A Little Confession...

As I'm laying in bed, I'm starting to realize something. A little shocking and surprising to me. I've developed a bit of an addiction. To Knott's cookies...



It doesn't matter the flavor. Just that they are Knott's. When I was in high school, I used to buy these. A few times a week. From the vending machines. It was definitely a treat. One that I looked forward to. All the time! There was just something about that buttery cookie. And that sweet jam. Makes a girl smile, just thinking about it.

Well, the other day, I was super busy. And had no time to eat. It was 3PM, and I hadn't had a thing to eat! When I ran to the gas station, and then had to run in to get a receipt, I took a quick look around. I was starving! So I picked up a lemonade and some nuts. Then I turned around, to see these cookies staring at me!

I couldn't help myself. I bought 5 bags. I'm not proud to say this, but I ate all 5 bags, within days! Days I tell you! Then I had to make a quick run to Costco. And I just thought, "They have to have my cookies here." After loading up on fruit, veggies, and paper goods...I headed to the snacks. And found my favorite cookies!

That leads us to tonight. For about 2 weeks now, I've gone to bed with a book...and some cookies. Yes, I know! But I can't help myself. I've added another 1/2 mile to my daily run. And I skip my mid-morning snack. Just for this sweet treat!

My Guy, thinks I'm hilarious! But I really can't help myself. And I've promised myself, after I finish this box...I will not buy anymore. Because I can't control myself. Maybe in 6 months...I'll buy myself some more. But no sooner! Because honestly, I could gain 100 lbs very easily!!! ♥

Very Patriotic

A little exhausted here. But a HUGE Congrats to Dawn and Alejandro!!! My Guy and I, are on our way to "Wine Country." To spend a little time together. Oh ya, My Mr. has to work first. This afternoon. Then we'll spend the night, enjoying the beauty of the area. Before we head back to the Southwest. To hangout with Miss Lilah. And prepare for one more wedding.

In the meantime, I'm trying to stay awake. Because I feel guilty sleeping. You know, since My Guy is working from the airplane. And has an entire work day ahead. Even though we ONLY got 2 hours of sleep. A sign of a good wedding! :) So to keep myself occupied, I thought I'd put together some 4th of July ideas. Since we're throwing a big 'ol BBQ for our friends and family. I can't wait to get to the sandy beaches of Florida!!!

First up, is decor. I'm a sucker for holiday decorations! I generally start at the Dollar Tree. Then build from there. In the last 11 years, you'd be so surprised by the collection I've grown. Of nice holiday things, after the holiday. All on clearance. Not just Dollar Tree finds. I'm talking upscale stuff, for a few dollars!!!



And I like handmade. Fun paper decorations and labels. Things that scream "Holiday Fun!" Like these!



Or this...totally a Dollar Tree spread. But so fun! This is something I used to do all the time. And little by little, I've added other staples. Like nice tablecloths. Quality flags and bows. Fun colored glass and platters. But this is a nice place to start. :)



How about some food? You can't forget the food! It's the most IMPORTANT part of the deal! Look for seasonal food. American classics. And anything in red, white, or blue!!!



These fun and easy cookies, are a MUST! As in, I MUST bake these!!! Yum, just looking at this picture, makes me hungry. And smile!



Maybe even some Cake Balls! You can't go wrong with Cake Balls. They are super fun! And even easier to make!!! The possibilities are endless. :)

I'm so excited about the 4th of July!!! I can't wait to get cooking, and baking. I really can't wait to decorate. And of course, celebrate with our loved ones! Do you have any Patriotic Ideas? I'd LOVE to hear about them! I've been on Pinterest for a while. Collecting all these ideas. But I could always use more!!! ♥

Mandarin Orange Cake

The last couple of weeks, have just been crazy! My family has needed me. My friends have needed me. This amazing man has needed me. And I just can't be in all these places, at the same time. Let me just tell you, I've been feeling incredibly guilty!

To make up to my favorite guy, I wanted to make him an AMAZING meal. Have us a little celebration! So I planned on all his favorites. But when it came to dessert, I wanted to try something new. So I took to Google. And when I Googled oranges, this guy's favorite, I was sent to Gooseberry Patch! And this week's Recipe of the Week! Mandarin Orange Cake. Yum! Even I was intrigued. :)



Mandarin Orange Cake

18-1/2 oz. pkg. white cake mix
11-oz. can mandarin oranges, drained and juice reserved
3 egg whites
1/2 c. oil
2 8-oz. cans crushed pineapple
3-1/2 oz. pkg. instant vanilla pudding mix
8-oz. container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 c. sweetened flaked coconut, divided

Combine cake mix, reserved juice, egg whites and oil. Blend with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes, until creamy. Fold in oranges; pour into a greased and floured 13"x9" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 35 minutes, until a toothpick in the center comes out clean. Place pan on a wire rack to cool completely. Pour pineapple and its juice into a medium bowl; stir in pudding mix. Fold in whipped topping and 1/2 cup coconut. Mix well; chill while cake is cooling. Spread over top and sides; sprinkle with remaining coconut. Serve immediately or keep refrigerated. Serves 12.



Do you see that last line? Serves 12. Um, it served 2!!! And I'm not lying. It was so good, that on Monday night, we gobbled the entire thing down! And it was delicious. This is a light cake. Not as in calories. But as in "light and fresh." Perfect for Summer! Perfect for My Guy. Perfect for all these Summer "Get Togethers." I can see this little cake, making an appearance around our home, many times! I already can't wait, to bake a second one. ♥

Fun Crochet Food!!!

My cousin asked me, almost 3 years ago, to be his daughter's Godmother. It was a very special day! My Goddaughters really do mean the world to me. And I see being a Godmother, as a blessing.

Unfortunately, she happens to be my one Goddaughter, who I see the least. It makes me so sad! But I make sure, to call her weekly. And send her little notes, and surprises every other week. I think it's so important to stay close. And to let her know, that I'm here for her. After all, she's ONLY 4 years old!

Well, for Christmas I bought her a little Kitchenette. And it hasn't quite made it to her. So I've been slowly crocheting her some fun food. And I hit the jackpot last night! I found this AMAZING blog. With so many cute patterns!



First up, some breakfast. How cute is this? A friend egg, toast, and bacon. I'm sure, this will be a hit!



How about some milk and cookies? On the blog, they're labeled as "Santa's cookies." I just think they're cute! I'll probably make the cups a more neutral color. Not so Christmas-y.



Would you like a hotdog? I just adore this pattern! Because I've NEVER seen anything like it. But I'm going to have to add some relish. Because that's my favorite part of eating a hotdog! :)



Or maybe a hamburger is more your style. The lettuce just cracks me up! But I think this will be fun to recreate!



And you can't forget the shake and fries! I adore these curly fries!!! I've never seen a pattern like that. The twist on the shake is also ADORABLE!!!



Or maybe you would like a movie snack. Popcorn and a pretzel. How fun is this? I LOVE the shape of the popcorn. :)



And crochet food, just wouldn't be complete without a few s'mores! How fun is this! S'mores just happen to be a favorite of mine. :)

I'm hoping to crochet quickly. I would like to get a nice set done. Before I see my Goddaughter. I think these will be a nice addition, to her Kitchenette. Who knows, I might even sew up an apron and oven mitts! ♥

Here, There, and Grapes

I still can't believe it's June! Where in the heck, is time going? I just feel like, Spring flew by! Before we know it, it will be Fall. Honestly, I'll be happy to see Fall. I'm not a fan of the crazy heat! Chalk that up to growing up in the desert!

In other news, my friends are getting married tomorrow. I'm still trying to convince Louisa to start a blog. :) And J and I, are baptizing Lilah, Matilda, and Eloise on Sunday! Crazy weekend ahead. But I'm sad to be leaving this guy. Even if it's for a few short days. This is one of those times, when I wish he had a simpler job. So he could come with me, to these little things...

Well, with that being said, Little K and her grandma sent me this picture. Just a few days ago. And we made these treats. Earlier this week. They were gone in no time! Then this guy and I, made them again. Last night. And ate them all up! So addicting!!!



And what are they, you ask? Grapes on a toothpick. Dipped in carmel. And lightly coated in peanuts. Delish! Sorta reminds me of carmel apples. Yum! A favorite of mine. And if you use those little carmel candies, a treat that is ready in minutes! You must try these. :) Today! ♥

Fun Night Ahead

We had a long night last night. But I can't complain. It was a fun night of performing, with some of my best friends. With this guy, hanging out with his friends. It's so nice, when our 2 worlds collide like this. When all of our friends are together, having a great time!

But this week, has been leading up to the fun tonight. Not only all of our friends, but this guy's family, are preparing for a fun night. And I'm super excited!!! There are few weeks, like this for us. When we're surrounded by the people we love. Traveling so much for work, you learn to really appreciate nights like this. :)

Like every week, I'm baking some fun treats for this guy, and his co-workers. The twist, I got a little e-mail this week. From one of the biggest, toughest, guy's I know!!! Asking if I'd make these cookies. In some very specific colors. Well buddy, these are for you!!!



I also managed to bake up a few treats, for the rest of us. While we enjoy the evening. My Guy's family, has decided they'd cook this week. I can't wait! Because I know, it will be so yummy!!! I've been looking forward to these 2 weeks, for months!!! And I'm so happy, that we have so many amazing people surrounding us, and showering us with love!!! ♥

Be Mine Cherry Brownies

Yesterday was Valentine's Day! And around here, we enjoyed a nice and quiet holiday. Alone. It was heaven! Something we don't get to do often. But we cherished every single moment!

I did lots of cooking for My Guy. Something that I absolutely LOVE to do! And he spoiled me with lots of nice gifts. Which was incredibly sweet,and unexpected! But back to that cooking. Earlier this week, I had been looking for some good dessert recipes. My Guy likes him some dessert! And I baked for almost 2 days. :) One of the recipes that I used, was this week's Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week.



Be Mine Cherry Brownies

18.3-oz. pkg. fudge brownie mix
3 1-oz. sqs. white baking chocolate
1/3 c. whipping cream
1 c. cream cheese frosting
1/4 c. maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
1-1/2 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 c. butter
Garnish: candy sprinkles

Prepare brownie mix according to package instructions. Line a 13"x9" baking pan with aluminum foil, leaving several inches on sides for handles. Spray bottom of foil with non-stick vegetable spray; spread batter into pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 24 to 26 minutes; let cool. Lift brownies from pan; remove foil. Use a 3-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut brownies. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white baking chocolate and whipping cream for one to 2 minutes, stirring until chocolate is melted; refrigerate 30 minutes. Stir frosting and cherries into chilled chocolate mixture; spread over brownies. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and butter for one to 2 minutes, stirring until smooth. Transfer to a plastic zipping bag, snip off a tip and drizzle over brownies. Garnish with sprinkles. Makes 14.


So I can't lie! I got this cookbook as a gift. From K. She knows that I collect cookbooks. And that Gooseberry Patch is my favorite! This is one, that I've had on my list, for a little while. K actually gave it to me, right before we left. And it has been such a treat to have! I've already made 3 different desserts!

The funny thing is, I had flagged this recipe. In the cookbook. It was one of my favorites. But when I saw it this week, as the Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week, I knew that I just had to make it! Even if we, had to make a midnight run to the grocery store. Luckily, not on Valentine's Day. I realized I was missing 2 ingredients, 2 days before. :)

My Guy also told me, that he enjoyed this little treat. Though we both agreed, one is more than enough. These brownies are pretty sweet. But a nice change. I'm pretty sure that I can find a friend, or two, that would like to finish off our little stash. After all, we should share! I'm telling you, there is nothing like chocolate and cherries. And these were well worth, the midnight run to the grocery store! ♥

Pati's Mexican Table

I want to share something with you. Something that has made me so happy! I don't know where I've been. But I've missed this amazing mujer...and her show! Have you ever heard about Pati? And Pati's Mexican Table?

Well, just a few months ago, I was sick, and in bed. Not feeling well. It was a cold and rainy day. Usually, the type of days that I enjoy most. But not that day. I was miserably sick. And this man, was trying to work.

Most of the day I slept. Wishing that I was home. But coming to grips, that we were on the road. And I was sick. I napped on and off, all day, I tried to make myself comfortable. I tried to find something, that would make me a little happy.

I turned on the TV, and put it on PBS. Nothing else is really interesting on a Saturday afternoon. Because, well most people are out doing something. Not me! I've come to realize, some of the best PBS shows, come out on Saturday afternoon.

One of the many garden shows was on. Which, I don't remember. Not at all! But I do remember this. I fell asleep. Then I heard this very calming voice. With a broken accent. It reminded me of someone. I couldn't place it at the time.

That voice, it woke me up. And I watched. In amazement. The food looked delish! The show had great music, Pati had a calming voice, the food looked great, the dishes were fun, and Pati had some great stories to tell! And guess what, Pati is a true Mexican cook! Cooking authentic and traditional food. Oh, I was in heaven! Half alive, but it was bliss!



I took a little time to get better. Later that week, I went to Pati's website. And I explored PBS. Looking for the days and times, of Pati's show. Once I found our local station, I put the day and time into our TiVo. I was not going to miss another episode!

Since then, I've managed to watch all of the episodes. I've tried countless recipes. And read that, Pati will be releasing a cookbook later this year! Oh, I just can't wait! On top of all of this, Pati really does interact with you, on her website.

If you enjoy Mexican cooking, or are interested, in learning how to cook authentic Mexican food, you have to watch Pati's Mexican Table. You have to! This is such a great show. One that I hope, PBS keeps on air, for a long time. Pati is such a great cook. And really makes you want to try every single recipe! ♥

Maple Syrup Shortbread

One of my favorite things about the holidays, is baking. I just love it! And I LOVE to try new recipes. Yum! That's probably why I'm so excited about this week's Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week. A yummy shortbread cookie! By the way, this cookbook is AMAZING!



Maple Syrup Shortbread

1/2 c. plus 1 T. butter, softened and divided
1/4 c. sugar
1 c. all-purpose flour
3/4 c. brown sugar, packed
1/2 c. maple syrup
1 egg
1 t. vanilla extract
Optional: 1/2 c. chopped walnuts


Blend 1/2 cup butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add flour a little at a time, mixing continually; blend well. Pat mixture into a lightly greased 8"x8" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees until light golden, about 25 minutes; remove from oven and set aside. Stir together brown sugar, syrup and remaining butter. Add egg and vanilla; mix until smooth. Pour evenly over baked shortbread; sprinkle with walnuts. Return to oven; bake at 350 degrees until topping sets, about 20 minutes. Let cool; cut into 1-1/2"x1-1/2" squares. Store in an airtight container. Makes about 1-1/2 dozen.



Yum! I've baked 2 batches of these already. And they are so delish! I'm also making a few of the other recipes in this cookbook. Do you have any favorite cookie recipes that I should know about? I'd love to try some of your favorite recipes. ♥

Peaches & Cream Cheesecake

Our family is having a Family Reunion tomorrow. So in my "down time" this week, I've been working on some projects. The perfect gifts, for some of the elder members of the family. And a few good recipes. Since we were all asked, to bring our favorite dishes. And well, I'm a dessert gal. So I've been trying out some new and yummy desserts. This one in particular, just fit the bill. On so many sides! Thank goodness for Gooseberry Patch and their free Recipe of the Week!


Peaches & Cream Cheesecake

3/4 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 t. salt
1/2 c. milk
1 egg
1 t. baking powder
3.4-oz. pkg. instant vanilla pudding mix
3 T. butter
15-oz. can sliced peaches, juice reserved
8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/2 c. plus 1 T. sugar, divided
1 t. cinnamon

Blend together flour, salt, milk, egg, baking powder, pudding mix and butter; beat for 2 minutes. Pour into a greased 9" round pan; arrange peaches on top. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, 3 tablespoons of reserved juice and 1/2 cup sugar; beat for 2 minutes. Spoon over peaches. Combine remaining sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 35 minutes. Serves


Yes, I made 4 of these, on Thursday. Because my friends all go to mass on Tuesday and Thursday nights. Afterward, we head to someone's house, and have dinner. These beauties were gone in minutes! They were that good. And now, I'm getting ready to make 6 for tomorrow. Happy Saturday! ♥

Frozen Fruit Squares

Now that it's hot, all I want to eat, is frozen goodies. We're talking ice cream, frozen fruit, anything that's nice and cold. Yummy! But sometimes I just get bored with the same things. And sometimes, I just want to make something yummy at home. So I was so happy to find this week's Free Recipe from Gooseberry Patch.


Frozen Fruit Squares

8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 c. sugar
1-1/2 c. mayonnaise
1 c. chopped pecans
2 bananas, sliced
3 c. frozen whipped topping, thawed
2 8-oz. cans crushed pineapple, drained
2 10-oz. pkgs. frozen strawberries, thawed and drained
12-oz. pkg. mini marshmallows
1 c. grapes, halved

Blend cream cheese, sugar and mayonnaise together; fold in remaining ingredients. Spread in an ungreased 13"x9" freezer-safe pan; cover with aluminum foil and freeze. Remove from freezer and allow to soften before cutting into squares. Makes 18 servings.


Yum! These were delicious. Probably not to kind to the waistline. But they were yummy! It's fun to try out new recipes. Especially during the summer. It just seems to make everything super yummy! ♥

Pineapple Goodie Bars

If you haven't noticed, I'm a big fan of sweets. I try to stay away from them. But I'm also a HUGE fan of baking! But it all works out. I try a new recipe out. Taste it, love it, wish I could have more. And then I send the rest with this guy, to his work. Yup, it works out great! So this week's Free Recipe of the Week from Gooseberry Patch, was definitely a hit. I'd recommend it!


Pineapple Goodie Bars

18-oz. tube refrigerated sugar cookie dough
1 c. chopped pecans
1/2 c. candied pineapple, chopped
1/2 c. butterscotch chips
1/2 c. sweetened dried cranberries
1/2 c. sweetened flaked coconut

Place cookie dough in a bowl; stir until softened. Add remaining ingredients except coconut; mix well. Pat mixture evenly into a 13"x9" greased baking pan. Sprinkle coconut over top and press lightly. Bake at 325 degrees for 20 minutes. Cool; cut into bars. Makes 2 dozen.


Yum! The perfect dessert for summer. If only I'd eat one bar. But when can you ever have one of anything sweet? That's why I send almost the entire pan, with this guy. I figure he needs the calories more than me. But they are delish! ♥

Red Velvet Christmas Cookies

One thing that you should know is, I LOVE red velvet cupcakes. LOVE THEM!!! Just thinking about them, makes me want to go bake a batch. Oh. My. Goodness!

This week's Gooseberry Patch Free Recipe of the Week, just hit all the bells and whistles for me! Red Velvet Christmas Cookies! I'm sure that the people at Gooseberry Patch, know that I'm in the middle of my Christmas baking. And wanted me to add these to the mix. But oh my goodness! I might gain 20 lbs this year. Because of this recipe. :)



Red Velvet Christmas Cookies

18-1/2 oz. pkg. red velvet cake mix
1/2 c. oil
2 T. water
2 eggs
12-oz. pkg. white chocolate chips

Combine all ingredients; mix well. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto baking sheets sprayed with non-stick vegetable spray. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool slightly before removing from baking sheets. Makes 3 dozen.



Earlier this week, I baked these cookies. 3 batches of them! And guess what? In the matter of hours, they were history!!! And in case you were wondering, I wasn't the only one, that ate them. All my friends were so excited about these cookies. :)

It probably doesn't hurt, that most of my friends are from the "South." And red velvet is a staple there. But we ate. And ate. And ate some more! It's a good thing that we're performing this week. For 2 reasons. 1 can't bake while we're out here. And 2, I burned off a lot of calories!

But honestly, this is going to be a "staple recipe" for me. From now on! If I know you in "Real Life," you can bet your pants, that I'll be adding these, to your Christmas baskets. :) Today is Saturday. And boy, I can't wait for next week to come. When we head home. And I can bake up a few more batches! Oh, and I just might NEED this cookbook too! ♥

Chocolate Cake Heaven!

In case you don't know it, I LOVE chocolate. Any kind. Any way. Just thinking about it, makes my mouth water. Well, I'm having a killer craving right now. For this chocolate cake!

I was doing a google search. For what? I don't even remember. But I saw this cake. And clicked on the link. And found this blog post, with this cake! You know, it's the middle of the night here. And if I wasn't already in my pjs, I'd go to the store for the ingredients. No lie!

So a spoonful or 2 of Nutella will have to do for tonight. But you can bet your life on it, I'm going to be making this cake. Very soon! ♥

Raspberry Chocolate Cake

I was sitting here trying to pass some time. To be honest, I was so bored! My Guy is working. And he asked me to come with him. My bestie is here too. But somehow, I'm sitting here alone. My pregnant bestie is sleeping. And My Guy is working. So I'm left to entertain myself.

Hello Google. I started a search for a chocolate cake. And look what I found. I'm not sure why the pictures are so small. But look at this cake!



Chocolate and raspberry bliss! OMG it looks amazing! Um, I started looking through this place. And I found what I needed to recreate this amazing cake! There is no recipe. I didn't find one. Mostly because the page that these pictures were on, isn't there anymore. I just made a chocolate cake, with chocolate icing. And topped it with beautiful raspberries.



Honestly, look at how amazing this looks! Um, I don't have my camera either. But my cake looks pretty amazing too! Who doesn't like chocolate and raspberries?



When My Guy finished working, he was greeted with this lovely cake. And he was very happy! My pregnant bestie, she enjoyed it too! See what happens when I'm bored. I find inspiration on Google. ♥

Slice of Sunshine Cake

So I have another Free Recipe from Gooseberry Patch. It sounds delicious! And very quick and east. And light. Perfect for Spring and Summer!

Slice of Sunshine Cake

Submitted by: Michelle Campen from Peoria, Illinois

18-1/2 oz. pkg. yellow cake mix
1/4 c. applesauce
4 eggs, beaten
11-oz. can mandarin oranges
8-oz. container frozen whipped topping, thawed
3.4-oz. pkg. instant vanilla pudding mix
15-1/2 oz. can crushed pineapple

Combine first 4 ingredients together; mix well. Pour batter into a lightly greased 13"x9" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center removes clean; set aside to cool completely. Blend remaining ingredients together; spread over cake. Keep refrigerated. Serves 16.

I really can't wait to try this cake! All the fruit, it just sounds like a delicious dessert. So quick and easy. Perfect for a picnic or a casual dinner. Yum! ♥

Coconut Strawberry Cake

"A resplendent crown of fresh, juicy red strawberries tops this scrumptious homemade coconut cake with fluffy white frosting."

When I read that, I knew that I just had to make this cake. Look at this picture. How can you not want to eat a piece of this cake?

Coconut Strawberry Cake

For Cake:

Nonstick cooking spray
All-purpose flour for dusting
2 cups sifted cake flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs, separated*
1 cup "lite" coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract

For Icing:

1 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup water
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
3 large egg whites
1 teaspoon coconut extract

For Cake Assembly:

1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
1/2 cup strawberry preserves
4 cups (about 1 1/4 pounds) whole stemmed California strawberries


To Make Cake:

1. Place oven rack in bottom third of oven; heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray two 8-inch cake pans with nonstick cooking spray. Line bottom of each pan with a circle of parchment paper, spray the paper and dust inside of each pan with all-purpose flour, tapping out excess.

2. Sift together cake flour, baking powder and salt; set aside.

3. In bowl of electric mixer with paddle attachment, cream butter at medium speed until soft and light. Add sugar and continue to mix about 5 minutes or until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks one at a time, beating after each addition until completely mixed.

4. On low speed, alternately add flour mixture in 3 additions and coconut milk in 2 additions, beginning and ending with flour mixture.

5. Add extract and beat at low speed until completely mixed.

6. In clean bowl with whisk attachment, beat egg whites at high speed to soft peaks. Gently fold one third of the egg whites into the batter; fold in remaining egg whites gently but thoroughly.

7. Divide batter between prepared cake pans and bake about 35 minutes or until cake springs back when touched and toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Cool on rack 5 minutes; run a small knife around edge of each pan and carefully invert cake onto rack. Remove pan and cool cake completely; remove paper before assembling cake.

8. To make icing: In small saucepan combine sugar, water and cream of tartar. Bring to a boil, covered, over medium heat; do not stir. When sugar is completely dissolved, uncover and boil 5 minutes longer.

9. In bowl of electric mixer with whisk attachment, beat egg whites at high speed to soft peaks. Continue to beat while slowly pouring hot syrup onto egg whites; add extract and beat until cool.

To Assemble Cake:

1. Spread 1/4 cup of the preserves on top of 1 cake layer.

2. Thinly slice 2 cups of the strawberries and arrange in 1 layer on top of preserves.

3. Spread remaining 1/4 cup preserves on bottom of second cake layer and invert onto first layer.

4. Spread icing on top and sides of assembled layers; pat coconut onto sides of cake.

5. Arrange remaining strawberries on top of cake, stem side down.
Makes 8 to 10 servings.


I just wish I would have found this recipe sooner. It would have been the perfect cake for my mom! But doesn't it look yummy? I'm definitely going to be baking this soon. I just need to go shopping for the ingredients. Oh, I'm going to dream about this cake tonight! ♥

Strawberry Yogurt Cones

Remember how I told you that I LOVE strawberries? I just can't get enough. Having our own strawberry plants doesn't help either. It just makes me want to sit and eat all day and night!

I was looking for some yummy, and different snacks. Because our strawberry bushes are really starting to produce some nice berries. :) Not to mention, all the great deals at the grocery store. I found this "recipe." It's simple, healthy, and yummy! I've been enjoy some fresh strawberries on top of my yogurt cone for about a month now. Why didn't I think of this? All of my favorites. Here's the "recipe."




Strawberry Yogurt Cones

1 cup fresh California strawberries, stemmed and halved
1 cup non-fat yogurt: plain, vanilla or lemon
4 waffle cones
Colored sprinkles or granola, for garnish


Directions
In bowl, gently mix together strawberries and yogurt, reserving 2-3 halves for garnish. Spoon into waffle cones, dividing mixture equally. If desired, garnish with sprinkles or granola and remaining strawberry slices. Serve with spoons. Makes 4 servings.


Honestly, I'm really enjoying this. I've been cutting up strawberries and putting them in the bottom of a cone. Then I add about between 1/2-1 cup of yogurt. Just plain. It's what I eat for breakfast. So I buy the big container. Then I add some sliced strawberries on top, with some sliced almonds. This is definitely one of my new favorite snacks! ♥

Strawberry Angel Cake

If you don't know it yet, I'm in LOVE with strawberries. I'll eat them straight off the plants. I like them mixed with some other berries. Frozen. Macerated with whipped cream. They're good in pies. Honestly, any which way that you give them to me, I'll eat them!

Like I've said before, Gooseberry Patch is a great place to sign up for free recipes and tips. This week, the recipe is for a Strawberry Angel Cake. Yummy! I think I'm going to make it today. We're going to My Guy's Grandma's house for dinner. I'm sure she would also enjoy it!

I'm going to "tweek" the recipe a bit though. I'm going to bake an Angel Food Cake. It makes me feel less guilty about eat 3 servings! :) And I'm going to make some macerated berries, instead of using the strawberry ice cream topping. To me, it just makes it a bit more healthy. You know, anything that makes me feel less guilty about eating a few servings!



Strawberry Angel Cake
Submitted by: Lisa Johnson from Hallsville, Texas

16-oz. baked angel food cake
2 c. whipping cream
2/3 c. strawberry ice cream topping
2 pts. strawberries, hulled and halved


Slice cake horizontally into 4 layers; set aside. In a chilled bowl with an electric mixer on high speed, beat whipping cream and topping until stiff peaks form. Place bottom layer of cake on a cake plate; frost with a 1/2-inch layer of whipped cream mixture. Repeat with remaining cake layers. Frost entire cake with remaining whipped cream mixture, making sure to cover top and sides of cake. Arrange berries over top and sides, pressing firmly into whipped cream. Serve immediately or keep chilled up to 8 hours. Makes 10 servings.


I hope you enjoy this recipe. It really does sound yummy! No matter if you're following the recipe to a T, or if you're like me. I generally use recipes as inspiration. Or as guide. Don't forget to sign up for the great e-mails from Gooseberry Patch! ♥

Strawberry Almond Salad

I've been searching for some yummy strawberry recipes. For one, straberries are my favorite fruit. Honestly, me and strawberries go way back! And secondly, I found a great deal on strawberries this week. I got 2 flats for $5. Not pints my friends, flats!

I really want to make something yummy. Tomorrow I'm going to make strawberry french toast for breakfast. Yum! It already has my mouth watering. What else can I make? After a quick search, I found this Strawberry Almond Salad. I'm so excited to try this tomorrow too!


Strawberry Almond Salad

Ingredients:

1 cup cottage cheese
1/2 cup nonfat or light sour cream
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 pint (2 cups) fresh strawberries
1/2 pint (1 cup) fresh raspberries
1/2 pint (1 cup) fresh blueberries
1/2 cup sliced almonds, dry roasted

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, process cottage cheese until smooth. Transfer to an airtight container; refrigerate for 8 hours or until firm.

2. Put cottage cheese in a bowl; gently fold in sour cream, honey, almond extract.

3. At serving time, slice strawberries and gently combine with other berries in a bowl. Spoon about 1/3 cup berries into individual dessert dishes. Top each serving with 2 tablespoons of the cream mixture. Sprinkle with sliced almonds.



By the way, strawberries have more vitamin C than oranges. And the taste pretty good too! I would suggest going to your nearest grocery store. Because strawberries are currently on sale everywhere! And they're delish! ♥