I love restaurant desserts. But our budget doesn’t always allow for them, and sometimes I just want to put on sweatpants and relax with my family instead of sitting in an uncomfortable chair in a loud restaurant (especially after I’ve just eaten a huge restaurant meal). So these mini Chocolate Ugly Cakes are perfect – they taste like we’re out, but really we’re at home with our own furniture and our own music and people we like (no tips required). Read More»
Posts Categorized: Uncategorized
Cinnamon Bread
My friend and colleague, Sara Gronholz, has been a guest blogger numerous times. She is truly a gourmet cook. I admire her ability to be inspired by nearly everything she tries, anywhere, and then “Tastefully Simplize” it. Her most recent concoction was for an absolutely delicious Cinnamon Bread. Read More»
Wahoo! Chili
Since this chili only takes half an hour to prepare and I always have the ingredients on hand (seriously – there are only four ingredients plus water), it’s perfect for a last-minute supper on a cold day Read More»
Savory Hamburger Stew
A couple weeks ago I was going all “Home-Ecky Becky” and planned (planned!) to make a luscious beef stew using our wonderful Tender Pot Roast Sauce … but someone (who shall remain nameless) (OK it was me) forgot to take the pot roast out of the freezer. Read More»
Bountiful Beer Bread Bowl with Spinach & Herb Dip

Bountiful Beer Bread Bowl with Spinach & Herb Dip
Sometimes I forget about Spinach & Herb Dip Mix. Sure, I always have a bottle around and I add a few shakes whenever I make something “herb-y.” And it’s great at that. But like any great supporting actor, it deserves the spotlight. Read More»
Bold Buffalo Pretzels
There’s nothing like relaxing in front of the TV on a cold winter’s day with a big bowl of salty snacks on your lap. Read More»
Corn, Black Bean Layered Dip
Everyone I know loves taco dip. It’s always the first to go at family gatherings, and when someone brings it to work there’s always a gathering around the dip. Read More»
Bob’s Cranberry Almond Cake
I tried this recipe earlier this fall for a potluck at work and got rave reviews. This recipe is soooooo easy, soooooo delicious and soooooo festive, it’s perfect for the holidays (and other days). And it’s so simple. Read More»
Cheesy Blossoms
‘Tis the season … for appetizers (and this one is delicious)! At our house we always have the same few appetizers during the holidays, and I am on a mission to broaden our horizons when it comes to the meal before the meal. At a recent family gathering I tried out this one, and everyone raved about it. They were also great to make ahead of time and pop in the oven shortly before I was ready to serve. Read More»
Creamy Crab Cheese Ball Wreath

Creamy Crab Cheese Ball Wreath
I’ve discovered that as I “mature” my time in the kitchen is much more about the art and enjoyment I can share with family and friends. So as I was creating my masterpiece and my son said, “Mom, as far as comparing your stuff to Dad’s … yours is more decorative and beautiful. It wins the show!” Read More»
English Toffee Truffles
With the holidays in full swing, it’s nice to have desserts that can please everyone’s palate. This recipe has several variations, which is great for entertaining. You could make up a few batches and create a dessert bar where your guests can pick which one (or ones) they would like to have. However, if your guests are anything like me … they will try them all! Read More»
Wahoo! Sweet Potato Fries
The 3 ingredient (!!!) recipe that I have for you today is so simple and so sensational that I’m going to get right to it. It’s an adaptation of Stephanie Lathrop’s Wahoo! Baked Sweet Potato Fries! Gracious, these are good. Read More»




















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