Archives for February 2014

Eggs in a Bagel

February 28, 2014 · by · Leave a Comment

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The other day I shared on my personal FB page that I had made “Eggs in a Nest” for the kiddos. One of my friends mentioned that she made the same thing, but with bagels! By golly-how convenient- they already have holes! So, I had to try it her way. I added some cream cheese to the top half of the bagel and made them into sandwiches. Needless to say, they were a hit.

Seriously. So good.  

GF option: Use  Udi’s GF bagels. 

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Start off by heating a skillet on medium-high heat.  Melt butter and place both side of your bagels onto the skillet.  Crack and egg and place it in the bottom halves of each bagel. Let cook for approximately 2 minutes. Add salt and pepper. Flip.   

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Let cook on the other side until done.  

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Add cream cheese to the top sides of each bagel. 

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Place on top of the egg slices….Mmmm……

Eggs in a Bagel
 
Author: Janelle Nehrenz
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 4 bagels
  • 4 eggs
  • cream cheese
  • butter
  • salt and pepper
Instructions
  1. Pre-heat skillet to medium-high heat.
  2. Add butter.
  3. Place both sides of the bagels on the skillet.
  4. Add an egg into the bottom half of the bagel.
  5. Let cook for approximately 3 minutes. Salt and Pepper. Flip.
  6. Let cook for an additional 3 minutes.
  7. Add cream cheese to the other side of the bagel and combine into a sandwich. Mmmmmmmmmm
 
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Filed Under: Breads, Breakfast, Food Allergy Friendly, Uncategorized ·

Joni Eareckson- “God is never closer than when your heart is aching.”

February 27, 2014 · by · 10 Comments

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Late last night I was talking to my beloved cousin Jen (we are more like sisters than cousins…oh, I just love her). Anyways, she was telling me about her weekend spent at the Grand Ole Opry. She was working at a trade show for her company when she spotted a person whom she has greatly admired for years… Joni Eareckson. 

Now, I cannot believe I had not heard this name before, so I asked why she admired her. Then, she told me her story…

When Joni was young, she dove head first into a body of water, misjudging its depth. This caused her to become permanently paralyzed from the shoulders down.

Through this agonizing experience, she has openly shared her struggle with anger, depression, religious doubts, and suicidal thoughts. However, to God be the glory Joni began depending less on her own strength and finding strength in The Lord. 

Joni learned to paint with a paint brush in her mouth, sing, write books, and star in movies giving testimony to her life. 

Here’s a video….

As Jen and I were talking, I was so taken back by the choice this woman made for her life. Because she most certainly had a choice. She could have either let herself waste away in self-pitty, or she could have handed over her life to God and give Him glory.

I’m sure she cried out to God on many occasions to take this heavy burden away. But, He didn’t. I’m sure she wanted to give up. But she didn’t.  

Ladies, how many of us know how she feels? I know I do.  I can’t tell you how many times this bible passage from Paul has played in my mind…

“Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me—to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.  Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong. ”
~2 Corinthians 12:7-10

Joni’s pictures and singing wouldn’t speak as loudly as they do if they came from a person who’s body was capable on its own strength. This woman is special beyond words. She has a new admirer…

Whatever it is that we are going through, let us remember this woman. We are all going to face trials- it is promised. But, we have a choice. 

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Filed Under: Devotionals, Uncategorized ·

My Favorite China- Chirp by Lenox

February 25, 2014 · by · 1 Comment


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Hi Ladies! I get a lot of e-mails asking me about “my favorite things”. Typically, I respond via e-mail, but I will be sharing on here every now and again if I find something “blog-worthy”. Today, I just wanted to show  you my new favorite china pattern- it has me drooling. Isn’t it beautiful?! Better yet, it’s on sale!
 
They also have  adorable matching Christmas china! Did I mention I’m drooling? 

P.S. Ohhh, I just love birds! 


Lenox Simply Fine Chirp 4-Piece Place Setting


Lenox Simply Fine Chirp Figural Salt and Pepper Shaker Set


Lenox Chirp Print 52 by 70, Oblong, 

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Filed Under: Uncategorized ·

Sausage Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes

February 25, 2014 · by · 1 Comment

photo copy 2Sausage gravy over mashed potatoes, served with steamed veggies.

Today I got a text message from Mom asking me if the kiddos and I would like to join her for dinner at her house. Ohhh…don’t you love getting those kinds of messages?!

Ahhh…no cooking -no cleaning up-what a blessing! And best yet, as you know, my mom is also an amazing cook. Tonight was no exception…

Here’s what she made…a delicious weeknight dinner that my entire family loves. 

{Click here for my favorite Mashed Potato Recipe }
GF Option: Use GF flour 

Sausage Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
 
Author: Janelle Nehrenz
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 1 lb Bob Evan’s Sausage (bulk roll)
  • ⅓ cup flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp pepper
  • Mashed Potatoes
Instructions
  1. Cook sausage in a large skillet on medium high heat and crumble with a spatula.
  2. When sausage is cooked through, turn down heat to low.
  3. Add flour and stir to make a paste on the sausage.
  4. Add milk, salt and pepper and stir
  5. Turn heat back to medium high and stir constantly until it thickens into a gravy. (about 5 mins)
  6. Serve over Mashed Potatoes
 

Thanks for having us over, Mom!

 

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Filed Under: Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free ·

The Girl in the Corner

February 23, 2014 · by · 28 Comments

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“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ~Maya Angelou

This was a big week for me. I had a panel group interview at a local college in hopes to get accepted into their Master’s of Clinical Counseling program. It was much different than I thought it would be…in a good way. As the eight of us took seats in a circle, a Graduate Assistant began to ask us questions. The first question was, ” What type of person are you drawn towards?” ….

Immediately, my mind put a spot light on “the girl in the corner.” 

As I sit here and write this, I’m crying. You’re probably wondering why I would be drawn to this girl…she excludes herself, she isn’t joyful, she’d weigh down a light-hearted girls night out, and if I wasn’t looking…I wouldn’t even notice her. 

Why then, would I be drawn to her? 

Because I was her. 

And if I allow it, she comes knocking back on my door, wanting to push me into the corner again. 

Ladies, believe me when I tell you this. During middle school, I was picked on, made fun of, lied to, tormented, and was always the last to be chosen in gym class. I was the girl that boys would “ask out” in order to dump  the next second to see my cry. I had little confidence, a flat chest, frizzy hair, and a big nose. I was labeled “prude”, a cry baby, and told I wasn’t any fun. For those of you who went to school with me, you may not remember this time of my life, but I sure do. 

I remember talking to God  (who I knew very little about at the time) and asking him “Lord, if you could make me prettier, more outgoing, maybe a cheerleader… or just someone more than I am already, I promise to remember what it’s like to feel this way and do something good with it.” 
 
As I entered High School things did start to change and I became friends with the “popular” crowd. And although I was considered this, I felt very much a part of the outer circle of this group. It wasn’t necessarily their fault at all-  I just didn’t really feel like I “fit in” anywhere, to be honest. I had a few very close friends who were (and are) still so dear to me, but I don’t think even they knew how I felt . I did a good job pretending to fit in. Even when I got voted onto “Prom Court”, I remembered standing there wondering if people would start to “boo” at me when I stood up there with my bouquet of flowers. 

About my talk with God. 

I think God may have taken me up on my offer as a child. He didn’t really make me what I wanted…He made me who HE wanted. He didn’t give me a perfect life-he gave me a broken life, in order for His light to shine through.

Thank God, because it’s hard to tell what kind of person I would have been on my own. 

“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, caking in nothing.” – James 1:2-4

About my promise….

So, I got accepted into the program. 

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Filed Under: Uncategorized ·

Blonde Brownies

February 20, 2014 · by · 15 Comments

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Words from my dear friend, *Amy: “Janelle, these are the best things I’ve ever tasted – they are like a cloud of deliciousness. I thought I was going to bite into a chewy bar, but it wasn’t so- it was…. fluffy and….and….. cloud-like! Can I eat the entire pan?”  Bahaaa…I warned her I would quote her.
*An alias has been used to protect the reputation of this “said friend”.  
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Beat together softened butter and brown sugar. 

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Beat in eggs, milk, and vanilla. 

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Add flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. 

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Beat well until creamy. Stir in chocolate chips.  

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{Behind the scenes}

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Batter will be thick. Spread in a greased 9×13 pan and bake at 350 for 30 mins until lightly browned. 

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Mmmmm……

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Blonde Brownies
 
Author: Janelle Nehrenz
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 12
Ingredients
  • 1 cup softened butter
  • 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 Tbsp milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 12 oz chocolate chips (you may also add nuts)
Instructions
  1. Pre-heat oven to 350
  2. Cream together butter and brown sugar
  3. Beat in eggs, milk, and vanilla
  4. In a separate bowl combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add to the creamed mixture and beat well.
  5. Stir in chocolate chips.
  6. Pour into a prepared 9×13 pan and bake for 30 mins until lightly browned
 

Serve warm. Ohhh YUM. 

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Filed Under: Dessert ·

The Old, Made New!

February 16, 2014 · by · 7 Comments

Hi Ladies, I felt it would be appropriate to share with you a message that was given at my beloved church, Maranatha on this snowy Sunday morning. Good ole Pastor Bruce was preaching today. He’s a very friendly family-man who loves sports, people, and God. He also has a candid way about him…after he reads scripture (verse by verse -which I appreciate), he then gives a life metaphor to make it even more relatable.

We laugh, we cry, we pray, we ask God to search our hearts. It’s good stuff. 

Today we covered 2 Corinthians 6:17-20:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: That God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 

Then we watched this video:

I wish we could see ourselves through God’s lens.

We were all born into sin, but because he gives those {who believe} a free pass through Jesus, we are as white as the snow currently covering my front lawn. There isn’t anyone who doesn’t look beautiful covered in that blanket of pure grace. But, when we choose to allow our flesh to take over (yes, even as Christians-and I laugh as I write that), it causes us a lot of grief when we are left to deal with earthly consequences….This vicious cycle leaves us with less time to do his work that he has prepared for us to do. Theoretically, we are on the clock-wasting time. 

My prayer today is for every living soul reading right now to ask God to search their hearts. We all struggle with sin in our lives. It could be gossip, sexual sin, gluttony, dishonesty, unforgiveness, jealousy, murder… anything. We all fall so very short of his glory, don’t we? My hand is raised.  But there is so much freedom in following God’s design for our lives. Living within the walls of His perfect word is comforting and delivering. There are times when I feel like I need to figure my life out…but I can’t. I then go to the word and the answers are always there for me. 

Sin isn’t always something we can control. There are times we are effected by the sin’s of others. It’s difficult. It’s not fair. But, just as God has forgiven us, we are to forgive others. God will see us through all of this. 

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,  to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” ~Ephesians 3:20-21

 Do you have a testimony to  share? Do you have a Before and After picture of yourself?  I’d love to hear about it in the comments….

 
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Filed Under: Devotionals ·

The Most Loving Message We Can Share With Our Kids.

February 14, 2014 · by · 10 Comments

Happy Valentine’s Day Everyone!

Typically, on a day like today I would be showcasing some sort of delicious treat or endearing room mom adventure. But, instead, I wanted to share something even more special….

The Gospel told by a dad to his children in under 5 minutes.

This is the most loving thing you can share with your kids. No box of chocolates, bouquet of flowers, or card could amount to taking just 5 minuites to explain just how much God loves us and what He did for us on the cross. 

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

– Romans 5:8 

Please welcome a special guest and a dear family friend of ours, Steve Yoak. You aren’t going to want to miss how endearing it is to hear him explain the most loving message we can share with our kids. 

You are welcome to call your kiddos into the room to watch! 

Thank you so much, Steve!

Too often, we get  sidetracked by concentrating solely on rearing our children’s behavior. This is important, however it’s most important that we teach them The Gospel! What we do, how we do it, and why we do it…. all points to Him. 


Steve Yoak is an Ordained Pastor, is married to the love of his life Melissa, and is the father of 3 beautiful children. He manages his and Melissa’s Christian Counseling Practice, Dayspring Counseling, in Northeastern Ohio.

Although I make Steve my homemade macaroni and cheese, he breaks my heart by telling me he favors Kraft out of the box. Through grace alone, I remain his friend. 


His wife is one of my dearest friends! 

 

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Filed Under: Devotionals, Kiddos, Uncategorized, You Tube ·

Wedding Cake Trends in 2014 (& one of my dearest friend’s weddings)

February 12, 2014 · by · 4 Comments

This is a traditional naked cake, icing sugar dusted and decorated with strawberries and fresh roses. Absolutely beautiful!
One of 2014’s wedding cake trends: The absolutely stunning  “Naked Cake“.
 

Ahhh, I just love a wedding. The purpose, the excitement, supportive family and friends, the beautiful gowns, handsome tuxedos, laughter, tears, and delicious meals (not to mention cake!).  

Today, I have a special guest, Halee Gallagher. She’s here to tell us about what wedding cakes are “up and coming” in 2014.
Halee says:

“Close your eyes and think about weddings – your mind most likely jumps immediately to dresses, flowers and dramatic cakes with multiple layers and intricate designs. Yes, these towering desserts are the true stars of the reception, second only to the bride and groom. Just like different bridal gowns have different popular themes from one year to the next, wedding cake designs are subject to trends. Below are some details to look out for in 2014!

Metallic colored cakes were popular in 2013 and will stick around this year as well.  Some will have just one layer in a metallic color such as gold or silver, while others will feature entire, shiny exteriors. Some may choose to have metallic accents on their cake, such as fabulous gold leaves or sophisticated silver beads.  Metallic colors on wedding cakes look ultra-glamorous and are always a favorite because of their elegance; this look works well with art deco décor, as well as quirky, contemporary looks.

 A quirky trend which has been seen before is to have the wedding dress and cake mirror one another. This option is especially apt for Great Gatsby styled events, as every detail of the décor should reflect the era’s opulence. You can incorporate pearls, peacock feathers, gems, bows, fabrics and more into the motif; for inspiration, check out the vintage inspired wedding dresses of David’s Bridal and Demetrios.
mint green and copper wedding cake inspiration Green-Ombre-Wedding-Cake-with-Copper-FlowersThe elegant “Ombre Cake“

 Ombre colored cakes will be a huge hit in 2014. This particular wedding cake style showcases a bold, bright color at the base of the cake that gradually fades to very light color at the top.  Some are covered in fondant, some have a ruffled frosting look, and you might even see a plain colored cake with a trail of ombre colored flowers.  These eye-catching/fun cakes typically feature the main hue of the wedding theme, and are well-suited for summery outdoor weddings, due to the cheerful use of color.

For rustic weddings, naked cakes have become extremely popular. This particular style does not feature the traditional outer layer of frosting, instead relying upon the batter’s natural hue to create a charmingly minimalistic aesthetic. Naked cakes are typically topped with fruits, nuts, sauces or fresh flowers making it simple, yet breath taking.

rustic natural wedding cake LOVE IT fresh flowers leavesThe gorgeous “Nature Inspired Cake“

Many brides will be choosing nature-inspired wedding cakes this year.  These deserts feature elements found in the great outdoors such as twigs, leaves, birds’ nests, and pine cones, as well as ocean-themed touches like sea shells.  For an added rustic touch, the cakes are sometimes placed on a natural cut piece of tree trunk instead of the typical stand. While this specific design is obvious appropriate in an outdoor function, it can also be used to strategically bring natural charm to an indoor wedding.

Thank you so much, Halee! It looks as though 2014 will have some beautiful weddings. 

Speaking of weddings….I was recently blessed to be a part of one of my dearest friend’s. Here are some photos. Her wedding (and cake) was absolutely gorgeous too…

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A beautiful bride and beautiful gowns! 

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So beautiful…

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I was so honored to pray over their marriage. I love them both so much!!! 

*Please share this post with the love birds in your life! 

 

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Filed Under: Dessert, Uncategorized ·

EASY Sticky Rice (In the CrockPot)

February 8, 2014 · by · 32 Comments

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I’m a bit of a “rice snob”- I’m not a fan of rice in a bag, rice out of the microwave, or minute rice.

I do adore “official” sticky rice, but if you’ve ever made it you know it’s a process! Here’s a quick and easy way to make delicious sticky rice in no time at all. Just throw your rice, water and butter in a CrockPot on high heat for 2 hours and it’s done!

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You won’t want rice any other way after you try this! LOVE it.

Recipes you may enjoy with this: 

General Tso’s Chicken (Low-Fat)


Cashew Chicken 

Crispy Orange Beef with Broccoli

EASY Sticky Rice (In the CrockPot)
 
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 2 cups rice
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/4 cup butter
Instructions
  1. Place all ingredients in a CrockPot.
  2. Cover and set on high heat for 2 hours until done.
  3. When done, set on warm until ready to use.
 

 

 

 

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Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Entrees, Food Allergy Friendly, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Sides ·

Peanut Butter Rice Squares (GF and DF)

February 4, 2014 · by · 7 Comments

For the beloved allergy sufferers in your life…here’s a treat that won’t be beat! It’s gluten-free, dairy free and delicious! You and your family are going to love these. 

Disclaimer: You may want to eat the entire pan, please prepare with caution. 😉

Heat sugar and corn syrup to a boil then add peanut butter- stir until melted together.

Add rice crispy cereal

Prepare your pan with Earth Balance. My children LOVE these! 

(PB Rice Squares pictured on right) 

Peanut Butter Rice Squares (GF and DF)
 
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1 cup Karo white corn syrup
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 6 cups rice crispy cereal
  • Earth Balance or any other Dairy Free spread to prepare pan.
Instructions
  1. Pour corn syrup and sugar into a large saucepan on medium-high heat.
  2. Let boil.
  3. Add peanut butter and stir until melted.
  4. Take off of heat and add rice crispy cereal.
  5. Pour into a prepared (with Earth Balance) pan and press down with wet (washed/clean) hands.
  6. Let cool then cut.
 
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Filed Under: Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Kiddos, Uncategorized ·

Buffalo Chicken Dip

February 2, 2014 · by · 1 Comment

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It’s Super Bowl Sunday! Wohooo!!!! Here is an EXCELLENT appetizer to make for the Sport’s Fans in your life. It’s one of my family favorites….(I could eat this until I get sick).

Buffalo Chicken Dip
Author: Janelle Nehrenz
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 10
Ingredients
  • 2 cans (10 oz) Chicken Breast; drained
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup buffalo wing sauce ( I like Frank’s-adding more will increase the “heat”)
  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup of Ranch dressing
  • 3 cups freshly shredded Colby-Monterey Jack Cheese (Cheddar works well too)
  • Scoops Tortilla Chips/ Celery for dipping
Instructions
  1. Pre-heat oven to 350.
  2. Using an electric mixer, mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
  3. Place in a 9×13 pan or casserole dish.
  4. Bake, covered in foil, for 20 mins. Take foil off, continue to bake for 15 mins or until bubbly.

 

 

 

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Filed Under: Appetizers, Cooking For A Crowd · Tagged: ,

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

February 1, 2014 · by · 12 Comments

 

 

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With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you’ll want to Pin this simple recipe! It’s a great one to make and enjoy with the children (and with your “Special Someone”). 

There are a couple of tricks I share to make certain your chocolate sticks to the strawberry-please make sure to take note! 

*Naturally GF

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Place 2 cups of chocolate chips (your choice) in a microwaveable bowl. Add 2 Tbsp of vegetable oil and microwave for 1 min.  

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Take out and stir. Microwave 1 min more. 

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Rinse strawberries and pat dry. 

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Chocolate is done! The vegetable oil gives it a smooth texture….

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Dip and done! 

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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
 
Author: Janelle Nehrenz
Prep time:
Cook time:
Total time:
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
  • 1 Carton (about 15) strawberries
  • 2 Cups of chocolate chips
  • 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
  1. Place chocolate chips and oil in a microwavable bowl. Place in microwave for 1 min, stir, microwave for 1 min more and stir.
  2. Rinse strawberries and pat dry with a paper towel.
  3. Dip strawberries in chocolate. Set on serving dish and cover/refrigerate until ready to serve.
 

 Delicious! 

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Filed Under: Comfy In My Jeans, Dessert, Food Allergy Friendly, Kiddos, Learning the Basics ·