tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64049437315750018152024-03-17T19:59:23.949-07:00Anne Strawberryrecipes, photos, and more. my little neglected corner of the internet. the cookie recipes are worth it.Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.comBlogger369125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-31260005162753804342021-12-21T15:04:00.002-07:002021-12-21T15:04:23.681-07:00Chocolate Cookies<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0kPTIL9Bgf2b7Cl05igFl9CkamL_qSMnk9rs7V-2IFwQrE74bbf0oCATyMqNgkg3gsWbryNiEkvBEyZFT5xKMBp2HjtIJI3gkwrO4wbUs7zTeM0uAw4HyWIF_YJxp2eZZbmNUflLc3eZZyNcHKQ6F_ralH0UrI0vMwKbw5YTFncfncvkuP4RzBHyI=s1133" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1133" data-original-width="1125" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0kPTIL9Bgf2b7Cl05igFl9CkamL_qSMnk9rs7V-2IFwQrE74bbf0oCATyMqNgkg3gsWbryNiEkvBEyZFT5xKMBp2HjtIJI3gkwrO4wbUs7zTeM0uAw4HyWIF_YJxp2eZZbmNUflLc3eZZyNcHKQ6F_ralH0UrI0vMwKbw5YTFncfncvkuP4RzBHyI=w447-h450" width="447" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;">It's baking season and that means friends are texting me for cookie recipes! I'm still making chocolate chip cookies as described in my <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2019/08/chocolate-chip-cookies-currently.html">latest blog post</a> (over two years ago, "latest" is laced with a heavy dose of sarcasm!)<br /><br />I've decided to update my chocolate cookie recipe since it's my second most requested. The secret to these is the <a href="https://amzn.to/32onwki">Hershey's Special Dark Cocoa Powder</a> which gives the nice dark color. I use about half <a href="https://amzn.to/32onwki">special dark</a> and half standard cocoa powder (<a href="https://amzn.to/3moxYiE">Trader Joe's</a> is my favorite). I'm not much for sifting but cocoa powder is often lumpy so I make an extra effort for these. <br /><br />This cookie dough is versatile. I use it to make sandwich cookies (like homemade Oreos) as shown above. It's a great base for any chocolate chip cookie dough addition- I like it with white chocolate or peppermint chips, or even M&Ms. They taste great with the <a href="https://amzn.to/3qdIomA">Andes Mint chips</a> but I haven't been able to find them in store this year. For an extra special treat I frost the top of the cookies with mint or peanut butter frosting and then <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2016/03/chocolate-peanut-butter-buckeye-cookies.html">smear some chocolate ganache</a> on top- it's my favorite mint brownie recipe turned into cookies. The dough also freezes like a dream- I usually scoop the extra with my smallest cookie scoop and freeze the balls. My hungry teen boy snitches them out of the freezer with alacrity.<br /><br />Let me know how you end up using this recipe. Leave a comment or tag me on Instagram (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/anne.strawberry/?hl=en">@anne.strawberry</a>). Happy baking, and happy holidays friends.<br /><br /><b style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;"><u>Chocolate Cookie Dough</u></b><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">from Anne Strawberry</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">Yields about 50 standard size cookies</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">3 cups Flour </span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">1 cup Cocoa Powder</span></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">3/4 cup Special Dark Cocoa Powder<br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">1 tablespoon Baking Soda</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">1 teaspoon Kosher Salt</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">1 1/4 cups Brown Sugar</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">1 1/2 cups Sugar</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">1 1/2 cups Butter, softened (3 sticks)</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">3 Eggs, at room temperature</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare baking sheets (Grease or line with silicone baking sheet or parchment paper).</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set dry ingredients aside.</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">Cream together the butter, brown sugar and white sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes in the KitchenAid). Add egg and beat well. Add vanilla and mix until well combined.</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">With the mixer on low, slowly add in the dry mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Add in any mix ins if desired (chocolate chips, M&Ms, etc). </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">Scoop onto the prepared cookie sheet and squish slightly to flatten cookies.</span><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; line-height: 21.56px;">Bake for about 8 or 10 minutes. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. </span></span><p></p></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-37995414516832803762019-08-05T12:05:00.000-07:002019-08-05T12:27:00.534-07:00Chocolate Chip Cookies, currently<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39cZAfhz_oiEVEG-fKxYThMhnUBmo63Q_YOFtUZhwiogoVY3FumsMw8L3a-fc78vVBsvEqaDbLGEgCCsF3mjUGu_B0pGAp7u31J-KbCogseKtSmCldIS8pcDYrCY8twa1-Rpu32NQi9I/s1600/chocolate+chip+cookies.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="772" height="592" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj39cZAfhz_oiEVEG-fKxYThMhnUBmo63Q_YOFtUZhwiogoVY3FumsMw8L3a-fc78vVBsvEqaDbLGEgCCsF3mjUGu_B0pGAp7u31J-KbCogseKtSmCldIS8pcDYrCY8twa1-Rpu32NQi9I/s640/chocolate+chip+cookies.png" width="640" /></a></div>
My lifelong favorite cookie and recipe, chocolate chip cookies feature regularly on the treat rotation around here. Although they act like an easy going staple, I find them to be slightly fussy and very changeable. I prefer my cookies to be soft and slightly chewy, with semisweet chips and plenty of salt. I only use real butter (I prefer Costco's) and "good vanilla and chocolate". If that sounds like Ina Garten, so be it. She's still my favorite human being I've never met.<br />
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Friends always ask me exactly how I make my chocolate chip cookies so I'll do my best to lay out the ingredients and techniques, because even a little change makes a big difference.<br />
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<b>Brown Sugar-</b> I use dark brown exclusively and prefer the Target or Safeway brand<br />
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<b>White Sugar-</b> C & H (I get the 10 lb bags at Costco- they perfectly fill <a href="https://amzn.to/33fFktx">my canister</a> as shown above)<br />
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<b>Butter-</b> I exclusively use regular salted butter from Costco except when I can get Land o' Lakes or Challenge inexpensively over the holiday baking season<br />
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<b>Vanilla-</b> I always buy Costco's <a href="https://amzn.to/2GMGFyE">pure vanilla extract</a>. I love the flavor and they finally added a pour spout (I never measure and always dump in extra). This stuff is expensive and delicious. I always mean to make my own but haven't gotten to it yet. My friend gave me a bottle of homemade vanilla for Christmas a while back and I just store it in my pantry and admire it whenever I see it. I love good vanilla. This bottle costs $29.99 at my Costco right now which is a significant improvement from when it reached $38 last year but still a lot more than when I paid $17 a bottle a few years ago. It's expensive but I don't know of a decent substitute. Please leave a comment if you have a source or suggestion. I live in Arizona but Mexican vanilla isn't really my jam due to it's inconsistency, although some varieties are great.<br />
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<b>Salt-</b> I use <a href="https://amzn.to/2YtUEnV">Diamond Kosher Salt</a> for everything at my house except making homemade playdoh (I break out the Morton from the back of the pantry for that!). It's really inexpensive at my local Kroger store.<br />
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Kosher and sea salts have a different shaped crystal and softer taste than iodized salt so recipes usually call for varied amounts. For me it works fine to interchange kosher or sea salt but not regular iodized salt. I use 2 teaspoons of kosher salt in this recipe but if you use regular salt you'd want to reduce to probably 1.5, according to taste. I used to use several kinds of salt in my cabinet but space is at a premium and Diamond Kosher tastes great and works well. So I use that for almost everything now. I do have a jar of Maldon I sometimes sprinkle baked goods with. Again, <a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/gallery/ina-garten-pantry-essentials">if it's good enough for Ina Garten</a> it's good enough for me.<br />
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<b>Baking soda-</b> I buy Arm and Hammer and keep it in <a href="https://amzn.to/2KfjjUi">this functional and attractive air tight container</a> I found on clearance at the grocery store years ago. When I dropped mine on the tile a few years ago and broke it, I replaced it full price on Amazon right away.<br />
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<b>Flour-</b> I use Gold Medal all purpose flour. I like to use freshly ground whole wheat flour for pancakes, waffles, rolls, etc, but for cookies I stick to the classic. I'm not pretending it's healthy magical white flour. Makes a good cookie though. I keep several bags in my spare fridge so I never run out. I buy the standard 5 pound bag and it fits in the <a href="https://amzn.to/33fFktx">same canister</a> I use for my sugar (as seen above). I like using the smaller bags and storing them airtight so my flour is always fresh.<br />
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<b>Chocolate chips-</b> I like to use semisweet chocolate for at least half of the add ins. Sometimes I'll add some mint chips, M&Ms (I get the big canister of plain ones at Costco and store it hidden away in the corner of my pantry with the baking stuff), toffee chips, milk chocolate chips (my kids favorite), etc. My personal favorite combo lately is semisweet chocolate chips and M&Ms. That's probably the most common cookie in <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anne.strawberry/">my Instagram feed</a>. I prefer Ghirardelli, Guittard, Trader Joe's, or Costco (Kirkland) brand chocolate chips (only available in fall/winter at my Costco so I stock up) and don't generally buy Nestle. Everyone has a favorite and it will effect the taste of your final product. My favorite is Kirkland, or TJ's when it's off season.<br />
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All that to say- there's a million ways to make a chocolate chip cookie. They're generally delicious regardless of how you make them. This is my (current) method and it will probably continue to evolve. Leave a comment if you have a special tip or favorite kind of chocolate I should try.<br />
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One last thing about method- a lot of recipes call for chilling the dough and I appreciate that. However, I usually have lots of kids clamoring for cookies so I generally skip that step.<br />
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<u><b>Anne's (Current Favorite) Chocolate Chip Cookies</b></u><br />
by Anne Strawberry<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Rd7zeYX4onJpvlNVC77cgL94CdZA5QlVDpbR_7-jxjs/edit?usp=sharing">(Printable version)</a><br />
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1.5 cups packed dark brown sugar<br />
3/4 cup white sugar<br />
3 sticks barely softened butter (1.5 cups)<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 teaspoons vanilla<br />
3.5-4 cups flour<br />
1.5 teaspoons baking soda<br />
2 teaspoons kosher salt<br />
3 cups of chocolate chips or M&Ms<br />
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Preheat the oven to 350.<br />
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Cream sugars and butter until light and fluffy (takes 1-2 minutes in my stand mixer depending on the temperature of the butter). Mix in eggs and vanilla for another minute. Scrape down sides of bowl to make sure everything is evenly incorporated.<br />
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Add in the flour (reserving a half cup or so), baking soda, and salt. Pulse mixer slowly until combined. Add the rest of the flour if the dough seems too tender. I usually use all 4 cups but your measuring style, temperature, etc will impact the amount needed. The dough should be pretty strong and able to hold its own, otherwise the cookies will be too fragile and a little greasy. Mix in chocolate chips gently, just enough to incorporate.<br />
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Scoop cookies on to <a href="https://amzn.to/2Yr5LOb">Silpat</a> lined baking sheet and bake for 9-10 minutes, until they look just about done and are starting to barely golden on the edges. Enjoy. Cookies freeze beautifully in airtight packages. I think they also taste best on the second day.<br />
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A note about scooping cookies- it's quite easy and worth it for the uniformity alone. I usually put 12 cookies on a regular tray but if I'm in a hurry (or trying to minimize oven on time) and the cookies aren't too "spready" I'll put 15 on a tray (3 by 5 pattern instead of the usual 3 by 4). I always use my <a href="https://amzn.to/2MGJYez">Pampered Chef Medium Scoop</a> to portion out the cookie dough into "regular" size cookies. I got this scoop in 2003 and have made approximately three million cookies with it and it's still going strong. Big advocate for the real deal here, if you know someone. I do have several other sizes of scoops I've bought in person, on Amazon, etc. Some hold up well and some don't. My nearly 20 year old Pampered Chef scoop is still trucking. Little cookies are fun for kids or for parties when people want to try lots of things or not look like they're eating big dessert (looking at you, bridal and baby showers). Big cookies feel extra special for big day- I just bought the large Pampered Chef scoop to replace mine from the local big box store.<br />
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If I have any leftover cookie dough I scoop it with my small scoop and freeze the balls on a plate or in a flat plastic food container. Once they set I transfer them to baggies and store them in the tiny nonsensical shelf on the top of my side by side freezer. My 4 year old calls these "ball cookies" and prefers them to the finished product. I regularly see my hungry 12 year old walking by to snitch them. He doesn't think I know. I know. I also know he's happier when he's not hungry and I don't mind him sneaking a little cookie dough occasionally.<br />
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Thanks for sticking with me on this ridiculously long cookie treatise. Leave a comment with your big feelings about chocolate chip cookies. We all have them.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Affiliate links used and theoretically support my expensive vanilla habit, although you should definitely post more than once every two years if you're looking to successfully monetize a blog. Now that I think about it I don't think the affiliate links even pay the hosting bills around here. So let's say "used affiliate links kind of keep this neglected food blog running."</span></i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-73043762632692375802017-11-29T10:44:00.002-07:002017-11-29T10:49:34.309-07:00Salted Caramel Oatmeal Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5uRRy4HdxBXqXnGBb-csBUv2c2DZCYIMWdP0eJhCDkgZypa1buT6fhNubGVh60rGdkYR0PiCKcmZFUXbCor83XiCMPmVr0x9-NBl9ypqOaEbh6aRkEDU_w_QizCNgwDhipPHPgUccIY/s1600/Salted+caramel+oatmeal+cookies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga5uRRy4HdxBXqXnGBb-csBUv2c2DZCYIMWdP0eJhCDkgZypa1buT6fhNubGVh60rGdkYR0PiCKcmZFUXbCor83XiCMPmVr0x9-NBl9ypqOaEbh6aRkEDU_w_QizCNgwDhipPHPgUccIY/s400/Salted+caramel+oatmeal+cookies.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I might not make time to blog anymore but I find myself in the kitchen more than ever, with four growing children and a hungry husband. This year we moved to a new home a few minutes down the road. We're closer to family, closer to work, and have a beautiful new kitchen. There's a big bar for the kids to sit and eat at (this alone has simplified my life). I have lovely solid surface counter tops that make rolling out pie crust an absolute joy. We also have a little more counter space to spread cookie sheets out on. My oldest daughter is eight now and has become my perfect sous-chef, stirring, spreading, and chopping along the way. It's wonderful to share the kitchen with someone eager to help. I remember that feeling of excitement as I learned to create something delicious and try hard to encourage her. Lately we've watched the Great British Bake Off together in the afternoons then we head into the kitchen to make a treat or work on dinner together, often incorporating their "theme" into our projects.<br />
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Cookies are a perennial favorite around here and this new recipe is moving straight into my cookbook of tried and true recipes. I've never been much of an oatmeal cookie fan- truthfully, I've only learned to appreciate oatmeal at all as an adult and very recently. But these cookies came highly recommended from a trusted source and had the words "salted caramel" leading the title. So I shrugged my shoulders and said as Ina does, "How bad can that be?" In shocking news, butter, sugar, and caramel are absolutely delicious. The edges are a little crisp, the center soft and chewy, and the unexpected burst of caramel and salt make for a perfect cookie.<br />
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I've made this recipe a couple of times now and expect it to stay on permanent rotation. Thank you to Kelly Gordon from my favorite podcast <a href="http://www.sortaawesomeshow.com/">Sorta Awesome</a> for the great recommendation. 2017 has also been the year of podcasts for me. I started listening a couple years ago but this year we prepped our old house to sell and moved into our new home- which meant a ton of time to listen as I packed, painted, unpacked, and reorganized our lives. Podcasts have brought me laughter, learning, and even a little companionship as I plow through another sink full of dishes or load of laundry. Are you a podcast fan? I'd love to hear what you're listening to!<br />
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I know my phone camera shot isn't up to 2017 food blogger standards, but this little corner of the internet is also my personal resource for saving and accessing my recipes. I also thought this delicious recipe needed to be shared asap with all the impending holiday baking and didn't want to hold out while I made another batch and took another photo. I hope you'll give it a try.<br />
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<a href="http://amzn.to/2ndNhig">Caramel chips</a> are available at my local grocery stores near the chocolate chips (usually on the bottom shelf). These tiny balls of caramel can be subbed into any cookie recipe just like chocolate chips. I've started to keep several bags in my pantry because they really up the ante with your basic cookie recipe. Try them in your favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe next time. You can buy them on <a href="http://amzn.to/2ndNhig">Amazon</a> as well.<br /><br />I'm not around here too often anymore but can find me on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anne.strawberry/">Instagram</a>. I'd love to see you there!<br />
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<b>Salted Caramel Oatmeal Cookies</b><br />
adapted from <a href="http://www.lovewellblog.com/2017/10/salted-caramel-oatmeal-cookies.html">LoveWellBlog.com</a><br />
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Note: It's absolutely necessary to line your baking sheet with parchment or a <a href="http://amzn.to/2jxpyV1">silicone mat</a>. Wait to make these if you don't have those on hand.<br />
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1 cup butter, softened<br />
1 cup dark brown sugar<br />
1 cup white sugar<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 teaspoon good vanilla extract<br />
1.5 cups all purpose flour<br />
1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt, plus more for sprinkling<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
3 cups old fashioned oats<br />
1 packaged (11 ounces) Kraft caramel bits<br />
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Preheat oven to 375. Cream together butter and sugar in mixer until light and fluffy.<br />
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Mix in vanilla, then eggs.<br />
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Gently mix in the dry ingredients (flour, salt, soda, oats) until just barely incorporated. Stir in caramel bits. (Optional- 1/2 cup of chocolate chips in addition is delicious as well!)<br />
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Scoop onto parchment or silicone lined cookie sheet and bake about 8-10 minutes, until they barely start to brown on the edges. They should look a little bit under done when you remove them from the oven. Sprinkle a tiny bit of kosher or sea salt on top of each cookie and enjoy.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Affiliate links included.</span><br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-85524746340513473912016-03-21T05:00:00.001-07:002021-12-21T14:32:02.969-07:00Chocolate Peanut Butter Buckeye Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_anpezSnKfp7-lQUFqrGR_No1bQ-rMhyphenhyphen6GRuzCMwGyeTvs4OUYOxhIl5qyp97Xcd9ubxBaE29hsYwoGT-ArxAsFjPo97BDatG8Bc1BVQK0niW33YjI_oQp3pC68cm2Gg4yuHiPK2iU0/s1600/buckeye+cookies.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_anpezSnKfp7-lQUFqrGR_No1bQ-rMhyphenhyphen6GRuzCMwGyeTvs4OUYOxhIl5qyp97Xcd9ubxBaE29hsYwoGT-ArxAsFjPo97BDatG8Bc1BVQK0niW33YjI_oQp3pC68cm2Gg4yuHiPK2iU0/s640/buckeye+cookies.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
The other day I needed to bake a chocolate and peanut butter treat for a friend. I whipped up a recipe of my favorite chocolate cookies and topped them with Ina's amazing peanut butter frosting. Then I spread on a little semisweet chocolate that I had melted together with a little butter. The end result was delicious and pretty too, in an imperfect way.<br />
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For me half the battle of good cooking is planning ahead. I often double my cookie recipe, scoop it all out with my trusty cookie scoop, and freeze half of the dough in a big baggie. Then I can grab and bake them whenever I need to without even messing up the kitchen (or sneak a bite of cookie dough out of the freezer during the witching hour when I'm trying to make dinner and keep wild babies happy and safe in between driving kids back and forth). There's not any dough in my freezer right now and that situation needs to be addressed.<br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><u>Chocolate Peanut Butter Buckeye Cookies</u></b><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">from Anne Strawberry</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">Yields 3 dozen standard size cookies</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">2 cups Flour </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1 1/4 cups Cocoa powder (Half regular cocoa powder, half Hershey's Special Dark if available)</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">2 teaspoons Baking Soda</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">3/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">3/4 cup Brown Sugar</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1 cup Sugar</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1 cup Butter, softened</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1 extra large Egg, at room temperature</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare baking sheets (Grease or line with silicone baking sheet or parchment paper).</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set dry ingredients aside.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">Cream together the butter, brown sugar and white sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes in the KitchenAid). Add egg and beat well. Add vanilla and mix until well combined.</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">With the mixer on low, slowly add in the dry mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Scoop onto the prepared cookie sheet and squish slightly if flatter cookies are desired (I think the cookies look prettier if they are squished about half way down before baking).</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">Bake for about 8 or 9 minutes. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost with peanut butter frosting and then chocolate. Serve with milk and store in an airtight container.</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><u>Peanut Butter Frosting</u></b><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">inspired by the lovely </span><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/chocolate-cupcakes-and-peanut-butter-icing-recipe/index.html" style="background-color: white; color: #e74343; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px; text-decoration: none;">Ina Garten</a><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"> (aka Barefoot Contessa) </span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1 cup creamy peanut butter</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1 cup unsalted butter, softened</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">3-4 cups powdered sugar (as needed)</span><br />
<span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1/4 teaspoon kosher salt</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span face="'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1/4 cup heavy cream (as needed)</span><br style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><br />
<div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">
Cream the peanut butter and butter in a stand mixer. Mix in half the powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla and salt and mix until combined. Add in additional powdered sugar and cream as needed until desired consistency is reached. If it's difficult to spread the frosting on the cookies, thin it with a dash of cream.</div>
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<b><u>Chocolate Topping</u></b></div>
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<div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (I prefer Ghirardelli or Guittard- chopped chocolate bars are even better here)</div>
<div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">
4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) butter</div>
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<div class="instruction" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Trebuchet MS", Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">
Melt together over a double boiler or in glass bowl in a microwave on low power (I usually use 30% power and stir ever 30 seconds or so). Pull off heat when about 90% melted and stir by hand until totally smooth. Spread a tablespoon or so over the frosting on each cookie. Let set on the counter or place in the fridge for a few minutes until chocolate is set. Enjoy!</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-27704368920403413802016-03-15T15:45:00.000-07:002016-03-15T15:46:18.661-07:00Strawberry Pie for Pi Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIDAsmwma20dRIOUKR474P8k-voN9V__6KLLolAmJrxpihB78iGZV5jDFbtS7DH8wePa6dvs7ZbHHFQqcAymYVxP4bt8FzSMdBa0JQBLdSqc-mTzQEXp5W9qrkyhw1OBCgWARgR5mbGI/s1600/IMG_0883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqIDAsmwma20dRIOUKR474P8k-voN9V__6KLLolAmJrxpihB78iGZV5jDFbtS7DH8wePa6dvs7ZbHHFQqcAymYVxP4bt8FzSMdBa0JQBLdSqc-mTzQEXp5W9qrkyhw1OBCgWARgR5mbGI/s640/IMG_0883.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Happy Pi Day! Did you make or eat a pie to celebrate? Making a <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/search/label/Pie">pie</a> feels so therapeutic to me that I really appreciate the excuse. I love to roll out the crust, concoct a filling, and crimp the edges. The long baking time only adds to the anticipation. Yesterday my little blondies helped me make a pie in honor of Pi Day. I needed something the whole team could eat, and with the food allergies around here that means no dairy and no eggs (we have a few others to contend with but they aren't typical pie ingredients.) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So fruit pie won out and a dairy free crust (no egg wash of course!) Strawberries are on sale around here this week so I turned to my <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/annestrawberry/baking-pies-cheesecake-and-cobblers/">Pie Pinterest board</a> and took inspiration from this gorgeous <a href="http://www.butterandbrioche.com/strawberry-balsamic-slab-pie/">Strawberry Balsamic Pie</a>. I used my beautiful <a href="http://amzn.to/1R1iLew">Emile Henry</a> pie pan I scored at TJ Maxx for a traditionally shaped pie. I followed my mom's all shortening <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2008/06/pie-crust-and-quiche.html">pie crust recipe</a> so I didn't offend the non-dairy team, made an imperfect lattice crust (my kids LOVED weaving it) and brushed it with almond milk. I sprinkled sanding sugar on top and baked it. It came out juicy and fragrant with red color that can't be beat. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Strawberries and balsamic vinegar make a delicious combo. I like the mix some sliced fresh strawberries with a shake of vinegar and some sugar to form a syrup- then I serve them with whipped cream (add a sprinkle of black pepper if you're adventurous). You can't pinpoint the vinegar flavor but it really enhances the strawberries. The same is true of this pie. I didn't use as much as the inspiration recipe called for because my bottle ran out, but it really enhanced the strawberries.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">I usually prefer a fresh strawberry pie but this was a fun change and a good change to walk my kids through the whole pie making process. I don't want them to grow up afraid to experiment in the kitchen. I've certainly made my share of imperfect pies and desserts, but as Ina says, "flour, sugar, butter, how bad can that be?" Even messy pies are usually delicious- especially topped with a little vanilla ice cream. You can always use a crust from the store, too, and experiment with fillings. Pie making is a lot of fun and doesn't have to be stressful! Local friends- if you'd like to come over and make a pie and have a play date, let me know. I promise it's fun and the experiment is always delicious.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, times new roman, serif;">PS- I finally started a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anne.strawberry/">foodie instagram account</a> as @anne.strawberry . I'd love to see you there! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ5I92iz26rCXz7FAYUFoXDoMmCthw_gFMtx0CWQkov1wrm0hZSCXMK6V2ywM3p7wDyxZ9q0O1qINRqRRiKTnrjyG0-omdA2s-WWdtCmdGqSxYMnh8VdwKbcpw-n-eHMpJl6lFS5WCWPs/s1600/dorie+pie+crust.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ5I92iz26rCXz7FAYUFoXDoMmCthw_gFMtx0CWQkov1wrm0hZSCXMK6V2ywM3p7wDyxZ9q0O1qINRqRRiKTnrjyG0-omdA2s-WWdtCmdGqSxYMnh8VdwKbcpw-n-eHMpJl6lFS5WCWPs/s640/dorie+pie+crust.jpg" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Pie making can be pretty messy with the flour and everything so I always double my recipe to make four single crusts, shape the dough into disks, wrap in saran wrap, then in a labeled baggie (I had a helper do this last time, they look so happy in her kindergarten hand!) and into the freezer it goes. The next time I want to make pie I move them into the fridge the night before or set them on the counter for a little while and all I have to worry about is the filling. Plus, a pie of ready to go pie crusts in my freezer makes me feel all put together, and doesn't take any more time. Dorie says one month in the freezer but I've kept mine, properly wrapped, for a few months with no problem. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">One last pie tip- <a href="http://www.doriegreenspan.com/">Dorie</a> suggests crushing up a graham cracker or two into the bottom of the crust before adding the filling to help absorb some of the extra liquid. Even with juicy strawberries my pie came out just right (and the graham crumbs totally disappear so you have no idea it was there!)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie56x-OXTFPGeENDHm0CD_u5vpB-3FM_zMFAGkXpZNbUFjGiJju5mdwPqD3ydp-d5h-LRs4Xf544Q2rY2kg8y0HLKNxI5i7HeEA5byrlCCkzUDmU9nI2Rx8JdPALEtcXfDn5V5xtpytO0/s1600/09fe1d8d-131f-4256-b33f-1ab470e7f755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie56x-OXTFPGeENDHm0CD_u5vpB-3FM_zMFAGkXpZNbUFjGiJju5mdwPqD3ydp-d5h-LRs4Xf544Q2rY2kg8y0HLKNxI5i7HeEA5byrlCCkzUDmU9nI2Rx8JdPALEtcXfDn5V5xtpytO0/s640/09fe1d8d-131f-4256-b33f-1ab470e7f755.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Strawberry Pie</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 double pie crust (<a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2008/06/pie-crust-and-quiche.html">easy dairy free crust here</a>, or butter crust recipe below. Use whatever crust you prefer!)</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">3 pounds fresh strawberries, quartered</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 apple, grated (I used a gala, any kind should work)</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1/4 cup sugar</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 tablespoon <a href="http://amzn.to/1QVPHHr">Ultragel</a> or 2 tablespoons cornstarch</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">1/2 teaspoon vanilla</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">dash of kosher salt</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">2 graham crackers</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Preheat the oven to 425. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Combine filling ingredients in a large bowl. Line pie pan with one crust. Crumble up graham crackers and sprinkle into the pie crust. Pour in and smooth filling. Top with additional crust (whole or lattice, whatever you prefer. Either way make sure there's holes to vent the pie). Crimp the edges as desired. Brush with a beaten egg or milk and decorate as desired- with additional pie crust shapes cut with cookie cutters, sprinkled with sugar or sanding sugar, etc.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Bake for 10 minutes, reduce heat to 350 and bake for 45-60 more minutes. Watch the crust and add a foil tent if it starts to brown too much (usually about half way through). Let cool and serve with vanilla ice cream.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.56px;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Good for Almost Everything Pie Dough</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">adapted from Dorie Greenspan</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">Ingredients</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">3 cups all-purpose flour</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1/4 cup sugar</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">1 teaspoon salt</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">2 sticks very cold unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon-size pieces</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">3/8 cup very cold (frozen is even better) Crisco (plain, not butter flavored), cut into 4 pieces</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">About 1/2 cup ice water</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">Put the flour, sugar and salt in a food processor fitted with a metal blade; pulse just to combine the ingredients. Drop in the butter and shortening and pulse only until the butter and shortening are cut into the flour. Don't overdo the mixing—what you're aiming for is to have pieces the size of fat green peas and others the size of barley.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">Pulsing the machine on and off, add 3 tablespoons of the water—add a little water and pulse once; add some more water and pulse again; and keep going that way. Then use a few long pulses to get the water into the flour. If after a dozen or so pulses, the dough doesn't look evenly moistened or form soft curds, pulse in as much of the remaining water, or even a few drops more, to get a dough that will stick together when pinched. If you've got big pieces of butter, that's fine. The dough is ready and should be scraped out of the work bowl and on to a smooth work surface. (be careful not too add too much water- if the dough looks dry after adding most of the water, pinch it with your hands to check if it's coming together, and finish combining it by hand)</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15.4px; line-height: 21.56px;">Shape the dough into a disk and wrap it. Refrigerate the dough at least 1 hour before rolling. The dough can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 1 month.</span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-69983062120529273082015-11-20T06:00:00.000-07:002015-11-20T06:00:09.684-07:00Favorite Things List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBUAfe0guE_cOdITjUF4-ceHqCVH75z5eXbBGnmMSuzmcmPhFZ8wq0T2krkKPwLfczpNjET6C7mTejZs3Ydg4Q7nuTbyzanwqbQyHpqUy-iT6Il3_ZCnUQlKBbXQB3oudgKu11QlWjbg0/s1600/Favorite+Things+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBUAfe0guE_cOdITjUF4-ceHqCVH75z5eXbBGnmMSuzmcmPhFZ8wq0T2krkKPwLfczpNjET6C7mTejZs3Ydg4Q7nuTbyzanwqbQyHpqUy-iT6Il3_ZCnUQlKBbXQB3oudgKu11QlWjbg0/s640/Favorite+Things+2015.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Christmas is almost here! It's snuck up on me again this year because they weather stayed warm for so long. I wanted to make a list to share of things that we've loved at our house this year. I would love to hear your favorite things, too.<br />
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<b>KIDS</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mC3jCTMWNDVmVIZ2SW_18veg4xlQcsIFSqrH99QZRBXGg4_fY7mZs6vsqSyG-WYAzfMTMJn1gxAMZy8uWSUtv99JyRRxYdEvRlx_4dA5bE9qmySaWlTqpnuvAQxMo01fZ8pMtB2-Avc/s1600/magnatiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4mC3jCTMWNDVmVIZ2SW_18veg4xlQcsIFSqrH99QZRBXGg4_fY7mZs6vsqSyG-WYAzfMTMJn1gxAMZy8uWSUtv99JyRRxYdEvRlx_4dA5bE9qmySaWlTqpnuvAQxMo01fZ8pMtB2-Avc/s400/magnatiles.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1QN7O38">Magnatiles</a><br />
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Whenever someone asks for toy suggestions, Magna-tiles come to mind first. They are fun and easy to use, quick to clean up, and don't have any small parts for babies to choke on. My kids have made structures taller than them! Ours are stored in two clear plastic shoe boxes and only take a minute to clean up, while still building enormous and varied structures. We have the clear colored sets (they also come in opaque colors). These are a toy investment but it's easy to add on more sets if you want to start small. These would also be a great idea for the grandparent's that aren't sure what to get. I've watched kids from ages 2-12 build these for whole afternoons at a time. My kids are hoping for <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Magna-Tiles%C2%AE-ICE-32-Piece-Set/dp/B00PRAZN1E/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=2HLM7V6RQMCJRIDQ&creativeASIN=B00PRAZN1E">the clear set</a> this year (my daughter wants them to build Elsa's castle).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQv4cbyVF7YPymPhesr_bmlZi2hdJz5Ruc2nqqMZNS3Hv-BClwbO7vUUXL2HHAW6FBt_c5g3LXolXaKGSf-zih7sCj8h6dHBBJfBgNSP7p0IzUQz2EhxG0CXTx1wBSbqmmG_mjYLB_oU/s1600/41S49xiSyVL._AC_UL160_SR160%252C160_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQv4cbyVF7YPymPhesr_bmlZi2hdJz5Ruc2nqqMZNS3Hv-BClwbO7vUUXL2HHAW6FBt_c5g3LXolXaKGSf-zih7sCj8h6dHBBJfBgNSP7p0IzUQz2EhxG0CXTx1wBSbqmmG_mjYLB_oU/s320/41S49xiSyVL._AC_UL160_SR160%252C160_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love Legos as much as the next mom but the first time you accidentally step on a Magna-tile, you'll see one of the reasons I prefer them to Legos most of the time. These are available on <a href="http://amzn.to/1QN7O38">Amazon</a> and at Target. There are a lot of knock off brands but I haven't tried them. I will say we've used our <a href="http://amzn.to/1QN7O38">Magna-tiles</a> almost daily for a few years, on hard tile, with push toys and books and kids all over, and none have chipped or broken.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Nosefrida-Aspirator-filters-Additional-Filters/dp/B00FZN2YGU/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=KEGOIQTS2UH2OTMR&creativeASIN=B00FZN2YGU">Nose Frida</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf_5qb5yUNSnu8P9IrrlrlBvJXM0yY3puVCc16Vy0-uOk_5bg29270R94jKT9A8rhSLB-2sCdBo2a-w4BsLo9k9tuXvivBCyp413lCpbCehjLrrrHSTWYABfTz2MuHpnLNs6QxtpI3P40/s1600/nose+frida.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf_5qb5yUNSnu8P9IrrlrlBvJXM0yY3puVCc16Vy0-uOk_5bg29270R94jKT9A8rhSLB-2sCdBo2a-w4BsLo9k9tuXvivBCyp413lCpbCehjLrrrHSTWYABfTz2MuHpnLNs6QxtpI3P40/s320/nose+frida.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's actually not gross at all. After my baby had Pneumonia and RSV last winter, I buckled down and bought one. I wish I had had <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Nosefrida-Aspirator-filters-Additional-Filters/dp/B00FZN2YGU/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=KEGOIQTS2UH2OTMR&creativeASIN=B00FZN2YGU">this</a> with each of my babies! Easy to use, easy to clean, makes a big difference. It's so scary when baby is congested and sick and for me it always seems to happen in the middle of the night which makes it extra stressful. It's not as fun as a new outfit, but I'm sure the new mom in your life would get a lot of use out of this weird but useful thing.<br />
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Bonus-<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNjNcxCE-HwzigH5tuFlRUVtEP4O1_BJ9EWhiAgnYf4NRZ1T1NFCSeWTzlJaXhV_qoc4eyzvrw5TlQpYTOQbzCesC8vu7NfLWVw0nDPJoKJXyhK-v9BAdKeTWRvD-pkbDWyphMeVrn3bs/s1600/treasure+hunt+for+boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNjNcxCE-HwzigH5tuFlRUVtEP4O1_BJ9EWhiAgnYf4NRZ1T1NFCSeWTzlJaXhV_qoc4eyzvrw5TlQpYTOQbzCesC8vu7NfLWVw0nDPJoKJXyhK-v9BAdKeTWRvD-pkbDWyphMeVrn3bs/s320/treasure+hunt+for+boys.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1j8uqgS">Priddy Baby</a> makes our favorite board books. The pictures are vibrant and clear. We keep the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Treasure-Priddy-Books-Little-People/dp/0312508182/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=V5YONKLPAE7GG4PV&creativeASIN=0312508182">Treasure Hunt books</a> in our car and every kid wants to look at them.<br />
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<b>BOOKS</b><br />
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1QNaPQY">Big Magic</a> by Elizabeth Gilbert<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2Zw4MwIdwGA_LIaEVr8eA-19ww7y0RTsKd8XC6ZJAwRk01fIyApM1REZwiqxan1MLqqNdNTs2gRGurHtlWQSM8pJhaUC2KYiMs-Dd1GmkaK_8Fn19c9lUk2tHaEw01buxaTBlfmo-gI/s1600/51YIrJrPxXL._SX327_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs2Zw4MwIdwGA_LIaEVr8eA-19ww7y0RTsKd8XC6ZJAwRk01fIyApM1REZwiqxan1MLqqNdNTs2gRGurHtlWQSM8pJhaUC2KYiMs-Dd1GmkaK_8Fn19c9lUk2tHaEw01buxaTBlfmo-gI/s320/51YIrJrPxXL._SX327_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
I don't consider myself an artist but I love how Elizabeth Gilbert's book <a href="http://amzn.to/1QNaPQY">Big Magic</a> shows how creativity is within each of us. She encourages growth, learning, and living true to yourself- all mixed in with inspiring stories and beautiful words. Her <a href="http://www.elizabethgilbert.com/magic-lessons/">podcast</a> is a lot of fun, too.<br />
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<b><a href="http://amzn.to/1QNb3ro">Habitat</a> by Lauren Liess</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifi9o8RN2yKAFFbUtCp-TbdFeMuvKXcQ_HRdJc7w3VGn28J2VYKW_8YM50QJrvrbHYMoV7zHY7kVfpoP_-JnHWs4nwmCEj45tKI7iUmBM3Jcw5f5MYmUNOdJsqU1YtfG3jvUaudnn-NxU/s1600/61TwQlilEWL._SX408_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifi9o8RN2yKAFFbUtCp-TbdFeMuvKXcQ_HRdJc7w3VGn28J2VYKW_8YM50QJrvrbHYMoV7zHY7kVfpoP_-JnHWs4nwmCEj45tKI7iUmBM3Jcw5f5MYmUNOdJsqU1YtfG3jvUaudnn-NxU/s320/61TwQlilEWL._SX408_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_+%25281%2529.jpg" width="262" /></a></div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1QNb3ro">I got this</a> for my mom's birthday and she actually squealed when she opened it. Lauren Liess has classy and distinctive style that is a pleasure to behold. I've only flipped through this book (because my mom is still hoarding it) but it's absolutely beautiful and inspiring.<br />
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<b><a href="http://amzn.to/1QNbcuV">Design Mom</a> by Gabrielle Blair</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhREax2TgzjIHLlk2wTuRBT-p-2DdiNuHySMHdnoM9Ho4W_5Juvg3wFP-X4iWtE3upau8fHGUGY84jvpqMagJQnwqdrDJMNrMTAXba-rUUzj35pd0k-cgfreY8sDrLFKG7axgFf8j-uEkk/s1600/51sEvOfw18L._SX433_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhREax2TgzjIHLlk2wTuRBT-p-2DdiNuHySMHdnoM9Ho4W_5Juvg3wFP-X4iWtE3upau8fHGUGY84jvpqMagJQnwqdrDJMNrMTAXba-rUUzj35pd0k-cgfreY8sDrLFKG7axgFf8j-uEkk/s320/51sEvOfw18L._SX433_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
I met <a href="http://www.designmom.com/">Design Mom</a> on her book tour and was blown away! I've read <a href="http://www.designmom.com/">her blog</a> for years but she was just so smart and authentic at her signing. <a href="http://amzn.to/1QNbcuV">Her book</a> is lovely and features so many practical and beautiful suggestions for living with kids (<a href="http://www.designmom.com/category/living-with-kids-house-tour/">her blog series</a> is my favorite thing to read each week, too).<br />
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<b><a href="http://amzn.to/1QN7Yri">Secret Paris</a> Coloring Book</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx_viVLC6LhbwePrvumBfvobFRVlwU6_k9FcG2qcclTHSJoZ4m3O0BdJoSCU60J-iId4arE3fbfz_LhCej4AurY5FF-i438U1Qwatlb4uzDETJXzIWwAUiCl_6_HFJoVDCdOVw6m9fYaA/s1600/61IMDT71OXL._SX258_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx_viVLC6LhbwePrvumBfvobFRVlwU6_k9FcG2qcclTHSJoZ4m3O0BdJoSCU60J-iId4arE3fbfz_LhCej4AurY5FF-i438U1Qwatlb4uzDETJXzIWwAUiCl_6_HFJoVDCdOVw6m9fYaA/s1600/61IMDT71OXL._SX258_BO1%252C204%252C203%252C200_.jpg" /></a></div>
I really hope Santa brings me <a href="http://amzn.to/1QN7Yri">this coloring book</a>. The drawings are beautiful and varied (look at the reviews!) I love to sit and color or draw after the kids go to bed while we watch a show on Netflix (Psych lately, what are you watching?) Are you into coloring? My mom's been buying me geometric coloring books since I was in grade school and I love that it's getting to be such a thing now, with new beautiful books coming out every day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVQGxPSp0X8eL6_qtg-eOvreCzAybcuWTDpbbpNXkzvKcNJ3kF6hnzKYoES0g3rVl2Ss7OY0OdGI8WlWZLBWtdTNKWVi-IkHyfmMs-LeKHRbub-yCe_g_pfdzOMvXfLhMcFnCWc7vg24/s1600/12145602_1517365931912580_437911770_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVQGxPSp0X8eL6_qtg-eOvreCzAybcuWTDpbbpNXkzvKcNJ3kF6hnzKYoES0g3rVl2Ss7OY0OdGI8WlWZLBWtdTNKWVi-IkHyfmMs-LeKHRbub-yCe_g_pfdzOMvXfLhMcFnCWc7vg24/s320/12145602_1517365931912580_437911770_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I just got some <a href="http://amzn.to/1QN8cPe">Prismacolor Colored Pencils</a> for myself and can't believe how smooth and nice they are. I love the color selection, the nice trays and tin, and the blendability. My kids know that these are "mommy's pencils" and use their crayolas. I used to think theirs were just fine but my eyes have been opened. So maybe you shouldn't buy these...<br />
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<b>BEAUTY</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbnQ6zcyBDPgE50QLJ0APetvdxPy6OWyPc6l12IRWqzoPycXx8alpA6z23O5ZD0KG_RnTT8x8pgh0VjvHmTrScmEAco3HHlmyZcsh0rUTsAOdMhgy6ny_Rjkma_7-VVnDdnUjA2563xkg/s1600/stile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbnQ6zcyBDPgE50QLJ0APetvdxPy6OWyPc6l12IRWqzoPycXx8alpA6z23O5ZD0KG_RnTT8x8pgh0VjvHmTrScmEAco3HHlmyZcsh0rUTsAOdMhgy6ny_Rjkma_7-VVnDdnUjA2563xkg/s320/stile.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/stila-Waterproof-Liquid-Liner-Intense/dp/B0031NNE56/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=Z4YGZSP7IWGRFMQB&creativeASIN=B0031NNE56">Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner</a><br />
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I felt so validated the other day when I saw that <a href="https://www.amazon.com/stila-Waterproof-Liquid-Liner-Intense/dp/B0031NNE56/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=Z4YGZSP7IWGRFMQB&creativeASIN=B0031NNE56">this is</a> Sephora's top eyeliner. I've recommended it before and keep going back to it. The marker type applicator makes a good cat eye a breeze and works just as well for a subtle line with its tapered tip. It also comes in a lot of colors but I've only tried black (give me all the black eye makeup! And clothes! And furniture! It's a problem.)<br />
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The other product I am consistently asked about is <a href="http://www.sephora.com/blush-P2855?skuId=248930">my blush</a>. I resisted trying this for years because I didn't think it could live up to the hype but it does. Strangers stop and ask me about my blush frequently.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNF75JCE814PYzaoQB0uhfGrxBIU8rfZcdSKegbE5_s-uPWGJwdTlhIU26fotf1nakxiSLRiSTZWw-fIJAWPMVE6zLjfRLXReffvhtcyn2iBfTb4rVoXXnl6MHAgn-ws9H2S8IjMdeMGE/s1600/vinylux.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNF75JCE814PYzaoQB0uhfGrxBIU8rfZcdSKegbE5_s-uPWGJwdTlhIU26fotf1nakxiSLRiSTZWw-fIJAWPMVE6zLjfRLXReffvhtcyn2iBfTb4rVoXXnl6MHAgn-ws9H2S8IjMdeMGE/s320/vinylux.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<a href="http://amzn.to/1QNbkKK">CND Vinylux Nail Polish</a><br />
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I am inappropriately into nail polish. I've tried to give it up and not care but I love it. Doing my own nails takes most of the cost out of it so that's how I make my peace. I've tried a lot of things but recommend <a href="http://amzn.to/1QNbkKK">CND Vinylux</a> to anyone. It's much easier than Shellac (I have this gel system and love it, but it takes a lot of time). <a href="http://amzn.to/1QNbkKK">Vinylux</a> doesn't even need a base coat and the polish lasts a week on fingers- even with persistent dish washing that takes a toll on my hands.<br />
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You can also use <a href="http://amzn.to/1QNbDVZ">the topcoat</a> with any brand of polish. It keeps my girls' nail polish on so much longer than others I've tried, even among professional brands.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhT1b63_yBiszjS-javRHeWaTemvOFVpelrUysDjSdVufuQQDptSyiJtQ6WG5Bhivw8jKWHd0WsoHKQDI_diXSaORK409hotgSoVutFkkijKJxvL7hTsdgKL28_zMUt-kIANiE67BbRQ/s1600/the+wet+brush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivhT1b63_yBiszjS-javRHeWaTemvOFVpelrUysDjSdVufuQQDptSyiJtQ6WG5Bhivw8jKWHd0WsoHKQDI_diXSaORK409hotgSoVutFkkijKJxvL7hTsdgKL28_zMUt-kIANiE67BbRQ/s320/the+wet+brush.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Hair-</b> <a href="http://amzn.to/1QN9rxJ">The Wet Brush</a> & <a href="http://amzn.to/1QN9jOL">Biolage Shine Milk</a><br />
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My best friend does hair and got me hooked on both of these products. I keep recommending this brush because moms keep talking about hair brushing battles with their children. One of my darling blondies has sensory issues and cannot deal with having her hair brushed or washed. A few sprays of shine milk on the ends and she doesn't even mind having her hair brushed when its wet. If you have a sensitive child, I can't recommend <a href="http://amzn.to/1QN9rxJ">the Wet Brush</a> enough.<br />
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I also use it for myself (I prefer <a href="http://amzn.to/1QN9VDY">the paddle brush</a>) because it works well and feels good. I keep a mini brush in my bag and in the bathroom as well because it's just the right size for little hands and fosters independence. They come in a lot of fun prints and colors and are also available at Target.<br />
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Note about knock-offs: I bought a few small off brands at Sally and while they feel good, they haven't held up nearly as well as my <a href="http://amzn.to/1QN9rxJ">Wet Brushes</a>. The bristles bent over and the handles got gummy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_IEv-Cu6mAXZA-_USloLmGiXwWEzLl-9hyphenhyphenDXYOeOsNVZ6hd60sChf2rFT6af1M3gb2LpTHxSGAGNxNVAyyAyiJJDPMSyVoYzRze-CLGbC8G999UDJn9egRjPfjXZ1kNx_W9vtUzKWuMM/s1600/shine+milk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_IEv-Cu6mAXZA-_USloLmGiXwWEzLl-9hyphenhyphenDXYOeOsNVZ6hd60sChf2rFT6af1M3gb2LpTHxSGAGNxNVAyyAyiJJDPMSyVoYzRze-CLGbC8G999UDJn9egRjPfjXZ1kNx_W9vtUzKWuMM/s1600/shine+milk.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1QN9jOL">Biolage Shine Milk</a> is a great, lightweight detangler. It smooths and tames fly aways and dry hair and does a great job refreshing my girls bed head. My friend recommends it for all hair types and uses it on all of her clients after washing their hair. I may or may not have five bottles of this stuff hoarded in my cabinet.<br />
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<b>Wool Dryer Balls</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgGTcg17mqlKAQ1r1In-nufsWQOaQ2-JLg0MhyPB_Re-4vT3xKcSTpN7vlhD6fn8GsAAWG8bXpXWS_fNETt0HV4q4NFgpMB3wU45Ya8owvv7tDY3SRPjv48SlcK0QeqvGR3-Z9qED1Fo/s1600/12081116_1501283516866708_298220776_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgGTcg17mqlKAQ1r1In-nufsWQOaQ2-JLg0MhyPB_Re-4vT3xKcSTpN7vlhD6fn8GsAAWG8bXpXWS_fNETt0HV4q4NFgpMB3wU45Ya8owvv7tDY3SRPjv48SlcK0QeqvGR3-Z9qED1Fo/s320/12081116_1501283516866708_298220776_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
This is a random one, I know. But- these cut my drying time by about 20% and broke my dryer bar habit! We haven't gotten into the driest time of winter yet so I'm not sure how they'll do for static then but as of now, we have no static, no chemicals, and less energy used. Plus, my baby thinks these are the best toy in the house and loves to play with them. Maybe Santa had better buy another set. I've heard you can make them, too, but I've been so happy with <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/221821058902?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&var=520692293420&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT">this reasonably priced set I found on ebay</a>.<br />
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<b>Twirl Dresses</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERRxnhczvdNy0DEsY3QStjYtmPtwFCa9ADKfRGleeLVERi4e57BLNlqFj6WKJRJR2RoilUUxX5jgt-yzBpJOeaSZzAlsndJidoQaR3v9afZbr4eE3Ao8nxSirGHYRcOP1Ywu_wCSNmRk/s1600/Lularoe+Dot+Dot+Smile+Dress+Collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERRxnhczvdNy0DEsY3QStjYtmPtwFCa9ADKfRGleeLVERi4e57BLNlqFj6WKJRJR2RoilUUxX5jgt-yzBpJOeaSZzAlsndJidoQaR3v9afZbr4eE3Ao8nxSirGHYRcOP1Ywu_wCSNmRk/s640/Lularoe+Dot+Dot+Smile+Dress+Collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I can't make a list of our year without including the <a href="http://www.lularoe.com/dot-dot-smile">Lularoe Dot Dot Smile Twirl</a> dress- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMj67YAfK90&feature=youtu.be">the ultimate twirling dress for little girls</a> (click on this link for a 5 second video of the twirling). I mentioned sensory issues above- this dress has single-handedly eliminated clothing battles with my daughter. She picks a dress, I pick a bow, she's dressed and darling. She wears <a href="http://amzn.to/1HZfh87">Playground Pals shorts/bloomers</a> under them so she even wears them to the park and PE. She also wears leggings underneath when it's cold and a cardigan or jacket on top when necessary (we live in Arizona so these are definitely suitable for about 11.5 months of the year here!)<br />
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We buy from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lularoewithlauren/">Lularoe with Lauren</a> but there are consultants all over the country, check out instagram and facebook. These dresses cost more than I normally spend on kids clothes but they are made in the USA and definitely support my new less is more, becoming minimalist policy. I could throw away 95% of the other stuff in their closets and they would never notice. They also broke my 2 year old's Princess Dresses Only Habit that got old after about five minutes. I do laundry so often that having just a few of these works fine- machine wash and hang to dry. Watch the rest of your kids clothes languish (is that good or bad?) I love the Cassie pencil skirts and happy patterned baseball tee's for myself.<br />
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This is a decidedly un-cooking list, but if you are looking for recommendations I have lots of posts for <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/search/label/Tools">my favorite kitchen tools</a>. What's on your list this year? I love reading people's recommendations!<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>*some affiliate links used. that means you pay the same price but a portion of the sale price comes back to me to help support this sorely neglected blog and my Trader Joe's habit.*</i></span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-21749048440337236282015-11-18T15:47:00.001-07:002015-11-18T15:47:32.663-07:00Delicious, Hold-Their-Shape Sugar Cookies (with Raspberry Dust)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxn-ePZmNc0h7AVgfHng8xHqOm_dPsKDFtVfphSiFSX1jhY_9i9gplXWBtgq2l4c3W_McjqFuTW635ca0mOvSBfKJSdN6ICDNtpaoEg9Qv8Njp-c98bp0Pcu_l4vuw55y6u0Wk0IQYnvc/s640/raspberry+topped+sugar+cookies.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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You guys, can we still be friends if I only take photos with my phone? I hope so. Blogging time is short right now, but still have a lot of requests for recipes and love being able to access my favorites here, so quick posts it is. </div>
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I have a tried and true <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2012/01/valentines-cupcakes-brownies-and-sugar.html">sugar cookie recipe here</a> but love trying new ones. This one from <a href="http://nicolephoto.com/2015/08/sugar-cookies-with-strawberries-n-creme-frosting-with-raspberry-dust-2/#more-12233">Nicole Gerulat</a> did not disappoint. She's my favorite photographer and perfect taste. Check out <a href="http://nicolephoto.com/">her site</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nicolegerulat/">instagram feed</a> sometime- so much inspiration! These buttery, chewy cookies have no chemical leaveners (baking soda or powder) so they hold their shape beautifully- perfect for complex cookie cutters.</div>
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The topping on these cookies isn't a sprinkle or glitter but raspberry dust! Trader Joe's Freeze Dried Raspberries, crushed and then sprinkled right on top. I love the pop of beautiful color and the tart taste perfectly compliments the buttery cookie and sweet frosting. Nicole uses a delicious strawberries and cream frosting. I made my <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2008/03/my-favorite-frosting.html">basic favorite whipped cream cheese frosting</a> and added a few teaspoons of frozen berries pushed through a sieve. The subtle pink color and berry flavor was lovely.</div>
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One last word on sugar cookies- with such simple flavors, quality ingredients make a world of difference. Spring for real butter, good vanilla (I love Costco's), etc. Your tasters will thank you! I also like to mix things add by adding in citrus zest to the dough or flavorings to the icing.</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOB4CMWu7Xn-HcafBi21OCnayVvWNwTVgjxyEWyN3EsJdJ5Wb1mwq5uVdEI_UTcj-w6Vt99OZgwGnBevHb72pS3QSgvHEPEGyd_ZcPGv_chyphenhyphen_uC8fdkcNwQo05m9g5VA_GHOIs2zXBRtI/s640/dress+sugar+cookies.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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This cookie recipes works well for royal icing, as well. Let the cookie cool completely and frost as desired (you can see my method here. I am far from a pro but they come out cute enough for my kids- the Queen was so excited about these dresses that I had I hard time keeping her cute little two-year-old hands off them.) Check out <a href="https://www.instagram.com/doughmestichousewife/?hl=en">this instagram feed</a> if you want some really beautiful cookie inspiration! For now I settle for delicious and pretty, if not perfect!</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2yYA4DSwNVi_Rdi8mFJ0b7HX686zYs1yRcUzqs5f9mQyD9BIa13AOLcNNOa_rhoKGAcGQ54JOuGQX57Xuk5HyZZJyci8Il6F0-rTA9Y3bGStsIxyndhcRHiZPgodDKyrm8-uHmYWgIU4/s640/frankenstein+cookies.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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{Friendly Frankenstein's for Baby Strawberry's school Halloween Party, imperfectly iced in the middle of the night to meet a tight deadline, no perfect cookies here!- with <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wilton-Candy-Eyeballs-0-88-Count/dp/B005BPU1P8/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=DHHASSNWDE7AJNEG&creativeASIN=B005BPU1P8">Wilton Candy Eyeballs</a>. My kids LOVE these.}</div>
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<b>Hold-Their-Shape Sugar Cookies</b> </div>
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AnneStrawberry.com</div>
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adapted from NicolePhoto.com</div>
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2 1/4 Cups (4 1/2 sticks) Butter, softened to room temperature</div>
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2 1/4 Cups Sugar<br />
3 Eggs<br />1 tablespoon vanilla<br />1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt<br />
6 cups flour<br /></div>
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Preheat the oven to 325ºF. </div>
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Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle
attachment, cream the butter and sugar until well-combined and fluffy. Add eggs
one at a time until combined. Mix in vanilla. Add salt then add flour a few cups at a
time, mixing very gently and slowly until it's just barely combined. Overmixing will result in a tough cookie.</div>
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Divide dough into two batches. On a floured surface, using a floured rolling pin, roll
out dough to 1/2” thick. Cut with a cookie
cutter. Place cookies 2” apart on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone baking sheet (silpat). </div>
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Bake at 325ºF for 10-13 minutes, depending on size of cookie, until thoroughly cooked, but not browned.
Let cool completely then frost as desired. These cookies keep and freeze very well.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-65597235390825635352015-09-21T16:44:00.001-07:002021-12-21T15:06:08.079-07:00Black and White Chocolate Chippers <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5PFBTAjckr5Kow7aaZWMPWhKRn_msid5qGRheUDyFY2taJ1duNbpJLniMJr6b134x2H9Q3-J1y2MNb1MZIiTukodCB36Av2psCIb3ddxjSCDI8e1SArLaY6TNuNp2qjx8dAsOlnesL-E/s1600/anne+strawberry+black+and+white+chocolate+chipper+cookies+recipe.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5PFBTAjckr5Kow7aaZWMPWhKRn_msid5qGRheUDyFY2taJ1duNbpJLniMJr6b134x2H9Q3-J1y2MNb1MZIiTukodCB36Av2psCIb3ddxjSCDI8e1SArLaY6TNuNp2qjx8dAsOlnesL-E/s640/anne+strawberry+black+and+white+chocolate+chipper+cookies+recipe.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Black and White Chocolate Chippers... just like the mall but even better.</span></div>
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Another day, another cookie recipe, complete with quick instagram photo. I have nothing amazing to report except that everyone loves these. People ask for the recipe all the time so I figured it was time to repost it. The chocolate dough is absolutely delicious and very flexible. My brother in law always requests these with chocolate chips instead of white. I prefer white chocolate, Andes mint, or peanut butter chips in these. Reese's pieces or chopped up Reese's would be delicious too. Or mint M&M's. You can't go wrong here.<br />
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To get the beautiful black color, use at least half <a href="https://amzn.to/3qdOtPH">Hershey's extra dark chocolate cocoa powder</a> if you can find it (they carry it at my grocery store and it has a red label). I'm all for kitchen short cuts but don't forget to sift, or at least stir together with a fork the whole dry team in a bowl so it's evenly distributed. The cocoa powder is always lumpy for me.<br />
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<b>Black and White Chocolate Chippers</b><br />
from Anne Strawberry<br />
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Yields 3 dozen standard size cookies<br />
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2 cups Flour <br />
1 1/4 cups Cocoa powder (Half regular cocoa powder, half <a href="https://amzn.to/3qdOtPH">Hershey's Special Dark</a> if available)<br />
2 teaspoons Baking Soda<br />
3/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt<br />
3/4 cup Brown Sugar<br />
1 cup Sugar<br />
1 cup Butter, softened<br />
1 extra large Egg, at room temperature<br />
2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract<br />
2 cups white chocolate chips (I prefer Ghirardelli or Guittard)<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare baking sheets (Grease or line with silicone baking sheet or parchment paper).<br />
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Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set dry ingredients aside.<br />
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Cream together the butter, brown sugar and white sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes in the KitchenAid). Add egg and beat well. Add vanilla and mix until well combined.<br />
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With the mixer on low, slowly add in the dry mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Fold in white chocolate chips. Scoop onto the prepared cookie sheet and squish slightly if flatter cookies are desired (I think the cookies look prettier if they are squished about half way down before baking).<br />
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Bake for 8-10 minutes. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with milk and store in an airtight container.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-56226151121282102902015-09-01T16:29:00.005-07:002019-08-07T07:59:20.128-07:00Chocolate Chip Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgqso0zWB3XCQLGJ4GnbXW-RnDO9A3v4zLRJoeLDCJNOKwFC_AE2i_RN36ee-1Gy9aD9B9OabRxg81hN9bucBx5HeQecnde2b8T9fw9STGer8wDmzv3HcCFZyyVVlCN_xX89RvipC0a0/s1600/chocolate+chip+cookies+anne+strawberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgqso0zWB3XCQLGJ4GnbXW-RnDO9A3v4zLRJoeLDCJNOKwFC_AE2i_RN36ee-1Gy9aD9B9OabRxg81hN9bucBx5HeQecnde2b8T9fw9STGer8wDmzv3HcCFZyyVVlCN_xX89RvipC0a0/s640/chocolate+chip+cookies+anne+strawberry.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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(Please see <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2019/08/chocolate-chip-cookies-currently.html">this newer post of my current current chocolate chip cookie recipe</a>)<br />
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My kids keep growing up- my little man is in third grade now and Baby Strawberry started kindergarten! That leaves me at home with a baby and a toddler now that school has started. It's unbelievably quiet around the house now that my Chatty Kathy is back in school! I'm trying to get into a good routine and that includes more cooking and baking. Summer heat will end around here soon I hope (haha) and I am already pinning away baking recipes. I've delved into podcasts and try to read grown up books occasionally but seem to spend more time cleaning up after kids than I ever anticipate.<br />
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While I wash dishes and after I drop the kids off, I'm currently listening to:<br />
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/hope*ologie/id914574328?mt=2">Hope*ologie</a><br />
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/spilled-milk/id349527672?mt=2">Spilled Milk</a> (Molly Wizenburg- I LOVED her book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Delancey-Man-Woman-Restaurant-Marriage-ebook/dp/B00DPM7ZWG/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=KNPZ2RNGZMT5T7TR&creativeASIN=B00DPM7ZWG">Delancey</a>. This podcast isn't suitable for kids!)<br />
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/sorta-awesome-megan/id983378923?mt=2">Sorta Awesome</a><br />
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/edit-your-life-show/id1027400535?mt=2">Edit Your Life</a> (from the creator Parent Hacks)<br />
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/magic-lessons/id1018969048?mt=2">Magic Lessons</a> with Elizabeth Gilbert<br />
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/tedtalks-audio/id160904630?mt=2">Ted Talks Audio</a><br />
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/bon-appetit-foodcast/id945390489?mt=2">Bon Appetit</a> (don't miss the episode with <a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/podcasts/article/episode-10-ina-garten-gordon-ramsay">Ina Garten</a>!!)<br />
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<br />
My kids (and I) love:<br />
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<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/storynory-stories-for-kids/id94571049?mt=2">Story Nory</a><br />
<a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/sparkle-stories-podcast/id680194129?mt=2">Sparkle Stories</a><br />
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Do you have any podcasts to recommend? I have The Mystery Show and This American Life on my queue but haven't gotten to them yet.<br />
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My current and always struggle is the perfect chocolate chip cookie. This is the first recipe I ever made on my own and one I always come back to. I've had a few friends ask how I make mine so I'm recording my current method. I like my chocolate chip cookies chewy, chocolaty, and salty. Lots of brown sugar and evenly shaped through a <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2011/04/wednesday-want-cookie-scoops.html">cookie scoop</a>. Temperature of dough, pans, and kitchens also seem to make a difference. I use a half sheet pan with a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Silicone-Baking-Mat-Pack/dp/B00V5IM0EU/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=B76TXQR66EKNGIS4&creativeASIN=B00V5IM0EU">silpat</a>. Has anyone tried the Amazon brand silicone mats? I have several name brand <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Silpat-AE420295-07-Premium-Non-Stick-Silicone/dp/B00008T960/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=NKZB4YCR4L4U2DGQ&creativeASIN=B00008T960">Silpats</a> and a couple knock offs and have been pleasantly surprised. I would definitely recommend one with the cut off corners so it fits nicely in your <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Nordic-Ware-Natural-Aluminum-Commercial/dp/B000G0KJG4/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=K2GLSXMHJVTIKZZU&creativeASIN=B000G0KJG4">sheet pan</a>. If you end up using the same pan again, make sure it's cool before you scoop the dough onto the pan (sometimes I run mine under cool water once they've cooled to the touch).<br />
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A note about the butter: I used to soften my butter until it was super super mushy. Recently I've decided that my cookies turn out better with cooler butter. My kitchen runs hot (Arizona problems) but I only set it out for five or ten minutes and then go for it. It's soft enough for the KitchenAid to make swift and thorough work of the butter but it still completely holds its shape.<br />
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Do you have an ultimate chocolate chip recipe? I've made and posted them so many times but I'm always hunting for the elusive perfect one. I keep telling myself that even if they don't come out perfectly, they're still delicious (remember, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/The-Nesting-Place-Perfect-Beautiful/dp/0310337909/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=NH7GLZR776XNHJ3W&creativeASIN=0310337909">"it doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful!"</a>) My kids never object to a fresh batch!<br />
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<br />
<b>Anne's {current favorite} Chocolate Chip Cookies</b><br />
from Anne Strawberry<br />
<br />
1 cup dark brown sugar<br />
1/2 cup granulated (white) sugar<br />
1 cup (2 sticks) butter- barely softened<br />
1 egg<br />
2 teaspoons good vanilla<br />
1 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1 teaspoon kosher/sea salt + more for sprinkling<br />
2 1/4 cups flour<br />
2 cups chocolate chunks or chips (I prefer semisweet or a mix of milk and dark chocolate, whatever you have)<br />
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Preheat oven to 350.<br />
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Cream sugars and butter in mixer for one minute. Beat in egg until thoroughly combined. Mix in vanilla. Add dry ingredients and slowly mix for about 30 seconds until combined. Mix in chocolate for about 10 seconds (or by hand with a spatula). Be careful not to over mix the dough once flour is added.<br />
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Scoop cookies onto cool cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat. Sprinkle with a bit of salt. Bake 8-10 minutes. Remove cookies to cooling rack and enjoy.<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-89406367520081501052014-12-11T11:49:00.001-07:002014-12-11T11:49:41.455-07:00Last Minute Christmas Gift Ideas<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmWvmYW-aTCLxkUuoVPMmI2BuCGvbWXAGatP9uhqhZHEihKoF6MUKvN8yOjt_HaB9bJTEPBF0do7AhJizeo-yIONiYqRT-QOZDZuNwHYXERwKKOhU51tTGCKPKN_bF2ubbecWyEVzmc0/s1600/scoops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmWvmYW-aTCLxkUuoVPMmI2BuCGvbWXAGatP9uhqhZHEihKoF6MUKvN8yOjt_HaB9bJTEPBF0do7AhJizeo-yIONiYqRT-QOZDZuNwHYXERwKKOhU51tTGCKPKN_bF2ubbecWyEVzmc0/s1600/scoops.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NJ3BJTQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00NJ3BJTQ&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20&linkId=WQR2AYZGGTURVN3K">Stainless Steel Scoops</a>, $5- $15</div>
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One of my favorite parts of the Blogosphere right now is all the holiday
gift lists. Here are a few of the random things I'm loving lately. Do
you have an amazing product you want to shout from the rooftops? Let me
know! I still have a few people left on my list! <br />
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<a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2011/04/wednesday-want-cookie-scoops.html">I've posted about these before</a> but I know there are people out there that still don't use these scoops. These are one of my favorite kitchen tools. I use them to scoop out even cookies, portion batter into muffin tins, make even and round pancakes, and more. They're kind of addicting and even though I'm trying to become a kitchen minimalist, I still want a few more sizes of these. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NJ3BJTQ/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00NJ3BJTQ&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20&linkId=WQR2AYZGGTURVN3K">This multipack is a great place to start</a> and useful to any kitchen. I never make cookie or cupcakes without a scoop. It's just so easy and they look like a million bucks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-Pfj9onuJQZV3EbB-iEJhAP-jN4gFtz2bkZRnd_nK46uyaJuy4OKs46ivUDbVuCYEHN8SSVALWxZrBXiDrkgmZRESRCa_x42lGxj6vp4wkgwYs9aqzx0O804djJB-WbBf4eY9RXPmS0/s1600/magnatiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3-Pfj9onuJQZV3EbB-iEJhAP-jN4gFtz2bkZRnd_nK46uyaJuy4OKs46ivUDbVuCYEHN8SSVALWxZrBXiDrkgmZRESRCa_x42lGxj6vp4wkgwYs9aqzx0O804djJB-WbBf4eY9RXPmS0/s1600/magnatiles.jpg" height="486" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Magna-Tiles%C2%AE-Clear-Colors-100-Piece/dp/B000CBSNRY/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=BX4ZKF7SWXWNMATO&creativeASIN=B000CBSNRY">Magnatiles</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Magna-Tiles%C2%AE-Clear-Colors-Piece-Set/dp/B000CBSNKQ/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=EP5HQ23KICLY544D&creativeASIN=B000CBSNKQ">from $50</a></div>
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Are you still looking for the perfect present for your kids? There are the toy of the year at our house- beloved by all from ages 1-8 (and everyone who comes to play). They are easy to pick up, have no little painful pieces to step or choke on, and encourage a lot of creative building. My kids love to make tall 3D structures and come up with something new every time. They're expensive but well made and really encourage the kind of play that we want. We have the 100 piece set and hope Santa will double that this year. No report on the knock offs but my kids have played hard with these- building and destroying towers, with helpful toddlers stepping on them all along the way. Not one has broken so way to go <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Magna-Tiles%C2%AE-Clear-Colors-100-Piece/dp/B000CBSNRY/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=BX4ZKF7SWXWNMATO&creativeASIN=B000CBSNRY">Magnatiles</a>. We've heard great things about <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Magformers-Rainbow-30-Piece-Set/dp/B002NGOH1W/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=VNIZAIU7MFKRSPK2&creativeASIN=B002NGOH1W">Magformers</a>, too.<br />
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Right now my toddler is mauling the screen while pointing at the Magnatiles picture and asking for more. They really are that good.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLaIQ5D6-Qu-WD9YqUJepA9gbX8uJYQabZVjaeWV64nmAYSU1jgb2MaebjzH20JzRbZXCAFF3tsJBaESV3UWJ1jtMm-Fqtmmont8dvzh0F-Ke2J2GtMg-yU9P8XehjXfRgztGbb7Usw4/s1600/shine+milk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLaIQ5D6-Qu-WD9YqUJepA9gbX8uJYQabZVjaeWV64nmAYSU1jgb2MaebjzH20JzRbZXCAFF3tsJBaESV3UWJ1jtMm-Fqtmmont8dvzh0F-Ke2J2GtMg-yU9P8XehjXfRgztGbb7Usw4/s1600/shine+milk.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Matrix-Biolage-Styling-Agave-Smoothing/dp/B00FFEEPNO/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=HJPNXCVHEHWYT4XD&creativeASIN=B00FFEEPNO">Biolage Shine Milk</a>, $13</div>
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My best friend does hair and got me hooked on this product a couple of years ago. She uses it as a detangler on all of her clients and recommends it for every hair type. It's a lightweight spray with a subtle, fresh smell (I am really anti smell and we have lots of sneezy people are our house and this is highly approved). I spray it on the ends of my hair right out of the shower before brushing. I also use it to style my girls hair. "Baby Strawberry" has curly-ish hair and this adds moisture and defrizzes her hair. It also makes mean work of bed head and keeps their hair soft and nice while reducing the tears and drama of doing little girls hair. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Matrix-Biolage-Styling-Agave-Smoothing/dp/B00FFEEPNO/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=HJPNXCVHEHWYT4XD&creativeASIN=B00FFEEPNO">Find it on Amazon</a> or at Ulta. CVS even carries it but they charge an arm and a leg. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ToiN4wgHfFPgAtO7fjDu1-AwwblFeyLOlcHgbXviR2SYNinRx78PC3yOg5bxoBzh58TG2r3MjxMq-Lh1GY0PPa8P1nh7i028nIszRPl1FWywz-slW01aQV-dl6juj3dJg5NpCcqt1dk/s1600/wet+brush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ToiN4wgHfFPgAtO7fjDu1-AwwblFeyLOlcHgbXviR2SYNinRx78PC3yOg5bxoBzh58TG2r3MjxMq-Lh1GY0PPa8P1nh7i028nIszRPl1FWywz-slW01aQV-dl6juj3dJg5NpCcqt1dk/s1600/wet+brush.jpg" height="400" width="131" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/The-Wet-Brush-Metallics-Collection/dp/B008KJMIOE/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=ZPD5CPOJ4VX36IRV&creativeASIN=B008KJMIOE">Wet Brush</a>, $5- $12 </div>
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I can't mention shine milk without thinking of my <a href="https://www.amazon.com/The-Wet-Brush-Metallics-Collection/dp/B008KJMIOE/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=ZPD5CPOJ4VX36IRV&creativeASIN=B008KJMIOE">Wet Brush</a>. This is my go to brush for wet or dry hair. Maybe you already have one but it's come to my attention recently that some people still haven't tried them. They are amazing- even my ultra sensitive daughter can have her good morning rats nest tamed with this brush without a tear. My favorite is the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wet-Brush-Select-Paddle-Black/dp/B00AGZEG4U/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=4OFDWB6ORZVGYUXB&creativeASIN=B00AGZEG4U">paddle brush</a> and we also have <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wet-Brush-Squirt-Pocket-Detangling/dp/B0083OZ14U/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=QOZTW2MTPW6BAYCW&creativeASIN=B0083OZ14U">the little baby brushes</a> for my girls to use and to go in the diaper bag and car. They're available on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/The-Wet-Brush-Metallics-Collection/dp/B008KJMIOE/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=ZPD5CPOJ4VX36IRV&creativeASIN=B008KJMIOE">Amazon</a>, at Target, and I find them sometimes at TJ Maxx. There are tons of knock offs out there but I use the real deal. Has anyone tried both? We tried the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Knot-Genie-Fairy-Pink-Brush/dp/B00APL4OTM/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=L3E5OH3ZLMCB2KQ5&creativeASIN=B00APL4OTM">Knot Genie</a> which came highly recommended but it was not nearly as soft or effective as this. Not impressed.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrq4M0k_ogNXoPN7ZmYE_y7BXy6uK8zp45qpLvbXbmfxKjMvHk86uLXnvuz2Y2BnoOx9UHWf3Cz193VdpX-jCElSH-QRIn7Y6TqTexQmV_levpFUDWGWz0o1wtoIjTQ_3K2YF6kerfM9M/s1600/fleur+de+sel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrq4M0k_ogNXoPN7ZmYE_y7BXy6uK8zp45qpLvbXbmfxKjMvHk86uLXnvuz2Y2BnoOx9UHWf3Cz193VdpX-jCElSH-QRIn7Y6TqTexQmV_levpFUDWGWz0o1wtoIjTQ_3K2YF6kerfM9M/s1600/fleur+de+sel.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Trader-Joes-Fleur-Caramel-Sauce/dp/B0080BKPWY/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=XTALAPNLYXOUMGMK&creativeASIN=B0080BKPWY">Trader Joe's Fleur de Sel Caramel Sauce</a>, $4</div>
<br />
I usually make caramel sauce but you can't beat this one from Trader Joe's. It's only a couple dollars for the cute little glass jar and it's delicious. We like to dip apples in it or drizzle it over ice cream and brownies. I mixed it with powdered sugar and milk to make a caramel glaze for my apple pie at Thanksgiving. No we don't eat it with a spoon out of the jar straight from the fridge that would be ridiculous. Find it at Trader Joe's (see the link here on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Trader-Joes-Fleur-Caramel-Sauce/dp/B0080BKPWY/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=XTALAPNLYXOUMGMK&creativeASIN=B0080BKPWY">Amazon</a>). This would make a sweet neighbor gift with a few yummy apples or on it's own.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3FQQOo_7XIblFAVUdrNNKNhkbshy3QRzWdytKC31AicYrTkI2gsQZsINA9Ocs2I3AP6yrJyRQv-ge2d74oe6sENvSpnl1ULIhe7HbTfU2xnzRvolcJaHfHzkOhCDDo5pSq5LTsQ-IBA/s1600/revlon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib3FQQOo_7XIblFAVUdrNNKNhkbshy3QRzWdytKC31AicYrTkI2gsQZsINA9Ocs2I3AP6yrJyRQv-ge2d74oe6sENvSpnl1ULIhe7HbTfU2xnzRvolcJaHfHzkOhCDDo5pSq5LTsQ-IBA/s1600/revlon.jpg" height="400" width="128" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Bitten-Kissing-Stain-Lovestick/dp/B0082D9RYM/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=PSC3A5NGQLTHHLFR&creativeASIN=B0082D9RYM">Revlon Colorburst Balm Stain, $7</a></div>
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I love the look of lipstick but can't handle it too often. Too many monkeys helping and touching me all day to worry about that! These <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-ColorBurst-Stain-Sweetheart-Ounce/dp/B0082D9T0E/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=CQRMZYWWRFMHHLN5&creativeASIN=B0082D9T0E">Revlon Balm Stains</a> are easy to apply (they look like a giant crayon) and last well. You can layer the coverage for a subtle or bolder look according to your needs. I keep this in my bag and can slip a little on so I look less like the sleep deprived mommy that I am or put on a nice thorough layer for a really bold lip for date night (or girls night, make up is for the ladies really. I think my husband would prefer if I never wore lip color ever again.) At around $5-8 it's easy to experiment with colors (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Bitten-Kissing-Stain-Lovestick/dp/B0082D9RYM/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=PSC3A5NGQLTHHLFR&creativeASIN=B0082D9RYM">this one is my favorite</a>).<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzePrm06rgRgvSLS34_22tzx6tJplIQcd99WncZX3rOWh7YUYqvbhY8hbEK6EzeEm6MJKZbGCfKktOwaPB0Tzg1rMp388nfPFvrZsU0VHwAEi64wBD4BNAD46hMQjRu1cIaZo5E1sGnsE/s1600/10809911_1525937640999671_1405234355_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzePrm06rgRgvSLS34_22tzx6tJplIQcd99WncZX3rOWh7YUYqvbhY8hbEK6EzeEm6MJKZbGCfKktOwaPB0Tzg1rMp388nfPFvrZsU0VHwAEi64wBD4BNAD46hMQjRu1cIaZo5E1sGnsE/s1600/10809911_1525937640999671_1405234355_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
They last a really long time, too, unless your toddler decides to copy mommy. Find them on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-ColorBurst-Stain-Sweetheart-Ounce/dp/B0082D9T0E/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=CQRMZYWWRFMHHLN5&creativeASIN=B0082D9T0E">Amazon</a> or at Target.<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZauOTbad_KsSgBOIumm64SbiFAXgRF7QFXfx1U6wrVbu2b8G2BxQj_KFdsgKD6YgdwLsoyF-yCbeGgdhtX3bxp1mR3247bTfw1D0sWlaRYt8ySVKIP__XLSO3OY-jm3GeqUcEOE0AEM/s1600/Desktop3.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQZauOTbad_KsSgBOIumm64SbiFAXgRF7QFXfx1U6wrVbu2b8G2BxQj_KFdsgKD6YgdwLsoyF-yCbeGgdhtX3bxp1mR3247bTfw1D0sWlaRYt8ySVKIP__XLSO3OY-jm3GeqUcEOE0AEM/s1600/Desktop3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<a href="http://flordeluzshop.com/collections/all?page=1">Embroidered Puebla Tops & Dresses</a>, from $25 </div>
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I love my embroidered Mexican shirt from <a href="http://flordeluzshop.com/">Flor de Luz's shop</a>. It's so happy and pretty and I wear it every time it's clean (much to my Mom's chagrin). I have a few for my girls, too, and have been known to bribe my oldest daughter with a chocolate chip to wear her's at my whim. Look at <a href="http://flordeluzshop.com/products/las-florecitas-blouse">this fancy one</a>! And I love these <a href="http://flordeluzshop.com/collections/el-amanecer-blouse/products/las-florecitas-blouse-black">black tops</a> too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLS02OXrAJClFZbzIXUV9JqfYqj78SdlJz08E57qyi_88vyYwOeOExzsLNc3HP6UwMahhB3_SxoeUEJ9CizNx-E-6LOrp6vjkVQNOvtLz-VJj0MAIIGLjS5KdkH8iUVEOA6f3aiHImJk/s1600/B_B_3_grande.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBLS02OXrAJClFZbzIXUV9JqfYqj78SdlJz08E57qyi_88vyYwOeOExzsLNc3HP6UwMahhB3_SxoeUEJ9CizNx-E-6LOrp6vjkVQNOvtLz-VJj0MAIIGLjS5KdkH8iUVEOA6f3aiHImJk/s1600/B_B_3_grande.jpg" height="400" width="331" /></a></div>
I want Santa to bring this one for my toddler!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiv0W6nZZzmYieFCG7LLLajdedZVI35EbBc2xbMmPSKaUl1CaR5_AzOBoO-zw3IZten6Hiqu4TuUgq7ZjEKr1CBPWThFDm3cPULykjWvpMeygBwjTVCkiJac3_9sMQ2I4F_ya5IpVA0FM/s1600/stila.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiv0W6nZZzmYieFCG7LLLajdedZVI35EbBc2xbMmPSKaUl1CaR5_AzOBoO-zw3IZten6Hiqu4TuUgq7ZjEKr1CBPWThFDm3cPULykjWvpMeygBwjTVCkiJac3_9sMQ2I4F_ya5IpVA0FM/s1600/stila.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/stay-all-day-waterproof-liquid-eye-liner-P253818?skuId=1221084">Stila Stay All Day waterproof liquid eyeliner</a>, $20</div>
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People tell me all the time they're too scared or klutzy for liquid eyeliner. This <a href="http://www.sephora.com/stay-all-day-waterproof-liquid-eye-liner-P253818?skuId=1221084">Stila Stay All Day waterproof liquid eyeliner</a> is my favorite. It's so easy apply- it feels just like you're using a marker. It wears well and lasts all day without flaking and doesn't make my hypersensitive eyes water (I don't use it on the waterline but use a pencil liner there). This makes a great cat eye or a simple subtle line and comes in a ton of colors. It also comes off easily without tugging or pulling on your eye. <br />
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Marc Jacob's also makes an amazing liner (with even sexier packaging) called the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/magic-marcer-precision-pen-P380705?skuId=1505213">Magic Marc'er</a> and it's even blacker. I love it but it costs A LOT and the applicator wears out before the product runs out so I wouldn't recommend it unless you have eyeliners to burn and can afford to replace this every month... which is ridiculous. Don't forget Sephora has a great return policy if you really don't like what you buy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDoW3v792LPlI4Pj7HWxBtm0_ELAQjaiB5dTOLL7GibMvoBWCEJVzcaWYEsDzN3crURbvGich5Wt4fG5Vk_BLMvi96Y0M2L33sDNw1XJXVluTwDQxQTokvo4OS3jA0Ch7N6Mu6i0H30XI/s1600/laminator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDoW3v792LPlI4Pj7HWxBtm0_ELAQjaiB5dTOLL7GibMvoBWCEJVzcaWYEsDzN3crURbvGich5Wt4fG5Vk_BLMvi96Y0M2L33sDNw1XJXVluTwDQxQTokvo4OS3jA0Ch7N6Mu6i0H30XI/s1600/laminator.jpg" height="291" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Scotch-Thermal-Laminator-Roller-TL901/dp/B0010JEJPC/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=EDNSR4BEPIBMG5MQ&creativeASIN=B0010JEJPC">Scotch Laminator</a>, $17 </div>
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I love this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Scotch-Thermal-Laminator-Roller-TL901/dp/B0010JEJPC/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=EDNSR4BEPIBMG5MQ&creativeASIN=B0010JEJPC">Scotch laminator</a>. It doesn't take up much room and is really useful to have around the house if you're a little OCD like I am. I've used it for kids crafts, organizing, church projects, and more. My son is always asking me to laminate a bookmark from school or favorite drawing. It's quick and easy to use (just put your paper inside the plastic sleeve and run it through the feeder) and I love not having to run to the store to laminate something. It comes with some sheets to get you started and you can buy refills at Target or at Michaels (with a coupon) or on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Scotch-Thermal-Laminating-Pouches-TP5903-20/dp/B00342VCH6/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=L56STIYTPZAPDVYL&creativeASIN=B00342VCH6">Amazon of course. </a>This has really come in handy at my house and doesn't take up much room to store. Win win.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcp-YLpInqnQUs96HI0xg6U3xQ1nj-lKZlEE8KGy0O4zdsPcCClvwzlj04avr53KOs3VXs3hwjhBSBfJiCPkz_VpCp7fLAR28jJQsVofNytMjqlnjPyrRAoNZbyUSWwau1i3a4OdOCbF8/s1600/vinylux.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcp-YLpInqnQUs96HI0xg6U3xQ1nj-lKZlEE8KGy0O4zdsPcCClvwzlj04avr53KOs3VXs3hwjhBSBfJiCPkz_VpCp7fLAR28jJQsVofNytMjqlnjPyrRAoNZbyUSWwau1i3a4OdOCbF8/s1600/vinylux.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/CND-VINYLUX-Creative-Manicure-Lacquer/dp/B00EA5B2VW/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=KV5PEDPKSAIYFNQK&creativeASIN=B00EA5B2VW">CND Vinylux Weekly Top Coat</a>, $6</div>
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Nail polish gets better every year! I love hearing about new types and testing them out. My favorite brand is OPI but my special splurge is Gel or Shellac nails. I share the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/CND-Shellac-Light-Official-Lamp/dp/B005EF72IE/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=7PESNB7ALTPHTBSE&creativeASIN=B005EF72IE">CND Shellac System</a> with my mom and sister in law and it makes for an absolutely gorgeous manicure. It's a more time involved process, though, and removal requires soaking. My new go to happy medium polish is the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Nail-Vinylux-Lacquer-Romantique/dp/B00CNFYRCC/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=EOFSTHYG43BAEGLL&creativeASIN=B00CNFYRCC">CND Vinylux</a>. It wears well for a week without chipping and has awesome and reasonably priced colors. It will keep your pedicure looking perfect for weeks, too. I have some of the colors but usually cheat and just use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/CND-VINYLUX-Creative-Manicure-Lacquer/dp/B00EA5B2VW/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=KV5PEDPKSAIYFNQK&creativeASIN=B00EA5B2VW">this top coat</a> over my OPI. When I don't have time for color I just my favorite base coat- <a href="https://www.amazon.com/OPI-Nail-Envy-Original-Ounce/dp/B00178TVXG/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=3CBPXWHJJGTV4JPG&creativeASIN=B00178TVXG">OPI Nail Envy</a>. It strengthens your nails and helps them grow in nicely. It also fills the natural ridges and will protect your nails from discoloring over time from polish so I use it as a base whenever I paint my nails. When I do this for my girls it helps their polish stay on longer, too (are my kids the only ones whose nail polish just chips right off?!) On it's own the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/OPI-Nail-Envy-Original-Ounce/dp/B00178TVXG/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=3CBPXWHJJGTV4JPG&creativeASIN=B00178TVXG">Nail Envy</a> dries in just one minute so I can have shiny clean nails in a hurry.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8sKobgFzoG7cxj9SBvZZeELkeQVcB52s8b8BXUZ-gknnesdKyyLzVRLGEEntfeQKJ-6LecnopMshnqagqb8sUz7tvxitxNpydczTSTE-EhQqTlkq1tBWx1THn1ajZGItbKW3t-2JVH2k/s1600/ebates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8sKobgFzoG7cxj9SBvZZeELkeQVcB52s8b8BXUZ-gknnesdKyyLzVRLGEEntfeQKJ-6LecnopMshnqagqb8sUz7tvxitxNpydczTSTE-EhQqTlkq1tBWx1THn1ajZGItbKW3t-2JVH2k/s1600/ebates.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
The last one isn't a gift exactly but will give you a little pocket change to get yourself something nice after all your online shopping. I've been using <a href="http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=2vrGnUEeRvpou5%2BrByza8Q%3D%3D&eeid=26471">Ebates</a> for years and it's a totally free website that gives you a percent back of your online purchase. All you do is <a href="http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=2vrGnUEeRvpou5%2BrByza8Q%3D%3D&eeid=26471">sign up</a> and sign in and when you go to buy something online, search their site for the store you're looking for. Almost every site I use is there- Gap, Target, Sephora, Macy's, Nordstrom, WalMart, Kohl's, etc. Cash back typically ranges from 3-10 percent and over black Friday weekend I got cash back from each of these places up to 15%! They record your purchase and credit your account after your order is processed. It takes about two seconds of extra work and then you receive payment a few times a year via check or PayPal. It's always a pleasant surprise to see a PayPal credit in my account amidst all the withdrawals! I also use <a href="http://www.shopathome.com/">ShopatHome </a>which is a similar free service and compare who offers the better cash back percentage that day (they vary). Give it a try- it really adds up if you shop online!<br />
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What are you asking Santa for this year? <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Le-Creuset-Signature-Enameled-Cast-Iron/dp/B0076NOGPY/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=RUOBOHSY6B7IDZJL&creativeASIN=B0076NOGPY">Le Creuset</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/b/?_encoding=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&linkCode=ur2&node=2581965011&qid=1418323537&sr=8-1-acs&tag=annestr-20&linkId=QTV4S4XDUBBKLCNI">All Clad</a>? I'm trying to de-highmaintenance-ify myself but let's be honest they are always, always on this cooks wish list. Do you have any awesome products to recommend? <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>*some affiliate links used. that means you pay the same price but a portion of the sale price comes back to me to help support this sorely neglected blog and my Trader Joe's habit.*</i></span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-48539435389608433782014-11-30T16:11:00.001-07:002014-11-30T16:11:29.478-07:00Bread Machine Cinnamon Rolls<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR4QfhcMgLw2Brdo6fcIS21G03TneIXjAuEOqi97LfTxDecR_Si0YeyLSCqAp7nu8hBDLa3pfZL5kbvYeA0IQ8YRlA91wc6n2AGJY3oK5BHsATSJ_EPlHAOXBiwnIeAS_wJxdqoCdk7AU/s1600/DSC_0819e.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></div>
My five year old loves cinnamon rolls and asks me to make them for her at least once a week. We don't indulge that often but I try to at least every month or two. I love to bake with her but it feels like I'm always out of time for a long recipe. My new favorite way to make cinnamon rolls in the bread machine. It doesn't take a fancy machine or any tricks (I have a cheap old one I got for a dollar at the thrift store. Classy. Still dreaming of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002XVUAOU/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002XVUAOU&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20&linkId=Y42YWJHFNG25ATL6">one of these some day</a>, though!) I still love <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2009/09/simple-cinnamon-rolls.html">my favorite recipe</a> from the Bread Baker's Apprentice but I haven't had anyone notice the difference. All you have to do is toss the ingredients into the machine, run the dough cycle, and roll out the rolls as soon as it beeps. <br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgww10VY8U4VFrADW03DMYhlcXQdsIlmyl9arJvch3zVJSZsXwzsEZYMEqtyNV0kuaECw5lcJ4bpWF_28djyyKcDmJfsarvSPbYKmPBenV9Q1X7z6rAUHmkqNG17rBSO7Q33-k0rOrXXkA/s1600/IMG_7028.JPG" height="300" width="400" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR4QfhcMgLw2Brdo6fcIS21G03TneIXjAuEOqi97LfTxDecR_Si0YeyLSCqAp7nu8hBDLa3pfZL5kbvYeA0IQ8YRlA91wc6n2AGJY3oK5BHsATSJ_EPlHAOXBiwnIeAS_wJxdqoCdk7AU/s1600/DSC_0819e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
My go to roll recipe is from Salad in a Jar. She has the best bread recipes. I've adapted this one to be dairy free when I make them for my husband. The recipe is flexible and comes out great even with almond milk and oil instead of the dairy. Don't get me wrong, my KitchenAid is still my favorite and I look forward to hanging out with her but when there's just no time, the bread machine is a viable option for quick and delicious cinnamon rolls with less hands-on time.<br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsMtKg5wwNfwFc0nq1TIxVEd_9rzxBy_DQkCA7r0JNnvg7e8AaAYNPbRjp_uRRODjH7bIQrh15NqHPcquXFXbKgTuNSVX_ooNeFj94ZJgv26wvIRtj4wgm53BNLRllp4eksoe52vqyHI/s1600/IMG_7029.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">{these always get eaten before I get a picture!}</span></div>
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<b>Bread Machine Cinnamon Rolls</b><br />
from Anne Strawberry <br />
adapted from <a href="http://www.salad-in-a-jar.com/family-recipes/favorite-dinner-rolls">Salad in a Jar</a><br />
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1 cup warm milk (I've successfully substituted with almond milk)<br />¼ cup butter (or oil)<br />1 teaspoon salt<br />1 egg<br />3 tablespoons sugar<br />3 cups unbleached flour<br />2¼ teaspoons bread or instant yeast<br />
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1/4 cup butter, softened (I omit this or use a little oil when I'm making these dairy free)<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
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Add all ingredients to the bread machine in the order listed. Run the dough cycle and come back after dough is risen. Roll out dough on floured surface into a large rectangle. Top with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon. Roll into a log and slice into inch thick rolls. Line up on baking sheet and let rise until puffy and doubled. Bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes until golden brown and beautiful. <br />
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Top with your <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2008/03/my-favorite-frosting.html">favorite frosting- this is mine</a>. My husband prefers a simple powdered sugar and milk glaze.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-8682173474944983172014-10-20T11:30:00.000-07:002014-10-20T11:30:11.788-07:00New Cookbooks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEoQkT3EMeT_6XmCrs4q0nkpohSQSxMtUIWmgDuVRMFmO9jRBkK2e4PcRfKrnNyMRyKnJv5V2gZJIcvxUUSrUlQienmHAOzn5YQZgqv1-4IHq8gJzOgsED8vcXjziaywJb4lsoSQxPLiI/s1600/51YKwn5mvhL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEoQkT3EMeT_6XmCrs4q0nkpohSQSxMtUIWmgDuVRMFmO9jRBkK2e4PcRfKrnNyMRyKnJv5V2gZJIcvxUUSrUlQienmHAOzn5YQZgqv1-4IHq8gJzOgsED8vcXjziaywJb4lsoSQxPLiI/s1600/51YKwn5mvhL.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
We interrupt this blog radio silence to let you know that my two favorite cookbook authors have new books coming out this month! <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Make-It-Ahead-Barefoot-Contessa/dp/0307464881/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=WQ4FZWQTJAGDDNON&creativeASIN=0307464881">Make It Ahead</a> from the Barefoot Contessa's Ina Garten comes out next week. It's no secret that I have a serious Barefoot crush. Her recipes always turn out, are flexible, and can please a crowd. Watching her show relaxes me and makes me want to go cook until I drop. I love her. Meeting Ina is on my bucket list and almost happened when her last book came out until Hurricane Sandy changed her book tour schedule and Arizona was dropped from her tour. She's not coming here this time but <a href="http://www.barefootcontessa.com/tour.aspx">maybe she's coming to your city.</a> Go meet her for me! Maybe next book...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTe6KLInz8_nlwhU8dZ_pJOME_UR7DonGMlyqjWM5Ue250JSMegdQtFoIz95E3zGwKPAI5rnIbVvBndzauPOXC4z0EP2pTby7srW5_hkGvFXeReYvQ6d1NPo9idwXIkHFulUK5nuOC5RY/s1600/9109y8NveGL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTe6KLInz8_nlwhU8dZ_pJOME_UR7DonGMlyqjWM5Ue250JSMegdQtFoIz95E3zGwKPAI5rnIbVvBndzauPOXC4z0EP2pTby7srW5_hkGvFXeReYvQ6d1NPo9idwXIkHFulUK5nuOC5RY/s1600/9109y8NveGL._SL1500_.jpg" height="640" width="488" /></a></div>
Dorie Greenspan's new book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Baking-Chez-Moi-Recipes-Anywhere-ebook/dp/B00HK3LS8I/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=AUTM4IGRSAUMBXZW&creativeASIN=B00HK3LS8I">Baking Chez Moi- Recipes from My Paris Home to Your Home Anywhere</a>, is also coming out on the 28th. I've <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/search/label/Dorie%20Greenspan">baked through about 95% of the recipes</a> from Dorie's book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Baking-From-My-Home-Yours/dp/0618443363/ref=as_sl_pc_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&linkCode=w01&linkId=W6MONLYUDDOPONEM&creativeASIN=0618443363">Baking from My Home to Yours</a> and can't say enough good things about them. I loved participating in <a href="http://tuesdayswithdorie.wordpress.com/">Tuesdays with Dorie</a> and can't wait to see this newest book. Her recipes are easy to follow and have taught me skills to apply in other recipes that have been invaluable. The photographs are always stunning in her books, as well.<br />
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Now I'm kind of torn because I don't know which to ask for for my anniversary. Are you ordering these? What cookbooks are you loving these days? I do get a lot of my recipes online but for my real favorites there's nothing like the physical cookbook and I can't wait to get these on my shelves.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aBJiqx9dvEI8eeHAcH4co9_QNC1iEuTJXaX_cusygkhEWyaInaSH_RF5im6QzLOuh2f_PRnPyIaZxqJkC0Vid74ZYk7VKz9WCOTmi5BhftK1yx7eN_Ynm8jBOFDmT5qTp_xbqu8T58o/s1600/INA-GARTEN-1-620x413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aBJiqx9dvEI8eeHAcH4co9_QNC1iEuTJXaX_cusygkhEWyaInaSH_RF5im6QzLOuh2f_PRnPyIaZxqJkC0Vid74ZYk7VKz9WCOTmi5BhftK1yx7eN_Ynm8jBOFDmT5qTp_xbqu8T58o/s1600/INA-GARTEN-1-620x413.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
For the other Ina fans out there, <a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/columns/my-morning-routine/article/ina-garten-favorite-foods">have you read this interview</a>? I loved hearing more about how she really eats and cooks (oatmeal every day! Seriously!)<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-31113401638044854472014-02-10T19:41:00.000-07:002014-02-10T19:41:08.374-07:00Frosted Sugar Cookies for Valentines Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2EL58zuKcDhxivUvbAQkzSZyOQD8YQjbqxIPgKfYFQsEaOzz-fBCNWi1MRtbE466Xg7sgHTc0TmU7WVKXDvpd3lQcg4z6UgRp4aMtjGn2rSOzdKuTrVfUNux_rMhcccLaa9iXbBKyP4I/s1600/swig+sugar+cookies+for+valentines.jpg" height="400" width="400" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2EL58zuKcDhxivUvbAQkzSZyOQD8YQjbqxIPgKfYFQsEaOzz-fBCNWi1MRtbE466Xg7sgHTc0TmU7WVKXDvpd3lQcg4z6UgRp4aMtjGn2rSOzdKuTrVfUNux_rMhcccLaa9iXbBKyP4I/s1600/swig+sugar+cookies+for+valentines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
A while ago a frosted sugar cookie recipe was bouncing around on the internet. I try really hard to give a recipe a shot before I modify it but I'm kind of particular about how I make my cookies. I baked them as is and then a couple more times with my modifications. This is now a tried and true, man, woman, and child approved recipe around here. These cookies are easy to make, cute, and totally happy. The frosting has a little tang from the sour cream and perfectly compliments the slightly sandy yet tender cookie texture.<br />
<br />
I added one drop of red food coloring to the frosting to make it the lightest pink. With that, a <a href="http://www.cakearts.com/jumbo-red-heart-confetti-quins.html">giant red heart sprinkle</a> from the local cake store, and some edible glitter, these were the cutest little valentines cookies- without the painstaking piping that I love but can't work up the will to do most days. I served these to a crowd of men and not one of them whined about the color (and most clamored for more). These would be so easy to modify- add some extracts to the cookies or frosting to change up the flavors. I might have to make a green minty version for St. Patrick's Day!<br />
<br />
<b>Frosted Sugar Cookies aka Swig Cookies</b><br />
from Anne Strawberry<br />
<br />
1 cup Butter (plain shortening is fine, I do this for my dairy free husband sometimes although butter is best)<br />
3/4 cup Canola Oil (or whatever oil you prefer)<br />
1 1/2 cups Sugar<br />
1/2 cup Powdered Sugar<br />
2 tablespoons Milk or Cream (whatever you have on hand)<br />
2 teaspoons Vanilla extract<br />
2 eggs<br />
1 teaspoon Baking Powder<br />
1/4 teaspoon Baking Soda<br />
1 teaspoon Kosher salt (for table salt use 1/2 teaspoon)<br />
5 cups Flour (as needed- start with 4 1/2)<br />
2 tablespoons Sugar, for flattening the cookies<br />
<br />
Cream together the butter, oil, and sugars. Mix in milk, cream, and vanilla until smooth and incorporated. Add dry ingredients and mix gently- adding flour as needed. The texture should be soft but not too wet, just like <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2012/05/snickerdoodles.html">snickerdoodle</a> or chocolate chip cookie dough. Be careful not to overmix the cookies once the dry ingredients are added or the cookies will be tough. Scoop the cookies onto the cookie sheet with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004UE85/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00004UE85&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">stainless steel cookie scoop</a> onto a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00008T960/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00008T960&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Silpat</a> or parchment lined <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00008UA3Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00008UA3Y&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">cookie sheet</a>. Smoosh the cookies down a little bit using a flat bottomed glass or measuring cup dipped in water then sugar (this is optional but will leave a little sugary crust on top and some cute ruffled edges). Bake at 350 for about 8 minutes until the edges barely start to brown. Don't overbake- these will get a little h<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">arder as they cool. Frost with sour cream frosting using a butter knife or offset spatula. These will keep at room temperature for a couple days, tightly covered.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><b>Sour Cream Frosting</b></span><span><br />
1/2 cup Butter, softened (one stick) <br />
1/2 cup Sour Cream</span>
<span><br />
2 tablespoons Milk, as needed<br />1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>dash of salt<br />
6 cups of powdered sugar (more or less to achieve desired consistency, this is a baseline)<br />
1 Tablespoon meringue powder (optional but very helpful! you can find
this in the cake decorating section at Walmart, Michaels, or Joann's. Or on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ZNOVCA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000ZNOVCA&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Amazon</a> of course. It lasts forever and really improves the texture of your frosting.)</span>
<span><br /> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>In a mixer with the whisk attachment, combine the butter and sour cream until light and fluffy. Add in vanilla and salt, and
blend.</span>
<span><br />
Next, add the powdered sugar and meringue powder, cover the bowl of the
mixer with a dish towel, and turn it on low until everything is
combined. Then increase the speed for a minute or so until the frosting
is light, fluffy, and delicious. The meringue powder will help set the
frosting after it dries so it holds its shape.</span> </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If the icing is to dry, add a little more sour cream or some milk.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
Variation:<br />
Add 1 T. Lemon or orange zest and substitute juice for the milk to make a tangy citrus frosting</span></span><span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">. Alternately, you can flavor with mint extract or almond extract. </span></span></span></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-58255316876203570892013-09-09T06:00:00.000-07:002013-09-09T06:00:03.848-07:00Cookie Sheets at Costco<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgK8XOJ0cMQNkck25FF9FcCYLmxL5wJ5OvWCnG1QCMwBtxgKLas9YRRZ2YqC6pDg4iKDvOVcdSKiTeSvz6s5YbkT57g8un3kPyv9j-z3-8FaeDbdnWhuZLjq0te7eKme2JHaAa8Ret2KQ/s640/photo(5).JPG" width="640" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgK8XOJ0cMQNkck25FF9FcCYLmxL5wJ5OvWCnG1QCMwBtxgKLas9YRRZ2YqC6pDg4iKDvOVcdSKiTeSvz6s5YbkT57g8un3kPyv9j-z3-8FaeDbdnWhuZLjq0te7eKme2JHaAa8Ret2KQ/s1600/photo(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
While reading a blog the other day, the author said she wanted to make something in a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G0KJG4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000G0KJG4&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">jelly roll pan</a> but didn't have one. I died a little because my cookie sheets (they're <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G0KJG4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000G0KJG4&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">standard half sheet pans aka jelly roll pans</a> and measure 13 x 18) are one of my favorite kitchen tools. I use mine for cookies, brownies, cinnamon rolls, roasted veggies, chicken, even cupcakes (I always put a pan under the muffin tin to help keep the bottoms from getting too browned). I also use these to carry home dinner, loaves of bread (I usually make about 10 at a time in my Bosch and freeze the rest) or even craft projects when I've been working at my mom's house. The little lip on the side keeps things from tumbling out and they are easy to carry, stack, and use all the time.<br />
<br />
I saw my favorite cookie sheets are available at Costco right now and snapped a picture to encourage you to run and buy some if you don't have them (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G0KJG4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000G0KJG4&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">or get them at Amazon of course</a>). The two pack of NordicWare baking sheets is only $11.99. That's $6 each people! I can tell you from experience the one time I saw one of these pans (used) at the thrift store it was $5 (and I bought it).<br />
<br />
When I was newlywed I foolishly thought there might be such a thing as too many cookie sheets but have since repented of such crazy talk. To be fair, I didn't make hundreds of cookies or cupcakes back then like I do now. So I say the more the merrier with these handy pans. Barefoot Contessa has a huge stack in her pantry I covet every time I see it.<br />
<br />
I've also slowly built up my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00008T960/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00008T960&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Silpat </a>collection and now have one for each of my pans (along with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00008UA3Y/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00008UA3Y&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">plastic lid</a>- they're so handy). <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2011/03/wednesday-want-silpats.html">You can read more about Silpats here.</a> I do not miss greasing my pans or scrubby out gunky pans one bit. Costco also has a three pack of knock off silpats (silicone baking mats). Has anyone tried them? I was kind of dying to buy them just to see how they were. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00629K4YK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00629K4YK&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Amazon has a 2 pack of generics for $16</a> as well. Please let me know if you've used them!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-33785499399595781012013-09-07T12:19:00.002-07:002013-09-07T12:19:57.464-07:00Barefoot Contessa + Tyler Florence (and Winter Slaw)<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilk0UHov9KvbwmpTbhK_ky3_LisbK5ONY1PabWEfGsHJ4oneXDunmmdF1KbVUmrSdIrz9OAxSTcgk7zQDD1VK1WbHBZ7AW59Me_BbupoaVZwaq4qulRRJAWyPzkPBbmtbGmkwzi3OAT8Y/s640/photo%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" />Did
you see the new Barefoot Contessa episode with Tyler Florence? Baby
rosebud and I loved it! It airs again on Monday, September 9th at noon
if you missed it <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/barefoot-contessa/cooking-with-tyler-florence/index.html">(see the details here)</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLAkB-oFaEWGAno-bnhf4qlOQjmTsRORQx4zFiQ1dGBYsMJf49rzd5juVghehbMdsWdZR6EMX6naqx30dsw0tW1FnuYy84bdtxAkcKZK-EQwKrvbs_hAxOV9WEcFZ4UZuTHj3eHKAAQNk/s400/IMG_4798.JPG" width="398" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> {look at them high five, haha!}</span></div>
They
started by making a birthday cake for Tyler's son. The chocolate cake
was made with buttermilk and the batter looked amazing (Ina is a pro
after all). She made a
ganache frosting and stacked the cake up asymmetrically at Tyler's
request. They decorated the whole thing with bright candies that really
popped off the chocolate frosting. It was beautiful (and I might be
heading to <a href="http://www.cakearts.com/categories-baking-pans-rounds-3inchhigh.html">ABC Cake Decorating to finally buy some legit cake pans</a> to make it for Baby Strawberry's FOURTH! birthday next week). </div>
<br />
Then
they went to
Ina's favorite place to buy chicken for Jeffery's dinner every Friday.
My kids loved seeing the chickens and I love Tyler quipping about how
proud he was to hear Ina's secrets. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-hE9TTaA6AQrG_SQoSJ1AIvAKT-_my6AkGQQSKsh_KfvcHoQYQQx5RC6owQBN-l9IqcDgpC8iXuFduLOqdlFxK_ajAG3v_5Atm_yioyLG2JAUWOnSJqiED4US90vnW-87tnMzBlEecg/s640/tyler+and+ina.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">{look how cute they are on <a href="http://instagram.com/p/YfVHY9pzAb/#">Tyler's instagram</a>!} </span></div>
<br />
For lunch, he made Fried chicken and
added whole fresh herbs and garlic to the oil to layer the flavors. The
seasoned flour looked amazing. He added Sriracha to the buttermilk for
even more flavor. I liked his tip to fry only a few pieces at a time to
keep the temperature up. I don't fry things often but after I watched him make this recipe I was dying to make some chicken! <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/tyler-florences-fried-chicken-recipe/index.html">You can see the recipe here.</a><br />
<br />
Ina
made a winter slaw recipe using shredded kale, radicchio, and Brussels
sprouts. With a fresh lemon vinaigrette, craisins, and some Parmesan, it
looked so light and yummy. I made it for dinner that night and while my
husband wasn't sure that it was actually 'Cole slaw' it was great. The
veggies were crunchy and fresh with the light dressing and the sweet and
salty kicks from the cheese and craisins were perfect. It also only
took a few minutes to make so I think it's going into regular side dish
rotation (although the kids aren't happy about that, they looked at me
like I asked them to cardboard or something!)<br /><br />The best part of
the episode was when Ina boxed up the enormous three layer cake and said
"I don't envy you getting this home on the airplane." Haha! I hope you
get a chance to watch it because it was a really fun episode full of
great recipes as well. I'll let you know how that big cake goes (this is
a pretty massive undertaking considering I barely passed Wilton Course 1
Cake decorating at the craft store- the employee was hesitant to give
me the participation certificate, no lie!)<br />
<br />
PS If you're on Pinterest... <a href="http://pinterest.com/inaofficial/">Barefoot Contessa</a>
is finally! It's kind of fun to follow her. If you're a dork like me.
Don't tell my friend Kara I wrote this blog post. She'll die. Hopefully
some of you like Ina like I do. And try the slaw. I'd never had Brussels
sprouts before (seriously) and it was fun and yummy to try them.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Winter Slaw</b><br />
from Ina Garten and Tyler Florence <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/winter-slaw-recipe/index.html">(recipe originally here)</a> <br />
<br />
6 ounces Brussels sprouts, trimmed, halved, and cored<br />6 large kale leaves, center rib completely removed (8 to 10 ounces)<br />1/2 small head radicchio, cored<br />1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice<br />1/2 cup good olive oil<br />1 teaspoon kosher salt<br />1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper<br />1 cup dried cranberries<br />1 (6-ounce) chunk good Parmesan cheese<br /><br />With a very sharp knife, cut the Brussels sprouts, kale, and radicchio across in thin shreds and put them all in a large bowl.<br /><br />In
a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the lemon juice, olive
oil, salt, and pepper. Pour enough dressing on the slaw to moisten it
well. Add the cranberries.<br /><br />Shave the Parmesan in big shards with a
vegetable peeler, add it to the salad and toss well. Check for
seasonings and serve cold or at room temperature.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-37355530073111125862013-09-01T21:53:00.001-07:002013-09-01T21:53:05.253-07:00My Latest Favorites<br />
I love reading other people's favorite things. Here are a few products I've been crushing on lately.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnahYMLMqeV8trmjTT2QF0kNi9nKqOQWaOS-yBN2CW8VGvBbEppLDdYa0H4bzk3U3urD9aC1UN1zEvT60ssnYnIIdKXYaEfjEoCG_EWl0J5T9H2JVdJkSodfPExqWahMs0p8Og7OqAbw/s1600/vanilla+bean+paste.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnahYMLMqeV8trmjTT2QF0kNi9nKqOQWaOS-yBN2CW8VGvBbEppLDdYa0H4bzk3U3urD9aC1UN1zEvT60ssnYnIIdKXYaEfjEoCG_EWl0J5T9H2JVdJkSodfPExqWahMs0p8Og7OqAbw/s320/vanilla+bean+paste.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnahYMLMqeV8trmjTT2QF0kNi9nKqOQWaOS-yBN2CW8VGvBbEppLDdYa0H4bzk3U3urD9aC1UN1zEvT60ssnYnIIdKXYaEfjEoCG_EWl0J5T9H2JVdJkSodfPExqWahMs0p8Og7OqAbw/s1600/vanilla+bean+paste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
Peabody recommended <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002HQE11O/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002HQE11O&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Vanilla Bean Paste</a> and I love it. The jar smells so good and the little vanilla bean flecks taste and look good. It makes my frosting extra pretty and yummy at the same time. I also love the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0037BONRK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0037BONRK&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Kirkland Vanilla from Costco</a> if you are looking for a vanilla extract.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCN68cexxqaUtStl_e7TVkRaNvglSqUnN7H5rEiJP5bDcmDgYizWOP1_RHqI3UDy1jtuI0n7Gk389hMNhPfJUOzrtPt3sywPEq1Sf6czO9_1nh3_bUMc27dVvrB3fIH1AmZdaME1cZSUQ/s1600/stila+eyeliner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCN68cexxqaUtStl_e7TVkRaNvglSqUnN7H5rEiJP5bDcmDgYizWOP1_RHqI3UDy1jtuI0n7Gk389hMNhPfJUOzrtPt3sywPEq1Sf6czO9_1nh3_bUMc27dVvrB3fIH1AmZdaME1cZSUQ/s1600/stila+eyeliner.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.sephora.com/stay-all-day-waterproof-liquid-eye-liner-P253818?skuId=1221084">Stila All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner</a><br />
It makes a perfect cat eye and the pen shaped applicator is so easy to use. If you're not into thicker eyeliner the tapered brush does a nice thin line as well. By the end of the day it still looks perfect (and that's really saying something in the Arizona Summer!) Even better, it doesn't bother my sensitive eyes like most liquid eye liners. It's even $5 cheaper on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0031NNE56/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0031NNE56&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Amazon</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4025LMfvidHfYv8HfC2jNNMbwbq_Kmda49Jfk30KQZ6ySsUGuKdd7sQez-Y_14t3fXq1Og82xj495_DShpsdx7D8BeV8a8l6dMtmm4wFJKokUibVWwnYeNQ9vtE4N_BnOSxd1xVsZmAc/s1600/oxo+brush.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4025LMfvidHfYv8HfC2jNNMbwbq_Kmda49Jfk30KQZ6ySsUGuKdd7sQez-Y_14t3fXq1Og82xj495_DShpsdx7D8BeV8a8l6dMtmm4wFJKokUibVWwnYeNQ9vtE4N_BnOSxd1xVsZmAc/s320/oxo+brush.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QTVXK0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001QTVXK0&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Oxo Stainless Steel Brush</a>- I found one of these at Ross a few years ago and have been using this kind ever since. It's pretty, cleans up amazingly well, and wears so much better than the plastic kind I used to use. It really lasts forever and even my mom loves it (that's a pretty strong endorsement).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclToNp79mPOTc96-cfy1d5WodFi_RBbAVXQfcTcoWZlLFUo45XJfQwY6V20nmZ4_fj8YfATBxYPzTKTKTTR8RMCm6Yhsgp_fgczvCVVVRglA7RqKzABuuEO2r8A9GwVhRcjv1ipgSojg/s1600/iphone+5+case.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclToNp79mPOTc96-cfy1d5WodFi_RBbAVXQfcTcoWZlLFUo45XJfQwY6V20nmZ4_fj8YfATBxYPzTKTKTTR8RMCm6Yhsgp_fgczvCVVVRglA7RqKzABuuEO2r8A9GwVhRcjv1ipgSojg/s1600/iphone+5+case.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0090A8SPA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0090A8SPA&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Vintage Floral iPhone Case</a> from Agent 18. I got mine at TJ Maxx and it's really cute, super sturdy, and slides smoothly in and out of my pocket and diaper bag. I'm high maintenance like that. I've gotten a lot of comment about this case and pink puffy heart love it (although my baby liked my old higher contrast black and white one better. You win some you lose some).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUXu1a9hNE47OB1HFEiiCLw7UfVCeQoy1qrVkmEiGIWRxCCxSyM-UtX3T-X_nCP2TGfmAxKbKw31hkieA0BCtvsVy67YSfLDqGsTTYF-hpFQNSkIxQFoGPUk9JkkmFACC7zuf-dCW4oE/s1600/big+bang.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUXu1a9hNE47OB1HFEiiCLw7UfVCeQoy1qrVkmEiGIWRxCCxSyM-UtX3T-X_nCP2TGfmAxKbKw31hkieA0BCtvsVy67YSfLDqGsTTYF-hpFQNSkIxQFoGPUk9JkkmFACC7zuf-dCW4oE/s1600/big+bang.jpg" /></a></div>
My brother and sister-in-law loaned us <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000W91RUG/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000W91RUG&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Big Bang Theory</a> and we're hooked. It's ridiculously funny- especially if you know a lot of engineers like we do. Try it out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCA-YDvkPsVFluDWBYNURTZ44bM51QXoE0iWpGF0erfa0hpTLCohIPuxeFdMYLaShSRCCiW_xxrND3g3tOpYFocS-8zPzRUSiO78jtZF726R3TilzmPkSnJycYx0tk49Jrb7kiz4g2udE/s1600/bar+keepers+friend.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCA-YDvkPsVFluDWBYNURTZ44bM51QXoE0iWpGF0erfa0hpTLCohIPuxeFdMYLaShSRCCiW_xxrND3g3tOpYFocS-8zPzRUSiO78jtZF726R3TilzmPkSnJycYx0tk49Jrb7kiz4g2udE/s320/bar+keepers+friend.jpg" width="256" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCA-YDvkPsVFluDWBYNURTZ44bM51QXoE0iWpGF0erfa0hpTLCohIPuxeFdMYLaShSRCCiW_xxrND3g3tOpYFocS-8zPzRUSiO78jtZF726R3TilzmPkSnJycYx0tk49Jrb7kiz4g2udE/s1600/bar+keepers+friend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
I have a few little mess makers and ended up using my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000V72992/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000V72992&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Bar Keeper's Friend</a> several times this week. My stainless steel pan looks perfect after a quick scrub, my glass stove top is shiny, my vanity is perfectly clean, and my shower is whiter now too. Plus, it's only a dollar at Target. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxyA0UBr2ziGZXF8EQBQ5Tms3OLb1deeDZaDYdLQpu0DumO0srv7hq5mrZ8S2ARKxPsxIdYmgrZA2Ibu-IApciMk-WCxaSaI4_WlmsCpuAl4ilaThFqJqiBpp6VKvMOfoFAQCSLMwubSA/s1600/little+women.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxyA0UBr2ziGZXF8EQBQ5Tms3OLb1deeDZaDYdLQpu0DumO0srv7hq5mrZ8S2ARKxPsxIdYmgrZA2Ibu-IApciMk-WCxaSaI4_WlmsCpuAl4ilaThFqJqiBpp6VKvMOfoFAQCSLMwubSA/s320/little+women.jpg" width="192" /></a></div>
I hadn't read <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0090A8SPA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0090A8SPA&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Little Women</a> before. It was wonderful. It's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0082Z1CVQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0082Z1CVQ&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">free for Kindle</a>, too. I can't believe how many sections I highlighted but I loved so much of this book:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"I keep turning over new leaves, and spoiling them, as I used to spoil my copybooks, and I make so many beginnings there never will be an end," he said dolefully. "Go and eat your dinner, you'll feel better after it. Men always croak when they are hungry," and Jo whisked out at the front door after that. "That's a 'label on my 'sect'," answered Laurie, quoting Amy." {too true!} <br />
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"Then let me advise you to take up your little burdens again, for though they seem heavy sometimes, they are good for us, and lighten as we learn to carry them. Work is wholesome, and there is plenty for everyone. It keeps us from ennui and mischief, is good for health and spirits, and gives us a sense of power and independence better than money or fashion." <br />
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"Have regular hours for work and play, make each day both useful and pleasant, and prove that you understand the worth of time by employing it well. Then youth will be delightful, old age will bring few regrets, and life become a beautiful success, in spite of poverty."</blockquote>
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I think it's time to listen to Marmee and get folding laundry and washing dishes instead of wishing away time on the internet. Read Little Women again and let me know what you think.<br />
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Do you have any favorite products I need to try? <div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-59847606013247893452013-08-12T22:27:00.001-07:002013-08-12T22:27:16.020-07:00I heart Trader Joe's<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZpGy2AjfhU2hLj3LHBql768J4_WFqzlHv9yFKt2T85GCoMfZK0wF7v-BFEOShyphenhyphentqknkX9mM4vN_nC3pOf0HPDy0pTq4SOj9CLJ9Zh_mgaDsfsBDe8ZVx6-03325JzCD0C8BHgP5FwXw/s400/photo(1).JPG" width="400" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZpGy2AjfhU2hLj3LHBql768J4_WFqzlHv9yFKt2T85GCoMfZK0wF7v-BFEOShyphenhyphentqknkX9mM4vN_nC3pOf0HPDy0pTq4SOj9CLJ9Zh_mgaDsfsBDe8ZVx6-03325JzCD0C8BHgP5FwXw/s1600/photo(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
Have you been to Trader Joe's lately? I'm kind of hit or miss there because it's a little ways from my house but I've been stopping by more often because I keep finding amazing things (and I may or may not have been stalking the cookie butter that was in and out of stock. I hear its back now- and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006KK4GUO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B006KK4GUO&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">on Amazon of course</a>. Too funny). The frozen fruit is great for smoothies and really well priced. On the way to the pineapple one day I saw these Chocolate Covered Sea Salt Butterscotch Caramels and couldn't resist. They taste like super charged Milk Duds. Milk Duds for grown ups (but my kids loved them too).<br />
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<img border="0" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0CbyJmIRGn_J5KZWqqEC-ClPjBqAHmQkHDCQyRXREX-7QHx2nNYLahfmKAoJF48EhyA6UGMDRrX_Yq5fHVNM4Ol-1gSYhyvBrXYAW5AABW2JrQRcbfOs64gKxodWF40cpFuvSw1sB1I/s400/photo(2).JPG" width="400" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0CbyJmIRGn_J5KZWqqEC-ClPjBqAHmQkHDCQyRXREX-7QHx2nNYLahfmKAoJF48EhyA6UGMDRrX_Yq5fHVNM4Ol-1gSYhyvBrXYAW5AABW2JrQRcbfOs64gKxodWF40cpFuvSw1sB1I/s1600/photo(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
Trader Joe's has the best salad stuff. I made an <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2011/09/homemade-salad-dressing-croutons.html">easy balsamic vinaigrette</a> with their vinegar and Spanish olive oil (thanks to my BFF Natalie for the recommendation on the olive oil!) Toss it over their salad greens, goat cheese (also cheap and delicious), pecans, and you have a pretty dang close knock off of the French Country Salad from the Cheesecake Factory. They also sell these beets in the refridgerated section. I used them at my Bastille Day dinner and happily sliced them and threw them on the salad instead of roasting and peeling and ending up with a crazy messy kitchen right before my big dinner party. I do still want to try making them from scratch, though...<br />
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Their Yukon Gold Potatoes are seriously delicious, too. They make the most amazing mashed potatoes. My little man loves the honey whole wheat pretzel sticks (I like to dip them in the roasted rep pepper hummus). Baby Strawberry swears the JoJo's taste better than real Oreos and she's a chocolate and carbohydrate connoisseur.<br />
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What do you like at Trader Joe's? I'm always looking for something new to try...<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-81823744669778700812013-08-01T08:53:00.000-07:002019-09-30T14:13:04.674-07:00Mini Soft Rainbow Sugar Cookies<br />
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<img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVI2wyqWgqXD8-IPqHvIRZbGqRm9r8g3VlnEYIMkE8fTsUl_SR2L09XS9pJgG0RwwKOppMCpVgDLzNShy51glqGwdr9lkhdXk8JS1hPsqT0DZFD3RLg8i9_vTLhsdHrkgwI3SciNjr0Y/s640/DSC_0937+-+Copy.JPG" width="640" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilVI2wyqWgqXD8-IPqHvIRZbGqRm9r8g3VlnEYIMkE8fTsUl_SR2L09XS9pJgG0RwwKOppMCpVgDLzNShy51glqGwdr9lkhdXk8JS1hPsqT0DZFD3RLg8i9_vTLhsdHrkgwI3SciNjr0Y/s1600/DSC_0937+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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A few weeks ago at our family reunion, we were debating the virtues of the store bought brightly frosted sugar cookie. I am a mean mom and never buy those, so my kids were dying to try one, of course. Someone said "We call these 'cancer cookies', they are full of so much garbage" and her daughter piped in "but they taste SO good!" I told them I usually make my own with this tried and true recipe. I can control all the ingredients (not that they are amazingly healthy but at least I can pronounce them) and it's fun making them, too. I used a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004UE85/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00004UE85&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">small metal cookie scoop</a> to make itty bitty cookies this time. They're about the size of an Oreo and oh so yummy. I love the smaller portions for my littles (let's be honest, the smaller cookies just mean grown ups eat more of them).</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2okhBBaorJGdepiyZxSN_BrxJJKl0jum09VhfeTULYB8LppWI84J46l6xUwbHvHFXwxjzyI9IJa8D0e5UgOLUl0G3fa86Lq7VFOUKPi1ivjsoU2O1IolILeUX7yj3IIHTx3mFUY5g3ic/s640/mini+rainbow+sugar+cookies.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Last time I posted these, I used my favorite <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002L3RV9C/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002L3RV9C&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">Americolor gel coloring</a> to make a bunch of different colors. It's easier than you think- I put about 3/4 cup of frosting into a mug and mix the coloring in with the knife I'll use to spread it out. These are imperfect and lovely at the same time. Washing a few mugs isn't a big deal and the rainbow effect is lovely. This time I used the standard grocery store four pack and got six fun colors easily that way. Check out this <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/89298005081780207/">food coloring</a> <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/89298005081780208/">mixing chart</a> for more color ideas. It's pretty amazing what you can do with the basic pack (though I still much prefer the lovely <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002L3RV9C/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B002L3RV9C&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">gel dyes</a>).</div>
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Please note- I use a mix of a butter and shortening for these cookies but whatever mix/fat you're comfortable with should be fine as long as you stick with the proper ratio. I've used all butter for a softer cookie if you'd like to omit the shortening. Let me know if you try something fancy!</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Anne Strawberry's Soft Sugar Cookies</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><br /></b></span>
<div style="height: 0px;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1-5iBOO6L5NQMil43kGSR_yyHl26FOELklPqwcGI3jpc">{printable recipe here}</a> </span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.universityofcookie.com/2011/04/shellys-soft-sugar-cookies.html">adapted from Shelly </a> </span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">1 Cup Plain Shortening (I like the blue Crisco, none of that icky 'butter flavor')</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">3 eggs</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">1 Tablespoon Vanilla</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">4 3/4 Cups All-Purpose Flour </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">1 1/2 Teaspoons Salt (I used Kosher)</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">
Preheat the oven to 350°.</span>
<br /><span style="font-size: small;">
Roll into balls, placing about 2 inches apart on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00008T960/ref=as_li_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B00008T960&adid=1BCXJ1Z8H5GKTEKKM0DS&">Silpat</a>/parchment lined/greased cookie sheet. I usually use a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003KG9TTE/ref=as_li_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B003KG9TTE&adid=1Q1JE11XKJPS7QNPZGP0&">regular cookie scoop</a>
to get each cookie uniform (about 2 Tablespoons of dough in each). It
will be a little sticky, don't be surprised! If it's too tacky to work
with, add a little more flour or chill the dough in the fridge for a few
minutes.</span> Smaller scoops make cute little cookies which is always nice for a party or kids. <a href="https://amzn.to/2oLkmDr">Pampered Chef scoops</a> are my very favorite.<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">Take them out of the oven and transfer to a cooling
rack after a couple of minutes. Frost with your favorite frosting (mine
is below). </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Anne Strawberry's Favorite Frosting</b></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">
1/2 cup butter, softened (one stick) </span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">
1 package of cream cheese, softened (I like to use Neufchatel, less fat and I don't notice much difference)</span>
<br /><span style="font-size: small;">
2 Tablespoons milk</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">
2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or the seeds of one vanilla pod, scraped</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">
dash of salt</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">
6 cups of powdered sugar (more or less to achieve desired consistency, this is a baseline)</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">
1 Tablespoon meringue powder (optional but very helpful! you can find
this in the cake decorating section at walmart, michaels, or joann's. I always buy the <a href="https://amzn.to/2msFqO8">Wilton brand.</a>)</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">
In a mixer with the whisk attachment, combine the cream cheese and
butter until light and fluffy. Add in the milk, vanilla, and salt, and
blend.</span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">
Variation:</span><br /><span style="font-size: small;">
Add 1 T. Lemon or orange zest and substitute juice for the milk to make a tangy citrus frosting. Alternately, you can flavor with mint extract or almond extract. </span><br />x</div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Makes about 5 dozen cookies (depending
on their size). I scooped up a few dozen and froze the balls of dough to
take out and bake another time without any work.</span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1 Cup Butter (Salted is fine), Softened</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">2 1/4 Cups Sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1 Tablespoon Baking Powder</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Cream butter, shortening and sugar
together until light and fluffy (one or two minutes). Add one egg at a
time and beat for one minute afterwards. Beat in the vanilla. Reduce the
mixer to low speed and carefully add the dry team (flour, powder,
salt). I usually turn it off first, pour them all in, cover the mixer
with a dish towel and turn it on low. Mix gently- only until the flour
is barely incorporated. Give it one last stir with a rubber/silicone
spatula to get everything off the bottom.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Bake the cookies for about 8-9 minutes, or until they start to brown
slightly on the edges (shorter time for smaller cookies- keep your eyes on them after 6-7 minutes). I wanted mine extra soft and nice so I err on the
side of under done. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;">Next, add the powdered sugar and meringue powder, cover the bowl of the
mixer with a dish towel, and turn it on low until everything is
combined. Then increase the speed for a minute or so until the frosting
is light, fluffy, and delicious. The meringue powder will help set the
frosting after it dries so it holds its shape.</span><br />
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvuxi4LU8IKC_81pnAvQLWSLFZXc8VF4zY6uoXOLOH0wiqeDd1XwevHNGRM-zAfUSfj96v8FoRKfHvoO_m1q_f9KQ_97v7emd4mCn2iNGAU5fAEWfbpoRn7rVZZ_uqcRrzVUdu6ped54/s320/934655_10151752326393817_393788919_n.jpg" width="320" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvuxi4LU8IKC_81pnAvQLWSLFZXc8VF4zY6uoXOLOH0wiqeDd1XwevHNGRM-zAfUSfj96v8FoRKfHvoO_m1q_f9KQ_97v7emd4mCn2iNGAU5fAEWfbpoRn7rVZZ_uqcRrzVUdu6ped54/s1600/934655_10151752326393817_393788919_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">PS </span><span style="font-size: small;">Little baby Rosebud is five months old! Time flies and while I do make
dinner (and treats, too) most of the time, I still feel like my head
isn't on straight! You can see why I can't get anything done, I can't stand to put this little darling down! Even noticing herself in the mirror is adorable and she has the yummiest, chubbiest legs. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Baby number three is lovely but life feels trickier
still. Is that just me? Tips and tricks anyone? Please forgive my
sporadic posting and my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/anne.strawberry/">instagram pictures.</a> These cookies are yummy as
can be even without a fancy blog post!</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-32363414878240547852013-07-01T10:38:00.001-07:002013-07-08T11:41:51.895-07:00Lindt White Chocolate Strawberries and Cream Frosting <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8yM1k2UyJt_0aY9Vlv_mxjbidDWRR_d8Qw80FuW0u3KDFQayOejjyp4loq6UluIw4m_dyNumcAIZvbSaE3jw_oM8pVjn4sAOBeTR1FN98NUin0Tc-JbfJb5zathuu37tXIa6eWXTY_c/s640/DSC_0556.JPG" width="422" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8yM1k2UyJt_0aY9Vlv_mxjbidDWRR_d8Qw80FuW0u3KDFQayOejjyp4loq6UluIw4m_dyNumcAIZvbSaE3jw_oM8pVjn4sAOBeTR1FN98NUin0Tc-JbfJb5zathuu37tXIa6eWXTY_c/s1600/DSC_0556.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF8yM1k2UyJt_0aY9Vlv_mxjbidDWRR_d8Qw80FuW0u3KDFQayOejjyp4loq6UluIw4m_dyNumcAIZvbSaE3jw_oM8pVjn4sAOBeTR1FN98NUin0Tc-JbfJb5zathuu37tXIa6eWXTY_c/s1600/DSC_0556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
A few weeks ago Lindt Chocolate asked if I wanted to try some of their new <a href="http://www.lindtusa.com/product-exec/product_id/1236/category_id/21/nm/CLASSIC_RECIPE_Strawberries_Creme">Classic Recipe Strawberries and Creme bars</a>. Perfect! Yes! I got to work thinking about what I should make with it and decided it would make delicious frosting. I topped each cupcake with a little piece of the chocolate bar as a garnish. I found this cute little <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/89298005084197568/">chalkboard bunting printable from Simpleklassichome.com (see the pin here</a>) to fancy them up for my friend's birthday. I just printed it out, cut and glued onto some <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007IWA2L0/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B007IWA2L0&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">baker's twine</a>. This is way fancy for me (and only took about 10 minutes).<br />
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmBn6CDVLB_EyBFm1fZsw7n8kxUOM2CVj0duu9c61wVC2W9gMQ7S2QjIrVl2WhVy6tjgYc_9IamodjzMN35fPyKVTzYcRpYSoaHXIyMW9pXgLsdx9eQahSrOl7dJsyWZ5-h7sC97Gi1s/s640/DSC_0520.JPG" width="422" /> </div>
I made a modified version of my favorite frosting and poured in the
melted chocolate bar and gave it a quick mix before piping it out on
devils food cupcakes.<br />
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<img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGDEx4q03vt6FktrN06FKrTvZlIS7igMtUfJJ2-rOUFTyyoibLpCfJ_jq4vHp8FrrH_zYOs7VfNtnXSWPdRbnq-VwCpmuzdQ-JySdV2cL0TPr5zJFDiEEAQFNNb5OAYMTVyQrHFMa8ak/s640/DSC_0534.JPG" width="640" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyGDEx4q03vt6FktrN06FKrTvZlIS7igMtUfJJ2-rOUFTyyoibLpCfJ_jq4vHp8FrrH_zYOs7VfNtnXSWPdRbnq-VwCpmuzdQ-JySdV2cL0TPr5zJFDiEEAQFNNb5OAYMTVyQrHFMa8ak/s1600/DSC_0534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
I also brushed the tops of the cupcakes with a little raspberry Torani strawberry syrup to reinforce the berry flavor and keep them moist. They're great for making homemade Italian sodas or fancy lemonade. The salted caramel is yummy in hot chocolate too! They are cheap and so fun at Smart at Final locally or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003PFWNSE/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003PFWNSE&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">available on Amazon of course</a>. This isn't a necessary step but it's quick and fun for Baby Strawberry to help with and adds a little more depth of flavor.<br />
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<img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MhX_ax9d4fS-urWpan3BNjz7TZ6kJHgZJkaAJa7nWvMRW4YANhs4k9APlkyP9LkCF30ep0JL2qGE1AstcXQOU-IDXJ4Yi7WA5wK5SX01gvByZbM_lElRMytzqg7nsdPEAPxewZzVMrw/s640/DSC_0579.JPG" width="640" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MhX_ax9d4fS-urWpan3BNjz7TZ6kJHgZJkaAJa7nWvMRW4YANhs4k9APlkyP9LkCF30ep0JL2qGE1AstcXQOU-IDXJ4Yi7WA5wK5SX01gvByZbM_lElRMytzqg7nsdPEAPxewZzVMrw/s1600/DSC_0579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
I loved how this chocolate had little pieces of strawberries in it that made the frosting really pretty with little bits of pink mixed in. It was delicious and a fun variant from my normal frosting I use for everything. <br />
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<b>Lindt Strawberries and Creme White Chocolate Frosting</b><br />
from Anne Strawberry<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cjVpuUHvwzFTqaucN4U07MfNu-OHy-eLzdMT_CruJ5I/edit?usp=sharing">{printable recipe here}</a><br />
<br />
4.2 ounces (one bar) of <a href="http://www.lindtusa.com/product-exec/product_id/1236/category_id//nm/CLASSIC_RECIPE_Strawberries_Creme">Lindt Strawberries and Creme Chocolate</a><br />
1/2 C. butter, barely softened (one stick)<br />
6 cups of powdered sugar (more or less to achieve desired consistency, this is a baseline. I usually use most of a standard two pound bag) <br />
1 T. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ZNOVCA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000ZNOVCA&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">meringue powder</a> <br />
1 t. pure vanilla extract<br />
1/2 cup sour cream<br />
dash of salt<br />
<br />
Chop up the chocolate and melt in the microwave on low for about 30 seconds. Stir and repeat until smooth. <br />
<br />
In
a mixer with the whisk attachment, blend the butter
until light and fluffy. Add about two cups of powdered sugar, the meringue powder, and mix until combined. Add in the vanilla, sour cream, and salt and mix. After it's all smooth and combined, mix in the melted chocolate. Mix in powdered sugar on low speed until desired consistency is reached (I like thicker frosting for decorating, especially when it's so hot!)<br />
<br />
The meringue
powder will help set the frosting after it dries so it holds its shape. It's not necessary but makes for a much better final product. You can find it in the cake decorating section at Walmart, Michael's, JoAnn, or Hobby Lobby (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000ZNOVCA/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000ZNOVCA&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">or on Amazon!</a>) <br />
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Pipe out onto your favorite chocolate cupcake and enjoy. I use an o<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BVFYU4/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000BVFYU4&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">versized pastry bag and tip like this</a> to make them cute in a hurry.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Easy Devils Food Cupcakes</span><br />
from Anne Strawberry<br />
<br />
1 cup sour cream (reduced fat is fine)<br />
1/2 cup water<br />
1/2 cup canola oil<br />
3 eggs<br />
1 tablespoon vanilla<br />
1 box Devils Food chocolate cake mix (I recommend Betty Crocker)<br />
<br />
Preheat the oven to 350.<br />
<br />
Combine
all ingredients in stand mixer and beat for two minutes until combined.
Using a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00004UE84/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00004UE84&linkCode=as2&tag=annestr-20">medium cookie/ ice cream scoop</a>, scoop into 24 paper-cup lined muffin tins.<br />
<br />
Bake
for about 20 minutes or until cupcakes spring back slightly when touched
and a tooth pick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Cool on racks
and frost once completely cooled.<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
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disclosure: Lindt sent me a couple of chocolate bars but the opinions and info are my own. <div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-43789682417671001142013-06-06T09:11:00.002-07:002013-06-06T09:11:58.759-07:00Ricotta Pancakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9qvTfZdLq73QGo5Lgi3J7PtQ6jSDeLfzMROgJILBfY43eJHDTa1p9yl-AGnn0WpZQXzlkUL7AgV0ZhJMDMMgLR91ZAPoSVB9PUMA9HrpK_PqSqPb7EJjf3mtL6GB_rQ9bO38mQiSDE-E/s400/ricotta+pancakes.jpg" width="400" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9qvTfZdLq73QGo5Lgi3J7PtQ6jSDeLfzMROgJILBfY43eJHDTa1p9yl-AGnn0WpZQXzlkUL7AgV0ZhJMDMMgLR91ZAPoSVB9PUMA9HrpK_PqSqPb7EJjf3mtL6GB_rQ9bO38mQiSDE-E/s1600/ricotta+pancakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
Now that my son is in school, I appreciate summer a little more! We have really enjoyed the relaxing mornings before we head out to swim team and lessons. The kids love pancakes but I usually make waffles (less babysitting involved I think) but their extra nice request was too hard to resist the other morning. I had a clearanced container of ricotta in the fridge and remembered hearing about ricotta pancakes once so to Google I happily went.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/">Smitten Kitchen</a> never disappoints (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/030759565X/ref=as_li_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=030759565X&adid=1WNDFSK4GQVS7BXMMRD3&">she has a lovely new cookbook too</a>) and although I didn't make the apples she suggested for her lemon ricotta pancakes, some yummy canned peaches from last fall were perfect with <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/2009/01/makin-banana-pancakes.html">our favorite homemade maple syrup</a>. Honestly, though, these tasted amazing fresh off the stove with a little butter on top. I hate lumpy pancakes (though I probably deserve them using Bisquick!) Because these pancakes are mostly ricotta and eggs, there's no lumps- just soft, tender pancakes to melt in your mouth. Next time I'll double the recipe because these were all gone before the griddle cooled with only my little man, baby strawberry and I eating them.<br />
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What's your favorite topping for pancakes and waffles? I'm going to try these with strawberries next time (surprise surprise!)<br />
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<b>Lemon Ricotta Pancakes </b><br />
<b> </b><a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/12793"></a> <br />
from Anne Strawberry <br />
adapted from <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/blog/2007/11/lemon-ricotta-pancakes-with-sauteed-apples/">smitten kitchen</a> <br />
Servings: Makes about twelve 3- to 4-inch pancakes.<br />
<br />
4 large eggs, separated<br />
1 1/3 cups ricotta<br />
2 tablespoons sugar<br />
1 tablespoons lemon zest<br />
1/2 cup all-purpose flour<br /><br />
Separate the eggs and set aside the whites. In a bowl whisk together the egg YOLKS, ricotta, sugar, and zest. Lightly stir in the flour until barely combined. In a
bowl with an electric mixer beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt
until they hold stiff peaks. Whisk in a quarter of the whites then fold the rest in gently.
Cook the pancakes over medium heat on a griddle of flat pan brushed with butter for 1 to 2
minutes on each side, or until they are golden. The recipe will yield about a dozen 1/4 cup sized pancakes. Transfer the pancakes as
they are cooked to a heatproof platter and keep them warm in a 200°F oven (or eat them hot off the pan with a little fresh butter!) Try fresh fruit or maple syrup on top.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Irene's Maple Syrup</span><br />
from Anne Strawberry<br />2 cups Sugar<br />2 cups Water<br />1/2 cup Dark Karo Syrup<br />1 teaspoon Maple extract<br />1 teaspoon Vanilla<br /><br />Combine
all ingredients in sauce pan, place over medium-high heat, and bring to
a boil. Boil for five minutes and serve over pancakes. Store leftovers
in a screw-top glass jar for a few weeks (reheat in the microwave or on
the stove).
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-91792427802303173982013-06-04T06:07:00.000-07:002013-06-04T06:07:00.578-07:00Peanut Butter Popcorn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5-FZrsRr8syWA6XSal5S09uRfsfNwRcnTDBqlJr-8ElkUaQODjUc2cpUqcQDAImjLQgIb4zz4qWTpSJZoRl7u5rAzOGBMpjSZlVrKyx1a-k7UR-p-rf9MYd6q0ZNnLMPKsR1x8T_hYY/s640/popcorn.JPG" width="640" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5-FZrsRr8syWA6XSal5S09uRfsfNwRcnTDBqlJr-8ElkUaQODjUc2cpUqcQDAImjLQgIb4zz4qWTpSJZoRl7u5rAzOGBMpjSZlVrKyx1a-k7UR-p-rf9MYd6q0ZNnLMPKsR1x8T_hYY/s1600/popcorn.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
I don't know about your family, but at our house, as soon as we walk in the door from Church the children act like I've never fed them before and start razing the pantry and fridge. To hold off the hunger tide I made this popcorn on Sunday. I saw the recipe from the <a href="http://www.lazybudgetchef.com/2012/08/coconut-carmel-popcorn.html">Lazy Budget Chef</a> earlier in the weekend and thought it would be worth trying. With the starving kids begging for a snack, I didn't follow the recipe but just threw a few things in a sauce pan, lets them melt together, and poured it over a big bowl of plain air popped popcorn. Lazy, quick after-Church cooking- I love when that works out!<br />
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I told my tall man that this was 'healthy caramel popcorn' and he laughed (and grabbed a handful on his way out of the kitchen). I know it's not healthy but it does have healthier ingredients. The butter is replaced by coconut oil and the brown sugar by honey. I'll admit I was skeptical. I don't love honey on it's own and was a little nervous that the final product would have a honey taste. The original recipe suggests a peanut butter variation so I went with that, figuring it would camouflage the honey. I am happy to report this tasted like the real deal. It's sweet and a little (not too) sticky, barely salty, crunchy and delicious. My mom makes peanut butter rice krispy treats that are a lot like these (but I'll take popcorn over cereal any day!)<br />
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I should also tell you- I really, really hate coconut but there's no nasty sunblock taste here even when you use the oil. Give it a try.<br />
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Please forgive the instagram photo. I have a sparkly new camera but my phone is just so easy when I'm in a time crunch!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Peanut Butter Popcorn</b><br />
from <a href="http://www.annestrawberry.com/">Anne Strawberry </a><br />
aka 'Healthy Caramel Popcorn'<br />
<br />
1/4 cup of coconut oil<br />
1/4 cup of honey<br />
1/4 cup of smooth peanut butter<br />
2 teaspoons of vanilla<br />
salt, to taste (I prefer Kosher)<br />
one big bowl of plain popcorn (about 2/3 cup kernels, popped)<br />
<br />
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut oil, honey, and peanut butter. Stir and cook until melted and combined. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Carefully pour the hot topping over the popcorn and stir with a big wooden spoon. Season with salt to taste (go easy- the peanut butter is a little salty) and enjoy!<br />
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Note- these measurements are approximates. These ingredients are way too sticky for me to measure regularly, I just eyeballed them! I'm sure butter would be a yummy substitute for the coconut oil, too, if you don't have any. <br />
<br />
recipe inspired by <a href="http://www.lazybudgetchef.com/2012/08/coconut-carmel-popcorn.html">Lazy Budget Chef's</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-64031297734002688212013-06-03T12:50:00.002-07:002013-06-03T12:50:39.940-07:00In Other Food Related News...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLSFh6LnSxw8xL25w1n5oRgyZOao8fmVOVihm9a_yIsja-gXG3zK8P-r5-nAqOdhyKWxX4i1b_lP3Plz1YF3-HywYJYgHP-SrS5yZ6ug926yhCTLl8xVAoyX1ChQ8SilOPa8thalncDE/s400/photo(2).JPG" width="400" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLSFh6LnSxw8xL25w1n5oRgyZOao8fmVOVihm9a_yIsja-gXG3zK8P-r5-nAqOdhyKWxX4i1b_lP3Plz1YF3-HywYJYgHP-SrS5yZ6ug926yhCTLl8xVAoyX1ChQ8SilOPa8thalncDE/s1600/photo(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
Well, I said I would be on to post about the trifle I made but writing a full on recipe and post seems about as possible as well, I don't know, most things are a little difficult right now with a cute little monkey in my arms. Getting to swim team on time is pretty impressive for now (we're 3/4 for on time, not too shabby!) I've sat down and worked on my post 15 minutes at a time for a few times but it's not finished so I thought I'd share a few things instead. For the locals, there's a new place to get your carb fix in downtown Mesa- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ProofArtisanBread">Proof Artisan Breads</a>. The pain au chocolat is to die for and I'm looking forward to trying some of his fancy breads. Mr. Carbohydrate was even impressed and asked when I was going to bring those home instead of gorgeous chocolate pastries he can't eat. Check it out if you're close by.<br />
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I think I might have been the last person to notice this salad dressing but I thought I'd pass it along just in case. I love making my own salad dressings and usually do (maybe that's why I didn't know about the Olive Garden dressing?) But I was looking for a dressing we had had at a party and couldn't resist this $3 bottle of deliciousness. It tastes like the real deal- much more than all the copy cat Olive Garden salad dressing recipes I've seen and tried on Pinterest. I'm not breaking up with homemade salad dressing (<a href="http://pinterest.com/annestrawberry/salads-dressings-soups/">I have lots of great ideas on my board here</a>) but I'm certainly going to buy another bottle of this when it runs out. I found mine at Walmart, $3 well spent!<br />
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0TD7CUiiJbb1F-kOySI2kO3sjDDaD8loP3xWNYe095ZwkQ9qwZqhQgE9waQiwFbU8dJ61ewzRxa0dMzVDQDDYvrXuZpHx73fI9SofnMEt4iKoZB6biYeyDGGfi0s8NZATsY1Fns6NWE/s400/photo%25281%2529.JPG" width="400" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz0TD7CUiiJbb1F-kOySI2kO3sjDDaD8loP3xWNYe095ZwkQ9qwZqhQgE9waQiwFbU8dJ61ewzRxa0dMzVDQDDYvrXuZpHx73fI9SofnMEt4iKoZB6biYeyDGGfi0s8NZATsY1Fns6NWE/s1600/photo%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
The last thing I'm nibbling on most of the time is this cute girl. I think I'm going to call her baby Rosebud for now. She's adorable and delicious and about to wake up from her nap so it's time to cut this super eloquent blog post off.<br />
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Have you been eating anything amazing lately? Is there a salad dressing that I should have tried by now? Do tell!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-91391927452185022232013-05-13T09:57:00.001-07:002013-05-15T01:03:03.627-07:00A busy kitchen!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSo-L70HwkzEFHnUprzb7PGHKY-HJ9pka2oPAc9thwe9ho_zpWgaaDIENseVPLjBfozOSrQdcVjFUoAahd-PB2pWy4Sth4hVOMlnjfFhwYlL_cbOuYWEWQHYHdMHbJBr1wU2aE1GyLvc/s400/IMG_1826.JPG" width="263" /><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9bw8agUVg7Wr8mMuwwUQn1J7YVpYKP72SgsMZWzF_KL55BOBRrFuxuilSal9jhtMnff_kZ-JVnqcN4bMMOFXfInNO6kNATygyW2a5Tk8qSFgAvftyC_KFDyYDgv3cBUr4AoTiSNke0xQ/s400/baby+beth.jpg" width="263" /></div>
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Well it's no secret that the Anne Strawberry Kitchen has not lived up to it's potential lately. But, I was very busy baking up a very special treat- a sweet new baby girl! She's a perfect little pretty with the nicest snuggles and the sweetest personality (must have been all those chocolate chip cookies I craved). She's 2 months old now and I'm finally baking and {more importantly} making decent dinners again most nights. She definitely sapped my baking mojo while I was pregnant and I went weeks at a time without using my KitchenAid- a sad first for me! </div>
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I have missed my little corner of the blogosphere a lot, although it's kind of awkward to figure out how to break back in. I'm not taking gorgeous pictures of cupcakes very often though I still have dreams about new baked goods to invent and try out and love seeing what my friends are cooking. I'll try to post as often as I can and remember that this is still my favorite way to save and share my most loved recipes, even if it's not as fancy and perfect as I'd like it to be. Perfectionism is tricky, friends! Hopefully... I can remember that it doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful (or delicious).</div>
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Speaking of fancy and amazing food blogs, a few of my favorites are really great lately...</div>
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<a href="http://traceysculinaryadventures.blogspot.com/">Tracey's Culinary Adventures</a><br />
<a href="http://www.cafejohnsonia.com/">Cafe Johnsonia</a><br />
<a href="http://aggieskitchen.com/">Aggie's Kitchen</a><br />
<a href="http://www.closetcooking.com/">Closet Cooking</a><br />
And my always favorite... <a href="http://www.culinaryconcoctionsbypeabody.com/">Peabody</a><br />
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I always love finding new blogs and seeing what my favorite bloggers and reading and enjoying. Let me know if you have someone I should be following (while we still have Google Reader, right?)<br />
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We had a perfect Mother's Day yesterday and I've had a few Facebook friends request the trifle recipe I made. Since I just threw yummy things together until it looked right I'll work on making an actual recipe and get that up tomorrow hopefully. Until then, happy baking (and let me know if you have a suggestion for my sweet baby's new blog nick name! I hadn't thought about that until just now!)<br />
<span id="goog_1732481461"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1732481462"></span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-5528203357694827152012-08-15T16:05:00.002-07:002012-08-15T16:05:26.276-07:00Happy Birthday Julia!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKRdF-Whyphenhyphen7-QYQna0T7cHhxmdNWc4bOb8kY7vYtohbQ5jlWWRdTrxM7WEdwa6vxqve8XgtD6SvNRJtsFYNEeC4H3Kxktch5P5z_zvq7rF031XCEK7oLkJ6XtX6t8j4lurX0Wx_XHs-83o/s1600/my+life+in+france.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkGLBLT74TkRYYDwWann3f2vYftXsJx2i0-09x1ximY65TUlx2nSYqoxoQuu_B6edxa3Bc-Hipr_HVocyBkyfUM8kwkLxb3dvUhvJmlnfnKD3GZzwqbwcrOkR3s4z_rcbxoAQUa4DRods/s640/julia+child+quote.jpg" width="502" /> </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Adorable Julia Child Quote <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/99562720/8x10-in-julia-child-quote-illustration">via Unraveled Design on Etsy</a>- so true, too!</span></i></div>
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Today is Julia Child's 100th Birthday. She was such an amazing woman and really changed the whole food world. She's such an inspiration and if you don't know much about her, you should read her lovely book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1400043468/ref=as_li_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=1400043468&adid=0DPWYDZR31J8NVR8DFPA&">"My Life in France"</a> (the book the "Julia" half of the movie <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002RSDW80/ref=as_li_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B002RSDW80&adid=035JDNJNTSM76JDWXDF4&">"Julie and Julie"</a> was based on- I don't recommend the other book though! Meryl was amazing though and I loved the movie!)</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKRdF-Whyphenhyphen7-QYQna0T7cHhxmdNWc4bOb8kY7vYtohbQ5jlWWRdTrxM7WEdwa6vxqve8XgtD6SvNRJtsFYNEeC4H3Kxktch5P5z_zvq7rF031XCEK7oLkJ6XtX6t8j4lurX0Wx_XHs-83o/s640/my+life+in+france.jpg" width="432" /></div>
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Let me know if you <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1400043468/ref=as_li_ss_til?tag=annestr-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=1400043468&adid=0DPWYDZR31J8NVR8DFPA&">read the book</a> and what you think. I'll warn you now it will make you want to eat... and go to France now! And I hope you will go try a new recipe in Julia's honor today. She was told over and over that was too tall, too old, too American, too much to follow her dream but she did- and what an impact she made!</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6404943731575001815.post-74727564816797575982012-08-06T08:29:00.001-07:002012-08-06T08:29:41.540-07:00Pineapple Yogurt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhsA8RbTuNeZpQIPaqDudUDs1bOlB9L7byoVuxN6d45NwytQdBiP4Ozc4I4WEuQ-4PjW8_CQ9jXVzv0tsFr6dl-P-dJTYimt2bGF3_OF1N1TlX4ugidfBqz6fpLefGAorzBxhAsVURO6U/s1600/chobani.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhsA8RbTuNeZpQIPaqDudUDs1bOlB9L7byoVuxN6d45NwytQdBiP4Ozc4I4WEuQ-4PjW8_CQ9jXVzv0tsFr6dl-P-dJTYimt2bGF3_OF1N1TlX4ugidfBqz6fpLefGAorzBxhAsVURO6U/s640/chobani.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The first time I went to France, I spent a summer semester studying, exploring, playing, and eating my way through Paris. It was an awesome time and introduced me to a lot of still-favorite foods- pain au chocolat, baguettes, chevre (goat cheese), and pineapple yogurt. When I went back to France for a few days, I immediately sought out the pineapple yogurt. I've really never been a yogurt person but there was something special about my 'ananas' yogurt, so fresh and creamy and just amazing. I've attempted to recreate the taste by mixing crushed pineapple and juice into Greek yogurt (the Fage at Costco is reasonably priced and yummy) but when I tried this Chobani Pineapple last month I knew I'd met my match. This yogurt... it's just ridiculously delicious. It comes in a host of other flavors that look great but I've only got eyes for this one. It's like I'm eating ice cream for breakfast, filling up with healthy protein and calcium and starting my day off just right. Have you tried this? Do you love it? Have another amazing flavor to recommend?</div>
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PS You can read more about Chobani on <a href="http://chobani.com/coupons/">their site and even get coupons too</a>. And no this isn't a sponsored or sneaky post, I just really... really love this yogurt. Call me crazy.</div>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thanks for reading Anne Strawberry!</div>Annehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03742988374635783051noreply@blogger.com2