Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday. Today's offerings include Tarragon Chicken and Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse. Enjoy!
APPLE BREAKFAST WEDGES
This comes from Betty Crocker, and begins, “Slice into a warm apple breakfast or brunch treat. All you need is 15 minutes of prep, and it's in the oven.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Servings: 6
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 medium cooking apples, peeled, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
1/3 cup water
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1/2 cup Original Bisquick™ mix
2 eggs
Maple-flavored syrup, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 400°F. Generously grease 9-inch glass pie plate with shortening or cooking spray. In medium bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Add apples; toss to coat. Set aside.
In 2-quart saucepan, heat water and butter to boiling. Reduce heat to low. Add Bisquick mix; stir vigorously until mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat. Beat in eggs, one at a time; continue beating until smooth.
Spread batter in bottom of pie plate. Arrange apples on top to within 1 inch of edge of pie plate.
Bake about 23 minutes or until puffed and edges are golden brown. Serve immediately. Drizzle with syrup.
Expert Tips
Use slightly tart apples with a crisp texture, such as Haralson apples. If you like a sweeter apple, choose Fuji, Prairie Spy or Gala.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar, and serve with warm maple syrup.
CLASSIC MEATLOAF
This recipe is from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Get ready to meat your maker. When you're looking for a quick and easy dinner, feast your eyes on this simple solution. Prep for this classic comfort food takes just a matter of minutes. It's sure to be a family favorite.”
For 6 people; Ready in 1 1/2 hour.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
16 ounces ground beef
1 ounce can vegetable soup
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/3 tablespoon milk
1 1/2 cups oatmeal
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Form into a loaf and place in baking pan. Bake for 1 hour.
DARK CHOCOLATE AVOCADO MOUSSE
This is from Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LD on VeryWellFit. Kaleigh wrote, “No need to deprive yourself if you're following a blood pressure-friendly diet. Whether you need something sweet after dinner or you are asked to bring a dessert to a party, this dark chocolate avocado mousse is the perfect healthy yet decadent dessert.
“It uses avocados instead of heavy cream to give it a rich, creamy texture. Avocados are naturally high in potassium and magnesium, which help to lower your blood pressure. Avocados are also loaded with tons of vitamins, including folate, vitamin K, and vitamin E. They provide healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber to help keep you full and satisfied with just a small portion. Cocoa powder also contains fiber and blood pressure lowering flavonols.
“This mousse couldn’t be easier to make. Just blend everything in a blender until smooth and chill for just a little bit. Nobody will ever know that it’s healthier or that it is made with avocados!”
Total Time: 10 minutes; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 0 minutes; Servings: 4 (1/2 cup each)
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 small ripe avocados
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
1/2 cup milk of choice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Preparation
Cut avocados in half and remove seeds. Scoop from shells into a blender or food processor.
Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe container and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Add melted chocolate and remaining ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Divide into 4 serving dishes and refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
For dairy-free and vegan, use dairy-free milk of choice and dairy-free chocolate chips.
For vegan, use maple syrup or agave instead of honey, too.
Cooking and Serving Tips
Add more milk by the tablespoon, if needed, until you reach the desired consistency.
TARRAGON CHICKEN
This comes from Nigella Lawson in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Nigella wrote, “I hesitate even to call this a recipe. Don't think of that sauce-heavy French traditional dish, but rather a quick way of infusing poultry with a liquorish herbal hit of summery freshness. You can marinate it in the fridge all day in advance, but if planning ahead is not one of your strengths, then know that even half an hour at room temperature does its bit.”
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 1 hour.
This recipe was featured in “How About Lunch, Dear? Bring Everyone”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/6225-tarragon-chicken.
Ingredients
1 3- to 4-pound chicken
3/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon
Juice and grated zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup olive oil
Malden salt or other flaky sea salt
Preparation
Butterfly chicken by placing it breast-side down and, using kitchen shears, cutting along both sides of backbone and through small rib bones. Discard backbone, and place chicken in a large plastic bag with zipper. Add 1/2 cup tarragon, the lemon juice and zest, and olive oil. Expel as much air as possible from bag, and make sure marinade coats chicken. Refrigerate for at least 1/2 hour and up to 24 hours.
Heat oven to 450 degrees. Place chicken in a roasting pan, spread flat, breast side up. Roast until skin is crisp and golden, 35 to 45 minutes.
Sprinkle with salt to taste, and cut into 8 serving pieces. Transfer to a platter, and garnish with remaining tarragon. Serve, if desired, with salad and roasted potatoes.
RAINBOW VEGETABLE SOUP
This comes from VeryWellFit, and begins, “We've all heard nutritionists say, "eat the rainbow," and this soup is a great way to do just that. In fact, that's what makes rainbow soup unique—while it is generally challenging to eat all of the colors of fruits and vegetables at one meal, rainbow soup makes it possible. Rainbow vegetable soup has vegetables from all the color groups, so it is filled with lots of antioxidants and other nutrients for your family.
“Despite the unusual seasoning combination of sweet paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and hot sauce, this vegetable soup is one that people tend to love. You can put leftover turkey or chicken in it, but it can stand on its own without meat. It is also good with beans or chickpeas if your diet allows. If you have any fresh herbs around, feel free to throw them in as well.”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Servings: 9 (1 cup each).
You can view this online at https://www.verywellfit.com/rainbow-soup-2242419.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 large stalks celery (chopped)
4 cloves garlic (pressed)
1 medium red bell pepper (chopped)
1 cup carrot (chopped or chopped pumpkin if available)
1 heaping tablespoon sweet paprika
3 teaspoons turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 (15-ounce) can tomatoes (chopped)
5 cups vegetable stock
10 ounces green beans (frozen or fresh)
1 large leaf chard (cut into thin strips, or spinach or kale)
Directions
In a large soup pot, simmer oil, onion, and celery. Cook over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes to develop more sweetness in the onion.
Add garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Turn up the heat to medium and add the peppers and carrots. Cook another 1 to 2 minutes and add the spices. Stir and cook until fragrant—another minute or so.
Add tomatoes and stock, and simmer for 15 minutes. Add beans and chard and simmer for another 5 minutes or until the beans are cooked. (If using cooked cubed meat such as chicken or turkey, add at this time.) Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
As the main course this soup is perfect, but be sure that you add other items for adults to eat so that they won't be underfed. A nice starter salad with a vinaigrette dressing is appetizing before the soup. You might also try adding meat to the soup as an option for those who are not vegetarian. Or grill up some chicken, fish, beef or sausage kabobs and place them on separate plates for those who are interested in making the meal a little more hearty.
POUND CAKE
This comes from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Who says you can't have your cake and eat it, too? With this low-sodium pound cake, you'll enjoy a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.” Makes 12 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 cup butter, unsalted and softened
5 eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups flour
Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar and butter in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy (2 to 3 minutes). Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed (2 to 3 minutes). Add sour cream, milk and vanilla. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Reduce speed to low. Add flour; beat just until moistened. Spoon batter into greased and floured 12-cup bundt or 10-inch tube pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes; remove from pan. Cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
Showing posts with label Pound Cake. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pound Cake. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 25, 2020
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
Double-Post Tuesday
Besides being Taco Tuesday, it's also Double-Post Tuesday. Today's offerings include Tarragon Chicken and Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse. Enjoy!
APPLE BREAKFAST WEDGES
This comes from Betty Crocker, and begins, “Slice into a warm apple breakfast or brunch treat. All you need is 15 minutes of prep, and it's in the oven.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Servings: 6
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 medium cooking apples, peeled, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
1/3 cup water
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1/2 cup Original Bisquick™ mix
2 eggs
Maple-flavored syrup, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 400°F. Generously grease 9-inch glass pie plate with shortening or cooking spray. In medium bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Add apples; toss to coat. Set aside.
In 2-quart saucepan, heat water and butter to boiling. Reduce heat to low. Add Bisquick mix; stir vigorously until mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat. Beat in eggs, one at a time; continue beating until smooth.
Spread batter in bottom of pie plate. Arrange apples on top to within 1 inch of edge of pie plate.
Bake about 23 minutes or until puffed and edges are golden brown. Serve immediately. Drizzle with syrup.
Expert Tips
Use slightly tart apples with a crisp texture, such as Haralson apples. If you like a sweeter apple, choose Fuji, Prairie Spy or Gala.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar, and serve with warm maple syrup.
CLASSIC MEATLOAF
This recipe is from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Get ready to meat your maker. When you're looking for a quick and easy dinner, feast your eyes on this simple solution. Prep for this classic comfort food takes just a matter of minutes. It's sure to be a family favorite.”
For 6 people; Ready in 1 1/2 hour.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
16 ounce(s) ground beef
1 ounce(s) can vegetable soup
2 tablespoon(s) ketchup
1 teaspoon(s) poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon(s) Italian seasoning
1/3 tablespoon(s) milk
1 1/2 cup(s) oatmeal
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Form into a loaf and place in baking pan. Bake for 1 hour.
DARK CHOCOLATE AVOCADO MOUSSE
This is from Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LD on VeryWellFit. Kaleigh wrote, “No need to deprive yourself if you're following a blood pressure-friendly diet. Whether you need something sweet after dinner or you are asked to bring a dessert to a party, this dark chocolate avocado mousse is the perfect healthy yet decadent dessert.
“It uses avocados instead of heavy cream to give it a rich, creamy texture. Avocados are naturally high in potassium and magnesium, which help to lower your blood pressure. Avocados are also loaded with tons of vitamins, including folate, vitamin K, and vitamin E. They provide healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber to help keep you full and satisfied with just a small portion. Cocoa powder also contains fiber and blood pressure lowering flavonols.
“This mousse couldn’t be easier to make. Just blend everything in a blender until smooth and chill for just a little bit. Nobody will ever know that it’s healthier or that it is made with avocados!”
Total Time: 10 minutes; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 0 minutes; Servings: 4 (1/2 cup each)
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 small ripe avocados
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
1/2 cup milk of choice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Preparation
Cut avocados in half and remove seeds. Scoop from shells into a blender or food processor.
Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe container and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Add melted chocolate and remaining ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Divide into 4 serving dishes and refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
For dairy-free and vegan, use dairy-free milk of choice and dairy-free chocolate chips.
For vegan, use maple syrup or agave instead of honey, too.
Cooking and Serving Tips
Add more milk by the tablespoon, if needed, until you reach the desired consistency.
TARRAGON CHICKEN
This comes from Nigella Lawson in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Nigella wrote, “I hesitate even to call this a recipe. Don't think of that sauce-heavy French traditional dish, but rather a quick way of infusing poultry with a liquorish herbal hit of summery freshness. You can marinate it in the fridge all day in advance, but if planning ahead is not one of your strengths, then know that even half an hour at room temperature does its bit.”
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 1 hour.
This recipe was featured in “How About Lunch, Dear? Bring Everyone”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/6225-tarragon-chicken.
Ingredients
1 3- to 4-pound chicken
3/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon
Juice and grated zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup olive oil
Malden salt or other flaky sea salt
Preparation
Butterfly chicken by placing it breast-side down and, using kitchen shears, cutting along both sides of backbone and through small rib bones. Discard backbone, and place chicken in a large plastic bag with zipper. Add 1/2 cup tarragon, the lemon juice and zest, and olive oil. Expel as much air as possible from bag, and make sure marinade coats chicken. Refrigerate for at least 1/2 hour and up to 24 hours.
Heat oven to 450 degrees. Place chicken in a roasting pan, spread flat, breast side up. Roast until skin is crisp and golden, 35 to 45 minutes.
Sprinkle with salt to taste, and cut into 8 serving pieces. Transfer to a platter, and garnish with remaining tarragon. Serve, if desired, with salad and roasted potatoes.
RAINBOW VEGETABLE SOUP
This comes from VeryWellFit, and begins, “We've all heard nutritionists say, "eat the rainbow," and this soup is a great way to do just that. In fact, that's what makes rainbow soup unique—while it is generally challenging to eat all of the colors of fruits and vegetables at one meal, rainbow soup makes it possible. Rainbow vegetable soup has vegetables from all the color groups, so it is filled with lots of antioxidants and other nutrients for your family.
“Despite the unusual seasoning combination of sweet paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and hot sauce, this vegetable soup is one that people tend to love. You can put leftover turkey or chicken in it, but it can stand on its own without meat. It is also good with beans or chickpeas if your diet allows. If you have any fresh herbs around, feel free to throw them in as well.”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Servings: 9 (1 cup each).
You can view this online at https://www.verywellfit.com/rainbow-soup-2242419.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 large stalks celery (chopped)
4 cloves garlic (pressed)
1 medium red bell pepper (chopped)
1 cup carrot (chopped or chopped pumpkin if available)
1 heaping tablespoon sweet paprika
3 teaspoons turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 (15-ounce) can tomatoes (chopped)
5 cups vegetable stock
10 ounces green beans (frozen or fresh)
1 large leaf chard (cut into thin strips, or spinach or kale)
Directions
In a large soup pot, simmer oil, onion, and celery. Cook over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes to develop more sweetness in the onion.
Add garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Turn up the heat to medium and add the peppers and carrots. Cook another 1 to 2 minutes and add the spices. Stir and cook until fragrant—another minute or so.
Add tomatoes and stock, and simmer for 15 minutes. Add beans and chard and simmer for another 5 minutes or until the beans are cooked. (If using cooked cubed meat such as chicken or turkey, add at this time.) Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
As the main course this soup is perfect, but be sure that you add other items for adults to eat so that they won't be underfed. A nice starter salad with a vinaigrette dressing is appetizing before the soup. You might also try adding meat to the soup as an option for those who are not vegetarian. Or grill up some chicken, fish, beef or sausage kabobs and place them on separate plates for those who are interested in making the meal a little more hearty.
POUND CAKE
This comes from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Who says you can't have your cake and eat it, too? With this low-sodium pound cake, you'll enjoy a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.” Makes 12 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 cup butter, unsalted and softened
5 eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups flour
Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar and butter in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy (2 to 3 minutes). Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed (2 to 3 minutes). Add sour cream, milk and vanilla. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Reduce speed to low. Add flour; beat just until moistened. Spoon batter into greased and floured 12-cup bundt or 10-inch tube pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes; remove from pan. Cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
APPLE BREAKFAST WEDGES
This comes from Betty Crocker, and begins, “Slice into a warm apple breakfast or brunch treat. All you need is 15 minutes of prep, and it's in the oven.”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Servings: 6
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 medium cooking apples, peeled, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
1/3 cup water
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1/2 cup Original Bisquick™ mix
2 eggs
Maple-flavored syrup, if desired
Directions
Heat oven to 400°F. Generously grease 9-inch glass pie plate with shortening or cooking spray. In medium bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Add apples; toss to coat. Set aside.
In 2-quart saucepan, heat water and butter to boiling. Reduce heat to low. Add Bisquick mix; stir vigorously until mixture forms a ball. Remove from heat. Beat in eggs, one at a time; continue beating until smooth.
Spread batter in bottom of pie plate. Arrange apples on top to within 1 inch of edge of pie plate.
Bake about 23 minutes or until puffed and edges are golden brown. Serve immediately. Drizzle with syrup.
Expert Tips
Use slightly tart apples with a crisp texture, such as Haralson apples. If you like a sweeter apple, choose Fuji, Prairie Spy or Gala.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar, and serve with warm maple syrup.
CLASSIC MEATLOAF
This recipe is from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Get ready to meat your maker. When you're looking for a quick and easy dinner, feast your eyes on this simple solution. Prep for this classic comfort food takes just a matter of minutes. It's sure to be a family favorite.”
For 6 people; Ready in 1 1/2 hour.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
16 ounce(s) ground beef
1 ounce(s) can vegetable soup
2 tablespoon(s) ketchup
1 teaspoon(s) poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon(s) Italian seasoning
1/3 tablespoon(s) milk
1 1/2 cup(s) oatmeal
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Form into a loaf and place in baking pan. Bake for 1 hour.
DARK CHOCOLATE AVOCADO MOUSSE
This is from Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LD on VeryWellFit. Kaleigh wrote, “No need to deprive yourself if you're following a blood pressure-friendly diet. Whether you need something sweet after dinner or you are asked to bring a dessert to a party, this dark chocolate avocado mousse is the perfect healthy yet decadent dessert.
“It uses avocados instead of heavy cream to give it a rich, creamy texture. Avocados are naturally high in potassium and magnesium, which help to lower your blood pressure. Avocados are also loaded with tons of vitamins, including folate, vitamin K, and vitamin E. They provide healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber to help keep you full and satisfied with just a small portion. Cocoa powder also contains fiber and blood pressure lowering flavonols.
“This mousse couldn’t be easier to make. Just blend everything in a blender until smooth and chill for just a little bit. Nobody will ever know that it’s healthier or that it is made with avocados!”
Total Time: 10 minutes; Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 0 minutes; Servings: 4 (1/2 cup each)
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
2 small ripe avocados
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
1/2 cup milk of choice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Preparation
Cut avocados in half and remove seeds. Scoop from shells into a blender or food processor.
Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe container and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
Add melted chocolate and remaining ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Divide into 4 serving dishes and refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
For dairy-free and vegan, use dairy-free milk of choice and dairy-free chocolate chips.
For vegan, use maple syrup or agave instead of honey, too.
Cooking and Serving Tips
Add more milk by the tablespoon, if needed, until you reach the desired consistency.
TARRAGON CHICKEN
This comes from Nigella Lawson in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Nigella wrote, “I hesitate even to call this a recipe. Don't think of that sauce-heavy French traditional dish, but rather a quick way of infusing poultry with a liquorish herbal hit of summery freshness. You can marinate it in the fridge all day in advance, but if planning ahead is not one of your strengths, then know that even half an hour at room temperature does its bit.”
Yield: 4 servings; Time: 1 hour.
This recipe was featured in “How About Lunch, Dear? Bring Everyone”, and can be viewed online at https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/6225-tarragon-chicken.
Ingredients
1 3- to 4-pound chicken
3/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon
Juice and grated zest of 1 lemon
1/2 cup olive oil
Malden salt or other flaky sea salt
Preparation
Butterfly chicken by placing it breast-side down and, using kitchen shears, cutting along both sides of backbone and through small rib bones. Discard backbone, and place chicken in a large plastic bag with zipper. Add 1/2 cup tarragon, the lemon juice and zest, and olive oil. Expel as much air as possible from bag, and make sure marinade coats chicken. Refrigerate for at least 1/2 hour and up to 24 hours.
Heat oven to 450 degrees. Place chicken in a roasting pan, spread flat, breast side up. Roast until skin is crisp and golden, 35 to 45 minutes.
Sprinkle with salt to taste, and cut into 8 serving pieces. Transfer to a platter, and garnish with remaining tarragon. Serve, if desired, with salad and roasted potatoes.
RAINBOW VEGETABLE SOUP
This comes from VeryWellFit, and begins, “We've all heard nutritionists say, "eat the rainbow," and this soup is a great way to do just that. In fact, that's what makes rainbow soup unique—while it is generally challenging to eat all of the colors of fruits and vegetables at one meal, rainbow soup makes it possible. Rainbow vegetable soup has vegetables from all the color groups, so it is filled with lots of antioxidants and other nutrients for your family.
“Despite the unusual seasoning combination of sweet paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and hot sauce, this vegetable soup is one that people tend to love. You can put leftover turkey or chicken in it, but it can stand on its own without meat. It is also good with beans or chickpeas if your diet allows. If you have any fresh herbs around, feel free to throw them in as well.”
Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 35 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Servings: 9 (1 cup each).
You can view this online at https://www.verywellfit.com/rainbow-soup-2242419.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 large stalks celery (chopped)
4 cloves garlic (pressed)
1 medium red bell pepper (chopped)
1 cup carrot (chopped or chopped pumpkin if available)
1 heaping tablespoon sweet paprika
3 teaspoons turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 (15-ounce) can tomatoes (chopped)
5 cups vegetable stock
10 ounces green beans (frozen or fresh)
1 large leaf chard (cut into thin strips, or spinach or kale)
Directions
In a large soup pot, simmer oil, onion, and celery. Cook over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes to develop more sweetness in the onion.
Add garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Turn up the heat to medium and add the peppers and carrots. Cook another 1 to 2 minutes and add the spices. Stir and cook until fragrant—another minute or so.
Add tomatoes and stock, and simmer for 15 minutes. Add beans and chard and simmer for another 5 minutes or until the beans are cooked. (If using cooked cubed meat such as chicken or turkey, add at this time.) Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
As the main course this soup is perfect, but be sure that you add other items for adults to eat so that they won't be underfed. A nice starter salad with a vinaigrette dressing is appetizing before the soup. You might also try adding meat to the soup as an option for those who are not vegetarian. Or grill up some chicken, fish, beef or sausage kabobs and place them on separate plates for those who are interested in making the meal a little more hearty.
POUND CAKE
This comes from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Who says you can't have your cake and eat it, too? With this low-sodium pound cake, you'll enjoy a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.” Makes 12 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 cup butter, unsalted and softened
5 eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups flour
Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar and butter in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy (2 to 3 minutes). Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed (2 to 3 minutes). Add sour cream, milk and vanilla. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Reduce speed to low. Add flour; beat just until moistened. Spoon batter into greased and floured 12-cup bundt or 10-inch tube pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes; remove from pan. Cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Cake!
Is there any yummier or, occasionally, more elegant dessert than cake? Maybe not. Here are six yummy cake recipes to try, including Naked Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake and Nutella Mug Cake. Enjoy!
CELEBRATION CAKE
This comes from Seattle’s own Macrina Bakery. I’m on their mailing list (they send out the yummiest recipes!), and I highly recommend signing up.
If I’m ever out in Seattle, I fully intend to pay a visit to any of their bakeries…
According to Macrina’s Leslie Mackie, “This is one of my favorite birthday or special occasion cakes. The natural sweet flavor of toasted coconut layered with fresh summer berries and lemon cream makes for a light yet decadent summer treat.”
To view this online, click here.
INGREDIENTS: COCONUT CAKE
1 cup shredded, unsweetened coconut 1 cup coconut milk
5 egg whites
1 teaspoon pure almond extract
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2-1/4 cups cake flour
1-3/4 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt
12 tablespoons (1-1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temp.
2 pints fresh raspberries (for assembly)
LEMON CREAM
3 egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup lemon juice
3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup whipping cream
WHITE CHOCOLATE FROSTING
12 ounces white chocolate chips
8 ounces unsalted butter, room temp. 1 pound cream cheese, room temp.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
DIRECTIONS: COCONUT CAKE
Preheat oven to 325°F. Spread coconut evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and toast for 3 minutes. Toss with tongs to toast evenly and return to the oven for 3 minutes. Remove from oven and transfer to a bowl. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the coconut milk, egg whites, and almond and vanilla extracts. Mix with a whisk and set aside.
Sift flour, sugar, baking powder and salt into the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the toasted coconut and mix on low speed using the paddle attachment for 30 seconds. Cut butter into small cubes and add to the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until it is coarse and crumbly with no visible pieces of butter, approximately 4 minutes. Add half the wet ingredients and mix on medium speed for 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula and add the remaining wet ingredients, mixing for another 30 seconds. Scrape the bowl again to ensure it is well incorporated.
Prepare a 12" x 18" baking sheet pan with 1/2" rim by brushing it with oil and lining the bottom with parchment paper. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake on the center rack for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown. When cool, run a knife around the edge of the cake and invert onto another sheet pan. Gently remove parchment paper and then cut three 7" circles of cake. You will have excess cake scraps, which make great trifle with fresh berries and whipped cream. Cover cake circles until ready to assemble layer cake.
LEMON CREAM
Combine egg yolks, sugar and lemon juice in a medium stainless steel bowl and mix well with a whisk. Place the bowl on top of a saucepan filled with 2" of simmering water. Whisking constantly, slowly cook for about 10 minutes. You don’t want to cook this too fast or the egg will scramble. As it thickens you will see ribbons form in the custard. Add the butter and continue whisking until it is dissolved. Remove bowl from the saucepan and whisk to cool slightly. Cover with plastic wrap, allowing it to rest on the surface of the lemon curd.
Cool in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Whip the heavy cream to medium stiff peaks and fold into the chilled lemon curd. Set aside in the refrigerator.
WHITE CHOCOLATE FROSTING
Place the white chocolate into a medium stainless steel bowl. Place the bowl over a saucepan filled with 2" of simmering water. Stir with a rubber spatula until it is completely melted. Remove bowl from the saucepan and cool to room temperature.
Place the butter and cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat until the mixture is completely smooth, approximately 3-6 minutes. Add the lemon juice and then the melted white chocolate. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated. If it is too soft (this can happen if your room temperature is warm) chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before using.
ASSEMBLY
Begin layering the cake using a single cut layer at the base. Top with a 1/2" thick layer of lemon cream and a single layer of raspberries. Keep a 1" border at the edge of cake so when the additional layers are added it doesn’t push the filling out. Repeat with the second layer and top with the final layer. Place the cake into the refrigerator or freezer to chill for 20 minutes.
To add a crumb coat (a base coat of frosting that allows for a perfect finish), spread the sides and top with a thin layer of frosting. Chill for 30 minutes.
To add the finishing coat of frosting, start by covering and smoothing the sides before completing the top. You can add some color by taking a small portion of the white chocolate frosting and mixing a little bit of food coloring into it. Then smooth onto the sides to create color blushes. Don’t be afraid to be creative!
Chill this cake for 1-1/2 hours before serving so that it is completely set. Decorate with fresh garden flowers and raspberries.
APPLE SPICE CAKE
This recipe comes from Publix.
Servings: 8; Total Time: 4 hours, 15 minutes; Active Time: 15 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, melted
3 eggs, beaten
1 (21-oz) can apple pie filling
1 (15.25-oz) box yellow cake mix
1 tablespoon apple pie spice
Cooking spray
2 tablespoons flour
1/4 cup caramel sauce
1/2 cup whipped topping
Directions
Melt butter. Whisk eggs and apple pie filling into butter until blended and apples break into small pieces. Whisk cake mix and pie spice in large bowl until blended, then gently stir in wet ingredients until combined.
Coat bowl of slow cooker with spray, then sprinkle flour on bottom and sides until coated. Pour batter into slow cooker; cover and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or until center is cooked through.
Let cake stand 10 minutes. Turn cake out onto a platter; drizzle with caramel and serve warm with whipped topping.
PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE CAKE
This recipe comes from Publix.
Servings: 8; Total Time: about 3 hours; Active Time: 10 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
Ingredients
Butter-flavor cooking spray
1 (15.25-oz) box devil's food cake mix
2 cups water, divided
2 large eggs
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1 (4-oz) semisweet chocolate bar (or morsels)
1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
8 tablespoons whipped topping
Directions
Coat 4-quart slow cooker with spray. Place cake mix, 1 cup water, and eggs in large bowl; beat with hand mixer until blended. Add peanut butter; mix well and pour mixture into slow cooker.
Microwave remaining 1 cup water on HIGH for 2 minutes or until steaming. Break chocolate into pieces, if needed, then place in water and stir until melted; let stand 1 minute to cool. Pour chocolate over batter in slow cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW for 2–2 1/2 hours (or HIGH for 1 1/2–1 3/4 hours) or until toothpick inserted near center comes out with fudgy crumbs. Chop peanuts. Serve cake straight from slow cooker topped with whipped topping and peanuts.
NUTELLA MUG CAKE
This easy yumminess is from TheSpruceEats, and begins, “This gloriously simple mug cake recipe puts you just 60 seconds away from a super indulgent dessert for Nutella lovers looking to satisfy a craving in a hurry. With ingredients you probably already have on hand, this is a perfect sweet treat for one.“
Total Time: 7 minutes; Prep: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 2 minutes; Yield: 1 Serving.
To view this yumminess online, click here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup whole milk (can also use 2 percent)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup Nutella
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Add milk, flour, and baking powder in a 12-ounce microwave-safe mug. Whisk until smooth.
Add the Nutella and stir until the batter has no lumps.
Microwave on high for about 45 to 60 seconds.
Continue microwaving slowly in 15-second intervals. Microwaves vary but what you’re looking for is to see the cake look set and dry, the edges will pull away from the side of the mug and the cake will feel springy and fluffy to the touch. It will probably take an additional 30 to 60 seconds in total.
For best results, serve immediately.
POUND CAKE
This comes from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Who says you can't have your cake and eat it, too? With this low-sodium pound cake, you'll enjoy a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.” Makes 12 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 cup butter, unsalted and softened
5 eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups flour
Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar and butter in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy (2 to 3 minutes). Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed (2 to 3 minutes). Add sour cream, milk and vanilla. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Reduce speed to low. Add flour; beat just until moistened. Spoon batter into greased and floured 12-cup bundt or 10-inch tube pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes; remove from pan. Cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
NAKED CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER LAYER CAKE
This comes from The Baker Chick (otherwise known as Audra). Here’s part of what Audra wrote: “My favorite basic chocolate cake is layered with rich chocolate ganache and fluffy peanut butter frosting. I chose to make a naked cake because I’m so obsessed with the look of them, but many different options would work for this. The cake could be made in a bundt pan with the frosting slathered on and the ganache poured on top. Or, you could frost it more traditionally, frosting it all perfectly smooth and then once again pouring the ganache on top. Whatever you decide, if you are a chocolate/peanut butter lover I know you’ll adore this cake.” Yield: 10-12 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder*
2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 and 1/4 cups sugar
2 and 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons buttermilk
4 1/2 tablespoons safflower oil
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
12 tablespoons of butter, softened (1 1/2 sticks)
1 cup creamy peanut butter
3 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the Ganache:
4.5 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
peanut butter cups to garnish (optional)
Instructions
For the Cake:
Preheat oven to 350F.
Grease and flour your cake pans, lining with a circle of parchment paper. (This can be 6, 8 or 9 inch pans, I would use at least 3 pans if doing 6 inch though.)
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt.
Stir in the water, buttermilk, oil, vanilla and eggs, continue to stir until batter is smooth.
Divide batter amongst the pans and bake for 25-35 mins, or until a cake tester inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean. Set aside to cool.
For the Ganache:
Place the chocolate in a heat-proof bowl. Bring the heavy cream to a simmer on the stove-top, and then pour over the chopped chocolate. Whisk until smooth. Allow to cool and thicken before using. (I pop mine in the fridge or freezer.
For the Frosting:
Cream together the butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar until well combined. Fold in the whipped cream until frosting is smooth and fluffy.
To assemble:
Using a serrated knife, level each cake layer, slicing off the "domed" top to make it even. Place the bottom later on a piece of parchment paper on a cake turntable (if you have one.)
Spread a layer of ganache over the first layer of cake, sticking it into the fridge or freezer if needed to firm it up. (I stuck the whole cake into the fridge between each frosting layer.)
Follow with a layer of frosting, then another layer of cake, more ganache, more frosting etc. Add some frosting to the outside of the cake, smoothing with a spatula. Top with chopped peanut butter cups.
Notes:
* Base cake recipe adapted from Martha Stewart
CELEBRATION CAKE
This comes from Seattle’s own Macrina Bakery. I’m on their mailing list (they send out the yummiest recipes!), and I highly recommend signing up.
If I’m ever out in Seattle, I fully intend to pay a visit to any of their bakeries…
According to Macrina’s Leslie Mackie, “This is one of my favorite birthday or special occasion cakes. The natural sweet flavor of toasted coconut layered with fresh summer berries and lemon cream makes for a light yet decadent summer treat.”
To view this online, click here.
INGREDIENTS: COCONUT CAKE
1 cup shredded, unsweetened coconut 1 cup coconut milk
5 egg whites
1 teaspoon pure almond extract
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2-1/4 cups cake flour
1-3/4 cups granulated sugar
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt
12 tablespoons (1-1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temp.
2 pints fresh raspberries (for assembly)
LEMON CREAM
3 egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup lemon juice
3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup whipping cream
WHITE CHOCOLATE FROSTING
12 ounces white chocolate chips
8 ounces unsalted butter, room temp. 1 pound cream cheese, room temp.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
DIRECTIONS: COCONUT CAKE
Preheat oven to 325°F. Spread coconut evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and toast for 3 minutes. Toss with tongs to toast evenly and return to the oven for 3 minutes. Remove from oven and transfer to a bowl. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine the coconut milk, egg whites, and almond and vanilla extracts. Mix with a whisk and set aside.
Sift flour, sugar, baking powder and salt into the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the toasted coconut and mix on low speed using the paddle attachment for 30 seconds. Cut butter into small cubes and add to the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until it is coarse and crumbly with no visible pieces of butter, approximately 4 minutes. Add half the wet ingredients and mix on medium speed for 30 seconds. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula and add the remaining wet ingredients, mixing for another 30 seconds. Scrape the bowl again to ensure it is well incorporated.
Prepare a 12" x 18" baking sheet pan with 1/2" rim by brushing it with oil and lining the bottom with parchment paper. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake on the center rack for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown. When cool, run a knife around the edge of the cake and invert onto another sheet pan. Gently remove parchment paper and then cut three 7" circles of cake. You will have excess cake scraps, which make great trifle with fresh berries and whipped cream. Cover cake circles until ready to assemble layer cake.
LEMON CREAM
Combine egg yolks, sugar and lemon juice in a medium stainless steel bowl and mix well with a whisk. Place the bowl on top of a saucepan filled with 2" of simmering water. Whisking constantly, slowly cook for about 10 minutes. You don’t want to cook this too fast or the egg will scramble. As it thickens you will see ribbons form in the custard. Add the butter and continue whisking until it is dissolved. Remove bowl from the saucepan and whisk to cool slightly. Cover with plastic wrap, allowing it to rest on the surface of the lemon curd.
Cool in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Whip the heavy cream to medium stiff peaks and fold into the chilled lemon curd. Set aside in the refrigerator.
WHITE CHOCOLATE FROSTING
Place the white chocolate into a medium stainless steel bowl. Place the bowl over a saucepan filled with 2" of simmering water. Stir with a rubber spatula until it is completely melted. Remove bowl from the saucepan and cool to room temperature.
Place the butter and cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Beat until the mixture is completely smooth, approximately 3-6 minutes. Add the lemon juice and then the melted white chocolate. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated. If it is too soft (this can happen if your room temperature is warm) chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before using.
ASSEMBLY
Begin layering the cake using a single cut layer at the base. Top with a 1/2" thick layer of lemon cream and a single layer of raspberries. Keep a 1" border at the edge of cake so when the additional layers are added it doesn’t push the filling out. Repeat with the second layer and top with the final layer. Place the cake into the refrigerator or freezer to chill for 20 minutes.
To add a crumb coat (a base coat of frosting that allows for a perfect finish), spread the sides and top with a thin layer of frosting. Chill for 30 minutes.
To add the finishing coat of frosting, start by covering and smoothing the sides before completing the top. You can add some color by taking a small portion of the white chocolate frosting and mixing a little bit of food coloring into it. Then smooth onto the sides to create color blushes. Don’t be afraid to be creative!
Chill this cake for 1-1/2 hours before serving so that it is completely set. Decorate with fresh garden flowers and raspberries.
APPLE SPICE CAKE
This recipe comes from Publix.
Servings: 8; Total Time: 4 hours, 15 minutes; Active Time: 15 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, melted
3 eggs, beaten
1 (21-oz) can apple pie filling
1 (15.25-oz) box yellow cake mix
1 tablespoon apple pie spice
Cooking spray
2 tablespoons flour
1/4 cup caramel sauce
1/2 cup whipped topping
Directions
Melt butter. Whisk eggs and apple pie filling into butter until blended and apples break into small pieces. Whisk cake mix and pie spice in large bowl until blended, then gently stir in wet ingredients until combined.
Coat bowl of slow cooker with spray, then sprinkle flour on bottom and sides until coated. Pour batter into slow cooker; cover and cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or until center is cooked through.
Let cake stand 10 minutes. Turn cake out onto a platter; drizzle with caramel and serve warm with whipped topping.
PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE CAKE
This recipe comes from Publix.
Servings: 8; Total Time: about 3 hours; Active Time: 10 minutes
To view this recipe online, click here.
Ingredients
Butter-flavor cooking spray
1 (15.25-oz) box devil's food cake mix
2 cups water, divided
2 large eggs
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1 (4-oz) semisweet chocolate bar (or morsels)
1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
8 tablespoons whipped topping
Directions
Coat 4-quart slow cooker with spray. Place cake mix, 1 cup water, and eggs in large bowl; beat with hand mixer until blended. Add peanut butter; mix well and pour mixture into slow cooker.
Microwave remaining 1 cup water on HIGH for 2 minutes or until steaming. Break chocolate into pieces, if needed, then place in water and stir until melted; let stand 1 minute to cool. Pour chocolate over batter in slow cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW for 2–2 1/2 hours (or HIGH for 1 1/2–1 3/4 hours) or until toothpick inserted near center comes out with fudgy crumbs. Chop peanuts. Serve cake straight from slow cooker topped with whipped topping and peanuts.
NUTELLA MUG CAKE
This easy yumminess is from TheSpruceEats, and begins, “This gloriously simple mug cake recipe puts you just 60 seconds away from a super indulgent dessert for Nutella lovers looking to satisfy a craving in a hurry. With ingredients you probably already have on hand, this is a perfect sweet treat for one.“
Total Time: 7 minutes; Prep: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 2 minutes; Yield: 1 Serving.
To view this yumminess online, click here.
Ingredients
1/4 cup whole milk (can also use 2 percent)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup Nutella
Directions
Gather the ingredients.
Add milk, flour, and baking powder in a 12-ounce microwave-safe mug. Whisk until smooth.
Add the Nutella and stir until the batter has no lumps.
Microwave on high for about 45 to 60 seconds.
Continue microwaving slowly in 15-second intervals. Microwaves vary but what you’re looking for is to see the cake look set and dry, the edges will pull away from the side of the mug and the cake will feel springy and fluffy to the touch. It will probably take an additional 30 to 60 seconds in total.
For best results, serve immediately.
POUND CAKE
This comes from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Who says you can't have your cake and eat it, too? With this low-sodium pound cake, you'll enjoy a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.” Makes 12 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 cup butter, unsalted and softened
5 eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups flour
Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar and butter in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy (2 to 3 minutes). Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed (2 to 3 minutes). Add sour cream, milk and vanilla. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Reduce speed to low. Add flour; beat just until moistened. Spoon batter into greased and floured 12-cup bundt or 10-inch tube pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes; remove from pan. Cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
NAKED CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER LAYER CAKE
This comes from The Baker Chick (otherwise known as Audra). Here’s part of what Audra wrote: “My favorite basic chocolate cake is layered with rich chocolate ganache and fluffy peanut butter frosting. I chose to make a naked cake because I’m so obsessed with the look of them, but many different options would work for this. The cake could be made in a bundt pan with the frosting slathered on and the ganache poured on top. Or, you could frost it more traditionally, frosting it all perfectly smooth and then once again pouring the ganache on top. Whatever you decide, if you are a chocolate/peanut butter lover I know you’ll adore this cake.” Yield: 10-12 servings
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder*
2 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 and 1/4 cups sugar
2 and 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons buttermilk
4 1/2 tablespoons safflower oil
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
12 tablespoons of butter, softened (1 1/2 sticks)
1 cup creamy peanut butter
3 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream, whipped to stiff peaks
For the Ganache:
4.5 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
peanut butter cups to garnish (optional)
Instructions
For the Cake:
Preheat oven to 350F.
Grease and flour your cake pans, lining with a circle of parchment paper. (This can be 6, 8 or 9 inch pans, I would use at least 3 pans if doing 6 inch though.)
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt.
Stir in the water, buttermilk, oil, vanilla and eggs, continue to stir until batter is smooth.
Divide batter amongst the pans and bake for 25-35 mins, or until a cake tester inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean. Set aside to cool.
For the Ganache:
Place the chocolate in a heat-proof bowl. Bring the heavy cream to a simmer on the stove-top, and then pour over the chopped chocolate. Whisk until smooth. Allow to cool and thicken before using. (I pop mine in the fridge or freezer.
For the Frosting:
Cream together the butter and peanut butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar until well combined. Fold in the whipped cream until frosting is smooth and fluffy.
To assemble:
Using a serrated knife, level each cake layer, slicing off the "domed" top to make it even. Place the bottom later on a piece of parchment paper on a cake turntable (if you have one.)
Spread a layer of ganache over the first layer of cake, sticking it into the fridge or freezer if needed to firm it up. (I stuck the whole cake into the fridge between each frosting layer.)
Follow with a layer of frosting, then another layer of cake, more ganache, more frosting etc. Add some frosting to the outside of the cake, smoothing with a spatula. Top with chopped peanut butter cups.
Notes:
* Base cake recipe adapted from Martha Stewart
Thursday, January 3, 2019
Baked Goodies - Double-Post Thursday
Besides being Diabetic Thursday, it's also Double-Post Thursday. Today's double post deals with Baked Goodies, including Chocolate Peppermint Bars and Salted Caramel Banana Bread. Enjoy!
CINNAMON BAKED DOUGHNUTS
This is from Ina Garten of the Food Network show, Barefoot Contessa.
Level: Easy; Total: 35 min; Active: 15 min; Yield: 12 doughnuts
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Baking spray with flour, such as Baker's Joy
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 extra-large egg, lightly beaten
1 1/4 cups whole milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the topping:
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray 2 doughnut pans well.
Into a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
Spoon the batter into the baking pans, filling each one a little more than three-quarters full. Bake for 17 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then tap the doughnuts out onto a sheet pan.
For the topping, melt the 8 tablespoons of butter in an 8-inch saute pan. Combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Dip each doughnut first in the butter and then in the cinnamon sugar, either on one side or both sides.
SALTED CARAMEL BANANA BREAD
This is from tbsp. (tablespoon.com), and begins, “Banana bread is delicious all by itself, but add a layer of salted caramel to the top and it's just plain decadent!”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 0 minutes; Servings: 1 loaf
To view t his online, click here.
Ingredients
2 whole eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup oil
1/3 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 3/4 cups Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 ripe bananas
20 unwrapped caramels
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon sea salt
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray. Add eggs, sugar, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla to a large bowl. Whisk until combined.
Add flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients.
Mash bananas with a fork and add to the batter. Mix until just combined.
Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pan for 15 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the glaze by melting caramels and milk in the microwave for 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Poor over bread and sprinkle with sea salt.
PUMPKIN CRISP
This comes from Delish.com, and begins, “This crisp will make you forget pumpkin pie ever existed. The crunchy topping is the perfect accompaniment to the smooth pumpkin filling.”
Yields: 6 servings; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Cooking spray, for pan
3 eggs
1 c. granulated sugar
1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin purée
2/3 c. heavy cream
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
For the Topping
1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar
Pinch kosher salt
3/4 c. cold butter, in 1/2" cubes
1 c. chopped pecans
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a skillet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. When smooth and fully combined, add pumpkin, cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and blended. Pour into prepared pan.
In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the flour, brown sugar, and salt to combine and break up any clumps of brown sugar. Scatter the cubed butter over the dry ingredients and pulse again until crumbs form. Stir in the pecans.
In the palm of your hand, press handfuls of the topping into rough balls. Break off teaspoon-sized pieces and place over the pumpkin.
Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.
Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
VEGAN VANILLA MAPLE BANANA BREAD
This is by Girl Versus Dough on tbsp. (tablespoon.com), and begins, “A delicious, healthy (and dairy-free and egg-free!) take on a quick bread favorite.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Servings: 1 loaf
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 1/2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
3 very ripe bananas, peeled and smashed
1/2 cup oil (I prefer vegetable)
2 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 1/2 tablespoons water
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flours, brown sugar, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.
In a separate medium bowl, combine vanilla, bananas, oil, maple syrup and water.
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
Pour batter into a lightly greased 8 x 4-inch loaf pan. Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Wait at least 15 minutes to remove bread from loaf pan. Allow to cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing or serving.
CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT BARS
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter, and begins, “A little-known fact: Creamy chocolate-covered peppermint patties are not hard to make at home. Here, the minty filling and chocolate coating are layered onto a cocoa-imbued shortbread base, which adds a cookie crunch to each bite. These keep well, so you can make them a week ahead; store airtight at room temperature. They also freeze well. The coconut oil makes the chocolate coating slightly shinier and a little more brittle in a good way, so use it if you have it. But if you don't have it on hand, you can omit it.”
Yield: 36 squares; Time: 1 hour 10 minutes, plus chilling.
This was featured in“Peppermint Patties Worthy Of Dessert” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Shortbread:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cupgranulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)
For the Peppermint Filling and Chocolate Top:
3 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 1/4 teaspoons/10 milliliters peppermint extract, or to taste
9 ounces bittersweet chocolate (at least 60 percent cocoa solids), chopped
1/2 teaspoon coconut oil (optional)
Preparation
Heat oven to 325 degrees. Line a 9-inch-square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing 2 inches of paper to hang over the sides.
Make the shortbread: In a food processor, pulse together flour, sugar, cocoa powder and salt. Add butter and process until a smooth dough forms. Press dough evenly into the bottom of prepared baking pan. Bake until firm to the touch, and sides of the crust are beginning to pull away from the pan, about 25 minutes. Cool completely.
Make the filling: In a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine confectioners' sugar, butter, cream and peppermint extract. Beat until mixture forms a thick, smooth paste. Press filling evenly over shortbread. Chill to set the filling for at least 1 hour and up to overnight.
Use parchment paper overhang to lift the shortbread and peppermint out of the baking pan and onto a cutting board. Cut into 1 1/2-inch squares (there should be 36 squares). Place squares on a rack placed over a parchment-lined sheet tray, and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
In the top of a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt 7 ounces chocolate, stirring occasionally, until smooth. Remove from heat, add remaining 2 ounces chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
Add coconut oil, if using, and stir the chocolate until smooth. Spoon 1 teaspoon chocolate on top of a cut peppermint square, using the back of the spoon to spread chocolate to the edges. Be sure to fully cover the top of the square with chocolate. (Leave the sides exposed, though it's O.K. if some of the chocolate drips down.) Repeat with remaining squares.
Let squares sit at room temperature until chocolate is set, at least 1 hour.
POUND CAKE
This comes from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Who says you can't have your cake and eat it, too? With this low-sodium pound cake, you'll enjoy a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.” Makes 12 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 cup butter, unsalted and softened
5 eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups flour
Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar and butter in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy (2 to 3 minutes). Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed (2 to 3 minutes). Add sour cream, milk and vanilla. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Reduce speed to low. Add flour; beat just until moistened. Spoon batter into greased and floured 12-cup bundt or 10-inch tube pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes; remove from pan. Cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
CINNAMON BAKED DOUGHNUTS
This is from Ina Garten of the Food Network show, Barefoot Contessa.
Level: Easy; Total: 35 min; Active: 15 min; Yield: 12 doughnuts
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Baking spray with flour, such as Baker's Joy
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 extra-large egg, lightly beaten
1 1/4 cups whole milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the topping:
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray 2 doughnut pans well.
Into a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
Spoon the batter into the baking pans, filling each one a little more than three-quarters full. Bake for 17 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then tap the doughnuts out onto a sheet pan.
For the topping, melt the 8 tablespoons of butter in an 8-inch saute pan. Combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Dip each doughnut first in the butter and then in the cinnamon sugar, either on one side or both sides.
SALTED CARAMEL BANANA BREAD
This is from tbsp. (tablespoon.com), and begins, “Banana bread is delicious all by itself, but add a layer of salted caramel to the top and it's just plain decadent!”
Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 0 minutes; Servings: 1 loaf
To view t his online, click here.
Ingredients
2 whole eggs
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/2 cup oil
1/3 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 3/4 cups Gold Medal™ all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 ripe bananas
20 unwrapped caramels
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon sea salt
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray. Add eggs, sugar, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla to a large bowl. Whisk until combined.
Add flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients.
Mash bananas with a fork and add to the batter. Mix until just combined.
Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pan for 15 minutes. Remove from pan and cool completely on a wire rack.
Make the glaze by melting caramels and milk in the microwave for 1 minute. Stir until smooth. Poor over bread and sprinkle with sea salt.
PUMPKIN CRISP
This comes from Delish.com, and begins, “This crisp will make you forget pumpkin pie ever existed. The crunchy topping is the perfect accompaniment to the smooth pumpkin filling.”
Yields: 6 servings; Prep Time: 15 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
Cooking spray, for pan
3 eggs
1 c. granulated sugar
1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin purée
2/3 c. heavy cream
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
For the Topping
1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar
Pinch kosher salt
3/4 c. cold butter, in 1/2" cubes
1 c. chopped pecans
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for garnish
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a skillet with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar. When smooth and fully combined, add pumpkin, cream, vanilla, pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 tsp kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and blended. Pour into prepared pan.
In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the flour, brown sugar, and salt to combine and break up any clumps of brown sugar. Scatter the cubed butter over the dry ingredients and pulse again until crumbs form. Stir in the pecans.
In the palm of your hand, press handfuls of the topping into rough balls. Break off teaspoon-sized pieces and place over the pumpkin.
Bake until the filling is set and the top is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.
Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
VEGAN VANILLA MAPLE BANANA BREAD
This is by Girl Versus Dough on tbsp. (tablespoon.com), and begins, “A delicious, healthy (and dairy-free and egg-free!) take on a quick bread favorite.”
Prep Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Servings: 1 loaf
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
3/4 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 1/2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
3 very ripe bananas, peeled and smashed
1/2 cup oil (I prefer vegetable)
2 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup
2 1/2 tablespoons water
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flours, brown sugar, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.
In a separate medium bowl, combine vanilla, bananas, oil, maple syrup and water.
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
Pour batter into a lightly greased 8 x 4-inch loaf pan. Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Wait at least 15 minutes to remove bread from loaf pan. Allow to cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing or serving.
CHOCOLATE PEPPERMINT BARS
This is from Melissa Clark in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter, and begins, “A little-known fact: Creamy chocolate-covered peppermint patties are not hard to make at home. Here, the minty filling and chocolate coating are layered onto a cocoa-imbued shortbread base, which adds a cookie crunch to each bite. These keep well, so you can make them a week ahead; store airtight at room temperature. They also freeze well. The coconut oil makes the chocolate coating slightly shinier and a little more brittle in a good way, so use it if you have it. But if you don't have it on hand, you can omit it.”
Yield: 36 squares; Time: 1 hour 10 minutes, plus chilling.
This was featured in“Peppermint Patties Worthy Of Dessert” and can be viewed online here.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Shortbread:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cupgranulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)
For the Peppermint Filling and Chocolate Top:
3 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 1/4 teaspoons/10 milliliters peppermint extract, or to taste
9 ounces bittersweet chocolate (at least 60 percent cocoa solids), chopped
1/2 teaspoon coconut oil (optional)
Preparation
Heat oven to 325 degrees. Line a 9-inch-square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing 2 inches of paper to hang over the sides.
Make the shortbread: In a food processor, pulse together flour, sugar, cocoa powder and salt. Add butter and process until a smooth dough forms. Press dough evenly into the bottom of prepared baking pan. Bake until firm to the touch, and sides of the crust are beginning to pull away from the pan, about 25 minutes. Cool completely.
Make the filling: In a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine confectioners' sugar, butter, cream and peppermint extract. Beat until mixture forms a thick, smooth paste. Press filling evenly over shortbread. Chill to set the filling for at least 1 hour and up to overnight.
Use parchment paper overhang to lift the shortbread and peppermint out of the baking pan and onto a cutting board. Cut into 1 1/2-inch squares (there should be 36 squares). Place squares on a rack placed over a parchment-lined sheet tray, and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
In the top of a double boiler or in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, melt 7 ounces chocolate, stirring occasionally, until smooth. Remove from heat, add remaining 2 ounces chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
Add coconut oil, if using, and stir the chocolate until smooth. Spoon 1 teaspoon chocolate on top of a cut peppermint square, using the back of the spoon to spread chocolate to the edges. Be sure to fully cover the top of the square with chocolate. (Leave the sides exposed, though it's O.K. if some of the chocolate drips down.) Repeat with remaining squares.
Let squares sit at room temperature until chocolate is set, at least 1 hour.
POUND CAKE
This comes from MyDailyMoment.com, and begins, “Who says you can't have your cake and eat it, too? With this low-sodium pound cake, you'll enjoy a decadent dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth.” Makes 12 servings.
To view this online, click here.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 cup butter, unsalted and softened
5 eggs
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups flour
Directions
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine sugar and butter in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy (2 to 3 minutes). Continue beating, adding eggs one at a time, until well mixed (2 to 3 minutes). Add sour cream, milk and vanilla. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Reduce speed to low. Add flour; beat just until moistened. Spoon batter into greased and floured 12-cup bundt or 10-inch tube pan. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 15 minutes; remove from pan. Cool completely. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)