Kitchen Crafts 'n' More

Tuesday, January 30, 2007 Recipe Request for Homemade Oreo Cookies

Here's the most recent recipe request I've received from KCnM subscribers:

Taina wrote:
"Does anyone have a recipe (copycat) for Oreo cookies? Thanks."

If any of you have a homemade Oreo cookie recipe to share, please email it to me at christinam@nucleus.com. Thanks!


Click HERE To View Recipes Lost and Found - All the Recipes We HAVE Found

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Tuesday, January 23, 2007 New Recipes: Mint Fudge Bars Recipe

MINT FUDGE BARS
Submitted by Jeannie

Grease 9 x 9" pan.

Base: In top of double boiler over hot water, melt two squares of baking chocolate and 1 stick margarine.

In bowl: Beat 2 eggs 1 c. sugar ½ tsp. mint flavoring ½ c. sifted flour Add chocolate mixture and mix well.
Pour in prepared pan.
Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Test with toothpick. Cool. Filling: 2 c. sifted powder sugar 2 T. soft margarine ¾ tsp. mint flavoring Enough cream to make a spreading consistency.

Mix well and frost bars. Chill.
Topping: In top of double boiler over water melt 1 c. Nestle's Choc. Chips, 1 T. margarine. Mix. Pour over top and chill.

Posted by HappySlob :: 7:48 AM :: 0 comments

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How to Season a Cast Iron Pan - Readers Tips

And, another answer to last week's newsletter Readers' Q&A on how to season cast iron pans and skillets:


Hi Christina,

This is the seasoning method right from a catalog that sells Lodge cast iron cookware.

Hand wash with little or no detergent, then dry thoroughly. Use a plastic scraper if needed, never a metal scouring pad. Lightly coat the inside and outside with vegetable shortening such as Crisco. Make sure to get all the corners. Do not use butter, margarine or liquid vegetable oil. Place upside down on middle rack in oven with a cookie sheet or foil pan on the bottom to catch drips. Turn oven to heat at 350 degrees. After one hour turn the oven off and let the pan cool inside the oven. Remove from oven and wipe off any excess shortening.

Hope this helps someone out.
Pat in Michigan

Posted by HappySlob :: 7:42 AM :: 0 comments

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How to Repair Holes in Walls

Recently, a reader asked in our newsletter how to repair holes in walls. Ethel sent in a great tip she's used herself, that I wanted to share with all of you:

To the reader who wanted to know how to repair holes in walls. I take a piece of nylon net, stuff it in the hole and then put spackling compound over the whole "mess". When it is completely dry, sand it and then you are ready to paint. The nylon net holds the spackling compound in place and does not deteriorate. This is a lot easier than replacing wallboard (and a lot cheaper!).

Posted by HappySlob :: 7:40 AM :: 0 comments

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Sunday, January 21, 2007 Simple Knitted Dishcloth Pattern

Here's a wonderful, easy knitted dishcloth pattern that Patricia sent in back in 2000. :) It's fantastic for anyone who's just getting started with the hobby of knitting.

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Patricia sent in this easy knitting pattern for others like me whoare just getting started with knitting. Thanks Patricia –you're so sweet to share this with us! It's for a simple dishcloth thatI'm going to try after finishing this scarf I'm working on. She says that for an easy gift she takes one of these and a crocheted potholder, ties them together with a wooden spoon. Sounds wonderful!

Peaches & Creme 100% Cotton Worsted WeightYarn 4 ply (2 oz.)
Size 8 knitting needles

Cast on 4 stitches.
Knit 1 row.
Knit 2, yarn over, knit to end.
Repeat this row until you have 42 stitches.
Knit 1, knit 2 together, yarn over, knit 2 together,knit to end of row.Repeat this row until 8 stitches remain.
Knit 2 together four times. (4 stitches left)
Knit 1 row.
Cast off.
Weave in ends.
One ball of wool should do 2 dishrags. Enjoy, everyone!

Posted by HappySlob :: 9:47 AM :: 1 comments

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Use Baking Soda to Clean Your Hair - Natural Health and Beauty Tips from Readers

Here's a great BAKING SODA tip that you may not have heard before:

Leoa writes: "A great use for baking soda is as a hair cleaner. I use
it once a week instead of shampoo. I know it doesn't
lather up, but it removes all the hairspray, grease, etc from your
hair
. It works great and it is much cheaper than expensive
build-up removers. Just put about 1/8 of a cup in your hands and
after you have wet your hair rub in. It also makes a great scrub
for your face. Just use instead of soap."
(Submitted by Leoa back
in 2000!)

Sounds like a really great way to get your hair nice and clean - naturally. I think I'd call this a build up remover. :) Enjoy, all!

Posted by HappySlob :: 9:38 AM :: 0 comments

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Gluten Intolerance - How to Make Your Own Rice Flour

Here's a fantastic tip for any of you who are gluten intolerant. Taken from one of our old KCNM Newsletters

I have one tip for all of you who are unable to eat gluten. A friendonce told me what she does to make rice flour.She takes plain, long-grain rice (uncooked) and grinds it to a finepowder in either a blender or coffee/spice grinder.Then she uses it in recipes just as you would regular flour!

Do you have more tips to share about gluten intolerance? Then please send them in to me at christina@happyslob.com with the subject title: Gluten Intolerance. Thanks guys!


Posted by HappySlob :: 9:34 AM :: 0 comments

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Thursday, January 18, 2007 Real Vanilla Extract - Homemade Vanilla Lip Gloss Craft Project

Vanilla Lip Gloss
And this is the last recipe today from our old newsletters. :) Hope you enjoy this - it's one of my personal favorites. You can use UN-petroleum jelly from the health food store instead of the petroleum jelly if you prefer. (Readers have suggested this and I thought I'd pass the idea on...)

This lip gloss is great for any vanilla lover! It's soothing,andwill help soften chapped lips and is so much fun to make! (And a lot cheaper than buying it at the store!)

Ingredients
1 1/2 Tablespoon Petroleum Jelly
1 Tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel
1 teaspoons sweet almond oil
1/2 teaspoon Vanilla
double boiler or microwave

You can double, triple, or quadruple this recipe! Or, even make 10 or 12 recipes all at once. (If you're giving this as gifts it is easier to make a big batch and bottle it all up at once.)

Heat this gently over a double boiler for a few minutes, until wellcombined and warmed through. Or, put in a microwave-safe plastic or glass dish and heat on low heat for a minute, stir, and heat for another 20 seconds and stir again. If you're just doing a single recipe, this is all you'll need to heat the mixture before bottling.If you're making large quantities, microwave for a little longer.Spoon or pour the vanilla lip gloss mixture into tiny glass or plastic containers and store in the fridge to harden slightly.


MORE Homemade Spa, Beauty & Bath Recipes - all FREE on the KCnM Website

Posted by HappySlob :: 7:01 PM :: 0 comments

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Homemade Shortbread Mix - Great Gift Mix (In a Jar Gift Ideas)

Shortbread Mix In a Jar Recipe
Here's another old recipe from an original 2000 Kitchen Crafts 'n' More Newsletter. It's another simple "In a Jar" recipe, and it's a smart idea to keep a jar of this on hand to whip up super fast cookies anytime company drops by unexpectedly...Only 3 ingredients in this mix recipe also makes it VERY frugal indeed!


So simple to make great gifts in a jar, without having to bake anything yourself! Or, keep jars of this in your own pantry to whip up batches of shortbread quickly and easily.

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 tsp. salt

In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients, blendingwell. Store in an airtight container - A Mason jar works perfectly for this recipe. If you're giving this as a gift, attach the following recipe to the jar.

Shortbread
Makes 16 pieces

1 cup butter, softened
1 package Scottish Shortbread Mix

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Add the butter tothe Shortbread mix in a big bowl, and stir together with a wooden spoon. Knead the mix for about a minute, until the dough is nice and smooth. Press the dough into an 8-inch pie plate or round cake panor a shortbread mold. Bake for 1 hour, until nice and golden but not dark brown.Cut into wedges while still warm, and let cool slightly befores erving.

To store, layer the cooled cookies between layers of waxed paper in a tin and seal.

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Tips, Hints and Ideas:

~ Shortbread is such a simple cookie, but one of the most delicious.It's rich in real butter, and makes a tender cookie perfect for gifts. Remember to use real butter, never margarine for thisrecipe. The flavor of the real, creamy butter is vital to the success of this recipe.

~ You can give this mix as a gift by packaging it in a beautiful jar,and adding the directions as a label on the back. Or, prepare the cookies and give them as a gift in a tin, wrapped in tissue paper.It'll be a favorite gift either way.

~ Add about one-half cup of pecans to the mix if you want a delicious pecan shortbread cookie. You can also add walnuts or almonds, but there's something about pecans that just seems to go beautifully with the shortbread.

Posted by HappySlob :: 6:55 PM :: 0 comments

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Bath and Beauty Recipes - Scented Bath (Talcum) Powder with Rose Essential Oil

Scented Bath Powder
Hey all, this oldie but goodie recipe is from a 2000 newsletter I sent out. It's a fantastic little homemade toiletry recipe. Plus, because it uses only baking soda, cornstarch & some essential oil or fragrance - it's easy AND easy on your wallet too. Yay for inexpensive gift ideas!


Here's the original recipe:

This is a wonderful after-bath powder to give as gifts, or you can
use it everyday.


1 cup baking soda
1 cup cornstarch
10-20 drops of Rose essential oil, or essential or fragrance
oil of your choice
Glass jar, to store


Combine the baking soda and cornstarch in a big glass jar. Add the
essential oil, a few drops at a time, shaking very well after each
addition. (You can use a small wire whisk or fork to get out any
clumps.) Test the scent of the bath powder after each addition to
get a powder that's perfectly scented for you. (Some people like
a strongly scented product, others like a very subtle scent.
It's up to you!)

Allow the powder to sit for about a day before using, to let the
fragrance or essential oil completely absorb. That's it! This
is a wonderful, simple recipe that you'll use for years to make your
own wonderful bath powder!

Posted by HappySlob :: 6:47 PM :: 0 comments

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Wow - the Kitchen Crafts Newsletter Has Been Out since 2000!

It's hard to believe that this will be my 7th year writing the KCnM Newsletter. As a way to remember all the great tips we've had from readers over the years, I'm going to be posting some of my favorites from the past seven years. :) Hope all of you enjoy it!

Christina

Posted by HappySlob :: 6:37 PM :: 0 comments

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Saturday, January 13, 2007 Buttered Parsley Potatoes Recipe from Joe's Crab Shack

BUTTERED PARSLEY POTATOES (Joe's Crab Shack)
Here's a simple and delicious side dish recipe - a copycat recipe of a famous potato dish served at a place called Joe's Crab Shack. Thanks to Jeannie for submitting the recipe!

1½ lb. small red potatoes, cut into bite sized chunks
¼ tsp. salt
2 tbsps. fresh parsley (finely chopped)
4 tbsps. butter

In a medium sized sauté pan place potato chunks and salt, cover with water. On medium heat bring potato pieces to a soft boil. Cook uncovered until fork tender. When tender, drain water and place back into sauté pan. Place freshly chopped parsley and butter on top of potatoes. Cover potatoes with a lid and cook on low heat for 20-30 minutes. Stir gently several times to mix butter and parsley. When ready to serve season with salt and pepper

Posted by HappySlob :: 1:39 PM :: 0 comments

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Too Easy Tortellini Soup Recipe - Easy Soup Recipes

Too Easy Tortellini Soup
I don't EVER think a soup can be too easy...but Jeannie sent in this delicious, speedy soup recipe that will warm you up on cold winter days. Sounds delish.

4 cups chicken broth
1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 can (15 oz) white kidney or cannelloni beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14 1/2 oz) Italian diced tomatoes, undrained
1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Shredded Parmesan cheese and coarsely ground pepper, optional

In a large saucepan, bring broth to a boil. Stir in tortellini. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in beans, tomatoes and basil. Simmer for 4-6 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stir in vinegar. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and pepper if desired.

Yield: 6 servings

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Thursday, January 04, 2007 Kitchen Gadget of the Day - a Hershey's Kiss Shaped Chocolate Fondue Pot

Fondue is hot - and it's a fun way to eat and entertain all at the same time. That's why today's Kitchen Gadget of the Day is this Hershey's Kiss-Shaped Chocolate Fondue Set. Enjoy!

PS. Have a great chocolate fondue recipe to share? Please send it in to me and I'll post it here for everyone to try!

Posted by HappySlob :: 8:00 PM :: 0 comments

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How to Clean CDs - How to Clean Your CD's

I was wondering how to clean CD's, and subscribers to my Happy Slob's Housecleaning Newsletter came up aces with loads of helpful suggestions! You can read all of their great ideas and tips at The Happy Slob's Housecleaning Blog

If you have another idea to add, please email it to me at christina@happyslob.com

Posted by HappySlob :: 7:28 PM :: 0 comments

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Brownie Recipes - Triple Tier Brownies Recipe

Triple Tier Brownies
Submitted by Jeannie
Christina's Notes: "This takes a regular batch of boxed brownie mix and turns it into a bakeshop treat...with layers of extra chocolate, peanuts, rice Krispies and then cream cheese frosting on top. Are you drooling yet??"

1 package fudge brownie mix
1 package (11.5 oz) milk chocolate chips
1 cup peanut butter
3 cups rice cereal
1 can (16 oz) cream cheese frosting
1 cup salted peanuts, chopped

Prepare brownie mix according to package directions, using a greased 13-by-9-by-2 inch baking pan. Cool on wire rack. In a large saucepan, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Cook over low heat for 4-5 minutes or until blended, stirring occasionally. Stir in cereal; set aside.

Spread frosting over brownies. Sprinkle with peanuts. Spread with peanut butter mixture. Chill for 30 minutes or until set before cutting. Store in Refrigerator.

Yield: about 5 dozen

Posted by HappySlob :: 7:26 PM :: 0 comments

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Easy Dessert Recipes - 3 Ingredient Fruit Cobbler Recipe

Simple fruit cobbler
Only 3 Ingredients!
Submitted by Jeannie
Christina's Notes: "Hey, with only some canned fruit, a box of cake mix and a stick of butter - this is a recipe that even NON-bakers can handle. Top with some whipped cream or vanilla ice cream and you have a fast and super-simple dessert."

2 large cans of fruit -- peaches, pears
Box of cake mix -- any flavor: white, yellow, etc
Stick of melted butter

Put ingredients all together in a glass 13 by 9 glass baking dish.

Bake for 45 mins at 325 degrees

Posted by HappySlob :: 7:25 PM :: 1 comments

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Easy Bread Recipes - English Muffin Bread Recipe

English Muffin Bread
(Makes 2 loaves)
Submitted by Dorina
Christina's Notes: "Doesn't this sound delicious and comforting? I can totally imagine slicing a thick slice, generously slathering with butter and then some yummy berry jam. Great with tea! Enjoy..."

2 cups milk, scalded (regular or skim)
1/2 cup water
5-6 cups white flour
2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 Tbs. sugar
2 pkgs. (or Tbs) yeast
Cornmeal for dusting pans and tops of loaves, about 1/2 cup

The directions here will be for dry yeast that is quick-rising. (I don't know how to modify for that wonderful cake or moist yeast.)

Preheat oven to 400F(or 205C).

Scald the milk and water until it's a bit hot on your inner wrist (110 Fahrenheit or 42C).

Grease very well 2 regular U.S. loaf pans, 9 x 5 x 3 inches, and dust with cornmeal.

In a large mixing bowl, stir together about 3 cups of flour, the salt, sugar, soda, and yeast. (That's right: the quick-rising dry yeast goes in dry with the flour.) Add the hot milk/water all at once and beat until mixed. Add the remaining flour slowly, but you should NOT have regular bread dough: the results should be something like a stiff batter. I use the lesser amount of flour.

"Pour" immediately into the prepared bread pans and dust tops with cornmeal. Cover with a light, dry cloth and let rise until almost double in bulk (about 20 minutes for quick-rising yeast; twice that for regular yeast). Bake in a fully preheated oven for 25 minutes. IMMEDIATELY remove from pans and let cool on a rack. If you slice while hot, cover the cut end immediately with foil in order to prevent a gummy core.Freezes well; makes terrific toast; tastes great with cream cheese and/or jam.

Posted by HappySlob :: 7:20 PM :: 0 comments

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