tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6601961898945895702024-03-13T08:08:50.929-07:00The Preppy ChefSince getting married I have really grown to love cooking and baking! But the one thing that I may love more is shopping. And anyone who knows me knows that I love all things preppy. I decided to start a blog combining my three favorite things, cooking, baking and shopping. My goal is to make all three fun for everyone. I have found some of my favorite things to use in the kitchen to make your cooking experience that much better! ENJOY and happy cooking and shopping!Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.comBlogger114125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-12320020713135563842011-09-19T15:39:00.001-07:002011-10-03T06:55:28.172-07:00One-Pot Penne with Turkey Meatballs<div>Last month in Runner's World there was an article about chefs that turned into runners and some of their favorite pre-race foods. This one immediately caught my eye. I really like feta cheese and thought it would be a great combo with the sauce and turkey meat. I was right! Delish! And the sauce was really yummy and light. Although I am not running any big races this year I will definitely be making this again, healthy carbs and low fat protein = great meal!</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ygPC_5cS9fo/Tom68O0n1jI/AAAAAAAAAsM/4Pa5NiS165M/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ygPC_5cS9fo/Tom68O0n1jI/AAAAAAAAAsM/4Pa5NiS165M/s400/DSC_0034.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659259950701467186" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>One-Pot Penne with Turkey Meatballs</b><div><i>Pam Anderson from Runner's World Magazine</i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;">Serves 6</span></div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UlAQV3WUOPA/Tom6788qr1I/AAAAAAAAAsE/7Ey6pe1L9CQ/s400/DSC_0033.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659259945903370066" /></div><div><b>Ingredients</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>8 garlic cloves (3 whole, 5 minced)</div><div>1 1/2 pounds ground turkey</div><div>3/4 crumbled feta cheese</div><div>1/2 cup crumbled saltines</div><div>1/2 teaspoon dried oregano</div><div>1 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided</div><div>1 large egg</div><div>1 tablespoon tomato paste</div><div>1/4 cup olive oil</div><div>4 slices prosciutto, chopped</div><div>1 cup red wine</div><div>2 28-ounce cans crushed tomatoes</div><div>1 pound penne pasta</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BrG9tRDlPBU/Tom67xEbpAI/AAAAAAAAAr8/m28RCk4L_MM/s400/DSC_0032.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659259942714713090" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Heat skillet on medium-high (I used my Dutch Oven). Add the whole garlic cloves; toast 5 minutes. Remove, then smash and mince. Break up turkey in a bowl. Mix in feta, saltines, oregano, 3/4 teaspoon salt. Combine the egg, toasted garlic, and tomato paste; mix into the meat until thoroughly combined. Form into 24 meatballs. Heat oil over medium in a large pot. Heat meatballs and brown on two sides; transfer to a plate. Add minced garlic and prosciutto to the pot; sauté until garlic is golden. Add wine; reduce by half. Add tomatoes and enough water (about 1 cup) to thin the sauce. Bring to a simmer; add meatballs and cook (loosely covered) 15 minutes. Add 6 cups of water and remaining 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a simmer. Add penne; cover loosely and cook, stirring frequently, until pasta is tender (15 minutes). Uncover and simmer until sauce thickens. Serve, sprinkling each portion with feta. Serves six.</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FeFX1dU2ToQ/Tom67gSZ1XI/AAAAAAAAAr0/DE41gH8dvfY/s400/DSC_0031.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5659259938209912178" />Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-73496564097820061982011-09-15T11:44:00.001-07:002011-09-16T04:28:44.851-07:00Aileen and Matty P's Engagement Cookies and Cupcakes<div>My sister Aileen is getting married next year and she and her fiancé Matt chose to go with a yellow and green color scheme for their wedding. So instead of just making cookies for their engagement party a few weeks ago I wanted to try something new. I made small cookies with their initials and wedding date, in alternating colors, then placed them on the cupcake with the opposite color. I used buttercream icing on all so the colors would match the cookies well, and I made two different flavor cupcakes; vanilla and chocolate.</div><div><br /></div><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1mDnrRLDvuM/Tm9NmSDCM3I/AAAAAAAAArM/MMg5nMG3Ygg/s400/DSC_0040.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651821377448194930" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 198px; " /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f-3q4WTqJh0/TnJfPqU_kXI/AAAAAAAAArk/AFmdWo6m0S8/s400/DSC_0042.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652685204968411506" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AdFESSDfss8/TnJfP72R7LI/AAAAAAAAArs/xurFlLhXp5k/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AdFESSDfss8/TnJfP72R7LI/AAAAAAAAArs/xurFlLhXp5k/s400/DSC_0044.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652685209671429298" /></a><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ENhGV1ORqbw/TnJfPR8-8dI/AAAAAAAAArc/KZRxr45DykE/s1600/DSC_0039.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ENhGV1ORqbw/TnJfPR8-8dI/AAAAAAAAArc/KZRxr45DykE/s400/DSC_0039.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652685198425256402" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ctfsnVHgquA/TnJfPJLM7OI/AAAAAAAAArU/haUvLgcxMnY/s1600/DSC_0038.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 268px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ctfsnVHgquA/TnJfPJLM7OI/AAAAAAAAArU/haUvLgcxMnY/s400/DSC_0038.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5652685196068973794" /></a></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-8529465429996498722011-09-15T05:15:00.000-07:002011-09-15T05:15:00.123-07:00<div>Baby Madeline decided to come a little early so instead of just having a shower Christina had a sort of welcome party for her. The Mom had registered for bedding with little ladybugs on them in all shades of pinks and purples.</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4r_1uC4w2-g/Tm9JoM1AoeI/AAAAAAAAArE/od2pQ56ByKY/s1600/DSC_0037.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 347px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4r_1uC4w2-g/Tm9JoM1AoeI/AAAAAAAAArE/od2pQ56ByKY/s400/DSC_0037.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651817012360421858" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBbxL7ReqO8/Tm9JnyixTtI/AAAAAAAAAq8/0ZKbRQr_Alk/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 382px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBbxL7ReqO8/Tm9JnyixTtI/AAAAAAAAAq8/0ZKbRQr_Alk/s400/DSC_0033.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651817005304598226" /></a>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-71713695347947227572011-09-14T05:09:00.000-07:002011-09-14T05:09:00.173-07:00Jenn's Baby Shower Airplane Cookies<div>I made these cute cookies to match this soon to be Mom's shower invites. Her friends and family planned an airplane themed shower for her little boy that was on the way!</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 251px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TwmHnwlN0WM/Tm9IxP6_f5I/AAAAAAAAAqs/1oMkoO8ep3A/s320/DSC_0029.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651816068298014610" /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ahmbYiW_8SU/Tm9IxU8GemI/AAAAAAAAAq0/TNyPz_B-6jI/s1600/DSC_0031.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 319px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ahmbYiW_8SU/Tm9IxU8GemI/AAAAAAAAAq0/TNyPz_B-6jI/s320/DSC_0031.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651816069644843618" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-60368638203219012172011-09-13T04:44:00.000-07:002011-09-13T05:05:58.471-07:00Oreo and Fudge Ice Cream Cake<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; font-family:georgia;">For dessert (on Father's Day) I wanted to go simple and make something that I knew everyone was going to love and enjoy. As I was searching for an easy no-bake recipe I came across this one on Kraft.com. It was so yummy and great for a summer dessert (really anytime this was so good). I didn't make this to be low fat but you could swamp the higher fat and calorie ingredients for lower ones. Also I added a some extra Oreos on top for a little decoration, presentation is everything! This is a kid friendly recipe too, there isn't any baking involved and it would </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; font-family:georgia;font-size:medium;">be fun making all the layers. After I made the cake I froze it for a little over 4 hours and it froze perfectly. I was able to make clean slices so everyone could enjoy some. They were decent portions and I even had some leftovers.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><br /></span></span></div><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t1SbCTMuQc0/Tm9A1r3AR4I/AAAAAAAAAqU/oA4r2PjOFrQ/s320/DSC_0018.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651807348423935874" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /><div style="text-align: center; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><b><a href="http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/oreo-fudge-ice-cream-106562.aspx">Oreo and Fudge Ice Cream Cake</a></b></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; font-family:georgia;font-size:medium;"><i>www.KraftRecipes.com</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;">Serves 12</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; font-family:georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></span></div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JKDx1y7iuOI/Tm9A0lHj8xI/AAAAAAAAAp0/fJ5EU_spViQ/s320/DSC_0019.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651807329434465042" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; line-height: 21px; " /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; font-family:georgia;font-size:medium;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; font-family:georgia;font-size:medium;"><b>Ingredients</b></span></div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "><span property="v:amount" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">1/2 cup</span> <span property="v:name" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">hot fudge ice cream topping</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; ">, warmed</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "><span property="v:amount" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">1 tub</span> (8 oz.) <span property="v:name" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">COOL WHIP Whipped Topping</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; ">, thawed, divided</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "><span property="v:amount" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">1 pkg.</span> (3.9 oz.) </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "><span property="v:name" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">JELL-O Chocolate Instant Pudding</span></span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "><span property="v:amount" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">8 </span><span property="v:name" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">OREO Cookies</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; ">, chopped (about 1 cup)</span></span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 21px; "><span property="v:amount" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">12 </span>vanilla <span property="v:name" class="ingredientNodeInner" style="text-align: left; ">ice cream sandwich</span>es</span></span></li></ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;color:#666666;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; "><b>Directions</b></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;">Pour fudge topping into medium bowl. Whisk in 1 cup Cool Whip. Add dry pudding mix; stir 2 minutes. Stir in chopped cookies.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#666666;">Arrange 4 ice cream sandwiches, side-by-side, on 24-inch-long sheet of foil; with half the Cool Whip mixture.</span></div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iB-pzusmeJw/Tm9A0_yCgJI/AAAAAAAAAp8/MhZdHNo0pFI/s320/DSC_0004.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651807336591949970" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /><br /></div><div><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fwi0s_jz1m4/Tm9A1BDgx_I/AAAAAAAAAqE/R_tRglSw3CY/s320/DSC_0005.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651807336933672946" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family:georgia;font-size:medium;">Top with remaining sandwiches. Frost top and sides with remaining Cool Whip. Bring up foil sides; double fold top and ends to loosely seal packet.</span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family:georgia;font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family:georgia;font-size:medium;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dgQu16blTxE/Tm9D-KuU6TI/AAAAAAAAAqc/l3RihaPo_MM/s320/DSC_0007.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651810792682875186" /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family:georgia;font-size:medium;">Freeze for 4 hours or until firm.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-family:georgia;font-size:medium;"><br /></span></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bem-ARISiLE/Tm9D-TFOwUI/AAAAAAAAAqk/jYid0t8qu6o/s320/DSC_0021.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651810794926424386" /><span class="Apple-style-span"><div class="recipeMakeItText" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: left; float: left; clear: both; width: 397px; "><div class="stdContBlock" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: left; float: left; width: 397px; clear: both; "><div class="textarea" style="padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; text-align: left; "><span rel="v:instructions" style="text-align: left; "><span typeof="v:Instructions" style="text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"><p style="text-align: center;color: rgb(102, 102, 102); margin-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;color: rgb(102, 102, 102); margin-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><br /></p><p style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); margin-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><br /></p></span></span></span></div></div></div></span></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-34187423582234490912011-09-11T09:02:00.000-07:002011-09-12T07:32:45.926-07:00Gina's Cheddar and Herb Biscuits<div>I have tried a few different roll and biscuit recipes and this one is hands down the easiest. I am by no means afraid of yeast but I liked how this recipe didn't call for it, I've found that biscuits don't usually but other dinner rolls have. These almost reminded me of Red Lobster's Cheddar Bay Biscuits! Since we were entertaining I was able to make these in advance and hang out with our Dad's for Father's Day. I bake them right before we ate so they were nice and warm when served!</div><div> </div><div><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/patrick-and-gina-neely/ginas-cheddar-and-herb-biscuits-recipe/index.html">Gina's Cheddar and Herb Biscuits</a></div><div><i>The Neelys</i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;">Makes 12 to 15 ( I made 12)</span></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qn72U9H5g6s/TmzbSroa6GI/AAAAAAAAAps/G_tA6KSNKPA/s1600/DSC_0015.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qn72U9H5g6s/TmzbSroa6GI/AAAAAAAAAps/G_tA6KSNKPA/s320/DSC_0015.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651132746439518306" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 23px; font-family:georgia;"><div>Ingredients</div><ul><li>2 cups <a href="http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/flour/index.html" class="crosslink" debug="7 23" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">all-purpose flour</span></a></li><li>2 teaspoons baking powder</li><li>1 teaspoon salt</li><li>1 teaspoon sugar</li><li>1/2 teaspoon <a href="http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/cayenne-pepper/index.html" class="crosslink" debug="113 126" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">cayenne pepper</span></a></li><li>2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives</li><li>1 tablespoon freshly chopped <span class="Apple-style-span" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: none; "><a href="http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/parsley/index.html" class="crosslink" debug="202 215" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: none; ">parsley leaves</a></span></li><li>3/4 cup grated sharp yellow Cheddar</li><li>1 cup buttermilk</li><li>4 tablespoons butter, melted</li></ul><div>Directions</div><div><br /></div></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 15px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><p class="instruction" style="color: rgb(61, 61, 61); outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 9px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 23px; ">Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. </p><p style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 9px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 23px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3d3d3d;">In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cayenne together using a whisk. Add the herbs, cheese and </span><a href="http://www.foodterms.com/encyclopedia/buttermilk/index.html" class="crosslink" debug="195 204" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">buttermilk</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3d3d3d;">. Stir together until dough forms. </span></p><p style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 9px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 23px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#3d3d3d;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VFUhZgDUimU/TmzbSTynk0I/AAAAAAAAApk/uFMPerc82d8/s320/DSC_0009.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651132740039840578" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " />Once dough has formed, using an ice cream scooper, scoop out dough onto baking tray. With a brush, lightly butter tops. Bake for 15 minutes.</span></p></span></span></span><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Sv1Dpz5MYiQ/TmzbSKo7n0I/AAAAAAAAApc/GJYfSppug88/s320/DSC_0010.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651132737583292226" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " />Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-14231144324943324122011-09-08T06:06:00.000-07:002011-09-13T05:08:14.598-07:00Father's Day Menu<div style="text-align: left;">So I know Father's Day was in June but Denis and I have been really busy because we bought our first house (YAY!!! and plenty of pics to come as I decorate) and the busy-ness of summer just got in the way! But we were lucky to be able to host and cook a great dinner for our Dads. It's still a little tight in our small apartment but we make it work! Once we move we will have a dining room, I can not wait, so many new tablescapes capes and dinner parties!</div><div><ul><li>Marinated Skirt Steak</li><li><a href="http://cookingthisandthat.blogspot.com/2009/07/orzo-with-grilled-summer-vegetables-and.html">Orzo with Grilled Vegatables and Pesto Vinagerette (Courtesy of Cooking This and That)</a><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-avluVlvhtaI/TmTSajsPWqI/AAAAAAAAApE/Hlquclgfum8/s320/DSC_0012.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648871186328672930" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></li><li>Deviled Eggs (Made by Bean and Matty P)</li><li><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WsUta9SpM0g/TmTSaSKDv5I/AAAAAAAAAo8/toxGYN6JtD8/s320/DSC_0014.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648871181621903250" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></li><li><a href="http://thepreppychef.blogspot.com/2011/09/ginas-cheddar-and-herb-biscuits.html">Gina's Cheddar and Herb Biscuits (recipe to follow)</a></li><li><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qvl9N3zfnvI/TmTTAVValOI/AAAAAAAAApM/qdPhajLNcgY/s320/DSC_0015.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648871835309872354" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></li><li><a href="http://thepreppychef.blogspot.com/search/label/salad">Grilled Caesar Salad</a></li><li><a href="http://thepreppychef.blogspot.com/2011/09/for-dessert-on-fathers-day-i-wanted-to.html">Oreo and Fudge Ice Cream Cake (recipe to follow)</a></li></ul><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v_1ljt5HbRA/TmTTAxWbucI/AAAAAAAAApU/Kea2luYjovE/s320/DSC_0017.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648871842830334402" /><div style="text-align: center;">Dinner was great but the desert was even better!!</div></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-15990509338758446252011-09-06T05:42:00.000-07:002011-09-06T05:42:00.394-07:002011 Beach Cookies<div>This year for our annual beach vacay to Ocean City, NJ I made some nautical color themed cookies in a variety shapes. I bought new cookie cutters this year so I was also testing out designs and patterns. I'm kind of obsessed with nautical and with stripes (half of my closet is navy blue and white stripes) so that's why I went with those colors this year. Vacation was a blast as always so I'm already looking forward to next summer!</div><div>
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 182px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4PTSBmtp63k/TmTHYe1whCI/AAAAAAAAAoc/I875J4b1CfU/s320/DSC_0023.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648859056038773794" /><div><div style="text-align: center;">The whole group...</div><div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 274px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vHW2fYJV_lg/TmTHYK9OZyI/AAAAAAAAAoU/Vwf9VEMlK9E/s320/DSC_0010.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648859050701383458" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Hawaiian Shirts...</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 218px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TR9RGt4ZRtY/TmTHX-GC_NI/AAAAAAAAAoM/DMY0agu8BrY/s320/DSC_0011.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648859047248723154" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Surfboards....</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 296px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LQHXuyotbRk/TmTHXjvvpKI/AAAAAAAAAoE/kzutmVgPjLQ/s320/DSC_0020.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648859040175858850" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Board Shorts...</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2bP1Il6uL_s/TmTHXRVzY5I/AAAAAAAAAn8/NBC_p04XlU8/s320/DSC_0013.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648859035235214226" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Bathing Suits and Bikinis...</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 259px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SDH_DCNqKOY/TmTHsDBIvPI/AAAAAAAAAos/LhtDjhUT9cU/s320/DSC_0018.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648859392167689458" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Lifesaving rings...</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 306px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TdzkxuTVW4I/TmTHr9_KDEI/AAAAAAAAAok/m_8X2I7t_OE/s320/DSC_0012.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648859390817209410" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Sailboats...</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 194px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WCgcLTVoN5I/TmTHsFKGTUI/AAAAAAAAAo0/xdXkVhx2gag/s320/DSC_0025.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5648859392742149442" /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">and all together again with navy ribbons and baggies!</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-13876414879023302182011-09-04T13:00:00.000-07:002011-09-04T13:00:03.034-07:00Mushroom and Turkey Casserole<div>As I have mentioned in past posts I'm always looking for new casserole or one pot dinners. Denis and I just bought our first house so we have been really busy going back and forth trying to get painting done and other little odds and ends before we move. So meals that I can make ahead of time are really necessary. I found this one on CookingLight.com. It tasted like all the flavors of Thanksgiving mixed together, super delish! I was able to make it in the morning and keep it covered in the fridge all day, without the breadcrumbs. Since I didn't want the breadcrumbs to get soggy I added them right before I put it in the oven. I served it with a little cranberry sauce on the side to finish it off. </div><div>
<br /></div><div>Note: One short cut I took to make this even easier was buying Butterball pre-cooked Turkey. They are usually 2-3 servings so it was the perfect amount of Turkey. They usually have them near the pre-packaged salads. </div><div>
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<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 235px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NiNP1rj1qKY/Tl6ZvM-YVeI/AAAAAAAAAm8/H32kRkQHqMY/s320/DSC_0026.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647120018984949218" /><div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Ingredients<div>
<br /></div><div>1 (6-ounce) package long-grain and wild rice (such as Uncle Ben's )</div><div>1 ounce French bread or other firm white bread, cubed</div><div>1 tablespoon butter, melted and divided</div><div>3/4 cup (3 ounces) created fresh Parmesan cheese</div><div>1/2 cup chopped onion</div><div>2 garlic cloves, minced</div><div>1 (8-ounce) packaged pre-sliced mushrooms</div><div>1 1/2 cups chopped cooked turkey</div><div>1 cup turkey gravy</div><div>1/2 cup 2% low-fat milk</div><div>1/2 cup reduced fat sour cream</div><div>1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley</div><div>3/4 teaspoon minced fresh or 1/4 teaspoon dried sage</div><div>1/2 teaspoon salt</div><div>1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper</div><div>Cooking spray</div><div>3/4 cup cranberry sauce</div><div>
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a7NlKV6C5Ic/Tl6ZvB-dtjI/AAAAAAAAAm0/Zzh2GQWWH7A/s320/DSC_0029.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647120016032511538" /></div><div>Directions</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Preheat oven to 325 degrees</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Prepare rice according to package directions, omitting fat and seasoning packet. Set aside.</div><div>
<br /></div><div>While rice cooks, place bread in a food processor; pulse 15 times or until fine crumbs measure 1/2 cup. Add 1 teaspoon butter to processor; pulse until combined. Add cheese to processor, and pulse until combined.</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><div>Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 teaspoons of butter, onion, garlic, and mushrooms; sauté 7 minutes or until onion is tender. Stir in turkey and next 7 ingredients (through pepper). Add cooked rice; stir.</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><div>Spoon rice mixture into a 1 1/2 quart casserole coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs mixture. </div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 185px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hb_Q1xC0Kmk/Tl6ZvmrwiPI/AAAAAAAAAnE/5JkEUfnM2-4/s320/DSC_0022.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647120025886165234" /><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div></div><div> Bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with cranberry sauce.</div><div>
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 203px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uq7hjTh9Tpc/Tl6Zv0hxl4I/AAAAAAAAAnM/4cetTsBVcjc/s320/DSC_0031.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647120029602387842" /></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-60866299881954010062011-09-02T12:03:00.000-07:002011-09-02T12:03:00.452-07:00Mimi's Baby Shower<div>I made these cute little carriages for a baby shower a few weeks ago. The color theme was pink and brown, so I used brown ribbons to bag the pink, white and brown baby carriages.</div><div>
<br /></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rLrSDoqsTtw/Tl6RhN9IFOI/AAAAAAAAAms/znAJgltm-2g/s1600/DSC_0072.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 269px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rLrSDoqsTtw/Tl6RhN9IFOI/AAAAAAAAAms/znAJgltm-2g/s320/DSC_0072.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647110982636934370" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSamsaYHHVw/Tl6Rg7YziOI/AAAAAAAAAmk/mD0jvD91n1A/s1600/DSC_0074.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSamsaYHHVw/Tl6Rg7YziOI/AAAAAAAAAmk/mD0jvD91n1A/s320/DSC_0074.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647110977652754658" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-svUBC_NV6_E/Tl6Rgo29p6I/AAAAAAAAAmc/5j3tS--Y6xg/s1600/DSC_0078.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-svUBC_NV6_E/Tl6Rgo29p6I/AAAAAAAAAmc/5j3tS--Y6xg/s320/DSC_0078.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647110972678973346" /></a>
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<br />. Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-45578390514185259842011-08-31T11:08:00.000-07:002011-08-31T12:03:36.612-07:00Baked Shrimp Scampi<div><div style="text-align: left;">Shrimp scampi is a great summer meal served with a little linguine and a nice glass of wine! We made this a few weeks ago and it did not disappoint. Denis and I always make Ina's baked shrimp so we thought we would try this recipe for shrimp scampi. It was very easy, which I loved, and full of flavor. The fresh herbs and the lemon zest and juice made all the flavors pop with every bite! </div><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jyTjcrcGdks/Tl56OVr-z1I/AAAAAAAAAl8/rkMmG2YSEdU/s320/IMG_0191.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647085369527553874" /></div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><div><b>Baked Shrimp Scampi</b></div><div>Ina Garten <i>Back to Basics</i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:85%;">Serves 6</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><div>Ingredients</div><div>
<br /></div><div>2 lbs (12 to 15 pound) shrimp in the shell</div><div>3 tablespoons good olive oil</div><div>2 tablespoons dry white wine</div><div>Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper</div><div>12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature</div><div>4 teaspoons minced garlic (4 cloves)</div><div>1/4 cup minced shallots</div><div>3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley</div><div>1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary leaves</div><div>1 teaspoon grated lemon zest</div><div>2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice</div><div>1 extra-large egg yolk</div><div>Lemon wedges, for serving</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Directions</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Preheat the oven to 425 degrees</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Peel, devein, and butterfly the shrimp, leaving the tails on. Place the shrimp in a mixing bowl and toss gently with the olive oil, wine, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Allow to sit at room temperature while you make the butter and garlic mixture.</div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><div>In a small bowl, mash the softened butter with the garlic, shallots, parsley, rosemary, red pepper flakes, lemon zest, lemon juice, egg yolk, panko, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper until combined. </div><div>
<br /></div><div>Starting from the outer edge of a 14-inch oval gratin dish , arrange the shrimp in a single layer cut side down with the tails curling up and down toward the center of the dish. Pour the remaining marinade over the shrimp. Spread the butter mixture evenly over the shrimp. </div><div>
<br /></div><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3z5r9MSMT3g/Tl56NkOQ2jI/AAAAAAAAAls/rT9R-iVlr-0/s320/IMG_0187.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647085356249569842" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /><div>
<br /></div><div>Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until hot and bubbly. If you like the top browned, place under a broiler for 1 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and linguine.</div><div>
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-20053420174212457312011-06-21T11:27:00.000-07:002011-06-21T11:27:00.526-07:00Golf Outing Cookie BouquetThis year for the PJM Golf Outing, I donated a cookie bouquet from The Cookie Closet. The basket was golf themed of course, with golf balls, golf shirts, golf bags, a green with a flag and of course the PJM logo. My cousin Erin was the lucky ticket holder to bring the bouquet home.<div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-axpnNpbBwSw/Tfj71zb-XsI/AAAAAAAAAlI/xP30DhlEoUU/s320/IMG_0090.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618517436903874242" /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vKGyqIIQkl4/Tfj72wgSFgI/AAAAAAAAAlY/pdvY6w1yc0Q/s1600/IMG_0091.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vKGyqIIQkl4/Tfj72wgSFgI/AAAAAAAAAlY/pdvY6w1yc0Q/s320/IMG_0091.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618517453296506370" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TQ2rJl4GKmM/Tfj72WBUPSI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/B5gjwYVHiQE/s1600/IMG_0088.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TQ2rJl4GKmM/Tfj72WBUPSI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/B5gjwYVHiQE/s320/IMG_0088.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618517446187302178" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-4749146021232415382011-06-19T11:00:00.000-07:002011-06-19T11:00:02.800-07:00Sailboat Wedding FavorsLast week I had my largest cookie order yet. I made 125 sailboat cookies for Christina and Rob's wedding on Friday night. Their color scheme was dark blue and white. I put their monogram and wedding date on each of them then tied them with a navy blue ribbons. I even put a little "K" on the flag. Congrats to the new Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kunec! <div><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 295px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UwKeNV-gdFQ/Tfj3KDIg8WI/AAAAAAAAAkg/yBIZFy-XqFY/s320/DSC_0967.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618512287156466018" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tdVeZg5bIlI/Tfj3MT0DtvI/AAAAAAAAAlA/Otmuugh960k/s1600/DSC_0969.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tdVeZg5bIlI/Tfj3MT0DtvI/AAAAAAAAAlA/Otmuugh960k/s320/DSC_0969.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618512325993805554" /></a><div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M5d9Ex8-X8U/Tfj3L_P87OI/AAAAAAAAAk4/rI0op0XZFbU/s1600/DSC_0964.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 294px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M5d9Ex8-X8U/Tfj3L_P87OI/AAAAAAAAAk4/rI0op0XZFbU/s320/DSC_0964.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618512320473656546" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P0-7VkthtdQ/Tfj3K_CciwI/AAAAAAAAAkw/k1cL1Bi8BOE/s1600/DSC_0003.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P0-7VkthtdQ/Tfj3K_CciwI/AAAAAAAAAkw/k1cL1Bi8BOE/s320/DSC_0003.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618512303237139202" /></a><div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lh-yWSqskjc/Tfj3KU5x-rI/AAAAAAAAAko/vIVKbesPxTg/s1600/IMG_0081.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lh-yWSqskjc/Tfj3KU5x-rI/AAAAAAAAAko/vIVKbesPxTg/s320/IMG_0081.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618512291926506162" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-70998475753462942142011-06-17T10:49:00.000-07:002011-06-17T10:49:00.330-07:00More Wild Animal Shower CookiesAbout a month ago I made some more "wild" animal cookies for Baby Otte's baby shower. Caitlin F. requested the giraffes, butterflies, and elephants. These little guys are some of my favorite cookies that I have done in the past year, and there are more to come!<div><br /></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M9mhCEz_kdc/TfjyqdiSEJI/AAAAAAAAAkY/1lOYiyHePYg/s1600/DSC_0779.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 283px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M9mhCEz_kdc/TfjyqdiSEJI/AAAAAAAAAkY/1lOYiyHePYg/s320/DSC_0779.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618507346441539730" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Giraffes...</div><div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zGCFk_r1HAc/TfjypkGuRlI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/JkRJWlvPAMk/s1600/DSC_0780.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 287px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zGCFk_r1HAc/TfjypkGuRlI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/JkRJWlvPAMk/s320/DSC_0780.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618507331025126994" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Butterflies...</div><div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D4iYYZe_sfw/TfjypTpcTkI/AAAAAAAAAkI/jFXPBQmFwCU/s1600/DSC_0784.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 294px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D4iYYZe_sfw/TfjypTpcTkI/AAAAAAAAAkI/jFXPBQmFwCU/s320/DSC_0784.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618507326607347266" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">and Elephants!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-44838351457569074702011-06-15T10:21:00.000-07:002011-06-15T10:49:15.956-07:00Ladybug Themed 1'sKaylee's 1st birthday was a Ladybug themed fest. So her Mom, Megan, asked me to do some red and black polka dot 1's to match the theme.<div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 256px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rOR5wgCnCPw/TfjuiDrvgqI/AAAAAAAAAjw/8ewBArrjzhY/s320/DSC_0789.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618502804016431778" /><br /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 254px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dPRAz2phnUo/TfjuidH5dNI/AAAAAAAAAj4/8DOm0BGmx0g/s320/DSC_0785.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618502810845410514" /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RqtF3GCrHBk/Tfjui3qhLtI/AAAAAAAAAkA/ayKupxvS2PU/s1600/DSC_0801.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 219px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RqtF3GCrHBk/Tfjui3qhLtI/AAAAAAAAAkA/ayKupxvS2PU/s320/DSC_0801.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618502817969942226" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-12064161377194166002011-06-06T08:39:00.000-07:002011-06-06T08:39:00.350-07:00Cinnamon-Streusel Coffee Cake - 100th Post!!!!<div style="text-align: left;">So who doesn't like coffee cake or a breakfast pastry now and then??? Well when I found this recipe I couldn't wait to make it, luckily I found it right before Nicole's pot-luck brunch. I have to tell you Martha Stewart really knows what she is talking about, this cake was amazing and a great recipe for my 100th post!!!! It will be a real crowd pleaser any where you serve it. I followed the recipe almost exactly, I just used extra butter when greasing the cake pan. In the end I was really glad I did because it wasn't entirely easy to get out of the pan. Besides that there wasn't anything difficult about this recipe and was relatively quick too. If you served it as a desert I can only imagine what it would taste like with a little scoop of vanilla ice cream.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hOh3aRdZjWw/Tee3nOt5xtI/AAAAAAAAAjE/YDNKKRaLLIc/s320/IMG_0530.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613657345134020306" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><b><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/337805/cinnamon-streusel-coffee-cake">Cinnamon-Streusel Coffee Cake</a></b></div><div><i>Martha Stewart Living</i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Serves 12<br /></span><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 264px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1EC1mMyuuKk/Tee3m9jCCYI/AAAAAAAAAi8/JPcUCLBkkpA/s320/IMG_0534.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613657340525021570" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><b>Ingredients</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b>For the streusel topping and center:</b></div><div>1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour</div><div>1 cup packed light-brown sugar</div><div>1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon</div><div>Coarse salt</div><div>1 1/2 sticks cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces</div><div>1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped toasted pecans</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b>For the cake:</b></div><div>1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for pan</div><div>2 cups all-purpose flour</div><div>1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder</div><div>1/2 teaspoon baking soda</div><div>Coarse salt</div><div>1 cup granulated sugar</div><div>2 large eggs</div><div>1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract</div><div>1 cup sour cream</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b>For the glaze:</b></div><div>1 cup confectioners' sugar</div><div>2 tablespoons whole milk</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b>Directions:</b></div><div>1. Make the streusel topping: Mix together flour, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon salt. Cut in butter using a pastry cutter or rub in with your fingers until small to medium clumps form. Mix in 1/2 cups pecans. Refrigerate until ready to use.</div><div><br /></div><div>2. Make the streusel center: Mix together remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 cup pecans.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Make the cake: Butter a 9-inch tube pan with removable bottom. Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt into a bowl.</div><div><br /></div><div>4. Beat butter and granulated sugar with a mixer on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in eggs, 1 at a time, then vanilla. Beat in flour mixture in 3 additions, alternating with sour cream, beginning and ending with flour. Continue to beat until well combined.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>5. Spoon half the batter into pan. Sprinkle streusel center mixture evenly over batter. Top with remaining batter, and spread evenly using an offset spatula. Sprinkle streusel topping mixture evenly over batter.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>6. Bake until cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 55 minutes. Transfer pan to a wire rack, and let cool completely. Remove cake from pan, and transfer to parchment.</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OZCYz9QbZG8/Tee3nudwTMI/AAAAAAAAAjM/OHBcgE9xv8E/s320/IMG_0514.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613657353656224962" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ih20SZWfzRs/Tee7KN35XSI/AAAAAAAAAjk/8Hq5PIofCas/s320/IMG_0518.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613661244737805602" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>7. Make the glaze: Mix together confectioners' sugar and milk. Drizzle over cake, and let drip down sides. Let set for 5 minutes before serving.</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9EL-NR8x_X4/Tee3oBO98mI/AAAAAAAAAjc/C3KzxFO8j6c/s320/IMG_0519.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613657358694478434" /></div><div><br /></div></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-48466557019074727162011-06-04T07:51:00.000-07:002011-06-04T07:51:00.633-07:00Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto<div style="text-align: left;">I really like risotto... ha, who am I kidding its one of my favs! But the problem with risotto is the constant adding and stirring and the time it takes. As I was looking for quick recipes I came across this one and it is cooked completely in the microwave! I was a little suspect at first but it tasted just as creamy and tasty as making risotto on the stove. I did however need to microwave for an extra 10 minutes to make sure all the liquid was absorbed. I though this recipe turned out to be a very yummy lo-cal option to enjoy risotto. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fdkn5RxRW_s/TeesUDZc-gI/AAAAAAAAAi0/0hdZgrrZfJA/s320/IMG_0511.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613644921050036738" /></div><div><br /></div><b>Creamy Butternut Squash Risotto</b><div><i>Oxmoor House</i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Serves 4</span></div><div>Ingredients</div><div><br /></div><div>1 1/4 cups uncooked Arborio rice or other medium-grain rice</div><div>2 teaspoons olive oil</div><div>2 1/2 cups fat-free, less sodium chicken broth</div><div>1 cup water</div><div>1 (12-ounce) package frozen pureed butternut squash </div><div>1/4 teaspoon salt</div><div>1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper</div><div>6 tablespoons grated fresh Parmesan cheese</div><div>Grated fresh Parmesan cheese (optional)</div><div>Thyme sprigs (optional)</div><div><br /></div><div>Directions</div><div><br /></div><div>1. Combine rice and oil in a 1 1/2-quart microwave-safe dish, stirring to coat. Microwave, uncovered, at HIGH 3 minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div>2. Add broth and 1 cup water to rice; microwave, uncovered, at HIGH 9 minutes. Stir well; microwave, uncovered, at HIGH 6 minutes. Remove from microwave; let stand 5 minutes or until all liquid in absorbed (I ended up doing a total of 15 minutes instead of 5).</div><div><br /></div><div>3 While risotto stands, heat squash in microwave at HIGH 2 minutes or until warm. Add squash, salt, pepper, and cheese to risotto. Stir well to combine. Garnish with additional cheese and thyme sprigs, if desired.</div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-89904299577077881712011-06-02T06:29:00.000-07:002011-06-02T07:50:13.689-07:00Individual French Toast Stratas<div>I have been dying to try some brunch recipes, that I have been collecting, and haven't had a chance yet. So a few weeks ago when my friend Nicole hosted a pot-luck brunch I took the opportunity to try two of them (2nd recipe to follow shortly). I love french toast casseroles but sometimes they take a long time to bake and usually need to sit over night. This one was really easy, and only needed to soak for a short time. The recipe suggests to sit while the oven pre-heats but I thought it would taste even better after a couple hours. I basically followed the recipe however, I did end up making a few changes and additions from the original. I changed the bread to French bread to add a little texture and crunch from the crust instead of country white as it called for, I also added a little brown sugar to the egg mixture and some extra butter without melting it to coat the bread. And to enhance the top of the Stratas I used cinnamon and sugar instead of just white sugar. The top was perfect and crispy!</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-09eCcE_1Av4/TeeWfXfbjAI/AAAAAAAAAiM/04QzaclYWVs/s320/IMG_0527.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613620926166567938" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Individual French Toast Stratas</b><div>Rachael Ray <i>Everyday</i> Magazine</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">Makes 12 Individual French Toasts</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><br /></span></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 210px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QsiR5gY2tQ0/TeeWgvd5z-I/AAAAAAAAAik/CbDPCAtixWA/s320/IMG_0526.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613620949782482914" /></div><div>Ingredients</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>6 Eggs</div><div>1 1/2 cups half-and-half</div><div>6 tablespoons maple syrup (plus extra for topping, optional)</div><div>1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla</div><div>1 tsp cinnamon</div><div>1 tablespoon brown sugar</div><div>large pinch salt</div><div>4 cups cubed (1-inch) French Bread</div><div>4 tablespoons room temp butter</div><div>1 tablespoon sugar</div><div>1/2 tablespoon cinnamon</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Directions</div><div><br /></div><div>Whisk eggs, half-and-half, syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar and salt</div><div><br /></div><div>Toss bread with butter; divide among 12 muffin cups.</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WMCT15TQErY/TeeXPCvNuXI/AAAAAAAAAis/S1sKMH6cXQw/s320/IMG_0513.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613621745229347186" /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div>Pour egg mixture over bread; let sit. (I let it sit for about 2 hours).</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 196px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TDSAXsT49GE/TeeWgP66YvI/AAAAAAAAAic/Iw9vl74bxhg/s320/IMG_0512.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613620941314220786" /><div><br /></div><div>Sprinkle bread mixture with sugar before putting it into the oven.</div><div><br /></div><div>Bake for 20 minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-is-9P3CId1M/TeeWf8kcIFI/AAAAAAAAAiU/iXgn26PrSdw/s320/IMG_0521.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613620936119689298" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Let cool on rack. Serve with more maple syrup, optional.</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 280px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lxm03jtM8Rs/TeeWfIB3ggI/AAAAAAAAAiE/UkP3-M__upw/s320/IMG_0535.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613620922016039426" />Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-47133349842132051532011-05-17T05:11:00.000-07:002011-05-17T05:14:54.986-07:00Batman Cookies<div>A few weeks ago my friend Leanne's oldest son turned 5! I can't believe he's so grown up already! We went to his Batman themed bash and the Birthday Boy had a blast. These are the cookies I made for the event.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IhDuG1oIusQ/TcPl5iVYgYI/AAAAAAAAAh8/kAExImDW6UQ/s1600/IMG_0507.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 316px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IhDuG1oIusQ/TcPl5iVYgYI/AAAAAAAAAh8/kAExImDW6UQ/s320/IMG_0507.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603575138010825090" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tQDpI1iajlM/TcPl5V1RtnI/AAAAAAAAAh0/RG6yxsxpSKo/s1600/IMG_0506.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tQDpI1iajlM/TcPl5V1RtnI/AAAAAAAAAh0/RG6yxsxpSKo/s320/IMG_0506.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603575134654936690" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OkX7xM_rvFI/TcPl5De9omI/AAAAAAAAAhs/8AcdxiPeZM0/s1600/IMG_0502.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 318px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OkX7xM_rvFI/TcPl5De9omI/AAAAAAAAAhs/8AcdxiPeZM0/s320/IMG_0502.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603575129729507938" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XtyuHT05R_0/TcPl46jac8I/AAAAAAAAAhk/sNav_DCW8nw/s1600/IMG_0500.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 317px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XtyuHT05R_0/TcPl46jac8I/AAAAAAAAAhk/sNav_DCW8nw/s320/IMG_0500.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5603575127332254658" /></a>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-38284508294467066342011-05-04T07:08:00.000-07:002011-05-04T07:08:00.148-07:00Cookies and Cream Cheesecakes<div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;">I gave up desserts and sweets for Lent (seriously challenging for someone who LOVES baking). And once it was over I was looking for something really yummy to make up for 40 days of no sweets! Then my cousin Megan, #14, sent me a link to the website Stumbleupon.com with this recipe for <a href="http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/5jkLVo/gracessweetlife.com/2010/07/oreo-cookies-and-cream-cheesecakes/">Cookies and Cream Cheesecakes </a>. It was perfect timing, especially since cheesecake is my fav dessert. I made them for a relaxing night at our friends' the Bewalders and they were unbelievably yummy. Plus side to these delish treats very, very easy to make. Next time I plan on using double stuff Oreos to make them that much better. Even Denis couldn't resist these little snacks, he told me it was one of the best desserts he'd ever had, I just knew Megan found an amazing recipe (thanks Meg). </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span></div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gq7K3GhZRow/Tb_zZ5TOcCI/AAAAAAAAAhM/xcKOFE9yQVk/s1600/IMG_0474.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 192px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gq7K3GhZRow/Tb_zZ5TOcCI/AAAAAAAAAhM/xcKOFE9yQVk/s320/IMG_0474.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602464087675924514" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Cookies and Cream Cheesecakes</b></div><div><i>Martha Stewart's Cupcakes: 175 Inspired Ideas for Everyone's Favorite Treat</i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Makes 30 Cheesecakes</span></div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 183px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vgdr_O1Jyoc/Tb_zZlfSIAI/AAAAAAAAAhE/xOK1GSa6ahQ/s320/IMG_0470.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602464082357788674" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Ingredients</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>42 Oreos, 30 left whole and 12 coarsely chopped (this is a regular size package of Oreos)</div><div>2 pounds cream cheese, softened</div><div>1 cup granulated sugar</div><div>1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div><div>4 large eggs, lightly beaten</div><div>1 cup sour cream</div><div>pinch of salt</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Directions</div><div><br /></div><div>1. Preheat oven to 275 degrees. Line standard muffin pans with liners. Place 1 whole cookie in the bottom of each liner.</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xkoKcUzoZLg/Tb_zZOTBbHI/AAAAAAAAAg0/cZ-_ngKyUMQ/s320/IMG_0464.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602464076132346994" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Beat cream cheese at medium speed using an electric mixer. Gradually add sugar, beating until combined. Beat in vanilla.</div><div><br /></div><div>3. Drizzle in eggs, a bit at a time. Beat in sour cream and salt. Stir in chopped cookies. </div><div><br /></div><div>4. Divide batter among pans. </div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VeZ1QQPmW_o/Tb_zZdA6vbI/AAAAAAAAAg8/E2_UErg4j2U/s320/IMG_0468.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602464080082943410" /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>5. Bake for about 22 minutes or until filling is set. (I ended up baking them for a total of 30 minutes, but your oven may be different so I recommend starting with 22 minutes and checking them after that.)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-81458230947385015752011-04-27T08:00:00.000-07:002011-04-27T08:00:01.652-07:00Easter Cookies<div>This year I wanted to add some new designs to my Easter cookies. I bought a carrot shaped cookie cutter and a new egg shape, and as a new design I added a little chick coming out of a broken egg. We celebrated at my parents' house so I put everyone's names on the cookies, we had a great time!</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 296px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mY0-oaMA-vY/TbdjadJa3zI/AAAAAAAAAf8/ONs__DV2F80/s320/IMG_0485.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600053967810387762" /><div><div style="text-align: center;">The whole group...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 232px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0OjO7uX45a4/Tbdja2uA4nI/AAAAAAAAAgE/tSlG6GO8dPw/s320/IMG_0475.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600053974674760306" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Bunnies...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 270px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D2yHXdF8H-w/TbdjyAbylcI/AAAAAAAAAgk/qgK6EshuURc/s320/IMG_0483.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600054372419671490" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Eggs...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 227px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PuaunKAXyvo/TbdjcHE7dwI/AAAAAAAAAgU/udOaB3798wU/s320/IMG_0481.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600053996245710594" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Carrots...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 314px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5cNeQYclHw4/Tbdjbo-nuiI/AAAAAAAAAgM/gneoxkHItw4/s320/IMG_0478.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600053988166187554" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">and Chicks!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tsC720z1UpQ/TbdjcSGJP-I/AAAAAAAAAgc/jmV8Kctvz08/s320/IMG_0492.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600053999203598306" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Almost ready to go....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-24ezD2YhZ5o/Tbdjyfer7bI/AAAAAAAAAgs/AtWtbbGJbHo/s1600/IMG_0494.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 183px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-24ezD2YhZ5o/Tbdjyfer7bI/AAAAAAAAAgs/AtWtbbGJbHo/s320/IMG_0494.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600054380753317298" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">All ready for Easter dinner!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-44763654580214960422011-04-17T16:07:00.000-07:002011-04-17T17:12:59.180-07:00Fusilli with Spinach, Ricotta and Sausage<div style="text-align: left;">We love pasta so I'm always looking for new recipes. I got this one from March's issue of <i>Everyday</i> magazine. Rachael Ray actually used Kale which neither Denis nor I care for so I changed it up a little and used spinach instead. It was simple yet tasty, with a little kick! Sometimes after swimming practice at night I don't feel like cooking so this was a fast and yummy meal to throw together fast.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l6drbIjrr5A/Tat_iCf1aJI/AAAAAAAAAfc/oY5qvyMH5Ww/s320/IMG_0442.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596707184700647570" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b>Fusilli with Spinach, Ricotta and Sausage</b><div>Adapted from Rachael Ray</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Serves 4, generously</span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-shwsHDsplLk/Tat_irWpGgI/AAAAAAAAAfs/l-fs_PR7p2c/s320/IMG_0443.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596707195667945986" /></div><div>Ingredients</div><div><br /></div><div>1 pound spinach</div><div>2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil</div><div>Salt and pepper</div><div>1 pound sweet or hot Italian bulk sausage</div><div>1 pound short or long fusilli pasta or curly spaghetti (look for an imported Italian pasta)</div><div>3 to 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped</div><div>1 small Italian red cherry chile pepper or 1 fresno chile pepper, seeded and finely chopped</div><div>About a 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves, chopped</div><div>A couple of small sprigs rosemary, finely chopped</div><div>About 1 1/2 cups fresh sheep's -or cow's milk ricotta cheese</div><div>Freshly grated nutmeg</div><div>Shaved pecorino-romano cheese</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Directions</div><div><br /></div><div>Bring a pot of water to a boil, salt it, add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and return the pasta to the pot, reserving 1 cup of the pasta cooking water.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once the pasta water is boiling, in a large skillet, drizzle 2 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, crumbling the meat, and cook until browned. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a plate. Add the garlic and chile pepper to the skillet and stir for a couple minutes. Stir in the thyme and rosemary.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Whisk the reserved pasta cooking water into the garlic oil. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Add mixture to pasta. Then add the sausage, ricotta and some nutmeg; toss vigorously to coat the pasta. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg to taste. Serve in shallow bowls and top with the pecorino-romano.</div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BBXbzh3zT2I/Tat_iatQ2RI/AAAAAAAAAfk/Tl1mkmZSL24/s320/IMG_0441.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596707191199422738" /></div><div><br /></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-5983664513641294492011-04-02T13:17:00.000-07:002011-04-02T13:17:00.138-07:00Turkey Mini-Meatloaves<div style="text-align: left;">So meatloaf wasn't something I grew up eating a lot of, and honestly it kind of freaks me out. I mean its a "loaf of meat", how is that normal? But I have been trying to be a little more adventurous, and try new things lately. I know meatloaf really isn't something crazy, but I am known to be a little picky about certain foods. I am getting better and I am starting to enjoy new things more and more. So I found this recipe and knowing meatloaf is one of Denis's favorite meals, I decided to make it for us for dinner. It was so good!! It was moist and really flavorful and the best part - low fat. Delicious and low cal, what can be better than that!? I served it with a side of roasted carrots and potatoes tossed with olive oil, salt, pepper, chives and parsley. Very simple meal with tons of flavor. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vd7IGD_TsUs/TZTxM0f8uuI/AAAAAAAAAfM/4avTQsTJPAE/s320/IMG_0446.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590358240026999522" /><div><div style="text-align: center;">Finished product</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Turkey Mini-Meatloaves</b></div><div>Cook Yourself Thin</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">Serves 4</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br /></span></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H9B6unsBqQU/TZTxMLtvQTI/AAAAAAAAAe8/U3j-1clat9E/s320/IMG_0445.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590358229078982962" /><div style="text-align: center;">Meatloaves pre-glaze and cooking. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b>Ingredients</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>For the meatloaf:</b></div><div><b></b>1 slice whole wheat bread</div><div>1/2 cup skim milk</div><div>1 tablespoon olive oil</div><div>1 onion, diced</div><div>5-ounce bag baby spinach leaves </div><div>1 1/4 pounds ground turkey</div><div>2 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan</div><div>1 large egg</div><div>1/2 teaspoon salt</div><div>1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper</div><div>1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b>For the glaze:</b></div><div>3 tablespoons ketchup</div><div>2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce</div><div>1 teaspoon hot sauce</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b>Directions</b></div><div><br /></div><div>1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. </div><div><br /></div><div>2. Grind the bread in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Transfer to a large bowl, and pour milk over crumbs.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet, preferably nonstick, over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 5 minutes. Add spinach, and stir until just wilted, about 30 seconds. Transfer to the bowl with soaked crumbs. Add the turkey, cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Combine the mixture with your hands until well mixed; it will be quite wet.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>4. Pack 1 cup of mixture into a 1-cup dry measuring cup. Invert the cup onto a rimmed baking sheet, gently shaking the cup to release the mixture. Gently pat the mound to smooth its shape. Repeat with remaining mixture. Bake mini meatloaves until cooked through and golden, about 40 minutes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>5. While the meatloaves are cooking make the glaze: in a small bowl combine the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Brush over meatloaves.</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUP38XkUqyU/TZTxNBGCbKI/AAAAAAAAAfU/PlqNduOEbCw/s320/IMG_0448.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590358243407981730" /><div style="text-align: center;">Roasted carrots and potatoes.</div></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-45682032829038255452011-04-01T08:40:00.000-07:002011-04-01T08:40:01.065-07:00Bailey's Irish Cream Cupcakes with Bailey's Irish Cream Buttercream Frosting<div style="text-align: left;">A few weeks ago my friend Alison had a little get together for St Patrick's Day. She asked me to bring a dessert and I wanted to bring one that was Irish themed. While I was Googling recipes I came across a great blog called <a href="http://cupcakerehab.com/">Cupcake Rehab</a>. The Blogger not only has a ton of delish cupcake recipes but has other great recipes too. There are a few I plan on trying in the near future. She has a really quirky personality and it comes out in all of her entries and recipes. You should totally check it out.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div>While I was baking the cupcakes the smell in my kitchen was outstanding! They smelled amazingly sweet, I wanted to dive right into the cupcakes. The recipe was very easy, as well as the icing. I definitely had to add additional Bailey's to make the icing a little smoother to ice though, but that didn't really effect the flavor. Then I added green shamrocks and white sprinkles to jazz them up. Yum!</div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SiXV4dxJy_g/TZTIu1DDvfI/AAAAAAAAAek/CnxFTgGCCJc/s320/IMG_0429.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590313744313073138" /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><b><a href="http://cupcakerehab.com/2010/03/luck-o-the-irish-baileys-cupcakes/">Bailey's Irish Cream Cupcakes</a></b><div><a href="http://cupcakerehab.com/2010/03/luck-o-the-irish-baileys-cupcakes/"></a>Cupcake Rehab</div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">Serves 24</span></span></b></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; font-size:small;"><br /></span></b><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rwl4OL_5JS4/TZTIvC3pCtI/AAAAAAAAAes/nQt1DYKigbk/s320/IMG_0426.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590313748023282386" /></div><div>Ingredients</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>2/3 cup unsalted butter, at room temp.</div><div>2 cups granulated sugar</div><div>2 large eggs, room temp</div><div>2 teaspoons vanilla extract</div><div>1 1/3 cups Bailey's Irish Cream</div><div>2/3 cup water</div><div>2 tablespoons milk</div><div>4 cups all-purpose flour</div><div>2 teaspoons baking powder</div><div>2 teaspoons salt</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Directions</div><div><br /></div><div>1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Insert 24 liners into a cupcake pan.</div><div><br /></div><div>2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with a stand mixer. Add eggs and vanilla and beat well.</div><div><br /></div><div>3. In a separate bowl, combine the liqueur, water and milk. Mix well.</div><div><br /></div><div>4. In a third bowl, thoroughly combine flour, baking powder, and salt.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>5. Add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the liqueur mixture. Beat on medium speed for approximately 2 minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div>6. Fill cupcake liners 3/4 full and bake for about 25 minutes or until tops spring back when lightly touched. (NOTE: The cupcake liners can be filled a little over the suggested 3/4 full, they don't fluff up as much as expected.)</div><div><br /></div><div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7c5gg9tnfo8/TZTIvRaHS0I/AAAAAAAAAe0/dzzIxf36sf8/s320/IMG_0432.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590313751925967682" /></div><div>Bailey's Irish Cream Buttercream Frosting</div><div><br /></div><div>Ingredients</div><div><br /></div><div>1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature</div><div>3 cups powdered sugar</div><div>2 tablespoons (maybe more) Bailey's Irish Cream</div><div><br /></div><div>Directions</div><div><br /></div><div>1. Cream the butter on high speed for approximately 3 minutes.</div><div><br /></div><div>2. Add the bailey's and mix thoroughly. Slowly add the powdered sugar until well blended.</div><div><br /></div><div>3. If necessary, add more Bailey's to thin or more sugar to thicken it to desired thickness.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-660196189894589570.post-21004962541600624532011-03-30T13:22:00.000-07:002011-03-30T13:22:00.344-07:0030th Birthday Centerpieces<div style="text-align: left;">A few weeks ago I co-hosted a Surprise 30th Birthday for my friend Annie. Instead of doing traditional centerpieces I decided to make cookie centerpieces. The invitations and all the tablecloths, plates, napkins, etc were pink and green so naturally I stuck with that theme. I put them in vases and then wrapped the vases with pink tissue paper and hot pink ribbon. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y3oupvesoX4/TZIhLrmem1I/AAAAAAAAAeE/-TBWCjrqrsA/s320/IMG_0436.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589566572086598482" /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kY5V9vXAsQA/TZIhLar6yCI/AAAAAAAAAd8/R_ij5NQsowo/s320/IMG_0434.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589566567546013730" /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><u><br /></u></span></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BVejLK0whbE/TZIhMa4QrrI/AAAAAAAAAeU/rNMU7t42XBs/s1600/IMG_0437.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><u><br /></u></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div>Courtney Milde Walkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16481744054037965677noreply@blogger.com0