Chocolate Chip Banana Brunch Bars - Bake & Share Your Favorite Recipes to WIN

Want to impress your holiday brunch guests?  Try one of our family Favorite recipes using Nestle Toll House Morsels.  Perfect for serving at your next Holiday brunch - be sure to have the recipe ready to hand out YOU will be asked for it I promise as your guests will be addicted.

Chocolate Chip  Banana Brunch Bars

Cake Ingredients

½ c butter ( softened)

1 ½  sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp  vanilla

2 c flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp salt

½ tsp baking soda

1 tsp cinnamon

1/8 tsp all spice

1 c mashed ripe bananas

½ c milk

2 c Nestle Toll House Morsels

Cream butter and sugar.  Add eggs one at a time.  Add vanilla.  Mix flour, baking powder, salt baking soda, cinnamon, and all-spice.  Alternate wet and dry ingredients while mixing.  

In separate bowl mash bananas and milk then add to above mixture.  Then hand stir in the Nestle Toll House Morsels.

Spread in a 15 x 10 greased pan or Jelly roll pan.  Bake at 350 degrees for 20-30 minutes

Cool and spread or drizzle on glaze.( recipe below)

Glaze Ingredients

 ¼ c butter

1 ½ c powder sugar

1 tsp vanilla

2-3 TBSP  boiling water

Mix and drizzle onto bars – let set to dry

For nut lovers:  Add chopped walnuts.  You can even do this for half the cake for those non-nut lovers.


Do you have a family favorite Nestle Toll House Morsels recipe?  Show it off when you enter the Bake and Share Holiday Treat Contest and WIN big.

- First Prize $5,000   - Second Prize $2,500 - Third Prize $1,000       It's simple to enter just head over  to  the Bake and Share Holiday Treat Contest Facebook page then get baking.  The contest ends December 8, 2011 @ 11pm (EDT). Click here for full details.

Fun Filled Omega 3 DHA Crepes

When your kids begin to tell you they need and want more Omega 3 in their diet you know it’s time as a mom to search for creative ways to incorporate Omega 3 into their diet. Yes that’s me the mom who was told by her 9 year old that he needed more Omega 3 in his diet for his heart and brain.

With a variety of eaters in our home I have discovered that my daughters crepe recipe is a perfect way to get extra Omega 3 into our diets.  Her crepe recipe calls for both eggs and milk and by using Horizon brand you will be including Omega 3 DHA in your crepes.  An your family can  even choose to fill their crepes with fillers that contain Omega 3 as well. (see list below).

Crepes are easier then you think to make and your entire family will enjoy filling and eating them while getting a good dose of Omega 3 DHA.

Savannah’s Crepes
5 eggs (Horizon brand with Omega 3 DHA)
1 2/3 cups milk (Horizon brand with Omega 3 DH)
2  ½ tablespoons butter, melted
1  ¼ cup all purpose flour
2 ½ tablespoons whit sugar
½ teaspoon salt

Mix all ingredients in a blender.  Pour desired amount in a prepared stove top frying pan (prepared with melted butter) .  Allow batter to cover entire pan to create a large round crepe. Once fully cooked on one side flip it over to finish cooling opposite side.

Remove from pan fill center or crepe with assorted fillings and roll crepe style and enjoy.

Omega 3  crepe filling ideas:
Broccoli
Spinach
Strawberries
Raspberries
Blackberries
Walnuts
Salmon
Tuna
Shrimp

Are you wondering what the BIG deal about Omega 3 DHA is? 

What is DHA?

Omega-3’s, also known as “good fats”, are a group of essential fatty acids. There are 3 types of omega-3’s: ALA, EPA and DHA. DHA is considered to be one of the most important of the Omega-3’s.  It is a major structural fat in the brain and eyes, accounting for up to 97% of the omega-3 fats in the brain and up to 93% of the omega-3 fats in the retina.  Scientists agree that DHA consumed in the diet can become available to support brain, eye and heart health.

Why is DHA important for your kids?
While all Omega-3’s are important, research tells us that DHA may offer the greatest number of distinct health benefits. It has been widely studied for its impact on brain and visual functioning and its role in supporting heart health.

How much DHA is recommended?
·       DHA is found primarily in fatty fish, and many Americans, especially kids, don’t get enough of these foods to get the recommended amount of DHA in their diets.
·       160 mg of DHA a day is recommended by leading health authorities for the general population. However, the average American consumes only 60-80 mg per day.
·       Children often have even lower intake – children ages 1-6 years old were shown to have an average DHA intake of 20 mg/day.

Now - Share how you sneak Omega-3’s into your family’s diet for a chance to win a $500 Grocery Shopping Spree!

DHA belongs to a category of healthy fatty acids known as Omega-3's. DHA is a major structural fat in the body, and has been shown to support brain, heart and eye health. Not only is DHA found in foods like salmon and eggs, but it can also be found in Horizon® Organic Milk enhanced with DHA Omega-3. Learn more about Horizon’s commitment to healthy families at http://www.horizondairy.com/everyday-nutrition/dha-omega-3/

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Horizon.  The opinions expressed by me do not necessarily reflect the view of the Horizon Organic brand.

Cute and Edible Acorn Donut Holes

My kids enjoy donut holes as much as I do - what a fun surprise it would be to make these simple and fun Fall acorn donut hole treats this Fall.  Let your kids help you make a batch to eat as a  breakfast treat or bring to their classrooms during a fall celebration. Click here to get the complete how to instructions from Come Together Kid.

4 Delicious Apple Recipes For Fall

Apple pie, apple cobbler, apple muffins, apple cider  and just simple plain apples remind us that fall has arrived.  Get in the Fall apple spirit and try out one of these Pillsbury apple recipes on your family this fall.

 Apple Slab Pie
Treat your family or guests to this apple slab pie made using Pillsbury® pie crusts - a simple and flavorful dessert.  Click here for complete recipe and how to make from Pillsbury.


 
Apple Pie Pops
Looking for a tasty dessert? Then check out these delicious apple pie pops made using Pillsbury® refrigerated pie crust and drizzled with glaze. Click here for complete recipe and how to from Pillsbury.

Carmel Apple Marshmallow Tarts
 Apple pie you can pick up with your fingers! These fold-over-style pockets drew attention at a state fair pie contest and are delicious warm or cool.  Click here for complete recipe and how to from Pillsbury.

Apple Walnut Sticky Buns
Popular television chef Sandra Lee developed this easy five-ingredient recipe that gets a quick start from Pillsbury® refrigerated cinnamon rolls.  Click here for Sandra Lee's complete recipe and how to instructions.



Do you have a fall apple recipe that your family enjoys?

Push Pop Cinnamon Rolls

Tip Junkie came up with a A fun way to serve a batch of ready to bake cinnamon rolls that is sure to put smiles on your families faces as they arrive at the breakfast table or are in need of an on-the go breakfast as they head at the door.  These would also be great to serve at an upcoming family celebration.  Click here for Tip Junkies complete how to instructions.

Apple Fritters With Bisquick

Just take one look at this picture and you will be running for your big yellow box of Bisquick to make sure you have at least 2 cups left in your box so that you can make thees amazing Apple Fritters this fall on a chilly morning. 

Click here for full recipe.

Do you have a favorite Bisquick recipe - share it with us be emailing trisha@247moms.com.

Freezer Egg Muffin Sandwich

Do your children enjoy those fast food muffin egg sandwiches?  Use this simple recipe from  Real Mom Kitchen to fill your freezer with on the go Egg Muffin sandwich's and save money.   Click here to read more from Real Mom Kitchen.

Freezer Egg and Muffin Sandwiches

12 English Muffins, toasted
1 Dozen Eggs, scrambled (I use a big electric skillet for this)
6 American Cheese Slices, halved
12 Deli Ham Slices

Scramble eggs; while eggs are cooking, split and toast muffins. (I cooked my eggs more like an omelet and then cut them into 12 squares) Once eggs are cooked, set up an assembly line of muffins, eggs, cheese, ham; assemble and allow time to cool, then wrap in plastic wrap. Freeze wrapped egg sandwiches in freezer bags or freezer boxes. I used a gallon size freezer bag to hold 4 sandwiches, these bad can be reused for each time I make them. Makes 12. To heat: wrap in a paper towel and microwave for 45-65 seconds. Be careful it will be nice and hot.

Muffins- Baking and Freezing How To's

Muffins make a great quick and easy breakfast when running late or for busy mornings.  You can make a variety of muffin flavors ahead and freeze them with this basic muffin mix recipe from Hillbilly Housewife.  One of my recent favorite muffins to make is using fresh raspberries - a definite gobble up muffin for my kids.


Basic Muffin Mix

• 2 C all purpose flour
• 1/3 C sugar
• 1 T baking powder
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 C canola oil
• 2 egg whites
• 1 C skim milk (from milk powder is fine)

Place the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a large mixing bowl.

Blend all the ingredients together well.

In a separate bowl blend the oil, egg whites and milk until blended completely together.

Pour into the dry mixture.

Mix just until everything is moistened.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Prepare a muffin tin with a non stick cooking spray.

Fill each muffin cup 2/3 full of batter.

Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a couple of muffins comes out clean.

This is just a basic muffin recipe. You can anything you like to make these your own special muffins
choose from the below list of ideas and get baking and freezing muffins for your family.

• Blueberry
• Raspberries
• Apples and Walnuts
• Bananas and Nus 
• Blackberries
• Apples
• Apple and Pear
• Pumpkin
• Pumpkin and  Chocolate Chip
• Zucchini
• Zucchini and  Chocolate Chip
• Cranberry
• Oatmeal (reduce flour to 1 1/3 cup and add 3/4 cup rolled oats)
• Cheese (add 1/2 cup shredded cheese)

How To freeze Muffins - Hillbilly Housewife share two different ways one is freezing cooked muffins the other is freezing the muffin batter to bake your muffins later.  Click here for Hillbilly Housewife how to freeze muffins directions.

Freezer French Toast Sticks

Today's Breakfast feed the freezer meal is make ahead Freezer French Toast sticks they are handy to have on hand as not only are they  a quick at home breakfast but easily can be eaten on the go.

You can easily make a batch for your freezer with Taste of Home yummy recipe.  Click here for Taste of Home complete  recipe and how to freeze.

DIY Frozen Pancakes and Waffles

Today's Breakfast feed the freezer meal is DIY Frozen Pancakes and Waffles that you can easily create and freeze to simplify that morning madness in your home.

DIY Freezer Pancakes and Waffles

1. Make pancakes and/or waffles according to your box or recipe directions.  Leave pancakes and/or waffles to cool completely. ( We are a Bisquick pancake and waffle making family)
2. Place a sheet of wax or parchment paper in  a cookie sheet
3. Place the cooled pancakes and/or waffles on to the cookie sheet making  - do not allow them to touch each other.
4. If freezing  multiple  layers of pancakes and/or waffles, place another sheet of wax or parchment paper  to separate the layers.
5. Place the filled cookie sheet into your freezer. For about 4 to 5 hours allowing the pancakes and/or waffles to freeze .
6. When the pancakes and/or waffles are completely frozen, place them in a zip loc freezer bags or freezer-safe containers.
7. Be sure to mark the container/bag with date and contents using a permanent marker or freezer tape.

How to Reheat Pancakes and Waffles:

Oven re-heating:
Preheat oven or toaster oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet or toaster oven tray with foil or parchment paper. Place  the  number of pancakes  needed on to  cookie sheet and cover with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until they are no longer frozen and heated to desired temperature.

Microwave re-heating:
Place pancakes on to a microwave safe plate and heat on high for 1 ½ – 2 minutes or until the pancakes are  no longer frozen and are heated through. ( this does create waffles to be a little soggy)

Toaster re-heating:

Place frozen pancakes and/or waffles into toaster and toast as you would a piece of toast. You may need to toast a second time if they are not  done to your likeness.

Top with butter, syrup, jams or peanut butter. Enjoy!

Breakfast Burrito - Freezer Meal

When we think of feeding our freezer full of meals we often think of dinner meals. What about breakfast meals, could we possibly simplify the morning madness with ready to cook breakfast meals in our freezers?

This week we will share a daily Breakfast feed the freezer meal that you can easily create and freeze to simplify the morning madness in your home.

Today's featured recipe is Breakfast Burritos from Mom on Timeout 
a burrito filled with eggs, potatoes, cheese and meats that will fill those hungry morning tummy's from freezer to tummy in 3 minutes.

Click here for full recipe and how to create this freezer breakfast meal.

On The Go Breakfast Ideas

We all know and have head it over and over again that "Breakfast jump-starts the brain and keeps us alert throughout the morning". As a mom of 5 kids who often have various school starting times each morning I know how crazy trying to get breakfast into each childs tummy can be especially when they are racing out the door to make it to school on time and don't have time to eat.  End the skipping breakfast days in your home with these simple and tasty On The Go Breakfast ideas:

 

 Keep on hand grab and go items:

Juice Boxes

Fruit - Bananas, apples, grapes ( have fruit washed and bagged up ready to grab).

Yogurt - stir in granola and fruit.

Peanut butter and jelly sandwich with slices of banana

Granola bars.

Hard Boiled eggs.

Bagels with cream cheese.

Muffins or quick breads.

Scrambled eggs stuffed in a pita with toppings ( cheese, crumbled bacon, salsa etc.)

Homemade waffles and pancakes ( made ahead and placed in the freezer.  Re-heat in microwave or toaster).

Sweet breakfast wraps (banana, peanut butter and honey wrapped in a tortilla or cream cheese and fresh slices of fruit).


Here are two simple recipes that your kids will enjoy:

Kicked-Up Quesadilla
from Parenting.com

These healthy quesadillas get a bright, fresh kick from the addition of tangy Granny Smith apples. Prepped and ready in less than 5 minutes, it's the perfect meal to munch as you head out to the car.



What you need:
2 flour tortillas (regular or whole-wheat)
1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar
several thin slices of a Granny Smith apple
Sprinkle an even layer of cheese over one tortilla. Scatter the apple slices on top of the cheese and top with the remaining tortilla. Microwave for 30 seconds or until the cheese melts. For a crisper tortilla, use a large skillet and crisp for 1-2 minutes on both sides, until the cheese is melted. Cut into 6-8 wedges.

Pop-Toast
from Parenting.com

Those sugary ready-made pastries are fun to eat fresh from the toaster. This homemade version is nearly as quick -- but with less sugar and no artificial colors or flavors. The sky's the limit when it comes to imagining taste combinations. You could make a different pop-toast every morning.

What you need:
2 pieces of whole wheat bread
1 tsp butter, softened
1-1/2 Tbsp. jam
Lightly butter both pieces of bread. Spread the jam over the butter onto just one piece of bread leaving 1/2 inch border around the edges. Top with the remaining slice of bread. Cut off the crust and seal the two pieces of bread together using the tines of a fork. Slide into the toaster; then *pop*, breakfast is ready.
Optional: Add thinly sliced fresh fruit such as bananas or strawberries for a fresh flavor. Try adding peanut butter or cream cheese for an added boost of protein. Chocolate fiends could even try a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread instead of butter

Wake-Up Breakfast Message

Start the morning off with a encouraging and fun message by using scrabble pieces and holders.  I saw this idea over at The Frugal Girls being used to leave love notes for your husband but I thought another great idea would be to have one for each family member and use them as their Wake-up breakfast messages placed at each family members breakfast seat.

Waking up to a fun or sweet message will start the day off with a positive attitude.

So now I'm on the hunt at my local thrift stores for used Scrabble games to use each morning when my children arrive at their breakfast seats.

Free Breakfast Fun Printables

Make Breakfast time fun with these two free prinatbles

Breakfast Fun - Download and print these fun pancake activity place mats from Betty Crocker. Click here to get your table setting fun.

Breakfast Puzzle Fun - Print out these fun Pancake theme printable puzzles. Click here to begin the fun.

Frugal Breakfast Tips

Amy Hannold, 247Moms Frugal Living Editor

Choosing to eat a breakfast of wholesome, affordable ingredients is good for your health and your finances. Eating breakfast will help you avoid drive-through and take-out snacking later in the day. When you fuel up before heading out, you’ll be thinking more clearly; better able to make good decisions and work effectively. Good food choices will contribute to better health over the course of your life, possibly saving you costly medical expenses.

September is “Better Breakfast Month”. Explore recipes which include protein-rich, energy-packed food choices such as eggs, oatmeal, fresh fruit, beans, peanut butter, etc.

Here are a few steps to healthier, more affordable breakfasts:

Get ready for breakfast the night before: Set your breakfast table, slice fruit, peel hardboiled eggs, grate cheese, make waffles, etc.

Discover slow-cooker breakfast delights: Your crock-pot is the tool to use for cooking breakfast while you sleep. Oatmeal, fruit cobbler and egg casseroles ready by morning will save you time as well.

Invest in some re-usable breakfast containers: Avoid buying pre-packaged food items and be ready for mobile breakfasts all week. Divide the cream cheese into individual plastic containers, store tasty dinner leftovers, and make your own bags of “cereal trail mix”.

Buy oatmeal in bulk and prepare instant-oatmeal combinations from a variety of ingredients. You’ll save money and increase the nutrition of your oatmeal breakfast. For a great recipe – and a list of flavor ideas visit: http://everythingishomemade.com/2007/09/26/instant-oatmeal-packs/.

Blend up a Delicious Smoothie: Packaged yogurt and fruit smoothies are in stores – or you can create your own. Here’s a website which will keep you smoothie-slurping a new treat every morning: http://www.smoothieweb.com/.

Family participation: Preparation of this week’s “ready-breakfasts” can be a part of your Sunday family activities. Get the whole family involved in the finding of recipes, discussion of healthy foods, and the choosing of new foods to try. Create sliced and washed fruit bags for upcoming lunches – enjoy!

Use time and energy wisely: Prepare several breakfast-burritos or homemade waffles for your freezer during one cooking session. “Heat and eat” meals will help you keep your healthy breakfast resolution intact, even when you’re short on time.

Porch Breakfast Celebration For Back To School

Porch Breakfast - Host a neighborhood Back To School breakfast on your front porch a few days prior to school beginning, to encourage kids to begin the early morning routine and re-connect before school begins again..

-  Send out invites letting everyone know the details of the porch breakfast

 - Provide easy finger foods, fruits, muffins, bagels, scones, and beverages. 

- Alternate idea is to ask your guests to bring one item to share on the Breakfast buffet.

- Use primary color paper goods and decorate with school supplies or lunch boxes.


Make it simple and enjoy connecting with your neighbors as you kick off another school year together.

Bus Stop Breakfast Celebration

Bus Stop Breakfast – Host a simple breakfast at your neighborhood  bus stop on the first day of school to celebrate the new school year.

- Deliver fliers letting everyone know to come early to the bus stop for a breakfast treat.

- Set-up a buffet table of finger foods and beverages. Such as muffins, fruit, scones,       yogurt cups, juice and milk.

- Decorate in school theme and use paper products.

- Alternative idea is to serve it out of a wagon place all foods and to go drinks in the wagon.

- Be sure to bring a garbage bag and wet wipes to clean up any spills.

Fathers Day Breakfast in Bed

By Leslie Pleasants
Treat your husband to something special!  Have your children help.  Make the shopping list and go to the store together.  Have your kids help gather the items needed to make his breakfast. Now, let them help you make him that fabulous breakfast in bed! Let them write little notes to him or write "I love you Daddy" on the napkin.  Instead of a little vase of a flower maybe go unique with a vase and a cigar or screwdriver.  :)  Make it manly.

Here are some breakfast ideas for you to make that will sure make a smile on his face!  All these recipes were taken from my favorite website allrecipes.com and they were the top rated recipes (so you know they got to be good!!)  :)

Banana Crumb Muffins
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 bananas, mashed

3/4 cup white sugar

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/3 cup butter, melted

1/3 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter

 Directions
1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease 10 muffin cups, or line with muffin papers.

2.In a large bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, beat together bananas, sugar, egg and melted butter. Stir the banana mixture into the flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.

3.In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour and cinnamon. Cut in 1 tablespoon butter until mixture resembles coarse cornmeal. Sprinkle topping over muffins.

4.Bake in preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean.


Clone of a Cinnabon
Ingredients
1 cup warm milk (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
2 eggs, room temperature
1/3 cup margarine, melted

4 1/2 cups bread flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup white sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons bread machine yeast

1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1/3 cup butter, softened

1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon salt

Directions
1.Place ingredients in the pan of the bread machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Select dough cycle; press Start.

2.After the dough has doubled in size turn it out onto a lightly floured surface, cover and let rest for 10 minutes. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon.

3.Roll dough into a 16x21 inch rectangle. Spread dough with 1/3 cup butter and sprinkle evenly with sugar/cinnamon mixture. Roll up dough and cut into 12 rolls. Place rolls in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover and let rise until nearly doubled, about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

4.Bake rolls in preheated oven until golden brown, about 15 minutes. While rolls are baking, beat together cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract and salt. Spread frosting on warm rolls before serving.

Fluffy Pancakes
Ingredients
3/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
2 tablespoons butter, melted
cooking spray

Directions
1.Combine milk with vinegar in a medium bowl and set aside for 5 minutes to "sour".

2.Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk egg and butter into "soured" milk. Pour the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and whisk until lumps are gone.

3.Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and coat with cooking spray. Pour 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet, and cook until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip with a spatula, and cook until browned on the other side.

Cheesy Ham and Hash Brown Casserole
Ingredients
1 (32 ounce) package frozen hash brown potatoes

8 ounces cooked, diced ham
2 (10.75 ounce) cans condensed cream of potato soup
1 (16 ounce) container sour cream
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese

Directions
1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2.In a large bowl, mix hash browns, ham, cream of potato soup, sour cream, and Cheddar cheese. Spread evenly into prepared dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

3.Bake 1 hour in the preheated oven, or until bubbly and lightly brown. Serve immediately.

Easy Bacon and Cheese Quiche
Ingredients
1 (3 ounce) can bacon bits

1/2 cup chopped onion

5 ounces shredded Swiss cheese
3 ounces grated Parmesan cheese
1 (9 inch) deep dish frozen pie crust
4 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup half-and-half cream

Directions
1.Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

2.In a medium bowl, mix the bacon, onions, and both cheeses. Place this mixture in the unthawed pie crust.

3.Mix the eggs and half and half in a bowl. Pour the egg mixture over the cheese mixture.

4.Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and bake for an additional 35 minutes, until top of quiche begins to turn brown.

French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
5 cups bread cubes
4 eggs
1 1/2 cups milk
1/4 cup white sugar, divided
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon margarine, softened
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions
1.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly butter an 8x8 inch baking pan.

2.Line bottom of pan with bread cubes. In a large bowl, beat together eggs, milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, salt and vanilla. pour egg mixture over bread. Dot with margarine; let stand for 10 minutes.

3.Combine remaining 2 tablespoons sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and sprinkle over the top. Bake in preheated oven about 45 to 50 minutes, until top is golden.

Whole Grain Waffles 
Ingredients
2 eggs, beaten
1 3/4 cups skim milk
1/4 cup canola oil

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 cup flax seed meal
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions
1.In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, applesauce, and vanilla. Beat in whole wheat pastry flour, flax seed meal, wheat germ, all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until batter is smooth.

2.Preheat a waffle iron, and coat with cooking spray. Pour batter into waffle iron in batches, and cook until crisp and golden brown.

Chocolate Brunch For Mothers Day

 Chocolate Hazelnut and Banana Crepe
from Martha Stewart

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour, (spooned and leveled)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Filling

• 2 tablespoons chocolate-hazelnut spread, such as Nutella
• 1/2 banana, thinly sliced

Directions

1. In a blender, combine flour, sugar, salt, milk, eggs, and butter.
   
2. Puree until mixture is smooth and bubbles form on top, about 30 seconds. Let batter sit at least 15 minutes at room temperature (or refrigerate in an airtight container, up to 1 day; whisk before using).
   
3. Heat a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium. Lightly coat with butter. Add 1/3 cup batter and swirl to completely cover bottom of skillet. Cook until underside of crepe is golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes.
   
4. Loosen edge of crepe with a rubber spatula, then with your fingertips, quickly flip. Cook 1 minute more. Slide crepe out of skillet and repeat with remaining batter. (Coat pan with butter as needed.)
   
   5.  After flipping a crepe in the skillet, top with chocolate-hazelnut spread and banana. Cook until spread melts, about 1 minute. Fold into quarters.
   

 Chocolate Chip Scones
from:All Recipes

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/2 cup miniature semisweet chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons orange juice

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. With a pastry blender or a large fork, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chocolate chips. Mix in the orange juice to form a dough.
3. Turn out the dough on a floured surface. Pat or roll into a 9 inch circle about 1/2 inch thick. With a 2 1/2 inch fluted biscuit cutter, cut out 12 scones, pushing the dough scraps together for the last few, if necessary. Transfer the scones to the baking sheet.
4. Bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 12 minutes. Move to wire racks to cool.

 

Chocolate Waffles
from Nestle

Ingredients

* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 3/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (6 ounces) NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
* 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter or margarine
* 1 1/2 cups milk
* 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
* Toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, sifted powdered sugar, fresh fruit, ice cream

Directions

COMBINE flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in large bowl.

MICROWAVE morsels and butter in medium, uncovered, microwave-safe bowl on HIGH (100%) power for 1 minute; STIR. The morsels may retain some of their original shape. If necessary, microwave at additional 10- to 15-second intervals, stirring just until melted. Cool to room temperature. Stir in milk, eggs and vanilla extract. Add chocolate mixture to flour mixture; stir (batter will be thick).

COOK in Belgian waffle maker* according to manufacturer's directions. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

* Can also be cooked in standard waffle maker (makes about 20 standard-size waffle squares).




Simple Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
from: Trisha Novotny

• 16 ounces milk chocolate chips and brand
  
• 2 tablespoons shortening
• 1 container fresh strawberries with leaves
• Box of tooth picks

Directions

1. Insert toothpicks into the tops of the strawberries.
2. Pour chocolate chips into microwaveable dish - I use 1/2 a bag at a time.
   
3. Place bowl in microwave for 30 seconds at a time on high. stirring each 30 seconds until melted ( be careful to NOT over cook)
4. Dip strawberries into melted chocolate covering all sides of it.
   
5. Turn the strawberries upside down and insert the toothpick into styrofoam for the chocolate to cool or place on a sheet of wax paper.

Chcolate Brunch French Toast
From: Nestle

Ingredients

1 cup NESTLÉ NESQUIK Refrigerated Ready-to-Drink Chocolate Milk
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons butter or margarine
8 slices white or French bread
Powdered sugar (optional)
Sweetened whipped cream (optional)
Grated chocolate (optional) 
Fresh raspberries (optional)

Directions

WHISK together Nesquik and eggs in medium bowl.

MELT butter in large, nonstick skillet over medium heat. Dip bread into Nesquik mixture to coat evenly. Cook bread on each side for about 3 minutes or until cooked through. Dust with powdered sugar. Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate and raspberries 

MORE Chocolate FUN ideas:
- Serve a Chocolate fondue click here for fondue ideas and recipes
- Serve Nutella with toast or plain doughnuts, scones. biscuits or pancakes
- Create a Hot chocolate buffet/bar. Click here for ideas and recipes

Decoration Ideas:
- Use Color theme of Brown and pink from the table cloth to the dishes.
- Add chocolate fragrant candles
- Use mini chocolate candies ( kisses, sees candies, M& M's) for confetti all over the table
- Create a chocolate centerpiece using a pink anted pot filled with candy bar Flowers ( glue candy bars to sticks and arrange)
- Use chocolate dipped spoons for the hot chocolate
- The ideas are endless just think Chocolate, brown and pink.

1/2 Dozen Left Over Easter Ham Recipes

Cheddar Ham Soup Recipe

From Taste of Home

Ingredients

• 2 cups diced peeled potatoes
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup sliced carrot
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1-1/2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed

Directions

• In a large saucepan, combine the potatoes, water, carrot and onion. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and cook for 10-15 minutes or until tender.
• Meanwhile, in another saucepan, melt butter. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add the milk, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in cheese until melted. Stir into undrained potato mixture. Add ham and peas; heat through. Yield: 7 servings.

After-Holiday Ham on Biscuits

From Taste Of Home

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons cold butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• 
  CREAM SAUCE:
• 1 cup cubed fully cooked ham
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1-3/4 cups milk
• 3 hard-cooked eggs, chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley

Directions

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk just until moistened. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead 8-10 times.
• Pat or roll out to 1/2-in. thickness; cut with a floured 2-1/2-in. biscuit cutter. Place 2 in. apart on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 425° for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
• Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute ham and onion in butter for 3-4 minutes or until onion is crisp-tender. Stir in the bouillon, Worcestershire sauce and pepper. Combine flour and milk until smooth; gradually stir into pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Gently stir in eggs and parsley.
• Split warm biscuits in half horizontally; top with ham mixture. Yield: 4 servings.

Ham and Cheese Crescents

from: Pillsbury 


INGREDIENTS

1	can (8 oz) Pillsbury® refrigerated crescent dinner rolls
8	thin slices cooked ham (8 oz)
4	thin slices Cheddar cheese (4 oz), each cut into 4 strips

DIRECTIONS

1.	Heat oven to 350°F. Separate dough into 8 triangles. Place 1 piece of ham on each triangle; place 2 strips of cheese down center of ham. Fold in edges of ham to match shape of dough triangle.
2.	Roll up each crescent, ending at tip of triangle. Place with tips down on ungreased cookie sheet.
3.	Bake 15 to 19 minutes or until golden brown. Immediately remove from cookie sheet. Serve warm.

Cobb salad ham roll-ups

From: PorkBeInspired.com

Ingredients:
8-12 slices ham, thinly sliced
2 slices bacon, crisp-cooked, drained, crumbled
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
2 eggs, hard-cooked, chopped
1/2 small avocado, chopped
1 Roma tomato, seeded and chopped
2 ounces blue cheese, crumbled
Leaf lettuce or romaine

Directions:
Combine mayonnaise and mustard in bowl. Fold in eggs, avocado, tomato, blue cheese and bacon until combined. Set aside.
Layer each ham slice with lettuce. Place a heaping tablespoon of the egg mixture at one end of each slice. Starting at the end with the filling, roll up each slice. Secure with a wooden pick. Yield: 4 servings.
Approximate values per serving: 364 calories, 25 grams protein, 27 grams fat, 1621 milligrams sodium, 167 milligrams cholesterol, 7 grams saturated fat, 5 grams carbohydrates, 2 grams fiber.
Source: PorkBeInspired.com

Ham & Swiss Hash Brown Bake

By:CARNATION MILKS

Ingredients

• 1 bag (16 oz.) or 4 1/2 cups frozen, shredded hash brown potatoes
• 2 cups (about 8 oz.) cooked ham, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 can (12 fl. oz.) NESTLÉ® CARNATION® Evaporated Milk
• 1 can (10 oz.) condensed reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed, squeezed of moisture
• 1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Swiss cheese

Directions

PREHEAT oven to 400º F. Grease 2 1/2- to 3-quart casserole dish.

COMBINE potatoes, ham, evaporated milk, soup, mustard and pepper in large bowl. Pour half of potato mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with spinach and top top with remaining potato mixture. Sprinkle with cheese.

BAKE for 40 to 45 minutes or until heated through and lightly browned. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.

TIP:
• This versatile dish is great with many types of meats you may already have in your fridge. Try using chopped turkey or chicken instead of ham.

Ham and Cheese Muffins

from: Betty Crocker

Directions:

2	eggs
3	cups Original Bisquick® mix
1	cup milk
3	tablespoons vegetable oil
1	package (4 ounces) shredded Cheddar cheese (1 cup)
3/4	cup chopped fully cooked ham (1/4 pound)

Instructions:

1. 1 Heat oven to 400°F. Spray bottoms and sides of 12 regular-size muffin cups with cooking spray. (Spray will work better than greasing or using paper muffin liners.)
2. 2 Beat eggs slightly in medium bowl with fork. Stir in Bisquick mix, milk and oil just until moistened. Stir in 3/4 cup of the cheese and the ham. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup cheese evenly over tops of muffins.
3. 3 Bake 18 to 20 minutes or until light golden brown. Immediately remove from pan. Serve warm. Wrap and refrigerate any remaining muffins.