tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65633076253982252562024-03-08T16:33:14.323-08:00Kids Cooking 411The 411 on all things Kids Cooking! Join in the fun of cooking with kids...
<br>You'll be amazed at what you'll all learn and have a blast doing it!
Welcome...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-37880572662978095962017-03-28T07:27:00.000-07:002017-03-28T22:00:11.727-07:00Spring is time to play in the dirt...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QgD_nNMI29g/UZTshSu_3VI/AAAAAAAABdM/UarWF_RXMjw/s1600/Dirt+Cups.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QgD_nNMI29g/UZTshSu_3VI/AAAAAAAABdM/UarWF_RXMjw/s1600/Dirt+Cups.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">I love playing in the dirt just as much as kids do... I love spending time in the garden... I've always been the happiest when my hands are in the dirt! I have garden gloves but they always seem to end up on the ground or the table on the porch :-)</span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Since Spring is here, let's make some "Dirt Cups" for a great Spring snack! The kids are gonna love it!</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Here's the recipe:</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">2 cups milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">1 (4-serving size) instant chocolate pudding</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">1 (8-ounce) frozen whipped topping, thawed</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">1 (1-pound) package chocolate sandwich cookies</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">8 (9-ounce) plastic cups</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Gummi worms and frogs to decorate</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">1. Crush the chocolate sandwich cookies & set aside</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Note: The kids will love to do this if you put them in a zippy bag and give them a wooden mallet or a rolling pin!</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">2. Mix milk and pudding in a large bowl. Beat with a whisk until well blended. Let stand for 5 minutes. Yes, the kids can do ALL of this! Remember, you're their "assistant!"</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">3. Add whipped topping and half of the crushed cookies.</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">4. Place 1 Tablespoon of the cookie crush in the bottom of each plastic cup.</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">5. Fill cups about 3/4 full with pudding mixture.</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">6. Sprinkle with the remaining cookie crush mixture.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Note: Make sure the cookies are crushed to look like "dirt!"</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">7. Chill about an hour.</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">8. When ready to serve let the kids decorate with worms and frogs!</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Don't be surprised if dirt cups become one of their favorite treats.</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Getting Kids into the Kitchen,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach for Kids</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-60254709620919873562017-03-17T22:02:00.000-07:002017-03-28T22:02:32.291-07:00A Little St. Patrick's Day History...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3GT7ihd4Ix8/UTTPAsSqsNI/AAAAAAAABaQ/cVIHynG8hSg/s1600/Happy+St+Pats+Day+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3GT7ihd4Ix8/UTTPAsSqsNI/AAAAAAAABaQ/cVIHynG8hSg/s1600/Happy+St+Pats+Day+001.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">What's all the fuss about St. Patrick anyway?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">“Well he was not a leprechaun who drank green beer or had a blarney stone or a pot of gold,” explains historian William Federer, who wrote St. Patrick: The Real History of His Life, From Tragedy to Triumph. “He was actually a missionary and he converted 120,000 druids from paganism to Christianity.”</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Who was St. Patrick really?</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is one of Christianity's most widely known figures. But for all his celebrity, his life remains somewhat of a mystery. Many of the stories traditionally associated with St. Patrick, including the famous account of his banishing all the snakes from Ireland, are false, the products of hundreds of years of exaggerated storytelling.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Patrick preached about Jesus Christ, spread Christianity across the British Isles, and spoke out against slavery. Some historians even call him the world’s first abolitionist!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">I love a parade...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">The first St. Patrick's Day parade took place not in Ireland, but in the United States. Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through New York City on March 17, 1762. Along with their music, the parade helped the soldiers to reconnect with their Irish roots, as well as fellow Irishmen serving in the English army</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">And then there's the Chicago River...</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Chicago is also famous for dyeing the Chicago River green. The tradition started in 1962, when city pollution-control workers used dyes to trace illegal sewage discharges and realized that the green dye might provide a unique way to celebrate the holiday. That year, they released 100 pounds of green vegetable dye into the river—enough to keep it green for a week!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Today, in order to minimize environmental damage, only forty pounds of dye are used, making the river green for only several hours. Although Chicago historians claim their city 's idea for a river of green was original, some Savannah natives believe the idea originated in their town.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">What about corned beef and cabbage? </span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">About 41.5 billion pounds and 2.6 billion pounds of U.S. beef and cabbage, respectively, were sold in 2007. Corned beef and cabbage is a traditional St. Patrick's Day dish. The corned beef celebrants eat on St. Patrick's Day may very well have originated in Texas, which produced 6.8 billion pounds worth of beef, while the cabbage most likely came from California, which produced 581 million pounds worth, or New York (580 million pounds).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">And, a little Irish Soda Bread for ye?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Irish Soda Bread gets its name and distinctive character from the use of baking soda instead of yeast as the leavening agent.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">How 'bout those Shamrocks!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">There are 4 places in the United States named Shamrock, the floral emblem of Ireland. Mount Gay-Shamrock, W.Va., and Shamrock, TX, were the most populous, with 2,623 and 1,841 residents, respectively. Shamrock Lakes, Ind., had 162 residents and Shamrock, OK, 125.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Emerald Isle, North Carolina?</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Yep! Who wudda thunk right here in the good ol' USA is Emerald Isle, NC, with 3,686 residents!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Irish Americans</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">A total of 4.8 million immigrants from Ireland have been admitted to the U.S. for lawful permanent residence since fiscal year 1820, the earliest year for which official immigration records exist. By fiscal year 1870, about half of these immigrants were admitted for lawful permanent residence. Only Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and Mexico have had more immigrants admitted for permanent residence to the United States than Ireland.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Wearing of the Green Goes Global</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Today, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated by people of all backgrounds in the United States, Canada, and Australia. Although North America is home to the largest productions, St. Patrick's Day has been celebrated in other locations far from Ireland, including Japan, Singapore, and Russia.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">In modern-day Ireland, St. Patrick's Day has traditionally been a religious occasion. In fact, up until the 1970s, Irish laws mandated that pubs be closed on March 17. Beginning in 1995, however, the Irish government began a national campaign to use St. Patrick's Day as an opportunity to drive tourism and showcase Ireland to the rest of the world. Last year, close to one million people took part in Ireland 's St. Patrick's Festival in Dublin, a multi-day celebration featuring parades, concerts, outdoor theater productions, and fireworks shows.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Everybody's Irish on St. Patrick's Day!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Patrick's mission in Ireland is said to have lasted for thirty years. It is believe he died in the 5th century on March 17, which is the day St. Patrick's Day is commemorated each year.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">The first year St. Patrick's Day was celebrated in America in 1737 in Boston, Massachusetts. The first official St. Patrick's Day parade was held in New York City in 1766. As the saying goes, on this day "everybody is Irish!" Over 100 U.S. cities now hold Saint Patrick's Day parades.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Have a great St. Patrick's Day and give the kids just a little history of the "green day" while you're stirring up something special and green in the kitchen today!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Getting Kids into the Kitchen,</span><br />
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach for Kids</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-68249857218874596132017-03-17T07:55:00.000-07:002017-03-28T21:58:07.033-07:00Shake it up GREEN!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vwwm12d4gr4/UUXZHWObKwI/AAAAAAAABaw/9h-Lestvu2g/s1600/Leprechaun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vwwm12d4gr4/UUXZHWObKwI/AAAAAAAABaw/9h-Lestvu2g/s1600/Leprechaun.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Hey, all my little </span><span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">leprechauns</span><span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">... Being "green" is not as hard as it sounds and celebrating St. Patrick's Day is always fun! So let's celebrate the "wearing of the green" with Slurpee Shamrock Shakes!</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />This very easy one needs adult supervision for operating the blender... but let the kids dump the ingredients in and scoop the ice cream!</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">Don your aprons for the green "splatter factor"... or, you could be really wearing green!<br /><br />Oh, and I suggest that you allow each child to make their own shake... it will only take a few more minutes.</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Ingredients for one shake:</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br />1 banana (not a green one, no pun intended)</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br />2 cups milk</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br />1/2 cup green mint ice cream.</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Have the kids peel the bananas and break them up in pieces... dump them in the blender. Let the kids measure out the milk... good practice for them... and a little hint here... use a large, 4-cup clear measuring cup... it will help prevent spills and also teaching the kids to shoot for exact measurements. And, they can see what they're doing!</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Now, let them scoop out the ice cream and smash it into a 1/2 cup measuring cup... yes, let them cheat just a tad with a bit extra... and plop the ice cream in the blender.</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">The adult helper is always in charge of the blender and can allow the kids to push buttons (your call on this one... but safety is always first)!</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />The shake only needs to be blended and it will take about a minute (depending on your blender)... you want it smooth and creamy. If the kids like thicker shakes then let them put in more than 1/2 cup of ice cream.</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;">If you have any green sprinkles around... pour the shake into a glass and top with green sprinkles... it's magical... watch out for the leprechauns!</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Happy Saint Paddy's Day and Happy Cooking!</span> <span style="color: #009900; font-weight: bold;"><br />Jan McCracken, Kids Culinary Chef</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-42035132488260107142017-03-14T22:01:00.000-07:002017-03-28T22:01:43.471-07:00Lucky Leprechaun Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fgBXoJ10FTs/UT1i0IgNnGI/AAAAAAAABag/_BwCQVud19o/s1600/leprechaun+CHEF!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fgBXoJ10FTs/UT1i0IgNnGI/AAAAAAAABag/_BwCQVud19o/s1600/leprechaun+CHEF!.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">These cookies are easy peasy and, of course, they're GREEN!</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">Here's what you'll need:</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">1 package instant pistachio pudding mix</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">1/4 cup vegetable oil</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">1 egg</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">3/4 cup Bisquick mix</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">And... let the kids do the rest! Mix all of the ingredients together and let them stir till their little heart's content :-) I've said it before... kids do love to stir things up!</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">Roll dough into 1-inch balls between those little hands! Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and and gently flatten each cookie with the bottom of a glass or if the kids would rather make hash marks on the cookies, use a fork (dip it in ice water if the forks sticks to the cookies dough).</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">Bake about 8 minutes until just golden..,. maybe 10 minutes (depending on your oven).</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">Have a St. Patrick's Day Tea Party!</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">Happy Cooking with Kids,</span></b></div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #38761d;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</span></b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-23370455584944691442014-10-25T19:29:00.000-07:002014-10-25T19:29:27.231-07:00Halloween Pumpkin Pizza Recipe...<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Mj_YgRLpr4/UIcSByKg76I/AAAAAAAABDA/n5KhDo9TGQ4/s1600/Image7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Mj_YgRLpr4/UIcSByKg76I/AAAAAAAABDA/n5KhDo9TGQ4/s320/Image7.jpg" height="320" width="242" /></a></div>
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Grab your aprons! We're going to make Pumpkin Pizza for Halloween... It's a fun spinoff of pumpkin pie and very "kid friendly!" Kids, let's head for the kitchen!<br />
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I'm going to lay this out for you by letting you know several things:<br />
* What kids will learn making Pumpkin Pizza<br />
* What you need (gather these things and utensils before you start... well, at least before the kids hit the kitchen!<br />
* Ingredients<br />
* Recipe<br />
* Directions<br />
* Guaranteed FUN!<br />
<br />
Making a Pumpkin Pizza is not all about Halloween! This cooking exercise in the kitchen can help kids:<br />
* Learn more about foods and how different foods can be used... for instance, pumpkin isn't just for carving... and it isn't just for pies!<br />
* If you have more than one child cooking, they will learn about "taking turns."<br />
* Kids will be developing their imaginations without even being aware of it!<br />
* Learning patience while the pizza cooks and cools.<br />
<br />
Gather these utensils in advance:<br />
* Cookie Sheet<br />
* Aluminum Foil<br />
* Spatula (maybe 2)<br />
* Large Mixing Bowl<br />
* Rolling Pin<br />
* Cooling Rack<br />
* Large Round Serving Plate<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
* 1 package refrigerated sugar cookie dough<br />
* 1 cup canned pumpkin<br />
* 8-ounce package of low-fat cream cheese<br />
* 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar<br />
* 1/4 cup brown sugar<br />
* 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice<br />
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon<br />
* Black & Green decorator frosting<br />
* Candy Corn<br />
* Cooking Spray<br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Have cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing.<br />
2. Cover a large cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Grease foil well with cooking spray.<br />
3. Roll out cookie dough into a 12-inch circle... no, it doesn't have to be "perfect"... let the kids do it!<br />
4. Bake in pre-heated 350-degree oven for about 15 minutes or until just lightly browned.<br />
5. Let the kids know that they always need an "adult helper" in putting things in and out of the oven. Remember you are HELPING them...<br />
6. Place the cookie sheet on a cooling rack to cool.<br />
7. Begin cleaning up the mess and washing the dishes while the pizza is baking... yep, let the kids do it! This is a very important part of "organizing" and learning ALL about cooking.<br />
8. While the cookie pizza is cooling... In mixing bowl cream the cream cheese... this may be a step for the "adult sous chef" to show the kids how to use a hand mixer and talk about safety in the kitchen.<br />
9. Blend in canned pumpkin and let the kids stir it into the cream cheese... if a spatula doesn't work for them... give them an old-fashioned wooden spoon!<br />
10. Add the powdered sugar... step back... if you add it all at once there will be clouds in the kitchen! This is a great place to demonstrate patience by adding little bits of powdered sugar at a time.<br />
11. Stir in the light brown sugar along with the pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon. Be sure to let the kids do the measuring! It's a good time to show them how to level off spoonfuls... but don't forget... our grandmothers and great-grandmothers didn't use measuring spoons very much... it was a pinch here and a pinch there and a handful here... so don't worry if they don't get it perfect.<br />
12. When the pumpkin pizza is cool, peel off the aluminum foil and place it on the large, round serving plate.<br />
13. Spread the pumpkin mixture on the pizza... decorate as desired with the decorator cake icing, outlining a mouth and eyes and using the green icing for a stem. The candy corn can be used to fill in for teeth in the mouth.<br />
<br />
Serve while warm... like pumpkin pie... you could even add a dollop of ice cream or whipped cream!<br />
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MOST OF ALL... have fun! Please write me and tell us all how your pumpkin pizza turns out!<br />
<br />
Happy Cooking,<br />
Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach & "Adult Sous Chef"Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-80510056343279757922014-02-11T20:42:00.000-08:002014-02-11T20:42:01.326-08:00A Little About Valentine's Day...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>When the kids are in the kitchen it's a great time to teach them multi-tasking... cleaning up while goodies are baking... and reading while a special dish is baking... and sharing a little history about the time of year and the holiday that you're celebrating with food.</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>And, so... Valentine's Day is coming up pretty quickly and I wanted to give you a little thumbnail sketch about Valentine's Day. Come back soon as I'll have some fun recipes for you and the kids...</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>A Little About Valentine's Day...
</b></span><br />
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<div class="p" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>Long ago Valentine’s Day was called “Bird’s Wedding Day”. It was
then believed that birds selected their mates and began breeding the second week
of the second month or February 14th!</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>The celebration of Valentine’s Day began many years ago with the
custom of the Feast of Lupercalia in ancient Rome. This Feast was a celebration
of fertility and was celebrated on February 15th. One of the ancient customs of
this festival was a love urn. On this special day in February, young maidens
wrote love messages and placed them in the love urn. The young, unmarried men
then drew the messages from the urn and courted the young girl whose message he
received.</b></span></div>
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</b></span><br />
<div class="p" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>As the story of Saint Valentine goes, there was a man in ancient
Rome named Valentine who was a physician practicing medicine out of his home.
Valentine was a kind hearted man taking great interest and care in his patients
prescribing medicines of herbs and roots.</b></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>
</b></span><br />
<div class="p" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>At that time in history, religion was a very controversial issue
with many being persecuted for their beliefs. However, Valentine was a very
spiritual man with religion being a significant part of his life. In his
medical practice, Valentine would often offer prayer for the health of his
patients and loved ones.</b></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>
</b></span><br />
<div class="p" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>As the story goes, there was a jailer for the Emperor of Rome who
had a blind daughter. The jailer heard of Valentine’s healings and brought his
blind daughter to him for treatment. Valentine examined the small girl and
prescribed some ointment for her eyes. The jailer faithfully continued to bring
his little girl to Valentine for treatment with no improvement.</b></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>
</b></span><br />
<div class="p" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>One day Roman soldiers arrested Valentine, destroying all of his
medicines. Admonishing him for his religious beliefs, Valentine was taken to
jail. When the jailer learned of Valentine’s arrest he was distressed but could
do nothing! Valentine knew he would be executed and requested a paper, pen and
ink. Valentine wrote a note and handed it to the jailer requesting that the
jailer deliver the handwritten note to his blind daughter. Valentine was
martyred on February 14, 270 A.D.</b></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>
</b></span><br />
<div class="p" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>The jailer’s spirit ached as he arrived home. He handed the little
blind girl the note from Valentine with the handwritten message, “From your
Valentine”. Upon opening the note, the little girl found a yellow crocus tucked
inside—at that moment a miracle occurred and the little girl saw beautiful
color for the first time in her life—her eyesight was restored!</b></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>
</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>February 14th was named Saint Valentine’s Day in 496 by Pope
Gelasius I. In the sixteenth century the paper Valentine appeared with
sentimental verses. By the late 1800’s delicate lace papers accompanied
sentimental verses for Valentine’s Day. Today all types of Valentine cards are
exchanged showing love and affection of February 14th.</b></span></div>
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><b>
</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>May the true miracle of Saint Valentine’s Day bless you! </b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>As Spring
brings the little crocus popping their heads through the snow, may it be a
reminder of the little girl in ancient Rome and bring a new meaning to your
spirit and your heart of Valentine’s Day—Will you be my Valentine?</b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="p" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>Note: This is an excerpt from one of the Little Books of Tea that I wrote... 18 Little Books... soon to all be on Amazon in ebook format. I'll let you know when all 18 Little Books of Tea are available for download... they are fun and quick reads with great recipes!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>Happy cooking with Kids,</b></span></div>
<div class="p" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #a64d79; font-size: x-small;"><b>Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</b></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-11375568442278149722014-02-11T12:35:00.000-08:002014-02-11T20:41:06.475-08:00Instant Strawberry Hearts for Valentine's Day!<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">A great snack for the kids to create almost by themselves... it's a Valentine Muffin!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">You'll need:</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">English muffins of your choice</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Cream cheese (plain or strawberry would be "berry cool")</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">BIG strawberries</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Let's do it!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">The adult helper can split the English muffin in half and the kids can place them in the toaster or the toaster oven. Let the muffins cool slightly to touch.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">While the are cooling a bit, the kids can rinse their BIG strawberry and pat it dry with a paper towel. Then let them use a "child safe knife" and cut the strawberry in half forming a magical heart!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Spread cream cheese on the muffin and place the "heart berry" in the middle. For extra <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pizzzazzz</span> of the day, you might have some small heart-shaped paper doilies in the pantry. A perfect way make this snack a true Valentine celebration by placing the doily on the plate (let the kids do it!)... and then placing the Valentine muffin on the doily.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Who said that special treats have to be difficult?</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Happy Valentine's Day and Happy Cooking,</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Jan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">McCracken</span>, Culinary Coach</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-81763146902990344352014-02-10T07:00:00.000-08:002014-02-11T20:35:55.944-08:00Washington's Birthday Cherry Brownies<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">President's Day has become one of those "floating holidays" and we combine all of the past President celebrations on that day... however, I'm an old-fashioned girl and I still like to recognize Lincoln on his birthday and Washington on his birthday.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">So, here's a a really easy way to make Washington's birthday special for the kids. While you're making these special Cherry Brownies, you might want to do a little research and give the kids some of the fun history of George Washington and the cherry tree.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Have fun with this and Happy Birthday, President Washington!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Washington's Birthday Cherry Brownies</span><br />
<br />
<div style="color: red; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">
1 package (21.5-ounce) brownie mix</div>
<div style="color: red; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">
1 cup cherry pie filling (canned)</div>
<div style="color: red; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">
1/4 cup oil (canola or your preference)</div>
<div style="color: red; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">
2 large eggs</div>
<div style="color: red; font-weight: bold; text-align: left;">
1 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">In a mixing bowl, dump in the brownie mix. Measure and add the oil. Break eggs in a separate small bowl or cup. Add eggs. Stir well. Add cherry pie filling and stir until blended into brownie mixture.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Note: Reserve some cherry pie filling to use as a topping on the brownie, if desired.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Use a 13" x 9" baking pan. Grease the bottom only. Note: If you prefer a spray oil that will work or have the kids put a small amount of oil or butter on a piece of waxed paper and let them rub it all over the bottom of the pan... this on is much more fun!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Pour batter into pan and spread evenly. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes. Be careful not to over bake and dry out the brownies! Insert a toothpick to test.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">While the brownies are till hot from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">oven</span> (yes, the adult helper needs to do this!)... sprinkle the top of the brownies with the chocolate chips. Spread them around and they will melt.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Top the brownies with fresh whipped cream, or... if you want it to be very special, serve the brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and top with a small amount of the cherry pie filling. Stick a small American flag in the middle for a real George Washington birthday celebration!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Happy Cooking with Kids,</span><br />
<span style="color: red; font-weight: bold;">Jan <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">McCracken</span>, Culinary Coach</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-59446348153137980022013-05-20T08:13:00.000-07:002013-05-20T08:13:06.666-07:00Get those little gardeners ready!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S0HT5xioze0/UZo9TGzFxII/AAAAAAAABdc/nlj1wjCeJLk/s1600/Garden+Heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S0HT5xioze0/UZo9TGzFxII/AAAAAAAABdc/nlj1wjCeJLk/s1600/Garden+Heart.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;">Are you ready to begin planting? You say, you don't have space for a garden... got a windowsill? Kids love this planting project... and love watching things sprout and grow. So let's get to it!</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">For our first spring gardening project we're going to do something that brings almost immediate gratification to the kids to "see something growing!"<br /><br />We're going to sprout some sprouts of alfalfa seeds!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Here's what you'll need:</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Alfalfa seeds</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Clear glass quart jar</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">A square of cheesecloth that will cover the top of the jar</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">A </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">strong</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> rubber band that fits the top of the jar tightly</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Make the first part of this project an after dinner deal and just before the kids go to bed... the alfalfa seeds need to soak overnight. Have the kids measure out about 3 tablespoons of seeds.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Put the seeds on a baking sheet and show the kids how to "sort seeds"... as you know, any time you cook beans, you need to pick out the less desirable ones... same with alfalfa seeds. Also, there just might be some dirt and small rocks mixed in. This is a great exercise for the kids in math... learning about "measurements"... and following directions and doing things the way they are supposed to be done... "sorting the seeds." And they will love it!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">After the seed sorting is done, put the seeds in a strainer and rinse them under running water. Yes, the kids can do this!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Put the rinsed seeds in to the jar and add enough water to cover them. Tell the seeds "good night," letting them soak until the kids get up the next morning.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">After breakfast, it's project time! Pour the seeds out of the jar back into the strainer and strain them. Then rinse well with cold water. Place the seeds back in the jar. Cover the top of the jar with the cheesecloth and secure with a rubber band.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Turn the jar upside down and kinda shake the seeds around making sure they are pretty dry. If you leave too much water on the seeds, they might rot... however, I'm sure the kids will make sure they are well-drained!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Before bedtime, fill the jar with fresh water (you don't have to remove the cheesecloth) rinsing the seeds again. Turn the jar upside down draining the water off. Again, shake the seeds.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Repeat this procedure every day, morning and night for 4 or 5 days... the kids will magically see tiny green leaves and white shoots appear! They will be thrilled!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">The sprouts will be ready to eat within 5 or 6 days... maybe sooner if you live in a warmer climate... where the sprouts are in your kitchen can have an effect on how quickly they grow as well.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #274e13;">So.... happy sprouting... come back soon and I'll have some "sprout recipes" that the kids can actually use what they have grown in a recipe and eat it! What fun!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Gleeful Gardening,</span><br />
<span style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach for Kids</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-35375262106560594632013-03-27T09:19:00.000-07:002013-03-27T09:19:35.608-07:00Let's Build an Easter Bunny Cake!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SgKi4Aglj_E/UVMcCk-V3lI/AAAAAAAABbE/C3vMXQeA2Qk/s1600/Bunny+Cake+for+Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SgKi4Aglj_E/UVMcCk-V3lI/AAAAAAAABbE/C3vMXQeA2Qk/s1600/Bunny+Cake+for+Blog.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>This cake has been a long time favorite for the Easter table centerpiece! </b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>The only thing that has changed seems to be instead of using a basic white cake mix, there are all kinds of cake mix choices out there... why not try a carrot cake (the bunny would like that!)... Anyway, I've made these directions pretty generic so you can let the kids get creative... so here we go...</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>This recipe makes two bunny cakes... here's what you'll need:</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>1 box of cake mix of your choice</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>2 cans frosting</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Coconut</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Jelly beans</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Green food coloring (for grass)</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Ingredients to make box cake</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Pink construction paper (for the ears) </b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Let the kids do as much as possible on this... all but using the electric mixer :-)</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Preheat the oven to the requirement on the box. Prepare the cake mix according to the package directions. Pour into 2 round 8-inch or 9-inch layer pans. Bake according to the package directions. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Remove cake layers from pans and then allow to cool completely. </b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>While the cake layers are cooling either cover two pieces of cardboard with aluminum foil or find 2 flat plates to place the bunnies on. You can also go ahead and cut out the pink bunny ears from pink construction paper.</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>All righty... let's build bunnies! Here's your road map...</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Cut one layer in half. Put halves together with frosting. Stand cake upright on cut edge. Using a sharp knife (adult helper here, please)... cut a V-notch about 1/2 of the way up the semi-circle. Use the cake notched cut out pieces to attach with toothpicks for the tail. The area below the notch will will form bunny's head. The 2/3 area above the notch will shape the bunny's rounded back. Frost with remaining frosting from first can of frosting.</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Generously sprinkle with white coconut... the kids love this part! Use jelly beans for eyes and nose (the nose has to be pink :-)! Place the pink construction paper ears in the bunny's head.</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>Place coconut in a jar with a drop or two of green food coloring and shake it up, baby! Voila... you've got grass to spread around the bunny! Add some jelly beans to look like eggs in the grass.</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>This old recipe seems always to please. The kids will be so tickled with their Easter Bunny creation! Isn't it just the best, getting kids into the kitchen?</b></div>
<div style="color: #6aa84f;">
<b>May you and your family have a blessed Easter!</b></div>
<b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach for Kids</span></b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-81267113783102342972013-02-08T08:53:00.000-08:002013-02-08T10:16:58.244-08:00How do you say Happy New Year in Chinese?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g148o1aXHMw/URUo8sxTdJI/AAAAAAAABZ4/_ZZmdx_YRMc/s1600/Happy+Chinese+New+Year.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g148o1aXHMw/URUo8sxTdJI/AAAAAAAABZ4/_ZZmdx_YRMc/s320/Happy+Chinese+New+Year.jpg" width="271" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">The kids will have fun learning a little Mandarin Chinese and </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">greeting </span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"> their friends and family with Happy New Year...</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"> Here's how to say it in Mandarin Chinese </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">which literally means, </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">"Congratulations, may you be prosperous."</span></b></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"> "Xin [sing] Nian [nee-an] Kuai [kwai] Le [ler]"</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">The Cantonese, "Gong Hey Fat Choy" is the most popular and probably the easiest for the kids! </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Even though the pronunciations are a little different, both are written the same way </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">in Chinese characters.</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><b></b></span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Here's the Chinese Symbol for Happy Chinese New Year: </span></b></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 32px; font-weight: bold;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000; font-size: large;"> (<span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic';">恭禧發財</span>)</span></b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Please keep in mind that there are more than 150 dialects in China so there are many different greetings that mean the same thing. When I was in China, people in Northern China didn't understand people from other provinces in China! </span></b></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">The kids might also have a lot of fun trying to draw the Chinese characters for "Happy Chinese New Year"... just do a search online and print out the characters. If you have a light box, it's really fun for them to trace them and then go over the characters with a colored marker! All great learning experiences as we teach our kids to take a glimpse into other cultures and learn what little friends around the world are celebrating.</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">May you all have a happy and prosperous Year of the Snake 2013!</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Gong Hey Fat Choy!</span></b></div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Jan McCracken, Kids Culinary Coach</span></b></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-18888540947946854722013-02-07T09:32:00.000-08:002013-02-07T09:35:10.321-08:00Chinese Noodle Cookies...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bn88XH7EwGY/URPlCTpYxQI/AAAAAAAABZU/-ZwaU5F9QSc/s1600/Year+of+the+Snake+for+Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bn88XH7EwGY/URPlCTpYxQI/AAAAAAAABZU/-ZwaU5F9QSc/s1600/Year+of+the+Snake+for+Blog.jpg" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b></b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>These are sooooo easy and the kids will love them.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Celebration of looking forward to a year of prosperity, food is very important on Chinese New Year... these are drop cookies but because of the Chinese noodles, they resemble "nests." The Chinese prepare some foods in the resemblance of nests as a sign of prosperity for the New Year! Be sure to talk about these fun little bits of history when you're baking the cookies... the kids will love hearing about new things!</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Here's what you'll need for the cookies (please substitute the "chips" for your favorite whether it be white chocolate, milk chocolate... whatever the kids choose):</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>1 (12-ounce) bag butterscotch chips</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>1 (5-ounce) can chow mein noodles</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>1/2 can dry roasted peanuts</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>2 cookie sheets</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Waxed paper</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Line both cookie sheets with wax paper; set aside.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Melt the butterscotch chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth or in a bowl on top of a simmering pot of water. Fold in the chow mein noodles to coat completely.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Gather scant tablespoons of the mixture and drop onto the prepared sheet pans. Refrigerate until set, about 5 minutes.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Have fun cooking for Chinese New Year with the kids!</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Jan McCracken, Kids Culinary Coach</b></span><br />
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-37773722308337774922013-02-05T11:54:00.000-08:002013-02-05T11:57:26.164-08:00Auspicious Fortune Cookies!<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZuvFd7COls/URFibCTc3KI/AAAAAAAABY8/AL-AuLI63f8/s1600/2013+Fortune+Cookie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZuvFd7COls/URFibCTc3KI/AAAAAAAABY8/AL-AuLI63f8/s320/2013+Fortune+Cookie.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Fun for celebrating Chinese New Year! </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Fortune cookies are fun to make and a sure way to get the creative juices
running in the kids as well as some good laughs making memories in the kitchen.</span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">
</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Chinese New Year is all about “good fortune” for the coming year so what
better way to celebrate than to make your own fortune cookies!</span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Here’s a recipe that will make 12 fortune cookies:</span></b></span></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">
</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">
1 egg white <br />
Tiny amount of vanilla extract <br />
1 pinch salt <br />
1/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour <br />
1/4 cup white sugar </span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">
</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Have the kids write their fortunes on strips of white paper (pieces about 4 inches x 1/2-
inch).</span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">
</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. </span></b><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Grease two cookie sheets and set aside.</span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">
</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Adult helper, please beat the egg white and vanilla until foamy but not stiff with an electric mixer. Have the kids do the measuring and left them sift the flour,
salt, and sugar and fold gently. Then they can fold the dry ingredients into the egg white mixture. Kids love learning the "folding" skill!</span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">
</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Place a teaspoonful of the batter onto one of the prepared cookie sheets,
and tilt the sheet to encourage the batter to form into a nice round shape
about 3 inches in diameter. Repeat, leaving at least 2 inches between the
cookies, and sticking to no more than 2 or 3 per sheet as you will need to work
with them quickly while they are hot. DO NOT let the kids work with the hot cookies! </span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">
</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Put the first sheet into the oven and bake for about 5 minutes, watching
carefully, until the cookie has turned a golden color around the outer edge of
the circle (the center should remain pale.</span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Note: Have the kids sit on the floor and watch the cookies closely as they can
easily burn on the edges! They will love it! </span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Remove cookies from the oven and very quickly lift one of the cookies
with a spatula and turn upside down onto a wooden board. Adult needed here, please! </span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"> Place the fortune in
the middle of the cookie and fold the cookie in half. Place the folded edge
across the rim of a cup or glass and pull the pointed edges down, one on the
inside of the cup and one on the outside. Stand the folded cookies in the cups
of a muffin tin or egg carton until they cool so that they hold their shape. </span></b></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Be sure to mix the cookies up for the kids to make their choices. If you want more cookies, just double the ingredients!</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;"> May your Year of the Snake be blessed and propserous,</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</span></b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-42052423971533847952013-02-04T08:45:00.000-08:002013-02-04T16:06:46.037-08:00Happy Chinese New Year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DYlJ3Qd1mmg/UQ_kwnV_2jI/AAAAAAAABYM/Vk97CkSHHdQ/s1600/Snake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DYlJ3Qd1mmg/UQ_kwnV_2jI/AAAAAAAABYM/Vk97CkSHHdQ/s320/Snake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2013 is the Year of the Snake. Celebrating Chinese New Year can be a blast for kids as well as a grand learning experience!</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">They can learn the appreciation of Chinese history as well as a lot about the culture while having a great time. Chinese New Year is sometimes called Spring Festival and is the most important of all holidays in China. There are special foods that are eaten during Chinese New Year and I'll be back with some recipes for you and the kids to prepare for your celebration!</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">It would be fun for you to do a search for Chinese animals for the kids to look up their year of birth and match it with their Chinese animal in the Chinese Zodiac. This is not like fortunetelling and can be a fun-filled research exercise for the kids as they learn about ancient Chinese history. </span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;"><b><br />
The zodiac sign of the Snake symbolizes traits such as gracefulness, intuition, introspection, materialism and intelligence. </b></span><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
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<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">Chinese New Year welcomes the Lunar New Year this year on February 10th. The dates of Chinese New Year change every year. The Snake is
the sixth sign of the Chinese Zodiac which consists of 12 Animal signs. </span></b></div>
</div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">Happy Chinese New Year!</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;"> </span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">Come back in the next few days for some fun recipes for celebrating and head to the kitchen with the kids!</span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">Happy Cooking with Kids,</span></b></div>
<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</span></b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-15383152472723577102012-12-27T10:48:00.000-08:002012-12-27T18:15:11.306-08:00New Year's Slushies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i9XkvsUETWo/Tv1Mum0Jm3I/AAAAAAAAAtM/78lfDXarfLA/s1600/New+Years+Slushie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i9XkvsUETWo/Tv1Mum0Jm3I/AAAAAAAAAtM/78lfDXarfLA/s1600/New+Years+Slushie.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>Kids adore fancy glasses and if you pop one of those little umbrellas in "anything" they are thrilled... add a garnish of a slice of fresh pineapple or a strawberry on the side of the glass and... wow... they feel very grown up!</b></div>
<div style="color: #0b5394;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>So let's make New Year's Eve special and get the kids back in the kitchen. Here's what you'll need for a tasty and fun slushie..</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>
</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>1 can frozen orange juice concentrate<br />
1 pint pineapple juice<br />
3 ripe bananas </b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>Ginger ale</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>Little paper party umbrellas</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>Fresh strawberries or fresh pineapple for garnish (or a skinny orange slice)</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>Combine ingredients in a pitcher. Freeze until mixture is slushy, stirring with a wooden spoon. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>Spoon
2 or 3 tablespoons (or more) into a party glass and add ginger ale... bubbles are fun for New Year's no matter your age!</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>Add some fun New Year's hats and noisemakers (from the $ store) and you have celebrating kids!</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #0b5394;">
<b>2013 Blessings and Happy, Happy New Year,</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</span></b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-22995669147576140132012-12-24T08:57:00.000-08:002012-12-24T08:57:19.765-08:00Ho Ho Ho... Reindeer Cookies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="color: red;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGH9frBPebA/UNiI7YqjWvI/AAAAAAAABT4/dtVPJI-d-k4/s1600/Reindeer+Cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGH9frBPebA/UNiI7YqjWvI/AAAAAAAABT4/dtVPJI-d-k4/s1600/Reindeer+Cookies.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Something easy for the kids to do on Christmas Eve!</b><br />
<br />
<b>Do these look like a ton of fun or what? The kids are gonna love 'em! Let's put these reindeer together... 'Tis the season to get kids cooking!</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>1 (18-ounce) refrigerated peanut butter cookie dough (you can use sugar cookie dough if you'd rather... the peanut butter just makes them "look more" like reindeer)</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>38 small pretzel twists</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>48 brown M&M's</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>24 red M&M's</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Put the cookie dough in the freezer for about 15 minutes before calling the kids into the kitchen (just so the dough is good and firm).</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Place the chilled cookie dough on a piece of waxed paper and the adult helper needs to cut the roll into 24 slices. Place the slices on a large ungreased cookie sheet.</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>Now for the fun... let the kids "pinch" the cheeks of each reindeer making an indentation on each side that makes a reindeer face! Carefully place 2 pretzels at the top of each slice to form the reindeer antlers. Create the eyes and red nose (it must be Rudolph!) with the M&M's. The kids will love this part!</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until just golden brown. Remove from oven and cool completely.</b><br />
<b>P.S. Santa might enjoy a couple of these :-) </b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Merry, Merry!</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Happy Christmas Cooking with Kids,</b></div>
<b><span style="color: red;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</span></b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-63760798961184533052012-12-21T09:23:00.000-08:002012-12-21T09:25:46.909-08:00Fudge-Filled Cookie Cutters!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="color: red;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vbu-Lgvar-8/UNSajxVR3CI/AAAAAAAABTY/ESJRAGepuhA/s1600/Cookie+Cutter+Fudge+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vbu-Lgvar-8/UNSajxVR3CI/AAAAAAAABTY/ESJRAGepuhA/s1600/Cookie+Cutter+Fudge+01.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>All righty... these are so much fun to make and easy, peasy! More great gifts that the kids will be so tickled to give with a big grin and "look what I made!"<span style="color: red;"> </span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="color: red;">You can pull out your own favorites fudge recipe but I've got a "Peppermint Fudge" recipe here for you that looks soooooo festive and tastes yummy... Does this sound like Christmas or what? Just imagine "this fudge" in the cookie cutters at the top of the post... pretty cool, huh? Let's get started... first of all buy Christmas cookie cutters... they are on sale every where right now. You can even find some large copper ones at some of the dollar stores. Or, you can buy a couple dozen of different shapes and sizes too! And the plastic red and green ones look great too! So many choices :-)...</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jb3MFrhKpjg/UNSavyNH9XI/AAAAAAAABTg/NkLEhHj3hTg/s1600/Cookie+Cutter+Fudge+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jb3MFrhKpjg/UNSavyNH9XI/AAAAAAAABTg/NkLEhHj3hTg/s1600/Cookie+Cutter+Fudge+02.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: red; text-align: left;">
<b></b></div>
<span style="color: red;"><b>Here we go...</b></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>2 (10-ounce) packages vanilla baking chips</b></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk</b></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (add more if you want it more minty!)</b></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>1 1/2 cups crushed candy canes</b></span><br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>Just a quick dash of red food coloring</b></span><br />
<div class="ingredients" style="margin-top: 10px;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;">
<b>Let the kids... Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray the inside of the cookie cutters with non-stick cooking spray. Line the cookie cutters up on the parchment paper and set aside. </b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;">
<b>Let the kids do the measuring and crushing of the candy canes (they love doing this)! <span class="plaincharacterwrapbreak">Combine the vanilla chips and sweetened
condensed milk in a saucepan. We need the adult helper to cook over medium heat. Stir frequently until
almost melted, remove from heat and continue to stir until smooth. When chips
are completely melted, stir in the peppermint extract, food coloring, and
crushed candy canes. </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;">
<b><span class="plaincharacterwrapbreak">Remove from heat and pour into the cookie cutters and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Now the kids can place the cookie cutters in plain or decorative Christmas cellophane bags and tie at the bottom.</span></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;">
<b><span class="plaincharacterwrapbreak"> </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;">
<b><span class="plaincharacterwrapbreak">If you use clear cello bags, let the kids decorate them with Christmas stickers... again, I encourage you to let the kids use their imagination and creativity... ALWAYS!</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;">
<b><span class="plaincharacterwrapbreak">Merry, Merry!</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: red;">
<b><span class="plaincharacterwrapbreak">'Tis the Season to Get Kids Cooking,</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="plaincharacterwrapbreak"><b><span style="color: red;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</span></b></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-60929968293057724302012-12-20T08:34:00.000-08:002012-12-20T08:36:30.274-08:00Homemade Christmas Dough Ornaments...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kDPn1YHUBzc/UNM9nkurTxI/AAAAAAAABS0/PewF4QmPZb4/s1600/Dough+Ornaments+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kDPn1YHUBzc/UNM9nkurTxI/AAAAAAAABS0/PewF4QmPZb4/s320/Dough+Ornaments+02.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Most of the kids will be out of school as of Friday and goodness knows there's probably still lots to do! If you want something to keep those little hands busy this weekend, let them make dough ornaments in all shapes and sizes!</span></span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Even though the tree has more than likely been up and decorated for weeks, the kids will love making these Christmas treasures. They can be personalized and even used as "special" gift tags for Christmas gifts. You think Grandma and Aunt Mary wouldn't love one too? And, with the New Year coming they can make some with a New Year theme... they can be hung like suncatchers in their bedroom windows, given to little friends with a few cookies in a little bag for a "Happy New Year" wish... maybe a new tradition will be created. </span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">These easy little ornaments bring out the creativity in everyone and add to the whimsy of celebrating this blessed season. </span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Another great idea is to hot glue a silver safety pin to the back (with assistance from the adult helper) for a little gift. All, adding that very special "it's homemade" touch!</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Let's get started...</span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Here's the easy recipe:</span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">1 cup salt<br />
1 cup water<br />
2 cups flour</span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Christmas cookie cutters (plus trains, teddy bears, New Year's, Christmas Story... anything in the "favorite" department)!</span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Pins for back</span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Hot glue gun</span></span></b><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Suggestions for decorating: Glitter of all kinds (kids love glitter); puff paints; 3-D paint; acrylic paints; silver and gold stars... check your craft bins! </span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><i>Note: Have the kids write their names and the date on the back of each creation!</i><br />
<br />
Mix all ingredients together. Consistency will be pretty stiff. Add extra flour or water
if needed. Roll the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut
and shape ornaments. Lift onto a cookie sheet with a cookie spatula. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Straightened paper clips
work great for poking eyes or adding details. Either take a toothpick and make a hole in the top of the ornament before baking so a red ribbon can be strung through or insert a
small loop of flexible wire into the top before baking. Ribbons are great for attaching to Christmas gifts!</span></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Bdq0CZlKfo/UNM94vtcRPI/AAAAAAAABS8/B3qMswWPp4I/s1600/Dough+Ornaments+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Bdq0CZlKfo/UNM94vtcRPI/AAAAAAAABS8/B3qMswWPp4I/s1600/Dough+Ornaments+01.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Bake at 325 degrees for several
hours or until hard. Cool on wire racks.</span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"> Paint with acrylic paints. When dry, spray with an
acrylic sealer or melt paraffin in a double boiler and dip the ornament in it.</span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">These are great fun... let the kids use their imagination and roll candy canes or add special touches to their Christmas creations. This will keep them busy for a couple of hours while you get some "other stuff" done!</span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Merry, Merry!</span></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"></span></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">'Tis the Season to get kids cooking,</span></span></span><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="color: purple;">
<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: red;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</span><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;"><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-55538949343219410752012-12-19T10:37:00.000-08:002012-12-19T10:38:47.000-08:00Surprise Snowballs!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div style="color: red;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9TvVzsV6mZ8/UNII0dN2ZXI/AAAAAAAABSc/KfnfYxmqmyc/s1600/snowball+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9TvVzsV6mZ8/UNII0dN2ZXI/AAAAAAAABSc/KfnfYxmqmyc/s1600/snowball+cookies.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>The kids are gonna love these... </b><br />
<br />
<b>They are so much fun to make and really fun for the kids to share with their friends... </b><br />
<br />
<b>Have them offer a Snowball cookie to their friends when they can watch the friend... wait for it... bite into it... Surprise!</b><br />
<br />
<b>Let's get started!</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Here's the ingredient list:</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>1 cup butter, softened</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>3/4 cup sugr</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>2 cups white flour</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>6-ounce bag of chocolate kisses</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>2 candy canes, crushed</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
</div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Powdered sugar for dusting</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Yield: 24 cookies </b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. </b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Cream butter and sugar with mixer until smooth (adult helper needed here, please... do not leave children alone with an electric mixer!). Slowly add flour, mixing well.</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Wrap cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. While the dough is chilling have the little elves remove the foil from the chocolate kisses (24 of them). Also, place the candy canes in a zippy plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin... the kids really like this part!</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Remove dough from the fridge and roll into 1-inch round balls... an easy way to do this is rolling the dough in palms of hands. The kids love getting their hands into it! The balls don't have to be perfect at this point.</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Insert a chocolate kiss into the center of each ball making sure it is completely covered by the dough. If necessary, do another quick roll between palms.</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet for 10 to 12 minutes (be careful not to get too brown or burn!)</b><br />
<b><i>Note: I almost always us parchment paper... it is definitely cookie baking BFF!</i> </b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Put down waxed paper under a cooling rack to catch excess powdered sugar and candy cane sprinkles. Either sift powered sugar over the top of cookies or roll cookies in the powdered sugar. Sprinkle the tops with the crushed candy cane peppermint. Gently have the kids push the cane cane sprinkles with their little thumbs into the cookies so it doesn't fall off!</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>These are great little gifts. The dollar store sometimes has clear little plastic boxes that would hold maybe 6 cookies... tie with a bright red Christmas bow and attach a candy cane!</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Are we having fun yet? Merry, Merry!</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>'Tis the Season for Getting Kids Into the Kitchen,</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b>Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</b></div>
<div style="color: red;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-41221831537277403692012-12-15T21:27:00.000-08:002012-12-15T21:28:36.632-08:00Window Pane Christmas Cookies...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b></b><br />
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yF2h-GXMywI/UM1bffLaqOI/AAAAAAAABR0/due2zKYJ_lY/s1600/Stained+Glass+Cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yF2h-GXMywI/UM1bffLaqOI/AAAAAAAABR0/due2zKYJ_lY/s1600/Stained+Glass+Cookies.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{Photo Source: Kraft}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The kids
will literally sit on the floor with the oven light on and watch these cookies
bake as the candies melt. Let the magic begin as dough is transformed into
cookies with colored window panes! The kids
are gonna love it!</b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Here's the
ingredient list: </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">18
red and green clear hard candies </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">2/3
cup butter, softened </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">2/3
cup shortening </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">1/2
cup granulated sugar </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">2
teaspoons baking powder </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">1/4
teaspoon salt </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">2
eggs </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">1
teaspoon vanilla </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">4
cups all-purpose flour </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b>Sifted
powdered sugar </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>Cookie cutters of the kids' choice Note: You'll need
a large cookie cutter and a matching smaller cookie cutter for some cool Christmas trees, bells, stars... let them use their imagination.</b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>Line cookies sheets with foil and set aside.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>Have the kids put the red and green candies in
separate small "heavy" plastic zippy bags. Crush candies, leaving
them coarse. Place each color in a small bowl.</b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>Now let's mix up the cookie dough...</b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>Let the kids measure the ingredients using
several measuring cups (just like on the cooking shows)! And, please stop the
mixer and let them dump ingredients into the mixing bowl. DO NOT keep the mixer
running while those little fingers are near, please. </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and
shortening with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds (an
adult helper is needed here, please). Add granulated sugar, baking powder, and
salt. Beat mixture until combined, scraping sides of
bowl occasionally (if the kids want to scrape, please stop the mixer). </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>Beat in
eggs and vanilla. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Stir
in any remaining flour. Divide dough in fourths. </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>Now the kids can jump in... the kids will love
trying to roll out the dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll a portion of
the dough 1/4-inch thick. Using 2-1/2- to 3-inch cutters in desired shape, cut
out dough. Place cutouts about 1 inch apart on prepared cookie sheet. Repeat
with remaining dough. </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>Using smaller, 1/2- to 3/4-inch hors
cutters, cut out two, three, or four shapes from each larger cutout.
Note: The key here is to not let the kids cut out too many shapes so the
dough won't hold together... I know, details!</b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>Fill cutout openings with crushed candy. Bake
in preheated oven about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned (have the
kids watch carefully so they don't burn). Cool completely on foil. When
completely cool to the touch carefully peel foil away from cookies. </b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000;">
<b>The kids will like this part... using a small
brush, dust the edges of cooled cookies with powdered sugar. Makes about 4
dozen. These
make great gifts and the kids will be SO proud of them!</b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b>Merry,
Merry!</b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b>'Tis the Season for Cooking with Kids,</b></div>
<div style="color: #cc0000; margin: 0in;">
<b>Jan
McCracken, Culinary Coach</b></div>
<b><span style="color: lime;">
</span></b><b style="color: lime;"></b><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-1833383040960768042012-12-14T11:10:00.000-08:002012-12-14T11:10:45.707-08:00Christmas Cookie Pizza!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LD-QgeTmkGY/TujMs1McqFI/AAAAAAAAArk/yHqunsqL1-A/s1600/Christmas+Cookie+Pizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2AFn318_J8k/UMt4zZxavcI/AAAAAAAABRg/Hndf4YSb-38/s1600/Christmas+Cookie+Pizza.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2AFn318_J8k/UMt4zZxavcI/AAAAAAAABRg/Hndf4YSb-38/s1600/Christmas+Cookie+Pizza.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #274e13;">{Photo Source: Cooking Channel}</span></b></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>This Christmas Cookie Pizza is quick, fun and festive! Merry, Merry! </b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Note: The photo is not an "exact" of this recipe... just a visual to get you going :-)</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Warning: Do not serve this right before bedtime :-) This is a very special treat and loaded with sugar but, hey.... 'Tis the season for "Cooking with Kids!" This one will bring rave reviews and wide eyes from the little chefs in the kitchen.</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>If sugar is allowed at the school Christmas party, this is another kid's culinary delight that will bring... yup, I made it with a bit of a swelling chest and a smile. On a serious note, you'll begin seeing that when your kids cook, their self-image and self-confidence builds... we'll get "serious" after the holidays... Let's get to the kitchen and create!</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Here we go... you'll need two ungreased 12-inch pizza pans. You can buy the disposable ones if you don't have them in your pantry (ALWAYS check the $ store first)!</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>1 (18-ounce) package refrigerated sugar cookie dough</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Please note: You can substitute chocolate chip or your choice of cookie dough</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>2 cups (12-ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>1 (14-ounce) can Sweetened Condensed Milk (not evaporated milk!)</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>2 cups miniature marshmallows<br />2 cups red and green M&M's</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Optional: Hot Fudge Topping </b></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>
</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>The kids will have a blast pressing out the dough onto the pizza pans!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Bake from 10 minutes or until just a light golden brown (will depend on your oven). Remove from oven and set aside.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Have the kids measure the remaining ingredients and dump it into a medium-sized saucepan. The adult helper will melt the chips with the condensed milk, stirring constantly. When melted, pour over the baked cookie pizza crusts.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Have the kids sprinkle the mini-marshmallows and the M&M's evenly over the crust.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Return to oven and bake 3 or 4 more minutes until the marshmallows puff up and are just lightly toasted (watch the marshmallows closely as you know, they just keep cooking when you take them out of the oven). If you need more sugar, heat some hot fudge topping in the microwave and drizzle over the pizza at serving time... and, a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of ice cream melting over all would make it the biggest "sugar delight" allowed for a very long time :-) !</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-srkHIw5zofw/TujPskRoJXI/AAAAAAAAArs/bHi7rKhIDzg/s1600/Christmas+Pizza+Slices+USE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Let cool and cut into "pizza wedges" for serving. Tah Dah... 'Tis the Season to get Kids Cooking!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Happy Holiday Cooking,</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</b></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-27225311743067049262012-12-13T12:09:00.000-08:002012-12-13T12:13:01.142-08:00Santa Tip... 'Tis the Season to Get Kids Cooking!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Santa Tip!</b></span></span></td></tr>
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<b>Let the kids do as much as possible! Baking and Christmas cooking is "hands-on fun!" The adult helper needs to be at the helm with anything electric... like the mixer... however, let the kids measure everything out and dump it in the mixing bowl. Stop the mixer and scrap the sides... this is a good time to taste the dough... one of my favorite things!</b></div>
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<b>Even the youngest kids can help stir up batter and do a bit of measuring and they will be thrilled!</b></div>
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<b>Some kids are great "egg breakers" and after they've broken the eggs in a small bowl, do the old-fashioned thing of handing them a salad fork and whipping them up a bit... .is it really necessary to the recipe? Maybe not... but it sure makes them feel important and a real part of the process... and that's what counts!</b></div>
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<b>This is a great time to be able to show kids the "right way" in the kitchen... you'll find them SO eager to learn. Remember, it doesn't have to be perfect!</b></div>
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<b>Let them stir and roll out dough, shape and press dough flat with a glass or a fork... bring out the cookie cutters... and then the frosting and decorating is the icing on the cake (pun intended)!</b></div>
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<b>'Tis the season to get kids cooking! Merry, Merry!</b></div>
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<b>Happy Holiday Cooking with Kids,</b></div>
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</span></b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-32405661285708155432012-12-12T12:02:00.000-08:002012-12-12T12:02:00.367-08:00Very Merry Red Velvet Whoopie Pies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QqncWF9t07M/UMjiaKfH6sI/AAAAAAAABQU/UeCOtbTdalg/s1600/Red+Velvet+Whoopie+Pies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QqncWF9t07M/UMjiaKfH6sI/AAAAAAAABQU/UeCOtbTdalg/s1600/Red+Velvet+Whoopie+Pies.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>Red velvet cake is one of my long time favorites. I have made them from scratch for years! But there's been an amazing addition to boxed cakes... Yep, there is now red velvet cake mix and it's delish and very moist! </b></div>
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<b>And... Whoopie Pies are one of the hottest new things for a sweet tooth! Here's, quick, easy, festive and yummy.</b></div>
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<b>All you need is a whoopie pie pan... Hint: Use your 40% off or 50% off coupon at Michael's and get a great Wilton whoopie pan that you'll use over and over!</b></div>
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<b>Pick up a Red Velvet cake mix (I know Wally World carries them)... you'll need oil and eggs to make the batter. And get some peppermint ice cream and some candy canes for garnish. </b></div>
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<b>Follow the directions on the cake mix... please let the kids get out all the "stuff" and do the measuring and dumping of ingredients. And the adult helper should operate the electric mixer as in ALWAYS!</b></div>
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<b>Bake as directed in the whoopie pan at the correct oven temperature. Do not over bake! Remove from oven and cool on cooling rack.</b></div>
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<b>While the whoopie pies are cooling, place 3 or 4 candy canes and place them in a heavy duty zippy bag. Let the kids pound them with a small rolling pin or rubber mallet (they really love this part)!</b></div>
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<b>Let ice cream sit on counter for at least 5 minutes to begin to soften so it will spread easily. Spread ice cream on one side of a whoopie pie and then top with the second one. Put crushed candy canes on waxed paper and roll the whoopie pies in the crushed candy cane peppermint on the ice cream for a very festive touch!</b></div>
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<b>Either wrap in waxed paper or put in individual zippy bags until the kids devour them! Enjoy!</b></div>
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<b>Merry, Merry!</b></div>
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<b>Happy Cooking with Kids,</b></div>
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<b>Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</b></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-60465371792620756202012-12-08T08:46:00.000-08:002012-12-08T08:46:44.972-08:00Finger Painted Christmas Wreath Cookies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b> {Photo Source: Betty Crocker}</b></div>
<b>Finger paint with frosting... it doesn't get much more fun than this!</b></div>
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<b>If you have a favorite sugar cookie recipe and want to go to the trouble of preparing it, then please do... If not, use a roll of refrigerated sugar cookie dough.</b></div>
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<b>Make sure the cookie dough is very firm... pop it in the freezer for about 20 minutes before beginning to work with it. Be sure to check as you don't want it frozen just really cold!</b></div>
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<b>Place dough on waxed paper and slice in rounds. Use a small cookie cutter (actually a bottle top will do) and cut out the middle of the wreath. Have the kids cut this center of dough in half with a plastic knife and place the 2 halves at the bottom of each wreath. Shape the halves slightly forming what will look like a bow on the wreath.</b></div>
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<b>Bake according to your own recipe or according to directions on the cookie dough package. Don't overbake.... let the cookies get golden and just begin to brown!</b></div>
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<b>Remove immediately from the cookie sheet to a wire rack for cooling (If you leave them on the cookie sheet, they will continue to brown). Cool for about 30 minutes until completely cool. </b></div>
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<b>While the cookies are cooling, stir up the "finger-paint icing." </b></div>
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<b>Here's what you'll need:</b></div>
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<b>1 tub of Vanilla (white, white) Rich and Creamy frosting</b></div>
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<b>1/4 teaspoon green food coloring</b></div>
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<b>1/4 teaspoon red food coloring</b></div>
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<b>1/4 cup red hots</b></div>
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<b>Reserve 1/2 cup of the frosting (just white) in a small microwavable bowl and set aside. Let the kids spread the remaining white frosting on the cookies.</b></div>
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<b>Spoon 1/4 cup of the reserved frosting into another small microwavable bowl. Microwave each bowl of frosting uncovered on High for only about 5 seconds until just warm. Stir until frosting can be poured. Stir in the green food coloring into one bowl and the red into the other bowl.</b></div>
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<b>Now for the fun! Let the kids use their fingers to create the wreaths by dipping one finger into the warm freen froting and lightly pressing onto the wreath part of the cookie. They can slightly swirl it so it looks like the greenery on a wreath.</b></div>
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<b>Note: The color will appear watercolor-like and a bit transparent.</b></div>
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<b>Create a red bow by dipping another fingertip into the warm red frosting and lightly coating the bow part of the wreath cookies. </b></div>
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<b>Note: A "light touch" is the secret to making these cookies really special!</b></div>
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<b>If the frosting gets too stiff in working with it, simply pop it back into the microwave and re-heat. </b></div>
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<b>Press at least 4 red hots onto the wreath to look like red berries on the wreath.</b></div>
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<b>The kids will love these and they taste great too! </b></div>
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<b>Merry, Merry! </b></div>
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<b>'Tis the Season to Get Kids Cooking,</b></div>
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Jan McCracken, Culinary Coach</span></b><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6563307625398225256.post-11472560701572910712012-12-04T12:31:00.001-08:002012-12-04T12:31:06.257-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/christmas-cookie-pops/91d48dd5-904b-4aee-b11c-64e71a096acd?sc=Kids%27%20Cookie%20Recipes&term=Kids%20Cookie&itemId=f30e758f-d670-486a-95fb-7259577b50bf" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-innKm37D7ns/UL5dQTZzjvI/AAAAAAAABMI/nWCGKXYmGno/s320/Christmas+Tree+cookie+pops.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0