Valentine’s Day Recipes
Snowballs
The cookie itself is lightly sweet and similar to a pecan sandie. A dusting of confectioner’s sugar provides the finishing touch of flavor and looks so pretty, too. (And for those with allergies–no eggs and a gluten-free option!) In the world of cookies, snowballs are neither cold nor wet, but they do pair well…
Cracker Toffee
Easy to make and quick to disappear, this family-favorite treat is salty, sweet, crispy, buttery, and chocolatey. A variety of optional toppings ramp up the flavor and seasonal appeal! Old recipes have a way of bringing back special memories. And when those old recipes are also very good recipes, they seem to create new memories!…
Italian Ricotta Cookies
These tender, cake-like cookies are topped with an irresistible glaze and look beautiful on a cookie platter. Perfect for special occasions from Christmas and Easter to baby showers. Simply change the color of the sprinkles! Credit for this absolutely delightful cookie recipe goes to my friend, Kalyn, who bakes these gems every holiday season with…
Magic Six Layer Bars (only 6 ingredients!)
This crowd-pleaser comes together in a snap and is perfect for parties, potlucks, bake sales, and holiday cookie platters. Six simple ingredients never tasted so good. See recipe notes for excellent gluten-free adjustment. One of my all-time favorite cookies is my grandmother’s recipe for six layer bars–six simple ingredients, layered in a pan, and…
Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
The time-honored pairing of peanut butter and chocolate is elevated with more peanut butter and a dusting of sea salt in this super simple, salty-sweet recipe that will delight any time of year! Peanut butter and chocolate. What could be better? Perhaps when that peanut butter and chocolate is enrobed in a peanut butter…
No-Bake Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites
Capture the flavors of the season with these no-bake, satisfying bites that come together quickly and offer an option with no added sugars or syrups. Filling protein and fiber. Satiating fats. Warm spices. And pumpkin! These bite-size gems are packed with staying power and seasonal flavor, and a big batch comes together easily thanks…
Flourless Black Bean Brownies
Decadent, fudgy brownies score big points in flavor and texture while delivering a filling dose of fiber and protein. A total dessert win! “I love these brownies because you think they are going to be gross, but they are delicious and nutritious.” Those words, from “Chef E.” age 9, sum up these brownies perfectly. Let’s…
Crunchy Top Strawberry Baked Oatmeal
Red, ripe strawberries highlight this seasonal favorite, which offers make-ahead convenience and countless ways to customize. In a pinch, frozen berries may be used. I clearly remember the first time I served this seasonal addition of my original baked oatmeal recipe. My younger son, who was a rather picky fourth grader at the time, asked…
Grapefruit Gimlet
A delightful balance of sweet and tart, this eye-catching twist on the classic cocktail requires just three simple ingredients. The refreshing drink is also easy to customize with other liquors and flavors, and I’ve included a few of my favorites. Most winters around this time, I begin looking forward to an annual trip to…
Valentine’s Day Food & Fun
A little ingenuity is all that’s needed to make Valentine’s Day feel extra special. From “heart chicken” and red cocktails to clever games and a fun addition to tomato soup, this holiday collection offers something for everyone! 💘 Valentine’s Day is all about showing love to the special people in our lives.…
Pomegranate Martini (with sparkler and mocktail variations)
Fruity yet not overly sweet, this martini is delightfully crisp and refreshing—and not too potent! And ever wonder how to make crushed ice, or better yet, “soft” ice? I’ve included the easy how-to! mar·ti·ni (märˈtēnē): a cocktail made from gin (or vodka) and dry vermouth, typically garnished with an olive or a twist of lemon.…
Cinnamon Toast
Spiced, sweet, crunchy toast is comfort food at its best－and so simple. The trick is to combine the perfectly balanced sugar mixture in advance to warm hearts and stomachs at a moment’s notice. ❤️ Sugar and spice and everything nice. Waking up to the warm aroma of cinnamon toast takes me right…
