Sweet Pennies from Heaven

Day 8 – Citrus Punch (12 Days of Celebrate Summer) #12DaysOf

by 731 Comments

citrus-punch

Hey ya’ll! Is it hot where you’re at today??

What do you do to celebrate summer? We enjoy entertaining and spending time outside with family and friends. In today’s 12 Days of Celebrate Summer series, we’re sharing Mandee’s Citrus Punch recipe (<– click for full recipe) from her site, Raising My 5 Sons! There’s just something about a tall glass of something cold to drink during the summer, it’s so refreshing! You’ll really enjoy her recipe!

If you’ve missed any of the earlier posts in our 12 Days of Celebrate Summer series, no fear. You can find them all below! Enjoy!!



Yummy Avocado mango smoothie for the summer!

Day 7 – Avocado Mango Smoothie (12 Days of Celebrate Summer) #12DaysOf

by 543 Comments

Yummy Avocado mango smoothie for the summer!

We’re baaaackkkkkkk! Are you ready for another yummy treat in our 12 Days of Celebrate Summer series?

Summer is filled with fun in the sun, BBQs, and more! We are always on the go! And sometimes that means you need a bit of a treat, how does a creamy, fruity, smoothie sound? Sounds delicious to me! In fact, for today’s Summer Treat in our 12 Days Of Celebrate Summer, Tracy at Having Fun Saving has an Avocado Mango Smoothie (<– Click for full recipe) recipe for us! Have you ever added avocado to your smoothies?

Be sure to check out her recipe and the other delicious recipes on the linky below.

Happy Summer!


Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy - Lemon Cake Mix Cookies (cheater recipe!)

Lemon Cake Mix Cookies. Make Them Now and Thank Me Later!

by 642 Comments

Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy - Lemon Cake Mix Cookies (cheater recipe!)

We’re a week into summer break and my attempt at losing a few pounds the last couple of months has come to a screeching halt. These lemon cake mix cookies are partially to blame.

Cookies.

Lemon cookies.

Do I even have to say another word?

Okay. I’ll say a few more words. MAKE THESE. Now. You won’t regret it.

If you love the flavor of lemon and you love “chewy in the middle and crunchy around the edge” cookies then you’ll wanna kiss my face for this recipe! I hope you enjoy it as much as we do! The printable recipe is near the bottom of the post, for your convenience. Awww, aren’t I too kind?! Print this baby out and put back in your recipe box.

If you fall in love with these, then make sure to try our other batch of super bright and funky cake mix sugar cookies!!

 

Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy - Lemon Cake Mix Cookies (cheater recipe!)

Lemon Cake Mix Cookies Ingredients:

1 box Lemon Cake Mix
2 Eggs
1/2 cup of melted Butter
6 oz Nestle Springtime Morsels (optional, but pretty!)

 

 

Easy Peasy Lemon Squeezy - Lemon Cake Mix Cookies (cheater recipe!)

How to sling these Lemon Cake Mix Cookies together:

Preheat oven to 350.
Line cookie sheet with parchment paper.
I remove dark semi sweet morsels leaving only pink and yellow.
Combine butter, eggs and cake mix.
Stir until just blended.
Stir in morsels.
Form into roughly tablespoon size balls and place on baking sheet.
Bake for 12 minutes or until cookie set.
Allow to cool several minutes on pan before moving to cooling rack.

 

Lemon Cake Mix Cookies
Author: Jenni
Ingredients
  • 1 box Lemon Cake Mix
  • 2 Eggs
  • 1/2 cup of melted Butter
  • 6 oz Nestle Springtime Morsels (optional)
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350.
  2. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper.
  3. I remove dark semi sweet morsels leaving only pink and yellow.
  4. Combine butter, eggs and cake mix.
  5. Stir until just blended.
  6. Stir in morsels.
  7. Form into roughly tablespoon size balls and place on baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 12 minutes or until cookie set.
  9. Allow to cool several minutes on pan before moving to cooling rack.

 

This recipe is part of a series called “12 Days of Summer Fun”. Over the course of 12 days, we’ll be sharing a fun summer idea or recipe! So you can find them all in one spot, I’ve got a handy dandy little linky below so you can click over to visit them all! Enjoy!!

Day 1 – Ultimate Brownies (12 Days of Celebrate Summer) #12DaysOf

by 1,181 Comments

ultimate-brownies

Guys! Get ready for some awesome-ness!

We’re BACK with our “12 Days of….” posts! This time, we’re celebrating summer with some crazy good recipes, crafts and other summery ideas. We’ll be sharing one each day, so make sure to come back each day to see what’s new! If you miss anything through the next 12 days, don’t worry! We’ll have them all linked up for you at the bottom of each blog post!

Today’s recipe is for these (click to get full recipe –>) Ultimate Brownies from SavingYouDinero.com. They are so yummy. A combination of sweet, salty, crunchy, gooey, and delicious-ness! You only need a little piece to enjoy. Pfft. Who am I kidding. The richer the better, bring it on!! This dessert will be a hit at any summer BBQ you attend and others will ask you for this recipe – it is that good!

Don’t forget, our other recipes will be featured at the end of each blog post so you won’t miss a thing!


We're sharing over 40 incredible summer recipes including appetizers, lunch and dinner ideas, desserts and drinks!

Over 40 Incredible Summer Recipes to Indulge In This Summer #MomsCheckIn

by 952 Comments

 

We're sharing over 40 incredible summer recipes including appetizers, lunch and dinner ideas, desserts and drinks!

Over 40 Yummy Summer Recipes

Singing, “Schooooooool’s outttt for summmmerrrrrr!!!” Summer break is HERE, ya’ll! We have slept in EVERY day so far and we’ve also hit the couch a couple of times for those evening naps that leave you feeling all hungover. Blah. Hate that feeling, but oh well. Those naps sure feel pretty doggone good! Are your kids on summer break yet?

Our Moms Check In moms are talking all about summer recipes this week and we’re sharing some of our faves. Over 40 of our favorites, to be exact! What are some of your favorites? Corn on the cob grilled? A fresh berry pie? We’d love to hear your favorites too! Cause you know, food is awesome and the more ideas we have the more we can eat!! HA! Drop us a comment below or chat with us on social media using the hashtag #MomsCheckIn!

 

We're sharing over 40 incredible summer recipes including appetizers, lunch and dinner ideas, desserts and drinks!

Over 40 Summer Recipes to Indulge In…

Appetizers:

 

Lunch or Dinner:

 

 

We're sharing over 40 incredible summer recipes including appetizers, lunch and dinner ideas, desserts and drinks!

 

We're sharing over 40 incredible summer recipes including appetizers, lunch and dinner ideas, desserts and drinks!

Dessert:

 

Drinks

 

 What we love about summer… 

 

 

Amanda-626x1024

“Summer for me is all about easy and fresh food. And also, if we can keep the oven turned off that’s an added bonus! So our slow cooker goes into overdrive. A typical summer meal might be some BBQ, corn on the cob (I do live in Indiana after all), fruit salad and some ice cream!”

– Amanda is the mom to Joshua and owns It’s a Fabulous Life. If you are looking for a one stop place for all things mom, It’s a Fabulous Life is it! Full of recipes, fashion, DIY projects, recipes and parenting articles it’s the place for all of Mom’s favorites to come together! Follow her on Twitter here!

 

 

 

stephanie

“We LOVE summertime at our house. We do a lot of outdoor entertaining in our backyard which means grilling, cool treats and lots of laughter with friends. Both Mike and I love to experiment with new recipes and flavor combinations, especially during the warm summer months.“

– Stephanie is the mom to Sam and the author of Spaceships and Laser Beams. If you ever need party ideas her site is the place to visit! Specializing in all things boy, it’s full of inspiration! Follow her on Twitter here!

 

 

 

Jenni-Eaves1-213x300

“We have a pretty big extended family and we have a ton of get togethers in the summertime. Lots of birthdays, and then of course there’s Father’s Day and the 4th of July. Always entertaining, playing games, swimming and eating good food! Summertime food for me means quick and easy (usually involving the grill!).“

– Jenni is the mom of one and the author of Sweet Pennies From Heaven. A hearth and home website, Sweet Pennies From Heaven focuses on recipes, crafts and creating a comfortable home. Follow her on Twitter here!

 

 What is Moms Check In?

Who are the moms of Moms Check In? We’re 3 moms who are also professional bloggers. We chat about a new topic each week. We talk about things from dirty diapers to date night, and everything in between. Moms love to talk to other moms and let’s face it…MOMS know everything!!

Before you leave, let us know…

What are your favorite Summer recipes?

 

peanut butter cup cheesecake bites

Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bites

by 1,323 Comments


This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone.

peanut butter cup cheesecake bites

Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bites

Have you heard about the RITZ® Snackify Challenge Instagram Contest? You can enter for a chance to win one of forty $100 Walmart e-Gift Cards (10 per week) by uploading an Instagram photo of your RITZ®-topped creation with #putitonaritzcontest. Purchase of RITZ® is not required.

Ritz Snackify Challenge Instagram Contest
So, I love cheesecake as much as the Golden Girls do. The RITZ® Snackify Challenge has inspired me. I love coming up with and creating new recipes, especially decadent ones. Some that you wouldn’t even think about….yet EASY to make! I decided to create this crazy good recipe for Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bites. Yessss!!!! A sweet no-bake cheesecake mixture dolloped on top of a RITZ® cracker, topped with a peanut butter cup. Can it get any better?! I’ll give you the play by play, but the printable recipe is at the bottom of the post, in case you want to print it and put it in your recipe box.   peanut butter cup cheesecake bites

Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bites ingredients:

    • 1 8oz. block of softened cream cheese

 

  • 1 8oz. tub of whipped topping

 

 

  • 1/3 cup sugar

 

 

  • peanut butter cups (miniatures or regular size)

 

 

  • RITZ® Crackers

 

 

 

Directions:

Cream together the softened cream cheese and sugar with a mixer. Add whipped topping and about 10-12 chopped peanut butter cup minatures and stir until combined.   peanut butter cup cheesecake bites Scoop cheesecake mixture into a zip lock baggie and place in the fridge to firm up. Then cut off the corner (makeshift piping bag) and then pipe the mixture onto the RITZ® Crackers.       peanut butter cup cheesecake bites Top each cheesecake bite with a peanut butter cup. Serve right away, and store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container. Enjoy!       ritz-instore-demo While I was at Walmart getting groceries, there was a RITZ® Crackers demo going on. The gal there was making some yummy snacks. She topped RITZ® Crackers with peanut butter, marshmallow cream and a banana slice. So soooo goood! After snacking on these and gabbing for a bit, I ran around the corner to the cracker aisle and scooped up a box of BACON flavored RITZ® Crackers and a regular box. For the recipe I created, I actually used BOTH kinds of the crackers. The Bacon flavor actually lended some more saltiness to the sweet and salty combo I was trying to achieve. Yum!         Ritz-Crackers-aisle You can find the RITZ® Crackers at Walmart, in the cracker aisle. The Bacon flavored ones were about eye level and then the regular RITZ® Crackers were near the bottom shelf. Click HERE to enter the Snackify Challenge with your own RITZ®-topped creation for a chance to win a $100 Gift Card! Let us know what creation you make!! We’d love to hear all about it!

Check out these DIVINE Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bites! #PutItOnARitz #ad

A video posted by Jenni Eaves (@sweetpennies) on

 

Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bites #PutItOnARitz #ad
Author: Jenni
Ingredients
  • 1 8oz. block softened cream cheese
  • 1 8oz. tub of whipped topping
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 10-12 peanut butter cup miniatures, chopped
  • RITZ® Crackers
  • (extra peanut butter cup miniatures for the top of each cracker)
Instructions
  1. Cream softened cream cheese and sugar together in a mixer.
  2. Add whipped topping and chopped peanut butter cups, stir until combined.
  3. Scoop cheesecake mixture into a zip lock baggie, and stick in the fridge to firm up a bit.
  4. Cut off the tip of the baggie (makeshift piping bag) and pipe mixture onto each cracker.
  5. Top each with a miniature peanut butter cup.
  6. Enjoy right away!

 

Crispy Onion Ring Topped Garden Salad

Crispy Onion Ring Topped Garden Salad

by 2,021 Comments

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. 

Crispy Onion Ring Topped Garden Salad

Crispy Onion Ring Topped Garden Salad

Guess what?!?! I see fresh GREEN grass out my window! I’ve also caught a glimpse of some Easter lillies popping up and on the not so pretty note, the birds have started their poo fest on our vehicles. That means it’s official. SPRING is here! Now, forget I mentioned bird poo — cause this post is about food. Ahem. Moving along…..

I crave salad all year long. I blame that on the fact that I don’t drink enough water, but anyhooo…when spring comes I’m ready to ditch the heavy and hearty meals from the winter and go with light and fresh. Salads are my favorite thing to enjoy but I love playing around and coming up with new ideas.

 

Crispy Onion Ring Topped Garden Salad

Have you ever had crispy onion rings on top of a fresh garden salad?! Wellll, let me just tell you….it is crazy good. I usually put sliced onions on my salad, and croutons. But this kind of knocked out 2 birds with one stone. There I am….talking about  birds again. Gahh! But you get the onions and you get the crunch. I don’t think I can ever have a salad without onion rings again. Seriously. It’s THAT good.

Below is what I used but the next time, I’ll be changing it up again and adding some fresh crumbled feta cheese, grilled chicken and sliced hard boiled eggs. Oh Em Gee. That’s the wonderful thing about a homemade salad…you can do it any old way you like! Just don’t forget the Alexia Crispy Onion Rings on top ya’ll!

Fresh Garden Salad with Crispy Onion Rings #SpringIntoFlavor #Ad #CBias
Author: Jenni
Ingredients
  • Salad greens
  • baby carrots
  • grape tomatoes
  • cucumbers
  • shredded cheese (any kind you like)
  • salad dressing (any kind you like)
  • baked crispy Alexia onion rings (3-5 rings for a single salad)
Instructions
  1. Combine all of the ingredients in a salad bowl and top with crispy baked onion rings and dressing. Bake the onion rings according to the package directions. Enjoy!

 

alexia-collection

We grabbed some Alexia crinkle cut fries for the husband and little man, sweet potato fries for me and then the crispy onion rings were just a toss up. Usually my husband and I fight over those. Like, I steal them off the baking sheet while his head’s turned. (oops!)

 

alexia-onion-rings-2

I love the Alexia onion rings because they’re breaded with panko. Heckkkkk yeahhhh baby!!! You know what that means?! Super crunchy! All of the Alexia products are made with natural ingredients. You can tell a difference. Their fries are so fresh and taste like you cut them yourself and roasted them in the oven. Their motto is “Farm to Flavor!”

 

alexia-instore

We found our Alexia fries and onion rings at Walmart, in the freezer section. Just look for the “Potatoes” signage in the freezer aisle to locate them. Load them in your cart and take them home. You’ll be happy you did. Yum!  Check out these awesome Spring into Flavor recipes at Alexia and visit them on Facebook and Pinterest for more fun, news and promotions!

I’ve shared a yummy twist on a fresh spring idea…do you have any awesome spring recipes that you love? Leave us a comment!

 

 

homemade italian meatballs

Spaghetti and Homemade Italian Meatballs

by 278 Comments

This is a sponsored post for SheSpeaks/Bounty, however all opinions and spaghetti sauce splatters are my own.

homemade italian meatballs

Homemade Italian Meatballs

I’ve really been trying hard this past week to watch what I’m eating. I decided to give myself one day on the weekends as my “cheat” day and enjoy something that I love. We decided on spaghetti and meatballs. No argument from the family, either. We all love spaghetti.

These homemade Italian meatballs were sooooo good and really simple to make. I’m going to share the recipe with you. Just prepare spaghetti the way you normally do to pair with these yummy meatballs.

 

homemade italian meatballs

Okay, on to the recipe. You’ll also find a printable recipe down near the bottom of this post. Just print it off and stick back in your recipe box!

 

homemade italian meatballs

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1/4 cup dried Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp. salt

Directions:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees
  • Spray a muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray
  • Combine beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, egg and salt in a mixing bowl
  • Roll into 1 1/4″ sized balls and place in muffin tins
  • Bake until cooked through, about 20 minutes

*About halfway through cooking, turn meatballs in the tins to brown the other side.

** To brown the meatballs really well, turn on the broiler for the last couple of minutes. Watch carefully so you don’t burn them.

 

homemade italian meatballs(SEEEE the Spaghetti Sauce Splatter?!?!)

We recently remodeled and updated our kitchen. I wanted a white farmhouse kitchen, and that’s what I got. However, the beadboard backsplash around the counter and the panel behind the stove is white and shows ALL kinds of splatters. Spaghetti making the worst messes, naturally. The sauce is yummy, but it’s also messy. When it bubbles, it pops and splatters everywhere. Do you have the same issue?

I also opted for all white dish towels and dish cloths. I just love the way they look in a kitchen. So fresh and crisp. I never even thought how EVERY thing that you clean up stains those pretty white towels and cloths and they get really dingy really fast.

 

bounty-with-dawn-2

bounty-with-dawn-cleanup-2

Bounty recently came out with a BRAND new kind of paper towel. It’s Bounty with Dawn, ya’ll. With Dawn. They’re thicker than your average paper towel and you just activate them with water. Then they get all nice and sudsy! I am in LOVE with these. You can rinse and wring these puppies out so you can clean up the whole mess with ONE paper towel instead of 10!

 

homemade italian meatballs

bounty-with-dawn-cleanup-spaghetti-sauce-2

Dawn is awesome at fighting grease so that combined with the thickness of these new Bounty with Dawn paper towels is a double-whammy! The towels were good at breaking up dried on food too. I had the oven on, baking the meatballs and the sauce and spaghetti on the stovetop. The heat from the stove made the sauce dry up and after dinner, the new Bounty with Dawn paper towel wiped it up in just a couple of swipes. I was VERY impressed!

Make sure to check out the new Bounty with Dawn paper towels the next time you’re at Walmart and pick up a roll to try for yourself. I think you’ll love them as much as I do. Keep in mind that these do not replace paper towels for food prep. My husband almost stuck the meatballs out of the oven onto one of these to soak the grease up. I was like, noooooooo!!!! I don’t want my meatballs to taste like Dawn dish soap, hahaha!!!

Visit Bounty on Facebook and on Twitter for news, updates and promotions!

Messy Spaghetti and Homemade Italian Meatballs and Easy Cleanup #BountyatWalmart
Author: Jenni
Ingredients
  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1/4 cup dried Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
  2. Spray a muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray
  3. Combine beef, breadcrumbs, cheese, egg and salt in a mixing bowl
  4. Roll into 1 1/4″ sized balls and place in muffin tins
  5. Bake until cooked through, about 20 minutes

 

What do you typically use to clean up tough messes?

 

 

cake mix cookies

Cake Mix Cookies – An Easy Sugar Cookie Cheat Recipe

by 2,435 Comments

Cake Mix Cookies

Cake Mix Cookies

I usually love winter but this year, I’m just sick of it. I’m so ready for Spring and summer. Fresh dirt and green grass. Easter lillies. Grilling. Swimming. Nights around a firepit. Yesssss. It all sounds like heaven to me. I’m sure come July/August, I’ll be begging for cooler weather…but that’s how it goes. Right?!

I’ve got a fun “cheater cheater pumpkin eater” recipe to share with you today. It’s included in a new 12 Days of Easter Recipes and Crafts series that I’m participating in with some blog friends of mine. These sugar cookies are made using a cake mix. These make for really soft in the middle, chewy around the edges, GOODNESS. Just pure goodness. Since Easter is around the corner and since I have a ton of sugar crystals…might as well make pretty sugar cookies. These cake mix cookies are such an easy cheat for sugar cookies.

Do you need a Weekly Menu Planner for your fridge? These save SO much time, and takes the guess out of “What’s for Dinner?”

We’ve got one you can have! Just click below to get yours now!


printable-menu-plan-offer-1

 

cake mix cookies

Ingredients:

 

Directions:

  • Mix cake mix, eggs and vegetable oil using a stand mixer or hand mixer until combined and a soft dough forms.
  • Stick in the fridge for a few minutes to allow the dough to firm up just a bit.
  • Using a scooper or spoon, scoop out cookie dough and roll into about 1 inch sized balls.
  • Roll cookie dough balls into different colored sugar crystals and place on ungreased cookie sheet.

 

 

cake mix cookies

cake mix cookies

  • Bake at 375 for approx. 8-9 minutes or until done.
  • Press Hershey Kisses on top of each cookie.
  • Enjoy!
  • Place leftover cookies in an airtight container.


printable-menu-plan-offer-1

 

cake mix cookies

Cake Mix Sugar Cookies
Author: Jenni
Ingredients
  • white cake mix (we used Pillsbury, but any brand will do)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • sugar crystals (different colors to roll in)
  • white Hershey Kisses (cookies n cream or confetti flavored)
Instructions
  1. Mix cake mix, eggs and vegetable oil using a mixer until combined and a soft dough forms.
  2. Stick in the fridge for a few minutes to allow the dough to firm up just a bit.
  3. Scoop out cookie dough and roll into about 1 inch sized balls.
  4. Roll cookie dough balls into colored sugar crystals and place on ungreased cookie sheet.
  5. Bake at 375 for approx. 8-9 minutes or until done.
  6. Press Hershey Kisses on top of each cookie.
  7. Place leftover cookies in an airtight container.

 

 Be sure to check out the rest of the 12 Days of Easter Recipes and Crafts posts below and enjoy!!



hidden pot o' gold pudding parfait

Hidden Pot O’ Gold Pudding Parfait

by 1,433 Comments

Pot o Gold pudding parfait

Hidden Pot O’ Gold Pudding Parfait

St. Patrick’s Day seems to be the one holiday that we don’t always go all out for. I had some pistachio pudding up in the cabinet, and I thought….ahhh, what the heck. We’ll make a pudding parfait. Using what I already had on hand, I thought it would be SUPER cute to put pineapple at the bottom (to resemble the pot of gold). The cereal is of course, the rainbow. Who knew throwing a few simple things together would be so pretty, and tasty too. The kiddo loved them.

I recommend making your pudding and refrigerating until it’s set before beginning to put these parfaits together. You’ll want to serve them AS soon as they’re made so the cereal doesn’t get soggy. I’d also recommend smaller mason jars for smaller portions (for young kids).

 

pudding parfait

Ingredients:

  • Pistachio instant pudding mix
  • milk (for the pudding)
  • Fruit Loops or another colorful cereal
  • Pineapple chunks
  • RediWhip or whipped topping

 

Instructions:

  • Mix pudding according to directions and refrigerate until set.
  • Drain pineapple chunks and add to the bottom of the jars.
  • Next, layer cereal on top of the pineapple.
  • Then pipe or spoon in a thick layer of the pudding.
  • Finally, top each jar with a nice helping of whipped topping.
  • Enjoy right away!
Hidden Pot O’ Gold Pudding Parfait
Author: Jenni
Ingredients
  • Pistachio instant pudding mix
  • milk (for the pudding)
  • Fruit Loops or another colorful cereal
  • Pineapple chunks
  • RediWhip or whipped topping
Instructions
  1. Mix pudding according to directions and refrigerate until set.
  2. Drain pineapple chunks and add to the bottom of the jars.
  3. Next, layer cereal on top of the pineapple.
  4. Then pipe or spoon in a thick layer of the pudding.
  5. Finally, top each jar with a nice helping of whipped topping.
  6. Enjoy right away!

 

For more fun St. Patrick’s Day, we have these reader favorites on the blog…

 

rainbow poke cupcakesRainbow Poke Cake Cupcakes

 

 

Lucky Charms Trail MixLucky Charms Trail Mix

This pudding parfait recipe is part of a 12 Days of St. Patrick’s Day Recipes and Crafts roundup. Below you’ll find all of the other recipes and crafts that are included in our 12 Days of Ideas….enjoy!!



Do you have any favorite St. Patrick’s Day recipes?

 

 

Mint Chocolate Shamrock Frappe

Homemade Mint Chocolate Shamrock Frappe

by 402 Comments

Mint Chocolate Shamrock Frappe

Mint Chocolate Shamrock Frappe

It’s that time of year again.  St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner and it just happens to be my favorite holiday (since there’s Irish in my blood and it’s my birthday)!  With this all things green holiday comes the return of the “Shamrock Shake” and while it is oh so delicious it is also oh so full of calories.  I read somewhere recently that 1 shake has more that 600 calories in it.  I was looking for a frozen drink that would have a similar flavor but wouldn’t be so heavy and that’s how my Mint Chocolate Shamrock Frappe was born.  You’ll love it!

Ingredients:

  • 8 coffee ice cubes (strong brewed coffee, poured into ice cube trays and frozen)
  • peppermint extract – how much will depend on how strong your extract is and how strong you want the mint flavor
  • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • green food coloring
  • whipped topping and additional chocolate syrup for topping if desired

Shamrock Frappe

 

 

Instructions:

Begin by mixing a small amount of green food coloring into your milk.  If you want to keep the recipe as low in calories as possible you can use a fat free milk or milk substitute.

Mint Chocolate Shamrock Frappe

 

 

Next combine your coffee ice cubes, the now green milk, sugar, peppermint extract, and chocolate syrup in your blender or frappe maker.

Mint Chocolate Shamrock Frappe

Blend on high until the mixture reaches desired consistency.  I like mine to be a bit more frozen so I use extra coffee ice cubes and not as much milk.   Pour into a tall glass and top with whipped topping and additional chocolate syrup if you desire!

You’ll love the flavor of the Mint Chocolate Shamrock Frappe and it will remind you of mint chocolate ice cream or that high calorie shake without the guilt!  You can certainly make this same treat without the green food coloring anytime or skip adding the food coloring for health reasons.  It will taste just as great!

Homemade Mint Chocolate Shamrock Frappe
Author: Jenni
Ingredients
  • 8 coffee ice cubes (strong brewed coffee, poured into ice cube trays and frozen)
  • peppermint extract – (how much will depend on how strong your extract is and how strong you want the mint flavor)
  • 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • green food coloring
  • whipped topping and additional chocolate syrup for topping if desired
Instructions
  1. Begin by mixing a small amount of green food coloring into your milk.
  2. Next combine your coffee ice cubes, milk, sugar, peppermint extract, and chocolate syrup in your blender or frappe maker.
  3. Blend on high until the mixture reaches desired consistency.
  4. Pour into a tall glass and top with whipped topping and additional chocolate syrup if you desire!

 

Don’t miss our other amazing homemade frappe recipes:

 

 

 

What are your favorite frozen coffee flavors?

 

grape jelly and bbq sauce little smokies

Grape Jelly and BBQ Sauce Little Smokies

by 3,122 Comments

welcome

 

grape jelly and bbq sauce little smokies

I’m so glad you’ve stopped by!

You’re needing a super quick and easy appetizer that you can whip up in no time, right?! This Grape Jelly and BBQ Sauce Little Smokies recipe is JUST what you need!

They’re always the first thing GONE at all of our parties! They’re gonna be the first thing gone at YOURS too! Guaranteed!!

You’ll love them so much – that you’re going to want to add them to your weekly menu plan when you’re having family game night, or when you’re having ANY kind of get together!

Need to take the stress and guess out of “What’s for Dinner”?!

Get my FREE printable & reusable Weekly Menu Planner to stick on your fridge!!! Just click below to get yours and I’ll deliver it INSTANTLY!


printable-menu-plan-offer-1

 

 

grape jelly and bbq sauce little smokiesClick NEXT button below to get the recipe Right NOW! 

NEXT

 

healthy sandwich spreads

7 Healthy Sandwich Spreads – Great Substitutes for Mayo

by 1,308 Comments

healthy sandwich spreads

Need some substitutes for mayo?

I’ve got some healthy sandwich spreads ideas!

I’m a big fan of a really great sandwich. A couple of our favorite sandwiches are this Copycat Starbucks Egg Salad Sandwich recipe and this Copycat Applebee’s Clubhouse Grille. I like to place myself on the same level as Joey Tribianni from the show Friends. He too, loves a really good sandwich!

Most women love a great plate of pasta, but for me — just give me a good sandwich! For the past year, I’ve been trying new healthier alternatives for some of my favorite recipes. I’ve come up with a nice list of healthy sandwich spreads which are great substitutes for mayo or Miracle Whip. We usually feel as though we’re getting ripped off if we don’t slather a little sum’n sum’n on our sandwiches. Who wants to eat an old dried up sandwich anyway, right?! I use and love EACH and EVERY one of these options below.

 

1. non-fat greek yogurt

The greek yogurt can be dressed up if you like by adding some seasoning. Any kind of seasoning that you like. A little salt and pepper, some garlic powder, some cayenne. You get my drift. I usually just stick a butter knife down in the container of greek yogurt and lay on a plain even layer of it to my favorite club or turkey sandwiches. It’s non-fat and it adds a bit of tang and texture to my sandwich that’s different from the norm. NOM!

 

2. hummus

Ohh yes, please! If you’ve never tried hummus as a sandwich spread — you MUST. Of course, you probably won’t like it if you don’t like hummus but I looooooove hummus. It’s another fun flavor and texture added to your sandwich instead of mayo. Much healthier too. I buy different flavors of hummus but my favorite is the roasted red pepper. Mmmm.

 

 

healthy sandwich spreads

3. mustard

Yep. You heard me right! You might already use mustard as a sandwich spread but if you’re also using mayo — just forget the mayo altogether. The mustard overpowers the flavor of the mayo anyway so it’s like “ghost” mayo. Like it’s not even really there. So why eat those calories when you can’t even TASTE it. Save those calories for something else!

 

4. pesto

Do you love pesto? My brain always connects pesto with pasta, though. However, I have been known to spread a little bit on a grilled chicken sandwich and it’s really really good. If you make your own, you can razzle-dazzle it up anyway you like.

 

healthy sandwich spreads

5. salsa

It adds some spice to your turkey or chicken sandwiches. I also love it on my breakfast sandwiches in the mornings. I just cook an egg and a turkey sausage patty in a non-stick skillet and toast some bread. Put the sandwich together and spread a little salsa on. Just a little “southwest” spin on a good sandwich.

 

healthy sandwich spreads

6. avocado

……or some guac! YES! Mash up a little avocado with a fork and spread on your sandwich. I love the texture of it and of course it’s fun because it’s green. This is an easy way to trick the kiddos into eating it too. Kids just think anything green is fun. If I don’t have any fresh avocados, then I usually always have some guacamole in the fridge.

 

7. honey mustard

Okay now I know what y’all are thinking. But don’t knock it till you try it. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a little bit of sweet with your tangy when it comes to a dressing. I personally love a little bit of honey mustard on a sandwich. We dip chicken in it right? Why not put a little dab on your sandwich? If you buy bottled honey mustard, you’ll probably notice that they’re not as low-fat as you’d think so I usually make my own at home. I don’t make a lot at once…just usually enough for my sandwich or for our chicken tenders at home. There are plenty of recipes out there, but I tend to shoot for easy and literally just mix a bit of dijon mustard with a bit of honey and stir it up. Voila.

 

Don’t miss these healthy posts on the blog…

 

healthy sandwich spreads

So, what do you think? Are you interested to try any of these healthy sandwich spreads? Do you have a different healthier substitute for mayo? If so, we’d love to hear!!! Drop us a comment.

Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters

Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters with Cherries

by 396 Comments

I have a confession.  At some point I have developed a sweet tooth.  It never used to be this way.  I used to always go for the salty or sour snack over something like chocolate but recently that’s changed.  It was always easy to find somewhat healthy options for salty type snacks but sweets are a bit tougher.  These Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters with Cherries are the perfect solution!  Not only are they delicious but they are a much healthier option.  Because they are homemade I also know everything that goes into them and feel good about my family enjoying them!

Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters

Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters with Cherries

Ingredients:

 

Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters with Cherries

 

Instructions:

In a microwave safe bowl combine the chocolate chips and the coconut oil.  Melt on high in the microwave for 2-3 minutes stirring often.

Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters with Cherries

 

 

When the chocolate and coconut oil are completely melted and smooth add the walnuts and dried cherries.  Stirring them together until all are well coated.

Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters with Cherries

 

 

Drop the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper using a large spoon.

Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters with Cherries

Place the clusters in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to help the chocolate set.  Remove from freezer and let them harden the rest of the way.

Transfer to a platter to serve right away or into mini cupcake wrappers.  If you are not going to serve immediately (or eat them all, trust me it is tempting) place them in an air tight container and store in a cool place.

These are a great treat and there are so many health benefits of dark chocolate, coconut oil, walnuts and cherries!  Make some of these and share with your Valentine!

Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters with Cherries
Recipe Type: Dessert
Author: Jenni
Dark Chocolate Nut Clusters with Dried Cherries and Coconut Oil make a delicious and guilt free homemade treat!
Ingredients
  • 24 oz dark chocolate chips
  • 2 cups chopped walnuts
  • 1 tbsp organic virgin coconut oil
  • 1 1/2 cups dried cherries
  • parchment paper
Instructions
  1. In a microwave safe bowl combine the chocolate chips and the coconut oil. Melt on high in the microwave for 2-3 minutes stirring often.
  2. When the chocolate and coconut oil are completely melted and smooth add the walnuts and dried cherries. Stirring them together until all are well coated.
  3. Drop the mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper using a large spoon.
  4. Place the clusters in the freezer for 10-15 minutes to help the chocolate set. Remove from freezer and let them harden the rest of the way.
  5. Transfer to a platter to serve right away or into mini cupcake wrappers. If you are not going to serve immediately (or eat them all, trust me it is tempting) place them in an air tight container and store in a cool place.

 

Don’t miss these other yummy treats…

peanut butter s'moresTagalong Peanut Butter S’Mores

 

Do you have any favorite treat recipes that have a healthy twist?

 

 

raspberry white hot chocolate

Frozen Raspberry White Hot Chocolate Recipe

by 674 Comments

Recently we shared a recipe for a special treat of Frozen Hot Chocolate.  If you liked the recipe and idea, you’ll love this Frozen Raspberry White Hot Chocolate!  The white chocolate gives this frozen treat a creamy texture and you’ll love the raspberry flavor.  It’s an easy dessert or a special treat for a special night like Valentine’s Day!

I’m joining up with some other bloggers to share 12 days of Valentine’s Day Desserts. I think these are so much fun. If you missed any of the previous days that I’ve shared, no worries – you’ll find them all towards the end of this post.

raspberry white hot chocolate

Frozen Raspberry White Hot Chocolate Recipe

Supplies and Ingredients:

 

Frozen Raspberry White Hot Chocolate

 

 

Instructions:

Combine the white chocolate melts, the vanilla extract, the raspberry extract, and milk in a sauce pan over medium heat.  Stir constantly until the mixture is liquid and smooth.

Frozen Raspberry White Hot Chocolate

Pour the raspberry white hot chocolate into ice cube trays.  This should fill about 2 1/2 trays.  Freeze until cubes are solid.

 

 

Frozen Raspberry White Hot Chocolate

Once the cubes are solid remove them from the freezer and place them into the blender. Blend on high until the cubes are crushed and the mixture is smooth.  You will not need to add any additional liquid as the cubes do not freeze hard.  Pour into glass mugs or pretty dessert cups.

Frozen Raspberry White Hot Chocolate

Top with whipped topping and serve at once!  You can also add sprinkles like the red, white and pink hearts if you choose.  Enjoy with someone you love!

Frozen Raspberry White Hot Chocolate
Recipe Type: Drinks
Author: Jenni
Prep time:
Total time:
Serves: 4
Frozen Raspberry White Hot Chocolate is the perfect frozen treat! Rich and creamy and full of raspberry flavor.
Ingredients
  • 10 oz white chocolate melts
  • 1 tbsp raspberry flavoring or extract – mine was colored red which created the pink
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 cups milk or heavy cream or a combination of the 2
  • whipped topping
  • blender or smoothie maker
Instructions
  1. Combine the white chocolate melts, the vanilla extract, the raspberry extract, and milk in a sauce pan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture is liquid and smooth.
  2. Pour the raspberry white hot chocolate into ice cube trays. This should fill about 2 1/2 trays. Freeze until cubes are solid.
  3. Once the cubes are solid remove them from the freezer and place them into the blender. Blend on high until the cubes are crushed and the mixture is smooth. You will not need to add any additional liquid as the cubes do not freeze hard. Pour into glass mugs or pretty cups.
  4. Top with whipped topping and serve at once! You can also add sprinkles like the red, white and pink hearts if you choose. Enjoy with someone you love!

Don’t miss these other fantastic drinks on the blog:

 

Here are the other Valentine’s Day Desserts I promised…enjoy!



 

3 envelope roast

3 Envelope Roast – Slow Cooker Recipe

by 59 Comments

3 envelope roast

3 Envelope Roast Slow Cooker Recipe

So this past week my friend Myrtle shared a yum pot roast recipe with me. She loves to cook and she said this 3 envelope roast in the slow cooker was – as she said “to die for”. Roast with onions, potatoes and carrots is probably my most favorite comfort food. The roast just falls apart and melts in your mouth. Mmmm…yes please!

I made this recipe yesterday in my slow cooker. The husband comes home from work with an aching back and says he’s going to bed early. The pot roast still had quite a ways to go before it was done. So he decides he’s gonna have to miss out on the roast and he opted for frozen burritos and leftover spaghetti. REALLY! True story! That’s what he had for dinner, and then not even 15 minutes after finishing his plate – the pot roast was done! Let’s just say I had a nice sized plate SLAP full! It was sooo good so I’m sharing it with you. I hope you enjoy!!

 

3 envelope roast

3 Envelope Roast Slow Cooker Indredients:

  • 2.5 or 3 lb. Chuck Roast
  • 1 envelope Ranch dressing mix
  • 1 envelope Italian dressing mix
  • 1 envelope brown gravy mix
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 5-6 potatoes, quartered (I leave skins on)
  • 1 lb. bag of baby carrots

Instructions:

  • Add roast, onions, potatoes and carrots to your slow cooker. I personally use the Reynold’s Slow Cooker Liners and recommend them. They make cleanup a breeze!
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups water and the contents of all 3 envelope packets using a whisk. Pour over the roast and vegetables.
  • Cook on high for 6-8 hours or until roast and vegetables are tender, checking often so not to overcook.
3 Envelope Roast Slow Cooker Recipe
Author: Jenni
Ingredients
  • 2.5 or 3 lb. Chuck Roast
  • 1 envelope Ranch dressing mix
  • 1 envelope Italian dressing mix
  • 1 envelope brown gravy mix
  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 5-6 potatoes, quartered (I leave skins on)
  • 1 lb. bag of baby carrots
Instructions
  1. Add roast, onions, potatoes and carrots to your slow cooker.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups water and the contents of all 3 envelope packets using a whisk. Pour over the roast and vegetables.
  3. Cook on high for 6-8 hours or until roast and vegetables are tender, checking often so not to overcook.

 

Don’t miss these other awesome recipes on the blog…

Corn and Sausage BisqueCorn & Sausage Bisque

hot dog recipes17 Incredible and Fun Hot Dog Recipes

grape jelly and bbq sauce meatballsGrape Jelly and BBQ Sauce Slow Cooker Meatballs

What are your favorite comfort foods?

 

3-d valentine's day cookies

Super Cute 3-D Valentine’s Day Cookies

by 550 Comments

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Bakery Crafts. All opinions are 100% mine.

3-D Valentine's Day Cookies

Need a unique V-Day classroom exchange idea?

How about Cute 3-D Valentine’s Day Cookies and Juice Pouches!

Cookies are fun. They’re fun to make and they’re even more fun to eat, right?! But have you ever made a 3-D cookie?! I bet you haven’t. Neither had I until I found these awesome-sauce 3-D Valentine’s Day cookie cutters! What the what??!!

valentines-day-3d-cookie-cutters-from-bakery-crafts-2

I found these really awesome 3-D cookie cutters at Walmart in the V-Day seasonal aisle from Bakery Crafts. The seasonal aisle at Walmart is like my personal playground. Anywhoo…Bakery Crafts also had cute candy hearts and a sweet Valentine’s Day Decorating Kit with a banner and cupcake picks. But since we do cupcakes alot, I thought cookies would be fun so I went for these awesome cookie cutters. The whole 3-D cookie is a new concept to me, so I was ready to give these a whirl and I love how they turned out!!!

I was seriously going to go for some easy refrigerated cookie dough but I opted to use the sugar cookie recipe on the back of the cookie cutter package. I’m going to share that recipe with you…and then you can snag some of these cute Bakery Crafts 3-D Valentine’s Day cookie cutters and make some. Little man just thought that these were the coolest!

valentines-day-3d-cookie-cookies-cut-out

(Tip: When laying the cookies out on the cookie sheet, use caution when transferring the cut out dough. The trunk of the elephants and the tails of the lions are easy to break. I used the tip of a fork to loosen the dough from the cutters straight onto the cookie sheets.)

The recipe on the package made several cookies. The recipe makes approx. 5 animals (inlcuding the animal, legs, and the hearts for the ears and the mane). For each animal, you’re actually getting 4 cookies per animal. For classroom exchanges, I think we’ll package the cookies un-assembled and then let the kids assemble them themselves. I think they’d have a lot of fun doing that!

valentines-day-3d-cookies-frosted

Sugar Cookie recipe ingredients:

  • 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 sticks of butter (room temp)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

  • Combine flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
  • In a separate bowl, mix butter and sugar with a mixer.
  • Mix in egg and vanilla.
  • Incorporate dry ingredients into the creamed mixture.
  • Refrigerate dough for at least 1 hour.
  • Dust with flour before rolling out the dough.
  • Roll out cookie dough and cut pieces using the cookie cutters in the Bakery Crafts 3-D Valentine’s Day Cookie Cutter kit. *Reference the packaging as to how many pieces you will need to cut to complete your cookie animals.
  • Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes, let cookies cool completely.
  • Ice the cookies using any flavor icing you like. We used cookie icing.
  • Assemble the pieces together to make your own animals. For classroom exchange, package pieces individually and let the kids assemble for fun.

 

 

valentines-day-3d-cookies-elephant-2

To keep up with Bakery Crafts products and ideas, visit them on Facebook and Pinterest!

Like Bakery Crafts on Facebook

Check out Bakery Crafts on Pinterest

Super Cute 3-D Valentine’s Day Cookies
Author: Jenni
Ingredients
  • 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 sticks of butter (room temp)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
  1. Combine flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix butter and sugar with a mixer.
  3. Mix in egg and vanilla.
  4. Incorporate dry ingredients into the creamed mixture.
  5. Refrigerate dough for at least 1 hour.
  6. Dust with flour before rolling out the dough.
  7. Roll out cookie dough and cut pieces using the cookie cutters in the Bakery Crafts 3-D Valentine’s Day Cookie Cutter kit. *Reference the packaging as to how many pieces you will need to cut to complete your cookie animals.
  8. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes, let cookies cool completely.
  9. Ice the cookies using any flavor icing you like. We used cookie icing.
  10. Assemble the pieces together to make your own animals. For classroom exchange, package pieces individually and let the kids assemble for fun.

Visit Sponsors Site

hot dog recipes

17 Incredible and Fun Hot Dog Recipes You Have to Try

by 480 Comments

hot dog recipes

17 Incredible Hot Dog Recipes

My husband’s favorite meal is chili dogs with macaroni and cheese. That’s been his favorite since we met. To be honest, I used to love a good chili dog until he burnt me out on them. Every week. Week in, and week out…..chili dogs with macaroni and cheese. I have found some incredible and really fun hot dog recipes while searching online though. Have mercy (my inner uncle Jesse coming out)!!!

If you’re in the same ole’ same ole’ hot dog rut as we are, then let’s enjoy some of these new recipes together! You can’t deny a good hot dog. Neither can my husband or the kiddo so I know he’ll love most – if not ALL of these ideas. Enjoy!

 

hot dog recipesHot Dogs for a Crowd from 365’ish Pins

 

hot dog recipes

Loaded Oven Chili Dogs by Mostly Homemade Mom

 

hot dog recipes

Texas Corn Dogs by Damn Delicious

 

hot dog recipes

Mac and Cheese Hot Dogs by Taste and Tell Blog

 

hot dog recipes

Nacho Crusted Crescent Dogs by Pillsbury

 

hot dog recipes

Mini Corn Dog Muffins by Iowa Girl Eats

 

hot dog recipes
Simple Homemade Pretzel Dogs by The SlowRoasted Italian

 

hot dog recipes

Mummy Hot Dogs by Get Creative Juice

 

hot dog recipes

Chili Dog Casserole with Cheese Fries by Weary Chef

 

hot dog recipes

Taco Dogs by Taste and Tell Blog

 

hot dog recipes

Pizza Dogs by Taste and Tell Blog

 

hot dog recipes

Easy Homemade Corn Dogs by Chef in Training

 

hot dog recipes

Firecracker Dogs by Handmade in the Heartland

 

hot dog recipes

Octo Dogs by Crafty Moods

 

hot dog recipes

Detroit-Style Coney Island Hot Dogs by From Away

 

hot dog recipes

Tennessee Smoky Hot Dogs by Nibble Me This

 

hot dog recipes

Chicago Style Hot Dogs by Seeded at the Table

 

 

Don’t miss these other favorite recipes …

What’s your favorite hot dog recipes?

 

7 healthy recipe hacks

7 Healthy Recipe Hacks #MomsCheckIn

by 63 Comments

7 healthy recipe hacks

7 Healthy Recipe Hacks

One of my favorite things to do is eat. I can’t help. I just love food. The older I get though, the more I realize how much the extra weight I’ve put on is affecting my overall health. One little trick I’ve learned to help combat extra fat and calories, but still being allowed to eat my favorite things – is to make healthy swaps with my ingredients.

Our “Moms Check In” crew and I are sharing some of our favorite healthy recipe hacks below. If your goal is to lose a few pounds while still eating some really delicious treats and food then you’ll love these!

 

 

 

Amanda-626x1024“Sometimes you just need something rich, creamy, cheesy and delicious. Alfredo is one of my favorites and if I could, I would eat it a lot more than I do! But usually it’s full of heavy cream and lots of butter. When I first heard about using cream cheese instead, I wasn’t so sure. But this recipe is a winner! It’s delicious, better than any jar sauce and you would NEVER know this Alfredo sauce is a lighter version than the original!“

– Amanda is the mom to Joshua and owns It’s a Fabulous Life. If you are looking for a one stop place for all things mom, It’s a Fabulous Life is it! Full of recipes, fashion, DIY projects, recipes and parenting articles it’s the place for all of Mom’s favorites to come together! Follow her on Twitter here!

 

 

Jenni-Eaves1-213x300

“ I’ve been making some healthy recipe swaps the last couple of years. I really love the idea of still being able to eat everything I love, but I also love the challenge of finding new ways to make a healthier version of those recipes. For instance, these 2-ingredient pumpkin muffins have no oil or eggs. Super moist and much healthier. Also, swapping out mayo or sour cream for non-fat greek yogurt. GENIUS! Here are 25 easy greek yogurt recipes on the blog including dips, cakes, cookies and more!“

– Jenni is the mom of one and the author of Sweet Pennies From Heaven. A hearth and home website, Sweet Pennies From Heaven focuses on recipes, crafts and creating a comfortable home. Follow her on Twitter here!

 

 

LindsayHeadShot3Border-300x300“I love baked goods way more than I should so to shed some of the fat, calories, and guilt, I started replacing oil in some of my recipes with either applesauce or Greek yogurt. You lose none of the flavor and in fact, I’ve found that I prefer my muffins and breads made this way. Two of my favorite muffin recipes with these swaps are these Peanut Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins and my Mini Pumpkin Muffins with Cinnamon Chips. The one I make the most is this easy Banana Bread with Greek Yogurt. So moist and tasty!“

– Lindsay is the mom of 2 and author of See Mom Click. She shares great deals, Disney happenings and recipes. You can follow her on Twitter here!

 

 

stephanie“Party food is so much fun and even more so when you’ve snuck in some healthy foods! These Naturally Colored Red Velvet Cupcakes use beets instead of red food dye to bring them their vibrant color. Your kids will never know the difference!“

– Stephanie is the mom to Sam and the author of Spaceships and Laser Beams. If you ever need party ideas her site is the place to visit! Specializing in all things boy, it’s full of inspiration! Follow her on Twitter here!

 

 

moms-check-in-1 What is Moms Check In?

Who are the moms of Moms Check In? We’re 4 moms who are also professional bloggers. We chat about a new topic each week. We talk about things from dirty diapers to date night, and everything in between. Moms love to talk to other moms and let’s face it…MOMS know everything!! If you happen to be a blogger also, and want to be a guest host one week, please fill out this form. We’d love to have you join us!

Before you leave, let us know…

Do you have any favorite healthy recipe hacks?

 

Frozen Hot Chocolate

Simple Frozen Hot Chocolate Recipe

by 135 Comments

Hi Guys!  This is Racquel.  If you’ve been following my posts here on Sweet Pennies from Heaven, you have more than likely figured out that Jenni and I both have a frappe addiction, right?  Today I have something to share that is just as delicious as our favorite frappe recipes on the blog and a ton of fun.  Frozen Hot Chocolate is one of my kids’ favorite treats and it’s a great alternative to a coffee drink for me!

Frozen Hot Chocolate

Frozen Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup hot chocolate – you can use a mix or homemade
  • 1/2 cup milk – or a flavored coffee creamer is great too
  • 1 tbsp chocolate syrup
  • blender

You may also want whipped topping and additional chocolate syrup for topping the drink.

Frozen Hot Chocolate

Instructions:

Make hot chocolate according to package instructions or recipe.  Allow hot chocolate to cool completely.  Pour the hot chocolate into an ice cube tray and freeze.

When the hot chocolate ice cubes are completely frozen transfer them to your blender.

Add the milk and chocolate syrup to the ice cubes.  I like to use flavored coffee creamer such as peppermint mocha.  You can also use a milk substitute like almond or coconut milk.

Blend on high until the ice is crushed and the drink is smooth.

Top with whipped topping and drizzle with chocolate syrup.

Frozen Hot Chocolate
Recipe Type: Drinks
Author: Jenni
Frozen Hot Chocolate is a fun and delicious treat!
Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup hot chocolate – you can use a mix or homemade
  • 1/2 cup milk – or a flavored coffee creamer is great too
  • 1 tbsp chocolate syrup
  • blender
  • You may also want whipped topping and additional chocolate syrup for topping the drink.
Instructions
  1. Make hot chocolate according to package instructions or recipe. Allow hot chocolate to cool completely. Pour the hot chocolate into an ice cube tray and freeze.
  2. When the hot chocolate ice cubes are completely frozen transfer them to your blender.
  3. Add the milk and chocolate syrup to the ice cubes. I like to use flavored coffee creamer such as peppermint mocha. You can also use a milk substitute like almond or coconut milk.
  4. Blend on high until the ice is crushed and the drink is smooth.
  5. Top with whipped topping and drizzle with chocolate syrup.

Next time you’re craving a frozen treat like a frappe or milk shake, give our Frozen Hot Chocolate a try!  I can’t wait to share variations on this delicious treat with you in the coming weeks!

Don’t miss these amazing frappe recipes…

What’s your favorite frozen drink?

 

the chick behind this blog! I'm your ordinary, everyday wife and mom to an incredible pair of stinky guys! I am a self diagnosed coffee addict with a ginormous sweet tooth, preferably baked goods!! My hope is to help you, teach you, and entertain you on your way to a more thrifty and frugal lifestyle! Along the way, you'll find awesome recipes, great tips, and tons of randomness! We have loads of fun, so ya'll come back now, ya hear?!

Quick Links