tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62899008147612556352024-03-05T23:57:51.810-06:00Tasty Sweet: Chronicles of a Cupcake ArtistSarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-23204264494665068252013-05-10T23:58:00.000-05:002013-05-10T23:58:58.553-05:00It's Been A Long Six Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has been sixth months since my last post. I've missed the blog very much but also enjoyed the much needed break. I'm not sure what direction future posts will go in but I hope to share some cupcake creations soon, along with other recipes or maybe just a bunch of randomness. Only time will tell. Now I'm off to delete 6 months worth of spam comments left in my absence.Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-133354175203861692012-11-11T20:50:00.000-06:002012-11-11T20:50:10.302-06:00High Heel Cupcake Fun<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A couple months ago I had the opportunity to share my love of cupcakes with a creative group of 3rd graders. They were Brownie Troop 2304 and their fearless leader, Annie, asked me to come in and do a cupcake project with the girls. I had seen these high heel cupcakes online but had never attempted them on my own. I thought they would be the perfect cupcakes to make with the girls. The one above is the demo I made to show the girls. I also prepped the graham cracker "soles" ahead of time. <br />
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While the girls handled a few Brownie Troop orders of business, I set up the spread of cupcakes, soles and heels along with any kind of sprinkle you could think of. What happened next was amazing. I sat back and watched the girls create every color of frosting under the sun and proceed to make some of the most fabulous high heels I've ever seen! <br />
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Now I'm far from a type A personality but when it comes to cupcakes, I'm pretty precise. I tend to go for the perfect swirl with symmetric looking sprinkles, trying to achieve perfection. I could learn something from these girls.....sometimes you just need to let the creativity flow! Get sticky with frosting and there is never "too much" frosting or "too many" sprinkles.<br />
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The best part, I was given a cupcake decorating badge. That might not seem like a big deal to you, but I was never a Brownie or Girl Scout so I never had the opportunity to earn the badges. I was always jealous of the sashes full of badges. </div>
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This was such a fun night. I'm excited to do it again with a Girl Scout group next month. It will be just in time, to give me another little reminder to let go and have fun. Let the frosting fly and get creative. I can't wait to see what the next group comes up with. </div>
Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-46587200541328838192012-10-23T12:42:00.000-05:002012-10-23T12:42:23.602-05:00I love Pumpkin!Hi, my name is Sara and I'm a pumpkin-aholic. I may even be hoarding cans of pumpkin puree in case of shortage as everyone scrambles to make pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving. Oh, maybe not really....or am I? Either way, I am loving all the recipes floating around pinterest and what not this time of year incorporating this fruit? vegetable? gourd?<br />
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I've made a few things lately using pumpkin and/or pumpkin flavor that I'd like to share with you. First off, Pumpkin French Toast.<br />
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I wouldn't even really call this a "recipe" because I just kind of tossed things together until the flavor came out just right. Adjust accordingly, this part of trial and error is fun....and tasty too!</div>
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<strong><em><u>Pumpkin French Toast</u></em></strong></div>
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6 slices day old whole wheat french bread</div>
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3 eggs</div>
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3 Tbs. pumpkin puree</div>
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1 Tbs. milk</div>
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1/2 Tbs. cinnamon</div>
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1/2 tsp. vanilla</div>
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pinch of nutmeg</div>
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pinch of cloves</div>
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cool whip (optional)</div>
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maple syrup (optional)</div>
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Mix eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and cloves in a shallow bowl. Dip each slice of bread in mixture and coat both sides evenly. Cook in pan coated with cooking spray on medium heat. Turn once, cooking each side 2 -3 minutes or until golden brown. Dress with maple syrup and cool whip or whatever your favorite pancake/french toast toppings may be. I love this breakfast for cleaning up leftover bread or buying day old bread that the store for a discount (yeah, I'm cheap!).</div>
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Another great little treat I've been making is mini pumpkin "pies". I first saw this on Instagram, posted by Brianne from <a href="http://cupcakesandkalechips.com/" target="_blank">Cupcakes and Kale Chips</a>. She served it in a cup, I added it to a mini pre-made graham cracker crust.</div>
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<strong><em><u>Mini Pumpkin Pies</u></em></strong></div>
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1 pre-packaged vanilla pudding cup</div>
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1/2 cup pumpkin puree</div>
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1/4 tsp. cinnamon</div>
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1/8 tsp. nutmeg</div>
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1/2 Tbs. honey (or to taste)</div>
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2 mini graham cracker crusts</div>
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cool whip </div>
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Mix pudding, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and honey. Divide evenly among pie crusts. Top with cool whip. Notice I don't put an amount of cool whip. Add as much or as little as you want, go nuts! </div>
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The last treat I saw posted by Aimee on her blog, <a href="http://www.shugarysweets.com/" target="_blank">Shugary Sweets</a>. I immediately pinned it and went grocery shopping that day in hopes of finding the seasonal pumpkin spice pudding mix needed for this recipe. Again, I may be hoarding boxes of this also. Maybe.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBYBsaueNoTEIZdLwdcp06p4mgWIm7xVFkduRDCX4B8UyUrpWz2tWYJY6M-j2jt0FE3ijyhvIfkOvTRlAY6WA-b2STEvmi_nH8c6SXm9rAhoFBySXzH5bZPuMR3ArottgGh73k7_dXj50/s1600/pumpkin+krispie+treats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBYBsaueNoTEIZdLwdcp06p4mgWIm7xVFkduRDCX4B8UyUrpWz2tWYJY6M-j2jt0FE3ijyhvIfkOvTRlAY6WA-b2STEvmi_nH8c6SXm9rAhoFBySXzH5bZPuMR3ArottgGh73k7_dXj50/s640/pumpkin+krispie+treats.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pumpkin Krispie Treats! Amazing. You can find Aimee's recipe <a href="http://www.shugarysweets.com/2012/10/pumpkin-spice-rice-krispie-treats" target="_blank">HERE</a>. I followed her recipe to the T and they turned out great. Frosting a krispie treat? Why didn't I think of that!</div>
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For the record, Izzy likes pumpkin too. Just plain pumpkin puree. According to the internet, pumpkin is good for dogs. And you have to believe everything you read on the internet. She is also very helpful when I'm taking photos of food. She's willing to clean anything up that might spill. She keeps a very watchful eye, so helpful of her.</div>
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And because I'm an addict, please share with me your favorite pumpkin recipes. I'll pin away, hoarding recipes of delicious pumpkin treats! If you are in the mood for a <a href="http://tastysweetcupcakes.blogspot.com/2012/10/pumpkin-cupcakes.html" target="_blank">pumpkin cupcake</a>, I posted a great recipe earlier this month. As pictured, it is great served with pumpkin beer! No, I'm not hoarding any seasonal beer....but I'm off to the grocery store, you never know when they'll run out!</div>
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Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-83011436962668392162012-10-21T12:22:00.000-05:002012-10-24T11:11:33.395-05:00Caramel Apple Crisp CupcakesOh friends, do I have special treat for you today. The idea for some sort of apple cupcakes actually started in May when I found cute mini bushel baskets at a yard sale. A dozen of them to be exact and I knew then they would be perfect to hold cupcakes to make a "wow" presentation. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my new mini bushel baskets, man bait apple crisp, and little bits of heaven</td></tr>
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So add the presentation idea to my love of apple crisp and the little bits of heaven I found in the grocery store by Kraft, Caramel Bits. They are sold along with those annoying square caramels where you have to unwrap each one individually. When I saw these bits, I knew they'd be perfect for adding some caramel-y goodness to some cupcakes.</div>
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This weekend was finally the time I got to put all of these together. I like baking days like this too, where it all just seems to come together perfectly. It may have helped that I had some great company in the kitchen too. My Mom was there to offer her baking hints and a helping hand. My sister Shari and her friend Karie were working on crafts at the kitchen table and made for great company. </div>
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These cupcakes are just too good for me not to share the recipe with you. The time and steps put into topping these cupcakes is what really makes them come together. As a special bonus, this is a cheater recipe, starting with a box cake mix instead of working from scratch. Yes, it is o.k. to do that from time to time. If you recall, I did this once before while making my<a href="http://tastysweetcupcakes.blogspot.com/2012/07/blue-raspberry-beach-cupcakes.html" target="_blank"> Blue Raspberry Beach Cupcakes.</a> Again, more time was needed for the toppings, so it was nice having a short cut in the recipe.</div>
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<strong><em><u><span style="color: red;">Caramel Apple Crisp Cupcakes</span></u></em></strong></div>
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<span style="color: black;">1 box spice cake mix</span></div>
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3 eggs</div>
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1/2 cup vegetable oil</div>
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1 cup milk</div>
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3 apples (peeled, cored and chopped into small pieces)</div>
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1/2 recipe crisp topping, unbaked (see below)</div>
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<em><strong>To make cupcakes:</strong></em></div>
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Pre-heat oven to 350. Prepare baking cups (I made 16 jumbo cupcakes). Blend cake mix, eggs, oil and milk until well combined, using hand mixer or in stand mixer. Using spatula, fold in apple pieces. Divide batter evenly, filling cups about half full. Sprinkle half of unbaked crisp topping mixture on each of the cups. Bake approx. 25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. </div>
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<span style="color: red;"><u><em><strong>Caramel Buttercream (from </strong></em></u></span><a href="http://www.wilton.com/recipe/Caramel-Buttercream-Icing" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;"><em><strong>Wilton</strong></em></span></a><span style="color: red;"><u><em><strong>)</strong></em></u></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">1/3 cup vegetable shortening</span></div>
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1/3 cup butter</div>
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2/3 cup caramel ice cream topping</div>
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1 tsp. vanilla</div>
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4 cups confectioner's sugar</div>
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<em><strong>To make buttercream:</strong></em></div>
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Blend shortening and butter in stand mixer until creamy. Add caramel ice cream topping and vanilla. Gradually add confectioner's sugar until blended, scrape sides and bottom of bowl often. Add milk (2-4 Tbs.) and mix until smooth.</div>
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<span style="color: red;"><u><em><strong>Crisp Topping</strong></em></u></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">1/2 cup butter, soft</span></div>
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3/4 cup brown sugar</div>
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3/4 cup oats</div>
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2 Tbs. flour</div>
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3/4 caramel bits</div>
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<em><strong>To make crisp topping:</strong></em></div>
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With a fork, blend all ingredients in a small bowl. Mix well while still leaving some large clumps. Divide mixture in half. Use half above, baking with the cupcake batter. Spread the second half on parchment lined baking sheet. Bake 10 to 15 minutes at 350. Stir a couple times in between baking to redistribute ingredients. Mixture may melt flat to one large piece. Let cool. When cool, break into smaller pieces.</div>
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Now it's time to assemble these beauties! When cupcakes are cool, pipe the center of the cupcake with caramel buttercream. Sprinkle each cupcakes with small pieces of crisp topping. If you have left over caramel ice cream topping from the buttercream recipe, drizzle each cupcake with caramel. </div>
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A few items to note about these cupcakes. One: I don't have a favorite apple I use while baking. In fact I had a variety bag of 4 or 5 different kinds of apples from the orchard so I'm not even sure what kind I used while making these cupcakes. Two: I used jumbo cupcake papers because I knew that size would best fit the mini bushel baskets I wanted to serve them in. If using regular size, baking time will need to be adjusted. Three: I questioned making the crisp topping. It appears it isn't going to work and just be a melty mess. Don't worry and don't skip this step, it is so yummy! Four: With these cupcakes being jumbo size and being so soft with the apples inside, they require a fork. Not an eat right out of the wrapper kind of cupcake.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-Vkf-RLLRmapbQvZ9c0yaiqmVgs_KxL_huyxks3r_UEr5UMqZPP90WjNgaRQhYGKZzE1mitjb4ikJlG0h6EWgaTidnErgduIStr7HKPCsvnb_fSLCdC-USuvOQfvx8FP6PFKwyyhEHs/s1600/applecupcakes3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj-Vkf-RLLRmapbQvZ9c0yaiqmVgs_KxL_huyxks3r_UEr5UMqZPP90WjNgaRQhYGKZzE1mitjb4ikJlG0h6EWgaTidnErgduIStr7HKPCsvnb_fSLCdC-USuvOQfvx8FP6PFKwyyhEHs/s640/applecupcakes3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This may be one of my favorite cupcakes I have ever made. Because they were so yummy, most of the batch was delivered promptly to some co-workers. Out of sight, out of my belly!</div>
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It was the perfect desert to top a wonderful fall day. It was beautiful outside, so nice we even had the patio door open with a crisp fall breeze coming in. We also had a campfire going outside to make our dinner, getting in one last pudgie pie in for the season! And by "we" I mean my Dad and brother-in-law, they were in charge of the fire and cooking dinner. They were also my set/lighting crew while taking photos. The best parts were the laughs shared over the afternoon. Many laughs coming from my sister reading posts from <a href="http://thebloggess.com/" target="_blank">The Bloggess</a> out loud. Hopefully Mom made note that Shari and I both have giant metal chickens on our Christmas lists! If you don't know what I'm talking about, read this post, <a href="http://thebloggess.com/2011/06/and-thats-why-you-should-learn-to-pick-your-battles/" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BHHGFzP8jHwIXN7E-LAvAWWknbB5iX6RnVd_YUjvpSRQ7DbGnaqczQVqANc79GNNMI9VkO3haHmN7hkmPLaA3qiDJVAzwlCV1eQH6upl4VQzp_QmmMZ1iEmrOdau79PykKYCxH6qE3I/s1600/snowmanhead.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1BHHGFzP8jHwIXN7E-LAvAWWknbB5iX6RnVd_YUjvpSRQ7DbGnaqczQVqANc79GNNMI9VkO3haHmN7hkmPLaA3qiDJVAzwlCV1eQH6upl4VQzp_QmmMZ1iEmrOdau79PykKYCxH6qE3I/s320/snowmanhead.jpg" width="297" /></a>Oh, Shari and Karie had a successful crafting day too. I even modeled one of their masterpieces. I may make this my Christmas card. There may also be a shot of me waving with less fingers...but I was smiling the whole time! No really, I found myself smiling for the photo....why? I have no idea! Later on, this picture reminded me of the Friends episode where Monica put the turkey on her head to cheer Chandler up. Kind of like a giant metal chicken on your friend's porch could cheer them up. (see Bloggess post if you haven't yet!) Yeah, that's the kind of friend I am. </div>
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Sharing this post with <a href="http://pamelasheavenlytreats.blogspot.com/2012/10/heavenly-treats-sunday-link-party-22.html" target="_blank">Pamela's Heavenly Treats</a>, <a href="http://www.crumbsandchaos.net/2012/10/seasonal-inspiration-10-20-12/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed: CrumbsAndChaos (Crumbs and Chaos)" target="_blank">Crumbs and Chaos</a>, <a href="http://www.thisgalcooks.com/2012/10/marvelous-mondays-link-party-17.html" target="_blank">This Gal Cooks</a>, </div>
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<a href="http://www.crazyforcrust.com/2012/10/crazy-sweet-tuesday-8/" target="_blank">Crazy For Crust</a>, <a href="http://mandysrecipebox.blogspot.com/2012/10/totally-tasty-tuesdays_23.html" target="_blank">Mandy's Recipe Box</a>, <a href="http://www.chef-in-training.com/2012/10/tuesday-talent-show-59/" target="_blank">Chef In Training</a>, <a href="http://djssugarshack.com/wordpress1/whatcha-whipped-up-20/" target="_blank">DJs Sugar Shack</a>, and <a href="http://lilluna.com/lil-luna-link-party-100/" target="_blank">Lil' Luna</a>.</div>
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Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-71690962274150352202012-10-18T22:47:00.000-05:002012-10-19T10:55:26.323-05:00DIY TV StandOver a year ago I bought myself a new TV. Prior to my fancy 32" (huge, I know!) flat TV, I had a beast of a box style TV bought years ago when I got my first apartment. The TV worked just fine and I really hated getting rid of it. My sensible (cheap) side didn't see the need to replace something that worked just fine. My non-sensible side wanted a new TV. I decided to put the beast box into my Mom's rummage sale. If it sold, I'd buy and new TV and as a bonus I'd have some extra money from the rummage sale to help make that purchase. It sold, I got a new TV. but....<br />
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Ever since I brought the new flat TV home, I've been on the search for an equally sleek stand of sorts to put it on. Again, another expense my frugal (cheap) side didn't want to have. Everything I found and liked, was just out of my price range. Fast forward to this last May and my Mom was once again having a rummage sale. My friend Lori added some items to the sale including an old bookshelf with a mere $2 price tag.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnx_x4W6toyRaQ4VgJkY_CMYh9YDxmHAkVcabHVDpHARS5n5OM6_NAwKlWLCnEJwbCUaw2RmqqHgm8lEwqCP1rDpHUwJR3YCBOe0XDEpFZwzICOY6uSbIAyN2teXv3J4vQj-OPUqiPoY/s1600/tvstand1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOnx_x4W6toyRaQ4VgJkY_CMYh9YDxmHAkVcabHVDpHARS5n5OM6_NAwKlWLCnEJwbCUaw2RmqqHgm8lEwqCP1rDpHUwJR3YCBOe0XDEpFZwzICOY6uSbIAyN2teXv3J4vQj-OPUqiPoY/s400/tvstand1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The shape and size was perfect for a TV stand. It just needed a little work. I scooped it up on rummage sale day 2....and then let it sit in my Dad's garage for a few months. I needed to think of the perfect plan to make it into just what I needed. Last month my vision became a reality. I (with my Dad's help) created the perfect TV stand and on my frugal (cheap) budget.</div>
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First step was to remove the shelf and cut a hole in the back, big enough to fit my components/cords.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXfgfsvt_AEHGMlR7V-0-uNvk37HsG7n2TkI2BV4gisglL3VbmNLffiec0ErkhxKVXk2kK2ajDo55p9xPGJvKsUVtsxGKIQ85BS3biJzDT6doeakaxiCSxa0yVWDDlx_Q-8KRXlQOkT0/s1600/tvstand2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXfgfsvt_AEHGMlR7V-0-uNvk37HsG7n2TkI2BV4gisglL3VbmNLffiec0ErkhxKVXk2kK2ajDo55p9xPGJvKsUVtsxGKIQ85BS3biJzDT6doeakaxiCSxa0yVWDDlx_Q-8KRXlQOkT0/s400/tvstand2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Then came painting and creating a background. The idea of doing something decorative on the back was so I wouldn't stack junk on the bottom shelf. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjak3IWn1QYudO_K4HxFNCDUfob2XZEL2VCSyDiJNxlURhZfNjx9bNJUitI7jVfcEpWHalsBuiJL_PMHKz7ACElKKdI4c5vhCBSZgNp3Mm56gwjdRilbhmaDg3b62pqrKwfXj2Ge-g6B38/s1600/tvstand4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjak3IWn1QYudO_K4HxFNCDUfob2XZEL2VCSyDiJNxlURhZfNjx9bNJUitI7jVfcEpWHalsBuiJL_PMHKz7ACElKKdI4c5vhCBSZgNp3Mm56gwjdRilbhmaDg3b62pqrKwfXj2Ge-g6B38/s640/tvstand4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I even had my guard dog there to make sure DIY thieves didn't attempt to steal anything. She was clinging and needed to be touching my foot most of the time while I was working. Silly puppy.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzsnDhHk6j3YCn22xYXznLUkWS9vHcbV5molTiw_XzB7tRii_N8k-Gq_-PHoypQMVpSHl2iRA0o6VPi2BuVInHFAuvKk0IVZKzvsHvAAj_gYW8paRDGr1c90qWuBvq4Yi5f7TdJimoSc/s1600/tvstand5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgzsnDhHk6j3YCn22xYXznLUkWS9vHcbV5molTiw_XzB7tRii_N8k-Gq_-PHoypQMVpSHl2iRA0o6VPi2BuVInHFAuvKk0IVZKzvsHvAAj_gYW8paRDGr1c90qWuBvq4Yi5f7TdJimoSc/s640/tvstand5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The background was created with <a href="http://www.mymindseye.com/LF2/013Love.asp" target="_blank">scrapbook paper</a> from My Mind's Eye and Mod Podge. The paint color I picked was <a href="http://www.dutchboy.com/colors/families/neutrals/versatile/index.jsp" target="_blank">Dutch Boy Colonial Cobblestone</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupjHMfvxBmcPbhvqjuLYNZxY_Fd-yJp7rp3tl3TRbrY3LhXVy4KIoxB5Cmvri2byVhnLDBcnRKu6al8WcL0yda2-vIVt5Fk9A-wHfB16qe-EXdNlG8oQmd9hgR9m4RjRvtRwSO5FFHTo/s1600/tvstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupjHMfvxBmcPbhvqjuLYNZxY_Fd-yJp7rp3tl3TRbrY3LhXVy4KIoxB5Cmvri2byVhnLDBcnRKu6al8WcL0yda2-vIVt5Fk9A-wHfB16qe-EXdNlG8oQmd9hgR9m4RjRvtRwSO5FFHTo/s640/tvstand.jpg" width="482" /></a></div>
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I absolutely love the finished TV stand. I just need to fix the cords so they are not in view from the front. It fits my small room perfectly and you can't beat the price either! New TV stand for under 20 bucks? How many people can say that? </div>
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Sharing with <a href="http://simplydesigning.blogspot.com/2012/10/simply-link-party_18.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+SimplyDesigning-HomeFloralSeasonalCraftsDesigns+%28Simply+Designing+with+Ashley+Phipps%29" target="_blank">Simply Designing,</a> <a href="http://www.jenniferrizzo.com/2012/10/fabulously-creative-friday_18.html" target="_blank">Jennifer Rizzo,</a> <a href="http://www.happyhourprojects.com/2012/10/happy-hour-friday-1019.html" target="_blank">Happy Hour Projects</a>, and <a href="http://madeinaday.com/2012/10/18/made-u-look-linky-46-2/" target="_blank">Made In A Day</a>.</div>
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Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-78393361086046202012-10-12T11:33:00.000-05:002012-10-13T11:08:26.103-05:00Pumpkin CupcakesOn Monday I shared my <a href="http://tastysweetcupcakes.blogspot.com/2012/10/my-thoughts-on-friendship.html" target="_blank">thoughts on long distance friendships</a>. Now here is the glue that holds that friendship together...cupcakes! Not really but they do help. Pumpkin flavored cupcakes was the request of my friend Kellie. Now, most pumpkin cupcake recipes I found were topped with cream cheese frosting. I knew Kellie would refuse to put her lips anywhere near anything topped with cream cheese so I searched and searched until I found a great recipe, minus the cream cheese frosting. Oh, but this recipe called for espresso, they were actually pumpkin spice latte cupcakes, every one's favorite seasonal Starbucks treat! We ended up making just pumpkin without the latte part but they were still very delicious. The recipe had a link back to original pumpkin with a little more spice to replace the espresso.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4F1XR5e6sdTFAe7eYchj0tVL2KrEZSrGC_na2QbHrIb5djyG7l7hcJl-x0N-B5DjdRitKYg8jxYSRoGi8elca3_8q3yJN48pZGti_RhzY8egzfU6VLumHBRQJv1NDnQ_Q4c_6EGym4EA/s1600/pumpkin+cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4F1XR5e6sdTFAe7eYchj0tVL2KrEZSrGC_na2QbHrIb5djyG7l7hcJl-x0N-B5DjdRitKYg8jxYSRoGi8elca3_8q3yJN48pZGti_RhzY8egzfU6VLumHBRQJv1NDnQ_Q4c_6EGym4EA/s640/pumpkin+cupcakes.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">yeah, we even paired them with some pumpkin beer!<br />
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<strong><u>Pumpkin Cupcakes</u> (<em><a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/2011/09/06/pumpkin-spice-latte-cupcakes/" target="_blank">from Annie's Eats</a></em>)</strong><br />
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<strong>For the cupcakes:</strong><br />
2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour<br />
3 tsp. baking soda<br />
2 tsp. baking powder<br />
2 tsp. cinnamon<br />
1/4 tsp. nutmeg<br />
1/4 tsp. cloves<br />
1 tsp. salt<br />
1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin puree<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
1 cup canola or vegetable oil<br />
4 large eggs<br />
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Preheat the oven to 350. Line cupcake pan with paper liners (makes 24). In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and salt. In the bowl of an electric mixer, blend together the pumpkin, both sugars and oil. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture in two additions, mixing just until incorporated. <br />
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Fill the cupcake liners about 3/4 full. Bake until the cupcakes are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 18-20 minutes. Let cool before frosting.<br />
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<strong>For the frosting:</strong><br />
2 1/4 cups heavy cream, chilled<br />
1/4 cup confectioners' sugar<br />
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Place the heavy cream in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Whip on medium-low speed at first, gradually increasing to high speed. Blend in confectioners' sugar gradually. Whip until stiff peaks form, being careful not to over-beat.<br />
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<strong>For cream cheese frosting:</strong><br />
8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature<br />
6 Tbs. unsalted butter, room temperature<br />
4 cups confectioners' sugar<br />
2 1/4 tsp. vanilla<br />
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In an electric mixer, beat cream cheese and butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add confectioners' sugar to butter/cream cheese mixture on low until it begins to incorporate. Add vanilla and beat on medium to high speed until fully incorporated.<br />
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Pipe frosting onto cupcakes. In this case I was lacking my usual supplies so we used a Ziploc bag with the corner cut off. Work with what you have. We used this whipped cream frosting for only half of the cupcakes. The other half we frosted with cream cheese frosting, most everyone loves cream cheese frosting. We couldn't <em>not</em> do some with cream cheese frosting. Sprinkle frosted cupcake with cinnamon and you are finished. A great fall treat that everyone will enjoy, as long as you have frosting options to please all :)<br />
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I have a few more pumpkin treats I've been finding, pinning and making. Look for those next week. So if you don't like pumpkin, don't read my blog next week but you might miss out on cute pictures like this...<br />
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So I guess you better come back. How could you not love that sad pitiful face? She really isn't a fan of wearing clothes but I could not pass up this shirt at Target. I'm a big football fan so this can work as her Halloween costume and her jersey for cheering on the Packers! </div>
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Sharing this post at <a href="http://pamelasheavenlytreats.blogspot.com/2012/10/heavenly-treats-link-party-21.html" target="_blank">Heavenly Treats Sunday</a>, <a href="http://www.serenitynowblog.com/2012/10/weekend-bloggy-reading-link-up_12.html" target="_blank">Serenity Now</a>, and <a href="http://www.crumbsandchaos.net/2012/10/seasonal-inspiration-10-13-12/" target="_blank">Crumbs and Chaos</a>.</div>
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<br />Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-45207004958775850772012-10-08T13:47:00.000-05:002012-10-09T10:29:10.957-05:00My Thoughts On FriendshipWhat do you get when you combine cupcakes, beer, and fire? An awesome weekend, that's what!<br />
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Back up 8 or so years ago when some dear friends (hi Chad and Kellie! this post is about you!) moved 200 miles away, leaving Wisconsin for the suburbs of Chicago. I've always had local friends, no one lives too far away, so a long distance friendship was new to me. I still remember one of the last weekends Kellie was in town, going to see "13 going on 30" in the theater. I remember crying. I remember thinking, "will we <em>really</em> keep in touch?".<br />
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We have! If distance is a true test of friendship, we passed that test.<br />
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We text. We call. We plan visits when we can. <br />
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Fast forward to present time (now if this was a movie, that last bit would have been a wonderful montage of photos and a really sappy song) and Kellie called to say she was having a s'mores party. I was more than happy to drive 7 hours in just two days to spend time with them. Our weekend visits tend to revolve around much laughter and that type of weekend was exactly what I was in need of, much needed! I've also met some wonderful ladies through Kellie over the last few years and was excited to see them again too. I also got to meet those ladies' better halves and some new friends too including a furry friend, Elinor!<br />
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So we got beverages.....<br />
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made some pumpkin cupcakes....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDDnfIQKMUSl9Cl49MEggWsloqZcqdqPVLsv5wJP05NhI1HD5ZB3PLKD4Zoe58EfNajJ8hO8NY0k0GP_HLVFqOiefKFzxWpY5iMKhrG7gOFHb673x_fUf7HifZh1HPX_yzgey73nL-Hcc/s1600/pumpkin+cupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDDnfIQKMUSl9Cl49MEggWsloqZcqdqPVLsv5wJP05NhI1HD5ZB3PLKD4Zoe58EfNajJ8hO8NY0k0GP_HLVFqOiefKFzxWpY5iMKhrG7gOFHb673x_fUf7HifZh1HPX_yzgey73nL-Hcc/s640/pumpkin+cupcakes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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roasted marshmallows and wieners over the fire....</div>
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enjoyed said beverages around said fire....<br />
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Another all around awesome weekend with awesome friends. I wish I had a photo of the left over hot dog breakfast but you get the idea. I have awesome friends. You are most likely jealous and you should be. We ended with a quick trip to Ikea and I was on my way back home. It's always hard to leave after such short visits but knowing we've stayed in touch after this long, I'm confident we will stay in touch for many more years to come. Every March I look forward to Kellie's Birthday visit which may be the next visit if neither of us make the trip over winter. This is where I wish my writing wasn't so sucky so I could more eloquently explain how much Chad and Kellie's friendship means to me no matter the distance. "They served me hot dogs for breakfast" really doesn't do the friendship justice, right? Love you guys! Be on the lookout for zombies, they are everywhere this time of year ;)</div>
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This post ended up being longer than I thought, so I'll share the Pumpkin Cupcake recipe I used later this week. </div>
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Who else loves a campfire in the fall? Any long distance friendships you couldn't imagine your life without?</div>
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<br />Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-12183989279348786942012-10-04T00:18:00.000-05:002012-10-09T01:05:55.557-05:00Surprise Ingredient Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgodsP2mi8w32mPFR7tUuvX7GK07oQOMHJwkkHSSDkssl0cFmaDE14EWOp7Ywa1RkzBnM81l1D45DNjjYdMXkdIZaAarzpADAD1_riyiMngEBNkYwP23CXNYMl5sXXOVeQcouZ617JcHeg/s1600/beetcupcake.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgodsP2mi8w32mPFR7tUuvX7GK07oQOMHJwkkHSSDkssl0cFmaDE14EWOp7Ywa1RkzBnM81l1D45DNjjYdMXkdIZaAarzpADAD1_riyiMngEBNkYwP23CXNYMl5sXXOVeQcouZ617JcHeg/s640/beetcupcake.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm baaaaaack! I got a bit behind on my posts but I have a few new things to share with you. Today's recipe has a surprise ingredient. You know, they make whole cookbooks dedicated to sneaking healthy ingredients into foods, especially for kids. I'm not a mom so I can't say whether I would trick my kids into eating vegetables or not but it was fun presenting these cupcakes to people and then letting them know they contained a vegetable. Not a tasty vegetable either.<br />
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This here is probably the last time I fully enjoyed this vegetable as a delicious meal.<br />
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Yep, that's me, "after a good meal of beets!", my Mom wrote on the picture. I do look like I enjoyed them. Beets, not hidden in anything just straight up beets. (On a side note can we discuss how my parents embraced the 70's with that wallpaper, wowza!) Now don't get me wrong, I'm not a picky eater. I eat all sorts of vegetables. I just don't crave beets nor are they high up on my list of must haves. </div>
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So when my Mom found a recipe for beet cupcakes, I wasn't jumping for joy but was curious to see how they would turn out. Turns out, they are pretty tasty. I made a batch and shared them with various people. I couldn't not say anything so I did let each person know that the cupcakes had a mystery ingredient. Not one person guessed beets. So if you really want to sneak vegetables into cupcakes without anyone knowing, this is the recipe for you.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u>Chocolate Beet Cupcakes</u></i></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> (originally published in the Chicago
Tribune)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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3
to 4 small red beets, trimmed<o:p></o:p></div>
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1
cup flour<o:p></o:p></div>
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1
tsp. baking soda<o:p></o:p></div>
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½
tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></div>
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½
cup unsalted butter<o:p></o:p></div>
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1
cup sugar<o:p></o:p></div>
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2
eggs<o:p></o:p></div>
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1
tsp. vanilla<o:p></o:p></div>
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2
oz. bittersweet chocolate, melted<o:p></o:p></div>
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confectioners’
sugar<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Place
the beets in a saucepan, add water to cover; heat to a boil over high
heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reduce heat to a simmer; cook
until tender, about 35 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Drain;
cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Grate on the large holes of a box
grater.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Heat
the oven to 350.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Line 18 muffin cups
with paper liners.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Combine
flour, baking soda and salt in a bowl.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Beat the butter and sugar in a separate bowl until light and
fluffy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beat in the eggs and vanilla.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add the beets; beat until smooth and an
evenly bright magenta.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beat in the
melted chocolate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gradually add the
flour mixture; mix until fully combined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Spoon into muffin cups.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bake,
20-25 minutes; cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dust the tops with
confectioners’ sugar.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Nutrition information per
serving:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>144 calories, 7 g fat, 37 mg
cholesterol, 19 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein, 154 mg sodium, 1 g fiber.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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There you have it, vegetables hidden in your cupcakes. These also don't have the normal tall swirl of frosting I like to put on my cupcakes, so that makes them a bit healthier for you too. Bonus! </div>
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Anyone a fan of beets? Or would you prefer them hidden in chocolate cupcakes? Do tell!</div>
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Sharing this post at <a href="http://www.somethingswanky.com/2012/10/sweet-treats-and-swanky-stuff-thursday.html" target="_blank">Sweet Treats and Swanky Stuf Thursday</a>, <a href="http://www.insidebrucrewlife.com/2012/10/trick-or-treat-tuesday.html" target="_blank">Trick or Treat Tuesday</a>,</div>
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<a href="http://www.itsoverflowing.com/2012/10/overflowing-with-creativity-22/" target="_blank">It's Overflowing</a>, <a href="http://pamelasheavenlytreats.blogspot.com/2012/10/heavenly-treats-sunday-link-party-20.html" target="_blank">Pamela's Heavenly Treats</a>, and <a href="http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2012/10/linky_party_108/" target="_blank">Thirty Handmade Days</a>.</div>
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Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-65372285931774348872012-09-16T09:08:00.001-05:002012-10-11T16:27:53.531-05:00Apple Crisp (Sundays With Joy)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This week's Sundays With Joy recipe could be used to snag yourself a mate......or do like I do and eat half the pan yourself. Yep, I did. I love apple crisp, it is one of my favorite things to make in fall. <br />
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I'm not picky about apples either. This time I used a mixture of gala and honey crisp, fresh from a local orchard. Both delicious, mix with cinnamon and load up with a crunchy streusel....delicious to the max! <br />
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Another successful recipe from the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Baker-Cookbook-Comforting-Recipes/dp/1401310605/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1347773348&sr=8-1&keywords=joy+the+baker" target="_blank">Joy The Baker Cookbook, 100 Simple and Comforting Recipes</a>.<br />
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Oh, and see that cute owl mug in the picture, that was sent to me from <a href="http://www.danaraeb.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Dana Rae</a> as part of a mug swap hosted by <a href="http://www.acuppakim.com/" target="_blank">A Cuppa Kim</a>. You can check out the recap and links of those participating <a href="http://www.acuppakim.com/2012/09/a-cuppa-kims-second-annual-mug-swap.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <br />
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My mug came with a great bag of coffee too! I've used this mug several times already, I just love it! And it makes a great prop for these photos :)</div>
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O.K. back to apple crisp. Now I know what you are thinking, where is the ice cream on top? Yes, warm apple crisp is best served with ice cream. I skipped it this time, so sue me! It was still fantastic.</div>
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I did attempt to serve it with a warm dulce de leche sauce....then I burnt it, so it was skipped too. I think it was God's way of telling me to leave well enough alone. Ever need those moments? I do, just a gentle reminder to enjoy what you have and stop trying to make it perfect. Message received! </div>
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So I skipped the ice cream or any other topping choice and I skipped the man baiting, oh well. Maybe next time. I'll be making another trip to the same orchard for some pumpkins, I guess I'll HAVE to get some more apples too!</div>
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Check out other apple crisp posts from my Sundays With Joy group on <a href="http://www.bakeaholicmama.com/2012/09/man-bait-apple-crisp.html" target="_blank">Bakeaholic Mama</a>. </div>
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Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-19528783824819429962012-09-14T13:57:00.001-05:002012-09-14T13:57:59.919-05:00Happy Friday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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No real blog post today....just this picture....because it's true. </div>
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I hope you all have a lovely weekend. And if it involves a 4-legged furry friend, even better!</div>
Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-71659029833847615482012-09-12T23:07:00.002-05:002012-09-12T23:41:46.532-05:00Oh, To Be A Kid Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh hey, just hangin' with my friend Mickey, no biggie. Family trip to Disneyland in 1985, one of my favorite childhood memories. My parents were <strike>crazy</strike> kind enough to drive from Wisconsin to California (and back!). What an adventure!<br />
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Last week I had the honor of making cupcakes for two little girl's birthdays. One had a Mickey and Minnie theme, the other was a Dorothy's Ruby Red Slipper theme. <br />
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It got me thinking about the days of a cartoon character being the biggest star you could dream of meeting. I was lucky enough to meet Mickey and many other characters at Disneyland. Oh to be young, naive, and thinking this is the ONE and ONLY Mickey in the whole world!<br />
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I also remember watching The Wizard Of Oz for the first time. It was probably around the same time of meeting Mickey. I remember it being on TV every year. It was magical each and every time. Oh to be young, naive, and thinking you had to just click your heels to return everything back to normal. <br />
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I'm fairly new to decorating cupcakes with any sort of theme or characters. I just knew I wanted to create the magic I remember as a kid. First up were Mickey and Minnie.<br />
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They each had a set of chocolate ears as the main topper. For Mickey, I did smooth red frosting to look like Mickey's pants, complete with yellow buttons (sixlet candies!). Minnie's frosting was pink and swirled to look more like a dress, complete with candy white polka dots and even a pink shimmering candy bow.</div>
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Next I had to make Dorothy's Ruby Red Slipper theme come to life. </div>
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On half of the cupcakes I covered the frosting in red sugar and then topped them with a shoe made of <a href="http://tastysweetcupcakes.blogspot.com/2012/07/blue-raspberry-beach-cupcakes.html" target="_blank">candy clay</a>. I was lucky to find a small shoe cookie cutter, it made mass producing shoes much easier. To make them sparkle I added a little pearl dust and disco dust. The other half of the cupcakes had a sparkly Emerald City made from melted green Candy Melts, a candy clay yellow brick road, and words written with melted white Candy Melts. Together the cupcakes declared, "There Is No Place Like Home". <br />
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All of these cupcakes were so much fun to make. I was having so much fun that I really didn't take a lot of pictures. I really just was so excited to get them delivered to each of the birthday girls. <br />
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The night I was finishing up the Ruby Red Slipper cupcakes, I had myself a bit of an "Aha! Moment". I had just finished a 12 hour shift at my "real" job and was up until 2 AM decorating cupcakes. I should have been exhausted but I wasn't. I was so in my zone, doing what I love that the thought of being tired never crossed my mind. I really love making cupcakes!<br />
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Though the thought of one day owning my own cupcake shop would be amazing, I think I will enjoy the here and now. Staying up late at night working in my own kitchen to bring smiles and sugar to my friends and family. Working in small batches to add a personal touch to each and every one, that sounds perfect to me, magical even! I feel absolutely blessed to be where I am and doing what I do. <br />
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<br />Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-46589992424749550902012-09-11T14:23:00.001-05:002012-09-11T14:28:35.837-05:00Grilled Chili Cheese Fries (Sundays With Joy)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhraBujDNlBskN1XAEIJBC_jEDLnS6zBLagiLcSZMpXJXLyxiGwr9N5u3LZ51eIdkN8lC8gpDKKmMPQ_MV4xDYI-q3XW84VtEFmsUI67I2zJ-RaIsrLVjWumVPisaAX-aV2WHufW6S3wcE/s1600/fries3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhraBujDNlBskN1XAEIJBC_jEDLnS6zBLagiLcSZMpXJXLyxiGwr9N5u3LZ51eIdkN8lC8gpDKKmMPQ_MV4xDYI-q3XW84VtEFmsUI67I2zJ-RaIsrLVjWumVPisaAX-aV2WHufW6S3wcE/s640/fries3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Don't you just want to head face first into that plate of fries? No? Oh, it's not lady like? My bad!<br />
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Once again I'm trying out a recipe from Joy Wilson's cookbook, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Baker-Cookbook-Comforting-Recipes/dp/1401310605/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347389486&sr=1-1&keywords=joy+the+baker+cookbook+100+simple+and+comforting+recipes" target="_blank">Joy The Baker Cookbook 100 Simple and Comforting Recipes</a>. This recipe comes from Chapter 3 entitled "I need a hug or a brownie, maybe both". In other words, comfort foods. French fries wouldn't normally be my go to comfort food but enjoyed it just the same.<br />
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Joy's recipe calls for these to be baked but I decided to give the grill a try. My Dad had been asking if I had any request for a meal from the grill before summer was over. I've been craving steak for some reason. I don't normally eat steak, it's not something I order when I go out, so this craving kind of came out of left field. It did however make a wonderful partner for my plate of fries. <br />
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These "chili" cheese fries don't actually have chili on them but a wonderful mix of spices that worked out perfect. I made a few changes/additions to my liking though. I added peppers, onions, garlic and bacon bits to the potatoes. With the spices I used Mrs Dash steak grilling blend, a nice salt free option so I could control the amount of salt I added. I also decided to try liquid smoke for the first time. I love the smokey flavor it added, it definitely lives up to it's name!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrYBttBsudpRSEYaAqM9I3Q5JHxLgCQ5Bb8zcQIuJCG5V3T5sqgZcgjKqsbmGrfJvN2aljk8sEfR-y6XzMgos36za4uJcwWro3Fq647H-bsy7YS9vVn8iYFVOfXgbnrVIsFCSiqYGjDY/s1600/fries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrYBttBsudpRSEYaAqM9I3Q5JHxLgCQ5Bb8zcQIuJCG5V3T5sqgZcgjKqsbmGrfJvN2aljk8sEfR-y6XzMgos36za4uJcwWro3Fq647H-bsy7YS9vVn8iYFVOfXgbnrVIsFCSiqYGjDY/s400/fries.jpg" width="302" /></a>It's always fun experimenting with something new on the grill. We elevated a foiled covered cookie sheet to bake the fries on. Because opening the grill to check on the fries caused the heat to drop every time, it took a little bit longer than baking would have. I also forgot to spray the foil with any sort of cooking spray or oil so I did have a few stuck on fries. The rest turned out just fine, I was just sad to have lost a few to a silly mistake. Oh well, you live and learn! So a beer, a sunny evening, and a steak and fries dinner with my Dad. Turned out to be perfect! <br />
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Want to see some more versions of this recipe? Check out Bakeaholic Mama's post <a href="http://www.bakeaholicmama.com/2012/09/chili-and-cheese-oven-baked-potato-chips.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> with a few others that link up too! As luck would have it, Joy posted this recipe to her blog on Sunday too! Check it out on <a href="http://joythebaker.com/2012/09/baked-chili-cheese-fries/" target="_blank">Joy the Baker.</a> </div>
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I'd love to hear what comfort foods you all have? It's hard to pick one but meatloaf and mashed potatoes is mine. Oh but then there are cookies....or cupcakes?</div>
Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-39424992091109447822012-08-30T12:52:00.000-05:002012-08-30T12:55:22.259-05:00Muffins or Cupcakes?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This one day, I made muffins (gasp!). I didn't mean to, please don't be mad at me. I really wanted to make cupcakes but they just didn't taste like a cupcake. Also, I felt guilty adding frosting to something providing bit healthier ingredients (double gasp!). I really don't know what has gotten into me. <br />
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Here's the thing, I decided to try my first gluten free cupcake recipe. I received this <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gluten-Free-Cupcakes-Irresistible-Recipes-Coconut/dp/158761166X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1346345960&sr=1-1&keywords=gluten+free+cupcakes+by+elana+amsterdam" target="_blank">book</a> for Christmas last year and I just got around to giving one of the recipes a try. I've been asked about making cupcakes to conform to specific diets before. I really see it as a lot of pressure. Depending on the reason of the dietary needs, I could really make someone sick. Some people's bodies just don't process certain ingredients or in some cases with allergies, reject some ingredients all together. Talk about pressure. Still, I wanted to give gluten free baking a try. If nothing else, I now had a reason to buy arrowroot powder. I don't even know what arrowroot is but I guess I needed it's powder to bake these muffins.<br />
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I liked this cookbook because the author was first a cupcake lover. When she learned she had celiac disease she didn't stop loving cupcakes, she just created her own cupcake recipes to work around her own dietary needs. Cupcakes for the win!<br />
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I don't have any specific dietary needs (well other than coffee, a must have or I die!) I do need to change a few things though. I will never not indulge in a cupcake if put in front of me. I have this idea that everyone probably thinks I eat cupcakes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I don't. I wish I could but I don't. My biggest food trap is actually snacky type stuff like chips. Add guacamole and I'm in trouble. Now guacamole, that I have had for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I was in Mexico and it was fresh. And it was delicious. And I won't apologize for it.<br />
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So back to these <strike>cupcakes</strike> muffins. They just had a taste and texture that reminded me of a breakfast muffin more than a frosting topped cupcake. A suggestion from a friend after trying one was brilliant though. She suggested adding a cream cheese frosting. Now that might work. That might be quite delicious. For the time being, I'm enjoying the rest of this batch as a healthy breakfast option. I froze them and can just pop one out as needed. One little muffin defrosts quickly and it's just handy having stuff like that on hand. Not chips. Not guacamole.<br />
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I'm going to share the recipe with you but if you are a cupcake lover and are working with a gluten free diet, this is a great little cookbook! The author, Elana, also has a blog that I've added to my ever growing list of blogs to follow. Check out<a href="http://www.elanaspantry.com/" target="_blank"> Elana's Pantry</a>. She just posted a paleo chocolate frosting that looks divine!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Strawberry Cupcakes </u></strong></span><span style="font-size: small;">from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Gluten-Free-Cupcakes-Irresistible-Recipes-Coconut/dp/158761166X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1346345960&sr=1-1&keywords=gluten+free+cupcakes+by+elana+amsterdam" target="_blank">Gluten-Free Cupcakes by Elana Amsterdam</a></span><br />
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1/2 cup coconut flour<br />
1 Tbs. arrowroot powder<br />
1/4 tsp. sea salt<br />
1/2 tsp. baking soda<br />
4 large eggs<br />
1/2 cup agave nectar<br />
1 Tbs. vanilla extract<br />
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh strawberries<br />
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Preheat oven to 350. Line 8 muffin cups with paper liners. In a large bowl, combine the coconut flour, arrowroot powder, salt, and baking soda. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, agave nectar, and vanilla. Blend the wet ingredients into the coconut flour mixture with a handheld mixer until thoroughly combined, then fold in the strawberries. Scoop 1/4 cup of batter into each prepared cup. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.<br />
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Elana says to let cool in the pan for 1 hour then frost and serve. Frost if you want but these are good without. Is that what makes a muffin a cupcake? Frosting? Are muffins jealous of cupcakes? <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cupcakestakethecake.tumblr.com/post/28703083770/muffins-are-just-ugly-cupcakes-now-muffin-is-broke" target="_blank">Tumblr</a></td></tr>
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Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-87813908340908358592012-08-24T12:13:00.000-05:002012-08-24T12:13:31.285-05:00Favorite Things Friday {#4}It's been a while since I shared some of my favorite things, happenings, musings.....on a Friday....hence the name Favorite Things Friday! Aren't I clever? Yeah, I'm feeling a bit spunky today, maybe a little too much coffee this morning? Whatever the source of the spunk, I'll take it!<br />
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<strong>#1 Forgotten Photos</strong></div>
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O.K. so as a fairly new blogger, I've yet to really find my stride and plan ahead on blogging. I don't save posts months ahead of time or stock up for when I'm in a blogging funk or in need of a post. I did however find recently that I failed to share my first cupcake cake that I made back in APRIL...yes APRIL! Oops! So here is a look at a cross cake made out of cupcakes I did for a special First Communion. Carlie picked the flavor and I just went from there. It's not perfect by any means but it was fun to make.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVKgmRnJ-Wq_8dfpIHi_UeI3cAiWS5qZ6Wbgv_WHAfgi4-W9g4GGbDwuJihJGmKfE0K17iMWcZYv8zlLojYMJlEdSmwpipF60LJxTkDn3MSRPn9sghrLDCjzXFOe_-tMPGUEUodR4vi4/s1600/cross.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFVKgmRnJ-Wq_8dfpIHi_UeI3cAiWS5qZ6Wbgv_WHAfgi4-W9g4GGbDwuJihJGmKfE0K17iMWcZYv8zlLojYMJlEdSmwpipF60LJxTkDn3MSRPn9sghrLDCjzXFOe_-tMPGUEUodR4vi4/s640/cross.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong>#2 Funny Stuff</strong></div>
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There has been no shortage as of late of funny pictures floating around the internet. These eCards can pretty much make my whole day. One of my favorites last month was during the Olympics. I posted it on my facebook page but will share again here. It pretty much summed up my days as I sat in front of the TV watching superior athletes perform all while dreaming up new cupcake ideas. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRpdwuE4MOSudF19ArxpRjMcwU7VvSoNV7hXOYpV-hjZDLUvvFo7EZNHmtNJZeomq9z3Y2QOkaSw65x8BP3RZ54LNQLeBxsOWC3Y4k3F_mHDaeihvpKUdYmGtVffFfDsX90hpJ38yvh9M/s1600/funny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRpdwuE4MOSudF19ArxpRjMcwU7VvSoNV7hXOYpV-hjZDLUvvFo7EZNHmtNJZeomq9z3Y2QOkaSw65x8BP3RZ54LNQLeBxsOWC3Y4k3F_mHDaeihvpKUdYmGtVffFfDsX90hpJ38yvh9M/s400/funny.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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And another, just because I'm excited for the new season of "How I Met Your Mother". </div>
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Anyone else a Barney fan?</div>
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<strong>#3 Fall</strong></div>
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I'm not wishing summer away or anything, I'm just going to welcome fall with open arms. I very much enjoy that time of year when you are wearing jeans/sweatshirt but still can pull off flip flops. And seeing the changing colors of the leaves, beautiful! Oh and soups and apple picking.....I could go on and on. I have plans to make some soup soon using some veggies from my family's garden. Have you had the butternut squash soup at Atlanta Bread? Yeah, I want to make that but I'm pretty sure they don't go around giving out their recipes, so I'm going to have to experiment a little.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5xLOIYzE1HuoUgJ-5AjM1kv58KjPBGaD1bm-wSGGtFV7q40RLLsoNXdvLxmPeHlMFv4pGgpHsytIP9I-kMZJqKz7TCCMJPnS0gDCJh2sZ1N353TzMiq-Oescwc0_wiWwrbpERfiMEPM/s1600/veggies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI5xLOIYzE1HuoUgJ-5AjM1kv58KjPBGaD1bm-wSGGtFV7q40RLLsoNXdvLxmPeHlMFv4pGgpHsytIP9I-kMZJqKz7TCCMJPnS0gDCJh2sZ1N353TzMiq-Oescwc0_wiWwrbpERfiMEPM/s400/veggies.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A fall flashback from 15 to 20 years ago (oh hell now I feel old). My Dad and I took this little puddle jumper to check out the fall colors in our area.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ThYvs588mGhB2q51y8pN3K-Bq2nG6zox0w6JPFBuXY7mUqp1k0xMjw2rAzfmu2jTQY8KFo46240VybgJ3QMsSkTzuY6NhH7kuZ3rwa1VmjNHs-CVPA_AwISyyoMlfBaUItTB7QzfLYU/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ThYvs588mGhB2q51y8pN3K-Bq2nG6zox0w6JPFBuXY7mUqp1k0xMjw2rAzfmu2jTQY8KFo46240VybgJ3QMsSkTzuY6NhH7kuZ3rwa1VmjNHs-CVPA_AwISyyoMlfBaUItTB7QzfLYU/s400/001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong>#4 Football</strong></div>
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This could really fit into the fall category but I think it deserves one all by itself. Football is my favorite sport to watch. As luck would have it, I live in an area where folks worship the Green Bay Packers. I'm a fan, not a crazy, worship type fan but I have been known to make Packers cupcakes.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkA1mxRR4Vlab_-rh_GSkGtJ3lDdGYvdS0TAoCHLDiU-8ijAUH2R2KvDOm0ekaSc60vprmOmsceTjo0SDLWLV8mYASOLmwfitzQ9ZrEf1jhWPiKfwHm3ViEUWbwDtO5xVxfGkPRm5cCXk/s1600/packers+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkA1mxRR4Vlab_-rh_GSkGtJ3lDdGYvdS0TAoCHLDiU-8ijAUH2R2KvDOm0ekaSc60vprmOmsceTjo0SDLWLV8mYASOLmwfitzQ9ZrEf1jhWPiKfwHm3ViEUWbwDtO5xVxfGkPRm5cCXk/s400/packers+4.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
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I've also been known to make Izzy wear my Clay Matthews jersey. She didn't stand for it....no really, she refused to stand. I've learned my lesson, don't dress the dog!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9UuLd7wHMwOL5qngSdtMkkLU1Le5aev77nmeE8BX73u6xNZsUYOaxSKE9kQ-h8ChZfbuQzdUlCLunsoom6tScbGLu1IeuIPxeGVaXVlijM0_qNcQsH-OmCk705pitOIpkwhJiXYNobY/s1600/iz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj9UuLd7wHMwOL5qngSdtMkkLU1Le5aev77nmeE8BX73u6xNZsUYOaxSKE9kQ-h8ChZfbuQzdUlCLunsoom6tScbGLu1IeuIPxeGVaXVlijM0_qNcQsH-OmCk705pitOIpkwhJiXYNobY/s400/iz.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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There you have it, some of my favorite things narrowed down to 4 simple things. It's amazing how cupcakes can always fit into my favorites. The really are my all time FAVORITE! They are the reason I started this blog and they just make me happy! Tell me your fall, football or food favorites as of late! Also, if anyone has a good soup recipe, please share! </div>
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If you missed previous Favorite Things Friday posts, here are<a href="http://tastysweetcupcakes.blogspot.com/2012/04/favorite-things-friday-1.html" target="_blank"> #1</a>, <a href="http://tastysweetcupcakes.blogspot.com/2012/05/favorite-things-friday-2.html" target="_blank">#2</a> and<a href="http://tastysweetcupcakes.blogspot.com/2012/07/favorite-things-friday-3.html" target="_blank"> #3</a>. Enjoy!</div>
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Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-4432843601316809122012-08-21T14:32:00.000-05:002012-10-11T11:01:34.893-05:00Have Cupcakes Will TravelLast week I traveled to Dubuque, IA to surprise my friend Alicia for her birthday. When we first decided to plan this surprise, I knew I wanted to bake cupcakes for this special occasion. When I asked Alicia's husband what flavor I should make, he said something with Andes Mints. I pages through a few cookbooks but didn't find anything that jumped out at me. Then I remembered the <a href="http://www.cupcakevodka.com/delicious-flavors/devils-food" target="_blank">Devil's Food Cupcake Vodka</a> I had bought but have yet to really experiment with. I knew the addition of this would be a great way to help a friend celebrate her {30th} birthday! I decided to just head into the kitchen and experiment. I was very happy that my first batch turned out tasty and perfect, I didn't have to change a thing. The hardest part of this recipe was figuring out what to call these cupcakes. My sister came up with, "The Devil Made Me Do It, Mint". I loved that but wanted something just a tad shorter, I settled on Devil Mint Cupcakes. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewlLMSP6G1qJw59Qzq7tn_UUZnDRLWeUfQrUSfrviu0RWlqzRCQr2DYcnRw6mHPffLtfsmNguwFcGFeCLz5OSD8K7kfswcRe6X53Bx0o3kfU4t5oKyUnFs4le31PdEE1J-h7ZApeM_ys/s1600/devil+mint.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgewlLMSP6G1qJw59Qzq7tn_UUZnDRLWeUfQrUSfrviu0RWlqzRCQr2DYcnRw6mHPffLtfsmNguwFcGFeCLz5OSD8K7kfswcRe6X53Bx0o3kfU4t5oKyUnFs4le31PdEE1J-h7ZApeM_ys/s640/devil+mint.jpg" width="484" /></a></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">Devil
Mint Cupcakes<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">¾ cup sugar<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 lg. eggs<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">6 oz.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>bitter-sweet chocolate,
chopped<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">½ cup butter<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">3 Tbs. heavy cream<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 tsp. vanilla<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 Tbs. Devil’s Food Vodka<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 cup flour<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">½ tsp. baking powder<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">½ tsp. baking soda<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">¼ tsp. salt<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">½ package Andes Mints, chopped</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In
a small sauce pan, melt chocolate with butter and stir in cream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Allow to cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pre-heat
oven to 350 and prepare pans with cupcake liners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This recipe will make approx. 14
cupcakes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a medium bowl, combine
flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Using a mixer, combine sugar and eggs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beat on medium for about 3 minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With mixer on low, pour in melted chocolate
mixture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Stir in vanilla and vodka.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add
flour mixture and stir until well combined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pour into prepared cups. Top each cup with chopped Andes Mints.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bake
15 to 18 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.</span></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span></span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic","sans-serif";">Devil Mint Frosting<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">¾
cup butter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">2
Tbs. heavy cream<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">1
Tbs. + 1 tsp. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Devil’s Food Vodka <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">5
cups powdered sugar<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">¼
tsp. peppermint extract<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Green
food coloring<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">2
oz. dark chocolate, melted<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">½
package Andes Mints, chopped</span><br />
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Using
stand mixer, beat butter until smooth and creamy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add 1 cup of powdered sugar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Blend until well combined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add heavy cream and 1Tbs. vodka.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Beat in additional powdered sugar ¼ cup at a
time, mixing well after each addition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Separate
frosting into two batches, leaving half in stand mixer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No need to be exact, just eyeball it </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To the half in the stand mixer, add 1 oz. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>melted chocolate and 1 tsp. vodka.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To the other half, add 1 tsp. peppermint
extract and a drop of green food coloring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Combine the two frosting mixes side by side in a large pastry bag fitted
with a star tip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pipe on cupcakes in a
swirl pattern.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Top with chopped Andes
Mints and drizzle with last 1 oz. melted chocolate.</span></div>
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</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Though these cupcakes contain booze, they can easily be made without<strong><em> IF </em></strong>you prefer. The booze content in these cupcakes is far less than the drunken gummy bears and jello shots that a co-worker of Alicia's made her for her birthday! You could also add the chopped mints in the batter but adding them to the top prevents them from sinking to the bottom of your cupcake. I'm not really sure how you can go wrong with a chocolate and mint combo, so make any adjustments you need/want. This was one of the first recipes I didn't use a base recipe to adapt from. I like days like that in the kitchen, when I am feeling inspired and things work out my way. </span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">These ended up being the perfect cupcakes for a celebration and surprise visit. As with any visit with far away friends, it just went by way too fast. There were cupcakes, wine tasting, visiting with "old" friends, and walking along the mighty mississippi, what more could I ask for!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I made it home on another special birthday to celebrate! Izzy turned 4 last week! She had a nice Dentastix served on a Birthday plate and a new s'more stuffed toy! Maybe next time I'll bake some dog friendly cupcakes too.</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</span> I love a road trip, even if just for a couple days. I just got back from another quick road trip to do some shopping with my cousin.....and of course sampled some new cupcakes! I have a much longer road trip on my bucket list. I wonder how many cupcake stops I could make driving cross country?!?<br />
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Sharing this post at <a href="http://www.apinchofjoy.com/2012/08/busy-monday-week-of-august-19/" target="_blank">A Pinch of Joy</a>, <a href="http://www.crazyforcrust.com/2012/08/crazy-sweet-tuesday-my-memories-giveaway.html" target="_blank">Crazy for Crust</a>, <a href="http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2012/08/linky_party_101/" target="_blank">Thirty Handmade Days</a>,<br />
<a href="http://hoosierhomemade.com/back-to-school-cupcake-tutorial/" target="_blank"> Hoosier Homemade</a>, <a href="http://www.bakeaholicmama.com/2012/08/sea-salted-caramel-mocha-cupcakes-and.html" target="_blank">Bakeaholic Mama</a>, and <a href="http://www.shakentogetherlife.com/2012/08/whats-shakin-link-party-23.html" target="_blank">Shaken Together</a>.</div>
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**Neither Cupcake Vodka or Andes Mints sponsored this post, just two products I love.**</div>
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<u><span style="color: #0066cc;"></span></u><br />Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-28867643855615237832012-08-12T21:38:00.000-05:002012-08-12T21:43:18.873-05:00Cake, Pretty Plates, and Thrifting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The first time I saw this cake in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Baker-Cookbook-Comforting-Recipes/dp/1401310605/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344821859&sr=8-1&keywords=Joy+the+baker" target="_blank">Joy's Cookbook</a>, I knew it would be a favorite. I also knew I'd want to serve it on one of my Mom's many cake pedestals. So this was the recipe this week for <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/161324710663962/" target="_blank">Sundays with Joy</a>. I first suggest you get this cookbook, I then suggest you join this group. It's a great place to share your love of baking and show off your creations.<br />
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O.K. so enough business, back to this cake! First of all, I love a bundt cake. They lend themselves to such simple decorations. A drizzle of a nice glaze would be fine or swirls of thick frosting like this one I made here. I didn't have to worry about getting smooth crisp edges like I would with a layer cake. It looks so pretty and fancy but really is super easy! I'm not even sure how I can successfully describe this cake. Let me try....IT'S AMAZING! The zucchini and cream cheese in the cake make it super moist and rich. Oh and the frosting? Brown sugar and cream cheese? Yes Please! It's the kind of frosting you you could eat by the spoonful, I'll have you know I did not. But you could, if that is your kind of thing. It would actually make a good fruit dip if you wanted to enjoy it on a bit of a lighter sweet treat. I served this cake to my family after dinner one day last week then promptly brought the rest to some coworkers. It's sweet, rich, and delicious....a bad combination to have on hand if you just want one piece!</div>
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This is the cake pedestal collection I got to choose from for serving this cake. The collection belongs to my Mom. A cake on top of a pedestal just makes it that more special I think. She had 1 or 30 some to share with me for this week's recipe! I'm not sure where she would put any new ones but I know she is always looking. Most of these are thrift store and goodwill finds with a few gifts from my sister and I thrown in. I think this may be one of her favorite things to thrift for though. She's got a gift for finding treasures like these. I'm hardly a thrifter compared to her. I do however get to benefit from her thrifting skills, she's found me some great treasures along the way too. I have a wicker bench on my porch and three tier table in my bedroom to prove it! Thanks Mom!</div>
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Speaking of thrifting....I participated in a fun little thrift exchange this month. A group of bloggers organized the Thrifty Love Gift Exchange. We were all assigned a partner to thrift for. My partner was Jenn from <a href="http://passengerseatperspectives.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Passenger Seat Perspectives</a>. I told her how I was looking for fabrics/cloths that would make good props for some of my blog photos.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrBrPtA9iYSHKHR9i44BMEJ7VXb93qBG-SLfDmuTt1uflzVbeJfLA4nMSZH23PB6yPuYiH3HeQuY1RpN-e5Ar5qppKQ6dwVYVfGpp9o-lSL3me8bcFrxOlLq8F3jMbrpH1j0uQeXVwXns/s1600/thrifty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrBrPtA9iYSHKHR9i44BMEJ7VXb93qBG-SLfDmuTt1uflzVbeJfLA4nMSZH23PB6yPuYiH3HeQuY1RpN-e5Ar5qppKQ6dwVYVfGpp9o-lSL3me8bcFrxOlLq8F3jMbrpH1j0uQeXVwXns/s400/thrifty.jpg" width="265" /></a>Jenn did a great job finding some fabrics, recipe cards, and even a cute little vase. I already used the red place mat and blue check napkin in last week's post. It was different thrifting for someone else, someone you've just emailed and never met, but a fun change of pace. Best part is, I found another great blog to follow. You can check out some other blog posts on this thrift gift exchange <a href="http://www.carinalee.com/2012/08/thrifty-love-link-up.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. I'm new to thrifting but with a great teacher like my Mom, I'll be finding all sorts of great treasures in no time. I even have a rummage sale find book shelf I hope to transform into a TV stand soon. Look out thrifting/DIY world....I'm coming for ya!<br />
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Any favorite things you like to thrift for?</div>
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Any tips for someone new to thrifting?</div>
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Does my Mom need more cake pedestals?</div>
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</center>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-17813824379279399732012-08-05T13:02:00.000-05:002012-08-05T13:02:35.199-05:00S'More Please!It's that time again, another<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/161324710663962/" target="_blank"> Sundays With Joy</a> recipe. This week, the ladies are baking Joy's S'Mores Brownies. Brownies are something I usually just make with a box mix. I'm pretty sure I won't be doing that too much more. Tasting these brownies reminded me just how much better brownies from scratch are. <br />
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This recipe incorporated bits of graham crackers and gooey toasted marshmallows on top. What's not to love? The recipe called for large marshmallows on top and I ended up using minis as I wanted more of those gooey bits. I think I could have used even more, I just love how they toasted up. I was nervous they might get too done, I've never been a fan of the charred marshmallows.<br />
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The recipe called for allowing the brownies to cool for at least 20 minutes before cutting. I think I made it about 10 minutes before needing to dig in and give them a try. I think waiting would have given me a nice cleaner edge but really, are you looking at the uneven cut job I did? Doubt it! Nope, you are just wondering how you can get your hands on some of these delicious brownies. I'm taking the rest of this batch to a graduation party this afternoon so you'll just have to make your own. Go out and get <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Baker-Cookbook-Comforting-Recipes/dp/1401310605/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344140794&sr=8-1&keywords=joy+wilson+cookbook" target="_blank">Joy's book</a>, you won't be disappointed. You can even join our Sundays With Joy group. We're baking our way through the whole book so we have a way to go yet. There are some good recipes (well they are all good!) coming up too. <br />
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As you can see, I used the usual s'mores ingredients for my props in today's photos. A great photo wasn't all I was after. I was craving some of these gooey campfire treats too. I couldn't let those props just go to waste. Usually I'm a golden brown marshmallow with the usual hunk of Hershey's chocolate sandwiched between two graham crackers. The classic s'more. Some like their marshmallow burnt to all holy hell, some use peanut butter cups instead of plain chocolate. The possibilities for the perfect s'more really are endless. Next time you are sitting around the campfire, try a new version, oh maybe like peanut butter bacon s'mores. Doesn't that sound tasty?<br />
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Crazy? Maybe, but they were tasty. Spread peanut butter on one of your graham cracker squares, top with your chocolate (Hershey's Special Dark is my favorite) and some crisp bacon. Add a nice toasted marshmallow and other graham cracker square. You now have the wild child cousin of the regular ol' s'more! Anyone else have s'more substitutions they like to make? Anyone plan on trying this peanut butter bacon version?<br />
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<br />Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-28998680578215723642012-07-29T17:14:00.001-05:002012-07-29T18:24:36.444-05:00How Does Your Garden Grow {plus a pesto recipe}?Last weekend I shared the great spread of lunch and dinner that included many items from my family's garden and the farmer's market. Today I thought I'd share some pics from our garden and a recipe using one of my favorite items out of the garden this year. <br />
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There is just something about fresh garden vegetables that taste so much better than store bought. My family's garden has had a few struggles this year. The weather being the biggest hurdle. It has been unseasonably hot and the heat has taken it's toll on a few of the plants. With some tender care, we're getting a pretty good crop. I'm sad the spinach didn't make it but loving the fresh basil. I'm anxious for the tomatoes and corn to get past their slow start but loving the cucumbers and zucchini. <br />
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I do think we may be growing some 4H or County Fair award winning squash though. This picture above is ONE plant. That's my nephew thrown to help you gauge size. The arrow is pointing to Izzy, who was locked out this day for eating peas faster than we could pick them. You'll recall she was <a href="http://tastysweetcupcakes.blogspot.com/2012/06/raspberry-oatmeal-squares.html" target="_blank">locked out</a> last month for eating raspberries. Those have since died off, so now she has turned her attention to the pea plants. The pods hang at just the right height for her to get those teeth on!</div>
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My favorite thing growing in the garden this year is basil. Just walking by that row in the garden smells amazing. I could eat pesto on just about anything. I think it is one of those things that people either love or not at all. If you fall in the love category and find yourself with some fresh basil, I suggest you make some pesto. It's super easy to make and tasty too!</div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Fresh
Basil Pesto<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></b></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif";">2
cups basil leaves (packed into cup)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif";">½
cup grated parmesan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif";">½
cup extra virgin olive oil<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;">1/3 <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif";">cup
pine nuts</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif";">salt
and pepper to taste</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif"; font-size: 8pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif";">Pulse
basil and pine nuts in food processor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Add garlic and pulse a few more times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Scrape down the sides of the food processor in between as needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With food processor running, slowly add olive
oil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add parmesan, salt and pepper and
pulse until blended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Store covered in
refrigerator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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Not sure what to do with your fresh pesto? Add to fresh cooked pasta for a quick and easy dish. I threw in some fresh mozzarella pearls and tomatoes. How's that for quick and easy?</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Semibold","sans-serif";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">What veggies or herbs are you growing this summer? Any favorite recipes with those items? </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sharing this post with the <a href="http://www.jamscorner.com/2012/07/marvelous-mondays-link-party-5.html" target="_blank">Marvelous Monday</a> link party.</span></div>
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</div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-21152190227689092862012-07-23T12:09:00.000-05:002012-07-23T13:07:44.901-05:00An Afternoon With JoyI'm so behind with keeping up with the rest of the Sundays With Joy <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/161324710663962/" target="_blank">group</a>. I just want to do right by Joy and try each and every single one of her fabulous recipes. I may be turning into a bit of a Joy super <strike>stalker</strike> fan. I follow Joy's <a href="http://joythebaker.com/" target="_blank">blog</a>, facebook page, instagram feed, and now in a group dedicated to making a recipe from Joy's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Baker-Cookbook-Comforting-Recipes/dp/1401310605" target="_blank">cookbook</a> every week!<br />
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This weekend I actually made LAST week's recipe and THIS week's recipe. Please don't tell Joy, I don't want her to be disappointed in me. <br />
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So I actually was thinking, what would it be like to have Joy as a guest. Would I do right by her preparing a great meal? Would Izzy scare Joy with her over zealous greeting? Maybe and most likely yes but wouldn't it be swell anyway!<br />
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This past Saturday, my sister and I started our day by going to the local farmer's market. I was a bit crabby as my sister texted me at 7:15 but it was worth it to get there early and have the best pick of everything on display. I really love the variety our market offers. Between there and my family's garden, I feel blessed to have the freshest and best fruits and veggies, even breads and cheese too. We made quite the hall at the market and put on a great spread for our family in the afternoon. Here's a list of our afternoon smorgasbord:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Homemade crostini using basil/tomato sourdough bread from the farmer's market.</li>
<li>Pasta with homemade pesto using basil from my family's garden.</li>
<li>Caprese kabobs using tomatoes and mozzarella from the market/basil from the garden.</li>
<li>Corn on the cob from the market with garlic butter/parmesan using corn and garlic from the market.</li>
<li>Cucumber salad using fresh picked cucumbers from the garden.</li>
<li>Two varieties of fresh local cherries from the market</li>
<li>Pesto dip for crackers or crostini using the homemade pesto. (will share my recipe later)</li>
<li>Meat and cheese platter with wasabi gouda and garlic dill cheese curds from the market.</li>
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To top off the day, I also made last week's Sunday's With Joy recipe, Zucchini and Potato Pancakes. <br />
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I made a fresh basil and lime garnish to top off these wonderful pancakes! This recipe was amazing, I loved them! They were simple to make with few ingredients but they pack a great flavor. The zucchini was fresh from the family garden. I hate to brag but my addition of the basil sour cream and lime really was a hit! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSwVTNNVrz6bzAKlqe1fmexdO6vhcYMyASpSmyY-x7Zdc7GiBXHuKDJ4e8CwDCqZPUx1TmbJ6QrXvSF5XIypYpADjqvhu1po3Hfj19DcX45OqwCU5-Xav5hTz3XkA69Ci6pqS4Lw1ZrCI/s1600/2012-07-21+14.03.46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSwVTNNVrz6bzAKlqe1fmexdO6vhcYMyASpSmyY-x7Zdc7GiBXHuKDJ4e8CwDCqZPUx1TmbJ6QrXvSF5XIypYpADjqvhu1po3Hfj19DcX45OqwCU5-Xav5hTz3XkA69Ci6pqS4Lw1ZrCI/s320/2012-07-21+14.03.46.jpg" width="320" /></a>This is a picture I posted on instagram that afternoon. It really was an impressive display and we had enough for lunch, dinner and leftovers for the next day. I made the comment to my family that afternoon, "this is how I imagine I'd eat if I lived in the Mediterranean"! That was the truth, it was such a relaxing afternoon with great food and great company. It was an olive oil and garlic filled day! I think Joy would approve too. Until the time came for dessert and I was totally behind on making this week's recipe, Espresso Granita with Sweet Lemon Cream.<br />
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The recipe would have made the perfect light ending to this lunch and dinner. Unfortunately I didn't make it as is or on time. I made my own take on granita with a tart margarita flavor and lemon lime cream. It was just enjoyed the next day instead. Granita is pretty fail proof and who am I kidding, I fell pretty darn fancy saying granita!<br />
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I'll post some pictures of the granita when I can. I should say IF I can, another busy work week for me! I hope you all had a good weekend and are ready to face the week.<br />
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Do you have any favorite farmer's market items? Or maybe at home garden goodies? Fresh is always best, don't you think?Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-74125033762494488052012-07-20T00:31:00.000-05:002012-08-23T10:25:52.027-05:00Blue Raspberry Beach CupcakesIn case you missed my guest post last week on <a href="http://shakentogether.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Shaken Together</a>, check out my latest creation....Blue Raspberry Beach Cupcakes. It's a short cut recipe, using a box mix to save a little time. I usually make my cupcakes from scratch, please excuse my cheating just this one time. The blue raspberry flavor was a success, my godchild already requested the flavor for his birthday cake next month! So technically I guess I will be cheating again! O.K. I'm a cheater, deal with it!<br />
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<strong><u>Blue Raspberry Cupcakes:</u></strong><br />
1 classic white cake mix<br />
1- 3 oz. box berry blue Jello-O<br />
4 large egg whites<br />
1 1/3 cup milk<br />
2 Tbs. vegetable oil<br />
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Line muffin tins with cupcake papers. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Stir all ingredients together. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Pour batter into prepared cups. This recipe will make about 30 cupcakes. Bake 18-20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.<br />
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<u><strong>Blue Raspberry Buttercream:</strong></u><br />
1/2 cup butter<br />
1/3 cup shortening<br />
1 1/2 tsp. raspberry extract<br />
4 cups powdered sugar<br />
2 Tbs. milk<br />
food coloring of choice<br />
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Mix butter and shortening together with paddle attachment of stand mixer until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar 1/4 cup at a time, mixing in completely and scraping down sides of bowl after each addition. Mix in raspberry extract and milk, using additional milk to reach piping consistency if needed. Stir in blue food coloring depending on shade of blue desired. Pipe frosting on cupcakes and decorate as desired.<br />
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoV0n6dBpqvEyMERtiz4f6UIC-me2RTMWjGuXE-zqxeWsqbp0kvXsULeHPDkUE-dhKJhMMr1YtXPQqGxqwR8SxRYGSNuratWaoraPzqRrXq0W4oK7Rl025HERAkKnLtn-6MXzjnPydwL8/s400/039.jpg" width="298" /></div>
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These Blue Raspberry Cupcakes would be fine with a cute straw stuck in like these. If you have a little more time and maybe want to get the kids involved in the decorating, I suggest you try making some candy clay. I first discovered candy clay in the book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cupcakes-Cookies-Pie-Oh-My/dp/0547662424" target="_blank">Cupcakes, Cookies & Pie, Oh, My!</a> They have so many creative ways to decorate with candies but I liked the idea of making my own candy, shaping and molding it into all sorts of cupcake decorations. It's easy to make and is tasty too!</div>
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<u><strong>Candy Clay (from Cupcakes, Cookies & Pie, Oh, My!):</strong></u></div>
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1 12 oz. bag chocolate chips or</div>
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1 14 oz. bag Wilton Candy Melts</div>
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1/3 cup light corn syrup</div>
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Melt candy in microwave. Stir after every 10-20 seconds and continue to do so. It won't take more than 1 minute to melt. Stir corn syrup and melted candy together. It instantly thickens together. Wrap the mixture in plastic wrap and let set for several hours. </div>
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You can start with the candy melt color you wish to work with or add in food coloring once set up. To work into shape or color, simply knead the clay with your hands. This is where the kids will have fun creating their own candy masterpieces! If the clay gets too soft from the heat of your hands, wrap in plastic wrap and allow to set up. Clay can be rolled out thin between sheets of wax paper and then cut with a knife into shapes you like. If you have small cookie cutters, those would work great too. Colors can be stacked or mixed together too. This candy clay is so fun to work with!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO18hPk3JyIuYaSGZAy_UMWPXGwM-5RofPBBpOpsiLu4lniZ1Errm1BXIybz65mp8IegO5lFmXcOfBeNEhXM7JWmdwXYcFgm04TtyJ5j3rHVerUjQwc5mY_FJpVL9vMDEYLBL-7T4OeDw/s1600/beach+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO18hPk3JyIuYaSGZAy_UMWPXGwM-5RofPBBpOpsiLu4lniZ1Errm1BXIybz65mp8IegO5lFmXcOfBeNEhXM7JWmdwXYcFgm04TtyJ5j3rHVerUjQwc5mY_FJpVL9vMDEYLBL-7T4OeDw/s400/beach+collage.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you want to make a beach theme like I did, cover some of your frosted cupcakes in graham cracker crumbs to look like sand. I did small groups of cupcakes, but you could do a large layout will all or most of your cupcakes too. Set your sand cupcakes closely together and then line one side with unfrosted cupcakes. Get the unfrosted cupcakes as close together as you can, when finished, you want them to look like one set of waves. Pipe frosting along cupcakes to make continuous waves. I used Wilton tip 1G and love how the waves turned out. </div>
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What cupcake theme would you like to see next, any ideas?<br />
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Sharing this post on <a href="http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2012/07/linky_party_97/" target="_blank">Thirty Handmade Days</a>, <a href="http://www.insidebrucrewlife.com/2012/07/trick-or-treat-tuesday_24.html" target="_blank">Inside BruCrew Life</a>,</div>
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<a href="http://www.crazyforcrust.com/2012/07/crazy-sweet-tuesday_23.html" target="_blank">Crazy for Crust</a>, <a href="http://www.apinchofjoy.com/2012/07/busy-monday-week-of-july-22/" target="_blank">A Pinch of Joy</a>, <a href="http://madeinaday.com/2012/08/02/made-u-look-linky-35/" target="_blank">Made in a Day</a>, and <a href="http://hoosierhomemade.com/summer-cupcakes/" target="_blank">Cupcake Tuesday</a>.</div>
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Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-70058108784174239082012-07-13T13:58:00.003-05:002012-08-24T10:34:41.920-05:00Favorite Things Friday {#3}I have been absent from blogging as of late. I keep up the best I can with all my favorite blog reading and end up being so jealous of the multiple posts going on. Oh well, such is life. I do what I can and thank the readers I have for hanging on anyway! Here are some of my favorite things right now.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>#1 The best dog sitters EVER!</strong></span><br />
The last few weeks have been a bit of a struggle for me. I had some long days of extra hours at work which means Izzy would have several long days home alone. Not the case when she has her "grandparent's" house to go to. My parents have helped me out so much, letting Izzy have mini vacations at their house where she can go swimming, help in the garden, and go on long walks around the trails my Dad made out in the field.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4nnCCfZHtK1OT6KQtS7GTqz3yw0o0RmuK4SO6nZgvao37xC0ypynK1BlF7Gu-GuDTOsSJ8qoXx_NH3VyUiNPfy2UdFIxTUg3ZL2Wwz5FiSFMzmWd3AXA5FRG5TqguSExT1QsM9y3uyL0/s1600/iz+mix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4nnCCfZHtK1OT6KQtS7GTqz3yw0o0RmuK4SO6nZgvao37xC0ypynK1BlF7Gu-GuDTOsSJ8qoXx_NH3VyUiNPfy2UdFIxTUg3ZL2Wwz5FiSFMzmWd3AXA5FRG5TqguSExT1QsM9y3uyL0/s640/iz+mix.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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She's happy and that makes me happy!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>#2 My first guest post!</strong></span><br />
I had my first guest post for another blog this week. Check out the cupcakes I made for Keri, Blue Raspberry Beach Cupcakes, <a href="http://shakentogether.blogspot.com/2012/07/blue-raspberry-beach-cupcakes-candy.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>! I adapted the recipe from a cake mix, {gasp!} for the first time. Though I enjoy making cupcakes from scratch, it was a time saver so I could spend more time on the decorations. Thanks to Keri for inviting me, I had fun. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>#3 Thrift Gift Exchange</strong></span><br />
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<a href="http://nickandcarina.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="a punk, a pumpkin and a peanut" src="http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/h471/punkpumpkinpeanut/thriftylove200.jpg" /></a></center>
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Some wonderful bloggers set up a mass gift exchange among bloggers across the country. Those of us that enjoy thrifting have a $10 limit to go thrifting for their partner. I'm on the search for something (or things) perfect for Jenn from<a href="http://passengerseatperspectives.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"> Passenger Seat Perspectives!</a> </div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">#4 Supportive Friends and Family</span></strong></div>
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I did something a month ago that I haven't done in many (14is) years. I worked on my resume. Not exactly the "what I did on my summer vacation" story I would prefer but it happened. I had the opportunity to apply for a position within the organization I am currently working. It was a bit of a nerve racking experience to say the least. There were over 300 applicants and I was lucky enough to be invited in for an interview on Monday. Business suit clad, I arrived with a ton of nerves (to say the least)! It's a strange feeling walking into your place of employment as a visitor. Sadly I got the dreaded phone call from HR on Wednesday morning. I'm not going to lie, there were tears. As much as I was disappointed, I was also relieved to have that month of wondering and worrying behind me. There was a mass text sent out and the replies that came back were all wonderful, supportive and a good reminder of the amazing people in my life!</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">#5 WEEKENDS (real non-working weekends)</span></strong></div>
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Or see #1 and #4! I actually have a semi-real weekend. I'm off today and Saturday and don't have to be back in to work until Sunday afternoon. I'm going to enjoy every minute of it. I'll try to post some of my weekend fun on Instagram (I'm still loving Instagram!). </div>
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Sorry if some (<em>most</em>) of this post appeared a bit pity party-ish. It's been a long week. Don't forget to check out my beach cupcake guest post, they were so much fun to make. Maybe Izzy and I need to head to the beach this weekend. How does that Zach Brown Band song go? </div>
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"I got my toes in the water, ass in the sand<br />
Not a worry in the world, a cold
beer in my hand<br />
Life is good today, life is good today?"</div>
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Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-31021379663632612642012-07-01T08:20:00.000-05:002012-07-01T08:23:05.946-05:00Sundays With Joy ~ Cool Down Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1C95Z5hCnf2HaREsYaKxEExDRl-kpwocizMH9zHxLajXt8CHpI2-7eaX8QKbtToaGe1XVzL8ToST5k59re13zkBdXbrYcFr2dghpRandgXhU4fKqcyi0lmr5bnLe_PjNJShqOwH8RYtU/s1600/014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1C95Z5hCnf2HaREsYaKxEExDRl-kpwocizMH9zHxLajXt8CHpI2-7eaX8QKbtToaGe1XVzL8ToST5k59re13zkBdXbrYcFr2dghpRandgXhU4fKqcyi0lmr5bnLe_PjNJShqOwH8RYtU/s400/014.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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How could you possibly improve on a plate of dark chocolate and raspberries? It's not easy but you can. You add chunks of each to a smooth fudgey pudding mixture and freeze it. What you get are Chocolate Raspberry Fudge Pops, another Joy Wilson creation (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Baker-Cookbook-Comforting-Recipes/dp/1401310605/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1341148904&sr=8-1&keywords=joy+wilson" target="_blank">check out Joy's book here</a>). Sounds easy right? So where does the hard part come in? Getting those stinking pops out of the molds! I checked with my other Sundays With Joy gals to see what recommendations they might have on molds. I was told as long as I run them under warm water, I'll be fine. I was told small cups/popsicle sticks would work too. I was convinced I needed some molds so off I went. Bed, Bath and Beyond and Target were both a bust. Unless I wanted to spend over 20 bucks to get the instant-freeze maker thingy that only made 4 at a time. It has a name but I can't recall it. I then happened upon some at my grocery store. These here in two different sizes to give my first attempt at homemade fudge pops a success or so I thought.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYnhTUqA-wVUfwJxv_1m0iOi8s5Kabhl08KokKV4jU-z0yyExFXi7kFSJaFt53hLJuWMp_BVZmqarbuhcdffOZW0GDDkKNxks0ikcEb4XuxkuI6F-mvPLhSyS9bjM_6U688HsraEQ0eA/s1600/005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbYnhTUqA-wVUfwJxv_1m0iOi8s5Kabhl08KokKV4jU-z0yyExFXi7kFSJaFt53hLJuWMp_BVZmqarbuhcdffOZW0GDDkKNxks0ikcEb4XuxkuI6F-mvPLhSyS9bjM_6U688HsraEQ0eA/s400/005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The small ones came out after running under warm water like I was told but the ends were melting already by the time I got them out. Fine if you are going to eat them right away, not fine if you need to get a photo from every possible angle you can. The large ones were even harder to get out. I ran them under water but the handle still pulled out on me, so now what? I'm hoping the sticks re-freeze and I will be able to get them out eventually. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9PYBP6y7fWpw6SiZ4g8OdIyoPa5i1QXgxav3rwXFPSvpyiUMCe1GNHMogDlROGATnWAd1ecp3oS07yhIix1-piljC71vS1qI2sf0VXrIawQL2s6PhzejS7ANW_in2CXI2F3LZjfORK8E/s1600/fudge+pop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9PYBP6y7fWpw6SiZ4g8OdIyoPa5i1QXgxav3rwXFPSvpyiUMCe1GNHMogDlROGATnWAd1ecp3oS07yhIix1-piljC71vS1qI2sf0VXrIawQL2s6PhzejS7ANW_in2CXI2F3LZjfORK8E/s640/fudge+pop.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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See, these fudge pops are quite tasty and I don't want to waste a single one! Especially because it is like 1000 degrees out as I type this. O.K. maybe not 1000 but in the 80's, close to 90's and humid. This was also another great way to use some of the raspberries from the family garden.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwWvkkO-zoZkOHQt_IiUB7wm3AmAskLyOpmqjebgxctBR-ugymxFlJ04v0WCwrsHKb2_K31u1-RnqgeqDs0efcrAcBo_4rZbDiCWVxl3KFW5r69LkTRH6C9PGOFKMEPUs4Z9C_Bsus8Q/s1600/2012-06-28+17.45.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwWvkkO-zoZkOHQt_IiUB7wm3AmAskLyOpmqjebgxctBR-ugymxFlJ04v0WCwrsHKb2_K31u1-RnqgeqDs0efcrAcBo_4rZbDiCWVxl3KFW5r69LkTRH6C9PGOFKMEPUs4Z9C_Bsus8Q/s400/2012-06-28+17.45.43.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
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Don't forget the four-legged friends during those hot days. They may enjoy a frozen treat too! Izzy enjoys <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FrostyPaws" target="_blank">Purina Frosty Paws</a>. I have a recipe to make some homemade dog friendly treats I need to try. I know I have a great taste tester when I do.</div>
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Have a recipe or tip for staying cool in the summer heat? I'd love to hear it.</div>
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Don't forget to check out what the rest of the Sundays With Joy gals thought of these fudge pops. Carrie at <a href="http://www.bakeaholicmama.com/" target="_blank">Bakeaholic Mama</a> hosts the link <a href="http://www.bakeaholicmama.com/2012/07/dark-chocolate-chunk-raspberry.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div>
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P.S. What do you think of the new blog look? </div>
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</div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-26674403188395760582012-06-28T11:53:00.000-05:002012-06-30T08:58:48.834-05:00Raspberry Oatmeal Squares<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDwQC_P5P7Grew1thCI0BFb8ge4b1L1X2h4J-3qtdR364yc17I0o9VLOvhBI495wRLy10nGiHoqLikbRamPgAMrCO4kkep23CXwHx4QbRMEhyphenhyphenLg_8z-aeVQIHEqeHFjQMRsNBrB7Jsrc/s1600/023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDwQC_P5P7Grew1thCI0BFb8ge4b1L1X2h4J-3qtdR364yc17I0o9VLOvhBI495wRLy10nGiHoqLikbRamPgAMrCO4kkep23CXwHx4QbRMEhyphenhyphenLg_8z-aeVQIHEqeHFjQMRsNBrB7Jsrc/s640/023.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had to go to the dentist this week. Not that you would care but while waiting to see the dentist I found this recipe in my magazine. It was a food magazine but the recipe actually came from an ad for <a href="http://truvia.com/baking/" target="_blank">Truvia</a>. These squares caught my eye right away knowing the family garden was overflowing with raspberries. Overeflowing like they could be picked everyday. I also was interested in trying the <a href="http://truvia.com/baking/" target="_blank">Truvia Baking Blend</a>. I've used Truvia before, but just the packets to sweeten tea or coffee. I'm a baker, the kind of baker that likes butter and sugar and all the sweetness it can create. BUT....if I can bake a treat lower in sugar and it still tastes good, I'd be happy. This recipe made me happy. I couldn't even tell the difference from regular sugar. </div>
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(**Truvia is not paying me for this post, just happens to be a product I use**)</div>
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I feel spoiled having raspberries everyday lately and will be sad when the crop runs out. Maybe I'll freeze a few of these bars to satisfy my raspberry craving months from now. This summer I also introduced Izzy to raspberries. She loves them too! Unfortunately by watching us pick raspberries a few times, she learned to "pick" her own and started nibbling at the branches. Then this happens....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvj1HthmEDFSU8BiP6tnBbHkVauNruGy1lfmZcckWgnGsMJhXfcF5pYDDhUsIInjX-T_XbO-TrkV60VzJ7bJkqRUHG9nnnfEX0EUXmklc2opyY6IvxbxkH32Cq_o_meE67H-ujPXR8jjU/s1600/2012-06-20+18.04.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvj1HthmEDFSU8BiP6tnBbHkVauNruGy1lfmZcckWgnGsMJhXfcF5pYDDhUsIInjX-T_XbO-TrkV60VzJ7bJkqRUHG9nnnfEX0EUXmklc2opyY6IvxbxkH32Cq_o_meE67H-ujPXR8jjU/s400/2012-06-20+18.04.12.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Yep! Locked out of the garden. Doesn't she look sad? She must have learned her lesson, the next picking she happily walked along and just took any samples she was given and didn't try picking her own. It's a work in progress.</div>
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Here's the recipe if you find yoursef with a supply of raspberries on hand. </div>
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I hope you do!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Raspberry Oatmeal Squares</span></b>
(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">as seen in Food Network Magazine by
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 cups old-fashioned oats</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 cups all-purpose flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 tsp. cinnamon</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">¾ cup unsalted butter, softened</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">½ tsp. vanilla extract</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;">1/3</span><span style="font-size: 9pt;"> </span>cup Truvia Baking Blend</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">4 cups raspberries</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;">1/3 </span>cup Truvia Baking Blend</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2 tsp. lemon juice</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;">1/3 </span>cup cornstarch</span><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></div>
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</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Place <span style="font-size: 9pt;">2/3 </span>of oat mixture into greased 9-by-13-inch baking pan; set
aside remaining mixture for topping.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Press oat mixture into bottom of pan to form
crust.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For filling: blend raspberries, Truvia, lemon
juice and cornstarch until uniform.
Spread over pressed oat mixture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For topping, add remaining oat mixture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Bake at 325 for 35 to 40 minutes until golden
brown.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Cut into squares and enjoy!</div>
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Check back Sunday to see another recipe using fresh raspberries. It's a great one for cooling off on these hot summer days (we are under a Heat Advisory here today!) </div>
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Sharing this post at <a href="http://www.crazyforcrust.com/2012/06/crazy-sweet-tuesday_25.html" target="_blank">Crazy Sweet Tuesday</a>, <a href="http://www.insidebrucrewlife.com/2012/06/trick-or-treat-tuesday_26.html" target="_blank">Trick or Treat Tuesday</a>,</div>
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<a href="http://kitchenfunwithmy3sons.blogspot.com/2012/06/kitchen-fun-and-crafty-friday-link_28.html" target="_blank">Kitchen Fun and Crafty Friday</a>, and <a href="http://shakentogether.blogspot.com/2012/06/whats-shakin-link-party-15-patriotic.html" target="_blank">What's Shakin'</a>.</div>
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<br /></div>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-60404340294915763312012-06-20T11:40:00.000-05:002012-06-20T11:40:39.834-05:00Welcome Wednesday<br />
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Take a look or join the Welcome Wednesday blog hop. I'm not sure about where you are but it's hot here in Wisconsin....so don't feel bad about spending a little extra time online enjoying the air conditioning! If you want to add this blog hop to your blog, check out the details over at <a href="http://www.takeitfrom-me.com/2012/06/welcome-wednesday-620-626.html" target="_blank">Take It From Me</a>.<br />
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<script src="http://www.linkytools.com/basic_linky_include.aspx?id=150048" type="text/javascript">
</script>Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6289900814761255635.post-58865925823798874182012-06-18T12:25:00.001-05:002012-06-18T12:25:51.687-05:00Green Smoothie<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEK4WOZ0sf-8HB-O97jMkNjSLBtJSgyPMesx5kK5vF_Byu5wvRKLciIG4kcaMflj19dKwja3lxQ3-9tV5v6biGYefbgO59aQmATeIbpjgiOJzW52YK0RFC2RTYOApbM_Y0U4Ga7oXc1SI/s1600/2012-06-17+12.29.02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEK4WOZ0sf-8HB-O97jMkNjSLBtJSgyPMesx5kK5vF_Byu5wvRKLciIG4kcaMflj19dKwja3lxQ3-9tV5v6biGYefbgO59aQmATeIbpjgiOJzW52YK0RFC2RTYOApbM_Y0U4Ga7oXc1SI/s320/2012-06-17+12.29.02.jpg" width="320" /></a>Every time I post something non-cupcake related, I feel a little bad. I promise, I still love all things cupcake and have plans coming up to bake some fun summer themed cupcakes soon! Truth is, life happens. It isn't realistic for me to have baked goods in the house every week, I lack any sort of self control having sweets near by. <br />
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I'm lucky that as much as I have a sweet tooth, I also enjoy all sorts of fruits and vegetables. I could eat salads at every meal, the only thing that can be difficult is having fresh ingredients constantly on hand without items going bad. Especially cooking for one, I need to work on how much to buy and how long some items will keep fresh. I love this time of year, when so many fruits and vegetable are found fresh locally and soon our family garden will be supplying my produce needs. The garden at my parent's house is off to a good start. Just the other day, I enjoyed dessert of fresh picked raspberries. I didn't even make it out of the garden, right from plant into my belly! I also discovered Izzy enjoys raspberries and followed close as I picked, waiting for her fair share. Yes, I did verify they are good for her, good information <a href="http://raisinghealthydogs.com/can-dogs-eat-berries" target="_blank">HERE</a>. I also discovered she is not a fan of radishes!<br />
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O.k. so now onto this smoothie. It was another recipe from <a href="http://joythebaker.com/" target="_blank">Joy The Baker</a> and her new cookbook. Kale, Spinach, Banana and Peanut Butter Smoothie was the recipe of the week with the Sundays With Joy group. I thought I wouldn't be able to make this without a fancy juicer, blender or one of those bullet gadgets but I was wrong. My basic blender did just fine. I pulsed the heck out of that kale and spinach because my biggest worry was having chunks of those greens. One taste and any worry was out the window. Maybe this eating healthy quest won't be so hard. I think I'll use this smoothie recipe as a "base" and throw in other fruits or vegetables I have on hand. <br />
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Again, if you haven't checked our Joy's blog or cookbook yet, you are missing out. Her recipes are easy to follow and it feels like you are cooking/chatting in the kitchen with one of your girlfriends. I've found that I enjoy her stories accompanying the recipes as much as the recipes themselves. With this smoothie recipe Joy writes, "A girl cannot survive on biscuits and bacon alone. I know; I've tried. My thighs got big." Get your copy <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Joy-Baker-Cookbook-Comforting-Recipes/dp/1401310605/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1335722218&sr=8-1" target="_blank">HERE</a>! You won't be disappointed.<br />
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I'll be trying this smoothie again. It's a quick and easy breakfast, snack or lunch. Anything that can counter balance my sweet tooth is a bonus! <br />
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As always, thanks for stopping. Changes are coming to the blog over the next few weeks. A new design is in the works at this very moment. I hope you stop again. Whether it's smoothies, cupcakes or crafts, I hope you enjoy what I have to share. Have a suggestion or request? I'd love to hear them, send me an email: <a href="mailto:%7Btastysweetcupcakes@gmail.com">{tastysweetcupcakes@gmail.com</a>}.<br />
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I leave you today with my new mantra, "<strong><em><span style="font-size: large;">BE BOLD, because no one will be bold on your behalf</span></em></strong>." That comes from Joy too, isn't she great!<br />
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Check out what the other Sundays With Joy bloggers had to say about this smoothie, <a href="http://www.bakeaholicmama.com/2012/06/sunday-morning-peanut-butter-green.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />Sarahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02848017131125721195noreply@blogger.com6