Hearty Black Bean Quesadillas

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These Black Bean Quesadillas are my go-to when I need dinner on the table fast without breaking the bank. At around $0.50 per serving, they’re loaded with protein and fiber and filling enough that even the hungriest at the table will be satisfied. The secret? Cut the cheese back just a touch, skip the fresh cilantro, and shop store-brand across the board, and suddenly a $7 recipe becomes a $5 one without losing a single thing that makes it good. Make a big batch on the weekend, stash half in the freezer, and future-you will be very grateful on a busy Tuesday night. Simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and zero complaints. That’s a weeknight win in my book!

• Author: Penny Pinchin Mom
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 10 quesadillas
• Category: Dinner

Ingredients

• 1 can black beans, drained (15 oz)
• 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained — grab whichever is cheaper)
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 taco seasoning packet (store-brand is perfect here)
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (store-brand, finely shredded melts best)
• 10 flour tortillas, 7-inch (store-brand 10-count pack)
• 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing)

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Instructions

1. Sauté the onion. Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil or butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened — this takes the harsh raw bite out and makes a noticeable difference in the finished quesadilla. Add the minced garlic and cook 30 more seconds, then remove from heat.
2. Make the filling. In a large bowl, combine the drained black beans, corn (no need to thaw if frozen), the sautéed onion and garlic, and the taco seasoning. Stir well until everything is evenly coated. Add the shredded cheddar and stir again. (Mixing in the seasoning before the cheese helps it distribute more evenly — don’t skip that order.)
3. Fill the tortillas. Lay out all 10 tortillas on a clean surface. Scoop about ½ cup of filling onto one half of each tortilla and fold into a half-moon. At this point, you can cook them right away or freeze them for later — see notes.
4. Cook until golden. Place folded quesadillas in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted. Work in batches and don’t crowd the pan, or they’ll steam instead of crisp.
5. Slice and serve. Cut each quesadilla into 2–3 wedges, starting your cut from the outer edge inward toward the fold so the filling stays put. Serve with salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce.

Notes

Freezer meal tip: Before cooking, stack the filled uncooked quesadillas with a piece of parchment paper between each one, slip them into a gallon freezer bag, and freeze up to 3 months. To reheat: microwave from frozen 30–60 seconds to thaw, then crisp in a skillet over medium-low so the cheese has time to melt before the outside burns.

Budget notes: Shop store-brand across the board and this recipe comes in right around $5 for all 10 quesadillas — about $0.50 each. Cheese is your biggest cost lever — 1½ cups gives you great melt without pushing the price up. Skip the fresh cilantro (it’s the one ingredient that costs more than it contributes), and watch for canned corn on manager’s special as a swap for frozen. Tortillas and beans are already cheap — no need to pay name-brand prices on either. If you make this regularly, mixing your own taco seasoning from pantry spices costs even less per batch.

Make it your own: No cilantro fans in your house? Leave it out entirely — the recipe doesn’t miss it. Add a can of drained green chiles for a mild kick, or a squeeze of lime juice in the filling to brighten everything up. For a heartier version, stir in a cup of cooked rice to stretch it further — great use for leftover rice from another night.

 

No raw onion complaints: Sautéing the onion first (just 3–4 minutes!) is the single biggest upgrade to this recipe. Raw onion doesn’t soften enough in the skillet, so that small extra step makes a real difference in the final texture and flavor.

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Who doesn’t love a steaming cup of hot chocolate on a chilly day? It’s a timeless favorite for both kids and adults. But what if we could take this beloved drink and turn it into something even more special and fun?

That’s exactly what I discovered while browsing the King Arthur Flour Baker’s Circle archives. Hidden among the recipes was an unusual recipe that caught my eye: Hot Chocolate on a Stick. This clever creation takes everything we love about hot chocolate and transforms it into a portable, giftable, and utterly delicious treat.

Imagine a rich, creamy chocolate confection that melts perfectly into warm milk, creating the most luxurious hot chocolate you’ve ever tasted. It’s not just a drink – it’s an experience. And the best part? You can make it right in your own kitchen, with your kids joining in on the fun. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a chance to create sweet memories together.

Ready to discover how to make this magical treat? Let’s get started!

Also see these recipes!

• Homemade Nesquick Recipe
• Copycat Starbucks Caramel Frappe Recipe
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Bon Bon Candy Recipe
• Walking Smores Recipe
• Chocolate Cake Pop Recipe

Hot Chocolate on a Stick Recipe

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• Author: Penny Pinchin Mom

Ingredients

• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (I used Nestle Toll House)
• 4 ounces bittersweet (60% cacao) baking bar (Ghirardelli’s my favorite)
• 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 28–30 lollipop sticks
• 1 ½ cups mini marshmallows or make your own. You can also get creative with crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or whatever you like!
• 1 gallon of whole milk (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Put the chocolate chips and broken-up bittersweet chocolate into a big bowl. Set aside.
2. Heat the heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan. Aim for about 120-130°F (3-4 minutes should do it).
3. Pour the hot milk mixture over your chocolate and whisk thoroughly. You want a smooth chocolate consistency.
4. Use a spoon or piping bag (or a plastic bag with the corner snipped) to fill your molds (I used a mini muffin pan, but an ice cream tray works well, too) about ¾ full. Leave room for toppings, unless you prefer them plain.
5. Place lollipop sticks right in the center of each one.
6. Add your toppings and press them in gently.
7. Now for the tough part – waiting. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight if you can resist.
8. Take two chocolate cubes on a stick and put them in a large mug (10-12 oz is perfect).
9. Heat some whole milk in the microwave for 2 – 2 ½ minutes.
10. Pour the hot milk over your chocolate cubes and stir with the stick until it’s all melted and delicious.

Notes

• When filling the molds, give the pan a little shake to even things out.
• Watch those sticks while chilling. If they start to tilt, just push them back into place.
• Get creative with toppings! Crushed candy canes, M&M’s, sprinkles, crushed Butterfinger – you name it!
• Don’t mix up evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk. Your fudge won’t set, and you’ll be disappointed.
• Store these treats in a covered container in the fridge for up to a month. But let’s be honest, they probably won’t last that long.

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Red, white, and blue mac and cheese?!!?  Yes.  Yes, it is!

Whether you are celebrating Memorial Day, July 4th or a Wednesday, it can be fun to have red, white and blue food to celebrate!    We found a way to turn a favorite dish — macaroni and cheese — patriotic!

Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have this fun red, white, and blue mac and cheese dish to serve at your picnic!  Then, finish off your meal by serving this super easy Patriotic Ice Cream cake (no baking required).

Red White and Blue Mac and Cheese

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• Author: Penny Pinchin Mom
• Prep Time: 5
• Cook Time: 10
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Cuisine: Side Dish

Ingredients

• White Cheddar Boxed Mac & Cheese
• Blue food coloring
• Red food coloring

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Instructions

1. Boil and drain noodles as usual.
2. Split noodles into 3 bowls – one third in each.
3. Add 3 – 5 drops of red food coloring to one and mix until blended.
4. Add 3 – 5 drops of blue food coloring to another bowl and and mix until blended.
5. Put all noodles back into the pan and add cheese sauce, mixing well.
6. Serve and enjoy!

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Candied Grapes….are those a real snack food? For my kids, they certainly are! If you love Sour Patch Kids candy, then you can think of these as Sour Patch Grapes. They are a super easy recipe to make, in fact, your kids can make them all by themselves. If you love any type of candied fruit, then learning how to make candied grapes is worth a try. And, you’ll never guess what I used to make the candy coating on the outside….

While they come in many different forms and flavors, a candied grape is simply a fresh grape that has been either rolled in a flavored sugar mixture or dipped in melted hard candy. These are sometimes referred to as Candy Grapes or Jello Grapes, depending on the coating used. Sometimes, these candied grapes are even frozen to add another layer to this unique eating experience.

Cotton Candy Grapes, on the other hand, are a specific variety of grape that naturally has a sweet flavor reminiscent of cotton candy. They aren’t necessarily “candied,” but their unique flavor profile makes them popular among children and adults alike.

Crack grapes, often mentioned in the same context, is another term for candied grapes. It stems from the crackling sound these grapes make when you bite into the hardened candy coating.

Recipe Variations – Candy Grapes, Jello Grapes, And More!

A simple Google search will result in quite a variety of recipes for candied grapes. Here are some options, each using different candy coating material for the grapes:

• Jello Grapes: Any flavor of regular Jello powder works well as a coating for the damp grapes to roll around in, especially those sour versions, imitating the taste of Sour Patch Kids candy. Just don’t use a sugar-free version of Jello powder.
• Jolly Rancher Grapes: Melt Jolly Rancher candies, then dip the grapes directly into the melted candy or drizzle the sugar syrup over the grapes. This coating method isn’t safe for kids due to the hot, molten sugar. Safety first, always!
• Cotton Candy Grapes: While the name may lead you to believe they’re coated in cotton candy, these grapes actually get their name from their natural flavor. However, for a twist, you can try coating these sweet grapes in your choice of candy coating for a doubly sweet treat!

DIY Cotton Candy Syrup And Granulated Sugar Coating

Another fun option is to make your own cotton candy syrup. Start by combining granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan and continue to heat the syrup until it reaches the “hard crack” stage (300 to 310 degrees Fahrenheit). You can then dip the grapes in this syrup (carefully – it’s hot!) and let them harden.

If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can test the syrup’s readiness by dropping a small amount into a bowl of ice water. If it forms a hard, brittle thread, it’s ready.

For a granulated sugar coating, you can simply roll your wet grapes in granulated sugar. This will create a sweet and crunchy exterior, similar to a sugared doughnut.

Ice Cream And Other Dessert Pairings

Candied grapes are great on their own, but why stop there? Pair them with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an elevated dessert experience. The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream balances out the sweet, crunchy grapes beautifully. You could also add them to fruit salads or use them as garnishes for other desserts.

Whether you call them candy grapes, jello grapes, cotton candy grapes, or crack grapes, one thing is certain: they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. You can use any variety of seedless grape, be it red or green, just ensure that they are firm for the best result.

Remember to experiment with different flavors such as lime and strawberry, and don’t forget to try using crushed Jolly Ranchers as an additional coating option. This fun dessert recipe is all about creativity and flavor, so don’t be afraid to mix and match to find your perfect candy grape combination. Happy snacking!

Fun Recipe For Sour Patch Kids Candy Lovers

My kids love Sour Patch Kids candy, so we make them with sour Jello powder flavors for a similar but healthier taste experience. The sour jello grape variety is a wonderful replacement for the Sour Patch Kids candy, offering a satisfying sweet-sour flavor while being relatively healthier.

Enjoy Your Candy Grapes

These candy grapes are more than just a snack, they are a fun and engaging activity for you and your kids. Plus, they are a healthier alternative to other sweet treats. So go ahead and make some candy grapes, your family will thank you!

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Candied Grapes

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• Green or red seedless grapes
• 1 box green apple or watermelon gelatin

• Author: Penny Pinchin Mom
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

1. Wash the grapes in a mesh strainer and let them drip dry.
2. Pour the Jello powder onto a plate, then roll the damp grapes in the powder until coated.
3. Place them in the fridge for one hour to allow the Jello to set, then serve cold and enjoy!

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Notes

Toothpick Trick: A little trick to make the coating process easier is to use a toothpick. Stick the toothpick into the grape and then roll it in the coating. This can help you get a more even layer of candy coating and also keep your fingers clean!

And there you have it, an easy and fun treat that your kids are sure to love. Just remember to maintain a balance with their snacks, and as always, enjoy the quality time you spend with them. After all, family is priceless. Stay frugal, folks!

The post Candied Grapes Recipe: 3 Ingredients, 10 Minutes (Addictive!) appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Candy corn bark is a simple, sweet treat you can make for any party.  I’ve seen lots of varieties of Halloween bark, but this is one which focuses on one of my favorite Halloween candies – candy corn!

What makes this treat great is how simple it is to make.  It will take just a few minutes to whip up a batch, making it the perfect last minute Halloween treat!

Make sure you check out all of our other fun Halloween recipes too!

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Candy Corn Bark

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• Author: Penny Pinchin Mom
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

• 1 bag of Yellow Melting Candies
• 1 bag of Orange Melting Candies
• Wax paper
• Candy Corn (add amount you want)

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Instructions

1. Melt the both the yellow and orange melting candies in the microwave (use separate bowls).
2. Line a cookie sheet with wax paper.
3. Spoon the melted candies into pools across the wax paper. Keep the colors separate, but touching.
4. Using a spoon, lightly mix the colors to get a tie die look.
5. Sprinkle with candy corn (as much as you would like).
6. Allow to dry and then break into chunks.
7. Serve and enjoy!

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As a mom, I love finding fun and creative ways to celebrate special occasions with my family, and it’s that time of year again when I get to make a family favorite, my Valentine’s Day cake pops!

Making this recipe with my children is a fun family activity, regardless of their age. Everyone can help make the batter, shape the cake pops and decorate them with sprinkles and toppings. Making cake pops together adds excitement to the Valentine’s Day celebration, and they are delicious treats too!

Also see:
18 super easy kid & friendly Valentine’s Day treats
Valentine’s Day Cupcake Recipe

With just a few simple ingredients and steps, anyone can create these adorable treats – so let’s get started!

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Valentine’s Day Cake Pops: An Easy And Fun Valentine’s Day Tradition

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• Author: Tracie

Ingredients

• 1 box of white cake mix (red velvet cake is popular as well)
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
• 8 ounces of softened cream cheese or frosting
• 24 Lollipop sticks
• Sprinkles, candy melts, or other decorations of your choice

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter, cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, oil, eggs, vanilla extract and water with a hand mixer until combined.
3. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 to 30 minutes (depending on your oven) or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely before making your cake pops.
4. Once cooled, crumble the cake into a large bowl. Stir in the melted butter and cream cheese frosting until fully combined. The dough should be slightly crumbly, but soft and moist.
5. Scoop out 1-2 tablespoons of the cake mixture and roll into balls in the palm of your hand or use or two spoons to shape the mixture into small cake balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter, then form them into hearts.
6. Place the balls on a lined plate or baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. To cool faster, you can also put these in the freezer.
7. Melt candy melts in the microwave according to package instructions (typically do 30-second intervals to not overcook them). Dip a lollipop stick into the melted candy or melted chocolate and insert it halfway into the cooled cake pop.
8. Dip each cake pop into the melted candy wafer and swirl around until the cake pop is fully coated. Place onto parchment paper until set. Scrape off the bottom of the cake pop on the side of the bowl to get a smooth finish by removing any excess chocolate coating.
9. Decorate with sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or other decorations of your choice before the chocolate hardens.

Also, see my easy chocolate cake pop recipe and 15 adorable Valentine’s Day crafts!

Do you freeze cake pops before dipping?

Freezing cake pops before dipping them in chocolate is optional, but it can be helpful as it enables the chocolate to set faster and will also help keep its shape. I recommend either putting them in the refrigerator or freezer to keep them from breaking apart while dipping them.

How long will cake pops last unrefrigerated?

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There is nothing that says Easter like the Marshmallow Peep®!  We created a way to create the Peep® flavor — but in a pudding!

Seriously – your kids will think that you are an absolute rock star if you make this for them!  Best of all, it is easy to make (but that will be our little secret).

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Marshmallow Peeps Pudding

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 15 mins
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

• 1 Box of French Vanilla Pudding Mix
• 1 Jar of Marshmallow Fluff
• 2 Cups Milk
• Food Coloring/Dye
• Sprinkles
• Marshmallow Peeps

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the pudding mix and the two cups of milk.
2. Mix well or until no lumps appear, and then set aside.
3. Put the Marshmallow Fluff into a saucepan.
4. Slowly heat until the fluff reaches a liquid state.
5. Quickly pour the fluff into the pudding mixture and stir immediately.
6. Add 4-5 drops of food coloring (you can make your own colors).
7. Pour into dishes and add sprinkles and a Peep!
8. Keep in mind that the French vanilla pudding will make the color appear slightly different. For example, in this picture, we actually used 4-5 drops of red dye and it turned out orange.

Notes

Keep in mind that the French vanilla pudding will make the color appear slightly different. For example, in this picture, we actually used 4-5 drops of red dye and it turned out orange.

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I love making Halloween treats!  These melting ghosts were another new one which came to me when I happened to find Cookies and Creme Striped cookies on the store shelf!

Just add a strawberry and some white almond bark to make your own fun melting ghosts! I love having the cookie act as the base, which holds the strawberry in place.  It also makes it a bit easier for little hands to hold.

Check out all of our other fun and original Halloween Treat ideas!

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Melting Ghosts Halloween Treat Idea

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 15 min
• Total Time: 15 min

Ingredients

• Cookies & Cream Striped Cookies
• Strawberries
• White almond bark
• Black icing (gel or other type)
• Waxed paper

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Instructions

1. Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper.
2. Place the cookies onto the sheet, with the white side up.
3. Cut the top off of the strawberries and place one on each cookie, pointed side up.
4. Melt 2 – 3 bars of almond bark (I do this in the microwave in 30-second increments, so it does not scorch).
5. Pour the almond bark over the top of the strawberry, so it runs down. You want it to look a bit messy.
6. Allow to set for 30 minutes.
7. Add in black eyes and a mouth.
8. Serve and enjoy!

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Skeleton bones.  It is one fun way to get creative this Halloween!!! With all of the parties that are going on, you have plenty of chances to make more than one fun treat.

This is one my kids, and I love to make together. It takes the simple idea of a pretzel rod, but in a smaller form.  Adding marshmallows turns these treats into fun little skeleton bones!

Make sure you check out our other fun Halloween ideas! And then, follow me on Pinterest for MORE Halloween inspiration!!!

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Skeleton Bones

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 15 min
• Total Time: 15 min
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

• While Almond Bark (I used 4 bricks to make the amount you see above)
• Pretzel Sticks
• Mini Marshmallows

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Instructions

1. First, place your almond bark into a microwave-safe bowl and melt (4 cubes will take around 1 min 30 sec).
2. While that is melting, break the pretzels into various sizes so that your bones are of varying lengths.
3. Push on a mini marshmallow onto each end to make your bone.
4. Once melted, cover the sticks with the bark. This is a messy (but fun) task. Be careful as the mini marshmallows sometimes fall off, but you can just put them back on.
5. Place the bones on wax paper on a cookie sheet so they can dry.
6. When dried, you can ‘break off’ the drips and over cover, and your bones will be ready to serve!

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These spider web pretzels are a fun snack idea!  My girls and I love to get into the kitchen and have fun being creative.  We were making all sorts of fun Halloween treats when I thought about this one.

It takes just two ingredients to make them.  You need to treat them a bit more delicately, as the chocolate can break off (add in a few more pretzels to yours and it will give them some stability).

Make sure you check out all of our other fun Halloween Treats and Ideas.

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Spider Web Pretzels

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 15 min
• Total Time: 15 min
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

• Chocolate Almond Bark
• Baggie
• Pretzels
• Wax Paper

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Instructions

1. Tear off a piece of waxed paper and set it on a baking sheet or another flat surface.
2. Arrange pretzels onto the paper. Make sure that all of the tops meet in the middle and spin out from there.
3. Place 2 – 3 blocks of almond bark in a bowl and microwave until melted. I would warm for 30 seconds in increments, to ensure you do not scorch it.
4. Stir chocolate until all melted and well mixed.
5. Place the baggie in a tall glass and open – wrapping the edges of the baggie. This holds it open so you can pour in the chocolate.
6. Cut off one corner of the baggie. Do not cut off too much or the chocolate will run out.
7. Place a large circle of chocolate on the center of your “web.” This will connect the pretzels together.
8. Run circles of chocolate around the pretzels, creating a web-like effect.
9. Allow cooling for 20 – 30 minutes.
10. Very carefully peel back the waxed paper.
11. Enjoy!

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Candied pretzel rods make a fun Halloween treat!  I love to make these with my girls.  They get a kick out of putting the sprinkles all over them.  Definitely a fun activity to do with the family.

Check out all of our other fun Halloween Recipes and Costume Ideas!

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CANDIED PRETZEL STICKS

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• Author: Tracie

Ingredients

• Pretzel Rods
• White Almond Bark
• Halloween Sprinkles
• Wax Paper

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Instructions

1. Rip off a sheet of wax paper and put on a cookie sheet, tray or plate.
2. Then, melt the almond bark in the microwave. I used 3 cubes to create around 8 – 10 pretzel rods.
3. Once melted, dip the pretzel rod into the bark and use a spoon to help spread it so that the rod is covered at least 1/2 way.
4. Hold the pretzel rod over a bowl and shake on the sprinkles. Rotate the rod in a circle while shaking so that you can get all sides covered equally.
5. Place the covered rods onto the wax paper to allow the almond bark to harden.
6. Enjoy!

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My kids LOVE this Halloween Treat.  In fact, it is one of my oldest daughter’s favorites!!!  Just 4 ingredients to make these fun Spider Crackers!!

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SPIDER CRACKERS

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 15 mins

Ingredients

• Ritz Crackers (2 for each spider)
• Pretzel sticks
• Raisins
• Peanut Butter (can opt for Hummus instead)

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Instructions

1. First, break the pretzels in half in order to create the legs.
2. Then, spread the peanut butter onto both crackers.
3. Lay the pretzel legs onto one of the crackers with 4 on each side, to create the legs.
4. Next, place the other cracker on top of the one with the pretzel legs.
5. Then, using some peanut butter, stick on 2 raisins to create the eyes

Notes

If your child has a peanut allergy, you can use another product such as hummus or even chocolate spread.

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Candy Corn Trail Mix is such a fun snack to make, and a perfect fall treat.  It works for your Halloween party and will even fit in on your table this Thanksgiving!

Just a word of caution – you might have to make it more than once as you’ll gobble it down!

Make sure you check out all of our other incredible Halloween recipes, tips, and ideas!!!

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Candy Corn Trail Mix

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Total Time: 5 mins
• Category: Snack

Ingredients

• One bag of Mallowcreme Pumpkin Candy Corn Mix
• One bag of dark chocolate baking morsels
• One can of cocktail peanuts

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients together.
2. Store in a large ziploc bag to keep fresh.

Notes

Make sure you store in cool place, as chocolate will melt.

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These adorable Christmas Tree Cupcakes are so easy. Really. They look difficult and will wow your guests, but you and I will know just how simple they were to make!

I promise, there’s no practice needed. You are going to love how they turn out!

Makes sure you check out all of our amazing Christmas Recipes and DIY ideas!!!

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EASY CHRISTMAS TREE CUPCAKES

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 24
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

• 1 boxed cake mix
• 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut
• 1 container of white frosting
• 1 Bag of green candy melts
• 24 mini pretzel sticks
• Mini ball sprinkles
• Wax paper

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Instructions

1. Make the cupcakes as directed.
2. While the cupcakes cool, make the Christmas trees.
3. Line a large cookie sheet with wax paper.
4. Space the 24 mini pretzel sticks about 2″ – 3″ apart on the wax paper.
5. Melt the candy melts in the microwave on full power, 30 seconds at a time. Stir with a fork and continue to melt at 30-second intervals (stirring between each time) until smooth.
6. Pour the melted candies into a large baggie (can use a piping bag with small tip if you wish)
7. Cut a very small corner off the bag.
8. Go back and forth over the pretzel sticks, starting at the bottom, to make a Christmas tree shape.
9. Finish with sprinkles.
10. Place the cookie sheet in the fridge for thirty minutes or until the melts have hardened.
11. Top the cupcakes with the frosting, and sprinkle each one with coconut.
12. Gently peel each tree from the wax paper.
13. Press the Christmas trees into the tops of the cupcakes gently.

Notes

Pro tip: If traveling with the cupcakes, take the Christmas trees in a separate container, and put them on the cupcakes once you arrive to make them easier to transport.

Also see: What to do with leftover cake

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Witches and Wizard Hats!  This is another fun sweet treat idea for any Halloween party!

You can turn this treat into a craft idea too!  Create the hats and give the kids candies and frosting and let them decorate a few of them before they gobble them on down.

Don’t forget to take a look at all of our fun Halloween treat and costume ideas.  And also follow my Halloween Treats board on Pinterest to check out even MORE fun treats!

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WITCH AND WIZARD HATS

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 5 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

• Chocolate Chips
• Hershey’s Kisses
• Keebler Fudge Striped Cookies
• Frosting (buy ready made in tubes)
• Sprinkles/candies

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Instructions

1. Melt around 1/4 – 1/2 a cup of chocolate chips. It took me around 2 minutes to get them melted when I made mine.
2. Open the kisses and then dip one into the chocolate.
3. Turn the cookie over so that you see the chocolate side and then set the kiss on top of the cookie.
4. Set it aside so that the chocolate can harden.
5. Once done, decorate with icing, candies and sprinkles.
6. Serve and enjoy!

The post Witches and Wizard Hats appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Goulish fingers are a simple treat you can make (that is a bit healthier than all of the other sweets).

These are another super easy treat that anyone can make. It takes just 3 simple ingredients to whip up a batch of these fun fingers for your next Halloween party.

Make sure you check out all of our other fun Halloween Treats!

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Ghoulish Fingers

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• Author: Tracie
• Prep Time: 5 min
• Total Time: 5 min

Ingredients

• Cheesesticks
• Red Fruit Roll-ups
• Peanut Butter (or another item to “glue” on the fingernails)

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Instructions

1. First, cut the cheesesticks so that they are finger length. You can use your own finger as a guide.
2. Next, use a knife to make the lines on the finger. Slightly bend the cheese stick so that the lines are more defined.
3. Cut fingernails out of the fruit roll-ups. You can keep it simple by cutting them into triangles.
4. “Glue” the fingernails onto the end of the cheese sticks with a dab of peanut butter (or another item to adhere the nail to the cheese).
5. You’ve just made your Goulish Fingers!

The post Ghoulish Fingers appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Whether you’re a kid or an adult, one of the best parts about camping has got to be the snacks.

When I was a kid, the only time we got to eat sugary flavors of cereal was when we were camping. I would cut into one of those small Kellogg’s boxes with such joy. Remember those? The little cereals that came in packs with Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops, and Rice Krispies (not the best one). They had the perforated lines that you would cut with a knife so you could open the box up and turn it into a semi-functioning bowl? These cereals, along with campfire smores, are the snacks that bring back real feelings of happiness and nostalgia.

12 Camping Snack Ideas for Kids

Now that I’m a mom of two little boys, I like to pack special little snacks and treats when we go camping. You know, little things that I won’t normally give my kiddos in an effort to keep them healthy and prevent a sugar rush. I want them to have the same feeling when they are older and look back on their camping adventures … some special camping snacks that immediately bring back feelings of sunshiny days and family fun. Here are some of our favorite easy camping snack ideas. 

S’mores Nachos 

If you don’t have smores when you’re camping, are you even camping? That’s the real question. Smores are an essential camping treat for our family. If you’re looking to shake up the conventional smores snack, give these campfire smores nachos a try. All of the gooey goodness of regular smores, just way easier to prepare and more fun to eat. 

Mason jar yogurt parfait

These yogurt parfaits are a good snack to prepare before you leave. You can eat them in the car on the way to your camping destination or for breakfast while you are camping. For easy storage and transport, you can construct your parfait in a mason jar. Full of fruit, granola, nuts, and yogurt, they are a healthy and delicious way to start your morning (although admittedly not as fun as those Froot Loops boxes).

Cut up veggies with homemade hummus

Looking for a plant-based protein? Look no further. This homemade hummus recipe packs a flavorful punch. Pair it with your veggies of choice, pita, or naan bread for a simple and tasty summer snack. 

Chex mix. I love chex mix

It’s one of my favorite go-to snacking foods. This chex mix recipe is crunchy, filling, and delicious. It’s also versatile as it can be baked in the oven or made in your slow-cooker. I prepare a huge batch to share with family and friends on all of our summer camping trips. 

Homemade granola bars

These no-bake granola bars are the perfect camping snack. They are easy to make, easy to store, nutritious, and delicious. This is one of my go-to recipes that I prepare before every camping trip. I promise you will never want to go back to a store-bought granola bar after you have tried these. 

Mountain trail mix 

We do not go camping without a substantial stash of mountain trail mix. This is another snack that I prepare at home before we head off on our camping adventure. It literally takes 10 minutes to prepare and is the ideal snack if you are out hiking or hanging out at the beach. 

Zucchini bread

In an effort to make sure my kids are eating enough veggies, I try to hide them in everything. I love this zucchini bread loaf because I feel good about feeding it to my kiddos. It’s got zucchini, raw walnuts, and uses maple syrup or honey in place of white sugar. This bread makes for the perfect snack but can also be served as a quick and easy breakfast option. 

Ants on a log

It’s fun, simple, and full of protein! I remember my mom making us ants on a log when we were kids and now I’m serving the same snack to my kids. With celery, peanut butter, and raisins it’s a healthy snack to serve to your family and it’s super easy to prepare when you’re camping. 

Chocolate chip cookies

If you are looking for a classic snack, you can’t go wrong with chocolate chip cookies. No, they’re not the healthiest snack out there but they are guaranteed to please. They are sweet, soft, and oh so delicious. 

Homemade popsicles

Unless you are camping with a trailer that is equipped with a freezer, these might be a tricky snack to transport. However, if you do have a trailer or some kind of portable freezer, these healthy, homemade popsicles make for a delicious summer treat. These are a good snack to serve when it’s super hot outside and they can also be served as a sweet dessert. 

No-bake energy balls

These no-bake energy balls are a family favorite. They are easy to make, compact and easy to carry in a backpack or picnic basket, and they will give you the energy boost you need when you are outside exploring. 

Homemade fruit leather 

I love this recipe for homemade fruit leather because it contains only two ingredients. Pick your favorite fruit, be it peaches, raspberries, or strawberries, add your sweetener of choice (we use maple syrup) and you have everything you need to make this healthy snack. I will warn you, the fruit leathers need to bake for a period of six to eight hours so this isn’t’ a snack you can throw together an hour before you intend to go camping. 

What are your go-to camping snacks?

If you are heading out on a camping trip, I hope this list of easy camping snack ideas has inspired your snacking menu. Over years of camping, we’ve tried and tested a vast number of snacks and these are our go-to favorites. It’s nice to have a mix of some healthy options that will keep you and your family energized throughout the day along with some sweet and delicious options to make snacking fun.

Do you have some easy camping snack ideas to add to this list? What snacks are a must-have when you and your family go camping? 

— By Jessica Martel

The post Easy Camping Snack Ideas for Kids appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

INSIDE: Looking for copycat recipes to make at home? These fan favorites from Chipotle, Cracker Barrel, Starbucks, and more are easy to make!

My family loves going out to eat. The kids are thrilled to pick whatever they want from a menu and not be limited to what Mom has made for dinner that night. (I enjoy going out to eat as well … until the bill comes!)

One way I’ve started saving money is by making my family’s favorite restaurant dishes at home. I bet your family has favorite meals to eat out, too. Now you can say goodbye to paying lots for those fabulous flavors with our list of the best copycat restaurant recipes you can make at home, for much less.

WHAT IS A COPYCAT RECIPE?

Copycat recipes to make at home are when people find a way to re-create the same soup, salad dressing or meal they love to order when eating out — but at home. It takes a lot of time, trial and error to re-create a restaurant recipe to get it to taste as close to the original as possible. Fortunately, copycat recipe chefs have done all the work for us!

COPYCAT RECIPES TO MAKE AT HOME

Here are some of our absolute FAVORITE restaurant copycat recipes that taste just like the original, including a Starbucks copycat recipe for lemon pound cake, a Cinnabon cinnamon roll recipe, an Olive Garden salad dressing recipe and a Panera broccoli cheddar cheese soup recipe. The homemade version of each is super easy to make right in your own kitchen (and lots cheaper).

Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl

Wendy’s Chili

PF Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wrap

Chick-fil-A Cookies & Cream Milkshake

Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad

Chick-fil-A’s Frozen Lemonade

Olive Garden Lemon Cream Cake

Panera Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Cheddar’s Croissant Bread Pudding

Texas Roadhouse Rolls & Butter

Cinnabon Cinnamon Rolls

Krispie Kreme Doughnuts

Chipotle Guacamole

Red Lobster Biscuits

PF Chang’s Mongolian Beef

Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Olive Garden Salad Dressing

Chick-fil-A Superfood Salad

Chipotle Corn Salsa

Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Starbucks Lemon Pound Cake

Auntie Anne’s Pretzels

Panda Express Chow Mein

KFC Original Recipe Fried Chicken

Cheesecake Factory Cheesecake 

McDonald’s French Fries

Cracker Barrel Peach Cobbler 

KFC Coleslaw

Olive Garden Breadstick 

Dairy Queen Ice Cream Cake 

Popeyes Chicken Sandwich

Mastro’s Warm Butter Cake

FINAL THOUGHTS

That’s a pretty nice list right? Definitely tons of my favorites there, and probably some of yours as well. It’s so nice to have copycat recipes to make at home because you can whip up your favorite dish any time you want without spending an arm and a leg. enjoy!

The post 33 Copycat Recipes That Will Make You Drool appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

July 4th is coming up soon!  You may be busy getting your house ready or planning a get together with your family and friends.  But, don’t forget the kids!

Kids and fireworks just don’t go together (not until they are old enough to use them safely).  But, they still want to have July 4th fun!  That means crafts!

Check out this fun and creative list of 20 July 4th crafts for kids – that they will love to make!

CREATIVE JULY 4th CRAFTS & TREATS FOR KIDS

Fun and creative Paper Sparklers from It Happens in a Blink.

Make some fun Fourth of July Shakers!!

Condo Blues has a fun way to make an Uncle Sam Top Hat Fascinator!

What a fun way to make an American Flag!!

Make a Flag Shirt to show off your American pride! (I mean, what kid does not love to dip their hands into paint?!?

Isn’t this a cute Pinwheel?  Your kids will love making one with you!!

We love these adorable Twig Ornaments!  Adorn the trees in your yard for your get together!!

Your kids will love the tunes they hear when they make Recycled Tin Can Wind Chimes!

Wouldn’t these Table Lanterns be fun once the sun goes down?

Grab the Mod Podge and make this adorable Sparkle Candy Dish!

Turn trash into treasure when you create an Upcycled Flag!

I love a pretty Sun Catcher!!

How creative are these Coffee Filter Firework Pom Poms!!?!?

Your kids will “flip” for these July 4th Flip Flops!!!

Grab a paper towel tube and make a Cardboard Bracelet!

Another fun idea — a Patriotic Windsock!

Such a pretty flag!! Find out how you can make this cute Magazine Mosaic Flag!

And what July 4th get together is complete without Watermelon!??  But, instead, make cute Watermelon Treats instead!!!

The post 20 Patriotic Kid Crafts & Treats for July 4th appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

These reindeer cookies are super easy to make! You don’t have to be a fancy decorator to have fun and make something your kids will absolutely adore.

Decorating cookies with my kids is one of my favorite holiday traditions. Unfortunately, I lack the skills and patience to make intricately decorated Christmas cookies! We made these adorable Reindeer Cookies this year and I love how simplistic and adorable they turned out! Aren’t they cute?

You’re going to love how easy it is to make these Reindeer Cookies. It doesn’t overload the cookies with icing keeping them at the perfect balance of sweetness. Even your kids can make these cute Reindeer Cookies and in no time at all!

If you are up for more holiday treats, check out these fun reindeer cupcakes and candy cane kiss thumbprint cookies.  All of these are perfect for a cookie exchange or even to leave with a glass of milk for Santa!

HOMEMADE REINDEER COOKIES

SUPPLIES

Sugar Cookies (homemade or pre-bought)
Black cookie icing (recommend Wilton)
Red chocolate candies

Bake your cookies according to the recipe or package instructions.  You’ll want them all to be circles.

Use black icing and place the red candy nose to the center of the circle.  Next, add to small dots for eyes.  The final step is to put on the antlers.  They don’t have to be perfect – so just have fun with it!!   The final step is to add a mouth.

Your kids can make all sorts of fun reindeer faces and expressions, so they get the chance to be creative and just have some fun!

The post Reindeer Cookies appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Some foods just taste like “home” to me.  Mashed potatoes are one of those items. Now that I’m older, I like to give my food a bit more flavor.  These cheesy garlic mashed potatoes do just that.

If you love garlic and you love cheese, then these are the potatoes for you!  This dish is absolutely amazing and will make your taste buds dance.   As if the blend of creamy mashed potatoes and cheese isn’t enough, there is just the right amount of garlic that takes this dish to the next level.

These aren’t your grandma’s potatoes!

I love to serve up these garlic cheese potatoes with some of our family’s favorite dishes, including oven-baked BBQ brisket and sour cream and onion chicken.  They pair perfectly with anything from chicken fried steak to pork to steak

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Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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The perfect blend of garlic and cheese, make these cheesy garlic mashed potatoes a crowd pleasing side dish.

• Author: Tracie

Ingredients

• 4–5 large Russet Potatoes
• 1 1/2 cups Cheddar Cheese
• 1/2 cup Butter
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• 1 TBSP Garlic Powder
• Salt and Pepper

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Instructions

1. Cut Russet Potatoes into large 2 x 2 inch pieces. Fill a large stockpot with water and add cut potatoes. Place on stovetop and boil until tender (about 10 minutes).
2. Drain water and return potatoes to the pot.
3. Add all ingredients and mash with a hand immersion blender until smooth.
4. Add more seasoning to taste.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and serve!

The post Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

I love fresh, summery desserts.  I recently decided to see if I couldn’t come up with my spin on fruit salsa.  While most people make homemade cinnamon crisps, I like to keep things as easy as possible.  So, I created this recipe and served mine with Stacy’s Cinnamon Pita Chips.

I’ve been making this fruit salsa recipe for years. Whenever we are invited to summer gatherings, my friends even ask that I bring it with me as it’s become a favorite for them as well.

This recipe is unbelievably simple.  It starts with your favorite fresh fruits.  I like to use kiwi, strawberries, peaches, and blackberries to make my recipe.  But, you can easily swap or add any other fruits you love. I have added apples, raspberries, nectarines and pears to mine before and it tastes just as amazing.

Since you have to do a lot of chopping (and I do mean a LOT), I don’t recommend doing it by hand.  One of my favorite go-to kitchen appliances for making my salsa is my food chopper.   It is truly one of our most used appliances. If you don’t yet have one, I recommend you buy one ASAP.

Start by peeling and washing all of the fruit you want to use.  Cut the stems off of the strawberries and then get busy cutting and chopping.  You’ll want to make sure all of the fruit you want to use is finely chopped (unless you want larger chunks of fruit in your salsa).

Once chopped, add the jam to the fruit and blend well.  Allow sitting for at least one hour in the refrigerator.  Then, serve with cinnamon pita chips for the perfect snack or dessert!

This is a healthy snack, that is packed full of flavor.  Fruit salsa will quickly become one of your favorite summer treats!

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Summer Fruit Salsa Recipe

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Fruit salsa is the perfect way to enjoy your favorite summer fruits!

• Author: Tracie

Ingredients

• 1 Pint of Strawberries
• 1 cup of Raspberries or Blackberries
• 2 Nectarines or Peaches
• 2 Kiwi
• 2 tsp. white sugar
• 1 tsp. brown sugar
• 3 Tbs. Preserves or Jam (any variety can work, but I use Blackberry Jam)

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Instructions

1. Clean and chop all fruit.  Make sure to remove pits, core and stems as necessary.
2. Mix together in a bowl.
3. Add in the sugars and stir.
4. Add the preserves or jam and stir.
5. Allow sitting for at least one hour so fruits can soften and absorb the flavors (and your preserves/jam can fully dissolve).
6. Serve with Stacy’s Pita Chips (so that you don’t have to turn on your oven and make your own).

The post Summer Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Pita Chips appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Who doesn’t love a good turkey sandwich?  They are great, but they can also be rather boring. Take your lunch up a notch by making one of these turkey pinwheel sandwiches instead.  Your taste buds will thank you.

The closer it gets to the end of the school year, the less interest I have in making school lunches.  My kids and I are both bored with the same old ham and cheese or PB&J sandwiches.  We need to take it up a notch. That led me to try to find something that they’d like, but that I’d enjoy too.

These veggie turkey pinwheels do just that!  They are a simple way to hide some of those veggies so that your kids don’t even realize they are eating them (shhhhh!!!).  It takes just a few minutes to make, but it tastes like you spent hours!

While I recommend using Flat Bread, you can swap it out for a toritilla instead.  Or, just spread this onto your favorite bread and turn it into a sandwich!

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Veggie Turkey Pinwheels Recipe

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Veggie turkey pinwheels are a simple way to turn a boring lunch into something extraordinary.

• Author: Tracie

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of grated Carrots
• 1 package of Cream Cheese
• 4 tablespoons of grated Celery
• 2 tablespoons of grated Onion
• 1/4 a teaspoon of Garlic Powder
• 1/2 cup of Cottage Cheese
• 1 tablespoon of Pickle Relish
• 1 large package of Sliced Turkey
• 2–4 Wheat Flat Bread Wraps

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Instructions

1. Mix all ingredients except, turkey and wraps in a large mixing bowl.
2. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 2 hours.
3. Lay out flat bread and place a layer of turkey on top.
4. Spread your cream cheese mixture over the top of the turkey. (Try to keep it fairly thin so that it rolls easily.)
5. Next, tightly roll your wrap up jellyroll fashion.
6. Trim the edges evenly and cut into 1 and 1/2 inch sections.
7. Serve and enjoy!

The post Veggie Turkey Pinwheels Recipe appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Valentine’s Day is another holiday that can be fun when it comes to making treats.  A simple cupcake is an easy way to say I love you.  But, you transform an ordinary cupcake into a special Valentine’s Day cupcake with a simple topper.

You won’t believe how easy these cupcakes are to make.  If you can use an oven and microwave – then you can make these cupcakes yourself!

Other simple Valentine’s Day ideas:

• 15 Adorable Kids’ Valentine’s Day Crafts
• Easy Valentine’s Day Cookies
• Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Roll Recipe
• Valentine’s Day Cake Pop Recipe
• Simple Valentine’s Day Centerpiece
• Unique Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Under $30

VALENTINE’S DAY CUPCAKES

SUPPLIES

Strawberry cake mix
Strawberry icing
Sprinkles (optional)
Red candy melts
Small plastic baggie
Wax paper

INSTRUCTIONS

Make your cupcakes as directed and ice them in any way you would like. If you want to make them look similar to what I’ve done here, put your frosting in a baggie and cut off one corner.  Squeeze the icing onto the cupcake. Add sprinkles (if you desire).Ice them with the strawberry frosting any way you like.

Next, lay out a sheet of wax paper onto a cookie sheet or cutting board. I cut a sheet that was about as long as my forearm to give me plenty of room to work.

Microwave approximately one cup of the red candy melts for 30 seconds then stir.  Continue to repeat until the the candies are completely melted and smooth.  Quickly transfer the melted candies into a small plastic baggie. Cut a very small tip off one corner.  This is your piping bag.

Draw several shapes onto the wax paper, making sure not to touch any of the designs to each other.  You can draw hearts, lips, the word “love” — anything with a Valentine’s Day theme.  Make sure your designs are not too thin, or they may snap when you try to remove them from the wax paper.

Place in the fridge for 15 – 20 minutes (so they are completely cooled and set up).  Carefully peel the wax paper off the back of each design. I find that if I peel the paper away rather than try to pull the design off, there is less chance that it will break.

Gently press them gently into the frosting of your cupcakes. The cupcakes won’t need to be refrigerated ( but don’t keep them near a heat source either).

You can use this same idea for any event – St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, Birthdays, Christmas – the list goes on and on!

The post Valentine’s Day Cupcakes appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Fun, simple and easy Valentine’s Day treats and snacks you can make for your kids this year!

As a child, Valentine’s Day was one of my favorite holidays that we got to celebrate at school. I can remember working so hard on my box and then picking which classmate got which special Valentine card.

Valentine’s Day is one of the only holidays my kids’ school actually has a party for, and they ask parents to bring a special treat. Here are some I am thinking of making this year!

Make memories with my Valentine’s Day cake pop recipe

Fun and easy Popcorn Treat!

Chocolate Covered Pretzels

Conversation Heart Fudge

Homemade Donuts

Chocolate Pretzel Bark

Heart Rice Krispies

Easy Cinnamon Rolls

Cake Mix Cookies

Pretty Patties

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Hearts

Conversation Heart Cheesecakes

Super Simple Cupcakes

S’mores Trail Mix

Yogurt Bark

Velvet Cheesecake Brownies

Oreo Truffle Hearts

Strawberry Hand Pies

The post 18 Super Easy & Kid Friendly Valentine’s Day Treats appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

I have always loved meatloaf.  And, I’m a fan of mashed potatoes.  Maybe that is why this loaded meatloaf and potato casserole is one of my favorite dishes.  It’s not only super easy to make, but the fact that it is a one pan dinner makes serving it up an absolute breeze.

Anytime I can find a way to make life easier, I’m all over it.  This is especially true when it comes to dinner.  One pan dishes are not only easy to throw together, but they’re easy for clean-up too.

That is just one reason to love loaded potato meatloaf casserole.  You start with a basic meatloaf recipe and then add your mashed potatoes and top it off with bacon.  I mean, anything with bacon is good, right?

I usually make mine with homemade potatoes and freshly fried bacon.  But, it tastes just as good if you are in a hurry and want to use instant mashed potatoes and pre-cooked bacon. See, just another reason to love this recipe!

Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole combines two of my favorite things: loaded baked potatoes, and meatloaf. It’s easy comfort food that makes enough to feed your family, and maybe even enough for leftovers for lunch the next day!

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Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole

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A simple weeknight dinner that combines meatloaf and loaded baked potatoes for an amazingly delicious meal.

• Author: SammieB

Ingredients

1. 2 lbs hamburger
2. 1 packet of dry onion soup mix
3. 2 eggs
4. 6 cups of mashed potatoes
5. 1 lb bacon
6. 1 cup shredded cheese

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the hamburger, eggs, and dry onion soup mix.
2. Mix it together using your hands until thoroughly blended.
3. Spread the mixture in a greased 9×13 pan and bake at 400 for 25 minutes.
4. While the meatloaf is baking cut the bacon into 1″ pieces, and fry until crispy.
5. Drain the grease from the bacon and set aside.
6. Make 6 cups of homemade mashed potatoes (if making fresh, that’s about 7-8 potatoes) and set aside.
7. Once the meatloaf has baked for 25 minutes, remove it from the oven and drain the grease.
8. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the meatloaf. Then top the mashed potatoes with the cheese, and the cheese with the bacon.
9. Bake the entire mixture at 400 for 30 minutes.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

The post Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Eggs Benedict is a popular breakfast food. But, I don’t like to take the time to make it in the morning. That’s why usually make this Eggs Benedict casserole instead.

I love easy meals. As you’ve probably seen on my site, I love meals that can be made quickly, but are full of flavor and good nutrients for my family!

This Eggs Benedict Casserole is prepped the night before so breakfast doesn’t have to be such a rush in the morning. It’s delicious and simple and is one of our favorites!

Eggs Benedict Casserole uses pre-made English muffins so there’s no baking involved. If you can stir a sauce, and cut some bread, you can make this casserole with ease!

• Pro tip: This casserole is an easy addition to a special occasion breakfast, like Christmas brunch! Get our other budget-friendly Christmas brunch options at How to Do Christmas on a Budget.

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Eggs Benedict Casserole

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• Author: SammieB
• Prep Time: 20
• Cook Time: 50
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

CASSEROLE

• 6 english muffins, cubed
• 8 eggs, scrambled
• 16 oz package of cubed ham
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• salt and pepper to taste

SAUCE:

• 4 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Turn the oven broiler onto high.
2. Place the cubed English muffins on a cookie sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes.
3. Flip the cubes over and broil for another 1-2 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, onion powder and salt and pepper together.
5. Pour the mixture over the English muffin cubes.
6. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
7. In the morning, sprinkle the ham over the mixture.
8. Bake covered at 375 for 35 minutes.
9. Remove from the oven and uncover the dish.
10. Bake for another 20 minutes at 375.
11. While it bakes, prepare the sauce.
12. In a double boiler, combine the egg yolks, heavy whipping cream, mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk non-stop until the sauce is thick enough that it will coat the back of your spoon.
13. Remove from the heat and add the butter.
14. Pour the sauce over the casserole fresh from the oven and serve immediately.

The post Eggs Benedict Casserole appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

One of my favorite treats is chocolate covered strawberries.  They are something I could sit and just gobble down without even thinking about it!

My husband normally makes them for me for Valentine’s Day.  He will take the time to even drizzle white chocolate on them to make them even more special.  I love that he cares that much about me that he wants to make sure my day is special.

Of course, my kids ended up trying mine one year (my “mistake” for sharing).  Now, they want to have them along with me!

I love that they enjoy these because it is a sneaky way for them to eat some fruit.  They think it is a sweet treat, but they don’t think about the fact that it also contains something healthy.  Because of that, I wanted to find a way to make their own special Valentine’s Day treat.   That is when I started making them Chocolate Strawberry Hearts!

These are super easy to make.  You need only a few items and in less than 10 minutes you’ll be all done!  What a fun idea to add to your Valentine’s Day Breakfast!  I mean, it DOES have fruit inside!  

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Chocolate Strawberry Hearts

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• Author: Tracie
• Category: Dessert

Ingredients

• Strawberries (cleaned and dried)
• Chocolate Almond Bark
• Toothpicks
• Cookie sheet lined with wax paper
• Sprinkles (if desired)

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Instructions

1. Slice the stem off of each strawberry.
2. Slice the strawberry in half (vertically).
3. “Join” the points of the strawberry together and connect them with a toothpick (hint – make sure you leave some of the toothpick showing so that you can remove it once the chocolate sets, so you do not have to worry about biting down into a toothpick).
4. Melt 1/2 of the package of almond bark in the microwave. It is best to do so in 30 second increments, stirring between each. This will avoid burning and scorching.
5. Dip each connected strawberry into the chocolate. You may need to use a spoon to cover all of the tops and sides.
6. Place each one onto the wax paper. You can spin the strawberry and make adjustments as needed so that they look like a heart.
7. If you wish to add sprinkles, do so while the chocolate is melted.
8. Allow to set up for 20 – 30 minutes (can do this on your counter or in your refrigerator.
9. Store for up to 1 week.

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Who needs cookies when you can make Edible Rainbow Cookie Dough? Seriously, I’m a sucker for cookie dough. It’s better than a bowl of ice cream , in my opinion, and takes so little effort to make! I don’t like eating raw eggs, so I always make special batches of cookie dough that are eggless so I can eat it with a clean conscience.

I usually make a batch of this, then just keep it stored in the fridge in an air-tight container. You can omit the sprinkles if you want, but they’re my favorite part! The rainbow sprinkles make it so fun and colorful and it can brighten my day every single time! My kids love it when I do this too.

Edible Rainbow Cookie Dough

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• Author: SammieB

Ingredients

1. 1 cup brown sugar
2. 1/4 cup sugar
3. 1 cup unsalted butter
4. 2 teaspoons vanilla
5. 1 teaspoon salt
6. 2 cups flour
7. 2 Tablespoons of milk
8. 2/3 cup rainbow sprinkles

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix together the sugars and the butter until fluffy.
2. Add in the salt and vanilla and mix until combined.
3. Mix in the flour slowly.
4. Add in the milk a Tablespoon at a time until the dough is starting to come together. If you need an additional Tablespoon, feel free to add one.
5. Store your Edible Rainbow Cookie Dough in the fridge until you’re ready to eat it.

If you liked this Edible Rainbow Cookie Dough, check out these recipes too:

Edible Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Mini Fruit Pizza
Monster M&M Cookie Recipe

The post Edible Rainbow Cookie Dough appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

Weeknights around here are often chaotic and super busy, which can make dinner a challenge. Fortunately, these make-ahead freezer meals make busy nights easier than ever.

I try to meal plan and prep the best that I can, but some nights time gets the best of me. On those nights, I pull a premade freezer meal out of my deep freezer and taaaa daaaa – dinner is served.

And, don’t forget to learn how to menu plan or use my free family favorite meals printable to save your sanity!!  Here are some from my favorite bloggers I plan to try soon!

Other recipes you may be interested in:

• 15 Savory Soups you Can Make in your Instant Pot
• 25 Slowcooker Recipes
• Black and White Bean Spicy Chili Recipe
• Simple and Delicious Sloppy Joes

Honey Chicken Teriyaki

Shrimp Fried Rice

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

Swedish Meatballs

Everything Bagel Bomb

No Cook Banana Pecan Overnight Oatmeal

Pizza Stuffed Shells

Pizza Pockets

Breakfast Quesadillas

Uncrustables

Teriyaki Chicken Bowl

Turkey Sausage Breakfast Sandwich

Mini Omelettes

Salsa Chicken

Chicken Fajitas

The post Make Ahead Freezer Meals For Your Busy Family appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.