Puff Pastry

Puff pastry has so many uses for many baked goods. A few of the many things you can do with this are Beef Wellington, Parmesan Twists, Stuffed Hand Pies, Cinnamon Rolls, Croissants, Pot Pies, and the list goes on. One of the things I do often with it is these Apple Roses, which I also switch up and make Peach Roses It can be a long and tedious process to make but I much prefer to make my own so I know what’s in it, I’m not a fan of preservatives. I used baker’s measures so you’ll need a scale.

Jazzed Up Refried Beans

Refried beans out of a can look and smell pretty gross, and while we know they’re going to taste good they can totally taste better 🙂 Here’s a quick way to jazz them up a little bit. The ones here are pictured with my green enchiladas

Pesto

When you want pasta but the tomato-based sauce just doesn’t sound good 🙂 Fresh basil can be hard to find so this gives you the option of spinach, some people will also use kale. The base you use will obviously change the flavor but don’t be afraid to mix and match greens, play with this, see what you wind up with. Pesto is a thing you can truly make your own. Set a little extra aside and mix it with a little bit of mayonnaise for a pesto aioli for a salami sandwich. Also, if you can’t find fresh basil …

Italian Dressing

I don’t like bottled dressings because I see no point in sugar and preservatives in everything we eat. This is a favorite dressing that I make because I can change the oil, change the vinegar, and/or change the spices, and always have something different.

Margarita Pie

I have taken this to countless potlucks and parties over the years, it’s always a hit and there’s almost never any to take home with me. I’ve also used it for Superbowl parties. On occasion, I’d scale it WAY back and have it for my kids as an afterschool snack that’d last em a couple of days.

California Beef Salad

This is a great salad that’s a meal in itself. I enjoy serving it with a loaf of nice French bread or baguette lightly toasted. I often make this in the summer when the last thing I want to do is turn on the stove. I’ll grill up a London broil then slice it super thin for salads such as this one. The prep time on this doesn’t include the marinading time.

New Orleans Rice

This rice is sooo full of flavor and it all comes together in the oven. Can’t get much easier than that. I did try this in the Instant Pot and it just didn’t come out the same so I’m only putting the oven directions here.

Italian Sausage

Italian sausage has so many uses and I much prefer to make it at home rather than buy it in the store because then I have complete control over the spices in it, the heat level, everything. I use Italian sausage in spaghetti sauce, I’ll mix it 50/50 with beef for one of the most flavorful burgers you’ve ever sunk your teeth into, I’ll also do the same with meatloaf. It’s great fried up with eggs for a morning omelet. Its uses are pretty much endless. Just think outside the box and figure out where you could put this.

Rocky Road Squares

These lil guys are sooo addictive LOL !! I put them in the freezer and eat them from there. They aren’t too frozen to bite into at all. I love cold marshmallows. My mother wasn’t a baker at all so not sure who she got this recipe from. I’ve been making it in these last 25 yrs that I’ve had the book (writing this August 2020) and they are an absolute fav. I’ve made them with all sorts of different chips, milk chocolate, white chocolate, butterscotch, a mixture of dark and white. I’ve also switched the peanuts up for almonds …

Plated Green Bean Salad

Green Bean Salad

Have you ever wondered what a new and innovative way is to have green beans?  Today I am going to share with you a new, fun, and healthier way of having green beans.  There are so many ways that you can take this simple, humble ingredient to the next level in flavor and texture. To make this vegan, switch out the feta cheese for a vegan cheese of your choosing. You can use any style and cut of green beans that you prefer.  I like to experiment with different textures and flavors of food.  A salad can be anything that …

Bourbon Balls

These were a holiday gift that my cousin Jackie gave to everyone. This is hysterical to me because she was SOOOPER Catholic and never drank. They’re very addictive, I’ve never known anyone who could eat just one and walk away.

Coffee Cake

Last minute invitation to a friends house for coffee? Family Brunch? Or simply want something lite to drink with your coffee each morning? Well look no further than this coffee cake recipe! This easy to make coffee cake is so versatile that you can really make it all your own! With many different ways to make this cake, you can be ready for just about any occasion. All you need is 35 minutes and your imagination!

Coleslaw

LOL this is one of my Nana’s recipes and she didn’t write a single measurement down or nothing. It’s just a list of ingredients so I got to play 🙂 I’m completely NOT a coleslaw fan and there have been less than a handful I have found that I liked over the years, but this one is good and has turned around a few coleslaw haters such as myself.

Jeanie’s Pasta Salad

This came from a cousin of mine. What’s funny is it’s written in my handwriting but I don’t recall doing it so it must’ve been when I was young 🙂 OOPS This is a favorite of mine. I make it often and have it as a meal, it’s filling and super tasty. I play with the ingredients a lot on this one. Make it your own, have fun with it. This is one you can definitely go hog wild with.

Watermelon Sorbet

This cool and refreshing watermelon sorbet is the perfect summer time treat for the whole family! And the best part is…you don’t even need an ice cream maker! It’s super easy to make and only needs a few simple ingredients! Enjoy!

Lemon Sherbet

This light and tangy frozen treat is perfect for those hot summer days! You can serve this sweet and creamy dessert as a refreshing snack any time of day or night! This lemon sherbet is so easy to make and you don’t need an ice cream machine! You can use the “still freeze” method by partially freezing and stirring the mixture as it sets! Enjoy!

Peach Sherbet

This is the perfect end of summer treat. Light and fruity; and easy to make. All you need is a food processor or blender, and a freezer!  It’s never been easier to have a healthier version of a frozen treat!

Chocolate Oreo Parfait

This dessert screams PARTY TIME!!! It is so quick and easy to make this fun dessert you can whip this up in minutes for any party, potluck, or picnic! Who doesn’t love layers of deliciousness in a cup??? You and your guests will be so happy with this very simple to make recipe. Take it to go or stay and enjoy!

Steamed Chocolate Pudding

Here is the perfect winter treat for you chocolate lovers out there! This recipe is family friendly and super simple to make! So get the kids in the kitchen and have fun making this steamed chocolate pudding dessert! Don’t let the name fool you! This is more like a decadent cake that is really moist and fudge-like. Instead of baking this, you steam it, which makes it soft and moist and fabulously delicious! If I had to compare it to something, I would say it’s like a well-done molten lava cake! That is how wonderfully chocolatey this treat is! Enjoy!

Chocolate Fudge Frosting

This heavy, rich frosting is thick and wonderful on cakes. It’s cooked on the stove to melt the sugar down like your would for candy. The cake this goes on must be covered tightly to prevent the frosting from drying out and hardening.

Fruit Salad with Vanilla Pie Filling

This is a twist on your typical fruit salad. Here you’ll take the fruits of your choosing and mix them with pie filling. The original recipe from the book called for lemon pie filling, but not the instant. Here vanilla was used. It’s a different twist on an old staple. Enjoy !!!

Chicken Marengo

Chicken Marengo is an updated version of chicken and gravy. It is an amazing dish to try. It’s excellent for leftovers or for lunch for your spouse or yourself as well. It heats up beautifully in the microwave.  I hope that you enjoy making this dish for you and your family.

Pepper Steak

Pepper steak was one of the dishes that I would often order at the local Chinese restaurants.  It was always one of my favorites as a child.  I can remember going out to eat and always ordering it.  I remember it coming with a side of brown rice, egg roll, and a fortune cookie.  I am so excited to be able to make this recipe.  Although the version I remember growing up as a child had carrots, onions, peppers, and mushrooms.  I believe that this dish should showcase the peppers.

Tomato Mushroom Barley Salad

This salad, it is simple yet satisfying. It is also a way to understand barley and how simple it shows a multitude of uses. From risotto to a casserole and everything in between. the grain expands when it absorbs any liquid such as water, chicken broth, etc. This was different but it was satisfying.

Pizza Mexicana

Pizza is something that everyone loves to enjoy from time to time.  This recipe is one of the best pizza recipes that I have ever made.  The pizza dough can be intimidating to make, but this recipe makes it simple and it has an amazing taste to it.  We love thin crust pizza so that is what I made.  You can make this as spicy as you want or as mild as you want.  There are endless possibilities when you are adding toppings as well. So get creative and get the kids involved in making this fun dish.

Zucchini Squash

In my family I can remember growing summer yellow squash and the zucchini squash.  I was excited to try this version of zucchini.  I think that this is  a very versatile vegetable and can be used in many ways. This is a wonderful side dish to go along with either your lunch or dinner.  It’s great for a potluck and easy to fix.  I hope you give this wonderful side dish a try.  You can make it vegetarian, or vegan.

Cacik (Turkish Yogurt Dip)

This dip or sauce depending on how thick you make it, is a quick and easy little something to throw together to set off any Turkish Dish you are making.  I served this on top of the Turkish Lamb Pilaf dish that I made and to go along with the Naan Bread that I served to make this meal more rounded out.  I hope you enjoy this.  It was a huge hit here at our house.  Especially with a house full of picky eaters.

Stinger Cocktail

The Stinger Cocktail originated in the US in the 1890’s and remained popular until the 1970’s. This simple drink can be enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif as it is very minty. The recipe calls for white crème de menthe, but I thought using green crème de menthe would be a great adult beverage to serve during holiday festivities. Enjoy!

Chicken Teriyaki

Chicken teriyaki is a Japanese dish made with sake and mirin. I decided to add a little Hawaiian influence and make this a little more family friendly. This dish is savory with just a touch of sweetness. I served with white rice. It can also be served with riced cauliflower for a low carb substitute. This was a huge hit with my family!

Lemon Lavender Custard Cake

A light and fluffy custard cake with lavender buds and lemon best served with a hot cup of tea for a cold afternoon. This cake in the end should surprise you with 3 layers of texture! Fluffy cake, light custard, and creamy bottom.

Cinnamon Maple Butter

An easy spread that not only can be used on anything, but it feels like fall in your mouth. Perfect on bread, bagels, cinnamon rolls, waffles, and pancakes. Gives anything a sweet cinnamon and maple sweetness taste.   CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 while visiting the various producers I picked up a bunch of recipe pages on all sorts of categories that were …

Comfort Sour

The name “Comfort Sour”, I believe was given because of the use in this version of a whiskey sour. Nonetheless, you may use any bourbon or rye that you like.   This came from a booklet of drinks circa 1970s is my guess. Here’s the page of the booklet this came from

Fruit with Garlic

The idea of having garlic served with fruit may seem rather odd at first, but Joseph Carcione, aka ” The “greengrocer”, states that garlic brings out the flavors of the fruit or vegetable that it is cooked with. After roasting the garlic, the sugars come through and the harshness of the garlic dissipates and leaves a mellow flavor. This is a recipe that should not be overlooked.

Cabbage Bell Pepper Rolls & Deconstructed Version

I grew up eating cabbage rolls.  It was something I always loved when my momma would make them.  I decided to put my own twist where I combined stuffed bell peppers in with the cabbage rolls.  I also took the extra cabbage and with the remaining meat mixture decided to make a deconstructed cabbage roll casserole.  Which is really easy to make and it will finish off the leftover cabbage that you have.

Homemade Hot Cocoa

Hot cocoa is something that is so comforting on cold mornings.  I have always loved hot cocoa or hot chocolate. I was always taught to call it hot chocolate.  I can remember as a young girl my grandmother Olene would make this for all of us on cold mornings before school.  It was such a welcoming treat before heading off to catch the bus for school.  I made this a different way than what my grandmother made it.  I hope you enjoy this recipe.

Cottage Cheese Egg Omelet

I have never heard of having cottage cheese with scrambled eggs before.  This dish was from the 60’s or 70’s time frame.  I decided to make it into something totally different.  I made this into an egg omelet.  It was delicious.

Spinach Soup

This recipe was inspired by an article from a newsletter from a local power company in the 1970’s. I aimed to lighten and brighten the recipe as it seemed very heavy and over shadowed the spinach. I love using fresh produce when possible and this vibrant green soup was well received by the pickiest of family members. There are several ways to make substitutions to any lifestyle whether vegetarian or vegan. This savory soup may be served warm or chilled. Here’s the original from that newsletter

Open House Punch

A light, refreshing drink that makes your taste buds do the jig. This beverage can be made ahead for your next gathering. Just add the 7-up when serving.   This came from a little booklet, probably dating back to the later 60s or early 70s full of Southern Comfort drinks

Tuna Wild Rice Bake

The idea of having warm tuna wasn’t something I looked forward to, but…MY GOODNESS! I wanted to add some freshness to this recipe with the addition of herbs and some fresh lemon zest . This recipe is one that can help stretch a dollar, but is definitely not lacking in flavor. A must try!

Maple Sugar Frosting

Mention frosting and most people imagine buttercream piled high on top of cupcakes. However, frosting is not just buttercream and can include a wide variety of confectionery toppings. Maple Sugar Frosting is a sweet, fluffy delight that can be used for cakes, cookies, or even bread. It is simple to make and has a marshmallow-like texture that is fun to make and eat.     CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other …

Murder By Chocolate, Caramel, and Almond

Let this cake wow your family and friends for a party! 5 different tastes in one cake keep one’s mouth buds guessing and surprised! Murder with chocolate, caramel, and almond! Milk or coffee will serve perfectly with a slice of delectable chocolate cake!

Maple Mustard Salmon

This simple and very easy salmon recipe is very flavorful and a must have for summer lunches or a light dinner. The mustard adds a little tanginess that is complimented with the slightly sweet maple syrup. For a healthy option this salmon can be served hot along side your favorite steamed vegetable or on top of a salad.   CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is huge thing there, You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 …

St. Louis Cocktail

This drink is for those that like to sip on whiskey or bourbon. The peaches add just a touch of sweetness and a wonderful peachy essence. I added some fresh sweet raspberries to add some color and flavor. This would be perfect to enjoy during the hot summer months. For a fun twist, you could use peach or apricot sorbet!          

Maple Custard

Custard is known for its creamy dense texture. This custard is light and creamy as the recipe calls for whipped egg whites.   It is different from your typical custard. Adding your choice of chopped nuts adds a delightful crunch.     CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 while visiting the various producers I picked up a bunch of recipe pages on all sorts of …

Sour Cream Cake

Sour cream cake is a lovely, not too sweet, cake that is perfect for a variety of fillings and toppings. It can easily be adapted to fit any menu or celebration, and it is perfect for those who don’t have stand mixers.

Maple Pralines

Leftover nuts? Last minute gift? Just craving something sweet RIGHT NOW? Maple pralines are the answer. 5 ingredients and less than 20 minutes standing next to your stove will yield slightly crunchy, mouthwatering pralines that will be gone just as fast as your second batch can cook. This recipe can be altered to achieve richer flavors by selecting a higher grade of maple syrup, adding a shot of your favorite bourbon or whiskey, or selecting your favorite nut in substitution for the pecans. Clean out your pantry and reward yourself with a few candies once  your done!       …

“Comfort” Eggnog

A seasonal favorite that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Traditionally, rum is the liquor used in many eggnog recipes. Feel free to use whichever rum, brandy, or bourbon you prefer.   This recipe came from a little booklet that’s from the late 60s early 70s

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

I’ve never really been a fan of beef stroganoff until I played with this recipe. Making it without the use of the onion soup mix was probably the very reason I fell in love with this recipe. It is now a family favorite. You can make this in the slow cooker or a pressure cooker. Adjust time to the equipment you choose.

Sweet Angel On a Devilish Cloud

In Greek mythology, pomegranates were used to trick the goddess, Persephone, into becoming the queen of the underworld. With this dessert, you can tell the story of a sweet girl turned dark and bitter within the clouds. Though most people see the pomegranate as bad due to this story, it actually has many properties that are good! Pomegranate arils are often used for abundance, fertility, and luck. So why not give a guest, friend, or lover a taste of good intentions?

Blackberry Yogurt mousse bars

I made this to show you that you can make it with just about any flavor of yogurt. I was not able to find good Blackberries for the top but you could use frozen if you wanted to as long as you drain and dry them before adding them to the top of the mousse. Have fun with try a different crumb for the bottom or try a different flavor of yogurt.

Alexander Cocktail

This cocktail is known as an Alexander and may contain brandy or gin. For this recipe, I have substituted with Southern Comfort, but you may use any brandy or gin that you enjoy. Creamy and rich, this cocktail is the definition of decadence.

Oven Baked Stew

When I think of beef stew, I think of low and slow in a crockpot for many hours. This recipe gives the same tender and savory comfort meal without the long hours. Of course, if you would like to make this in a crockpot, you absolutely can. Just add the meat, flour, stock, or water, and the seasonings to the crockpot for the first several hours. Then add the vegetables in for at least the last hour. The original recipe for this came off the back of a box of Lipton mix. Those packages are so full of salt and …

Sweet and Spicy Caribbean Slaw

Add some flair to this American classic with a hint of spice and some tropical fruit. This is a very simple recipe with amazing flavors!  Pairs well with any grilled protein or served on top of a burger or hot dog.  Give it a try.  It will change the way you think about coleslaw!

Strawberry Banana Muffins

This recipe was blackberry muffins but I instead changed it all up since I don’t like blackberries, and to be honest, I was a bit skeptical about the change I thought I wasn’t gonna be able to make it work since I had to change it but fortunate me I was able to make it work and it turned out great I have had a change-up recipe but I always have been afraid of the outcome of the flavors, you know sometimes when you change something up you have to be able to make sure of the flavors combination you …

Zucchini Fried Cakes

This kind of recipe was challenging have never done something like this with vegetables, and i had fun with it! And it was actually pretty good my son liked it and he is a picky child.

Maple Divinity

A simple but delicious sweet treat will put a smile on everyone’s face.     CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 while visiting the various producers I picked up a bunch of recipe pages on all sorts of categories that were put out by Eat Smart New York which is part of the Cornell Cooperative Extension. These pages were funded by them and the …

Maple Walnut Cake

This maple cake is the best way to welcome the fall season. It is a fancy but homey cake that you can enjoy every fall or anytime. Here it is pictured with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting         CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 while visiting the various producers I picked up a bunch of recipe pages on all sorts of categories …

Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

A sweet and creamy frosting with the taste of the fall from the maple syrup.     CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 while visiting the various producers I picked up a bunch of recipe pages on all sorts of categories that were put out by Eat Smart New York which is part of the Cornell Cooperative Extension. These pages were funded by them …

Schnitzel Tacos

This recipe is a twist off of a Milanese veal steak. I switched to a more classic Schnitzel using pork chops but veal steak will also work making them Wiener Schnitzel Tacos.  Did you know Wiener Schnitzel has been dated all the way back to the 19th century and originates from Austria but was made famous in German cuisine. All of the best German flavors are here with the traditional roasted potatoes and lemon cream sauce with the well known red cabbage slaw to top it all off.

Mediterranean Green Bean Salad

A super flavorful and healthy side dish that pairs well with just about any sandwich or grilled protein. This dish is also chock-full of nutrients and probiotics. This recipe can easily be altered by adding in items such as artichoke hearts, olives or a cured meat to make it a one dish meal.

Lemon Pineapple Pie

Even though I don’t like pies I made it and to tell you guys it was delish I love the combination of the flavors and the texture even better.

Southern Chow Chow

Chow chow is a relish made from green tomatoes, onions, cabbage, and bell peppers. It was started as a way to utilize those unripened tomatoes after frost started. Chow chow is sometimes confused with piccalilli which is another style of relish but with more of a variety of vegetables. It is suggested chow-chow originates from the French word Chou for cabbage. This relish is great on anything savory such as burgers, hot dogs, mixed into fried rice for a southern twist, or topped onto a southern corn salad.    

Ginger Cake with Red Wine Pear Sauce

This recipe reminds me of when I was a child. We would go to my grandpa’s house where there were plenty of fruit trees around. I remember this pear tree, in particular, we would pick pears and fill our faces that entire day. I like the addition of the wine-poached pears because it allows you to embrace those childhood memories as an adult. This dessert is perfect for impressing a small group of friends or family. You’ll love this ginger cake even better once the cake absorbs the red wine pear sauce. This dessert can also be transformed. You can …

Maple Ginger Glow Cake

When you read the recipe title you may think ..this is gonna be difficult to make and take up a lot of time, but it is a very easy recipe to follow and it really does not take that long to make. I have a silicone castle cake pan that I have been wanting to use, so I used it to bake my cake. I was really pleased with how it turned out. Once it was done I drizzled the icing on top and sprinkled it with the toasted coconut. This cake would make a great addition to any fall/autumn …

Beef Brisket with Buttered Noodles

My son and my neighbor were the first people to taste this meal.  My son told me that it was delicious. I know it was a hearty meal for him because he is a very healthy growing young man.  My neighbor told me that it was ok. He cooks as well so he was a bit critical about the dish.  I do know that I cooked a successful dish.

Buffalo Wings

My family LOVES wings, and these buffalo wings are no exception. Whether you’re enjoying them on gameday or just making them for family dinner, these wings are sure to please the crowd. Dipping them in blue cheese or ranch is wonderful way to cool the heat and add some extra flavor. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I did!

Pumpkin Custard Dessert

This custard is one of the classics….It is simply delicious. The recipe is very easy to follow and it bakes up bubbly and golden brown. And the aroma that fills your house as it is baking  is another added bonus. Top it with whipped cream and enjoy!!!!

Ham En Gelee Deconstructed

When making the ham, I fried the ham and used the grease to make the gravy for the Ham En Gelee. I’m from the South and I decided to serve it with ham & rice. The dinner turned out really well. I’m not usually a fan of gravy myself, but I enjoyed it. As did the rest of my family. This recipe began as a jello mold type dish circa 1970s so I was told to make it modern and bring it into the now. This is what the jellied version looks like and the recipe it came from. The …

Caramel Apple Cupcakes

At first, this was supposed to be an apple cake, but I decided to do cupcakes instead, because when I bake I take my treats to my husband’s work, so it’s much easier to make cupcakes than a cake. They give me feedback on what was wrong or what is good about them. They are my best test subjects. The apple cupcakes were a hit.

Zucchini Bread

I remember when my husband was stationed in Hawaii years ago, my neighbor and her husband use to make zucchini bread. I remember how amazing it would smell as it was baking. They would always bring some over, and it was really good. I have said for years that I would bake my own, but I never have until now. I always thought it  would be difficult to make but it wasn’t. It was actually very easy. This recipe is very easy to follow and it makes very good zucchini bread. The recipe makes 2 loaf pans, I love miniature …

Maple Pecan Scones

This is my first time making scones, and I was very pleased with the outcome. I thought it would be more difficult to make scones. It wasn’t, the recipe was simple and easy to follow. I can’t wait to try them with some different flavored jellies and preserves!!   CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 while visiting the various producers I picked up a …

Beans

I am not a pinto bean fan but I really enjoyed this recipe. It reminds me of my mom’s chili, so I served it with saltines. You could also top with cheese or serve with some type of bread.

Maple Kisses

I have never made any type of candy before. This was new and exciting for me to prepare. I love doing new recipes. This reminded me of a sweet Werther’s Originals caramel candy     CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 while visiting the various producers I picked up a bunch of recipe pages on all sorts of categories that were put out by …

Zucchini Cake

This recipe brought back memories of being in the kitchen with my mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother, baking zucchini bread together. Four generations all doing their part and coming together to make something delicious. Zucchini cake is a wonderful recipe that not everyone would think tastes as good as it does. I paired this one with a quick cream cheese icing but it tastes amazing plain as well. I hope you enjoy it. Happy Baking!

Maple Nut Fudge

I have always been fond of maple syrup and loved the maple taffy that my Papa would bring me when I was little. this maple fudge has a very similar flavor as the taffy I ate growing up did, they even both have nuts! Most flavors and smells are tied to memories for me as I grew up in a family that was always cooking or baking something. I hope that you can create memories with this and many more recipes, memories that will come to mind with every future bite. Happy candy-making!     CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed …

Snickerdoodles

My family absolutely loved these cookies, they couldn’t stop eating them. I had to swipe two for myself before they polished them off. With such a simple and easy recipe to follow, I honestly did not think that they would turn out so good. So whip up a batch , pour a glass of milk or make yourself a cup of coffee and enjoy!!!

Vermont Maple Cream

I have never made Vermont Maple Cream before. It turned out great and reminded me of a mountain family vacation we took. I made toast to put the Vermont maple cream on. This would be perfect on pancakes as well.     CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 while visiting the various producers I picked up a bunch of recipe pages on all sorts …

Maple Candy Crunch

This maple candy has a wonderfully light crunch from the rice crispies and makes for a wonderful dessert. You can eat this by itself or crumble it up on top of vanilla ice cream to add some flavor to your frozen treat. Any way that you eat this, if you like maple, you’re sure to love this recipe.   CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In …

Maple Egg Custard

This recipe took me back to my great-grandmother’s kitchen where she would make all sorts of desserts to keep us sugared up on our visits. One such dessert was her egg custard. She made the best egg custard I have ever had, and even with her recipe, I feel I still cannot do it justice.  I hope that you enjoy eating this as much as I enjoyed making it and that with it and many other recipes, you create memories of your own tied to the dishes you create.   CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for …

Brownies

These brownies were so good , they were moist and very chocolatey. I have made a lot of brownies ,and used several different recipes. I really think this one is one of the best. It is a very easy recipe to follow ,and they bake up beautifully. My son loves these brownies, he said ,” Mom I think these are the best brownies you have ever made”!!  

Apricot-Coconut Cookie Bars

If you enjoy gooey delicious fruit bars, this recipe is for you. I’ve added ground oats to the pastry, which gives it a slightly heartier consistency, mixed in apricot preserves with the chopped apricots to spread on top of the baked pastry, and added sliced almonds to the coconut mixture to give the bars a little crunch. To make these bars just a little more special, I’ve topped them with drizzled white chocolate, diced apricots, and chopped sliced almonds. Your family and friends won’t be able to resist!

Veal Goulash

I love mushrooms and onions. So when I read this recipe I was excited to try it. I have never had veal before and I think it turned out delicious. I made beef flavored rice to go with my goulash. It can be served be itself with a side of bread or as a meat with side dishes like rice or noddles or mash potatoes. This recipe originated in Hungary but has been influenced in other countries.

Banana Cream Cheese Pie

Looking for a cool, summer dessert? This will go great with a simple family meal or it will be sure to wow your dinner party guests…..and their taste buds! This pie covers several components of any modern, classic dessert. Starting with a sweet, crumbly, and crunchy crust, with a light and airy filling and finally, topped with a melt-in-your-mouth garnishing of caramelized bananas. This will surely be a crowd-pleaser!

Peanut Butter Cookies

I wanted to add additional peanut butter flavor to these cookies, so I added peanut butter chips to the batter. I scooped the dough using a small scoop, which was fun and helped keep them all the same size. When the cookies were done, I drizzeld melted peanut butter chips on top with a little sprinkeling of chopped peanuts. Delicuous! This recipe made about 2 dozen cookies.

Blueberry Maple Mousse Parfait

Once I discovered maple mousse I knew I had to try this with other flavor profiles! First thing that came to mind were blueberry pancakes. So why not a blueberry maple mousse parfait? This turned out so much tastier than I imagined! The mousse was nice and creamy, the pancakes were fluffy and the bacon gave the whole thing a nice crunchy texture. In every bite you received that nice blueberry pancake with maple syrup and bacon flavor. The mousse made it seem like a sweet treat but this parfait would be good for a meal or snack.   CandiAnne’s …

Strawberry-Peach with Pineapple

A blast of the Tropics will envelop your mouth and wake up your taste buds, with this sweet, refreshing summer treat! The familiar flavors of strawberry and peach, coupled with the tang of one of my favorite tropical fruits, the pineapple! This will look beautiful, served in glass dishes, with a pineapple reduction sauce, drizzled over the top, and with a strawberry and peach slice, to garnish! You could also easily infuse one of the two elements of this cool dessert, with white rum, as a treat for adult gatherings!

Raspberry Fanfare

This recipe can be a little tricky because you have to let the gelatin set enough to where you can layer it, but make sure that it hasn’t set too much as well. If you’re not quite sure how to go about that you can test a little in a small dish til your happy with it. This one is definitely worth the hassle though! This is nice and creamy with the perfect amount of raspberry and lemon flavors.

Luscious Lime Pie

This no-bake lime pie was a big hit around the house and it was a lot of fun to make as well. It has that fresh lime aroma and the pretty green color just makes it look so appetizing and I can promise you it tastes as good as it looks!

Old Fashioned Sugar Cookies

This is a really yummy recipe for an old-fashioned sugar cookie. These are really easy to whip up and bake, but unlike today’s sugar cookies they are not made to roll out. The dough has a lot of moisture and gets very sticky thanks to the sweetened condensed milk. You want to keep the dough as cold as possible before baking to help with that! I really enjoy this recipe because it’s meant to be all about the cookie. You could decorate them with some buttercream or royal icing if you wanted, but it’s not necessary. These cookies are great …

No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

I love cheesecake and there is nothing better than a quick no-bake recipe. The worst part is waiting for the cheesecake and glaze to firm up enough to eat it! This cheesecake has all your favorite parts. The graham cracker crust, the yummy cheesecake filling, and a fresh and flavorful strawberry glaze. This glaze is a big hit with my family and friends that I use on all of my baked and no-bake cheesecakes.

Simple Maple Bread Pudding

I love a good bread pudding. As a kid, I remember baking bread pudding with my grandfather and it was always a fun and tasty experience. This maple bread pudding doesn’t disappoint. The aroma from the maple syrup and walnuts just filled my house and we couldn’t wait to try it! This is a very moist and fluffy bread pudding with a perfect amount of maple and walnut flavor that pair so well together. This is a recipe that I will keep handy for future use.

Peanut Butter Fruit Squares

If you’re looking for something that’s a little healthier than the average dessert, this is a great recipe for that. These are packed full of peanut butter, cranberries, raisins, and almonds. This is a great recipe to whip up anytime for a quick snack or to make ahead. I wrapped up half the batch and froze it for later.

Nut Caramels

I use to love caramels as a kid, but these are something I haven’t seen around much as an adult. When I came across this recipe I was excited to give it a try. I’ve never seen a nut caramel before but it sounded delicious. These are soft and chewy and packed full of caramel flavor with a nice crunch and added flavor from the nuts. The drizzled chocolate is just a great bonus that makes them even tastier and more elegant.

Hermie’s Cherry Jello

A simple sweet jello recipe that I am sure will have you wanting more. It’s a combination of cherry jello, cranberries, and sour cream.  The combination of the sweetness of the cranberries and the sourness of the sour cream makes this recipe a hit.   CandiAnne’s Note: Hermie was my cousin’s neighbor when I was a small child. She and her husband Art either never had children or were empty nesters, I was 9 and younger and I don’t recall them ever talking about such things. I use to go over and ride a tricycle they had and play Pacheco …

Kashmiri Rice

This dish was absolutely delicious. I am not a huge fan of many rice dishes, but this recipe is easy and definitely worth a try.

Pagan-Wiiagiminan (Maple Nuts)

Nuts are healthy and filling.  They are versatile and can be eaten as a snack, appetizer, or mixed into a main or side dish.  Personally, I love nuts, I haven’t tasted one I don’t like.  Here is a simple way to lightly sweeten nuts with maple sugar.  The results are lightly sweetened walnuts and hazelnuts that are hard to stop eating.  The leftover syrup tastes great over pancakes or can be used anywhere else you would use maple syrup.

Maple Syrup Frosting

This frosting can be difficult to work with and looks much thicker in the photo than it actually is. It has a great flavor and is fit for many styles of cake. Here it’s used on Pecan Maple Cake  

Maple Granola Snack

This very easy-to-make sweet treat adds a delightfully chewy and crunchy bite to your breakfast yogurt, parfaits, or as a snack by itself.   *This granola can be stored in an air-tight container in the freezer.   CandiAnne’s Note: We were stationed at Fort Drum, NY for 4 1/2 years and maple weekend is a huge thing there. You can visit numerous producers, taste their wares, and grab some syrup or other goodies on your way out. In 2007 while visiting the various producers I picked up a bunch of recipe pages on all sorts of categories that were put …

Orange Infused Cream Cheese Glaze

This orange infused cream cheese glaze is sweet with just the right amount of tang!  This glaze is a welcoming addition to many cakes! Here it is used on an Orange and Pineapple Poppyseed Cake

Apricot Coconut Balls

No-bake snacks and desserts are great to keep on hand for busy days and hungry kids (or husbands).  This one is great because it is quick and simple, with only 3 ingredients.  The dried apricots are just tart enough to balance out the sweetness of the coconut and condensed milk. Have fun and dress them up with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate.  YUM!

Pierogi

I’ve never had the pleasure to have pierogi before. They are soft and tender dumpling-like envelopes filled with your choice of savory or sweet, pan-fried in butter to perfection. Here I’ve given you a few different fillings to think about, get creative and have fun making these. *This recipe is for a small batch*

Roast Pork Loin

This is a very simple yet very flavorful dish. The tender and savory meat can be served casually with corn and mashed potatoes as a hearty dinner for the family or as the main course in an extravagant dinner. My family enjoyed this meal and didn’t leave any leftovers!   *For best results, marinate over night.

Old-Time Maple Gingerbread

When fall gets close you start hearing of all things pumpkin spice.  One of those warming spices included in pumpkin spice is ginger.  Ginger is versatile and can be used in savory and sweet cuisine, it has many health benefits, including aiding digestion.  Traditionally in the fall and around the holidays, gingerbread cookies are a mainstay.  This maple gingerbread is a wonderful way to get your gingerbread fix.  It’s simple and easy and bakes up in less than an hour.  Drizzle the warmed maple hard sauce over it and you have a great finish to any meal.

Apricot-Coconut Cookie Bars

These Apricot-Coconut Cookie Bars are a scrumptious, ooey-gooey, delicious treat. They have a shortbread-type crust, and the delicious chewy apricot and coconut just explode flavor in your mouth.  This recipe would be great for potlucks, holidays, picnics, or just a guilty pleasure snack. They don’t take long to whip up a batch, but taste like you have worked hours in the kitchen. There are many different flavors you could use if apricot and coconut are not for you. Try cranberry and orange, or cranberry with dark or white chocolate, also try using figs or raisins and any type of nuts. …

Italian Pot Roast

Over the weekend, I had such a tremendous cooking experience in my unit’s kitchenette making Italian Pot Roast, all while trying to deal with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Henri. Yet, with much love and patience, I spent my evening prepping a delectable meal for the family and me. I have to say the pot roast was tender, paired well with multigrain rotini pasta for those like myself with dietary restrictions. I even had time to make an Arugula with lettuce salad dressed with olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. As an appetizer, I toasted Fresh Italian bread; seasoned …

Walnut Applesauce Cupcakes

Who loves applesauce? I love applesauce! This simple yet hearty recipe will appeal to the applesauce-loving kid in all of us! I normally don’t change recipes but for this one I added brown sugar instead of white to give it small but healthier touch. Be careful not to overmix and dry the batter out.  If you are like me you may be tempted to fill the liners to make more full cupcakes but trust me you won’t need to. The rise on these is perfect.  I enjoyed the smell of these as they baked! Smells like the holidays in your …

Strawberry Angel Food Dessert

This recipe brings back so many nostalgic memories of growing up for me. This dessert was a staple at every family get-together I had growing up. It was there at weddings, at reunions, and bbq’s all summer long. It has that light, airy, fluffy feeling in your mouth and so many different ways to mix it up. Over the years I have used different flavors of Jello and fruits to change it up. You can dress it up and use a bundt pan or angel food pan to prepare it, or as a casserole in a 9×12 pan. No matter …

Crab Cakes

If you are a seafood lover, you must try these crab cakes! They are delightful, with a tender center and a crisp outer layer. The flavors are mild and the texture is somewhat soft and chewy. These amazing cakes serve hungry customers and family members as an appetizer or even as an entre. Perhaps along side a steak for a nice surf and turf dinner. Crab cakes are very popular and there are great reasons for that. Enjoy!

Deviled Crab

Deviled crabs are the perfect appetizer or a pleasant addition to any seafood feast with other fresh items from your local market. Deviled crabs have a great punch of flavor while maintaining a remarkable balance. Surprisingly, this dish is not spicy as the ingredients might elude. Similar to the crab cake the center is very tender and the outer layer forms a slight crispy layer. Give this a try and experience the pleasure.

Hamburger Cabbage Bake

Bisquick; the classic and easy baking mix with tons of versatile lunch, dinner, and baking recipes. I got this recipe from an old General Mills recipe and took it up a notch. I had such fun and nostalgic childhood memories that took me back to when I would create all these wacky baked goods for my sisters and me in our toaster oven. Forgive me, mom, for almost burning the whole building down that one time. Oops! Since the ONLY one at home that eats cabbage, especially coleslaw, I took the hamburger cabbage recipe to a whole other level by …

Pumpkin Crunch with Maple Cinnamon Glaze

It is that time of year again and I love all things Autumn…the colors, the cool evenings, and the smells.  Also it brings out the desire for pumpkin flavored everything. This recipe does not disappoint. It has all the flavors of Autumn and the feeling of comfort food at its best. This delicious dessert is like eating a flavorful pumpkin pie, a moist fluffy cake, and a delicious maple nut roll, all in one bite.  It is very easy to just throw together and it will taste like you spent hours in the kitchen making this masterpiece.

Peas, Rice, Ham and Cheese Salad

This hearty salad is sure to please. Enjoy it for lunch, supper or even as a snack. It has a nice texture and flavor balance of salty, sweet, creamy, crunchy and finished with the all powerful creamy garlic dressing. This salad packs a punch served all alone or even as a side. This was my first time creating this dish and it was very good. The next day, I used the remaining dish (without the dressing) and prepared it like a stir fry with sesame oil, Teriyaki and fish sauce. I added almonds to it to give it more body. …

Cubano Snack Spread (Next Level Ham and Cheese Spread)

For this recipe, I was making Cubano sandwiches. I always smoke my ham just because you can do so much with it. Once smoked, I cut a portion off and grated it up for this recipe. I also did the same with a roasted Mojo Pork shoulder. Ham and cheese elevated to an entirely different level! This is for the most committed appetizer lover. If you bring this to the party, no one will know the dedication that it took to make tastebuds jump like this however everyone will want to know what party you’re cooking for next. The nice …

Maple Walnut Cheesecake With Winter Raspberry Fruit Glaze

This dessert definitely screams happy holidays! It’s not time constricting and it’s easy to make. A few things to know about this recipe;  cornstarch is the best substitute for arrowroot! the biggest difference between the two is arrowroot freezes and thaws without change so if you can’t find arrowroot you do have hope! Another thing to weigh out is maple syrup vs maple extract, the extract gives the maple its flavor and is much stronger than the syrup. I wondered about using fresh fruit since it was going to have to defrost the fruit anyway, however, I found that frozen …

Maple Sponge Cake

Perfect for tea time, a snack, or dessert. This cake really is very versatile and is absolutely delicious. I have made many sponge cakes in my 30+ years of baking. This maple sponge cake has by far been the easiest one I have ever made. The steps are easy to follow and the results give you a delicious airy sponge that you are proud of. You can put a simple glaze over it, dust with confectioner’s sugar, you can slice in half and fill with fresh whip cream and berries, or use a fruit filling or top with some vanilla …

Baked Carmel Apple Corn

This recipe reminds me a lot of harvest parties and having fun with family and friends. I recommend having this at your next get together, whether it is game night, movie night, or an office party I am sure it will be a big hit.

Maple-Pecan Butter

This recipe is the perfect building block for anything from pancakes to any flavor of bread. I chose to show this on a pumpkin bread as we are coming into the fall and well who doesn’t love pumpkin bread. Silky, smooth with a little crunch a great addition to almost anything.

Maple Pepper Butter And Glaze

This recipe is one of those recipes that can open your mind to the many different ways that you can take something simple and make anything and everything amazing. I added this butter recipe to some spaghetti squash and it was a perfect blend of a hint of sweetness to enhance the buttery goodness of the squash. Please use this recipe to open the gates of what you can put it on. It is a perfect balance of sweet and a little lemon. You’ll eat the butter straight and that’s ok, mainly because I did it and that’s what I …

Maple Nutmeg Butter

This creamy delight will certainly bring a high level of satisfaction to anything you care to explore. The beauty of the flavor balance between nutmeg and maple is remarkable. It takes me to my childhood, and to holidays filled with joy. For those long cold winter nights, try this nice and warm adult beverage. Add very hot apple cider, dark spiced rum, and maple nutmeg butter. Top off with a whipped cream and garnish with nutmeg. Have fun creating new and exciting recipes with this butter.

Cinnamon Maple Butter

It is impossible to not relish in the superior flavors of butter, maple syrup and cinnamon.  Whipped to perfection, they marry right before your eyes. This butter is so versatile, it can be added to a sweet potato, or used to make a streusel that will top ice cream or your favorite cake. Bake on top of your best piece of salmon or simply add it to your breakfast bagel. Enjoy the pure wonder of this butter.

Easy Maple Cranberry Butter and Cookies.

Cranberries are both sweet and tart in its’ flavor profile. Maple syrup is a complex flavor known for its’ hints of caramel and vanilla. Pairing these two ingredients creates a dynamic layer of flavors on the tastebuds. Now imagine making quick and simple butter with minimal ingredients creating a burst of possibilities to your palette? The ability to easily execute both a maple syrup butter and Cranberry Maple Butter, which is sweet condensed jelly. That’s precisely the experience I want to bring you as a Culinary artist. And in such, I made a few tweaks, like adding Mexican vanilla beans …

Chocolate Cake

Chocolate cake is a staple in the dessert world. I mean who doesn’t love chocolate cake right? When I was preparing for this dessert I was watching my favorite show and drew some inspiration for this cake. I decided to make one using Ghiradelli chocolate chips and I followed it with a dark chocolate cocoa powder for the second cake.  So this inspiration I was telling you about actually came with the frosting! The smaller cake is where I used the chocolate chips which gave the cake a richer taste, I paired it with the maple walnut frosting…  It seemed …

Chilies and Cheese Rice

Mix some California green chilies, fluffy rice, gooey Monterey, and what do you get? An easy cheesy peasy rice dinner. I tweaked the recipe and turned this chili and cheese rice dish into rice cakes with an ingenious hack, baking it in a jumbo-sized cupcake pan.  A comforting dish made simple for any mealtime, whether on a relaxing rainy Sunday afternoon or getting in the door late from a progressive day of work or school.  This recipe is an explosion of flavors that pops with a well-elevated amount of heat on the palette, between the gooey grated Monterey cheese and …

Cilantro Creole Chicken and Rice

Love the deep soul flavor of your grandma’s Creole chicken? Love fresh? Here’s grandma’s Creole Chicken with a twist of freshness? Soul with fresh, or as I state it “fresh soul” it’s the new trend for those willing to try (yes my kids roll their eyes when I told them that joke as well.) However, once you try this you can send me a thank you card!

Tuna Burger with Spicy Mayo

Here is a new twist to an old classic. My family loves tuna salad sandwiches and this gave a new and exciting change. It is perfect for lent or if you just want to avoid red meat and change things up just a bit, I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family did.

Maple Nut Fudge

I get a very nostalgic feeling when I think of fudge. I watched my grandmother make all kinds of fudge over the years with such ease, and every time it came out so delicious, smooth, and creamy. I have tried, and had many failed attempts over the years at making fudge, so I decided to give it a try again when given this recipe. I am completely amazed at how easy it was to make. It is absolutely every bit as delicious as the fudge my grandmother used to make. It is smooth and silky, and the toasted pecans gave …

Radish Stir-Fry

Three supermarkets and a few produce stores later, I found all ingredients for this light, bright with a bite stir-fry. The recipe didn’t call for oyster sauce,  lemongrass, or ginger, but these ingredients add peppery spice and acidic assertive flavors, converting it into an unforgettable dish. Gosh, I remember the first time I tried doing a stir-fry. It was a delightful mash of vegetables because I didn’t have my heat at the right temperature and used way too much oil. However, this radish recipe with green onions turned out perfect. It was fulfilling, crisp in bite, with umami, and a …

Magic Cookie Bars

Yummy yummy yummy you’ll love these magic bars in your tummy! In these magic cookie bars, you have found the ultimate comfort dessert and a treat for the ages! The coconut and nut pieces add some crunch to the sweetness of the chocolate and condensed milk. One of the best things about this is it’s an easy fix and yields enough for parties and friends. This recipe is one you can really have fun with.  As for myself, I used oatmeal flakes and even added some m&ms and heath bars to give it the sweetness it deserves. Take your time …

Flank Steak Bordelaise

Imagine taking a bite of a perfectly seasoned steak with so much flavor that you never want to stop chewing. Well, now take a sauce that is so good you will mistake it for your new favorite drink. Combine both the sauce and the steak and you have a perfect dinner. Throw in some veggies and starch of choice and you can once again thank me later for this moving up the list of being one of the best dishes. It’s so good that you can impress anyone and everyone, go ahead it’s a lock-in dinner for impressing that first …

Pineapple Fluff Dessert

This sweet summertime dessert is cool and creamy, and wonderful on its own or all dressed up. I have made it in a souffle dish as well as in ramekins along with a variety of toppings for my guests to make each their own. It has the most amazing fresh pineapple flavor. It has that soft, fluffy, smooth taste and I have made it for many potlucks, church luncheons, baby showers, and parties for years. You will love this recipe and so will your loved ones. Some topping choices are maraschino cherries, toasted pecans, coconut, banana, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, …

Oven-Baked Beef Ragout

This dish was very simple in it’s design, but it needed just a dash of sprucing! Some advise for parents flying solo: make this when the chaos is at its minimum, for the sauce gods demand your undivided attention. I say that because our home runs on Loki energy, so there was much fire manipulation to avoid disasters. Sauces are something that I absolutely adore, and the original recipe had an extremely user-friendly sauce that could become a stroganoff of sorts with the addition of sour cream. That sounded like an amazing idea, but on purpose sounded better, and a …

Maple Bread Pudding

I’m a sucker for a good bread pudding, let’s start there. It’s the European in me, and some things are worth it. This had to be revamped bit, so it’s an actual bread pudding, and it came out…well, you be the judge!!! I doubled the recipe, and let the bread get a bit stale before I started, which made a huge difference. Ok, let’s do this!

Maple Kisses

These maple kisses have an almost crunch texture to the candy but a smoothness thanks to the butter and are an awesome holiday gift jarred up or put into a holiday can.

Spinach Quiche

I…must admit defeat. This recipe came to me hand-written, and lovingly notated throughout. The crust recipe portion is now the new bane of my existence, and I am sad. Rarely has a crust triumphed over my stubbornness, but the lovely CandiAnne had to pull my tail out of the fire with this one. Her crust recipe is pretty epic, and I’m happy to share it. Ok, aside from the colossal crust crisis, this is a super yum, and easy, recipe to make. The seasonings are lightly, so please play with what your palette craves. I’m hooked on smoked paprika, so …