As the temperature keeps dropping, thoughts of apples and pumpkins overtake my little cooking mind. I seek out recipe that has either of these two quintessential fall treats. These little muffins started out as a simple pumpkin muffin, but I have made several versions including this one with a cream cheese layer. You could also adapt it by adding nuts, dried fruits or a crumb topping for a little variety. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins - adapted from Cooking Light Ingredients Cake layer 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour1 cup granulated sugar1 tablespoon baking powder1 teaspoon baking soda1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/2 tsp nutmeg1/2 teaspoon salt1 cup canned pumpkin3/4 cup light sour cream1/3 cup 2% milk1/4 cup vegetable oil1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 … [Read more...]
Light Vegetable Pasta Salad Recipe
Photo by Stephanie Yes, it is September and pasta salad is usually a summer cookout staple. In most of the country, it is still warm enough to need a simple pasta dish for football tailgates and a late summer get together. This pasta salad was born out of my love of pasta but my distaste of heavy creamy pasta salads. A light balsamic vinaigrette replaces the normal mayonnaise based dressing. Colorful Veggies And Interesting Pasta Using an interesting pasta and colorful veggies can really make this dish pop, so consider using a tri color rotini or some of the new mini pastas out there. The mini penne worked well, but I typically use a whole wheat pasta for added nutrition. Toss with a sprinkling of feta throughout for an extra burst of flavor. To make a complete meal instead of … [Read more...]
Skillet Baked Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Photo by Shellfish Who can resist a giant chocolate chip cookie? If your not enticed yet you will be once you see the sweet, soft center of milk and semisweet chocolate chips. For those of you who don't fear the ultimate indulgence, top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and homemade caramel sauce or chocolate sauce. My family has been serving these slices of heaven for years and apparently so has Martha Stewart's. Skillet Baked Chocolate Chip Cookies Makes 8 servings 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup sugar 3/4 cup packed light-brown sugar 1 large egg 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups (about 9 ounces) mixed milk- and semisweet chocolate chips 2 pints vanilla ice cream Caramel … [Read more...]
