tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7075501211493836812024-03-13T23:13:56.665-07:00SarahCupcakeSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.comBlogger244125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-63341918620891411942012-11-07T08:22:00.000-08:002012-11-07T08:22:14.151-08:00Coconut Layer Cake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMCdz1ZSBQPdDd9MEYut0Kz2THbm13PUVYLBvoBNo-xTnGymSJrKCf_gr4rBrUultQ8VBgBQ5JglKEaDOqo32Xi2VNGsgon3N7GD0-mFzxFaEHKwi0jVhRTprIs5ag8vichmoYrVZzHE/s1600/106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEMCdz1ZSBQPdDd9MEYut0Kz2THbm13PUVYLBvoBNo-xTnGymSJrKCf_gr4rBrUultQ8VBgBQ5JglKEaDOqo32Xi2VNGsgon3N7GD0-mFzxFaEHKwi0jVhRTprIs5ag8vichmoYrVZzHE/s640/106.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Last weekend we had my mom's birthday at the house. She wanted an all-coconut cake for her birthday, and this is the cake I made for her. It's a four layer white coconut cake made with lots of egg whites and coconut cream. The frosting is a vanilla swiss meringue buttercream infused with even more coconut cream. I got the recipe through America's Test Kitchen, and while I have to say the recipe - and all their recipes - was fantastic, the cake came out a little bit dry. It could've been a problem with my oven temperature but I followed the recipe to a T and even took it out of the oven early since I sensed it was over-cooked. I think a good soaking syrup of milk and a little vanilla extract would have solved the problem. Visually, the cake is stunning and I love the look of it on the retro blue cake stand. Mom, if you're reading this, happy birthday and I love you!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1qaKP6ZQIMhbz8tpoKW6NJ9oi7w_ydHEUju83btgV0DXvNyuTuFI2J2M3htuRsYm2wGOHKpjoYnKVkMOFktVibvxl9c6StND4i_hYxugdDI6HCDdMgwwJ8bWpYzcoWY601NmW6oHjmc/s1600/030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG1qaKP6ZQIMhbz8tpoKW6NJ9oi7w_ydHEUju83btgV0DXvNyuTuFI2J2M3htuRsYm2wGOHKpjoYnKVkMOFktVibvxl9c6StND4i_hYxugdDI6HCDdMgwwJ8bWpYzcoWY601NmW6oHjmc/s640/030.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC9FyfEOBPhMPobfPypxd_TgqtuccKlfZ8rCnEPE7hd8FqaiThDeZWoPsTdbic2ielq5PA-8eiGk3ddyGC9tfmqy9D1OpuKRlqMswVBDwnbJQASDF-Mnodhdv7C6cu4EwIZ61gMyDUX2w/s1600/041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC9FyfEOBPhMPobfPypxd_TgqtuccKlfZ8rCnEPE7hd8FqaiThDeZWoPsTdbic2ielq5PA-8eiGk3ddyGC9tfmqy9D1OpuKRlqMswVBDwnbJQASDF-Mnodhdv7C6cu4EwIZ61gMyDUX2w/s640/041.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWnH7u-pc7RQLYOOzjZI3uIYHD6gKoLmYcw8qLWpUKawDgoq3-SndB7MBpTlFUB6Ve_dE1SVXNEhjFzfdKFCncHdb2oFzMYX_FmTC-Gs2ks9haETsWvgymsshDCXVIIk0vDU5kFv3V_A/s1600/055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWnH7u-pc7RQLYOOzjZI3uIYHD6gKoLmYcw8qLWpUKawDgoq3-SndB7MBpTlFUB6Ve_dE1SVXNEhjFzfdKFCncHdb2oFzMYX_FmTC-Gs2ks9haETsWvgymsshDCXVIIk0vDU5kFv3V_A/s640/055.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmuTNpyq5AiNkfFFHZIFEW_Uq_cl1R4OaO4J8w7oOeoTLu69YA7gOTsuT2x9ks_Wssrhahyphenhyphend0zxtqq0qnr5XWuFVvO7xtWq60nochRY533UoaOiPUzACsEfORQWmqyVlknGDAuZntp7E/s1600/056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmuTNpyq5AiNkfFFHZIFEW_Uq_cl1R4OaO4J8w7oOeoTLu69YA7gOTsuT2x9ks_Wssrhahyphenhyphend0zxtqq0qnr5XWuFVvO7xtWq60nochRY533UoaOiPUzACsEfORQWmqyVlknGDAuZntp7E/s640/056.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAIaFuDQ5dDOch0YgyYEv9ktEUenN6gSPXscscXgP9wUVeaV0edrRy1UCESklCLdh_YpSNDgduOf0gTtfw9LFLwE7STkLlNdIGcLDf12F0sg6xzz6MAmGG2ym4O8n25KZ-P4m3THM15I/s1600/done.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="588" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAIaFuDQ5dDOch0YgyYEv9ktEUenN6gSPXscscXgP9wUVeaV0edrRy1UCESklCLdh_YpSNDgduOf0gTtfw9LFLwE7STkLlNdIGcLDf12F0sg6xzz6MAmGG2ym4O8n25KZ-P4m3THM15I/s640/done.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUwcv8vnm9JqKFVcN1wAI4jVGKsGfwDPiW8sYqysRZwCpdcgfYUWcYKpoIknetyK6wVpsAYZmNFH8KjBJhUhnafVSzOXs9jL2kch2R_ZGoAM2yknty_p6RGxwuS7VOrb5pwNi69WpBR0/s1600/done2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfUwcv8vnm9JqKFVcN1wAI4jVGKsGfwDPiW8sYqysRZwCpdcgfYUWcYKpoIknetyK6wVpsAYZmNFH8KjBJhUhnafVSzOXs9jL2kch2R_ZGoAM2yknty_p6RGxwuS7VOrb5pwNi69WpBR0/s640/done2.jpg" width="562" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
*Note - I re-wrote this recipe in my own words. To get the full/original recipe you need to buy your own America's Test Kitchen membership!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Coconut Layer Cake</u></span><br />
<i>Yield: one 9" cake</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
<i>For the coconut cake layers:</i><br />
2 1/4 cups cake flour<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 tbsp baking powder<br />
3/4 tsp table salt<br />
1 large egg<br />
5 large egg whites<br />
3/4 cup cream of coconut<br />
1/4 cup water<br />
1 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
1/4 tsp coconut extract<br />
12 tbsp unsalted butter, at room temp<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>For the coconut swiss meringue buttercream:</i><br />
4 large egg whites<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 lb unsalted butter (4 sticks), at room temp<br />
1/4 cup cream of coconut<br />
1 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
1/8 tsp coconut extract<br />
1/4 tsp table salt<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour two 9" cake pans. Set aside.<br />
<br />
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachments beat together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined. In a separate bowl whisk together the egg, egg whites, cream of coconut, water, vanilla and coconut extracts until combined. Set aside.<br />
<br />
With the mixer on low speed, add the butter 1 tablespoon at a time. Mix until the mixture resemble course sand. Add in 1 cup of the cream of coconut mixture and beat until light and fluffy. Add in the remaining mixture and beat until just combined.<br />
<br />
Divide the batter evenly among the cake pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until deep golden brown. Cool for 10 minutes before removing onto a wire rack to cool completely.<br />
<br />
To make the buttercream: set the egg whites and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer set over a bowl of simmering water. Whisk together constantly until the mixture reaches 120 degrees. Remove from the heat and beat with the whisk attachment until cooled and stiff peaks form. Add the butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, until completely incorporated. Add the cream of coconut, extracts, and salt and beat to combine.<br />
<br />
To assemble the cake: slice each cake in half to for four layers. Fill each layer with buttercream before frosting the entire cake. Garnish with more coconut, if desired.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
adapted from America's Test KitchenSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-14803514918938880902012-10-29T16:24:00.005-07:002012-10-29T16:24:53.916-07:00Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Cookies (Vegan, Gluten Free, Sugar Free)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2x-T08TcDA88wdjjBy62x3BUaS3tFdbAW2RYSYJ2elO9pZ7C8oOpjpX0pkevWIvV9JsAc7eqgfXL8wjudfiYhfl9w6TACtTbBzVUgixEW7WWlBEpifEy8zjoVHeI46OTzIIW273TgXwo/s1600/cool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2x-T08TcDA88wdjjBy62x3BUaS3tFdbAW2RYSYJ2elO9pZ7C8oOpjpX0pkevWIvV9JsAc7eqgfXL8wjudfiYhfl9w6TACtTbBzVUgixEW7WWlBEpifEy8zjoVHeI46OTzIIW273TgXwo/s640/cool.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXL-aD_AKV0_LqplNAo5MBC51wkXpjZ6UMwL7tFhbYfeWfMq0yobDoPCt2u-qOUjAYmdX5fSNVqRoYxuwAebNQS6rLd1YzyD4o1kU9H9NKSkrCqF69nKc6WqQ1xr1lGXQPnMk8g_Vvrs/s1600/cool2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtXL-aD_AKV0_LqplNAo5MBC51wkXpjZ6UMwL7tFhbYfeWfMq0yobDoPCt2u-qOUjAYmdX5fSNVqRoYxuwAebNQS6rLd1YzyD4o1kU9H9NKSkrCqF69nKc6WqQ1xr1lGXQPnMk8g_Vvrs/s640/cool2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrAsH_zsLJMjoKYrY80bq3VixbH5LsbPK_cFR-h0S3oo6MYT37QafkN6vkVO_tDf46ZTowQFxYzISpzWGD226Euk97-Qyqidu6J0Zm-_UbK4XT8y71L-5IIMfcRwDuWUCMFirj9z5lrU/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVrAsH_zsLJMjoKYrY80bq3VixbH5LsbPK_cFR-h0S3oo6MYT37QafkN6vkVO_tDf46ZTowQFxYzISpzWGD226Euk97-Qyqidu6J0Zm-_UbK4XT8y71L-5IIMfcRwDuWUCMFirj9z5lrU/s640/010.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswsVQiRl1na1e_UrDdADL9CEDB0wm9Ri-tZVQbT6qzzUDBD8TVcc-n03ydVgYKJUcXzGgUR9PcrAn28kZGAmmiCPqmNGWPqyl79g9CnHxfpBCE4sdspCJZMcEMuEpM1YBeB1jzF18yVI/s1600/cool4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgswsVQiRl1na1e_UrDdADL9CEDB0wm9Ri-tZVQbT6qzzUDBD8TVcc-n03ydVgYKJUcXzGgUR9PcrAn28kZGAmmiCPqmNGWPqyl79g9CnHxfpBCE4sdspCJZMcEMuEpM1YBeB1jzF18yVI/s640/cool4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I think I may have to switch to these cookies permanently as a rule. They're so rich, fudgey, and peanut buttery that they satisfy my craving for Reese's and then some. My mom even loved them, and she's more of a salty person than a sweet person. Unfortunately we at all of them by ourselves before poor sick Riley could taste them. She's got croup, or something like it, and a wicked fever. On the plus side, by the time she's feeling better I'll have plenty more ready for her in place of all the Halloween candy she'll want to be eating.<br />
<br />
That's the thing with these cookies. They're super healthy!!! There's zero flour, sugar, buter, or eggs in them. They're strictly made up of dates, peanuts, and cocoa (and a few other dashes of things) which makes them vegan and gluten free. I'm just excited that they taste so freaking good!<br />
<br />
On a side note, you can see from the pictures that I'm having a hard time making up my mind tonight. The bottom two were taken on my counter using incandescent lighting. The top two were taken right in front of the window with natural light. Huge difference, right?<br />
<br />
<u><span style="font-size: large;">Peanut Butter Chocolate Fudge Cookies</span></u><br />
<i>Yield: 8 cookies</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
5 dates, pitted<br />
20 roasted, unsalted peanuts (a small handful)<br />
2 tbsp natural peanut butter<br />
2 tbsp dark cocoa powder<br />
dash vanilla extract<br />
pinch salt<br />
splash almond milk<br />
chocolate chips, optional<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Add all ingredients except almond milk and chocolate chips to a food processor. Blend until smooth. Add enough almond milk to form a very thick dough. Roll the dough into 8 balls, flatten slightly, and garnish with chocolate chips. Eat as is or chill until firm.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
inspired by <a href="http://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/chocolate-covered-recipes/fudge-baby-mania/">Chocolate Covered Katie</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-33390888363449053062012-10-28T12:38:00.000-07:002012-10-28T12:38:05.155-07:00Butternut Squash Farro Salad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighd_38ZToznluWo6jH4tb8a351kO2k9kH9YbMy9rGybWMmgWwf8_q_XdKITnwDppxVBI6-2-PkwaGgFqsoRakkXPu-33LeCitJrDnh3epl3KqyI5NqiuUHYFudldHXXMlwdccMEb2X8o/s1600/idk3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEighd_38ZToznluWo6jH4tb8a351kO2k9kH9YbMy9rGybWMmgWwf8_q_XdKITnwDppxVBI6-2-PkwaGgFqsoRakkXPu-33LeCitJrDnh3epl3KqyI5NqiuUHYFudldHXXMlwdccMEb2X8o/s640/idk3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I'm pretty obsessed with this salad. It's oil-free, flour-free, vegan, low-calorie, and delicious so how could I not love it? I've been thinking a lot about low-calorie, vegetable-based meals lately since I need to drop a lot more weight, and I'm pretty much on my own with it. There's no reason why I shouldn't be able to still stuff my face with delicious enjoyable vegetables. Thanks to Pinterest, blogs, and the internet I now know that there's a million super healthy vegetable based meals out there to stuff my face with. There's even muffins and desserts, too!! This makes me uber excited, and I can't wait to go shopping next week armed with a new recipe list.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Butternut Squash Farro Salad</u></span><br />
<i>Yield: 4-6 servings</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
2 cups butternut squash, 1/2" cube<br />
2 onions, chopped<br />
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, divided<br />
1/4 tsp dried thyme<br />
1 cup farro, rinsed<br />
3 cups water<br />
2 ounces toasted pecans, roughly chopped<br />
salt and pepper, to taste<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Combine the butternut squash and onions in a small roasting pan. Drizzle with 2 tbsp of the balsamic vinegar, thyme, and salt and pepper. Toss to combine and roast for about 20 minutes or until visibly charred in spots. Set aside.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, combine the farro and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a low boil. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the farro is al dente. Drain any excess water.<br />
<br />
In a large bowl combine the roasted butternut squash-onion mixture, farro, remaining 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar, and pecans. Salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
Sarah Cupcake originalSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-90795082645664222442012-10-22T05:39:00.005-07:002012-10-22T05:39:55.313-07:00DIY Owl Cupcake Toppers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwX8vGYvLLOuMrHwmFvrFnSF8AbB0v3BbTpUQnTkUMllwMueGAFJhCOh9PY5qbCwe_g6TRqDdkPFYbcF_mtnMOwMbGl5Z1bstOsBoMgFoM-4z1F-BPiw8NEtjykhjFNu75RnH0gW50arQ/s1600/166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwX8vGYvLLOuMrHwmFvrFnSF8AbB0v3BbTpUQnTkUMllwMueGAFJhCOh9PY5qbCwe_g6TRqDdkPFYbcF_mtnMOwMbGl5Z1bstOsBoMgFoM-4z1F-BPiw8NEtjykhjFNu75RnH0gW50arQ/s640/166.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBNhMu-ru6T66yz0I2-aJBdv7T31aYOuK-YO9d0kr7RlIHKu2qX6DJMWJP0I6fhOP1MDpbgf01dMn3S2FKc9ASNVWlSNvxPHVVeuWPNTUcHAy2L-3RzX6Jj6xYriSQgkCHPLa5XHaHNuM/s1600/171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBNhMu-ru6T66yz0I2-aJBdv7T31aYOuK-YO9d0kr7RlIHKu2qX6DJMWJP0I6fhOP1MDpbgf01dMn3S2FKc9ASNVWlSNvxPHVVeuWPNTUcHAy2L-3RzX6Jj6xYriSQgkCHPLa5XHaHNuM/s640/171.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
OMG. Aren't these the most adorable things ever?! I just LOVE the huge eyes and color. I made the owls with leftover fondant from my post about how to create your own fondant from scratch (it lasts about 3-4 months in the cupboard if wrapped well). These were just a random craft I made with Riley as an activity. She'd rather eat the fondant than play with it! The idea came from a pin on Pinterest (sounds familiar lately). I drew and cut out the owl shape and nose freehand. The eyes were made using two different sized pastry tips as cutters and the half-moon detail is also just the imprint of a pastry tip.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sarahcupcake.com/2012/08/diy-fondant.html"><span style="font-size: large;">DIY Marshmallow Fondant</span></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.sarahcupcake.com/2012/08/diy-cupcake-toppers.html"><span style="font-size: large;">DIY Cupcake Toppers How-To</span></a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-17437476447476918042012-10-19T09:45:00.000-07:002012-10-19T09:45:36.476-07:00Apple Streusel Cheesecake Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDpphsdhCM_CJfVshDHR8TqOTXv4x4aBcnLSEgbylysoldCnH8izHoM7aPMoSHZLfzQj6L8eiUywWR8Qv38QteEFOU02Zef2TZvmejB2mIETTNicjG5ES5PCyEIYNNs2dxBKoitsOtYIE/s1600/yum3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDpphsdhCM_CJfVshDHR8TqOTXv4x4aBcnLSEgbylysoldCnH8izHoM7aPMoSHZLfzQj6L8eiUywWR8Qv38QteEFOU02Zef2TZvmejB2mIETTNicjG5ES5PCyEIYNNs2dxBKoitsOtYIE/s640/yum3.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The wait for these cheesecakes to cool completely in the fridge might have just been the longest wait ever with the exception of labor and delivery! These start off with a graham cracker crust, then a thick layer of cheesecake, and on top of that, cinnamon apples and streusel. After the pumpkin swirl cheesecake cupcakes were so popular on here - and with everyone that tried them - I had to make another cheesecake cupcake. The base cupcake recipe in itself is to-die-for. Now that I've made these, I'm pretty obsessed with them!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeF-8OC2-PE2Ab0Tws5qjVLJtMwcnt6AkI2NNbNVn7bxump3h4sowzQWpz_FWL9IBNMHuHsbXPOoga0ukkqgMb0eGuCrohD3Jto27wtvNS-KYiJ6JumtB42mcYDKtXpkGIVnpthCGkDYo/s1600/ooh3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeF-8OC2-PE2Ab0Tws5qjVLJtMwcnt6AkI2NNbNVn7bxump3h4sowzQWpz_FWL9IBNMHuHsbXPOoga0ukkqgMb0eGuCrohD3Jto27wtvNS-KYiJ6JumtB42mcYDKtXpkGIVnpthCGkDYo/s640/ooh3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Apple Streusel Cheesecake Cupcakes</u></span><br />
<i>yield: 14 mini cheesecakes</i><br />
<i><br /></i><b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
<i>For the crust:</i><br />
7 graham cracker sheets (or equivalent in gingersnaps)<br />
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
2 tbsp sugar<br />
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted<br />
<br />
<i>For the cheesecake:</i><br />
16 ounces cream cheese, softened<br />
2/3 cup sugar<br />
2 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1/2 cup sour cream<br />
<br />
<i>For the apple topping:</i><br />
2 granny smith apples, peeled and diced small<br />
2 tbsp sugar<br />
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
<br />
<i>For the streusel topping:</i><br />
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed<br />
1/2 cup all-purpose flour<br />
1/4 cup old-fashioned oats<br />
1/4 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/4 tsp kosher salt<br />
4 tbsp unsalted butter, at room temp<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line a 24-cup muffin pan with 14 cupcake liners (double them up if using paper liners).<br />
<br />
To make the crust: in a food processor, grind up the graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place the graham crackers in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Place the graham cracker crumbs in a bowl, and stir in the ground cinnamon and sugar. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.<br />
<br />
Put about one tablespoon of the graham cracker crumb mixture in the bottom of each cupcake liner. Press down the crumbs with your hand. Set aside.<br />
<br />
To make the cheesecake: in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (a handheld mixer works fine, too) mix the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes. The cream cheese should be smooth without any lumps. Add in the sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.<br />
<br />
Turn the mixer to low speed and add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until completely incorporated. Use a spatula to scrap down the sides of the bowl and fully incorporate the ingredients. Add the sour cream and beat until the cheesecake mixture is smooth. Fill each cupcake liner 3/4 of the way full with the cheesecake mixture.<br />
<br />
Make the apple topping by mixing all ingredients together until combined. Evenly top the cupcakes with the apple filling, pressing down slightly to adhere the apples into the cheesecake mixture.<br />
<br />
In a separate bowl make the streusal topping by mixing together all ingredients until combined. Generously top each cupcake with streusal. Pile it high, these cupcakes barely rise so don't be skimpy.<br />
<br />
Bake for 27-30 minutes, rotating the pan half way through the baking time. Once the cheesecakes are done baking, cool them completely in the refrigerator overnight (keep them in the cupcake baking pan). Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
slightly adapted from <a href="http://gingerbreadbagels.com/2010/10/25/mini-pumpkin-swirl-cheesecakes/">Gingerbread Bagels</a> and <a href="http://www.polishthestars.com/2011/08/caramel-apple-cheesecake-bars.html">Polish the Stars</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-73865554146442701602012-10-17T07:49:00.001-07:002012-10-17T07:49:30.377-07:00What I Ate Wednesday<center>
<a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Spooky Snacks and Healthy Halloween Treats" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7lsVvSl1JMUnfeqrZVFUGTagnvip-PSqZ1Dpzi5YG5XtqEThHBi_MJCRUhEizeVL1y-lIghphOngKChXvb4gsTTQX4EEzBQOP0wnzopuTDXrkp0Jd7Ex46Rde38Yy8X2Y644lprmBkNuk/s1600/what+i+ate+wednesday+october+breast+cancer+awareness+halloween+button.jpg" /></a></center>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've got a few spooky treats for my WIAW this week. First of all, I made a delicious green monster smoothie for breakfast that looks as green as the Hulk and tastes nothing like spinach. It's been Riley's favorite new smoothie, and she asks for it almost every day. My other spooky snack is a light vanilla ice cream with hot mulled apple cider poured over it. I'm pretty happy with these two healthy snacks since I've been cutting out junk food, sugar, dairy, and most carbs lately. Basically, I've just been trying to eat clean as much as possible. I've got two cakes to bake this weekend that aren't at all for me so I can get into my happy place without sacrificing my diet. That being said, I also made sugar cookie dough for fall cookie baking with Riley, and I may just have to eat a few of those. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You can scroll through the picture version of my day of eats, because you know you don't want to read. If you do then you can read everything down at the bottom.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtjzqiVyJiPs5D18BmexleHvyJQp-lE1Wx7C5LvnBAcU0RcKEtit36zkaQoMvmX3rPFoBH3mGREw1boTQsjoarjOB2ASzppNy6sMz7HVDJYuJAWYduqirW5Hu4mGldS0_Sqm9BC831IE/s1600/030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOtjzqiVyJiPs5D18BmexleHvyJQp-lE1Wx7C5LvnBAcU0RcKEtit36zkaQoMvmX3rPFoBH3mGREw1boTQsjoarjOB2ASzppNy6sMz7HVDJYuJAWYduqirW5Hu4mGldS0_Sqm9BC831IE/s640/030.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4VNpefcXt43YP0dff3_K8Ogt0iWiMOWGk57HWsmPdelIIEaSBDzpvNyRLHO91pWeyqJWfpLNoIBhuZxX2T3tj8KR964foOBOjzcHjSsUlNwM1V6qCjLU-3lpzH8QfWyY4shq3vpJBKQ/s1600/042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA4VNpefcXt43YP0dff3_K8Ogt0iWiMOWGk57HWsmPdelIIEaSBDzpvNyRLHO91pWeyqJWfpLNoIBhuZxX2T3tj8KR964foOBOjzcHjSsUlNwM1V6qCjLU-3lpzH8QfWyY4shq3vpJBKQ/s640/042.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rdC1mCVsYieJHd9rZZjfPxhHogPcmYSona017CN7OhhaL_hcg94ETbSBgoOj_s14dwzVe12TtD1UarUE6VllKzy5iBJYScFXaDLDgBapvOMEj51rC1mgNk5g5eRRpqrWGC4FCpm7xCM/s1600/045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rdC1mCVsYieJHd9rZZjfPxhHogPcmYSona017CN7OhhaL_hcg94ETbSBgoOj_s14dwzVe12TtD1UarUE6VllKzy5iBJYScFXaDLDgBapvOMEj51rC1mgNk5g5eRRpqrWGC4FCpm7xCM/s640/045.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_5Ysim74x4ZrKaZ_pNpk3AlVbPZHBJypvYzYjpS5y2h5q2fgrWLwsGM50qy_R3YXEWmQ1H6vnFiw2UmXUuiC5tJHEd5sN7WZUOsWC_jBeBffK86ztC4fY067iIo2fitUjoOTUAbSR2w/s1600/049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP_5Ysim74x4ZrKaZ_pNpk3AlVbPZHBJypvYzYjpS5y2h5q2fgrWLwsGM50qy_R3YXEWmQ1H6vnFiw2UmXUuiC5tJHEd5sN7WZUOsWC_jBeBffK86ztC4fY067iIo2fitUjoOTUAbSR2w/s640/049.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhayPEq3Es7zOWwqruyuXOv59Q5xs3PuOaW-3IeVMLxKjh7a8Pd4rtuizugEBkOObEnNv21ECp_MXNoN2Mg6Y4XfoqmvDDQ-0-AXREcppdrKFSNntf2IRsMOGNd8E6SgI4tfrJwEDlfClU/s1600/050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhayPEq3Es7zOWwqruyuXOv59Q5xs3PuOaW-3IeVMLxKjh7a8Pd4rtuizugEBkOObEnNv21ECp_MXNoN2Mg6Y4XfoqmvDDQ-0-AXREcppdrKFSNntf2IRsMOGNd8E6SgI4tfrJwEDlfClU/s640/050.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESdxV8cyjwkrXSIaGxvCLIoGLadaseprQFdD4Icl3s8jx6QRaq-YZy6uE96KIrJ_B0mCdyH2QO6cqhBQfD0rD8B7pS-AYIsSP7dUVESeWBWeTr0qtgZOKJPkVvhcdpj5BPyPFJuvqoIo/s1600/055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESdxV8cyjwkrXSIaGxvCLIoGLadaseprQFdD4Icl3s8jx6QRaq-YZy6uE96KIrJ_B0mCdyH2QO6cqhBQfD0rD8B7pS-AYIsSP7dUVESeWBWeTr0qtgZOKJPkVvhcdpj5BPyPFJuvqoIo/s640/055.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpaeduRfAY3MBT7UPCs1qVNy44bqA7ug2rAnEKCEY79gMe9THNlCd0E0QkuWw-9XUrIaMHASSrv3A8bB8XFpRROH95YvFL4aSPxlwGQyksGEbzEx5ghq5n1qZm6Do6HJCgIJxxfucPeo/s1600/069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpaeduRfAY3MBT7UPCs1qVNy44bqA7ug2rAnEKCEY79gMe9THNlCd0E0QkuWw-9XUrIaMHASSrv3A8bB8XFpRROH95YvFL4aSPxlwGQyksGEbzEx5ghq5n1qZm6Do6HJCgIJxxfucPeo/s640/069.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEise-1_07mM4VCKbxlHqTgYI4eCWuBZ1U5oHEsHfbA11DSN7YJk-G_EDNHwH60wCEZM7-r0w3xq0Uzu1zaL84z-8wJp8AhyphenhyphenqQgV97eFX_7sPvsolau2jyilts_hhtfkRsH_eIeqNJrszzY/s1600/080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEise-1_07mM4VCKbxlHqTgYI4eCWuBZ1U5oHEsHfbA11DSN7YJk-G_EDNHwH60wCEZM7-r0w3xq0Uzu1zaL84z-8wJp8AhyphenhyphenqQgV97eFX_7sPvsolau2jyilts_hhtfkRsH_eIeqNJrszzY/s640/080.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dvbbv3ILcRr5H8vMex8akgMNUMceBQomt9JaOPfTqr9p__t2QM3QX0ylb_fymrX3NZlN1ID3O2vD8_3IuVbt2RFXg8FEkIp1FJaeTEjpdnv1tZ-k0Ds30yLp4Ri9rH0xSdSiBey8Xck/s1600/086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2dvbbv3ILcRr5H8vMex8akgMNUMceBQomt9JaOPfTqr9p__t2QM3QX0ylb_fymrX3NZlN1ID3O2vD8_3IuVbt2RFXg8FEkIp1FJaeTEjpdnv1tZ-k0Ds30yLp4Ri9rH0xSdSiBey8Xck/s640/086.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jlpCcpTczrMa0j_BkY0aS_yPOmmUHLoIDGnCmdM6lYOvjj4pmaG6D0McBMDgaZFlPvoL5eLU_brDzWOoXy7h23Je0wEUBzlaeH9AuljOCMn68BNdFOHwDhoE_79ppiKZBBLzJdpxI9A/s1600/093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jlpCcpTczrMa0j_BkY0aS_yPOmmUHLoIDGnCmdM6lYOvjj4pmaG6D0McBMDgaZFlPvoL5eLU_brDzWOoXy7h23Je0wEUBzlaeH9AuljOCMn68BNdFOHwDhoE_79ppiKZBBLzJdpxI9A/s640/093.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Breakfast was a half bottle of Synergy <b>kombucha</b>'s Trilogy flavor (my fav) and a <b>green smoothie</b> made with a banana, flax meal, spinach, blueberries, and almond milk. A medium <b>pumpkin latte</b> made up my snack. For lunch I made a <b>blackened salmon</b> <b>salad</b> with baby romaine, tomatoes, and my homemade asian sesame dressing. Dinner was sauteed <b>kale with pecans</b>, <b>roasted butternut squash</b>, and <b>tomato cucumber salad</b>. For dessert I made some <b>mulled apple cider</b> and put some of it over <b>light vanilla ice cream</b>. </div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-13200491026145114872012-10-09T19:52:00.001-07:002012-10-09T19:52:25.920-07:00Healthy Slow-Cooker Enchilada Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIV_GrfM2AcGIQasLumo_RdzL-HVDcWlw0vGMprm7OKmYK3yY9a8w8dCpSNYtGCe6L_Js_6UrxFPHAWXhVjNKaWrJLZ47wuI2uq-KUHXhL2sUlNcTDfcGZd1EHqYRpOa2oBDlfflYZp5Q/s1600/021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIV_GrfM2AcGIQasLumo_RdzL-HVDcWlw0vGMprm7OKmYK3yY9a8w8dCpSNYtGCe6L_Js_6UrxFPHAWXhVjNKaWrJLZ47wuI2uq-KUHXhL2sUlNcTDfcGZd1EHqYRpOa2oBDlfflYZp5Q/s640/021.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-j1smrqPxcspItKpcQmElBsmbcJE14IlBMd8xZKWDTSbHiUgWZDHFq4m6k0HBvUMwamV3lfncAW-oZXfRMeSgFf9zWlpGfd7f8toaD_kuchfQKfGMu6WXynhtB79QTGIX-WzQVFeRMJQ/s1600/020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-j1smrqPxcspItKpcQmElBsmbcJE14IlBMd8xZKWDTSbHiUgWZDHFq4m6k0HBvUMwamV3lfncAW-oZXfRMeSgFf9zWlpGfd7f8toaD_kuchfQKfGMu6WXynhtB79QTGIX-WzQVFeRMJQ/s640/020.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I definitely have a mixed identity when it comes to blogging. One day I post cheesecake and cupcakes, the next a recipe for braised beef, and the next a recipe for a clean appetizer. I don't know what niche I fit into in the food blogging world (cupcakes, health food, and comfort food?). I think a lot of bloggers feel the need to fit into some category, but I don't mind straying from "cupcakes". I do know why I post what I post though. When it comes to savory food, it's just what I'm eating at the time - whether it's healthy "clean" food or processed garbage (which I say lovingly). When it comes to the bottom of the food pyramid, i.e. dessert, that's what I really love to do. I bake for the sheer joy of baking. Sometimes I don't take more than a taste of what I've made because I'm only looking to enjoy being in the kitchen and putting together the final product. That's one of my happy places. This is a recipe for healthy chicken enchilada soup that I made in the slow-cooker the other night. It's what I'm really eating right now (because I don't eat cupcakes as a daily meal, although it should be required). I made it for dinner and for no other reason.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Healthy Slow-Cooker Enchilada Soup</u></span><br />
<i>Yield: 8 servings</i><br />
<br />
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
1 tbsp olive oil<br />
1 large onion, minced<br />
5 stalks celery, minced, leaves included<br />
2 small green bell peppers, minced<br />
1 tsp chili powder<br />
1 tsp ground cumin<br />
1 tsp granulated garlic<br />
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper<br />
1 6-ounce can tomato paste<br />
2 cups fresh, frozen, or canned corn, drained and thawed<br />
1 15-ounce can black beans, drained<br />
1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes<br />
3 cups chicken stock<br />
4 bone-in skinless chicken thighs<br />
3 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated<br />
salt and pepper, to taste<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and sautee the onion, celery, and bell peppers until softened, about 8 minutes. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, granulated garlic, and cayenne pepper and cook for another minute. Add the can of tomato paste and stir to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes. Add the contents of the skillet to the slow cooker along with the corn, black beans, crushed tomatoes, and chicken stock. Stir to combine. Nestle the chicken thighs in the mixture and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or high heat for 4-6 hours.<br />
<br />
Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred the meat with a fork, discard the bone. Add the shredded meat back into the slow cooker with the cheese. Stir to combine. Cook for another 20 minutes. Season to taste and serve.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
Sarah Cupcake originalSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-57534814638042943892012-10-03T09:19:00.000-07:002012-10-03T09:19:14.273-07:00Creme Brulee Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ-MNCDR0sINrzSSl1SqK7UlLsP9T-xPWzfp76afKuqiOALl-TJbMnslwJp-zU0bes3SNJjBKJMcPJuA8DmBRfmSNv67ccrArXA8Kvs73Q7FZBm3uSs2nU3COK5hvVym0r9wul14ugpuA/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ-MNCDR0sINrzSSl1SqK7UlLsP9T-xPWzfp76afKuqiOALl-TJbMnslwJp-zU0bes3SNJjBKJMcPJuA8DmBRfmSNv67ccrArXA8Kvs73Q7FZBm3uSs2nU3COK5hvVym0r9wul14ugpuA/s640/026.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7PDcr4t04aXzqPmmc2KeWHCMd5h4WKKt-DckwYung9s0IzqSQHSgfpFHxc3OMzZ8ZiRv7t_D4nua7Kzq8vvh8MIPxhkUvCnnYuQRLZDyqVrMVJIXdAx4zZ3DH-7MpW6RCxEvD9HhUfM/s1600/033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7PDcr4t04aXzqPmmc2KeWHCMd5h4WKKt-DckwYung9s0IzqSQHSgfpFHxc3OMzZ8ZiRv7t_D4nua7Kzq8vvh8MIPxhkUvCnnYuQRLZDyqVrMVJIXdAx4zZ3DH-7MpW6RCxEvD9HhUfM/s640/033.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39bAk8fGi49NynK7o2058CsZTmu8W2F6oXS3DxnE9Y5w87vUPSXlMCQQeK8tsDKMOW9YZ-ZnDomFRcl5yOkXFMWCTsSCeHVlW9y8DcehxI-9FnGJDueLTCYCfJBlkFrSuNMkuPiccums/s1600/040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39bAk8fGi49NynK7o2058CsZTmu8W2F6oXS3DxnE9Y5w87vUPSXlMCQQeK8tsDKMOW9YZ-ZnDomFRcl5yOkXFMWCTsSCeHVlW9y8DcehxI-9FnGJDueLTCYCfJBlkFrSuNMkuPiccums/s640/040.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4Zxg0nqcUok77XlOwwjvDYaa4ZzC3c3v7yJ2bRj_KOPqhvQ5tPWPm-_Enj1_ErbsSKGDJ_AH7qRzQ7LwWDF7ZyKOeTsBY97ulIkUTofutKW7e_4wXc3NvoAkPLKnNT5odyOfFWjCulE/s1600/051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn4Zxg0nqcUok77XlOwwjvDYaa4ZzC3c3v7yJ2bRj_KOPqhvQ5tPWPm-_Enj1_ErbsSKGDJ_AH7qRzQ7LwWDF7ZyKOeTsBY97ulIkUTofutKW7e_4wXc3NvoAkPLKnNT5odyOfFWjCulE/s640/051.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I love this idea! Creme brulee in a cupcake!? These are the perfect sweet custardy caramelized vanilla treat to have during the fall/winter season. I love that there's no need for frosting because these are filled with creme brulee after the cupcakes are baked. If plain vanilla isn't your thing you can make any cupcake flavor you like! What about chocolate or pumpkin? I almost went there myself, but I wanted to use up a vanilla bean I bought forever ago. And they were fuh-reak-ing amazing! As you can see, I couldn't get the custard part of the cupcake to brown under the broiler because it's super moist compared to the cupcake. But, seriously, who cares?! For the purposes of deliciousness, these were perfect.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Creme Brulee Cupcakes</u></span><br />
<i>Yield: 12 cupcakes</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
<i>For the vanilla bean cupcakes:</i><br />
1 1/2 cups cake flour<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean<br />
1/2 cup (8 tbsp) unsalted butter, at room temp<br />
1 cups sugar<br />
2 large eggs<br />
2/3 cups buttermilk<br />
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract<i><br /></i><br />
<i>For the vanilla custard filling:</i><br />
1 1/2 cups whole milk<br />
seeds from 1/2 vanilla bean + pod<br />
4 large egg yolks<br />
1/3 cup sugar<br />
3 tbsp cornstarch<br />
pinch salt<br />
1/2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened<br />
<div style="font-style: italic;">
<br /></div>
<i>For the bruleed topping:</i><br />
4 tbsp raw sugar<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
To make the cupcakes: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 12 cup muffin pan with paper liners. Set aside.<br />
<br />
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cake flour, baking powder and salt. Whisk together and set aside. Add the butter to the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Scrape the vanilla bean seeds into the bowl of the mixer with the butter (reserve the other half of the seeds and pod for the custard). Beat on medium-high speed for 3 minutes, until light and creamy in color. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and beat for one more minute.<br />
<br />
Add the sugar to the butter mixture and beat for another 4 minutes. Mix in the eggs one at a time until incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl after each addition. Combine the buttermilk and the vanilla extract in a liquid measuring cup. With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients alternately with the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients and mixing just until incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix for 15 seconds longer.<br />
<br />
Divide the batter between the prepared paper liners, filling each about 3/4 of the way full. Bake 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.<br />
<br />
Once cool, use a knife to cut a large cone out of each cupcake, leaving at least 3/4" border at the sides and bottom (don't cut all the way through to the bottom). Save the scraps for cake pops or snacking.<br />
<br />
Make the vanilla custard: Heat milk, vanilla seeds, and pod in a heavy saucepan over moderate heat until hot but not boiling. Remove vanilla pod, discard,<br />
<br />
While milk heats, whisk together yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a heatproof bowl until smooth. Add 1 cup hot milk to yolk mixture in a stream, whisking, then add remaining milk, whisking constantly. Transfer mixture to saucepan and cook over moderately low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and registers 170 degrees F on a candy thermometer, 6 to 10 minutes (do not boil).<br />
<br />
Immediately force custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl and stir in butter. Scoop or pour enough custard into each hollowed out cupcake to fill almost to the top. Refrigerate cupcakes for at least two hours.<br />
<br />
To brulee the cupcakes: Preheat the broiler and place an oven rack 1/3 of the way down from the top of the oven. Sprinkle each cupcake with 1 tsp of the raw sugar and arrange on a baking sheet. Place the cupcakes under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the sugar is browned and bubbly, watching to make sure you don't burn the sugar (alternatively, use a kitchen torch). Remove and eat.<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
inspired by <a href="http://bakeitinacake.com/recipes/cremebruleecupcakes">Bake it in a Cake</a>, cupcake recipe adapted from <a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/2010/01/05/vanilla-bean-cupcakes/">Annie's Eats</a>, custard recipe heavily adapted from <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Vanilla-Custard-231672">Epicurious</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-90574509711300174242012-10-03T08:27:00.002-07:002012-10-03T08:27:45.063-07:00What I Ate Wednesday<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqmYBzsu2RhnpCGenIMYsJ_M5XclIO02dhR9dSVgldYaI1J1O8clfp3iTLOCeoKBu8wBaR57acpYxnhb7gz2TesS5x-rpId9wiJ9i0t_7IcaGx9mp5EoLK_szVBQrkRkLubHJuFbs-MF1/s1600/wiaw+fall+into+good+habits+button.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
No matter which way I put it, these pictures did not come out pretty today. It's cold and rainy yet again (I feel like I've been saying this for the past three WIAW!?), and this is my least favorite kind of weather for my favorite kind of fall day. As I'm writing this now, I'm thinking about revising my resume and cover letter, going to the gym, picking Riley up at pre-school, showering, and heading off to a networking dinner. But I'd rather stay at my kitchen table on my laptop listening to the rain and my Woodwick candle. Total sadface. But on to the WIAW - my goals have been to stay under 1800 calories a day and to cook more healthy food. Healthy black bean and sweet potato flautas? Check! Alright, here's my day of (over)eats:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRw-Od-mXdArWtVvMwN-6bjxoRifwB73LTIXr53__Tppa6MSN7X24BuLCRwfAbn5_Z09NhlTdHafwGnuIsv27rfpqkxZWrSvC112HtH2ShYJiUaP8gWPKt5-n-g_NR8hSvAJfwjxlYW_A/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRw-Od-mXdArWtVvMwN-6bjxoRifwB73LTIXr53__Tppa6MSN7X24BuLCRwfAbn5_Z09NhlTdHafwGnuIsv27rfpqkxZWrSvC112HtH2ShYJiUaP8gWPKt5-n-g_NR8hSvAJfwjxlYW_A/s640/006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>BREAKFAST</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Warning: writing in fragments. Woke up at 8 a.m. Had fake pumpkin spice cappuccino, leftover flauta filling, and banana. Took Riley to pre-school with real pumpkin coffee.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYnDjJLP4HSMnJqj01E7DXo-MWF2rR4MdpVEu9FadwIYPfPZ8iWwFjF1fsAUjLkEr7pbHIx37Q6IC6lV3PMRvJjfuCKmbHqAfVRmI-gzRS2YDasgujpOWlG6meH2mIhuqkoKam0159nxI/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYnDjJLP4HSMnJqj01E7DXo-MWF2rR4MdpVEu9FadwIYPfPZ8iWwFjF1fsAUjLkEr7pbHIx37Q6IC6lV3PMRvJjfuCKmbHqAfVRmI-gzRS2YDasgujpOWlG6meH2mIhuqkoKam0159nxI/s640/016.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>LUNCH</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Made seven healthy black bean and sweet potato flautas. At five of them plus half an avocado. Large glass of ice water w/lemon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>AFTERNOON</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Revised resumes, bought special resume paper, got Riley, bought honey crisp apples at a farm stand on way home. Drank more lemon water.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8WrISfiX2MSy4n7XbUOdGnBfvBOe2rrQXhEHCHyTHG8BAtq2uKIQnIeAXHfP6h-HYzsYyDH9ArHjX2IGYIbUhKLfnCUC0DR-S4TaRVgkjn-sFy5lH0MyAQljHo_1wtw_Wa3arzG0zNcU/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8WrISfiX2MSy4n7XbUOdGnBfvBOe2rrQXhEHCHyTHG8BAtq2uKIQnIeAXHfP6h-HYzsYyDH9ArHjX2IGYIbUhKLfnCUC0DR-S4TaRVgkjn-sFy5lH0MyAQljHo_1wtw_Wa3arzG0zNcU/s640/003.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>DINNER</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Babysitter canceled, no networking dinner. Dinner was frozen green beans w/spaetzel (OMG YUM).<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXO-S1_KjF8pMG904Ph9eUmMdRxcpP0UtPY0kXxyDTZOnaAm8Q82FuZsR5Bu48jsirUw8MumLQxktlWWwcBlfcZWxyTZkrEbZ0Q5yMm0aIeFpkFwKvFnvI3NZxG8WgoCDockaIwFJo55M/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXO-S1_KjF8pMG904Ph9eUmMdRxcpP0UtPY0kXxyDTZOnaAm8Q82FuZsR5Bu48jsirUw8MumLQxktlWWwcBlfcZWxyTZkrEbZ0Q5yMm0aIeFpkFwKvFnvI3NZxG8WgoCDockaIwFJo55M/s640/018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>SNACK</b><br />
At one of the apples I bought (sooo good) plus Tazo chai with milk and stevia. May or may not have eaten a bowl of peanut butter cup ice cream before bed. G'night. =D</div>
</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-63757636090162575882012-10-01T06:35:00.001-07:002012-10-01T06:35:46.690-07:00Luscious Oven-Braised Short Ribs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDAKifEmbSHoLGw2GvCCQdfSqEBZKTT_Dv0pD9cFz0Yg2_FtGP7cRlbzElyYPqcPOVpZ1E-1bpy8c14q0dT9g6X1crSy4AqFNPsvkAUroX8JD6cQgXJbmL6iys7aqOV5hpDn26FMyCm8/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDAKifEmbSHoLGw2GvCCQdfSqEBZKTT_Dv0pD9cFz0Yg2_FtGP7cRlbzElyYPqcPOVpZ1E-1bpy8c14q0dT9g6X1crSy4AqFNPsvkAUroX8JD6cQgXJbmL6iys7aqOV5hpDn26FMyCm8/s640/005.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPXkVbcs1Ue8cl6dYJ1NhdUUlf18Nyy-h3v_XectEbvjOlz4-F2jFbe9I0N5hdituu5Vxw2zsmy_tfMhZeyZNvnFrrMCB_QL9ZSUAuNLODbvyLppazNKK29Z8PVDKONkOf-Ws3pJ6-CMs/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPXkVbcs1Ue8cl6dYJ1NhdUUlf18Nyy-h3v_XectEbvjOlz4-F2jFbe9I0N5hdituu5Vxw2zsmy_tfMhZeyZNvnFrrMCB_QL9ZSUAuNLODbvyLppazNKK29Z8PVDKONkOf-Ws3pJ6-CMs/s640/008.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I made these delicious short ribs for dinner the other night. They came out exactly like I wanted, they were fall off the bone tender and all the fat melted off. The glaze is made with red wine, soy sauce, thyme, and a bunch of caramelized vegetables. I love recipes like this that are so easy to put together and throw in the oven. I won't make this all the time because it's not the healthiest meal, but it's definitely worth it for a special occasion. I made mashed potatoes to go with this, but you could also add some chopped potatoes to the pan in the last 45 minutes of cooking. Next time short ribs are on sale, I'll be making this again.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Luscious Oven-Braised Short Ribs</u></span><br />
<i>Yield: 8 servings</i><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><br /></u></span>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
1 cup red wine<br />
3 tbsp tomato paste<br />
1/2 cup soy sauce<br />
1 tbsp sugar<br />
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper<br />
2 onions, finely sliced<br />
4 garlic cloves, smashed<br />
1 carrot, finely chopped<br />
1 stalk celery, finely chopped<br />
4 sprigs of fresh thyme, or 1 tsp dried thyme<br />
3 1/2 pounds short ribs<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
In a large oven-safe roasting pan with a tight fitting lid, whisk together the wine, tomato paste, and soy sauce. Mix in the rest of the ingredients, turning the ribs so they become coated with the marinade. The meat should fit comfortably in a single layer in the pan. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for 6 hours or up to overnight. Occasionally turn the meat over in the marinade. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes prior to cooking.<br />
<br />
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Cover and braise the short ribs for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, reducing the heat to 350 degrees F after an hour. Turn the ribs over. Add water to the pan if too much liquid evaporates. Remove the lid in the last 45 minutes of cooking. You want to end up with glistening ribs in a reduced glaze.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
adapted from Mad Hungry via <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/285448/luscious-oven-braised-short-ribs">Martha Stewart</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-25585931694758968882012-09-27T12:27:00.000-07:002012-09-30T16:51:05.009-07:00Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qJ6TfR9t1MasGp2rK2N4sag6eb51SYLwsIeETcXpD3YgMzVFRWgO4cWl2Cr8IdZpO3T_m0XE1xVEC0GU9X0Gfns0KdZJ91e9iZeEOHjQ0xjH719hqTmAzhQopYzIbeo9hb8JOE3rLD4/s1600/nice3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-qJ6TfR9t1MasGp2rK2N4sag6eb51SYLwsIeETcXpD3YgMzVFRWgO4cWl2Cr8IdZpO3T_m0XE1xVEC0GU9X0Gfns0KdZJ91e9iZeEOHjQ0xjH719hqTmAzhQopYzIbeo9hb8JOE3rLD4/s640/nice3.jpg" width="474" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCZPIwFRwGgEQr8K_USXNI2TLzirACopAVBadr6AVLt6rUy00vQ19cptw4VTVMGextRi33qNXFrEUhRF0fxVMEcjMTz33CVrmuL9ZuajPkrlNzrSb3SAlQEegIVzDHGei9Msl0sVjBKXc/s1600/cute.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCZPIwFRwGgEQr8K_USXNI2TLzirACopAVBadr6AVLt6rUy00vQ19cptw4VTVMGextRi33qNXFrEUhRF0fxVMEcjMTz33CVrmuL9ZuajPkrlNzrSb3SAlQEegIVzDHGei9Msl0sVjBKXc/s640/cute.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I can't even describe the deliciousness that are these cupcakes. I've made two different pumpkin cheesecakes before, and neither of them even come close to these minis. I'm pretty sure the perfect plain cheesecake infused with pumpkin and spice swirls that explode in your mouth, breaking up the delicious creaminess, is the way too go. Ok, I'm getting way too descriptive here, but I'm super enthusiastic about fall and pumpkin! I don't have to convince anyone to make these because I know cheesecake, pumpkin, and cupcake alone are enough to make people flock. From now on, I'm going to make these for every fall get together and holiday. They're definitely a new staple.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQau3NXaH8qHpki_vv1NegNi_UEd7w9a3b7ES9Po9qHfNXzzrT-dtN2ldCfxx3imKFxz4mX6aeIzIbR10cbj0rKYURA6iWeJJU5OupEdXUQ7sLxodpodpC6k2I5Lyoh_L9wH0ov5Puu_M/s1600/new.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQau3NXaH8qHpki_vv1NegNi_UEd7w9a3b7ES9Po9qHfNXzzrT-dtN2ldCfxx3imKFxz4mX6aeIzIbR10cbj0rKYURA6iWeJJU5OupEdXUQ7sLxodpodpC6k2I5Lyoh_L9wH0ov5Puu_M/s640/new.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Cupcakes</u></span><br />
<i>yield: 12 mini cheesecakes</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
<i>For the crust:</i><br />
7 graham cracker sheets (or equivalent in gingersnaps)<br />
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
2 tbsp sugar<br />
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted<br />
<br />
<i>For the cheesecake:</i><br />
16 ounces cream cheese, softened<br />
2/3 cup sugar<br />
2 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
2 large eggs<br />
1/2 cup sour cream<br />
<br />
<i>For the pumpkin swirl:</i><br />
1/3 cup pumpkin puree<br />
1 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp ground ginger<br />
1/8 tsp ground allspice<br />
2 tbsp all purpose flour<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners (double them up if using paper liners).<br />
<br />
To make the crust: in a food processor, grind up the graham cracker sheets into fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, place the graham crackers in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Place the graham cracker crumbs in a bowl, and stir in the ground cinnamon and sugar. Add the melted butter and mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.<br />
<br />
Put about one tablespoon of the graham cracker crumb mixture in the bottom of each cupcake liner. Press down the crumbs with your hand. Set aside.<br />
<br />
To make the cheesecake: in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (a handheld mixer works fine, too) mix the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes. The cream cheese should be smooth without any lumps. Add in the sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.<br />
<br />
Turn the mixer to low speed and add the eggs, one at a time, mixing until completely incorporated. Use a spatula to scrap down the sides of the bowl and fully incorporate the ingredients. Add the sour cream and beat until the cheesecake mixture is smooth.<br />
<br />
To make the pumpkin swirl: in a medium bowl mix together the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, ground allspice, and flour. Add 2/3 cup of the cheesecake mixture to the pumpkin mixture. Stir with a spatula until the two batters are completely combined and there are no lumps.<br />
<br />
Divide half the plain cheesecake batter evenly between the muffins tins. Scoop about one tablespoon of the pumpkin mixture on top and cover with the remaining cheesecake batter. Each cupcake liner should be filled almost to the top. Place three 1/4 teaspoon dots of pumpkin batter onto each of the cheesecakes. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the batter into a pretty design.<br />
<br />
Bake for 27-30 minutes, rotating the pan half way through the baking time. Once the cheesecakes are done baking, cool them completely in the refrigerator overnight (keep them in the cupcake baking pan). Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
slightly adapted from <a href="http://gingerbreadbagels.com/2010/10/25/mini-pumpkin-swirl-cheesecakes/">Gingerbread Bagels</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-19796462644446159822012-09-26T10:19:00.000-07:002012-09-26T10:19:24.849-07:00Chocolate Crack Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8f1nZJfY0K15k1rGBW1kctFTyKR4BL95SllhpVwQiNbKZWUXRkMY1f_Mtkt_DX-w1FvN_uMgzVXkLx4rdrn9ltrQoIFsF7KjawjFtRXV9G94y7SIofjSWf5a18zgxadAAPDqaQagUuBc/s1600/good.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8f1nZJfY0K15k1rGBW1kctFTyKR4BL95SllhpVwQiNbKZWUXRkMY1f_Mtkt_DX-w1FvN_uMgzVXkLx4rdrn9ltrQoIFsF7KjawjFtRXV9G94y7SIofjSWf5a18zgxadAAPDqaQagUuBc/s640/good.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWXTnALLJAaSdduMr0aukPXnIYxFyXlvohklb5gew3tD07nSxu8x6S92GVKlR4oa-eYlZv9XUQvkrpQAdd-rkLKuvVoFLOy5ZtJl41iDCxH2RfX4DmpBoowyjQOYywfHar5X8zA9sy6w/s1600/wow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWXTnALLJAaSdduMr0aukPXnIYxFyXlvohklb5gew3tD07nSxu8x6S92GVKlR4oa-eYlZv9XUQvkrpQAdd-rkLKuvVoFLOy5ZtJl41iDCxH2RfX4DmpBoowyjQOYywfHar5X8zA9sy6w/s640/wow.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQVhmqE0N4BXVHqQcEZJ3iBwP1UUttJPbR-bIf3gZXi44gffka0pkyfMdA3uPJ-ml4L8rtoVqrbH5a-KMT18VsT4wW5gA10N2tbXJMvJdI_KvdciZ0w8p6C0RXLtEs35Xu6oNs9FhEa4/s1600/yummy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQVhmqE0N4BXVHqQcEZJ3iBwP1UUttJPbR-bIf3gZXi44gffka0pkyfMdA3uPJ-ml4L8rtoVqrbH5a-KMT18VsT4wW5gA10N2tbXJMvJdI_KvdciZ0w8p6C0RXLtEs35Xu6oNs9FhEa4/s640/yummy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I know I'm supposed to be cooking for fall right now, but these came out looking really snowy and Christmasy. I want to wrap them in a Christmas gift box and give them out. They're super chewy on the inside, almost like a brownie thanks to a ton of melted chocolate and almond flour. I love baking so much that sometimes I forget I'm on a diet and bake whatever I want anyways, without thinking about the consequences. Last night I actually got giddy because I pulled out an old Christmas magazine and inside found about ten different recipes I've been looking for that I'd printed out and made two years ago for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I'm really looking forward to making some healthier fall recipes, though, so if anyone has ideas please comment and let me know what you like to make around this time that's delicious and healthy.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Chocolate Crack Cookies</u></span><br />
<i>yield: about 24 cookies</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate<br />
4 tbsp unsalted butter<br />
1 cup almond flour<br />
1/2 cup all-purpose flour<br />
1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
2 large eggs<br />
2/3 cup granulated sugar<br />
granulated sugar and powdered sugar, for rolling<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
In a large microwave safe bowl, heat the chocolate and butter in 30 seconds intervals until completely melted. Set aside. In a separate bowl whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.<br />
<br />
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat together the eggs and sugar on high speed until the mixture is tripled in size and forms a ribbon, about 5 minutes. Fold in the chocolate-butter mixture with a rubber spatula. Stir in the flour mixture just until combined. Cover and chill for 1-2 hours.<br />
<br />
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line two baking trays with parchment paper. Add about 1 cup (no need to measure) granulated sugar and powdered sugar to two separate bowls. Remove the cookie dough from the fridge and roll into 24 balls about 1" in diameter.<br />
<br />
Roll the balls first in the granulated sugar and then in the powdered sugar. Place them about 1" apart on the cookie sheets. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until just set around the edges. Cool completely on the baking sheets before removing to wire racks.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
adapted from David Lebovitz's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ready-Dessert-My-Best-Recipes/dp/158008138X">Ready for Dessert</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-29597288393223311612012-09-26T07:33:00.001-07:002012-09-26T07:33:41.027-07:00What I Ate Wednesday<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqmYBzsu2RhnpCGenIMYsJ_M5XclIO02dhR9dSVgldYaI1J1O8clfp3iTLOCeoKBu8wBaR57acpYxnhb7gz2TesS5x-rpId9wiJ9i0t_7IcaGx9mp5EoLK_szVBQrkRkLubHJuFbs-MF1/s1600/wiaw+fall+into+good+habits+button.jpg" /></a><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey everyone! Welcome to my fourth WIAW! Since my goals are to cook healthier food and stay under 1800 calories a day, I calculated and broke down the calorie counts for everything today. I didn't do so well and I really didn't want to post my failure on here, but in the end I realized that it might help me out in the future to see this. I hope this helps some other people out there trying to lose weight, also. What I've realized over the past few months is that I way under estimate my calories and portion sizes! When I try to eat 1200 calories a day (and actually measure out food, etc) I feel like I'm being starved! I'm trying to bulk up all my food with fruits and veggies to feel more satisfied at the end of the day. I'm also getting outside more to exercise since it's absolutely beautiful! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>BREAKFAST</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Wow, I totally goofed on breakfast today. I had a leftover skinless chicken thigh, sweet potatoes, onions, and mushrooms roasted with soy sauce and apple cider vinegar from last night. I totally forgot to pull out my camera and snap a photo! I usually eat breakfast food, but for some reason I was just craving something different today. I also had a coffee with pumpkin spice powder, stevia, and half and half. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Food/</u><u>Calories</u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>1 boneless, skinless chicken thigh </i><b>82</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>1/2 sweet potato </i><b>80</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>1/2 onion </i><b>20</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>4 mushrooms </i><b>20</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>1 tbsp pumpkin spice powder </i><b>50</b><i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>2 packets stevia </i><b>0</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>6 tbsp half and half </i><b>120</b><br />
<b>BREAKFAST TOTAL = 372</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SNACK</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSDJ-89uQyyyBUYTM85P0Nyxw_HOofUVda7lfJUx_socQrTXkZzlgs4LPD7S3SqtnZfybYcR0x0SOWY-pgTxZjxpuQDTSNeT7zw19TSvvyWgOVG7NxKaisfCkeS-0le19JanDfwbt_r0/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimSDJ-89uQyyyBUYTM85P0Nyxw_HOofUVda7lfJUx_socQrTXkZzlgs4LPD7S3SqtnZfybYcR0x0SOWY-pgTxZjxpuQDTSNeT7zw19TSvvyWgOVG7NxKaisfCkeS-0le19JanDfwbt_r0/s640/005.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div>
<u>Food/</u><u>Calories</u></div>
<div>
<i>1 large banana </i><b>145</b></div>
<div>
<i>1 tbsp pumpkin spice powder </i><b>50</b><i> </i></div>
<div>
<i>2 packets stevia </i><b>0</b></div>
<div>
<i>6 tbsp half and half </i><b>120</b><br />
<b>SNACK TOTAL = 315 </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>LUNCH</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNFeEsWNV0o2W3XqeNSFSyrvtV2pgnub8JzteUZWhwMECyottwlcQ8EdstKnyeUQf4iDFWlKbMmM8NhdmAO40nFlEs7Jl0Tpzvzs31WLdzPfgs7sF6yhbXNDjrl9XIvRxv5XvptnrNAV4/s1600/018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNFeEsWNV0o2W3XqeNSFSyrvtV2pgnub8JzteUZWhwMECyottwlcQ8EdstKnyeUQf4iDFWlKbMmM8NhdmAO40nFlEs7Jl0Tpzvzs31WLdzPfgs7sF6yhbXNDjrl9XIvRxv5XvptnrNAV4/s640/018.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wanted to be super healthy for lunch and save some calories. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div>
<u>Food/</u><u>Calories</u></div>
<div>
<i>1 large sweet potato w/lemon </i><b>182</b></div>
<div>
<i>1/3 cup tabbouleh </i><b>100</b><i> </i></div>
<div>
<i>Diet Pepsi </i><b>0</b></div>
<div>
<b>LUNCH TOTAL = 282</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SNACK</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBEWaHMxRf-np-YsjxGSqIQCETpnr7IG3-sFxvjRla55HXsVwMEviJrmfDlBRxXycGB-mOKvWqyAS-cWT4EnlQvgd6RYu-a45WIaERnLWx0E-y_7pj8U-dxg4pm18qrSNUj-Hhsp1ChI/s1600/041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBEWaHMxRf-np-YsjxGSqIQCETpnr7IG3-sFxvjRla55HXsVwMEviJrmfDlBRxXycGB-mOKvWqyAS-cWT4EnlQvgd6RYu-a45WIaERnLWx0E-y_7pj8U-dxg4pm18qrSNUj-Hhsp1ChI/s640/041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div>
<u>Food/</u><u>Calories</u></div>
<div>
<i>Snack Sized Almond Joy </i><b>80</b></div>
<div>
<b>SNACK TOTAL = 80</b></div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>DINNER</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwiy1g9FMVG3Dx2b17KNl0F2HPxu-bPzkb0czvDC6V3q_7WTy0w_IloAEjCtTLllftzDeVjZh9ZbvEBxlB6GnN8tHuVTt6ytVhBdcurvFzVSp7acNfMip_P5rzXY2F29cpS8dOaOsGYg/s1600/030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOwiy1g9FMVG3Dx2b17KNl0F2HPxu-bPzkb0czvDC6V3q_7WTy0w_IloAEjCtTLllftzDeVjZh9ZbvEBxlB6GnN8tHuVTt6ytVhBdcurvFzVSp7acNfMip_P5rzXY2F29cpS8dOaOsGYg/s640/030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
By dinner I'd already eaten 1,049 calories which wouldn't have left me a lot of calories if I was trying to stick between 1200 and 1500! Luckily, I'm aiming for something more realistic for me: 1800 (for now, anyways!). As long as I get to the gym for a good amount of cardio, I know I'll still lose weight. I made a variation on steak pizzaiola using mushrooms, onions, and chuck eye steaks. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Food/Calories</u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>1/3 pound (5 ounce) chuck eye steak </i><b>250</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>1/3 can (9 ounces) diced tomatoes </i><b>50</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>1/3 large onion </i><b>20</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>2 mushrooms </i><b>10</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>2 cups baby lettuce </i><b>15</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>1 tbsp olive oil </i><b>120</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>DINNER TOTAL = 465</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>DESSERT</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8J1Dwbn-J23GZd34jLz1y60QaAy0q9DrE27itv5sGs1xhM1Ss7CYcfZ80W11pjjUcTUVhWPRW6aIWBb-KRkhoS8nNKzRMmmnI6LQ6oMqpzjw-ubDiQG12pXISmsGuTRSFOGb2yeI2bs/s1600/034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8J1Dwbn-J23GZd34jLz1y60QaAy0q9DrE27itv5sGs1xhM1Ss7CYcfZ80W11pjjUcTUVhWPRW6aIWBb-KRkhoS8nNKzRMmmnI6LQ6oMqpzjw-ubDiQG12pXISmsGuTRSFOGb2yeI2bs/s640/034.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I couldn't resist making these amazing chocolate crack cookies from David Lebovitz for dessert. And then I did what I swore I wouldn't and ate 6 of them throughout the next few hours!!! So much for my diet today... (Now you see exactly why I need to lose weight!).<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<u>Food/Calories</u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>6 chocolate crack cookies </i><b>800</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>DESSERT TOTAL = 800</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>CALORIES TODAY</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, my grand total calorie count came out to <b>2,314 calories</b>. Yikes! So, this is totally real life people. I didn't leave anything out to make myself look better. I didn't stay within my goal. Reflecting back, though, it's pretty easy to look at what I ate and see where I could have done better. Simply put, if I just didn't eat 6 cookies I would have cut out 800 calories. Next time I should just resist the urge to make them in the first place. I promise next week is going to look a lot different!</div>
</div>
</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-11017839090615882232012-09-21T05:53:00.000-07:002012-09-21T05:53:54.286-07:00Black Bean and Avocado Stuffed Sweet Potatoes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0yLWPOu5xyIjcVYWp54-bMu-3MjsgGrnwwy7plqV-T5JUcSo43PWMxriOIC90_Yrv-SQLOLhNXbpOv1QFh98m6GpJsQKa5qwuySAFXQiPwVSfes3r7JblUtP0gPb4-rRltCcIxip_970/s1600/good3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0yLWPOu5xyIjcVYWp54-bMu-3MjsgGrnwwy7plqV-T5JUcSo43PWMxriOIC90_Yrv-SQLOLhNXbpOv1QFh98m6GpJsQKa5qwuySAFXQiPwVSfes3r7JblUtP0gPb4-rRltCcIxip_970/s640/good3.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Mmmm... these are ridiculously good. They're my new food craving. Buy a few sweet potatoes, bake or microwave them, and top them with black beans, guacamole, and cheese! It might seem like a strange combination, but it's super healthy and actually delicious all together. I was inspired to make these by Peas and Crayons and her crazy good looking <a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/2012/04/recipe-quickie-spicy-savory-sweet.html">sweet potatoes</a> (how amazing do those look!?). I made mine into a "recipe" but it's really just an idea. You could fill these babies with anything for a super healthy fall lunch. =D<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Black Bean and Guacamole Stuffed Sweet Potatoes</u></span><br />
<i>yield: 1 serving</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
1 sweet potato<br />
1/4 cup black beans, rinsed<br />
1 lime<br />
1/2 avocado<br />
1/2 tsp garlic powder<br />
1/2 ounce sharp cheddar cheese, grated<br />
salt, to taste<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Poke the sweet potato all over with a fork and microwave until soft (or use the oven). Slit a hole down the middle and open up the potato. Fill with the black beans and microwave for another 30 seconds. Squeeze some lime juice over top and sprinkle with salt. In a separate bowl mash the avocado, garlic powder, more lime juice, and salt. Scoop on top of the potato and top with cheddar cheese. Enjoy!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
inspired by <a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/2012/04/recipe-quickie-spicy-savory-sweet.html">Peas and Crayons</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-19253255392683918782012-09-20T10:03:00.000-07:002012-09-20T10:03:57.465-07:00Banana Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZMxDLIcB6rjk0DJBM0t7Gqh1YYchB8cvqJFfVHP6KVVWIRpZWPrDrX_NrKv8z36TvwtAq002mEqls6Qv-AD8Mj8QeEMf4IOyMGNOigMKeqLEunX-U12Wmv7k-iyEyWEBEPXSaj8qYac/s1600/darkish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZMxDLIcB6rjk0DJBM0t7Gqh1YYchB8cvqJFfVHP6KVVWIRpZWPrDrX_NrKv8z36TvwtAq002mEqls6Qv-AD8Mj8QeEMf4IOyMGNOigMKeqLEunX-U12Wmv7k-iyEyWEBEPXSaj8qYac/s640/darkish.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGr1JBgFQvLollShUvNTVOjHGNMY8ypjZWuH6O-a7zT8O6LNsrLwIXgauxSuMqxo9rsEybGITZpIXzI6z6bgQN9Tf3xlShpNYE6l3UDWYgH9FDH8PjiZllh-7XYcKmD2keXVUs3C52Tkc/s1600/eh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGr1JBgFQvLollShUvNTVOjHGNMY8ypjZWuH6O-a7zT8O6LNsrLwIXgauxSuMqxo9rsEybGITZpIXzI6z6bgQN9Tf3xlShpNYE6l3UDWYgH9FDH8PjiZllh-7XYcKmD2keXVUs3C52Tkc/s640/eh.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1heqEBTxUmv9ELoqKudGGU1eVfQRN71OfWs1AUOemQFfG6kTWNZkGpQ2DmK-06kasKshDDpk-8Y2gF3Kzd_Kv8keknVdwOm3vKeh13YCC7rML4oQwB56LuUjM7t4vc0Gb-DwRYvVbg4/s1600/nice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1heqEBTxUmv9ELoqKudGGU1eVfQRN71OfWs1AUOemQFfG6kTWNZkGpQ2DmK-06kasKshDDpk-8Y2gF3Kzd_Kv8keknVdwOm3vKeh13YCC7rML4oQwB56LuUjM7t4vc0Gb-DwRYvVbg4/s640/nice.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
You need to have these muffins in your life, period. If there was ever a muffin recipe that I'd make over and over, health not involved, it would be these. They taste like a cross between banana bread and chocolate chip cookies <i>and</i> they're filled with cream cheese. There's not much more to say about these, they're just awesome! Let's just also take a minute here to talk about some things that I'm finding important lately:<br />
<br />
1. The <a href="http://www.thebige.com/fair/">Big E</a><br />
2. RN job application madness!<br />
3. Spinning and random <a href="http://civilizedcavemancooking.com/crockpot/crock-pot-hot-wings/">paleo recipes</a><br />
4. King Arthur Flour <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/visit/store.html">Company store</a> up in Vermont (this WILL be happening soon)<br />
<br />
Ok. I feel purged. These are all on my mind like crazy lately!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Banana Chocolate Chip Cream Cheese Muffins</u></span><br />
<i>yield: 12 muffins</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
<i>For the cream cheese filling:</i><br />
4 ounces cream cheese, at room temp<br />
2 tbsp powdered sugar<br />
1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract<br />
<b><br /></b>
<i>For the banana chocolate chip muffins:</i><br />
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour<br />
2/3 cup sugar<br />
1 1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large)<br />
1 large egg<br />
1/2 cup (8 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted<br />
1/4 cup buttermilk<br />
3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips<br />
<div style="font-weight: bold;">
<br /></div>
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
To make the cream cheese filling: mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until combined. Scoop out onto a sheet of plastic wrap and form into a log about 1/2" in diameter. Wrap well and freeze until firm, about two hours.<br />
<br />
To make the muffins: preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line twelve muffin cups with foil muffin liners. Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in large bowl. Mix together the mashed bananas, egg, melted butter, and buttermilk in a separate bowl. Stir banana mixture into dry ingredients just until blended (do not overmix). Stir in chocolate chips.<br />
<br />
Take the cream cheese log out of the freezer and cut into 12 equal pieces. Divide half the muffin batter among prepared cups and place a cream cheese coin onto each. Cover with the rest of the batter. Bake muffins until tops are pale golden, about 32 minutes. Transfer muffins to rack; eat warm.<br />
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
muffin recipe adapted from <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Banana-Chocolate-Chip-Muffins-101020">Epicurious</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-90574767711893812052012-09-19T07:03:00.001-07:002012-09-19T07:03:59.219-07:00What I Ate Wednesday<center>
<a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqmYBzsu2RhnpCGenIMYsJ_M5XclIO02dhR9dSVgldYaI1J1O8clfp3iTLOCeoKBu8wBaR57acpYxnhb7gz2TesS5x-rpId9wiJ9i0t_7IcaGx9mp5EoLK_szVBQrkRkLubHJuFbs-MF1/s1600/wiaw+fall+into+good+habits+button.jpg" /></a></center>
<center>
<br /></center>
<center>
Two weeks ago I started my first What I Ate Wednesday. My goals were to make more healthy recipes and to eat under 1800 calories a day. So far, I've been doing pretty well (and I already lost a few pounds)! Today I ate some junk food, but I still stayed within my calorie goal, so it's all good!</center>
<center>
<br /></center>
<center>
<b>BREAKFAST </b></center>
<center>
<b><br /></b></center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMXqGFKOY_qyo0ZhoF0nXmLQiQWM9gnrJhatnoY6SONmCNs9xB7_aGjXB5GSzn_eJPH_EP10zHzuVH_t3V9HALACF4j3q2KPOjW544R-dg-T6KHKNBMNkS5fzVDsrMS2I0q_UGJfkTAws/s1600/010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMXqGFKOY_qyo0ZhoF0nXmLQiQWM9gnrJhatnoY6SONmCNs9xB7_aGjXB5GSzn_eJPH_EP10zHzuVH_t3V9HALACF4j3q2KPOjW544R-dg-T6KHKNBMNkS5fzVDsrMS2I0q_UGJfkTAws/s320/010.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqXMK7t1_jG_3BW5gN2BWFteZC4etskB4lvojV_MH6HcC3PGH8sPaeAEt7Bs9gnwRnDuiVg9nuRVxc5szF7uH3-DtaDftOyW6Qzgx8KIZEVkhgWjbPtogqqVY-XEvdLfpg55_ns8unLY/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfqXMK7t1_jG_3BW5gN2BWFteZC4etskB4lvojV_MH6HcC3PGH8sPaeAEt7Bs9gnwRnDuiVg9nuRVxc5szF7uH3-DtaDftOyW6Qzgx8KIZEVkhgWjbPtogqqVY-XEvdLfpg55_ns8unLY/s320/014.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Breakfast today was a big <b>smoothie</b> made with frozen blueberries, a banana, a peach, strawberries, old fashioned oats, and almond milk. I also made a <b>coffee</b> with my homemade pumpkin syrup, stevia, and half and half. </div>
<center>
<br /></center>
<center>
<b>LUNCH</b></center>
<center>
<b><br /></b></center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNE6fxBANZmfaZtLNPn_ZpU99SbAjLL5YnditQVrVCAcKMcoWrX9qYTHM1qf7h6NJQfBCIYsHJT7aWn8lal5iEwCYGBRKZDhneQkVuS8uRU_wwr6v6-rEY9icOM57Rxrgysvt_W3Fw62I/s1600/020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNE6fxBANZmfaZtLNPn_ZpU99SbAjLL5YnditQVrVCAcKMcoWrX9qYTHM1qf7h6NJQfBCIYsHJT7aWn8lal5iEwCYGBRKZDhneQkVuS8uRU_wwr6v6-rEY9icOM57Rxrgysvt_W3Fw62I/s640/020.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lunch was <b>corn</b> on the cob and <b>ham</b>. I sent out about 20 resumes today, so I feel really good about that! I didn't have time to make anything for lunch, so I just heated up these leftovers. </div>
<center>
<br /></center>
<center>
<b>SNACK</b></center>
<center>
<br /></center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-pqiCozcmeMs-Qd2XwN1YsN-EyqUzQ5_EpnNId3G28rxFhp3JI5ukr45GIfp_kfhYuTOYl6-FWx79-HL131gpQTw2LvQqAbCv968oTQKQ3cNqFG3fqdxrWVqLjAHZUeJy-EXXLgzPzw/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-pqiCozcmeMs-Qd2XwN1YsN-EyqUzQ5_EpnNId3G28rxFhp3JI5ukr45GIfp_kfhYuTOYl6-FWx79-HL131gpQTw2LvQqAbCv968oTQKQ3cNqFG3fqdxrWVqLjAHZUeJy-EXXLgzPzw/s320/028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSvuzZhHcoErREQKL7xxKjrg3g79i_IWrVN6F0kiWS508pt4K75qobwOAyV4XknvMLpZQ9uXZyuir4KDKv6bP4NdySFYnXEXbbXibp1sfncaE5ca-Twvs63eL7U9Y483gZYtcOvWmipjQ/s1600/027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSvuzZhHcoErREQKL7xxKjrg3g79i_IWrVN6F0kiWS508pt4K75qobwOAyV4XknvMLpZQ9uXZyuir4KDKv6bP4NdySFYnXEXbbXibp1sfncaE5ca-Twvs63eL7U9Y483gZYtcOvWmipjQ/s320/027.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKdY422xAywzVccBsqddV0AUOBTscQtzuyatK5-SgadDqwUHrxZJ9bichc1PJ1XIcoZulsXDH6FdgPnw9L1O9xRBo4BXi8JBG50kVVss9cSwHghZO_30qsMPLb1t1Mi7rpFGD7cfKcqLg/s1600/035.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKdY422xAywzVccBsqddV0AUOBTscQtzuyatK5-SgadDqwUHrxZJ9bichc1PJ1XIcoZulsXDH6FdgPnw9L1O9xRBo4BXi8JBG50kVVss9cSwHghZO_30qsMPLb1t1Mi7rpFGD7cfKcqLg/s320/035.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was really rainy out today, and I was feeling like the weather so I made some toasted<b> marshmallows</b> under the broiler and a <b>coffee </b>to cheer me up. I had some <b>strawberries</b>, too, just to even out all the sugar. </div>
<center>
<br /></center>
<center>
<b>DINNER</b></center>
<center>
<b><br /></b></center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2xoO6DSW6oct2iGX5ZQRzuGaZtmS9cpNodlIRHX2xWWgiLDWvTirly4hMGA2k3oVmT43LdoTWM5MKQO1qhxfAlx5lIKsTzYsec2oVz0qBFVcfNQssMyxamwNspFvp20cHl1V09PLayY/s1600/044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2xoO6DSW6oct2iGX5ZQRzuGaZtmS9cpNodlIRHX2xWWgiLDWvTirly4hMGA2k3oVmT43LdoTWM5MKQO1qhxfAlx5lIKsTzYsec2oVz0qBFVcfNQssMyxamwNspFvp20cHl1V09PLayY/s640/044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dinner was easy again:<b> peas</b>, <b>corn</b>, <b>strawberries</b>, and <b>chicken tenders</b>. As you can see, Diet Coke was involved. </div>
<center>
<b><br /></b></center>
<center>
<b>DESSERT</b></center>
<center>
<b><br /></b></center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0IHO1BU6CPmiJ2RKyYP8c13QiwN-agyczgpQiDjF6A6XiSNNyH7EKdWCTKDLE04aB_CT1-AR1DpIioqgnDAkpgmG0TI_YC5Pn9SgECepJ1c-1RG5WlF9lgyXtE3Rf73ilrKppW73NWo/s1600/068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0IHO1BU6CPmiJ2RKyYP8c13QiwN-agyczgpQiDjF6A6XiSNNyH7EKdWCTKDLE04aB_CT1-AR1DpIioqgnDAkpgmG0TI_YC5Pn9SgECepJ1c-1RG5WlF9lgyXtE3Rf73ilrKppW73NWo/s640/068.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For dessert I did something I never normally do: I ate 3 double stacked <b>Oreos</b>! Obviously, I love sugar so it's not that I don't normally eat dessert. But I NEVER buy packaged cookies (even though I love them). My sister brought these over. I had more toasted <b>marshmallows</b>, too. Then it was time to snuggle with Riley, watch a movie, and go to bed!</div>
<center>
<b><br /></b></center>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-91638820739252563412012-09-18T06:12:00.001-07:002012-09-18T06:12:15.932-07:00Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Brulee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisTOvcKctZGeMMoGv7DRBP0YFuyjMgBflEc69qZmzf_bovs3-ObJYmmw9tnr4ev9dlwBbPJrPTMJjvEfzDr7R0IdX_GU8syu7vYnKc13nQe0BNtmQwXK-v9yvVpcZis2wAriE5SsJ2jR4/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisTOvcKctZGeMMoGv7DRBP0YFuyjMgBflEc69qZmzf_bovs3-ObJYmmw9tnr4ev9dlwBbPJrPTMJjvEfzDr7R0IdX_GU8syu7vYnKc13nQe0BNtmQwXK-v9yvVpcZis2wAriE5SsJ2jR4/s640/014.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Oh how I love Pinterest. I find all sorts of stuff on there that I otherwise would never discover, like this bruleed oatmeal. I never would have thought to caramelize fruit on top of my oatmeal to make it extra-special on my own, but since I make oatmeal for Riley and myself a few times a week it's definitely a technique I'm going to use a lot from now on. I bruleed mine under the broiler, which didn't fully caramelize the strawberries, as you can see from the picture. If I had a kitchen torch it would probably work much better, but I'm happy with the broiler too. I think this technique would work the best on a large casserole dish of baked oatmeal since the effect would be much greater. Either way, it's a delicious spin on plain old oatmeal.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><br /></u></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Brûlée</u></span><br />
<i>yield: 2 servings</i><br />
<br />
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
1 cup water<br />
1 cup almond milk or regular milk<br />
pinch salt<br />
1 cup old fashioned oats<br />
2 tbsp light brown sugar<br />
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1/2 banana, sliced thinly<br />
3-4 strawberries, sliced thinly<br />
granulated sugar<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Combine the water, almond milk, salt, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has been absorbed. <br />
<br />
Divide oatmeal between two oven-safe serving bowls. Top with sliced bananas and strawberries in an even layer. Sprinkle the sliced fruit with granulated sugar in a thin layer – just enough to help the surface caramelize. Place the bowls directly under a preheated broiler and cook just until the sugar is browned and bubbly, keeping an eye on the fruit through the whole process. It shouldn't take more than about 30 seconds. Serve immediately.<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
inspired by <a href="http://www.annies-eats.com/2010/01/08/strawberry-banana-oatmeal-brulee-2/">Annie's Eats</a> and <a href="http://www.alamodejournals.com/index.php/2009/09/spoonful-of-sugar/">A la Mode</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-24741801386095444352012-09-17T05:36:00.001-07:002012-09-17T05:36:39.043-07:00Endive Salmon Poppers (Paleo)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2Ledr2-J8WWg3ehSHZLyfAPq_kgFTIhv8hnsa8vrfhFghrXrfRS1ab5DXXhrSruVGb0QJjYCsBd_MyKNW1U3RYmC7Y-5nWC7kNcn2FMMoQbEmggE7rJ7ThUljCbRaa6sVRwa-1jVlhA/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf2Ledr2-J8WWg3ehSHZLyfAPq_kgFTIhv8hnsa8vrfhFghrXrfRS1ab5DXXhrSruVGb0QJjYCsBd_MyKNW1U3RYmC7Y-5nWC7kNcn2FMMoQbEmggE7rJ7ThUljCbRaa6sVRwa-1jVlhA/s640/009.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb5QwUmpEFRBxBf9bv1sPJ8xVbsXEc_EmCCoKWQgk6npl_-8YvjGoibi6b4ixryCDSIvnfyRHluo4R8p6isgJaUm7xGUUy8MM3Kt_6kUgGEuyImX2A6EVdA-CTClZEy8cgG5F_l65NPyw/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb5QwUmpEFRBxBf9bv1sPJ8xVbsXEc_EmCCoKWQgk6npl_-8YvjGoibi6b4ixryCDSIvnfyRHluo4R8p6isgJaUm7xGUUy8MM3Kt_6kUgGEuyImX2A6EVdA-CTClZEy8cgG5F_l65NPyw/s640/003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
Before anyone asks, no, I'm not doing the Paleo diet. It would be funny though since it's the polar opposite of being vegetarian, which I used to be a couple years ago. I saw these on a Facebook friend's wall and they just looked so good that I had to make them. I'm a huge lover of smoked salmon and avocado, and I've been trying to eat healthy with as little carbs from bread and grains as possible and work out like a champ lately. These are the perfect snack or light dinner since they're super easy to put together and super tasty and delicious. The avocado is creamy and the tang from the lemon is perfect with the smoked salmon. I'm so glad that I'm finding new healthier recipes to eat that I actually enjoy!<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><br /></u></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Endive Salmon Poppers</u></span><br />
<i>yield: 2 portions</i><br />
<br />
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
1-2 heads endive<br />
4 oz smoked salmon, chopped<br />
1/2 red onion, minced<br />
1/2 avocado, sliced<br />
<div>
1/2 lemon<br />
sea salt<br />
freshly ground black pepper<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Wash and separate endive leaves. Top with smoked salmon, red onion, and avocado. Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over top of each leaf. Sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
adapted from <a href="http://www.paleoplan.com/2010/06-13/endive-salmon-poppers/">Paleo Plan</a></div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-6132138148274564742012-09-14T04:36:00.000-07:002012-09-14T04:36:47.025-07:00Baked Avocado Fries<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiYgFMlZFJVmyXbVYLNjquf6VS2ye6PqsO0MRqQ2Y1aZK4_n5Apd52wVAQAraK0xXDeL-9XtemWbbINYXvozJeJcWrhScDGnmWnXGDJFhxeveopkWzCfHboMD3P3_gAGxKSw89VV8IRI/s1600/nice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggiYgFMlZFJVmyXbVYLNjquf6VS2ye6PqsO0MRqQ2Y1aZK4_n5Apd52wVAQAraK0xXDeL-9XtemWbbINYXvozJeJcWrhScDGnmWnXGDJFhxeveopkWzCfHboMD3P3_gAGxKSw89VV8IRI/s640/nice.jpg" width="544" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Here's another delicious recipe that I found on Pinterest. I had these fries somewhere before and I remember them being delicious with their tangy dipping sauce. You might think baked avocado fries are somewhat healthy, but they're coated in flour, egg, and panko so don't get your hopes up, this isn't a health food recipe! But I did leave the nutritional info at the bottom, anyways. Keep in mind that most of the coatings won't stick so the calorie content is slightly higher than the actual finished product (yipee!). I totally ate a serving of these as dinner last night, because sometimes you just need to eat crispy crunchy avocado and Vitamin water zero. Then you don't feel so bad when the sea salt caramel gelato in the freezer calls your name. The Big E starts tomorrow, too, so I have to make sure I save my precious calories for fried oreos and gyros! =D<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Baked Avocado Fries</u></span><br />
<i>yield: 4 servings</i><br />
<br />
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
1/4 cup flour<br />
2 large eggs, beaten<br />
1 1/4 cups panko (Japanese bread crumbs)<br />
2 firm-ripe medium avocados, pitted, peeled, and sliced into 1/2-in. wedges<br />
1 tsp kosher salt<br />
squeeze lime juice<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Pour the flour, eggs, and panko into separate wide bowls. Sprinkle avocado slices liberally with kosher salt.<br />
<br />
In an assembly line fashion coat avocado slices first in flour, tapping off excess to get a very thin dusting. Then coat lightly in the egg and then directly into the panko, using your hands to pat the breadcrumbs onto every side.<br />
<br />
Spread on a cooling rack that has been sprayed with non-stick spray. Place the rack onto a large cookie sheet. Sprinkle with more salt and bake for about 20 minutes at 450, or until they are golden brown (I turned my oven up to 500 for the last 5 minutes). Add a squeeze of lime juice and enjoy!<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
slightly adapted from <a href="http://bethcooks.squarespace.com/journal/2011/1/6/baked-avocado-fries.html">Beth Cooks</a><br />
<br />
<b>NUTRITION INFORMATION</b><br />
<i>1 servings = 1/4th recipe</i><br />
<u>Amount per Serving</u><br />
Calories<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>270.4<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: white; width: 255px;"></table>
Total Fat<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>16.2 g<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: white; width: 255px;"></table>
Saturated Fat<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>2.6 g<br />
Total Carbohydrate<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>26.6 g<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: white; width: 255px;"></table>
Dietary Fiber<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>6.7 g<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: white; width: 255px;"></table>
Sugars<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>0.3 g<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="background-color: white; width: 255px;"></table>
Protein<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>7.5 gSarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-7530335197067923782012-09-13T04:47:00.000-07:002012-09-13T04:47:21.277-07:00Shredded Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGY3Wsmk2O2WZnmJGwV3e2lBiAo0ms8EQLo14rM3WrBwPN16d-OrZLBdu3Hm6axmYdDe_mp1zdPyQbmRqsS4gl38gO_-xImDmzqR430-NzRVkZAOfvyjgMT4nP2Ow58qgB56_9Fk691aE/s1600/bright2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGY3Wsmk2O2WZnmJGwV3e2lBiAo0ms8EQLo14rM3WrBwPN16d-OrZLBdu3Hm6axmYdDe_mp1zdPyQbmRqsS4gl38gO_-xImDmzqR430-NzRVkZAOfvyjgMT4nP2Ow58qgB56_9Fk691aE/s640/bright2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsViMBpvGAp1VjWHliEZPRS0YVxdtUKbjw70tiL6LWWDStw926lD1Meaox0njxtRWWHmY8nnanZTAgMa5UacEChaqeGtvFs13vhYu-48r4tA_YXEVmKMaaE7d2tf9LK9m0U9aQGaOrR4/s1600/edit7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAsViMBpvGAp1VjWHliEZPRS0YVxdtUKbjw70tiL6LWWDStw926lD1Meaox0njxtRWWHmY8nnanZTAgMa5UacEChaqeGtvFs13vhYu-48r4tA_YXEVmKMaaE7d2tf9LK9m0U9aQGaOrR4/s640/edit7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Recently I put a new 'Link Within' feature on the blog at the bottom of each post. It's made me examine past posts that I never otherwise would have looked at since anytime I preview a post, there those old posts are, staring me in the face. I never realized just how absolutely horrible my pictures used to be! I knew they were bad, but I guess I blocked out just how bad. I decided I needed a makeover on a lot of those posts, and I'm starting with this recipe for chicken enchiladas with white sauce since I was craving it for dinner tonight. This recipe was originally posted as a part of a Foodbuzz 24x24, which I'm pretty sure they don't do anymore. It was made completely from scratch, including the corn tortillas. I didn't have time for that kind of stuff tonight, but I will say that corn tortillas rather than flour tortillas are a must. These are quick and easy enchiladas that are basically from scratch. They're cheesy and delicious, and I could never resist these, especially since Mexican food is my favorite cuisine after cupcakes.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHXokXrPwSfah9B868FqqFk9Fby3WHktYmZu2dFU06IULQFBLoGbTE2wf6tmUqyoM9DVyMA7A5lG4TdgCSepAvlG-FeucBpoldQr0qOUihoiXf217czpK4kG7_mkEB6XYn5sl5fRIR6U/s1600/love.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQHXokXrPwSfah9B868FqqFk9Fby3WHktYmZu2dFU06IULQFBLoGbTE2wf6tmUqyoM9DVyMA7A5lG4TdgCSepAvlG-FeucBpoldQr0qOUihoiXf217czpK4kG7_mkEB6XYn5sl5fRIR6U/s640/love.jpg" width="482" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The funny thing is that after reading over the old post I realize that absolutely nothing has changed since then, and that was almost a year ago. Jason still always picks On the Border for dinner, still consistently orders the fajitas and strawberry-mango frozen margarita, and I'm still making boxed fajita mix for him since it's just about the only Mexican food I make that he'll eat. The one earth-shattering exception is that I recently started making garlic shrimp to go with the chicken fajitas to make them more like On the Border, and Jason approves. Crazy!<br />
<br />
<u><span style="font-size: large;">Shredded Chicken Enchiladas with White Sauce</span></u><br />
<i>yield: serves 6-8</i><br />
<br />
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
<i>For the shredded chicken filling:</i><br />
1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts<br />
2 tbsp canola oil<br />
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
<br />
4 cloves garlic, minced<br />
3/4 cup chicken stock<br />
1 tsp cumin<br />
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes<br />
salt and pepper, to taste<br />
<br />
<i>For the white sauce:</i><br />
3 tbsp canola oil<br />
3 tbsp flour<br />
1 1/2 cups chicken broth or milk<br />
3 ounce can diced chiles, drained<br />
5 ounces monterey jack or cheddar cheese, grated<br />
1/2 tsp paprika<br />
<br />
<i>To assemble:</i><br />
10 soft corn tortillas<br />
3 ounces monterey jack and cheddar cheese, grated<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
To make the chicken: preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.<br />
<br />
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken into the skillet to brown, 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan.<br />
<br />
Lower the heat to medium low and add in the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the onion and sautee until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds more. Remove from the heat and stir in the chicken broth, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Place the chicken back in the skillet. Cover with aluminum foil and cook in the oven for 1 hour. Let cool before shredding chicken with forks (it will be very tender).<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, prepare the white sauce: in a medium saucepan over medium heat add the oil. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Stir in the chiles and the cheese until melted. Stir in the paprika.<br />
<br />
To assemble the enchiladas: begin by softening the tortillas - heat the tortillas all together under a damp towel in the microwave for about 20 seconds. Alternatively, heat the tortillas one-by-one over direct heat on a burner until just browned. Keep warm under a towel during assembly. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In an 8x8 baking dish or pie dish pour in enough white sauce to coat the bottom. Carefully roll each tortilla with some of the shredded chicken and nestle in the pan. Cover with more white sauce and cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
Sarah Cupcake original, inspired by<a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/11/white-chicken-enchiladas/"> the Pioneer Woman</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-14775481343638849742012-09-12T03:51:00.003-07:002012-09-12T04:24:39.136-07:00What I Ate Wednesday<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqmYBzsu2RhnpCGenIMYsJ_M5XclIO02dhR9dSVgldYaI1J1O8clfp3iTLOCeoKBu8wBaR57acpYxnhb7gz2TesS5x-rpId9wiJ9i0t_7IcaGx9mp5EoLK_szVBQrkRkLubHJuFbs-MF1/s1600/wiaw+fall+into+good+habits+button.jpg" /></a>
</div>
<br />
Today is officially my second WIAW! Woohoo! I'm trying to be really good this week since I totally screwed up my diet this weekend at a wedding and baby shower. Ugh, but life happens and the most important thing is that you just get back on track. Monday was a good day, and I went to a 90 minute spinning class, which kicked my butt. It felt good to know I was working off the calories I ate over the weekend, though! Here's what I ate today:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>BREAKFAST</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGrYZq9dkeLPQ_tbjGpgS25qdvf3esUMJS1p0FquPlgoclisMk881MfOaiYFmnDyNtWyC8ua9Iz-ltBrbXRQyg0tC0zvsAOOhpuHpv4_NpkitjIhZzjtZbIiO2o-lVtRs7loca06tEfQ/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZGrYZq9dkeLPQ_tbjGpgS25qdvf3esUMJS1p0FquPlgoclisMk881MfOaiYFmnDyNtWyC8ua9Iz-ltBrbXRQyg0tC0zvsAOOhpuHpv4_NpkitjIhZzjtZbIiO2o-lVtRs7loca06tEfQ/s640/008.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Breakfast was <b>coffee </b>with stevia and homemade pumpkin spice syrup (sooo good!). I also had some Kashi Cinnamon Crunch <b>cereal w/o milk</b> since my belly was hurting. I measured out 1 cup since I'm trying to be good.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>LUNCH</b></span><br />
My dad and I went to Storrowton Tavern <b>restaurant</b> for lunch and I got the all you can eat soup and <b>salad</b>. I ate one salad w/italian dressing and two small cups of <b>chicken and rice soup</b> with a Diet Coke, my addiction. They were setting up for the Big E (!!!) on Friday which I'm so super excited for, and we got to walk around the fairgrounds while everyone was setting up. Can't wait to post more on that! Sadly, I didn't get any pictures<b> </b>of my lunch.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SNACK</b></span><br />
After lunch I filled out a ton of RN job applications (my life lately). Then it was time to pick up Riley from preschool. I took peanuts and stale bread with me and we made a trip to the park to feed the ducks and chipmunks. On the way I got a medium pumpkin spice <b>ice coffee</b> from Dunkin' Donuts and three apple <b>donut holes</b> for Riley and myself. Sooo good! Sorry, no pic of that either.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>DINNER</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9mMp26A-PpwYsL-9JTRuXOlqfCYv-ZjmjYt6eqcmbWYLIpHitkV6oua-HJqEnOAaAqqTp37_4US6Nv7YNtt05fbIEEORwKytj4-tyV27M-0c9jr_U2dxQzHiGufOxwfT2EUiNrpvnmQ/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9mMp26A-PpwYsL-9JTRuXOlqfCYv-ZjmjYt6eqcmbWYLIpHitkV6oua-HJqEnOAaAqqTp37_4US6Nv7YNtt05fbIEEORwKytj4-tyV27M-0c9jr_U2dxQzHiGufOxwfT2EUiNrpvnmQ/s640/014.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
For dinner I had a package of <b>green beans w/spaetzel</b> and a <b>Vitamin Water Zero</b>. My belly really hurt today so I didn't eat as much as I normally would. After dinner I meant to go to the gym for a Les Mills Body Combat class, but instead I played outside and watched Lady and the Tramp with Riley. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>SNACK</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZOrl-xZUwwKN_EsK6kvgiBgwTJ87Y8r5Vx4JSCSLihXuWcZCjc3_TqBKxHIPflLIg_9_lwZaf-Bo_rG-vMQZRoEDYUWa1klCwGajDjKWaGPWHu1naZi3afVMmr1sM4XOD7tKAwiGkMs/s1600/002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZOrl-xZUwwKN_EsK6kvgiBgwTJ87Y8r5Vx4JSCSLihXuWcZCjc3_TqBKxHIPflLIg_9_lwZaf-Bo_rG-vMQZRoEDYUWa1klCwGajDjKWaGPWHu1naZi3afVMmr1sM4XOD7tKAwiGkMs/s640/002.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Once Riley was in bed I made a <b>smoothie</b> with frozen blueberries, a banana, and almond milk. Then it was bedtime!<br />
<br />
My goals this fall are to eat less, under 1800 calories a day, and to start cooking healthier foods. I definitely met the first goal today, but I'm still working on the healthier foods part. I'm really loving these WIAW since I always journal what I eat, anyways. It's a little more motivation knowing everyone is now seeing it all!</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-90837645521251361182012-09-11T07:25:00.000-07:002012-09-11T07:25:17.037-07:00Spicy Browned-Beef Chili (Paleo)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQrBxtJVZVLMYiSzW3uV3OdgMZx63KQ1aMlDoRY1B3g4LtJ4TecTDwx8iBE4hFcriVrNq_6p9F6d2bqFWJ937wKA3HBoBAXalL4EZNlpHuUqaE4aykmUBFKzTYYRXF-0pLJQ5kSo6KSaI/s1600/040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQrBxtJVZVLMYiSzW3uV3OdgMZx63KQ1aMlDoRY1B3g4LtJ4TecTDwx8iBE4hFcriVrNq_6p9F6d2bqFWJ937wKA3HBoBAXalL4EZNlpHuUqaE4aykmUBFKzTYYRXF-0pLJQ5kSo6KSaI/s640/040.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I kinda sorta made up this recipe from a recipe I found on Pinterest. It was sort of similar except that it used a whole lot of tomato paste, cocoa powder, allspice, and didn't use any chilies or peppers. I pretty much massacred the recipe, but in the end it tasted delicious! I was going for a super spicy chili, but alas - chilis, cayenne, and crushed red pepper weren't enough to make it super spicy. Next time I'll have to add 5 chilis and up the spices if I want it to be spicy enough for my boyfriend. I'm also going to use a leaner ground beef than 80/20, but since I'm super broke I ended up buying the 80/20 and regretting it as I was skimming fat off the top of the chili for 20 minutes. I also absolutely hate taking pictures of soup or savory food in general, hence the super crappy picture. If this chili was a cupcake, it would be much cuter.<br />
<br />
<u><span style="font-size: large;">Spicy Browned-Beef Chili</span></u><br />
<i>yield: a big ol' pot</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b><br />
2 tbsp canola oil (coconut oil if you're going Paleo)<br />
2 medium onions, diced<br />
1 green bell pepper, diced<br />
2 hot chilis, minced<br />
6 cloves garlic, minced<br />
1/2 tsp dried oregano<br />
1 tsp chili powder<br />
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin<br />
1/2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder<br />
1/8 tsp ground allspice<br />
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper<br />
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper<br />
1 tsp granulated garlic<br />
2 1/4 lbs ground beef<br />
1 can (14.5 ounces) fire-roasted, chopped tomatoes<br />
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes<br />
1 cup water<br />
2 beef bouillon cubes<br />
2 tsp soy sauce<br />
salt and pepper, to taste<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Heat a large, deep pot over medium heat, and add the canola oil. Add the onions, bell pepper, and a pinch of salt and sweat until translucent, about 7 minutes. Add the chilis and garlic and saute until fragrant, about 1 minute more.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, in a small bowl stir together the oregano, chili powder, cumin, cocoa powder, allspice, cayenne, crushed red pepper, and granulate garlic. Add to the pot with the vegetables and stir together until combined and fragrant, another minute.<br />
<br />
Add the beef to the pot and crank the heat up to medium-high. Salt to taste. Cook until the meat is completely browned, cutting it up with a wooden spoon so no large chunks form. This will probably take another 5-10 minutes. Once the meat is browned, add the fire-roasted tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, water, beef bouillon, and soy sauce. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and let simmer for AT LEAST 2 hours. Season to taste.<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
Sarah Cupcake original!Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-68436251353543660102012-09-10T04:53:00.000-07:002012-09-10T04:53:19.084-07:00DIY Pumpkin Spice Syrup for Coffee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifG5tCfA2v-dZ6DwwYlhdSY0Hjqd8psY1XDML9C6WtLgfwUekQ5cm3vxTybtP1odve7Cbk_aJYkzeyPS78ZpWAp2ofgXhrnhCam_lhc3XKXMywP2wkoYCLTz_PgrSVtfvEUV4YK7132XM/s1600/hmmmm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifG5tCfA2v-dZ6DwwYlhdSY0Hjqd8psY1XDML9C6WtLgfwUekQ5cm3vxTybtP1odve7Cbk_aJYkzeyPS78ZpWAp2ofgXhrnhCam_lhc3XKXMywP2wkoYCLTz_PgrSVtfvEUV4YK7132XM/s640/hmmmm.jpg" width="418" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You have absolutely no idea how happy I am that I found this recipe! It's like Dunkin' Donuts pumpkin coffee but 100x better because it's homemade and less expensive. When my first test batch came out I was totally skeptical, but the proof is in the puddin'. I <i>did</i> have a problem with straining out all the spices and pumpkin, but a cloudy syrup is the least of my troubles now that I have this syrup. You probably have all the ingredients to make it in your house right now, so you have no excuse not to try it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0B27K3nc6vPOHhIXYA7MlNbSjukg8FuRv-4fU53n9l7CJmu0Rp9yb9zCusB-MLlmCcyzz-xVavj5H-ZsBwmMjtfPLi6WwrC0TmXTXKnJVww2CUpb5xEDgDiQnz8FdCgRfNs_vRnpMqU/s1600/snack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0B27K3nc6vPOHhIXYA7MlNbSjukg8FuRv-4fU53n9l7CJmu0Rp9yb9zCusB-MLlmCcyzz-xVavj5H-ZsBwmMjtfPLi6WwrC0TmXTXKnJVww2CUpb5xEDgDiQnz8FdCgRfNs_vRnpMqU/s640/snack.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
And now, on to more important things. I read the blog Annie's Eats on a daily basis and she just posted this story about her trip to the restaurant <a href="https://content.alinearestaurant.com/html/pages/gallery/gallery_cuis.html">Alinea</a>. You actually have to score <i>tickets</i> to this place months in advance at around $250 a piece depending on the dinner that night. I'd never heard of it before her post, but I quickly became interested after I read her description and found out that it's been named one of top restaurant in the country by many. Now I just have to get all nerdy and read chef Grant Achatz's memiors as soon as I can get it. Anyone else itching to go to Alinea?<br />
<br />
<u style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Spice Syrup</span></u><br />
<div>
<u style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></u></div>
<div>
<b>INGREDIENTS </b></div>
1 1/2 cups water<br />
1 1/2 cups sugar (I used 3/4 cups sugar and supplement w/Stevia)<br />
2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1 tsp ground nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp ground ginger<br />
1/2 tsp ground cloves<br />
3 tbsp pumpkin puree<br />
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b><br />
Combine the water and sugar in a medium saucepan and heat over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Whisk in the spices and the pumpkin puree. Continue to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, without letting the mixture come to a boil. Remove from the heat and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth (tripled up) and store in your container of choice. Store in the refrigerator.<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b><br />
adapted from <a href="http://annies-eats.com/2011/10/03/diy-pumpkin-spice-syrup-for-pumpkin-spice-lattes/">Annie's Eats</a>Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-11471983368160502202012-09-07T03:35:00.000-07:002012-09-07T03:35:03.416-07:00Chicken, Sweet Potato, Sausage Bake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHS6k0Ro-uHfhBEqDbxrnAFzj4Pquq2AyeYYcfmvELyzyBR050wPq5wSu7-QIbb845mpeJKxlvaRNAy4tD2_MC00PTeISasbUyLL1veu2B_BrjQmwpBkDTKJUBZ88si6cL9YQfL-Dj5bs/s1600/052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHS6k0Ro-uHfhBEqDbxrnAFzj4Pquq2AyeYYcfmvELyzyBR050wPq5wSu7-QIbb845mpeJKxlvaRNAy4tD2_MC00PTeISasbUyLL1veu2B_BrjQmwpBkDTKJUBZ88si6cL9YQfL-Dj5bs/s640/052.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So if you don't know by now that I'm absolutely obsessed with fall then I'd like to reiterate myself by beginning my "fall food" recipes today, September 5th, five days into my unofficial fall season. I pretty regularly make this recipe with russet potatoes and a ton of olive oil. It's good all seasons. But being that I'm turning a new leaf here, and being "healthy", I'm so super stoked (like, you have NO idea) that this recipe is made with all natural fresh ingredients and not a drop of added oil! K, so now you know why you should put this on your recipe to-do list in the upcoming months.<br />
<div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tduozzEoyTMXosclKxRSTaWWCJ8s9nKU6vzvmZ98-g2N3Fea0hjpDvAWHFTOF-9YmuJCd84aOht_wjHmG18B1PmSef89BRaEX-V96DJcZ3JUTHGyrUMrDMMkCXRAXNbhPOtEIO3mGl8/s1600/yum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4tduozzEoyTMXosclKxRSTaWWCJ8s9nKU6vzvmZ98-g2N3Fea0hjpDvAWHFTOF-9YmuJCd84aOht_wjHmG18B1PmSef89BRaEX-V96DJcZ3JUTHGyrUMrDMMkCXRAXNbhPOtEIO3mGl8/s640/yum.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
I also NEED to talk to someone about my fall obsession. I've got about five thousand things I'd like to do, and I think I need to get all OCD up in here and make a schedule. Before Halloween (that's exactly 8 weeks away today, but who's counting) I have to do everything from going on a hayride to pick a pumpkin to driving 3 hours up to Vermont to go to the King Arthur Flour Store. And I need someone to drag along with me the whole way! That may be a problem, but I'm pretty hardcore in my fall activities. So I'me actually creating a list. Workin' away.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><u>Chicken, Sweet Potato, Sausage Bake</u></span></div>
<div>
<i>yield: 10 servings</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<b>INGREDIENTS</b></div>
<div>
4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs</div>
<div>
<div>
6 hot Italian sausages</div>
<div>
5 large sweet potatoes, chopped into chunks</div>
<div>
3 yellow onions, quartered</div>
<div>
1 garlic bulb, top sliced off</div>
<div>
1/2 cup chicken stock (I used almost 1 cup)</div>
<div>
1 tbsp dry mustard powder (I used a squeeze of dijon mustard)</div>
<div>
1 tbsp honey</div>
<div>
1 tsp dried rosemary</div>
<div>
salt and freshly ground black pepper</div>
<div>
a small handful of fresh sage leaves</div>
<br />
<b>DIRECTIONS</b></div>
<div>
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Arrange the chicken and sausages in a large roasting pan with the sweet potatoes, yellow onions and garlic, making sure not to overload the pan. In a measuring cup, mix together the chicken stock, mustard powder, honey and rosemary. Pour the stock mixture over the chicken, sausages and vegetables, making sure everything is coated with the stock. Season with salt (adjust according to how salty your stock is) and pepper. Scatter over the sage leaves. Roast in the oven for 45 to 55 minutes. Serve straight from the roasting tin, making sure to spoon over any remaining juices.<br />
<br />
<b>SOURCE</b></div>
<div>
adapted from <a href="http://dinnerdujour.org/2010/04/14/oven-roasted-sausage-and-sweet-potato/">Dinner Do Jour</a> who got it from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1856356299?ie=UTF8&tag=didujo-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1856356299">Good Mood Food</a><br />
<br />
<b>NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION</b></div>
<div>
<i>serving size = 1/10th recipe</i></div>
<div>
<div>
<u>Amount Per Serving</u></div>
<div>
Calories<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>258.3</div>
<div>
Total Fat <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>11.9 g</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Saturated Fat <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>4.0 g</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5 g</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Monounsaturated Fat 0.5 g</div>
<div>
Cholesterol<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>61.9 mg</div>
<div>
Sodium<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>387.1 mg</div>
<div>
Potassium<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>325.4 mg</div>
<div>
Total Carbohydrate<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>23.3 g</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Dietary Fiber<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>3.2 g</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Sugars<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>0.0 g</div>
<div>
Protein<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>14.9 g</div>
</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-707550121149383681.post-2588267465768842282012-09-06T06:17:00.000-07:002012-09-06T06:17:37.052-07:00What I Ate Wednesday<center>
<a href="http://www.peasandcrayons.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFqmYBzsu2RhnpCGenIMYsJ_M5XclIO02dhR9dSVgldYaI1J1O8clfp3iTLOCeoKBu8wBaR57acpYxnhb7gz2TesS5x-rpId9wiJ9i0t_7IcaGx9mp5EoLK_szVBQrkRkLubHJuFbs-MF1/s1600/wiaw+fall+into+good+habits+button.jpg" /></a></center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<br /></center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
I'm really excited to post my first What I Ate Wednesday on here! I've always wanted to participate but didn't actually have the courage until now. I've been trying to make a LOT of changes to my diet lately and this month's theme is about 'falling' into good habits. My goals are to cook more healthy food and to stay under 1800 calories a day. I'm a day late this week, but here's what I ate!</center>
<center>
<br /></center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9Zwf0L0I1n7IfmJ2sxz06hbkxvLcT1ctgYebgLAkG-ZpTL5jLokk1PQb0ZgsLOk_ZmsbJ2wpfeLspRMW9Maqt-iCroBdvaHGegpYxVBX3xuAgxMcej6H1RJw6aaz7JkN_dzfGGL2Zrc/s1600/breakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9Zwf0L0I1n7IfmJ2sxz06hbkxvLcT1ctgYebgLAkG-ZpTL5jLokk1PQb0ZgsLOk_ZmsbJ2wpfeLspRMW9Maqt-iCroBdvaHGegpYxVBX3xuAgxMcej6H1RJw6aaz7JkN_dzfGGL2Zrc/s640/breakfast.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Breakfast was two nectarines and a small coffee with light cream and stevia. After breakfast I started experimenting with a pumpkin spice syrup recipe. I can't wait to post it on here!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_rGd6Qvt6kpxdV1eBgXPMwlGOqwox4hNFvJlVn4Q46o96NqtqTZGmKkI00E843G_9-Z7HGA7MbSgTopVbtONq1CzHN_M5MjmRB6ZWT8F5Coi8IOL9pPUO-3GLWZvGsCxOhyuiMcmTys/s1600/lunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_rGd6Qvt6kpxdV1eBgXPMwlGOqwox4hNFvJlVn4Q46o96NqtqTZGmKkI00E843G_9-Z7HGA7MbSgTopVbtONq1CzHN_M5MjmRB6ZWT8F5Coi8IOL9pPUO-3GLWZvGsCxOhyuiMcmTys/s640/lunch.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I ate a late lunch of this awesome sausage, sweet potato, and chicken bake, which I'll be posting soon, too. It was so good but really filling!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBY2a8AXRmnMdmW36S7YOR0XFkXgPv8kqPBdGaXtC641bR-FqikKXOGDwzRBnn_FJgk8N7FOaDxYJnqn0AoPaCWaTSEwnfmQyjvlgr_g-am7NbuNw6SpIxSmWunoaof-p1SZSPsjYKlI0/s1600/snack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBY2a8AXRmnMdmW36S7YOR0XFkXgPv8kqPBdGaXtC641bR-FqikKXOGDwzRBnn_FJgk8N7FOaDxYJnqn0AoPaCWaTSEwnfmQyjvlgr_g-am7NbuNw6SpIxSmWunoaof-p1SZSPsjYKlI0/s640/snack.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had a large iced coffee with this homemade pumpkin spice syrup 'test batch' I made in the morning as a snack. I only made a small amount but I'm going to the store to buy more bottles and cheesecloth because it is AMAZING!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURRHP-Ypqd1jr6pUSt0N4Q_E2NX66kj9Bu75uGBe9K9KW-3-u_ULJ8mq2zM5lH_xgjyuKkGzFJlfJszgnamv62-_iBOTXzikm9HIUL-l1X9OVTMHFpNQQ-APc6WG2Vqs8w2RnI5HWT_4/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURRHP-Ypqd1jr6pUSt0N4Q_E2NX66kj9Bu75uGBe9K9KW-3-u_ULJ8mq2zM5lH_xgjyuKkGzFJlfJszgnamv62-_iBOTXzikm9HIUL-l1X9OVTMHFpNQQ-APc6WG2Vqs8w2RnI5HWT_4/s640/007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A couple hours after my coffee I had a 60 minute spinning class. When I got back I watched Sesame Street with Riley and then made a salad with iceberg lettuce, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and vinegar. I also ate a bunch of watermelon. I may or may not have stolen three pepperoni slices from my mom's pizza...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyzoS8s5pwQ6gdb13Ax7D4ZfKxls6FPL3NRiMDTF_w615-nJkM1DvZfsvoa7SZV3D4b3HRUHM765VwMukUUEoVwOWZevIgWkiG9AYYUfTUfXEez8H_DJd2rbEZAxyhn8kA_Cm1e6XqrI/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyzoS8s5pwQ6gdb13Ax7D4ZfKxls6FPL3NRiMDTF_w615-nJkM1DvZfsvoa7SZV3D4b3HRUHM765VwMukUUEoVwOWZevIgWkiG9AYYUfTUfXEez8H_DJd2rbEZAxyhn8kA_Cm1e6XqrI/s640/003.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After I got Riley ready for bed and she was 'asleep' I drank a huge glass of Diet Coke, more watermelon, and some homestyle popcorn. I have a weakness for Diet Coke. That should be one of my goals - stop the D.C. I try to drink cold green tea with Stevia as an alternative. Sometimes.</div>
Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09197675931059123136noreply@blogger.com1