Category Archives: Recipes

Hony BAKED HAM

Honey baked pork is juicy, bursting with flavor and boasts a caramelized sugar coating. Although it is not an exact copy of the popular HoneyBaked Ham Store version, I would dare say it is the best honey baked ham you will ever taste – store bought or home made! On top of all that, honey-baked ham costs a fraction of what you’d spend at a HoneyBaked Ham Store – and you don’t have to wait in line or worry about it running out! This glazed ham tastes gourmet but is very easy to make and will impress all your Easter and Christmas guests!

Ingredients :

1 10-pound smoked ham (with added water)

1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup of clover honey

Directions :

Adjust oven racks to fit a large roasting tray. Placing pan on a shallow roast rack. Preheaat oven to 350 degrees F .

Unwrap the pork and rinse it with cold water. Placing it on rack in roast tray. Cover with tin foil and bake for 1 hour and 40 minutes. Meanwhile, combine brown sugar and honey in a saucepan and cook over medium heat until mixture is smooth and sugar has dissolved.

Pour the brown sugar glaze over the pork and continue roasting for another 1 hour and 40 minutes, roasting at least twice and dripping into the roaster. (To adjust total roasting time for smaller or larger hams, calculate 20 minutes per pound.) Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the meat spot (not in the fat or touching the bones)—it should register 160°F.

Let the pork stand 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to run through.

Enjoy !

Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs

Have you ever tried something so delicious you can barely stand it…and something that you’re even more shocked that you actually made. This is one of those recipes. When you make this BEST Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs , you’ll feel like you’ve died and gone to heaven.To Make this Recipe You’ Will Need the following ingredients:

INGREDIENTS:

½ cup ancho chile powder

¼ cup white sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

¼ cup salt

2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dry mustard

1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

½ teaspoon ground dried chipotle pepper

1 rack baby back pork ribs

1 cup barbeque sauce

DIRECTIONS:

Step 1
Preheat oven to 250 degrees F (120 degrees C).
per in a small bowl until combined.

Step 2
Place ribs meat-side down on aluminum foil. Prick back of rib rack several times with a knife.

Step 3
Generously apply coating of dry rub to all sides of rib rack.

Step 4
With rib rack meat-side down, fold foil around it to create a tight seal. Transfer to sheet pan.

Step 5
Bake in preheated oven until tender and cooked through, about 2 hours. Remove and cool 15 minutes.

Step 6
Increase oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 7
Open foil, drain and discard any accumulated juices and fat. Brush barbeque sauce on all sides of rack.

Step 8
Place rack meat-side up and return to oven, leaving foil open. Bake for 10 minutes, remove from oven, and brush another layer of barbeque sauce on meat-side only. Repeat baking and brushing with sauce 4 more times, for a total of 50 minutes baking time.

Step 9
Cut rack into individual rib segments and serve with more barbeque sauce.

Enjoy

Canned Cranberry Junk

In the world of festive culinary delights, Canned Cranberry Junk stands out as a flavorful and convenient option for holiday celebrations. Embracing the spirit of the season, this article will guide you through the process of crafting this delectable dish and highlight its benefits.

What is Canned Cranberry Junk?
Canned Cranberry Junk is a delightful salad that combines the tartness of cranberries, the sweetness of pineapple, and the crunchiness of pecans, all held together by a cherry-flavored gelatin base. It’s a perfect addition to your holiday menu, adding both color and flavor to the festivities.

Ingredients for Canned Cranberry Junk
To prepare this festive dish, gather the following

Ingredients

3 ounces of cherry-flavored gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 cup each of finely chopped cranberries and orange
1/2 cup diced pecans
8 ounces of drained, crushed pineapple (reserve the juice)
1/2 cup liquid (combined reserved pineapple juice and water)

How to Make Canned Cranberry Junk
Start by boiling a cup of water.
In a large pan, dissolve the gelatin in the hot water, ensuring a smooth blend.
Mix in the sugar, lemon juice, and pineapple juice with the gelatin, stirring until fully integrated.

Fold in the chopped cranberries, orange, pecans, and pineapple gently.
Let the salad set by refrigerating it overnight.
Why Choose Canned Cranberry Junk for Holidays
Canned Cranberry Junk offers a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a unique and memorable addition to your holiday feast. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste contribute to the festive atmosphere, delighting both hosts and guests.

Tips for a Perfect Canned Cranberry Junk
Achieving perfection in your Canned Cranberry Junk requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly:

Preparing in Advance for Stress-Free Holidays
Planning ahead is key to a stress-free holiday season. Canned Cranberry Junk can be prepared in advance, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your celebration.

Using Pre-Chopped Pecans for Convenience
Simplify your cooking process by using pre-chopped pecans. This not only saves time but also ensures a consistent texture in every bite of your Canned Cranberry Junk.

Additional Flavor with Blended Cranberries
For an extra burst of flavor, consider blending or processing cranberries and a partly peeled, deseeded orange. This enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Setting the Salad Overnight
Allowing the salad to set overnight in the refrigerator enhances the flavors and ensures a perfect, firm texture when served.

Benefits of Canned Cranberry Junk
Beyond its delicious taste, Canned Cranberry Junk offers several benefits:

Convenience: Easy to prepare and can be made in advance.
Versatility: Fits well into both casual and formal holiday menus.


Colorful Presentation: Adds a vibrant touch to your holiday table.


In conclusion, Canned Cranberry Junk is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration on a plate. With its vibrant colors, refreshing taste, and ease of preparation, it has rightfully earned its place in holiday traditions. Embrace the festive spirit and make this delightful dish a centerpiece of your next celebration.

Every Good (And Bad) Deal At Aldi

If you are European or you have spent time traveling in Europe, then you probably know Aldi. Like any grocery store, however, some items are a steal-of-a-deal, and others that go for more than they’re worth. We’ve done some of the work for you so that you can know what to look for and what to avoid the next time you’re shopping here.

The Best and Worst Deals at Aldi

Aldi store front with green check mark overlay

Aldi is a budget-friendly German grocery store that has gained immense popularity recently due to its affordable prices and high-quality products. While many people swear by Aldi for all their grocery needs, it’s important to know which deals to buy and which ones to skip. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best and worst deals at Aldi.

The Best Deals

1. Fresh produce

Layflat composition of fresh organic vegetables

Aldi’s produce section is an excellent place to find high-quality fruits and vegetables at unbeatable prices.

2. Meat

Different types of raw meat - beef, pork, lamb, chicken on a wooden board.

Aldi’s meat deals are also tough to beat – you can score top-quality meat cuts at significantly lower prices than you will find at other grocery stores.

3. Dairy

Fresh dairy products, milk, cottage cheese, eggs, yogurt, sour cream and butter on wooden table

Aldi’s dairy section provides a variety of fresh cheese, milk, yogurt, and butter at affordable prices. While that sounds great, Milk from Alid may not be the cheapest choice. See why in our “Worst Deal” section below.

4. Eggs

Chicken eggs in sack bag on black background.

Aldi sells eggs for unbeatable prices as compared to other grocery stores, making them the perfect place for all your egg needs.

5. Coffee

Roasted coffee beans background

If you are a coffee lover, Aldi is your go-to place, as they have various coffee blends available at affordable prices.

6. Bread

Sliced white bread on wooden board

Aldi’s bakery section offers a variety of freshly baked bread, including sourdough, rye, and multi-grain at unbeatable prices.

7. Frozen Foods

POZNAN, POL - MAR 09, 2021: Food products put up for sale in a commercial refrigerator

These frozen items often go on sale, and you’ll find different options available, including pizzas, vegetables, meals, and desserts.

8. Cereal

Variety of cold cereals, quick breakfast for kids overhead shot

Aldi sells numerous cereal brands at a lower rate than its competitors.

9. Chocolate

A lot of pieces dark chocolate

Aldi has premium chocolates that cost a lot less than other grocery stores.

10. Wine

White wine pouring into glasses, closeup

Aldi is also an excellent option for wine lovers who don’t have to spend a lot on a good bottle of wine.

11. Household essentials

Various cleaning items and supplies in a bucket on the bathroom floor

Aldi sells various household essentials that include tissues, toilet paper, and other cleaning supplies at a lower rate than its competitors.

12. Almond Butter

Almond nut butter in glass jar. Homemade raw organic almond nuts paste on grey background. Healthy natural food concept. Top view.

Aldi sells their private label brand of almond butter for a great price, which is incredibly tasty.

13. Chips

2264484105

Aldi has low-cost chips that are perfect for a movie night snack.

14. Chocolate Chips

Chocolate chips background
Credit: Shutterstock

Aldi carries bags of chocolate chips that are good quality and favorable prices.

15. Baby wipes

Beautiful Asian mother is wiping her newborn baby mouth gently by cloth diaper while the child is crawling on the bed. Touch of mother's love concept.

Aldi offers great prices for a large amount of baby wipes for your little one.

16. Canned beans

Bowl of cooked beans in tomato sauce

Aldi offers a can of beans that is often comparable in price to their dry bean counterparts.

17. Toilet paper

People are stocking up toilet paper for home quarantine from coronavirus. Woman holds many rolls of toilet paper
Credit: Shutterstock

Aldi offers a sustainable option for toilet paper at a great price.

18. Snack bars

granola bars

Aldi carries a variety of snack bars such as granola bars and protein bars that won’t break the bank.

19. Snack mix

Salty snacks. Pretzels, chips, crackers in wooden bowls. Unhealthy products. food bad for figure, skin, heart and teeth. Assortment of fast carbohydrates food.

Aldi has a fantastic snack mix that’s a great item for on-the-go.

20. Salad kits

Salad in plastic bag for health.

Aldi’s salad kits are fresh and inexpensive, and make it easier for people to save some effort while being healthy.

The Worst Deals

Aldi store front with red X mark overlay

1. Spices

Variety of spices and herbs on kitchen table.

Aldi’s spices can often be more expensive than a bulk purchase of spices from another grocery store or wholesale shop.

2. Baking ingredients

Baking ingredients and kitchen utensils on a white background top view. Baking background. Flour, eggs, sugar, spices, and a whisk on the kitchen table. Flat lay.

Aldi’s baking ingredients can be cheaper depending on regular supermarkets’ prices.

3. Organic produce

Organic vegetables for sale on display in the supermarket

While Aldi has some excellent deals on fresh produce, their organic produce is often more expensive than other grocery chain stores.

4. Condiments

barbecue sauces in glass bottles on white background

Aldi’s condiments can vary in price and sometimes end up more expensive.

5. Specialty items

Los Angeles, California, United States - 05-20-2022: A view of a variety of specialty groceries, on display at a local grocery store.

If you are looking for a high-end, specialty item, it’s better off to shop at other grocery stores.

6. Supplements

Closeup photo of supplements with a white bottle. Pregnant woman take omega 3, multivitamins, vitamins B, C, D, collagen tablets, probiotics, iron capsule. Girl hold vitamins daily. Top view.

Aldi’s supplement prices are sometimes comparable to other discount retailers but could cost more than purchasing directly from a brand or specialty store.

7. Candles

Handmade scented candles in a glass with a wooden lid. Soy wax candles with a wooden wick.

Aldi’s candle prices might not be truly affordable if compared to Amazon pricing for candles.

8. Beverages

smoothies

Aldi’s beverage choices can be extensive, but they might not be the optimal choice when compared to large chain retailers such as Walmart or Target.

9. Gluten-free bread

Sales Assistant In Bakery Putting Gluten Free Label Into Freshly Baked Baked Sourdough Loaves Of Bread

Aldi’s gluten-free bread prices can often be more expensive than other available gluten-free options.

10. Snack-size fruit

fruits mix in supermarket plastic pack on white background

While Aldi carries a good variety of fruit, the snack-size fruit packages can be more expensive than purchasing the fruit loose.

11. Chocolate-covered nuts

chocolate covered nuts and raisins background

Aldi’s chocolate-covered nuts are great, but they might not be a compatible bargain if compared to purchasing in bulk at a big box store.

12. Pre-made meals

ready made meal

Aldi’s pre-made meals can be more expensive than purchasing fresh ingredients in other grocery stores.

13. Oats

Rolled oats, healthy breakfast cereal oat flakes in bowl on wooden table

Aldi’s oat prices can be more expensive if compared to your local grocery store or wholesale shopping.

14. Laundry detergent

Against background of drum of steel-colored washing machine, woman pours liquid washing gel into plastic cap. A girl in a white T-shirt carefully pours a transparent conditioner for flattening laundry

Aldi’s laundry detergent prices can be a bit more expensive, and other large box retailers may offer more affordable options at the same quality.

15. Pet food

Golden Retriever and British Shorthair eating together

Aldi’s pet food prices might not be the cheapest in comparison to other specialty pet stores or sellers.

16. Nuts

Peeled nuts in bulk as background: walnut, almonds, cashews

Aldi offers a variety of nuts, but their bulk prices might be more expensive than other wholesale stores.

17. Tissues

Delicate female hands pulling a tissue out of a gray tissue box.

While Aldi’s tissue can be affordable, it’s not necessarily the best option in comparison to regular grocers.

18. Freezer bags

Frozen vegetables in bags in refrigerator

Aldi’s freezer bags can be more expensive than purchasing a box of bags in bulk from other retailers.

19. Energy drinks

energy drink

Aldi’s energy drink prices can be more than that available in other grocery chain stores.

20. Milk

Asian woman housewife wearing face fabric mask shopping in the supermarket during the Coronavirus COVID-19.Asian customer shopping in a grocery store choosing milk and yoghurt product for her family.

Milk at Aldi may or may not be the cheapest you can find. You might want to check prices in your area before always going to Aldi. According to blogger Frugal Minded Mom, prices for milk can vary state to state. Some states, like Florida, have no set minimums on milk. She found that her local Aldi sells milk for as much as $3.49, whereas another store roughly 30 minutes away sells it for $2.44.

Always Check Your Options

Remember, you can find many amazing deals at Aldi for a broad range of products. Still, you should be mindful of prices and take note of other available pricing opportunities, and if you’re not sure, compare it to other grocery chain stores before making a purchase. With this list, you are better equipped to make the right choices for your budget.

Chef’s Clever Hack for Perfectly Peeled Hard-Boiled Eggs

If you’ve ever found yourself struggling with the tedious task of peeling hard-boiled eggs, worry not; you’re certainly not alone. While hard-boiled eggs are a popular and nutritious snack, their stubborn shells can turn a simple kitchen chore into a messy affair. Renowned French chef, cookbook author, and TV personality, Jacques Pépin, offers a brilliant solution to elevate your egg-peeling experience.

The Common Dilemma: Sticky Shells and Messy Peeling

The challenge with hard-boiled eggs often centers around their shells, which tend to stick stubbornly to the egg whites, resulting in a less-than-appetizing appearance. Pépin’s approach introduces a simple yet highly effective tweak to the cooking process that can revolutionize your egg-peeling routine.

The Game-Changing Hack: Poking a Hole for Seamless Peeling

Pépin’s ingenious method involves a subtle modification—poking a small hole in the wider end of the egg before boiling. This uncomplicated adjustment allows the air pocket inside the egg to escape gradually during the cooking process, making the eggshell effortlessly removable. Unlike when the air pocket is trapped, causing the white to adhere to the shell, this method ensures a smooth and easy peeling experience.

Simple Tools, Big Impact: How to Execute Pépin’s Technique

You don’t need any fancy tools or culinary expertise to implement this game-changing hack. A basic pin or thumbtack is all you require. Gently puncture the eggshell at the wider end, ensuring the hole is large enough to release air but small enough to maintain the egg’s structural integrity. Once the hole is made, proceed to boil the egg as usual. The released air pocket makes the peeling process a breeze post-cooking.

Accessible to All: Pépin’s Technique for Every Kitchen Enthusiast

What makes this method truly remarkable is its accessibility. It doesn’t demand advanced culinary skills or specialized equipment, making it suitable for everyone, from seasoned chefs to kitchen beginners. This hack proves especially handy on busy mornings when a speedy, protein-rich breakfast or snack is a necessity.

Effortless Peeling for Impeccable Results

By incorporating Pépin’s tip into your routine, you can effortlessly peel hard-boiled eggs, resulting in perfectly shaped egg whites. This technique not only streamlines the peeling process, making it cleaner and faster, but also imparts a touch of professional culinary wisdom to your kitchen repertoire.

A Culinary Pro’s Secret for Your Kitchen Success

The next time you embark on preparing hard-boiled eggs, keep Jacques Pépin’s straightforward yet transformative advice in mind. A small hole in the eggshell can turn a potentially frustrating task into a quick and easy one, elevating the quality of your breakfasts, salads, and snacks.

Fried Cornbread – Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes

A classic southern recipe, cornmeal hoecakes are little pan fried cornmeal medallions that are at home as breakfast, as much as they are as a side dish with a mess o’ greens, and just about anything else!
Fried Cornbread – Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes

Fried cornbread, is also known as cornmeal hoe cakes and corn cakes, and sometimes Johnnycakes, is a sort of fried cornmeal flatbread – kind of like if you took cornbread batter and skillet fried it like a pancake. The inside puffs up like cornbread, while the outside gets nice and crispy from frying it in the oil. It’s the perfect companion to a mess o’greens, or for breakfast or as a sweet treat when drizzled with a bit of syrup.

I have read that hoecakes likely started with Native Americans who apparently cooked these on hot rocks inside an open fire. The method was later adapted by cooking the bread on the blade of a hoe, and that is how it got its name, though some folks dispute that.

This was a reader request from one of our Facebook family members Sarah, and since The Cajun brought me home a literal armload of collard greens, I thought I would bump up the request since I clearly had greens in my near future … and everybody knows, you gotta have either cornbread or else some hoecakes to go with! Course these little hoecakes are pretty good all on their own too.

{Southern Hissy Fit Warning} One thing I have learned since blogging and getting to meet and talk with folks from all over the south is that when it comes to cooking and recipes, there is no one south. You will have some stodgy southerners who want to insist that the way they grew up is the only way things are done. Makes me crazy! It’s just not true y’all.

The way you learned receipts (recipes) and how to cook, likely came from your mama and was influenced by the way she learned from her mama. Regional aspects also have to be considered because I’ve noticed that folks here on the Coast cook a whole lot different from, say, folks in north Alabama. We are in close proximity to south Louisiana and our cooking is heavily influenced by Creole and Cajun cooking. We also have an abundant supply of fresh seafood here, so our diets are heavy in fresh Gulf seafood. That ain’t happening in north Alabama.

Texans cook far different from Mississippians as do the folks of the Appalachian Mountain region. The coast of Georgia cooks a good bit different from the Gulf Coast. So, there is no one south y’all, but it’s all good, so how about let’s just stop arguing about what we think is right or wrong about our southern foods and cooking, embrace our differences, eat and enjoy fellowship! {soapbox tucked away}

Now that said… cornmeal hoe cakes are also not hot water cornbread.

Are they similar? Yes, somewhat. Hot water cornbread in its purest form is simply plain ol’ yellow all-purpose cornmeal (not cornmeal mix, not self-rising cornmeal), a pinch of salt, and boiling water. The boiling water is added to the cornmeal which starts the cooking process of the meal. Once the boiling water is mixed in and the mixture is just cool enough to handle, but still very hot, it is hand-formed into a small pone in the palm of the hand, which gives it that classic oval shape it’s known for. It’s then usually fried in hot oil, though also is added to top of things like greens and steamed.

Hoe cakes, like this recipe, are more like a cornbread batter, that’s dropped in a skillet of hot oil in little medallions, similar to pancakes, and fried. Apples and oranges folks!

And while I’m at it, please also understand this isn’t a historical page. We aren’t trying to recreate recipes from The Great Depression, nearly 90 years ago, where folks had limited supplies of things. This blog is a current blog of my recipes, and this recipe is a modern version of fried cornmeal hoe cakes, an adaptation of Paula Deen’s Hoecake recipe, which is a signature feature at her Savannah restaurant that comes to your table like a bread basket does elsewhere.

I think it makes a just perfect vehicle for sopping up some pot likker from a big ole pot of greens, with some pintos or a big bowl of soup, though they make a great bread dish for just about any meal really, especially in the heat of the summer when you want bread but don’t want to turn on the oven.

Now… how about let’s make some hoe cakes!

The batter can be made up and stored in the fridge for a couple of days, since we all know as those greens set up in the fridge, they don’t get nothing but better. Or treat yourself and drizzle a bit of cane, sorghum or maple syrup over one. Yummy. Just look at that crispy loveliness with a drip of syrup on it, would ya?

The sugar is optional. I like it in these, but leave it out if you don’t. Now, if you like and you have a well seasoned cast iron skillet, you can skip the oil or butter to brown them, but you won’t get that lovely, crispy outside either, so really, why would you want to do that?

Ingredients:

1 cup of self rising flour
1 cup of all purpose cornmeal
2 teaspoons of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 tablespoon of sugar, optional
2 eggs
3/4 cup buttermilk
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup of cooking oil (vegetable, canola, melted bacon fat etc.)
1 tablespoon of fat, for frying, or oil combined with a bit of butter

Instructions:

Line a rimmed baking sheet with paper towels and place a rack on top; set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt and sugar. Measure out the buttermilk in a liquid measuring cup, and add to that the water and oil; blend well. Add eggs and mix well; combine with dry ingredients. Heat oil and butter in a cast iron skillet over medium to medium high and drop batter by about 1/8 cup measures into the hot skillet to form small medallions.
Fry until brown and crisp, turn and brown the other side. Remove and let drain on rack. Serve immediately with warm syrup for breakfast or as a snack, or dip ’em in a mess o’ greens to sop up that pot likker (juice from the greens)!
Variation: When corn is at peak and in-season, add about 1 cup of corn cut and scraped off the cob. You’ll need about 1 large ear of corn. Can also make this into a pan hoecake. Add only enough buttermilk to make a stiff batter. You may not need the additional water. Pour into a screaming hot, well greased 8-inch cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Reduce heat and let brown underneath about 10 – 15 minutes. Run a metal egg turner underneath and turn to brown the other side. Can also bake in a well preheated 425 degree F oven for about 15 to 20 minutes (no turning needed).
Tip: If you spray the measuring cup with a bit of non-stick spray before scooping, the batter will slip right out. If you don’t happen to have that 1/8 cup measure, just do about 2 tablespoons of batter in one pile and push it around to form a medallion.

Vegetable Barley Soup

This Slow Cooker Vegetable Barley Soup recipe couldn’t be easier. Just throw everything in the crockpot and walk away! Healthy, delicious and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

1 yellow onion, chopped
2 carrots, cut into ½-circles
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into ¾-inch pieces
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups frozen green beans
¾ cup pearl barley
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
¾ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp salt
½ tsp ground pepper
1 (14 oz.) can petite diced tomatoes
6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 cups water
¼ cup minced flat-leaf parsley

Instructions

Combine all of the ingredients, except for the parsley, in a large (6-quart) slow cooker.
Cook on LOW until the barley is tender, about 8 hours.
Stir in the parsley. Serve

Enjoy

SLICED BAKED POTATOES – Just 4 Ingredient

In the world of comfort food, few dishes can match the sheer satisfaction of a well-prepared plate of Sliced Baked Potatoes. This simple yet indulgent dish combines the earthy goodness of potatoes with the richness of cheese and bacon, all crowned with a dollop of sour cream. It’s a culinary delight that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of creating these delectable Sliced Baked Potatoes and explore why they’re a favorite among food lovers.

Ingredients:

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need

INGREDIENTS
Baking potatoes
Cheddar cheese, grated
Bacon, cooked and crumbled
Green onions, sliced
Sour cream

These five simple ingredients are the building blocks of your Sliced Baked Potatoes. Now, let’s move on to the directions.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
  2. Brush both sides of potato slices with butter.
  3. Place the potato slices on a cookie sheet.
  4. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the slices are lightly browned on both sides, turning them once during the process.
  5. When the potatoes are ready, top them with crumbled bacon, grated cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions.
  6. Return the cookie sheet to the oven and continue baking until the cheese has melted.
  7. Add a generous dollop of sour cream when done.
  8. Your Sliced Baked Potatoes are now ready to be served and savored!

Tips for Perfect Sliced Baked Potatoes

To ensure your Sliced Baked Potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

  • Uniform Slicing: Aim for uniform potato slices to ensure even cooking.
  • Baking Temperature: Maintain the recommended baking temperature for that perfect golden brown color.
  • Microwave Shortcut: If you’re short on time, you can microwave the potatoes for six minutes instead of baking them.
  • Experiment: Feel free to add your own twists, like a sprinkle of herbs or a dash of hot sauce, to customize the flavor to your liking.

PEACHES & CREAM CHEESE LOAF

Are you craving a delicious and moist loaf that combines the sweet and juicy flavors of peaches with the creamy goodness of cream cheese? Look no further! In this article, we’ll dive into the wonderful world of Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf and explore a delightful recipe that will leave your taste buds begging for more. From the rich combination of ingredients to the step-by-step instructions, we’ll guide you through the process of creating this delectable treat. So, let’s get started and indulge in the irresistible flavors of Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf!

Ingredients:

To create this mouthwatering treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:

INGREDIENTSAMOUNT
All-purpose flour2 cups
Baking powder1 teaspoon
Baking soda1/2 teaspoon
Salt1/2 teaspoon
Unsalted butter, softened1/2 cup
Granulated sugar1 cup
Large eggs2
Vanilla extract1 teaspoon
Sour cream1 cup
Fresh or canned peaches, diced1 cup
Cream cheese, softened4 ounces
Powdered sugar1/4 cup
Lemon juice1 tablespoon
Lemon zest1/2 teaspoon

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set the mixture

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be easily done with an electric mixer.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Alternate the Flour Mixture and Sour Cream

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture, stirring well after each addition. This will ensure a well-blended batter.

Step 6: Fold in the Peaches

Gently fold in the diced peaches, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Layer the Batter and Cream Cheese Filling

Pour half of the batter into the greased loaf pan. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the batter. Top with the remaining batter, making sure to cover the filling completely.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the loaf should be golden brown.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice the Peaches & Cream Cheese Loaf and serve it to your eager guests.

DIY Bar Cart

Are you enchanted by the allure of bar carts but find the price tags a little too steep? Well, you’re in luck! This article will guide you through the process of crafting your very own DIY bar cart that exudes both style and functionality, all without breaking the bank. Follow along as we take you step by step through the process of repurposing and transforming an old cart into a chic mobile bar that’s sure to be the envy of your guests.

Unveiling the Hidden Treasures: Finding the Perfect Cart

diy bar cart, painted furniture, repurposing upcycling

Embarking on your DIY bar cart journey requires a keen eye for hidden gems. Often, thrift stores, garage sales, or even forgotten corners of your own home hold the potential to house your future bar cart. As a bar cart aficionado, my own journey began when I stumbled upon a rust-covered cart at a garage sale, priced at a mere $2.00! A diamond in the rough, this cart was destined for a glamorous transformation.

Rust Be Gone: Preparing Your Canvas

diy bar cart, painted furniture, repurposing upcycling

Before the magic happens, a little elbow grease is required. Rust removal is the first order of business. Armed with an electric drill and a wire brush attachment, the majority of the rust was removed, revealing the cart’s underlying potential. While a few bumpy spots remained, they posed no challenge that couldn’t be handled.

Priming and Painting: A Palette of Possibilities

diy bar cart, painted furniture, repurposing upcycling

With the rust banished, it’s time to give your cart a fresh new look. Start by priming the surfaces, ensuring the paint will adhere smoothly. A quick spray paint session on the handles and trays follows, and here is where your creativity takes center stage. My personal touch involved adding a herringbone pattern to the trays using a gold paint pen.

Adding a pop of color further elevates the cart’s charm. Splashes of gold, pink, and mint were painted onto select spaces, embracing an eclectic and whimsical aesthetic. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to approach this step – let your personal taste guide you.

The Grand Assembly: Bringing Your Bar Cart to Life

diy bar cart, painted furniture, repurposing upcycling

With the paint dried and the colors harmonizing beautifully, it’s time to put the pieces together. Assemble the cart with a sense of excitement and anticipation, knowing that each element has been lovingly curated to create a masterpiece. And voila! In a few simple steps, your DIY bar cart is complete, exuding sophistication and style.