pine nuts. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add cooked pasta to pan and mix gently. Place in a pasta bowl and sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan.

Notes:

(i) This is quick, easy and yummy.

Thanks Carla!

- Chicken Satay with Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce

CHICKEN SATAY WITH SPICY PEANUT DIPPING SAUCE

2 whole boneless skinless chicken breasts
12 small wooden skewers, (soaked in water for at least 1 hour)

Garlic Soy Marinade:
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ c soy sauce
¼ c lemon juice
2 T oil

Spicy Peanut Dipping Sauce:
½ c chunky peanut butter
½ c coconut milk
2 T sweet hot chile sauce
2 T soy sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp cumin

Skewers:
Cut chicken in ½ inch cubes and thread 4-5 pieces onto each skewer. Combine marinade ingredients; pour over skewered chicken and marinate for 1 hour. To serve, grill or broil until brown, turn as needed.

To prepare sauce:
Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil; simmer 10 minutes, stirring frequently. If sauce becomes too thick, add more coconut milk.

To serve:
Arrange skewered chicken on a platter around a bowl of peanut sauce for dipping.

Serves 4 – 6.

- Chicken Pot Pie

CHICKEN POT PIE



¼ c butter
¼ c flour
Salt & pepper to taste
2 T finely chopped onion
3 c chicken broth
2 carrots, chopped in small pieces
2 celery stalks, chopped in small pieces
2 potatoes, cubed in small pieces
½ c frozen peas
3 c cooked and diced chicken
Frozen puff pastry dough (1 square only)

Preheat oven to 400°.

Melt butter in large saucepan over medium heat. Blend in flour, salt, pepper and onion. Gradually stir in chicken broth. Cook, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened. Add carrots, celery and potatoes. Cook until fork tender. Add peas and chicken to vegetable mixture. Mix well and pour into large casserole. Cover with rolled pastry and slash to allow steam to escape. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until pastry is golden. If pastry becomes too brown, cover loosely with foil.

Notes:

(i) I sometimes make individual pies and this works really well also.

- Blueberry Bonanza

BLUEBERRY BONANZA



Crust
1 sleeve (about 27) of Digestive biscuits, finely crushed
1 tsp white sugar
¼ tsp cinnamon
½ c butter, melted

Cheese Layer
8 oz. pkg cream cheese
½ c white sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla

Blueberry Layer
3 c frozen blueberries
½ c white sugar
½ c water
1 T lemon juice
4 tsp cornstarch
½ c cold water

Topping
2 c whipping cream
2 T white sugar
3 Digestive biscuits, crushed

Preheat oven to 325º.

Crust:
Mix ingredients together and pat lightly into a 9 x 13 pan (I use a Pyrex baking dish) and bake at 325º for 10 minutes.

Cheese Layer:
Mix ingredients together and spread over crust. Bake at 325º for 20 minutes.

Blueberry Layer:
Combine blueberries, sugar, water and lemon juice in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Dissolve cornstarch in the cold water and add to the blueberry mixture. Stir until thickened and pour over baked cheese layer. Cool completely.

Topping:
Whip cream with sugar and spread on top of blueberry layer. Sprinkle with Digestive biscuit crumbs and refrigerate until serving time.

Notes:

(i) You can easily make this the day before – it lasts for a couple of days at the very least.

- Borscht

BORSCHT


1 medium onion
2 quarts canned tomatoes
1 medium carrot, grated
2 small beets grated
6 medium potatoes
1 carrot, diced
1 c. (250 mL) diced celery
1 potato, diced
½ lb. (250 g) or more butter
2 c. (500 mL) whipping cream
1 green pepper, diced
1 small head cabbage
salt & pepper to taste
2 tsp. (10 mL) dill (or more to taste)

In stock pot, melt half of the butter, add onion and fry until shiny. Add cabbage and fry until limp. Add tomatoes, grated carrots, beets and ½ green pepper - boil for 2 minutes. Add diced potatoes, carrot and celery and boil until diced veg­etables are tender.

In separate pot bring 3 quarts of water to a boil. Add 6 potatoes and boil until done. Drain off water into large pot with vegetable mixture.

Mash boiled potatoes adding salt & pepper, ½ green pepper, dill, whipping cream and half of the butter. Add to pot with vegetable mixture.

Add dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of dill when serving.

- Oriental Cabbage Noodle Salad

ORIENTAL CABBAGE NOODLE SALAD


2 T. soya sauce
½ c white sugar
¾ c peanut oil
¼ cup rice vinegar

Mix all in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil for 1 minute then remove from stove and allow to cool.


1 cup sliced almonds
2 T. sesame seeds
2 pkgs chicken flavoured Ramon noodles (break up before opening packages)
½ c. butter or margarine

Sauté all of the above (excluding flavour packets) in a frying pan for 5 minutes, add the flavour packets and then sauté for a further 5 minutes, remove from stove and allow to cool.


1 large Nappa (use Savoy if Nappa not available) cabbage - sliced thinly
3 green onions - (chopped)

Mix together



Mix all ingredients together just before serving.

- Easy Sole Meunière

EASY SOLE MEUNIÈRE


½ c all-purpose flour
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
4 fresh sole fillets, 3 to 4 oz each
6 T unsalted butter
1 tsp grated lemon zest
6 T freshly squeezed lemon juice (3 lemons)
1 T minced fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 200º. Have 2 heat-proof dinner plates ready.

Combine the flour, 2 tsp salt, and 1 tsp pepper in a large shallow plate. Pat the sole fillets dry with paper towels and sprinkle one side with salt.

Heat 3 T of the butter in a large (12 inch) sauté pan over medium heat until it starts to brown. Dredge 2 sole fillets in the seasoned flour on both sides and place them in the hot butter. Lower the heat to medium-low and cook for 2 minutes. Turn carefully with a metal spatula and cook for 2 minutes on the other side. While the second side cooks, add ½ tsp of the lemon zest and 3 T of the lemon juice to the pan. Carefully put the fish fillets on the ovenproof plates and pour the sauce over them. Keep the cooked fillets warm in the oven while you repeat the process with the remaining 2 fillets. When they’re done, add the cooked fillets to the plates in the oven. Sprinkle with the parsley, salt and pepper and serve immediately.

Serves 2

- Bruschetta

BRUSCHETTA

2 large garlic cloves, chopped
salt & pepper to taste
1/3 c olive oil
6-8 firm, ripe red Roma tomatoes, coarsely chopped
handful of chopped fresh basil
24” baguette
Grated cheese (provolone, fontina or mozzarella)

In a shallow bowl, combine garlic, salt, pepper and a few drops of oil. Mash with the back of a wooden spoon to make a paste. Stir in olive oil. Add tomatoes and basil. Toss gently and set aside. Cut bread into ¼ inch slices and lay them on a sheet pan. Brush each with additional oil and place under a preheated broiler until golden brown. Remove from oven and spoon tomato mixture onto each piece of bread and drizzle with remaining oil and grated cheese. Broil and serve.


Notes:

1) I use parchment paper on the sheet pan because the cheese can make a mess.

- Pan-Roasted Root Vegetables

PAN-ROASTED ROOT VEGETABLES

¼ c butter
1 white turnip, unpeeled (or portion of small yellow turnip peeled), 1-inch diced
2 carrots, 1-inch diced
2 small parsnips, peeled and 1-inch diced
½ celery root, peeled and 1-inch diced
8 Brussel sprouts, halved if large
4 fresh thyme sprigs
1½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 celery ribs, 1-inch diced

Melt the butter in a large sauté pan with a tight fitting lid. When the butter is melted, add the turnip, carrots, parsnips, celery root, Brussel sprouts, thyme, salt and pepper and toss with the butter. Cover the pan and cook over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the celery and stir the vegetables. Cover the pan again and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender. Taste for seasons and serve hot.

(i) I hadn’t had parsnips since I was a kid (and detested them) and had never had celery root. This was so flavorful and you don’t have to serve potatoes or any other starch with it.

- French Apple Tart

FRENCH APPLE TART

Pastry:
2 c all purpose flour
½ tsp kosher salt
1 T white sugar
¾ c cold unsalted butter, diced
½ c ice water
*See note for alternate pastry

Apples:
5 Granny Smith apples
½ c white sugar
¼ c cold unsalted butter, small diced
½ c apricot jelly (or warm sieved apricot jam)
2 T Calvados (apple liqueur) I used orange liqueur

For the pastry, place the flour, salt and sugar in a food processor fitted with a steel blade. Pulse for a few seconds to combine. Add the butter and pulse 10 to 12 times, until the butter is in small bits the size of peas. With the motor running, pour the ice water down the feed tube and pulse just until the dough starts to come together. Dump onto a floured board and knead quickly into a ball. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preheat oven to 400°. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

Roll the dough slightly larger than 10 x 14 inches. Using a ruler and a small knife, trim the edges. Place the dough on the prepared sheet pan and refrigerate while you prepare the apples.

Peel the apples and cut them in half through the stem. Remove the stems and cores with a sharp knife and a melon baler. Slice the apples crosswise in ¼ inch thick slices. Place overlapping slices of apples diagonally down the middle of the tart and continue making diagonal rows on both sides of the first row until the pastry is covered with apple slices. Sprinkle with the ½ c white sugar and dot with the butter.

Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the pastry is browned and the edges of the apples start to brown. Rotate the pan once during cooking. If the pastry puffs up in one area, cut a little slit with a knife to let the air out.

While the tart is cooking heat the apricot jelly together with the liqueur and brush the apples and the pastry completely with the jelly mixture. Loosen the tart with a metal spatula so it doesn’t stick to the paper. Allot to cool and ser warm or at room temperature.

Notes:
(i) If you don't want to make the pastry you can substitute one portion of Tenderflake puff pastry.

(ii)I could not find apricot jelly so I used jam and just strained it while it was warm.
(iii) The juice from the apples and the sugar do make a mess out of the pan so next time I will cover it with tin foil and then put the parchment on it.
(iv) This was absolutely delicious and took no time at all to make.

- Croissant Bread Pudding

CROISSANT BREAD PUDDING

3 extra large eggs
8 extra large egg yolks
5c half-and-half
1½ c white sugar
1½ tsp pure vanilla extract
6 croissants (preferably stale)
1 c raisins

Preheat oven to 350°

In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole eggs, egg yolks, half-and-half, sugar and vanilla. Set the custard mixture aside. Slice the croissants in half, horizontally. In a 10 x 15 x 2½-inch oval baking dish, distribute the bottoms of the sliced croissants, then add the raisins, then the tops of the croissants (brown side up), making sure the raisins are between the layers of croissants or they will burn while baking. Pour the custard over the croissants and allow to soak for 10 minutes, pressing down gently.

Place the pan in a larger one filled with an inch of hot water. Cover the larger pan with aluminum foil, tenting the foil so it doesn’t touch the pudding. Cut a few holes in the foil to allow steam to escape. Bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the pudding puffs up and the custard is set. Remove from the oven and cool slightly.

Notes:

(i) This is a new spin on a very old-fashioned dessert and it is really good.

- Apple Cream Cheese Cake

APPLE CREAM CHEESE CAKE

1¾ c white sugar (divided into 1 ½ and ¼ c portions)
½ c unsalted butter, soft
1 tsp vanilla
6 oz block cream cheese (low fat makes no difference to taste or yummyness)
2 large eggs
1½ cup flour
1½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
2 tsp cinnamon
3 c chopped peeled apples (Granny Smith’s work best)

Preheat oven to 350°.

Spray 9 inch spring-form pan with cooking spray.

Beat the 1½ c sugar, butter, vanilla and cream cheese until well blended. Add eggs 1 at a time and beat until blended after each. In a separate bowl combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry ingredients to creamed mixture and beat on low until blended.

Combine the ¼ c sugar and cinnamon (to be honest you can use a little less). Combine 2 T of cinnamon/sugar mixture to apples and mix to coat. Stir apple mixture into batter. Pour batter (it is THICK) into a 9 inch spring form and sprinkle with remaining cinnamon mix.

Bake for 1 hour 15 mins or until cake pulls away from pan at sides or a toothpick comes out clean.

NOTES:

(i) I made this and it was a hit. I think that it is better than my Dec 12 08 Apple Cake post (but then again, this one has cream cheese – which you can really taste by the way).
(ii) If you don’t have any cream cheese by all means make the one in my previous post.

Thanks Nicole!

- Ham, Broccoli & Cheese Soup

HAM, BROCCOLI & CHEESE SOUP


¼ c. (50 mL) butter
1 medium onion, chopped fine
½ c. (125 mL) celery, chopped fine
1 large carrot, finely grated
6 tbsp. (75 mL) flour
¾ tsp. (4 mL) dry mustard
2 chicken bouillon cubes
1 c. (250 mL) boiling water
4 c. (1000 mL) milk, divided
2 c. (500 mL) grated cheddar cheese
2 c. (500 mL) finely chopped cooked ham
2 tbsp. (25 mL) chopped parsley
3 c. (750) cooked broccoli, finely chopped

Melt butter in large saucepan and cook onion, celery and carrot until soft but not brown. Blend in flour and mustard. Dissolve bouillon cubes in boiling water. Gradually add to cooked vegetable mixture with 1 cup (250 ml) of the milk, and cook, stirring until thickened. Add remaining 3 c. (750 mL) of milk and bring to boil.

Add cheese, ham, parsley and broccoli and heat through, being careful not to let the mixture boil.

Notes:

1) This is a reprint from my cookbook – one of the most complimented soups I have ever made – and one of the easiest.

- Banana Sour Cream Pancakes

BANANA SOUR CREAM PANCAKES

1½ c all purpose flour
3 T white sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1½ tsp kosher salt
½ c sour cream
¾ c plus 1 T milk
2 extra large eggs
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tsp grated lemon zest
Unsalted butter
2 ripe bananas, diced, plus extra for serving
Maple syrup

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together the sour cream, milk, eggs, vanilla and lemon zest. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ones, mixing only until combined.

Melt 1 T of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat until it bubbles. Ladle the pancake batter into the pan. Distribute a rounded tablespoon of bananas on each pancake. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until bubbles appear on top and the underside is nicely browned. Flip the pancake and then cook for another minute, until browned. Wipe out the pan with a paper towel, add more butter to the pan, and continue cooking pancakes until all the batter is used. Serve with sliced bananas, butter and maple syrup.

Notes:

i) I like to serve bacon or sausages with these and I always cook bacon or sausages in a 375° oven (around 20-25 minutes) on a rack placed on a sheet pan – this greatly decreases the amount of fat and gives a much better taste than when they are cooked in their own fat.

- Chicken Stew

CHICKEN STEW

6 chicken breasts
3 T olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
5 c chicken stock
2 chicken bouillon packets
¾ c unsalted butter
2 onions chopped (around 2 c)
¾ c all purpose flour
¼ c heavy cream
2 c medium-diced carrots (4 carrots)
10 ozs frozen peas
1½ c frozen whole pearl onions (I have only found these in the US)
½ c minced fresh parsley

Preheat oven to 375°

Place the chicken breasts on a sheet pan and rub them with olive oil. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, or until cooked through. Set aside until cool enough to handle, then remove the meat from the bones and discard the skin (I use boneless, skinless). Cut the chicken into large dice. You will have 4 to 6 c of cubed chicken.


In a small saucepan, heat the chicken stock and dissolve the bouillon in the stock. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter and sauté the onions over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, until translucent. Add the flour and cook over low heat, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Add the hot chicken stock to the sauce. Simmer over low heat for 1 minute, stirring, until thick. Add 2 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, and the heavy cream. Add the cubed chicken, carrots, peas, onions and parsley. Mix well. Place the stew in a baking dish and bake for 35 – 45 minutes.

Notes:

i) The original recipe included biscuits but I prefer to include potatoes and so at the same time that you are adding the carrots you can add chunks of potatoes or nugget potatoes. You could also serve it with mashed potatoes.

- Artichoke Dip

ARTICHOKE DIP


1 can artichoke hearts (drained and finely chopped)
1 cup mayonnaise
3/4 cup parmesan cheese
3/4 cup extra aged white cheddar (cubed)
1 garlic clove (minced)

Preheat oven to 350°

Mix all ingredients together and place in an ovenproof baking dish. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Place under broiler until golden. Let sit for 10 minutes to cool before serving. (Use paper towel to absorb any oils that will surface from the cheese)

- Turkey Meatloaf

TURKEY MEATLOAF

2 lbs ground turkey
1 c chopped onion
1 c chopped celery
1 c chopped sweet peppers (green, red or yellow)
2 T butter
4 c fresh bread crumbs
2 tsp sage
1 tsp thyme
½ c dried parsley
2 eggs
Salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 375°

Melt butter in a sauté pan. Add onion, celery and peppers and sauté 5 minutes until no longer crisp. Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes.

In a large bowl, add ground turkey, cooked vegetables and balance of ingredients. Mix together until combined and form into 3 loaves. Place loaves on a baking sheet or in a baking dish and bake for 45 minutes. Serve immediately.

Notes:

i) These are a great (quick) weeknight option and taste kinda like turkey and stuffing without the fuss – heck buy some package gravy too!
ii) These are great in sandwiches and they freeze really well.
iii) I buy the 4 pack (1 lb each) of fresh ground turkey from Costco and this makes for an inexpensive meal.
iv) These go especially well with roasted vegetables (I roasted baby turnips tonight for the first time (with potatoes, carrots & onions) and they are yummy). Toss chunks of raw vegetables with olive oil, salt & pepper, place on a baking sheet or baking dish at 450° for 45 minutes.

Thanks Cindy!

- Brownie Decadence

BROWNIE DECADENCE
(very rich)


Brownies:

1 c. butter
4 squares unsweetened chocolate
2 c. sugar
4 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla
1½ c. all purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1 c. white chocolate chips or shaved white chocolate (premium imported brand)


Ganache topping:

1 c. heavy whipping cream
2 c. premium chocolate chips
1 to 1½ c chopped, toasted pecans (optional)

Preheat oven to 350º. Prepare a 9 x 13 inch baking pan by greasing with butter or spraying with a cooking spray (such as Pam). Melt butter in a large saucepan. Over low heat add unsweetened chocolate and stir until chocolate is melted. Remove from heat, mix in sugar (in saucepan). Add eggs and vanilla, stir until incorporated. Add flour, baking powder and salt and stir just till flour is mixed in. Gently stir in white chocolate. Spread mixture in prepared pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes just until brownies begin to pull away from the sides. Remove from oven and let cool completely. While brownies are baking, prepare ganache topping. Over low heat in a medium saucepan, bring heavy cream to the boil. Remove from heat and add chocolate chips. Let sit for a few minutes to melt chocolate. Stir until all chocolate is melted. Let mixture cool and thicken, stirring occasionally for about 20 to 30 minutes. Spread chocolate ganache over completely cooled brownies. Press chopped, toasted pecans into the ganache. Let the ganache harden and then cut into squares and then into triangles. Carefully remove from pan and serve on a garnished plate.


Notes:

(i) use 4 squares Baker's white chocolate;
(ii) use butter/margarine to prepare the pan, not Pam;
(iii) using a large knife, I chopped both the unsweetened and white chocolate;
(iv) I found it easier to make the ganache first and then it is ready when thebrownies are cooled;
(v) bake in the centre of the oven;
(vi) if using pecans I would leave them whole – they look more appealing;
(vii) do not use a Pyrex baking pan – I always find that I have less success with glass.

- Fantastic Fudge Brownies

FANTASTIC FUDGE BROWNIES
(Simple and delicious brownie – not too rich)

1 c butter
2 c white sugar
4 T (heaping) cocoa
4 eggs, beaten
1 c all purpose flour
1 c walnuts, chopped (optional)
1 tsp vanilla

Icing:

2 c icing sugar
2 T butter
2 T cocoa
2 T boiling water
2 tsp vanilla

Preheat oven to 350°

Cream sugar, cocoa and butter. Add beaten eggs and vanilla. Add flour and fold in walnuts. Bake in greased 9 x 13-inch pan for 40 – 45 minutes. Top will appear to be underdone (falls in middle) but DON’T overcook. Should be moist and chewy. Add icing immediately after removing from oven so it will melt into a shiny glaze.

Icing – mix ingredients together with electric beater while brownies are cooking.

- Outrageous Brownies

OUTRAGEOUS BROWNIES/PEANUT BUTTER BROWNIES
(Rich)

1 pound unsalted butter (yes 1 pound – did you see the first word in the recipe name?)
1 pound plus 12 ozs. semi-sweet chocolate chips
6 ozs. unsweetened chocolate
6 extra large eggs
3 T instant coffee granules
2 T pure vanilla extract
2¼ c white sugar
1¼ c all purpose flour
1 T baking powder
1 tsp salt
3 c chopped pecans (or walnuts if you prefer) OR ¾ c peanut butter

Preheat the oven to 350°

Butter and flour a 12 x 18 x 1-inch sheet pan.

Melt together the butter, 1 pound of chocolate chips, and the unsweetened chocolate in a medium bowl over simmering water. Allow to cool slightly. In a large bowl, stir (do not beat) together the eggs, coffee granules, vanilla and sugar. Stir the warm chocolate mixture into the egg mixture and allow to cool to room temperature.

In a medium bowl, sift together 1 c of flour, the baking powder and salt. Add to the cooled chocolate mixture. Toss the walnuts and 12 ozs. of chocolate chips in a medium bowl with the remaining ¼ c of flour (this prevents them from sinking to the bottom), then add them to the chocolate batter (make sure the chocolate mixture is cool or the chocolate chips will melt and ruin the brownies). Pour into the baking sheet. At this point if you are using the peanut butter you can spoon the peanut butter onto the brownie batter and use a knife to swirl the peanut butter into the brownies.

Bake for 20 minutes, then rap the baking sheet against the oven shelf to force the air to escape from between the pan and the brownie dough. Bake for about 15 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Do not overbake! Allow to cool thoroughly, refrigerate and cut into 20 large squares.

Notes:

(i) This is really over the top but fabulous for a large group. The recipe can be made and stored in the fridge for several days.

- Gingersnaps

GINGERSNAPS


1½ c. shortening (I used Crisco Golden)
½ c. molasses
2 tsp. baking soda
1½ c. white sugar (plus additional for coating)
2 eggs
3 tsp. ginger (I would use 4)
2 tsp. cinnamon
3½ c. flour

Mix all ingredients and chill for 1 hour.

Roll into balls and coat in sugar. Flatten with a fork.
Preheat oven to 375°

Place on baking sheet in centre of oven and bake for 12 mins. Allow to cool on baking sheet if you want a crispier cookie.

- Broccoli Salad

BROCCOLI SALAD


1 c mayonnaise or Miracle Whip
1 T white vinegar
1/4 c slivered almonds (toasted)
2 T white sugar
2 c red seedless grapes
1/2 c red onion (sliced in thin circles)
4 c bite sized broccoli flowerets
2 stalks of celery, sliced

Combine mayo, sugar and vinegar in a large bowl. Add broccoli, grapes and celery, tossing gently to coat. Cover and chill 3 hours. Toss in red onion slices and almonds.

Thanks Jean!

- Brioche French Toast

BRIOCHE FRENCH TOAST WITH APPLES & MASCARPONE


Bread

1 loaf brioche (substitute french if brioche not available)
1½ lbs. apples peeled, cored and sliced into ½ inch slices
2 T. brown sugar
3 T. butter
2 c. Mascarpone cheese
1 T. grated lemon zest
3 T. powdered sugar for dusting


Custard

5 egg yolks
3 c. heavy cream
2 tsp. Calvados
¼ tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. nutmeg
1/8 tsp. cloves


Method:

Whisk together yolks and cream, add remaining ingredients and set aside.

Sauté apple slices in 3 T. butter until just tender, about 3 - 4 minutes. Sprinkle with sugar and grated lemon zest.

Cut bread into 2 inch slices. Cut each slice sideways 2/3 of the way through to create a pocket. Spread Mascarpone on both sides on the inside of the pocket. Fill (but don't overfill) the pocket with the apples and press to close. Submerge each stuffed pocket in the custard and sauté in butter in a medium skillet over medium high heat until browned on both sides.

Place in 400° degree oven for 3 minutes.

Dust with powdered sugar over top and serve with maple syrup.

Notes:

(i) This is a big part of our Christmas morning traditional breakfast.

- Brownie Pudding

BROWNIE PUDDING

1 c butter, plus extra for buttering dish
4 extra large eggs, at room temperature
2 c sugar
¼ c good cocoa powder
½ c all purpose flour
Seeds scraped from 1 vanilla bean (see note)
1 T framboise liqueur (optional) (see note)
Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Preheat oven to 325°.

Lightly butter a 2 quart (9 x 12 x 2) oval baking dish. Melt the butter and set aside to cool.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the eggs and sugar on medium high speed for 5 to 10 minutes, until very thick and light yellow. Meanwhile, sift the cocoa powder and flour together and set aside.

When the egg and sugar mixture is ready, lower the speed to low and add the vanilla seeds, framboise (if using), and the cocoa powder and flour mixture. Mix only until combined. With the mixer still on low, slowly pour in the cooled butter and mix again just until combined.

Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared dish and place in a larger baking pan. Add enough of the hottest tap water to the pan to come halfway up the side of the dish and bake for exactly 1 hour. A cake tester inserted 2 inches from the side will come out three-quarters clean. The center will appear very under-baked; this dessert is between a brownie and a pudding.

Allow to cool and serve with vanilla ice cream.

Notes:

(i) I made this the other night and it is very rich and very delicious. I used the vanilla bean but I would not hesitate to substitute with 1 tsp. vanilla. I did not use the framboise (cost is $45/bottle and you only need 1 T). I substituted a cherry liqueur and you could not taste the liqueur at all – so substitute with whatever you like best.
(ii) I served a fanned strawberry on the side which helped offset the richness of this dessert.

- Tortellini Salad

TORTELLINI SALAD

12 oz pkg Herb Tortellini with cheese
12 oz pkg Spinach Tortellini with cheese
2 c blanched asparagus cut into 1 inch chunks
14 oz can artichoke hearts, quartered
12 oz can pitted black olives (sliced)
1 lb large shrimp (cooked and tails removed)
16 oz bottle Zesty Italian or Golden Caesar Dressing
2 c halved cherry tomatoes
1c freshly grated parmesan cheese

Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain well. In a large bowl, toss the pasta, asparagus, artichokes, olives and shrimp with the dressing. Marinate overnight in the fridge. Prior to serving toss in the tomatoes and parmesan cheese.

- Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies

ULTIMATE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES


1 c. (250 mL) butter
1 c. (250 mL) granulated sugar
1 c. (250 mL) packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp. (5 mL) vanilla
2 c. (500 mL) all-purpose flour
2½ c. (625 mL) quick-cooking oats
½ tsp. (2 mL) salt
1 tsp. (5 mL) baking powder
1 tsp. (5 mL) baking soda
2 c. (500 mL) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (100 g) bar milk chocolate, grated ( I use Toblerone)
1½ cups (375 mL) chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 375°

Cream together butter and both sugars. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Mix together flour, oats, salt, baking powder and baking soda. Place small amounts in blender and process until mixture turns into powder. Add flour mixture to butter mixture, a third at a time, until such blended. Add chocolate chips, grated chocolate and chopped nuts. Using two level tablespoons dough for each cookie, shape dough into balls.

Bake at centre of oven for 14 minutes (see note ii). Immediately remove cookies to rack and allow to cool.

Yield: 26 good size cookies

Notes:

(i) These are my favorite cookies and are a re-print from my cookbook.
(ii) Do not overbake. The secret to crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside is to underbake them. As soon as the outsides looked cooked and the insides look mostly cooked, take them out!

- Chocolate Chip Cookies

CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

¾ c brown sugar
½ c white sugar
1 c margarine or butter
1 egg
1½ tsp vanilla
2¼ c flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 c chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350°

Combine all ingredients and bake at centre of oven for 14 minutes. Immediately remove cookies to rack and allow to cool.

Yield: 22 good size cookies

Notes:

(i) These are my husband’s favourite cookie.

Thanks Syl!

- Baked Brie

BAKED BRIE

1 c pecan halves
¾ c packed brown sugar
All-purpose flour for dusting
2 pkg Tenderflake puff pastry, thawed
1 wheel (2.2 lbs) Brie
1 large egg yolk
2 T heavy cream

In a medium bowl, combine pecans (I always roast them on a sheet first just until fragrant) and sugar, using your fingertips to thoroughly mix; set aside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (or a Silpat if you prefer); set aside.

Lightly dust work surface with flour. Place two sheets (one box) of puff pastry on the work surface one on top of the other. Using a rolling pin, adhere the two pieces of the puff pastry together. Continue rolling puff pastry until it is very thin, slightly less than 1/8 inch thick. Using a pastry wheel or a sharp knife, cut the puff pastry into a 13-inch round, reserving scraps for decorating.

Place the Brie in the center of the puff pastry. Top the Brie with pecan mixture, spreading to within ½ inch of the edge of the cheese. Be sure to remove any sugar or nuts from the puff pastry, as they may cause holes to form during baking. Fold puff pastry up and over Brie to enclose. The center of the Brie will not be completely covered with pastry. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.

Lightly dust work surface with flour. Repeat rolling and cutting process with remaining tow sheets of puff pastry. Drape over the Brie, tucking the edges under to enclose.

In a small bowl, combine egg yolk and cream to make an egg wash. Gently coat the top and sides. Cut reserved scraps of puff pastry into decorative shapes and using the egg wash, adhere to wrapped Brie evenly. Transfer to refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes and up to overnight.

Preheat oven to 400°. Bake Brie until golden brown and puffed, about 30 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350° and bake until dark golden brown, 25 to 35 minutes more.

Notes:

(i) This is the easiest and most impressive appy!

- Best Ever Blueberry Pie

BEST EVER BLUEBERRY PIE

Pastry:

2½ c unbleached all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface
1 tsp table salt
2 T white sugar
¾ c cold unsalted butter, cut into ¼ inch slices
½ c cold vegetable shortening, cut into 4 pieces
¼ c cold vodka (yes, I said vodka)
¼ c cold water

Filling:

6 c fresh blueberries (unthawed frozen will work as well)
1 Granny Smith apple, peeled and grated on large holes of a box grater
2 tsp grated zest and 2 tsp juice of 1 lemon
¾ c white sugar
2 T instant tapioca, ground
Pinch table salt
2 T unsalted butter, cut into ¼ inch pieces

1 large egg, lightly beaten with 1 tsp water

Dough:

Process 1½ c flour, salt and sugar in a food processor until combined, about two 1-second pulses. Add butter and shortening and process until homogenous dough just starts to collect in uneven clumps, about 15 seconds; dough will resemble cottage cheese curds and there should be no uncoated flour. Scrape bowl with rubber spatula and redistribute dough evenly around processor blade. Add remaining cup of flour and pulse until mixture is evenly distributed around bowl and mass of dough has been broken up, 4 to 6 quick pulses. Empty mixture into medium bowl.

Sprinkle water and vodka over mixture. With rubber spatula, use folding motion to mix, pressing down on dough until dough is slightly tacky and sticks together. Divide dough into 2 even balls and flatten each into 4-inch disk. Wrap each in plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 45 minutes or up to 2 days.

Remove 1 disk of dough from the refrigerator and roll out on generously floured (up to ¼ cup) work surface to 12-inch circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Roll dough loosely around rolling pin and unroll into pie plate, leaving at least 1-inch overhang on each side. Working around circumference, ease dough into plate by gently lifting edge of dough with one hand while pressing into place bottom with other hand. Leave dough that overhangs plate in place; refrigerate while preparing filling until dough is firm, about 30 minutes.

Filling:

Adjust oven rack to lowest position, place rimmed baking sheet on oven rack, and heat oven to 400°. Place 3 cups berries in medium saucepan and set over medium heat. Using potato masher, mash berries several times to release juices. Continue to cook, stirring frequently and mashing occasionally, until about half of berries have broken down and mixture is thickened and reduced to 1½ c, about 8 minutes. Let cool slightly.

Place grated apple in clean kitchen towel and wring dry. Transfer apple to large bowl. Add cooked berries, remaining 3 cups uncooked berries, lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, tapioca and salt; toss to combine. Transfer mixture to dough-lined pie plate and scatter butter pieces over filling.

Non-lattice top:
Roll out second disk of dough on generously floured (up to ¼ cup) work surface to 11-inch circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Using 1¼ round biscuit cutter, cut round from center of dough. Cut another 6 rounds from dough, 1½ inches from edge of center hole and equally spaced around center hole. Roll dough loosely around rolling pin and unroll over pie, leaving at least ½ inch overhang on each side. Using kitchen shears, trim bottom layer of overhanging dough, leaving ½ inch overhang.

Fold dough under itself so that edge of fold is flush with outer rim of pie plate. Flute edges using thumb and forefinger or press with tines of fork to seal. Brush top and edges of pie with egg mixture. If dough is very soft, chill in freezer for 10 minutes.

Place pie on heated baking sheet and bake 30 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350° and continue to bake until juices bubble and crust is deep golden brown, 30 to 40 minutes longer. Transfer pie to wire rack; cool to room temperature, at least 4 hours. Serve.

Notes:

(i) This is will worth the effort and produced the best (and least runny) blueberry pie I have ever eaten.

(ii) You can tell from the photo that I still prefer a lattice top crust.

- Most Fabulous Chocolate Mocha Cupcakes

MOST FABULOUS CHOCOLATE MOCHA CUPCAKES

Use the same chocolate cake recipe as for the Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake which is as follows:

Cake Batter:

6 T cocoa
½ c boiling water
1 c sour milk
2 tsp baking soda
1 c vegetable oil
2 c brown sugar
2 eggs
2 c flour
2 tsp baking powder
pinch of salt
2 tsp vanilla

Blend ingredients, mixing after each addition.

Insert large size baking cup (silly me, I always thought they were called paper liners) in each of 24 cupcake/muffin tins. Divide cake batter into the cups, tap the pans to get rid of bubbles and bake (middle rack) at 350° for 20 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean. Remove pans from the oven and allow to cool on a rack until they have cooled enough for icing.

Mocha Icing

1 ¾ c white sugar
2/3 c water
½ tsp cream of tartar

3 eggs plus 3 egg yolks
1 1/3 c unsalted butter (cool) and cut into small chunks
1 1/3 c salted butter (cool) and cut into small chunks

3 T instant coffee powder
1½ tsp water (hot)

Add sugar, water and cream of tartar (“sugar syrup”) to a small pot and cook on high heat until candy thermometer registers 242° F.

Add the water to the coffee and allow it to sit until you are ready for it.

Meanwhile, beat the eggs and yolks until pale (do not attempt to do this by hand). When sugar syrup is ready immediately add to the eggs in a thin stream – while continuing to beat. Keep beating until the mixture is cooled to room temperature (this will happen because the air introduced by the beating cools it down). Gradually beat in the butter and once all of the butter has been added you can then add the coffee mixture. Keep beating until the mixture is creamy (all of a sudden your mixture will go from a gooey liquid to icing so keep beating – don’t lose faith).

This icing is fabulous and you can make it ahead and put it in the fridge. Remember that when you take it out the butter will have set up a bit so allow for 10 minutes on the counter and then beat it again.

Notes:

(i) I am attaching a couple of pictures that I took last week. I am going to make these again tomorrow and I have bought chocolate covered coffee beans from Starbucks to put on top because really, more is more when it comes to treats.
(ii) The Mocha Icing recipe is lots to cover an double layer 8 inch cake.

- Pea Soup with Ham

PEA SOUP WITH HAM (BUT NO BONE)

2 T butter
1 medium leek, white and light green part only, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
2 large cloves of garlic, finely chopped
3 carrots, peeled and (small) chopped
1 large stalk celery including leaves, chopped
1½ tsp dried marjoram
1 bay leaf
8 c chicken stock (approximate)
2 c chopped cooked ham
1½ c dried yellow or green split peas
¼ tsp pepper
Salt to taste
¼ chopped fresh parsley

In a Dutch oven or stockpot, melt butter over medium heat. Add leek, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, marjoram, bay leaf and pepper; cook, stirring often, for 8 minutes or until softened.

Stir in stock, ham and split peas. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 1½ hours or until split peas are tender.

Remove bay leaf; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in parsley. Soup thickens as it cooks; thin with additional stock or water to desired consistency.

Notes:

(i) I stopped using ham bones after I found this soup. It is wonderful but do not delete the marjoram. Marjoram is what gives pea soup its distinctive flavour.
(ii) I generally buy a cooked, boneless ham for this recipe and make a casserole (Ham & Cheese casserole from my old cookbook) or other soup (Ham and (Broccoli) Cheese Soup) also from the old cookbook) with the rest.

- Meatballs

MEATBALLS

2 T olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 egg
½ c ricotta cheese
2 tsp fennel seeds, lightly crushed
¾ tsp salt
¾ tsp pepper
¼ tsp each ground cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg
1 c (either coarse or fine is fine) bread crumbs
¼ c chopped fresh parsley
¼ c grated Romano or Parmesan cheese
8 oz lean ground beef
8 oz lean ground pork

In large nonstick skillet, heat 1 T oil over medium heat; fry onions and garlic, stirring occasionally, until onions are golden, 10 to 12 minutes. Scrape into a bowl.

In another bowl, whisk together egg, ricotta cheese, fennel seeds, salt, pepper, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Stir in bread crumbs, parsley, Romano cheese and the onion mixture. Add beef and pork; combine. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Wetting hands if necessary to prevent sticking, form meant mixture by rounded tablespoonfuls (15 ml) into balls. Add 1 T oil to pan. Brown meatballs over medium-high heat, in 2 batches; with slotted spoon, transfer to plate. Pour off fat.

Notes:

(i) I always use an overfull cookie scoop (approx 2 ½ t) to make meatballs, that way they are all the same size and cook evenly;
(ii) This is the original recipe but I never fry meatballs. I bake them on a rack on top of a sheet pan (or if I am really lazy, on parchment on a sheet pan – this is lean meat after all) at 375° for 25 to 30 minutes;
(iii) I have had this recipe for years and it multiplies really well. My friend Arlene & I get together to yak, I mean make meatballs, and we usually make 5 batches (88 meatballs), bake and cool them, freeze them on cookie sheets and put the frozen meatballs in Ziplocs (you’d think this blog was sponsored by Ziploc!). That way I have them in the freezer on those nights when I am lazy and can take out as many as needed and add to a quick tomato sauce or even stroganoff meatballs.

The original recipe includes the following sauce:

Double the oil, onions and garlic required for the meatballs and use only half of the cooked onion/garlic mixture for the meatballs, reserving the other half for the sauce.

Add ½ c dry red or white wine (or chicken stock) to the onion/garlic mixture and bring the pan to a boil. Transfer to a Dutch oven. Stir in 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, 1 ½ c crushed canned tomatoes, ¼ c chopped fresh basil or 1 tsp dried, ¼ tsp sugar and ¾ tsp salt. Add meatballs. Cover and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally for 25 minutes. Serve garnished with additional 1/4 dried basil or 1 tsp dried.

Personal note: OK Deborah I will wait for your review!!

- Big Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

BIG CHEWY OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIES

Yield: 16 to 20 large cookies

½ lb butter, softened but still firm
1 c light brown sugar
1 c white sugar
2 eggs
1½ c all purpose flour
½ tsp table salt
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp fresh ground nutmeg
3 c rolled oats
1 1/2 c raisins or dates

Preheat oven to 350º.

In bowl of electric mixer or by hand, beat butter until creamy. Add sugars; beat until fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in eggs one at a time.

Mix flour, salt, baking powder and nutmeg together, then stir them into butter-sugar mixture with wooden spoon or large rubber spatula. Stir in oats and optional raisins.

Form dough into 2 inch balls, placing each dough round onto cookie sheets. Bake until cookie edges turn golden brown, 22 to 25 minutes. Cool on rack at least 30 minutes.

Notes:

(i) Do not overbake these cookies The edges should be brown but the rest of the cookie should still be very light in color.

- Singapore Noodles

SINGAPORE NOODLES

¼ c oil (half sesame and half vegetable) plus 1 T vegetable oil
4 – 6 garlic cloves, minced
2 T slivered ginger root strips
Water (enough to boil pasta)
2 tsp salt
4 – 6 vermicelli nests or your favorite oriental noodles
2 c cooked beef, pork, chicken or seafood
1/3 c slivered green onions
2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (or omit if you don’t like spice)
¼ c oyster sauce
1½ T curry powder
2 tsp soy sauce

Heat 1/4 c oil in a wok or large frying pan. Add garlic and ginger. Cook until tender.

Cook noodles according to package directions. If using nests make sure that they are covered with water; turn off heat and let stand.

Add beef, pork, chicken or seafood, green onion and red pepper to the wok. Stir-fry until hot.

Add oyster sauce, curry power and soy sauce. Stir and toss well to mix thoroughly.

Drain noodles. Add noodles, toss and serve.

Notes:

(i) I use Mandarin Shanghai noodles and cook them according to the package directions.
(ii) I also add slivered green or red peppers and sliced onion.
(iii) I like to sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

- Mu Shu-Style Pork

MU SHU-STYLE PORK

1 T vegetable oil
2 tsp minced ginger root
1 large clove of garlic, minced
12 ozs lean boneless pork loin cut into thin strips
¼ c water
1 cup carrots, peeled and cut into thin diagonal slices
2 c small broccoli florets
1 sweet red pepper cut into thin strips
2 T soy sauce
Hot pepper sauce to taste
2 tsp cornstarch
2 to 4 T hoisin sauce (approximate)
8 warm flour tortillas (8 inch size)

In a large nonstick skillet or wok, heat oil over high heat. Add ginger root and garlic; cook, stirring, for 15 seconds, or until fragrant. Add pork; cook stirring for 3 minutes or until no longer pink. Transfer to a plate.

Add water and carrots to skillet; cover and cook 1 minute. Add broccoli and red pepper; cover and cook 2 minutes more or until vegetables are crisp-tender.

In bowl, blend soy sauce, cornstarch and hot pepper sauce until smooth. Return pork to skillet; pour in soya sauce mixture. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until sauce thickens.

Spread each tortilla with 1 to 2 tsp. hoisin sauce; add about ½ c pork mixture. Fold 1 inch of the tortilla along one side over filling, roll up starting at side closest to you to enclose filling. Serve immediately.

Notes:

(i) I serve extra hoisin on the side.

- Cheddar Cheese Pan Biscuits

CHEDDAR CHEESE PAN BISCUITS

1/3 c butter
2¼ c all purpose flour
1½ c shredded cheddar cheese
1 T sugar
1 T baking powder
¼ tsp salt
1 c milk

Heat oven to 400º.

In a 9 inch square baking pan melt butter in over (3 to 5 minutes). Meanwhile, in a medium bowl combine all ingredients except milk. Stir in milk just until moistened. Turn dough onto lightly floured surface and knead 10 times or until smooth. Pat or roll dough into a 12 x 6 inch rectangle. Cut into 12 (1 inch) strips. Dip each strip into melted butter in pan. Fold strip in half. Place folded strips in 2 rows in same pan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

Makes 1 dozen.

- Italian Wedding Soup

ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP

Meatballs:

¾ lb ground chicken
½ lb chicken sausage, casings removed
2/3 c fresh white bread crumbs
2 cloves minced garlic
3 T copped fresh parsley
¼ c freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
¼ c freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
3 T milk
1 extra large egg, lightly beaten
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Soup:

2 T olive oil
1 c minced yellow onion
1 c carrots in ¼ inch dice
¾ c celery in ¼ inch dice
10 c chicken stock
1/2 c dry white wine
1 c small pastas such as tubetini or stars
¼ c minced fresh dill
12 ozs baby spinach, washed and trimmed

Preheat oven to 350º.

For the meatballs, place the ground chicken, sausage, bread crumbs, garlic, parsley, Romano, Parmesan, milk, egg, 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp pepper in a bowl and combine gently with a fork. With a teaspoon, drop 1 – 1½ inch meatballs onto a sheet pan lined with parchment paper (you should have about 40 meatballs and they won’t be perfectly round). Bake for 30 minutes, until cooked through and lightly browned. Set aside.

In the meantime, for the soup, heat the olive oil over medium low heat in a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the chicken stock and wine and bring to a boil. Add the pasta to the simmering broth and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until the pasta is tender. Add the fresh dill and then the meatballs to the soup and simmer for 1 minute. Taste for salt and pepper. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1 minute, until the spinach is just wilted. Ladle into soup bowls and sprinkle each serving with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes:

(i) I have made this soup twice now and it was a hit both times.
(ii) I use store bought chicken stock and its works just fine. If you have homemade all the better
(iii) These meatballs freeze really well.

- Ziploc Omelet

ZIPLOC OMELET


Quart size Ziploc freezer bag
2 extra large eggs (no more than 2 per bag)
Your favorite omelet ingredients (eg. onion, peppers, mushrooms, ham, cheese)


Crack eggs (never more than 2) into the bag and shake to combine.
Add other ingredients.
Make sure to get the air out of the bag and zip it up.
Place the bag into a pot of rolling, boiling water for exactly 13 minutes.
Remove bag from pot, open the bag and the omelet will roll out easily onto a plate.

Notes:

This is no joke. I didn’t believe it at first but I tried it camping and it works like a charm. The omelet is really fluffy. The original recipe suggests that you make these as a “serve yourself” item for a group. If you are using a large pot you can cook 6-8 bags at a time.

- Pumpkin Chiffon Pie

PUMPKIN CHIFFON PIE

Crust:

1¼ c graham crumbs
¼ c melted butter
1 T sugar
½ tsp cinnamon

Preheat oven to 325º. Combine crust ingredients, press into a 9 inch pie plate and bake (on middle rack, of course) for 8 minutes. Allow to cool.

Filling:

1 envelope unflavored gelatin
¾ cup sugar
½ tsp salt
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground allspice
¼ tsp ground ginger
½ tsp ground nutmeg
¾ c milk
2 extra large eggs, separated, yolks beaten
1 c canned pumpkin
½ c heavy cream, whipped

Topping:

2 c whipping cream, whipped.

Combine gelatin, ½ cup of sugar, salt, cinnamon, allspice, ginger and nutmeg in a saucepan. Stir in milk, egg yolks and pumpkin. Cook over medium heat until thick. Chill saucepan in refrigerator until partially set—about 1 hour.

In a bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add ¼ cup of sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Fold in ½ cup of whipped cream. Fold egg white mixture into filling. Pour filling into prepared pie crust and chill for 1 hour.

Just before serving, top with remaining whipped (you can cover the pie or just pipe around the edge of the pie).

Notes:

(i) This is a recipe that I used this year for Christmas supper. We always have 2 desserts, Tiramisu and one other. While I think that the flavors of pumpkin pie go well with turkey, I find that pie is a bit too filing after the turkey feast. I think this is a great alternative.

(ii) You can easily make this the day before you are going to serve it - just cover it with plastic wrap once it has cooled and leave it in the fridge.

(iii) I used a shortcut for the ½ cup of whipping cream in the filling. Even though I had specifically bought fresh whipping cream, I remembered that I had an aerosol container of (real) whipping cream (that I use for “special” coffees) and quickly made the decision to use the quick stuff – it worked just fine.

(iv) This pie also tastes great without the whipping cream on top – I know because in the flurry of activity between turkey and dessert I forgot to put the whipping cream on the pie!

- Roasted Chicken with Wild Rice Soup

ROASTED CHICKEN WITH WILD RICE SOUP


1 (6 oz.) box long grain & wild rice mix (such as Uncle Ben's)
1 T olive oil
1½ c chopped red onion
1 c chopped celery
1 c chopped carrot
2 garlic cloves, chopped
½ lb mushrooms, halved
¼ c all purpose flour
½ tsp dried tarragon
¼ tsp dried thyme
2 c water
2 T dry sherry
900 ml chicken broth (or homemade if you have it)
1 (12 oz) can fat-free evaporated milk
3 c shredded roasted skinless chicken (I use 1 whole store roasted chicken)

Prepare wild rice mix according to package directions, set aside.
Heat oil in stockpot over medium heat. Add onion and next 4 ingredients and sauté for 6 minutes or until onion is tender. Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Stir flour, tarragon and thyme into onion mixture; cook 1 minute, stirring frequently. Add water, sherry, chicken broth and evaporated milk. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until slightly thick. Stir in cooked rice and chicken; cook 10 minutes or until thoroughly heated.

- Meatball Chowder

MEATBALL CHOWDER
(because it is cold, there's a lot of snow and everyone is thinking about soups)

Meatballs:
1 lb. ground beef
¼ tsp each salt, pepper and garlic powder
¼ c crushed cracker crumbs
1 T milk
1 egg
1/8 c parsley

Combine these 6 ingredients in a large mixing bowl; mix until well blended. Form into small balls about 1½ inch in diameter.

2 - 3 T flour (see meatball options)
2 T vegetable oil
2 onions cut 1/8ths
3 c water
2 beef bullion cubes
3 c carrots, peeled and sliced
2 c diced celery
3 c tomato juice
2 potatoes, peeled and diced
1½ tsp sugar
2 bay leaves
2 T rice
½ tsp marjoram
1 10 oz can corn

Meatball Option 1:
Roll meatballs in 3 T of flour. In a large stockpot fry meatballs in 2 T vegetable oil until browned. Drain and set aside.

Meatball Option 2:
Bake meatballs on a rack on top of a sheet pan at 375° for 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from oven, drain and set aside. In a large stockpot, heat 2 T vegetable oil, add 2 T of flour and cook over medium heat for about 1 minute.

For both options:
Place remaining ingredients, except for corn, in the stockpot. Carefully stir in meatballs. Heat on medium-high until mixture begins to boil. Reduce to low and simmer for 30 mins. Add corn, simmer 5 minutes more.

Notes:

This soup is even better when reheated or made early in the day and left to sit.

Thanks Sue!

- Stir-Fried Szechwan Green Beans

STIR-FRIED SZECHWAN GREEN BEANS


2 T soya sauce
1 T dry sherry
1 tsp sugar
½ tsp cornstarch
¼ tsp ground white pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
¼ tsp dry mustard
2 T water
2 T vegetable oil
1 lb green beans, ends trimmed, cut into 2 inch pieces
¼ lb. ground pork
3 medium garlic cloves, minced or pressed through garlic press (about 1 T)
1 T minced fresh ginger
3 green onions, white and light green parts, sliced thin
1 tsp toasted sesame oil

In small bowl, stir together soy sauce, sherry, sugar, cornstarch, white pepper, pepper flakes, mustard and water until sugar dissolves; set aside.

Heat vegetable oil in 12 inch nonstick skillet or wok over high heat until just smoking. Add beans and cook, stirring frequently, until crisp-tender and skins are shriveled and blackened in spots, 5 to 8 minutes (reduce heat to medium-high if beans darken too quickly). Transfer beans to large plate.

Reduce heat to medium-high and add pork to now-empty skillet. Cook, breaking pork into small pieces, until no pink remains, about 2 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, 15 to 20 seconds. Stir sauce to recombine and return beans to pan with sauce. Toss and cook until sauce is thickened, 5 to 10 seconds. Remove pan from heat and stir in green onions and sesame oil. Serve immediately with steamed white rice.

Vegetarian version:

Substitute 4ozs. of shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and minced, for the pork. If using mushrooms, you will need to add a tsp. of oil to the pan in step 3 before adding the mushrooms.

- Pappa Al Pomodoro

PAPPA AL POMODORO

Soup:

½ c olive oil
2 cups chopped onions
1 c medium-diced carrots (3 carrots)
1 fennel bulb, trimmed, cored and medium-diced (1½ c)
4 cloves garlic minced
3 c ciabatta or calabrese bread, crusts removed and cut (or torn) into small pieces
2 (28 ozs) cans good Italian plum tomatoes
4 c chicken stock
½ c dry red wine
1 c chopped fresh basil leaves
Salt and freshly ground pepper
½ c freshly grated Parmesan cheese (not the kind in the green container)

Topping:

3 c ciabatta or calabrese bread, crusts removed and cut (or torn) into small pieces
2 ozs thinly slicked pancetta, chopped
24 – 30 basil leaves
3 T olive oil, plus more for serving

Heat the oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, fennel and garlic and cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, until tender. Add the bread and cook for 5 more minutes. Place the tomatoes in the bowl or a food processor and process just until coarsely chopped (or by hand works too). Add the tomatoes to the pot along with the chicken stock, red wine, basil, 1 T salt and 1½ tsp pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, lower the heat, and allow to simmer, partially covered, for 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375º.

For the topping, place the bread, pancetta and basil on a sheet pan large enough to hold them in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss well. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 – 25 minutes, until all the ingredients are crisp. The basil leaves will turn dark and crisp which is perfectly fine. Reheat the soup, if necessary and beat with a wire whisk until the bread is broken up. Stir in the parmesan and taste for seasoning. Serve hot sprinkled with the topping and drizzles with additional olive oil.


Notes:

(i) I was a bit skeptical about the topping but it is great so don’t skip this step;
(ii) I used Save-On Calabrese bread and it took about 1½ loaves;
(iii) This is a really tasty peasant type soup and it got the thumbs up tonight!

- Spinach and Orzo Salad

SPINACH AND ORZO SALAD

8 ozs orzo pasta
Salt
¼ c pine nuts
6 ozs feta cheese, roughly crumbled
2 ozs Kalamata Greek olives pitted, roughly chopped (about ½ c or 20 olives)
4 ozs baby spinach
½ cup chopped red onion
3 T olive oil
1 T balsamic vinegar
1 T red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp dried basil
2 tsp dried tarragon
Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Using a large pot with lots of salted water, cook the pasta according to the package directions (around 9 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water, shaking off the excess water.

Toast the pine nuts by heating in a small skillet on medium heat (I used a small dash of olive oil). Add the pine nuts and stir constantly (they will burn easily so don’t take your eyes off them – they’re too expensive to burn) until the pine nuts are lightly browned.

Take half of the spinach and purée it in a food processor or blender, adding 1 T of the olive oil. Roughly chop the other half of the spinach. In a large serving bowl mix the spinach purée/olive oil mixture in with the cooked pasta until the pasta is well coated with the purée. Then gently mix in the remaining spinach, red onion, feta cheese, pine nuts and the olives.

In a small bowl combine the remaining 2 T olive oil, balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, mustard, dried basil and dried tarragon. Whisk until emulsified and pour over the pasta mixture. Gently mix to combine.

Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes:

This is my new favorite salad.

Thanks Nicole!

- Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake

CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CAKE

Cake:

6 T cocoa
½ c boiling water
1 c sour milk
2 tsp baking soda
1 c vegetable oil
2 c brown sugar
2 eggs
2 c flour
2 tsp baking powder
pinch of salt
2 tsp vanilla

Blend ingredients, mixing after each addition.

Generously spray Pam in each of two 8 inch cake pans. Divide cake batter between the pans, tap the pans to get rid of bubbles and bake (middle rack) at 350° for 35 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean. Remove pans from the oven and allow to cool on a rack for 10 minutes before removing the cakes. Remove the cakes from the pans and place on the rack until completely cooled. Slice each cake in half so that you end up with 4 layers.

Peanut Butter Icing:

10 ozs cream cheese (not the soft spread)
½ c unsalted butter, at room temperature
5 cups icing sugar
2/3 c smooth peanut butter

In stand mixer beat the cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the icing sugar 1 cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl often. Continue to beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes.

Add the peanut butter and beat until thoroughly blended. Ice cake and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Glaze

8 ozs semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped (or chocolate chips if you don’t have any baking squares)
3 T smooth peanut butter
2 T light corn syrup
½ c half and half

In the top of a double boiler or in a bowl set over simmering water, combine the chocolate, peanut butter and corn syrup. Cook, whisking often, until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth (if the chocolate seems thick don’t worry, the cream will smooth it out).

Remove from heat and whisk in the half and half, beating until smooth. Use while still warm. Pour the glaze over the cake and use an offset spatula to spread the glaze over the top of the cake, allowing the glaze to drip over the sides of the cake. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and remove the cake from the fridge at least 1 hour before serving.


Notes:

The chocolate cake portion of this recipe is my all-time favorite chocolate cake recipe that I got from a friend about 30 years ago. I use it all the time and it is also great for cupcakes. I use a stand mixer so I just add each ingredient in the order listed before pouring it into the pans. It has never failed me.

If you make this cake (with icings) be prepared, this has been described as intense and it is that!

- Apricot Orange Scones

APRICOT ORANGE SCONES

4½ c flour
¼ c sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
2 T baking powder
2 tsp kosher salt
2 tsp grated orange zest (2 oranges)
1½ c cold unsalted butter, diced
4 extra large eggs, lightly beaten
1 c whipping cream
1 c dried apricots, cut into small pieces
1 egg beaten with 2 T water, for egg wash
½ c plus 2 T icing sugar
4 tsp orange juice

Preheat oven to 400º. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix 4 c of flour, ¼ c sugar, the baking powder, salt and orange zest. Add the cold butter and mix at the lowest speed until the butter is the size of peas. Combine the eggs and whipping cream and, with the mixer on low speed, slowly add to the flour and butter mixture. Mix until just blended. The dough will look lumpy. Combine the dried apricots with ¼ c of flour, add to the dough and mix on low speed until blended.

Dump the flour onto a well-floured board and knead it into a ball. Flour your hands and a rolling pin and roll the dough just under 1 inch thick. You should see small bits of butter in the dough. Keep moving the dough on the floured board so it doesn’t stick. Flour a 3 inch round plain or fluted cutter and cut circles of dough. Place the scones on the prepared sheet pan. Collect the scraps neatly, roll them out, and cut more circles.

Brush the tops of the scones with the egg wash, sprinkle with the sugar and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the tops are browned and the insides are fully baked. The scones will be firm to the touch. Allow the sc ones to cool for 15 minutes and then whisk together the icing sugar and orange juice and drizzle over the scones.

Notes:

Be prepared if you make these to eat more than you thought possible - they are impressive!

- Banana Crunch Muffins

BANANA CRUNCH MUFFINS

3 c flour
2 c sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ lb unsalted butter, melted and cooled
2 extra large eggs
¾ c milk (don’t use skim)
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 c mashed bananas (2 bananas)
1 c medium diced ripe bananas (1 banana)
1 c small diced pecans
1 c granola
1 c sweetened shredded coconut

Preheat oven to 350º.

Liberally spray a 12 muffin tin with Pam.

Sift the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt into the bowl of an electric mixer with a paddle attachment. Add the melted butter and blend, Combine the eggs, milk, vanilla and mashed bananas, and add them to the flour and butter mixture. Scrape the bowl and blend well but don’t overmix.

Fold the diced bananas, pecans, granola and coconut into the batter. Divide the mixture in the pan into 12 muffins.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the tops are brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool slightly, remove from the pan and serve.


Notes:

(i) These are fabulous;
(ii) When my bananas become overripe (brown) I throw them in the freezer for future baking and I microwave them as I need them;
(iii) For the granola I use Rogers 9 Grain for cereal and baking (simply because I use it for bread so I always have it on hand);
(v) You can substitute walnuts for the pecans. I hate walnuts so I never use them for anything. I always roast my pecans and then put them in the freezer so they are ready for use.
(vi) Do not let the muffins cool for more than 5 minutes before removing them or you will have a heck of a time getting them out of the muffin tin.

- Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Bocconcini

TOMATO BASIL PASTA WITH FRESH BOCCONCINI

3 T extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (more if you like a bite)
1 - 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 - 14½ oz can diced tomatoes
5 T roughly chopped fresh basil
¼ tsp sugar
Salt
1 lb fusilli pasta (or other similar shape)
8 oz fresh drained bocconcini pearls or larger balls cut into small pieces
1/3 c grated Parmesan cheese

Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 1 T salt and pasta and cook until pasta is al dente. Drain (reserving ¼ c of the pasta water) and return pasta to the pot.

Meanwhile, combine 2 T of the olive oil, garlic and pepper flakes over medium heat until fragrant but not brown (about 2 minutes). Stir in crushed and diced tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Stir until sauce is slightly thickened (about 15- 20 minutes). Stir in 3 T basil, the sugar and ½ tsp. salt.

Add the sauce to the pasta along with the remaining 1 T of olive oil and cook over medium heat until heated through (about 1 minute) (add reserved pasta water if pasta seems dry). Stir in bocconcini and season with salt. Serve, sprinkling with remaining 2 T of basil and the fresh Parmesan.

Notes:

(i) This is super easy and is a really tasty update on the old mac and cheese;
(ii) Don’t cheap out and buy block mozzarella – there is a huge difference!

- Butternut Squash and Caramelized Onion Galette

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND CARAMALIZED ONION GALETTE

Pastry:

1¼ c all purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
½ c unsalted butter, cut into pieces
¼ c sour cream
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
¼ c ice water

Filling:

1 small butternut squash (about one pound)
2 T olive oil
1 to 2 T butter (if you have only non-stick, the small amount will do)
1 large onion, halved and thinly sliced in half moons
1 tsp salt
Pinch of sugar
¼ tsp cayenne, or to taste
¾ c fontina (or other favorite) cheese (about 2 ½ oz) grated or cut into small bits
1½ tsp chopped fresh sage leaves


Pastry:

In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Place the butter in another bowl. Place both bowls in the freezer for 1 hour. Remove the bowls from the freezer and make a well in the centre of the flour. Add the butter to the well and, using a pastry blender, cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Make another well in the centre. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lemon juice and water and add ½ of this mixture to the well. With your fingertips, mix in the liquid until large lumps form. Add the other ½ of the sour cream, lemon juice and water mixture and pat into a ball (do not overwork the dough). Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Squash:

Preheat oven to 375º. Peel the squash, halve it and scoop out the seeds. Cut into a ½ inch dice. Toss pieces with olive oil and a ½ tsp of the salt and roast on a foil lined (for easy clean-up) baking sheet for 30 minutes or until pieces are tender, turning it midway if your oven bakes unevenly. Set aside to cool slightly.

Onions:

While squash is roasting, melt butter in a heavy skillet and cook onion over low heat with the remaining ½ tsp of salt and pinch of sugar, stirring occasionally, until soft and lightly golden brown (about 20 mins). Stir in cayenne.

Raise the oven temperature to 400º. Mix squash, caramelized onions, cheese and herbs together in a bowl.

Galette:

On a floured work surface, roll the dough out into a 12 inch round. Transfer to an ungreased baking sheet. Spread the squash, onion, cheese and herb mixture over the dough leaving a 1½ inch border. Fold the border over the filling, pleating the edge to make it fit. Remember that the centre will be open – this is not a pie.

Bake until golden brown around 30 – 40 minutes. Remove from the oven, let stand for 5 minutes then slide the galette onto a serving place. Cut into wedges and serve hot or warm.

Notes:

This is worth the effort – it is yummy!

Thanks Nicole!

- Turkey and Black Bean Chili

TURKEY AND BLACK BEAN CHILI


1 tbsp. olive oil
1 lb. ground turkey
1 19 oz. can black beans
1 473 ml or similar sized jar of chunky tomato salsa
1 14 oz. can diced tomatoes
1 14 oz. can crushed tomatoes
2 cups chicken stock
1 tsp. chili powder
1/2 tsp. cumin
1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
Salt and pepper to taste


Heat the oil in a large pot. Add the turkey and cook, stirring, until cooked through and crumbly. Drain the excess fat from the pot and then add all the remaining ingredients. Loosely cover and bring the chili to a gentle simmer.

Simmer the chili for 25 to 30 minutes, until thickened and deliciously flavoured If desired, top bowls of the chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of grated cheddar or jack cheese, and serve taco chips alongside for dunking.

Thanks Deborah!