Showing posts with label Easy Recipe. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Easy Recipe. Show all posts

Easy Picnic Recipes

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Easy Picnic Recipes


Easy Picnic Recipes ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Easy Picnic Recipes

Easy Picnic

These Easy Picnic Recipes and smart picnic food ideas will ensure your summer pienics are full of food, fun and laughter. Get the party started with my sure-fire tips for grilling the perfect burgers. And make up a big batch of homemade lemonade with the kids, using my easy recipe. Fried chicken is the perfect easy picnic food because you can make it in advance and serve it cold. Could there be an easier picnic recipe?And don't forget the picnic sides and salads. My easy picnic salad recipes include classics, like potato salad and cole slaw, plus new favorites. And no picnic would be complete without dessert. These easy picnic dessert recipes will have your guests going home happy -- guaranteed!


1. Take This Quiz to Learn How to Practice Picnic Food Safety

What temperature should chicken breasts be cooked to? How long is it safe to leave potato salad out? Discover the answers to these questions and more by taking my Picnic Food Safety Quiz.



2. Tips for Grilling Burgers

If you want to go with a classic entree for your picnic, there's nothing better than burgers. These tips will tell you everything from how to choose the best meat for the juiciest burgers to how to season burgers properly to how to know when a burger is cooked through.



3. How to Make Fried Chicken

I'm a big fan of make-ahead dishes. The only problem with some barbecues and summer picnic foods is that you have to make the main course at the last minute. With fried chicken, though, you can make it ahead of time and serve it cold. Or heat it up. The choice is yours. But you don't have to fuss at the last minute, so you have more time to be with your friends.

This step-by-step instructions show you how to make perfectly crispy, juicy buttermilk fried chicken.



4. Salad Recipes

Round out your picnic with these easy salad recipes. You'll discover vegetable salad recipes, fruit salad recipes, pasta salad recipes, potato salad recipes and more salads to fill out your perfect picnic.



5. How to Make Lemonade

There is nothing quite like the sweet-tart taste of lemonade on a hot summer day. With these step-by-step directions, you can make your own homemade lemonade in minutes.



6. Easy Summer Desserts

Complete your picnic with something sweet. Choose from 10 easy summer dessert recipes, including homemade strawberry ice cream, blueberry pie, ice cream sandwich cake and the best chocolate chip cookies.



Related : Easy Picnic Recipes By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Easy Picnic Recipes, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe


Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe

Ice Cream Sandwich Cake

This Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe is terrific for Memorial Day Desserts, Father's Day, 4th of July, or any summer picnic or party. Kids can make this ice cream sandwich cake all by themselves. I like to use a combination of regular and strawberry ice cream sandwiches for this easy, no-cook ice cream sandwich cake.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

* 20 ice cream sandwiches (regular, strawberry or neopolitan)
* 1 12 oz. jar hot fudge sauce
* 1 8 oz. container frozen whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
* red, white and blue sprinkles


Preparation

1. Cut one ice cream sandwich in half. Place one whole ice cream sandwich and one half of an ice cream sandwich side by side across the short end of a 9 x 13 pan.

2. Next to those ice cream sandwiches, arrange 8 more ice cream sandwiches lengthwise, to cover the bottom of the pan.

3. Place Hot Fudge Sauce in a microwave-safe container. Heat on high for 30 seconds. Spread half of the sauce over the ice cream sandwiches.

4. Top with half of the whipped topping.

5. Repeat layers: ice cream sandwiches, hot fudge sauce and whipped topping. Scatter sprinkles over top.

6. Freeze, uncovered 2 hours. Cover with foil and freeze another hour.

Makes 24-36 servings.


Related : Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Chocolate Sauce Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Chocolate Sauce Recipe


Chocolate Sauce Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Chocolate Sauce Recipe

Chocolate Sauce

This Chocolate Sauce makes a wonderful topping for everything from ice cream to fresh raspberries to chocolate cake.


Ingredients

* 3/4 cup cream
* 1 Tbsp. butter
* 8 oz. semisweet or dark chocolate, chopped



Preparation

1. Heat cream and butter in a heavy saucepan over medium heat just until bubbles start to form around the edges.

2. Place chocolate in a heat-proof dish. Pour cream sauce over. Stir until chocolate melts.


Related : Chocolate Sauce Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Chocolate Sauce Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Vegetarian Chili Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Vegetarian Chili Recipe


Vegetarian Chili Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Vegetarian Chili Recipe

Vegetarian Chili

This Vegetarian Chili Recipe is a great make-ahead meal. Simply cook as directed, cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container.

Serve this Vegetarian Chili with Cornbread and a Green Salad for a healthy, flavorful meal the whole family will enjoy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes


Ingredients

* 2 Tbsp. canola oil
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup diced carrots
* 1 large zucchini, diced
* 2 14 oz. cans diced tomatoes with green chilies
* 1 14 oz. can crushed tomatoes
* 1 14 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 14 oz. can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
* 2 Tbsp. chili powder
* 1 Tbsp. ground cumin
* 1 tsp. sugar


Preparation

1. Heat oil in a large, heavy saucepan or dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, and cook 1-2 minutes, until softened.

2. Add diced red pepper, garlic and carrots. Cook another 3-5 minutes. Add zucchini. Cook another 2 minutes or until vegetables are softened.

3. Add remaining ingredients. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until carrots are fork tender and flavors meld together, about 20 minutes.

4. Taste and adjust seasonings.


Related : Vegetarian Chili Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Vegetarian Chili Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Baked Rice Pudding Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Baked Rice Pudding Recipe


Baked Rice Pudding Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Baked Rice Pudding Recipe

Baked Rice Pudding

This baked rice pudding is comfort food at its best: creamy, silky, and oh so satisfying.

With just 5 ingredients, this Baked Rice Pudding Recipe couldn't be simpler. The only thing you need to know to make this rice pudding recipe work is to stir it every 10-15 minutes. This is crucial! Otherwise, the rice pudding will develop a skin, and it won't be evenly cooked.

Demerara sugar on top is the perfect finishing touch for this rice pudding. Demerara sugar is less refined than table sugar, and has slightly larger crystals that dance on the tongue.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours, 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours, 20 minutes


Ingredients

* 4 cups milk (whole, 2% or skim)
* 1/3 cup arborio rice
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 1 Tbsp. butter
* 2 Tbsp. Demerara sugar



Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Spray an 8 x 8 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

3. Pour milk into baking dish. Add rice, brown sugar and butter. Stir gently.

4. Place on the center rack of preheated oven. Bake 2 to 2-1/2 hours, stirring every 10-15 minutes.*

5. Remove from oven. Sprinkle Demerara sugar on top.

*IMPORTANT: this rice pudding is almost effortless to make, but it is crucial to stir it every 10-15 minutes. Otherwise, the rice pudding will develop a skin and burn.


Related : Baked Rice Pudding Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Baked Rice Pudding Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Cornbread Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Cornbread Recipe


Cornbread Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Cornbread Recipe

Cornbread

This Cornbread Recipe is rich, sweet and creamy. I came up with this recipe when my daughter was growing peppers in her AeroGarden. We had to find a way to use all those mini jalapenos and purple hot peppers!

Serve this Cornbread with Chili.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes


Ingredients

* 1 8 oz. box corn bread mix (such as Jiffy)
* 1/3 cup milk
* 1/3 cup ricotta cheese
* 1 large egg
* 2 Tbsp. honey
* 3 Tbsp. diced jalapeno or serrano chili peppers




Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Spray a 9 x 9 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

3. In a large bowl, stir together all ingredients. Do not overmix.

4. Pour into prepared baking dish. Bake 15 to 18 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.


Related : Cornbread Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Cornbread Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Beef Stew Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Beef Stew Recipe


Beef Stew Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Beef Stew Recipe

Beef Stew

The long, slow cooking process makes the meat in this Beef Stew melt-in-your-mouth tender. This Beef Stew Recipe is really a meal in and of itself. Serve it for Sunday dinner with Baked Rice Pudding for dessert.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours, 30 minutes


Ingredients

* 2-3 lbs. beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 Tbsp. olive oil
* 1 cup baby carrots
* 4 stalks celery, cut into 2-inch chunks
* 2 medium yellow onions, peeled and quartered
* 3 large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced into 2-inch chunks
* 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
* 1/2 tsp. freshly-ground black pepper
* 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
* 2 cups V-8 juice



Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees F.

2. In a large bowl, toss beef with flour, making sure all sides of the beef cubes are coated, shaking off excess flour.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef to the skillet. Brown on all sides.

4. Transfer beef to an oven-proof 5-quart dutch oven with a lid (an enameled cast iron dutch oven works best). Add carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes. Pour V-8 juice all over beef and vegetables.

5. Stir. Cover and cook 5 hours.


Related : Beef Stew Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Beef Stew Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Beef Brisket Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Beef Brisket Recipe


Beef Brisket Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Beef Brisket Recipe

Beef Brisket

Beef Brisket is a classic holiday dish for everything from Rosh Hashana to Passover in my family. My mother makes a delicious brisket. This is her Beef Brisket Recipe, with just a few tweaks to make it my own.

I like to cook my brisket the day before I serve it. Then I slice the brisket, wrap it tightly in its pan juices, and reheat the brisket at 325 degrees for about 20 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours, 15 minutes

Ingredients

* 1 3- to 4-pound beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
* 2 large onions, sliced
* 1 envelope onion soup mix
* 1 12 oz. jar chili sauce
* 1 cup red wine


Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

2. Place sliced onions in the bottom of a 9 x 13 glass baking dish.

3. Lay trimmed brisket on top of the onions.

4. Sprinkle onion soup mix evenly over brisket.

5. In a small bowl, stir together the chili sauce and red wine. Pour over brisket.

6. Bake brisket on the middle or lower rack of the preheated oven for 2-1/2 to 3 hours until the meat is cooked through.

7. Take meat out of the oven and allow to rest 15-20 minutes before cutting.

8. Cut brisket into thin slices against the grain; otherwise the meat will be tough and stringy.

9. You can serve immediately or cover the brisket tightly with foil and reheat later.

This brisket also freezes well. Just wrap the sliced brisket very tightly in foil and then in a zip-top plastic bag. Place the pan juices in a separate plastic container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before re-heating.


Related : Beef Brisket Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Beef Brisket Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Easy Chili Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Easy Chili Recipe


Easy Chili Recipe
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Easy Chili Recipe

Easy Chili

This is one of those Chili Recipe that is just so simple to prepare. It starts with already-cooked beef. You can use leftover Brisket, Beef Stew meat or frozen or refrigerated cooked beef for this Easy Chili Recipe. Serve with Cornbread and a Green Salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes


Ingredients

* 1 Tbsp. canola oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
* 1 16 oz. jar mild tomato salsa
* 1 14 oz. can chili beans, undrained
* 1 14 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 14 oz. can diced tomatoes with jalapeno peppers, undrained
* 1-2 cups leftover cooked beef brisket or pot roast, shredded
* 1/2 cup frozen corn
* 1 tsp. ground cumin
* 1 tsp. chili powder
* 1/2 cup beer or root beer



Preparation

1. Heat oil in a large stock pot or dutch oven. Add onions and garlic. Cook and stir until onions are softened, 3-5 minutes.

2. Stir in remaining ingredients. Simmer, over medium-low heat 10 minutes, or until chili thickens. Taste and adjust seasonings.

Serve immediately, or let chili cool and freeze in an airtight container.



Related : Easy Chili Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Easy Chili Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Crockpot Chili Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Crockpot Chili Recipe


Crockpot Chili Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Crockpot Chili Recipe

Crockpot Chili

This Crockpot Chili Recipe is as tasty as it is easy to prepare. Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw and Cornbread make delicious accompaniments to this Crockpot chili recipe.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours, 15 minutes


Ingredients

* 1 lb. lean ground beef
* 1 medium yellow onion, diced
* 1 medium green pepper, red pepper or poblano pepper diced
* 2 Tbsp. chili powder
* 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
* 1 Tbsp. ground cumin
* 1 28 oz. can diced tomatoes with juices
* 1 14 oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 14 oz. can chili beans, undrained
* 1/2 cup ketchup
* 1/4 cup canned sliced jalapeno peppers (optional)
* kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
* shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream and fresh cilantro for garnish


Preparation

1. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Drain and transfer beef to the slow cooker. Add the next 10 ingredients (through jalapeno peppers) to the slow cooker.

3. Cook on high, 4-5 hours or low, 6-8 hours.

4. Just before serving, taste and add salt and pepper, as needed. If chili appears too watery, remove 1/2 to 1 cup of the liquid, stir in 1 Tbsp. of cornstarch and return it to the slow cooker. Cook until thickened, about 15 minutes.

Serve garnished with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream and fresh cilantro.



Related : Crockpot Chili Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Crockpot Chili Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw Recipe

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Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw Recipe


Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw Recipe

Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw

This Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw Recipe makes a great side dish for picnics, cookouts and barbecues. It goes great with everything from burgers to Fried Chicken.

But you don't have to wait for a cookout. This Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw makes an excellent, easy side dish for Chili, chicken recipes too.



Ingredients

* 1/2 cup canola oil
* 1/4 cup rice vinegar
* 2 Tbsp. honey
* 1 3 oz. package oriental-flavored Ramen noodles
* 16 oz. package cole slaw mix (cabbage, carrots) or 1 large head cabbage, shredded
* 1/2 cup peanuts



Preparation

1. In a large salad bowl, whisk together canola oil, vinegar and honey. Whisk in the seasoning packet from the Ramen noodles.

2. Place Ramen noodles in a sealed plastic bag, and crush with your fingers or a rolling pin. Pour into the dressing in the salad. bowl.

3. Pour cole slaw mix over top. Toss to coat well with the dressing.

4. Top with peanuts.



Related : Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Ramen Noodle Cole Slaw Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Sweet Cornbread Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Sweet Cornbread Recipe


Sweet Cornbread Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Sweet Cornbread Recipe

Sweet Cornbread

This easy Cornbread Recipe takes only a few minutes to prepare. But the result is a tender, slightly Sweet Cornbread that goes perfectly with Chili, Salad or soup.

Amazingly, this Sweet Cornbread Recipe has no butter or oil. It gets its tenderness from yogurt and honey.


Ingredients

* 2 cups baking mix (such as Bisquick)
* 6 Tbsp. cornmeal
* 1-1/2 tsp. baking powder
* 1/4 tsp. baking soda
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup honey
* 1 cup non-fat plain yogurt
* 1/4 cup skim milk


Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an 8 x 8 baking dish with cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, stir together the baking mix, cornmeal, baking powder and baking soda.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, honey, yogurt and skim milk. Pour into the dry ingredients.

4. Mix gently, until there are no lumps of flour showing, but do not overmix.

5. Pour into prepared pan. Bake 28-34 minutes, until golden brown.



Related : Sweet Cornbread Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Sweet Cornbread Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Seven Layer Salad Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Seven Layer Salad Recipe


Seven Layer Salad Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Seven Layer Salad Recipe

Seven Layer Salad

This Seven Layer Salad is the perfect addition to any party, potluck or holiday celebration. It looks attractive, tastes great, and best of all, you can make this layer salad in advance. Feel free to vary the ingredients, but be sure to use a tall glass bowl for this Seven Layer Salad Recipe.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes


Ingredients

* 6 slices bacon
* 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded or chopped
* 1 yellow onion, diced
* 3/4 cup diced celery
* 1 medium red pepper, seeded and diced
* 1 10 oz. package frozen peas, thawed
* 1-1/4 cups mayonnaise
* 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese


Preparation

1. Fry bacon. Drain on paper towels, and set aside.

2. Place lettuce in a tall glass bowl.

3. Scatter onions over lettuce in an even layer.

4. Top with layers of celery, red pepper and frozen peas.

5. Whisk together mayonnaise and sugar. Spread evenly over peas, like icing.

6. Top with shredded cheese. Crumble bacon over cheese.

7. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate 30 minutes or up to 12 hours.

8. When ready to serve, toss salad.



Related : Seven Layer Salad Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Seven Layer Salad Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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BBQ Chicken Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

BBQ Chicken Recipe


BBQ Chicken Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

BBQ Chicken Recipe

BBQ Chicken

The challenge in making BBQ Chicken Recipe is preventing the outside of the chicken from burning before the inside is cooked through. This is traditionally solved by painting the barbecue sauce on the chicken at the end of cooking. But this recipe uses a different method: an electric skillet. The result is a tender, tasty BBQ chicken through and through.


Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes


Ingredients

* 1 tsp. oil
* 3 lbs. chicken pieces
* kosher salt and black pepper
* 16 oz. barbecue sauce
* 16 oz. orange soda


Preparation

1. Preheat an electric skillet to 275 degrees F. Add oil.

2. Season chicken on both sides with salt and pepper. When oil is hot, add chicken to the skillet. Brown for 2 minutes on the first side. Flip.

3. Add the barbecue sauce and orange soda.

4. Cook, basting occasionally, 35-40 minutes until chicken is cooked through.



Related : BBQ Chicken Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ BBQ Chicken Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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How to Make Lemonade

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

How to Make Lemonade


How to Make Lemonade ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

How to Make Lemonade

How to Make Lemonade Step 1 - Gather the Ingredients for the Lemonade


Gather the Ingredients for the Lemonade
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Once you learn how to make lemonade with these easy instructions, you'll never go back to store-bought lemonade again.

The first step is gathering your ingredients for the Lemonade Recipe.

You will need:

* 1-1/4 cups granulated sugar

* 6 cups cold water, divided

* 5-8 lemons

In addition, you will need:

* a strainer

* reamer (optional)

* 1- or 2-cup liquid measuring cup

* pitcher





Make the Simple Syrup
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Pour the sugar and 1 cup of the water into a saucepan. Over medium heat, bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and stir until all the sugar has dissolved.

Now you have a simple syrup. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate while you juice the lemons.





Prepare the Lemons
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Roll the lemons to warm them and get the juices flowing. Cut in half.





Juice the Lemons
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Place a strainer over a liquid measuring cup. I like to use a 2-cup liquid measuring cup because the strainer fits easily over it.

Now juice the lemons over the strainer, allowing the liquid to flow into the measuring cup. Continue juicing until you have 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. You may need 5 lemons; you may need up to 8 lemons.




Combine the Lemon Juice and Simple Syrup
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Mix the refrigerated simple syrup and the remaining 5 cups of cold water. Add the fresh lemon juice. Mix well.



Enjoy Your Lemonade
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Enjoy your lemonade! For variety, try garnishing with fresh mint, fresh lemon slices or a fresh strawberry.



Related : How to Make Lemonade By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ How to Make Lemonade, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Simple Syrup Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Simple Syrup Recipe


Simple Syrup ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Simple Syrup Recipe

Simple Syrup

Simple Syrup requires only water and granulated syrup, and can easily be made in only a few minutes. It's a building block for cocktails or for nonalcoholic drinks, and can also be used to sweeten iced tea or coffee, or even to brush over cakes before frosting to keep them moist. You can even flavor simple syrup by steeping ingredients like vanilla beans, herbs or citrus peel in it. Simple syrup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup water

Preparation

1. In a small saucepan combine sugar and water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer and the sugar dissolves until the liquid is no longer cloudy and is perfectly clear, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat, cool simple syrup completely before storing in the refrigerator.

This recipe for Simple Syrup makes about 1 1/2 cups.



Related : Simple Syrup Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Simple Syrup Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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How to Measure Flour

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How to Measure Flour


How to Measure Flour ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

How to Measure Flour

Improper measuring is probably the number one reason recipes fail. Flour is crucial to the structure of baked goods; too much flour and your product will be tough and dry. Too little flour, and your product will collapse when it comes out of the oven, and have wet spots and dense layers.

To correctly Measure Flour, use a spoon to lightly scoop flour out of its container into a measuring cup. Continue until the cup is overflowing. Then use the back side of a knife to level off the flour even with the top edge of the measuring cup. Repeat as necessary, with 1 cup, 1/2 cup, 1/3 cup, and 1/4 cup measures. Be sure to look at my Step by Step: Measuring Flour Correctly for best results.

For the most accurate flour measuring, you can weigh the flour on a kitchen scale. This is what home economists do when they are testing recipes before publication; and it's the way Nigella Lawson always measures her flour on her TV show!

* One cup of white flour weighs 120 grams.
* One cup of whole wheat flour weighs 140 grams.
* One cup of bread flour weighs 130 grams.
* One cup of cake flour weighs 114 grams.

The most common mistake made in measuring flour is to dip the measuring cup into the flour instead of lightly spooning flour into the measuring cup. This can result in up to 25% more flour than the recipe calls for.

To see this for yourself, measure 3 cups of flour into a bowl by scooping the flour with the measuring cup. Then stir the measured flour, and re-measure by lightly scooping with a spoon. When you have measured 3 cups this way, how much flour is left in the bowl? This extra flour will make your baked products heavy and tough. So remember to measure by lightly scooping with a spoon!



Related : How to Measure Flour By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ How to Measure Flour, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Measuring Flour

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Measuring Flour


Measuring Flour ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Measuring Flour

Measuring Flour: Wrong and Right

This is the wrong way to measure flourPicture Of

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Measuring Flour incorrectly is one of the most common mistakes people make in baking and cooking. At the University of Minnesota, we conducted experiments where we learned that the biggest variable in every recipe is the cook. So standardizing measuring techniques is the most important way to ensure that a recipe works.

This is the wrong way to measure flour. Scooping flour from the container or bag directly with the measuring cup will pack the flour into the cup and you'll end up with too much flour. Even with a properly leveled top, this method is wrong.


Gram weight of flour measured incorrectly
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A cup of all-purpose flour, properly measured, should weigh 120 grams. As you can see, the flour measured incorrectly by dipping the measuring cup into the flour weighs 161 grams. This is more than 30% more flour than the recipe needs. A cookie or cake made with flour measured this way will be tough and dry. Sauces will be too thick, and pie crusts crumbly and dry.



Measuring flour correctly
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To measure flour correctly, you need calibrated measuring cups made for measuring dry ingredients. Do not use a coffee cup or drinking glass. Lightly spoon the flour directly into the measuring cup from the container or bag. Do not shake the cup. Do not pack the flour down.




Continue to spoon
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Keep spooning the flour into the cup until it mounds well above the top of the measuring cup.




Level off the top
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Using a dinner knife, turn it so the flat side is down. Hold the cup with the flour in your left hand, and start sweeping the knife over the top of the cup to remove the excess flour.




Keep leveling
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You'll probably need to pass the knife over the measuring cup a few times to get a level surface. Do not shake the cup or pack the flour down.




Weight of properly measured flour
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As you can see, the properly measured flour weighs 121 grams. That's an accurate measurement, and the recipe will be perfect.

Other Measure Flours weigh different amounts. For the most accurate baking, you can weigh flour instead of measuring it. But with some practice, your flour measuring skills will become quite precise.



Related : Measuring Flour By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Measuring Flour, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Lemon Bars Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Lemon Bars Recipe


Lemon Bars Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
Picture Of

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Lemon Bars Recipe

Lemon Bars

I like to make these Lemon Bars for bake sales, potlucks, picnics and spring and summer celebrations. There is just something about the sweet-tart taste of lemon that really tickles the taste buds.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes


Ingredients

* 1 cup butter, softened to room temperature
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling

* 5 large eggs
* 1-3/4 cups granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup freshly-squeezed lemon juice
* zest of 2 lemons
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/3 cup powdered sugar


Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish.

2. With an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar together. Add flour to mixture just until it comes together as a dough. Turn out onto a floured board and knead a few times. Press into bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared pan.

3. Bake 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Let crust cool on a wire rack.

4. For the filling, beat eggs, sugar, lemon juice and lemon zest together. Whisk in flour until smooth. Pour into crust. Bake 30 minutes or until filling is set.

5. Let lemon bars cool to room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Makes 36 lemon bars.



Related : Lemon Bars Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Lemon Bars Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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Ice Cream Pie Recipe

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Ice Cream Pie Recipe


Ice Cream Pie Recipe ~ Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
Picture Of

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Molten Chocolate Lava Cake

Ice Cream Pie Recipe

Ice Cream Pie

This Ice Cream Pie is one of my favorite summertime desserts, because everybody loves it, and it's so easy to make. Although my recipe for ice cream pie calls for homemade chocolate sauce, you can certainly use store-bought chocolate sauce in a pinch.

Prep Time: 4 hours, 5 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours, 5 minutes

Ingredients

* 1 9-inch graham cracker pie crust
* 1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened
* 3/4 cup crushed peanuts
* 3/4 cup miniature chocolate chips
* Chocolate Sauce:
* 1 8 oz. semisweet chocolate bar, chopped
* 1 Tbsp. butter
* 1/3 cup heavy cream

Preparation

1. Spread softened ice cream into graham cracker pie crust. Smooth the top of the ice cream. Sprinkle crushed peanuts and chocolate chips over ice cream. Freeze until firm, about 4 hours.

2. Make the chocolate sauce: Place chopped chocolate and butter in a glass bowl. Heat cream in a small saucepan over medium-low heat just until scalded (bubbles will form around the edge). Immediately pour cream over chopped chocolate. Stir until melted.

3. Cut pieces of pie. Spoon hot chocolate sauce over pie.

Makes 8 servings of ice cream pie.



Related : Ice Cream Pie Recipe By Stephanie Gallagher, About.com Guide ~ Ice Cream Pie Recipe, Molten Chocolate Lava Cake
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