InspireMe Crafts

Valentine’s Day Snack Mix

"When love is not madness, it is not love" – Pedro Calderon de la Barca

My whole family is crazy in love with some of these chex recipes I have been trying out. The latest addiction is the Chex Peanut Butter and Chocolate Blast recipe. With a few tweaks to the original recipe it is perfect for Valentine's day and a yummy gift for a teacher, friend, the grandparents, etc.

(recipe from back of chex box with a few accidental tweaks)

INGREDIENTS:

6 cups Rice Chex cereal
1 cup white vanilla baking chips (8 oz) (I used pink for V-Day)
1 cup peanut butter chips
1 cup candy-coated peanut butter candies (I used Valentine's Peanut M&M's)
1 cup dry roasted peanuts

DIRECTIONS:

Line 2 cookie sheets with foil or waxed paper. Place 3 cups cereal in large bowl. In small microwavable bowl, microwave white vanilla baking chips uncovered on High about 1 minute or until chips can be stirred smooth. Pour melted chips over cereal in bowl; stir to evenly coat. Spread mixture in single layer on one of the cookie sheets. Refrigerate 5 minutes or until set.

Repeat the above using the remaining cereal and the peanut butter chips; refrigerate 5 minutes or until set.

Gently break up coated cereal into large bowl. Add candy and peanuts; stir gently to combine. Store in airtight container.

To package I used some cellophane bags with some felt Valentine's heart stickers.

Enjoy! See if you can make it last more than one day…didn't work in this household. Guess I'll have to make it again to try J.

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Mason Jar Cupcakes

"Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional" – Chili Davis

If you have been an InspireMe Crafts follower for a while, you know by now that if it weren't for the last minute, I wouldn't get anything done! Once again, I waited until the last minute to get something in the mail to my sister for her 22^nd birthday (but it doesn't mean I love her any less…you got that sis?). The surprise package had to travel from Virginia to Idaho via good ole USPS so it was essential to get it in the mail on Friday. Thursday night I decided I would try out this cupcake in a mason jar thing, Friday morning I grabbed the supplies, Friday at 12pm I started baking cupcakes and at 3:45pm I was dropping them off at the post office. I guess the good thing about my procrastination problem is that you are guaranteed quick and easy project ideas.

I didn't have any time to research recipes and ideas, but I can only imagine the yummy possibilities. I had leftover Mason jars with chalkboard tops from my Mason Jar Drinks and grabbed boxed cupcake mix and frosting from the store.

1. Grab your jars.

1. Bake some cupcakes. Let them cool. I cut off the top portion. Placed first cupcake in jar.

1. Mixed up some frosting in her school colors. Place frosting in Ziploc bag, cut off corner, and use it to tube it into the jar for the first layer. Add another cupcake and layer of frosting.

Then sprinkles…

Off in the mail they go. I wanted to do the Cupcake in a mason jar because I thought it was cute… pretty simple motives. I am a pretty simple gal. However, it turned out to be a fantastic idea if you want to mail a treat. Obviously, mailing cupcakes to Idaho probably would have arrived as one large mushy mess with frosting all over the box (it wouldn't stop me from digging in), but not quite the look I am going for. Problem solved when you mail them in a mason jar! According to the birthday girl/official taste tester they were still fresh and delicious upon arrival (I did mail them priority mail so they would get there in 2-3 days). So far we have decided cupcakes in a mason jar are 1) cute, 2) practical, and to wrap up my argument that everyone should have cupcakes in a mason jar….3)it's just fun! I don't know why, but taking a spoon and digging in just made it seem like a whole new dessert and experience. A must try for anyone of any age.

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

DIY Cupcake Stand

"Coffee makes it possible to get out of bed, but cupcakes make it worthwhile."

I'm not a morning person. Even if I get 8 hours of sleep, my husband quivers as he utters his first morning words to me trying to figure out if I will smile or bite his head off. After 10 years of being together he has figured out a way to make mornings just a little less painful as I open my eyes and remember that I do have a heart.

Coffee. And even better, coffee delivered in bed. How can I be grumpy with a loving husband that brings me my coffee? I can't, right?!

Coffee definitely makes it possible to get out of bed, but cupcakes do make the day worthwhile. Luckily, I have been blessed with a fabulous friend and neighbor…did I mention her passion is baking? We love her evening surprises of special treats from cake truffles to the above Pumpkin Spiced Latte Cupcake, but our waistlines are calling her all sorts of bad names. As I am biting into my 2^nd Pumpkin Spiced Latte Cupcake of the day, I am secretly calling her that "no-good, diet sabotaging, calorie adding, muffin top promoting, baking beeatch…." Really, though…she's not a beeatch - just a fun-loving baking genius. J

With all the treats we were "taste-testing", my creative juices were flowing and I thought her delicious treats needed a Cupcake Stand suitable for her masterpieces. I have seen all sorts of DIY cupcake stands using candlesticks and plates, but I thought some Terra Cotta pots plus some new pearl Martha Stewart Paint would make a "perty" cupcake stand. $5 and you are ready to go.

The "pearliness" in the paint is gorgeous so I decided it needed some bling too! I had some sparkly stickers to write "Enjoy" and then decorative crystals to "bling-up" the bottom of the Cupcake Stand.

Ooooohhh….I mean look at that Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcake…. Delish! You want to enjoy it, don't you!?

With a special delivery like this you would be sure to make even your enemy's day!

Look at my boys ooogling over the cupcake and the pretty girl!

I'm in love with this Terra Cotta Cupcake Stand. Inexpensive and pretty and useful! I am also thinking of placing my business cards on it for a Holiday Show and even making one to hold some of my jewelry. There is always more than one use for something;).

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Day 12 of 92 Crafty Days of Summer: Red, White & Blue Sprinkled Ice Cream Sandwiches…on a stick

"This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave" – Elmer Davis

So this post is going to be quick and to the point! Take ice cream sandwiches + popsicle stick + red, white, & blue sprinkles and you get this reaction...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adults and kiddos will enjoy this fun 4^th of July treat…we sure did tonight! I can't remember where I saw this idea, but who knew a popsicle stick and sprinkles could turn an ordinary ice cream sandwich into some extraordinary?! (Cheesy, I know…but you know I like to be cheesy)

I'm sure you can figure out how to do this on your own, but here are a few tips. I removed them from the wrappers and let them soften up just a bit. Then I put the stick into the bottom of the ice cream sandwich. Sprinkle the sprinkles and place on a plate. I put some wax paper in between different layers so I could pile them on top of each other. Enjoy. Fast, simple, and festive. That's day 12 of the challenge and I barely made it today. I had the project done earlier, but then we were having too much fun with friends that I am just getting around to writing this. But you have a couple days until the 4^th of July so you can still do it!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Easter Egg Nest & Rice Krispie Treat Eggs

"For I remember it is Easter morn,
And life and love and peace are all new born."  ~Alice Freeman Palmer

Rice Krispie Treats are a weak spot of mine and to be honest I don't think I have met anyone who hasn't been a fan of the marshmallow and rice cereal combo.  The Lil Man and I added one more step to include his favorite sweets....sprinkles and chocolate.  So if you are in need of a quick, last minute Hostess gift or a surprise for a special friend or family member, you'll definitely want to get started! 

RICE KRISPIE TREAT EGGS:

1.  Follow directions on package of cereal or marshmallows to make the treat.  Lay out wax paper.  While treats are still warm, place some butter on your hands and start shaping the rice krispie treats into egg shapes.  We did some bite size ones for the egg nest and some bigger ones to dip and sprinkle.  Once the egg krispie's have cooled, heat some chocolate according to the directions.  For the larger eggs we dipped them in and then added sprinkles.  For the little eggs, I used a cooking brush to apply the light blue chocolate to resemble a Robin's egg.  Place on wax paper and let the chocolate harden. 

EGG NEST:

MATERIALS:  Tuna can, yarn, glue, tissue paper

1.  Use an old tuna can (that has been rinsed and washed of course :)) for the base of the nest. If you don't have any left over tuna cans you could use a small bowl found at the dollar tree or even a plastic one.  Glue one end of the yarn to the can to secure in place.  Start wrapping it around and around until you can't see the tuna can underneath anymore.  Glue the other end of the yarn into place to secure.  Add some tissue paper to the inside.  Add egg krispie treats.  Give to a friend :). 

Enjoy and have a wonderful Easter! 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss: Bake a Cake

Little man's pre-school class is celebrating Dr Seuss's birthday all week and the teacher wanted a birthday cake today to add to the birthday celebration. So today we sent in a Cat in the Hat cake for them to enjoy. You could still do it this afternoon with your little ones or for them. With sick kids right now, I needed something quick and easy. Is the cake bakery perfect? Far from it! But it gets the point across, was fast, and put a smile on little man's face. Did I mention how much I love box cake mix? In the terms of little man, "it's easy-peasy".

1. Bake your cake.
2. Draw a simple outline just on the top of the cake (not all the way through in case you have to fix it). Once you have the outline you like, then cut all the way through to the bottom. Remove outer edges. In hindsight, don't cut the outline still in the pan like I did. I then had to transfer it to the baking sheet and worry about not breaking it. Take the whole cake out first, place on your plate or baking sheet and then cut out your outline.

1. Add some frosting. Or if you are really fancy and want a more professional looking cake you could used rolled fondant. I've never used it before so no tips from me L. I guess I'll have to give rolled fondant a try one of these days.
2. I was looking for easy-peasy so I just did red sprinkles for my stripes. However, you could use food coloring to die some of the frosting red.

It's not too late to celebrate Dr. Seuss and the happiness and laughter he has brought into our homes for decades. Continue to the celebration all week and enjoy a fun cake one day J.

Be inspired, get creative and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: Peppermint Chocolate Pretzel Sticks

Easy, easy, easy. The peppermint chocolate pretzel sticks are so easy your 4 year old can do it J. But just because your 4 year old can do it does not mean that the adults will not enjoy the final treat. The peppermint pretzel sticks are a yummy treat for all ages and great for little gifts around the holidays. That perfect mix of salt and sweet. In fact, I wanted to package them all cute and write a post about different packaging ideas, but the chocolate pretzel sticks did not last long enough in our house for me to even attempt some different ideas. I guess I'll have to make them again – oh bummer ;)

INGREDIENTS:
Pretzel sticks
Candy canes
Peppermint flavored chocolate (I found my baking chocolate at Jo-Anne's Fabrics, but Michaels carries it too)

STEP 1: Crush the peppermint sticks/candy canes…choose preferred method below

This was truly the most amusing part of the process for us and gave the Lil Man and myself the giggles. I thought I was having a smart mommy moment when I suggested that we just get one really big candy cane stick instead of a whole bunch of little candy canes. I thought there would be less wrappers to take off and less crushing. Well, I was wrong. The smaller candy canes would have been much easier to crush. We had the darndest time trying to crush the big candy cane as you can witness from the pictures below.

Idea 1: Put in gallon Ziploc bag and bang it with rolling pin. Failed.
Idea 2: Put in gallon Ziploc bag, tighten the grip on the bag just around the candy cane and bang the heck out of it onto the kitchen counter. Failed.
Idea 3: Use the Pampered Chef Chopper. Yay, it worked! However, beware of this because it did ruin my chopper a little.

Learn from our mistakes…go with the small candy canes J

STEP 2: Melt peppermint chocolate in microwave using the package instructions.
STEP 3: Take Pretzel sticks and dip into chocolate, using a swirling motion

STEP 4: Roll peppermint chocolate pretzel stick into the crushed candy canes. We did half with candy canes and the other half just left them with the chocolate.

As you can see below, this is so easy your 4 year old can do it while he enjoys a pretzel!

STEP 5: Place on wax or parchment paper to let them harden.

STEP 6: Package and give away.

{Insert photo here of how you think you would package it since we thought they were too delicious to make it that far in the process}

If you decide to give these away for quick and delicious Christmas treats, we'd love to see some of the different ways you package them. Just email them to inspiremecrafts (at) yahoo (.) com.

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Message Photo Blocks

"There are only two lasting bequests we can hope to give our children. One is roots; the other, wings". – Hodding Carter

Christmas is just around the corner and I'm sure you are starting to look for some ideas for personalized Christmas gifts for your loved ones. We originally made these message photo blocks for Grandparent's Day, but it would really work for any holiday!

I originally got the idea after seeing this blog post on Brassy Apple. Instead of framing the photos, I made photo blocks out of them. I did one block for each grandparent, so each block contains the picture of Lil Man with 'I', 'heart', 'U', and 'I heart U'.

MATERIALS:

1 wood block ( I chose a 4x4 inch)
4 photos (need the letters you want to take the photos). I had photos printed at store for top quality.
Mod Podge or your favorite decoupage
Black paint
2-4 Foam brushes
Scissors

HOW-TO:

1. Paint your wood block black (or your chosen accent color) on all sides. Let dry
2. Cut your pictures to size.
3. Apply thin coat of Mod Podge to back of picture. Adhere to wood block. Smooth out bubbles by using a cloth over the picture. Repeat on each side. Let dry according to directions on decoupage. Usually 20 minutes.
4. Apply coat of Mod Podge over the top of picture and block. You may have to do a couple of pictures at a time, let dry and then do the others. Make sure to get the corners and sides of the pictures as well.
Note: It helps to rest the block on a cup upside down or something similar so the Mod Podge doesn't adhere to the newspaper you may have underneath for dripping.
5. Let dry overnight.
6. Give to a loved one. J

I hope you enjoy as you prepare for the holidays!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: Scrumptious Snickerdoodles

"Think what a better world it would be if we all, the whole world, had cookies and milk about three o'clock every afternoon and then lay day on our blankets for a nap." - Robert Fulghum

 

If you put a rainy day and the Better Homes & Gardens Homemade Cookies Cookbook together, you will never be disappointed.  Lil Man and I made some scrumptious snickerdoodles and I'm sure its the cookbook to credit and not the amateur bakers :).  If you are snickerdoodle lover try this recipes....

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 cream of tartar
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

DIRECTIONS:

1.  In a medium mixing bowl beat butter with an electric  mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds.  Add the 1 cup sugar, baking soda, and cream of tartar; beat until combined, scraping sides occasionally.  Beat in egg and vanilla until combined.  Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer.  Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour.  Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

2.  In a small bowl combine the 2 tablespoons sugar and the cinnamon.  Shape dough into 1-inch balls.  Roll balls in the sugar-cinnamon mixture to coat.  Place 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. 

3.  Bake in a 375 degree oven for 10 to 11 minutes or until edges are golden brown.  Transfer cookies to a wire rack; cool.  Enjoy. 

In case you are like me and haven't used cream of tartar in any baking...you can find it in the spices section!   :)

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: Chex Muddy Buddies a.k.a. Puppy Chow

 

Chex Muddy Buddies (or I grew up calling it "Puppy Chow") are sure to be a pleaser for kids and adults!  I must admit that when first looking at them they do not look that appetizing, but looks are definitely deceiving in this case.  I found some cute tins at the DollarTree, lined them with some cling wrap and filled them up with muddy buddies for Happy New Year gifts for my husband's co-workers.  Give them a try and you will not be disappointed! 

INGREDIENTS:

9 cups Chex cereal (any variety)
1 bag (6 oz) semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter or margarine
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 gallon plastic food storage bag
wax paper

DIRECTIONS:

Into large bowl, measure cereal; set aside.  In 1-quart microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter uncovered on High 1 minute; stir.  Microwave 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth.  Stir in vanilla.  Pour chocolate mixture over cereal in bowl, stirring until evenly coated.  Pour into 20 gallon plastic food storage bag; add powdered sugar.  Seal bag; shake until well coated.  Spread on waxed paper to cool.  Store in airtight container in refrigerator.  9 cups snack. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: Cranberry Orange Nut Bread

 

I noticed this recipe for Cranberry Orange Nut Bread on the back of a package of frozen OcenSpray cranberries that I had left over from Thanksgiving.  Let's just say my taste buds were delighted that we decided to try it and the waist wasn't quite as happy.  It's definitely worth making and is wonderful for the holiday season!

INGREDIENTS

2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon grated orange peel
1 egg, well beaten
1 1/2 cups Ocean Spray fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
1/2 cup chopped nuts (I chose the hubby's favorite, pecans)

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350.  Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.  Mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and baking soda in a medium mixing bowl.  Stir in orange juice, oil, orange peel and egg. Mix until well blended.  Stir in cranberries and nuts. Spread evenly in loaf pan. Bake for 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.  Cool on rack for 15 minutes.  Remove from pan; cool completely. 

I couldn't quite wait until it was completely cooled to try and it was delicious warm!  Enjoy!

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Gotta Bake It: Halloween Popcorn Balls

"Trick or Treat. Be so sweet. Give me something good to eat."

 

I've got a soft spot for Peanut M&M's so there's usually some hiding somewhere in the house...if I can even get them to last long enough to hide them! I purchased a special Halloween bag and noticed a recipe for Popcorn Pumpkins on the bag.  The mouth started watering as I remembered all the different colored Popcorn balls my mom would make for us as a kid.   I use to think it was the greatest thing!  This had to be a project that we would try!  Plus they had a cute idea of making pumpkins out of them (as you can see we didn't get that far because I couldn't find orange cellophane).  To see pictures and to get the directions go to Bright Ideas. 

My son has the same love for Peanut M&M's so they didn't quite make it into the Popcorn ball mixture when they needed to.  Instead of sticking to the popcorn balls, they went right to the bottom of the bowl.  Oh well.  And I must warn you to be prepared for the mess...that corn syrup mixture gets hard rather fast! 

We made some stickers on the computer, tied the bow and we had a gift for him to give to all his friends.  I'm sure their parents will love me since I tried one and oh my gosh does it stick to the teeth!  I seem to have forgotten that memory.  I guess when you are a kid you aren't too worried about tooth decay and cavities :)

I can't believe Halloween is almost here and even more I can't believe its the end of October!  Can someone please tell me what happened to the month of October?  Christmas is going to be here in a blink, and I'll probably miss Thanksgiving if November disappears on me like October did. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: Funfetti Halloween Cupcakes

"Trick or Treat!  Give me something good to eat.  Give me candy.  Give me cake. Give me something sweet to take".

 

I'll keep it short and sweet for you...I love Funfetti cupcakes!  So when I saw the Halloween Funfetti Cupcakes, I couldn't contain myself in the grocery store. If my son was old enough to understand being embarrased, you can bet thats probably what he would have been and then some.  I must have been so excited that I lost my mommy brain cells because we got home and got to work on making them.  The only problem was that when it was time to frost and decorate the scrumptious and fluffy cupcakes, it was right before naptime.  The problem?  My son was not shy about taking finger fulls of frosting and for every cupcake he sprinkled and put a candy corn on he probably ate twice three times that.  I treid to deter him, but that little fellow is quick and sneaky!  But didn't they turn out beautiful?  My son has some serious cupcake decorating skills....;-)!  Anyway, the moral of the story?  Make some yummy cupcakes, but not before naptime or bedtime!  Don't let the excitement of funfetti Halloween cupcakes cloud your mommy responsibilities!  Oh, how I love the simple pleasures in life! 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: Oat'N'Toffee Grahams

Strength is the capacity to break a chocolate bar into four pieces with your bare hands - and then eat just one of the pieces.  ~Judith Viorst

I don't think there has been a day in my 27 years that I've been able to take just one bite or piece of chocolate. That thing called will-power...it doesn't fit in my vocabulary when it comes to anything sweet.  Every day I attempt to have "just one" M&M to practice that foreign idea of will-power because I know my metabolism is going to come to an abrupt halt any day and as my hips and waist line grow (but the boobies don't :( ) I'm going to be telling myself "I told you so...".  I'm that adult that is using the "KID FRIENDLY" line at the grocery store.  Are you familiar with those yet?  They have no candy or tabloids to make it more 'kid friendly' and to avoid those battles of the kid wanting some sugar... that clearly doesn't need any.  But in all honesty, those lines are probably more for us adults that can't say no to that York Peppermint Candy Bar. Although the York does have 75% less fat ;-). Luckily,  I have the Lil 2 year old running me wild to keep those calories burning. 

I found this Oat' n' Toffee Grahams recipe (submitted by Susan Campanelli and winner of their Prize Tested Recipes)  in Better Homes & Gardens.  But before I go on, let me side track and fill you in on another little secret.  I LOVE magazines, but as soon as we went to one salary the plethora of magazines and daily trips to Starbucks were the first things to go.  However, the DollarTree has saved the day again.  They actually carry various magazines (I've seen Parents, BHG, Redbook, Family Circle and others) for $1!!!  They're typically a month old, but who cares when its $1.   I can actually enjoy a magazine without feeling guilty.  So go treat yourself and grab a magazine! Now, back to the yummy, chocolate-y dessert....

INGREDIENTS

12 whole graham crackers (rectangles)
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cups packed brown sugar
3 TBSP all-purpose flour
2/3 cup butter, melted
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tsp vanilla
1 12oz pkg of semisweet chocolate pieces
1/2 cup smoke-flavored whole almonds, coarsely chopped

DIRECTIONS

1.  Preheat oven to 350 Degrees.  Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with foil, extending foil beyond edges of pan.  Arrange whole graham crackers in a single layer in prepared pan.  (I had to chop off a little of the last ones to make it fit).  In a large bowl combine oats, sugars, and flour.  Stir in melted butter, egg, and vanilla until well combined.  Spoon over graham crackers and spread evenly to edges of pan to cover graham crackers. 

2.  Bake for 20-25 minutes or until oat mixture bubbles and is lightly browned on top.  Remove from oven and sprinkle with chocolate pieces.  Return to oven for 1 minute.  Spread melted chocolate over top to cover.  Evenly sprinkle with almonds.  Cool in pan on a wire rack.  Use foil to lift from pan.  Remove foil.  Cut or break into bars. 

I LOVE the graham cracker, oat, and chocolate combination of this recipe, but I'm still up in the air about the smoked almonds. I think next time I'll try a different nut or some crushed up pretzels.  Its easy and one the kids will love so its definitely worth trying!  Let me know what you think...

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Berry Trifle

Stressed spelled backwards is desserts.  Coincidence?  I think not!  ~Author Unknown

I made this trifle for 4th of July and I thought I would share this delicious and easy dessert.  If you're at all familiar with me or my blog, then you know I have a sweet tooth.  I'm not just talking once in a while I get a craving...it's ALL THE TIME.  So if this pasts my test of "...mmm, ...mmm..., yummy" then you know its worth trying.  I know what you are thinking now.."That's great that its the perfect July 4th recipe, but its July 8th now.  Does she not own a calendar".   Well, I do own a calendar...and I'm just 361 days ahead of planning for next July 4th ;).  Anyhow...now you have an idea for next July 4th and all the other occasions it would be perfect for - -baby shower, Mother's Day, Bridal shower, just because, etc.  The recipe is on marthastewart.com.  Instead of using one big bowl as they show in the recipe, I chose to make individual servings and place them in margarita glasses.  I made it first thing in the morning, but you could make it the night before - put them in the fridge and its ready to go!  Your kids can even help with all the different layering.  They'll love all the colors and they'll even get their serving of fruit:).

So go make a batch, invite some friends over, sit on the deck and enjoy the summer evening.  It can't get much better than that. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Cream Cheese & Strawberry Crepes

"Happy Mother's Day!"

Happy Mother's Day to all those fabulous & groovy moms!  I love today because it is my ONE day of the year where everything is about me.  Oh wait...my husband says I claim my birthday as that day also.  So please forgive me...I get TWO days a year where I get to do anything I want and most importantly choose what I am NOT going to do.  This entails...cooking, cleaning, diaper changing, errands, and whatever else I decide to claim immunity to.  Now, don't get my wrong...my husband is such a huge help around the house on a day to day basis, but we all know where most of the weight falls - on us!

Today ended up being another perfect Mother's Day for me. It started with the little man waking up just a little too early, but letting me lay there for just a few minutes longer. Then the hubby made me these delicious crepes...my absolute favorite (recipe at the end of post). Then the little man went on to say "Appy Otter's Day!" all day long followed by pointing out my zits. Yep....he likes to point out my zits and even tries to pick them. Now what mom does not like being told by their two year old that they have a crater face on the day where they are suppose to be pampered and feel beautiful? I can handle the reality, but I cringe at the thought of being in public with the little man and him pointing at some insecure teenager saying "zit, zit, zit, zit". I would be mortified!

But back to my perfect Mother's Day. While the kitchen was being cleaned after a delicious breakfast, the little man was watching Dirty Dancing with me. It was the part where Baby and Patrick Swayze perform at the other club and attempt the infamous lift. I hear "pease" (aka please) as my son jumps off the couch and anxiously says "pease....dance" as he pulls my arm to lift me up to the middle of the living room floor. My 2 year old wanted to dance with me just like they were on Dirty Dancing! My heart dropped. We twirled, hopped, tried to salsa, and we even did the lift - roles reversed of course! It was so wonderful I can't even explain. And then it was followed by the little man peeing all over me. Hmmm..

The day was filled with yummy treats and lots of laughs and thats all I can ask for. If I was so lucky to have something so delish I thought I better share the recipe for these elegant cream cheese crepes.

INGREDIENTS

4 eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup flour
1 tbsp butter, melted - no substitutes
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp sugar

CREAM CHEESE FILLING
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1 tsp almond or vanilla extract
2 cups sour cream

Beat eggs and milk with a whisk in a bowl. Add flour, salt, and sugar until texture is smooth. Add melted butter and vanilla. Blend well. Place mixture in refrigerator for 30 minutes to help batter thicken.

For each crepe, put two to three tblspns batter into skillet over low to medium heat. Tilt to spread batter evenly, creating a thin crepe. When crepe is light brown, turn and cook second side for about 15 seconds more. Slide crepe onto wax paper or foil to cool. Continue making crepes until all the batter is gone.

To begin the filling, use a food processor or electric mixer to blend the cream cheese, sugar, and extract. Mix in the sour cream and blend well. Fill crepes and serve with a fresh fruit garnish. You can't go wrong with strawberries! Now enjoy!

***Recipe is from Monica Johnson in the May 2008 Albemarle Family Magazine***

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: Chocolate Revel Bars

"Exercise is a dirty word... Every time I hear it, I wash my mouth out with chocolate. "

I'm not one to make promises, but I will promise you this....this recipe for Chocolate Revel Bars will not disappoint!  As the recipient put it..."These are absolutely sinful!".  And you know my favorite part of this treat?  You can only have one at a time!  If you are a cookie addict like me and can never just stop at one, then this is the solution you've been looking for.  They are so fudgy and rich that you truly can only enjoy one serving...unless you add some vanilla ice-cream.  If you add the ice cream you could probably do a serving and a half!

It may look complicated at first, but it really is easy. 

Prep:  30 minutes
Bake:  25 minutes
Oven:  350 degrees

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup butter, softened
2 cups packed brown sugar
1 tsp baking soda
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
3 cups quick cooking rolled oats
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate pieces
1  14-oz can sweetened condensed milk (1 1/4 cups)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
2 tsp vanilla

HOW-TO:

1.  Set aside 2 tablespoons of the butter.  In a large mixing bowl beat the remaining butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds.  Add brown sugar and baking soda.  Beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl.  Beat in eggs and 2 tsp vanilla until combined.  Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer.  Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour.  Stir in the oats.

2.  For filling, in a medium saucepan combine the reserved 2 tblspns butter, chocolate pieces, and sweetened condensed milk.  Cook over low heat until chocolate melts, stirring occasionally.  Remove from heat.  Stir in the nuts and 2 tsps vanilla.

3.  Pres two-thirds (about 3 1/3 cups) of the oat mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 15x10x1 inch baking pan.  Spread filling evenly over the oat mixture.  Dot remaining oat mixture over the filling.

4.  Bake in a 350 degree oven for about 25 minutes or until top is light brown.  Chocolate filling will look moist.  Cook completely.  Cut into bars.

You're dying to make these now aren't you?!  If you are familiar with my blog, you can probably guess where I got this delicious recipe....the Better Homes & Gardens Homemade Cookies book. 

Enjoy! 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: M&M's Valentine Cookies

"Love is in the air"

I didn't have time to try anything new baking this week.  :(  Bummer for my taste buds, but great for my waistline!  So instead I thought I would share an idea with you that I thought was cute.  The X's and O's Cookie found at brightideas.com is perfect if you are looking for a last minute treat for your child's class or loved one.  I also saw a package of cookie cutters at the DollarTree including the X and O and hearts for $1.  You can't go wrong at that price!  Bake some cookies and then have your kids decorate them with sprinkles or M&M's to give away as their Valentine's.  The DollarTree and $1 section at Target also had some cute cellophane Valentine bags that you could put them in and tie with some adorable ribbon. 

I've never been to brightideas.com before this, but I will definitely go back.  There are loads of ideas organized by seasons and holidays so its quick and navigable...you won't get frustrated!  It is run by M&M's so most of them contain ideas with their products, but they are just too cute. Have fun!

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: No Pudge Brownies

"No Pudge...indulgence without guilt"

My husband is trying to lose weight, which is good for all of us because it forces us to eat healthier around here.  But you are talking to (or reading from) the world's BIGGEST sweet tooth.  Plus its only gotten worst since I had my son!  The secret stash is going to run out soon and I am going to be in trouble!  That's where this WONDERFUL invention comes in. Another woman  who loved brownies, but hated fat, came up with the perfect fat free brownie recipe.  All you need is her mix, No Pudge Brownies, and some fat free yogurt.  I personally like the original flavor, but they also have Cappucino, Mint, and Raspberry.  I am not kidding you when I say they are delicious.  They are chewy and rich in flavor.  When I lived in Washington State I was able to find them on my grocery store shelves, but when we moved to Virginia, I wasn't so lucky.  That is until the other day when I noticed my favorite grocery store now carries it.  If you aren't as lucky as me go to their website and they'll point you in the right direction!

Enjoy this treat and share a little with someone special.  (I had the best of intentions, but I just couldn't stop eating them!)

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Bake It: White Chocolate-Rasberry Cookies

"Life is unsure...always eat your dessert first"  - Anon

If you've read this blog before than I'm sure you remember me raving about the Better Homes & Gardens Cookie Cookbook...it is a must have!  I have baked and shared the Chewy Coconut Macaroons and the Chocolate Crinkles on here and today I am recommending you go make the White Chocolate - Raspberry Cookies.  They are absolutley delicious and would be a great Valentine cookie.  In fact, a great Valentine gift for a friend or a loved one who loves to bake is to bake a batch of these cookies and then include the Better Homes & Gardens Cookie Cookbook with it.  You can't go wrong! 

Prep:  30 minutes       Bake:  7-9 minutes   Oven:  375 degrees      Makes:  48

INGREDIENTS:

8 ounces white baking bar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup seedless raspberry jam
3 ounces white baking bar
1/2 teaspoon shortening

1.  Lightly grease a cookie sheet; set aside.  Chop 4 ounces of the white baking bar; set aside.  In a heavy small saucepan, melt the remaining 4 ounces of the white baking bar over low heat while stirring constantly; cool.

2.  In a large mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds.  Add sugar, baking soda, and salt; beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally.  Beat in eggs and the melted white baking bar until combined.  Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer.  Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour.  Stir in the chopped white baking bar.

3.  Drop dough by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart onto the prepared cookie sheet.
4.  Bake in a 375 oven for 7-9 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool on cookie sheet for 1 minute.  Transfer to wire rack; cool completely.

5.  Just before serving, in a small saucepan melt the raspberry jam over low heat.  Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of the jam onto the top of each cookie.  In a heavy, small saucepan combine the 3 ounces white baking bar and shortening.  Melt over low heat, stirring constantly.  Drizzle each cookie with some of the melted mixture.  If necessary, refrigerate about 15 minutes to firm baking bar mixture.

Nutrition Facts per cookie:  104 cal, 4 g total fat (2 g sat fat), 14 mg chol, 66 mg sodium, 16 g carbo, 0 g fiber, 1 g pro.

As I mentioned before, you can't go wrong with these cookies or any of the ones in this cookbook.  Have your kids help make them and package them for your friends, babysitters, teachers, family, etc. 

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!

Gotta Make It: Muffin Gift Box

"Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect.  It means you decide to see beyond the imperfections."

I SOOOOO wish I could take credit for this super cute and clever idea...but I can't!  My mom purchased this at a Holiday Bazaar in Washington State and unfortunately the talented  and creative mind behind this didn't leave too much information for me to give her credit.  All I know is her name is Regan Denke and she goes by Ms. Crafty's Creations.  Like I said...I wish I had more info.  She made a tag that said "You're getting...muffin for Christmas!!" and in the inside of the box she included directions for Blueberry muffins along with the mix and some holiday cupcake liners.  The papers she chose are adorable and she used bells on the bottom of the box as little leg stands...how clever!  She gets an A+!!!!

If you've seen an adorable and clever ideas please share and email us at inspiremecrafts@yahoo.com.

Be inspired, get creative, and have fun!!!!

Gotta Bake It: Lemon and Poppy Seed Melts

"A loving home is a piece of heaven on earth"

This recipe for Lemon and Poppy Seed melts is delicious!  These would be the perfect sweet for a baby or wedding shower, tea party, or hostess gift.  Once again, you can find this recipe in my always dependable Better Homes and Gardens Cookie Cookbook. 

Prep:  20 minutes     Bake:  7-9 minutes          Chill:  4-24 hours     Oven:  375  

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon poppy seed
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon milk
2 teaspoons finely shredded lemon peel
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sifted powdered sugar
Yellow edible glitter (optional)

1.  In a medium mixing bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds.  Add granulated sugar, poppy seed, and baking soda; beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally.  Beat in egg yolk, milk, lemon peel, and vanilla until combined.  Beat in as much flour as you can with the mixer.  Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour.

2.  Divide dough in half.  Shape each half into a 9-inch long roll.  Wrap in plastic wrap or waxed paper.  Chill in the refrigerator for 4-24 hours.  Using a sharp knife, cut dough into 1/2 inch slices.  Place slices 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet.

3.  Bake in a 375 degree oven for 7-9 minutes or until edges are firm and bottoms are light brown.  Place powdered sugar in a plastic bag.  If desired, add edible glitter to powdered sugar.  While still warm, transfer several at a time to the bag.  Gently shake until coated.  Transfer cookies to a wire rack; cool.  When completely cool, gently shake cookies again in powdered sugar. 

4.  Enjoy these delicious treats with your cup of tea!!!!!

Gotta Bake It: Chocolate Crinkles

This quote made me laugh......"RECIPE:  A series of step-by-step instructions for preparing ingredients you forgot to buy, in utensils you don't own, to make a dish the dog wouldn't eat." ~Author Unknown  I'll guarentee everyone will eat these yummy cookies though!!!!

This recipe is easy with no fancy ingredients or utensils needed!   Just note that the mix does have to chill 1-2 hours.  I chose to make this out of my favorite cookie cookbook, Better Homes and Gardens Homemade Cookies.  This came out of the same recipe book as those yummy, unforgettable Chewy Coconut Macaroons!  The Chocolate Crinkles taste like sugar-coated brownies and would be delicious with a bowl of ice cream! 

Prep:  30 minutes               Bake:   8-10 minutes              Chill: 1-2 hours      Makes:  48

Ingredients:       3 eggs
                            1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
                            4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted
                            1/2 cup cooking oil
                           2 teaspoons baking powder
                           2 teaspoons vanilla
                           2 cups all purpose flour
                               Powdered Sugar

1.  In a large mixing bowl beat eggs, granulated sugar, melted chocolate, cooking oil, baking powder, and vanilla with an electric mixer on medium to high speed until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally.  Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer.  Using a wooden spoon, stir in any remaining flour.  Cover, chill in refrigerator for 1-2 hours or until easy to handle.  Shape into 1-in balls. Roll balls in powdered sugar to coat generously.  Place 1 inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.  I lay down a piece of parchment paper to avoid lots of cleanup.

2. Bake in a 375degree oven for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set and tops are crackled.  Transfer cookies to a wire rack; cool completely.  If desired, sprinkle with additional powdered sugar.

Nutrition Facts per cookie:  80 cal, 4g fat (1 sat), 13 mg chol, 19mg sodium, 11g carbo, 1 9 protein

For a person who use to never get her chocolate chip cookies to turn out even when it was the already mixed cookie dough (its true-ask my mom!) this book has converted me into a pretty decent baker!  I received it as a gift from my aunt for Christmas and I'm always asked for the recipes.  If you want to add it to your cookbook collection or use it as a gift for Christmas you can purchase it here.

Gotta Bake It: Halloween Chocolate Lollipops…yummy!

OK - my attempt at a "healthy eating lifestyle (aka Diet) is officially in trouble.  I've always seen the candy making aisle at Michaels, but I have never experimented with it, partly because of my overbearing sweet tooth and lack of self-discipline.  Well... that all changed when I thought it would be a cute gift for my son's friends.  I gave it a whirl  and now that I know that it is super easy, fun to do with kids, and yummy....my weight scale might be in for a bit of a surprise.  However, I will be the biggest hit with all his friends and all their parents will be thanking me immensely (yeah right!) .

All you need is a mold (as little as $1), some chocolate (in the same aisle and comes in seasonal colors), and lollipop sticks.  You literally pop the chocolate in the microwave, throw it in the mold, put the stick in it and put it in the fridge.  Voila!  Of course, you can make it more complex.  For example, my 17-month old took sprinkles and put them in the mold before you put the chocolate in (so complex!!!!!).   He had so much fun!  I then took plastic covers and used some left over ribbon I had to gift them.  I then used some stickers to spell "BOO" on the outside of the plastic wrap.

From here, you really can do numerous things.  You can hand them out as they are, put a name tag around them and use them as a place card, use a decorated pot with styrofoam in it to arrange them as a "lollipop bouquet"  and use it as a centerpiece or a gift, etc.  I am sure you have more ideas as well so please share with us and have fun! 

Gotta Bake It: Chewy Coconut Macaroons

“Good will, like a good name, is got by many actions, and lost by one”  - Lord Jeffrey

This recipe is from the Better Homes and Gardens Homemade Cookies cookbook.  It is a guaranteed crowd pleaser and just way too hard to have only one!   

Prep: 15 minutes   Bake:  20-25 min    Oven:  325    Makes:  30

2 2/3 cups flaked coconut

2/3  cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup all-purpose flour

¼ teaspoon salt

4 egg whites

½ teaspoon almond extract

2 ounces semisweet chocolate (optional)

½ teaspoon shortening (optional)

1. Lighly grease and flour a large cookie sheet; set aside.  In a medium bowl combine coconut, sugar, flour, and salt.  Stir in egg whites and almond extract.
2. Drop egg white mixture by rounded teaspoons 2 inches apart onto prepared cookie sheet.
3. Bake in a 325 oven for 20-25 minutes or until edges are golden brown.  Transfer cookies to a wire rack; cool completely.  If desired, in a heavy small saucepan melt chocolate and shortening; drizzle over cooled cookies.

Nutrition facts per cookie:  54 cal; 2 g total fat (2 g sat. fat), 0mg chol, 26 mg sodium, 8 g carbo, 0 g fiber, 1 g prot

With such yummy cookies to share with friends, family, and maybe even some strangers, we have to package them in something just as memorable!  See the picture below and hopefully it will inspire your creative juices to come up with something just as yummy to share with everybody….and don’t forget to celebrate their perfect name!