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Archive for the ‘Candies’ Category

How to Make Divinity Candy in Your Microwave: A Step-by-Step Guide

Candy is dandy in your microwave oven. Remember to microwave on MED. HIGH (Roast) so sugar syrup boils, sugar dissolves and blends into candy. Use containers 2 to 3 times larger than quantity to prevent boil-overs and cover candy and snacks when specified. Use a glass plate or stretch plastic wrap tightly across bowl so steam escapes during cooking. Stir candy during cooking so heat is equalized and candy cooks smooth. WATCH CANDY CLOSELY because a microwave oven cooks fast. Check with a candy thermometer (Remove candy from oven first unless using a microwave candy thermometer.)


Ingredients:

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar
  • 1 egg white
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts
  • Candied Cherries (optional)

Directions:

  1. Combine sugar, water and vinegar in a buttered 4-cup glass measure; cover with plastic wrap.
  2. Microwave 12 to 17 minutes on MED. HIGH (Roast) or until candy forms a firm ball in cold water (240°F.).
  3. Meanwhile, beat egg white in medium mixer bowl until stiff peaks form.
  4. Pour candy syrup in thin stream into egg white, beating constantly with mixer. Add vanilla; beat until mixture is stiff.
  5. Fold in nuts. If you want extra color, add 1/4 cup chopped candied cherries.
  6. Drop mixture by teaspoonfuls onto wax paper; cool.
    Approximately 30 Candy Pieces

Category:

Candies, microwave cooking, Recipes

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Caramels Made in the Microwave

Notes on making candy in your microwave
Candy is dandy in your microwave oven. Remember to microwave on MED. HIGH (Roast) so sugar syrup boils, sugar dissolves and blends into candy. Use containers 2 to 3 times larger than quantity to prevent boil-overs and cover candy and snacks when specified. Use a glass plate or stretch plastic wrap tightly across bowl so steam escapes during cooking. Stir candy during cooking so heat is equalized and candy cooks smooth. WATCH CANDY CLOSELY because a microwave oven cooks fast. Check with a candy thermometer (Remove candy from oven first unless using a microwave candy thermometer.)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup butter or margarine
  • 2 1/4 cups brown sugar
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 can (15 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
  • Dash salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:

  1. Place butter in large buttered mixing bowl. Microwave 1 to 2 minutes on MED. HIGH (Roast) to melt.
  2. Blend in brown sugar, syrup, condensed milk and salt.
  3. Cover with plastic wrap.
  4. Microwave 10 to 12 minutes on HIGH; stir well.
  5. Microwave, uncovered, 16 to 20 minutes on MED. HIGH (Roast) (240° F.) or until candy
    forms ball in cold water or check with thermometer).
  6. Mix in vanilla and pour into greased 12 x 7-inch baking dish.
  7. Cool to room temperature before cutting.
  8. Cut and wrap in individual pieces.
    Makes About 84 One-inch Candies

Category:

Candies, microwave cooking, Party Food, Recipes

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Delicious Fudge Squares: Simple Microwave Recipe

Notes on making candy in your microwave
Candy is dandy in your microwave oven. Remember to microwave on MED. HIGH (Roast) so sugar syrup boils, sugar dissolves and blends into candy. Use containers 2 to 3 times larger than quantity to prevent boil-overs and cover candy and snacks when specified. Use a glass plate or stretch plastic wrap tightly across bowl so steam escapes during cooking. Stir candy during cooking so heat is equalized and candy cooks smooth. WATCH CANDY CLOSELY because a microwave oven cooks fast. Check with a candy thermometer (Remove candy from oven first unless using a microwave candy thermometer.)

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups sugar
  • 3/4 cup butter or margarine
  • 1 can (5 oz.) evaporated milk
  • 1 pkg. (12 oz.) semi-sweet chocolate pieces
  • 1 jar (10 oz.) marshmallow creme
  • 1 cup chopped nuts
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions:

  1. Combine sugar, butter, and milk in buttered large glass mixing bowl. Cover with plastic wrap.
  2. Microwave 10 minutes on MED. HIGH (Roast).
  3. Stir and continue cooking on MED. HIGH (Roast) for 5 to 8 minutes or until mixture forms a soft ball in cold water. You can also check it was a candy thermometer to see if it has reached the correct temperature for soft ball.
  4. Stir in chocolate pieces until melted.
  5. Fold in marshmallow creme, nuts and vanilla.
  6. Pour into buttered 13 x 9-inch pan.
  7. Chill until firm; cut into squares. Make about 74 small Fudge Squares

Category:

Candies, microwave cooking, Recipes

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Engaging Children’s Books, Fun Facts and Delicious Recipes

Children’s Bible books

  • For older kids
    • THE CHILDREN’S SIX MINUTES by Bruce S. Wright: The Children’s Six Minutes by Bruce S. Wright features a collection of themes exploring growth, kindness, faith, and life’s lessons through various engaging stories and reflections.
    • The Wonder Book of Bible Stories: “The Wonder Book of Bible Stories” by Logan Marshall shares simplified biblical narratives for children, conveying essential moral lessons through engaging tales from the Bible.

Children’s books

  • For younger kids
    • McGuffey Eclectic Primer: textbook focused on early literacy, teaching reading and writing through simple lessons and moral stories for young children.
    • McGuffey’s First Eclectic Reader: educational textbook for young readers, combining phonics, sight words, moral lessons, and simple narratives to enhance literacy skills.
    • MCGUFFEY’S SECOND ECLECTIC READER: educational book for children, promoting literacy and moral values through engaging prose, poetry, and vocabulary exercises.
    • The Real Mother Goose: a collection of nursery rhymes, reflecting childhood’s whimsical essence through well-known verses and engaging illustrations.
    • THE GREAT BIG TREASURY OF BEATRIX POTTER: The Great Big Treasury of Beatrix Potter features beloved stories like The Tale of Peter Rabbit and The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck, celebrating whimsical animal adventures.
    • The Tale of Solomon Owl is a whimsical children’s book by Arthur Scott Bailey, exploring themes of friendship and adventure through Solomon Owl’s humorous encounters with forest animals.
    • THE TALE OF JOLLY ROBIN: follows a young bird’s adventures as he learns life skills, values friendship, and explores youthful curiosity through humorous encounters in the wild.
    • Peter and Polly Series: The content describes a series of stories for 1st graders featuring Peter and Polly, exploring seasonal adventures, imaginative play, nature, family, and interactions with pets and animals.
    • The Adventures of Old Mr. Toad: recounts Old Mr. Toad’s humorous nature-filled journeys, emphasizing lessons on friendship, humility, and personal growth amidst various animal encounters.
    • The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: follows Dorothy’s adventures in Oz as she seeks to return home, meeting memorable friends while exploring themes of courage, friendship, and self-discovery.
  • For older kids
    • Stories of Don Quixote Written Anew for Children retells key adventures from Cervantes’ novel, preserving its spirit while engagingly presenting them for young readers in a cohesive narrative.
    • Heidi by Johanna Spyri follows a young girl adapting to life in the Swiss Alps with her grandfather, highlighting themes of family, love, and the power of nature.
    • Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss: is a beloved adventure novel by Johann David Wyss about a Swiss family stranded on a deserted island, relying on their creativity and teamwork to survive and build a new life.
    • Rebecca Of Sunnybrook Farm: follows the spirited Rebecca Randall as she navigates life with her aunts in Riverboro, experiencing adventure, growth, and identity exploration.

Children’s history book

  • For younger kids
    • Great Stories for Little Americans: introduces young readers to American history through engaging tales, fostering national pride and knowledge of heritage via accessible storytelling.
    • The Bird-woman of the Lewis and Clark Expedition: A Supplementary Reader for First and Second Grades- tells Sacajawea’s vital role in guiding the explorers, emphasizing her contributions and experiences during this historic journey.
    • The Story of Mankind: chronicles human history from prehistory to the modern era, highlighting key events, cultures, and figures that shaped civilization.
    • A First Book in American History: A first book in American history: with special reference to the lives and deeds of great Americans. This book chronicles pivotal figures in American history, from Columbus and John Smith to Franklin and Lincoln, highlighting their contributions and the nation’s expansion.
  • For older kids

Poem and stories

  • THE PLYMOUTH HARVEST by Governor Bradford
  • The Real Mother Goose Poems Book: a collection of nursery rhymes, reflecting childhood’s whimsical essence through well-known verses and engaging illustrations.
  • Top Poems for Children by Famous Authors: A list of children’s poems organized by author, with future additions anticipated, includes works by notable poets and authors. [Coming soon]
  • Poems and stories by Bell: Bell, a young poet, shares her love for God through inspiring poems and stories centered on nature, love, and faith, aiming to bless and bring joy to readers.
  • Explore Heartfelt Poems and Stories for Inspiration: Poems and stories to warm your heart.
  • Heartfelt Tales of My Beloved Pets: The author shares stories of various animals that have impacted their life, encouraging love for pets and providing comforting Bible verses for grieving pet owners.

Children bible study

Children recipes

Children fun facts

Pictures

Category:

A First Book in American History, A History of the United States and its People, baking, Bible articles by Bell, Bible Study, Bible Verse Mapping, bread, Cakes /Bar, Candies, cookies, Cool Facts, From the Old Testament, Great Stories for Little Americans, Heidi, Holiday Recipes, microwave cooking, Mother Stories, Party Food, Peter and Polly Series, Pies, Pilgrim's Stories, Rebecca Of Sunnybrook Farm, Recipes, Stories of Don Quixote Written Anew for Children, Swiss Family Robinson, THE ADVENTURES OF OLD MR. TOAD, The Bird-Woman of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, The Children's Six Minutes, THE GREAT BIG TREASURY OF BEATRIX POTTER, The Real Mother Goose, The Story of Mankind, The Tale of Jolly Robin, The Tale of Solomon Owl, THE TRUE STORY OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS CALLED THE GREAT ADMIRAL, THE WONDER BOOK OF BIBLE STORIES, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

Delicious Holiday Lollipops Recipe

Makes 6 lollipops.

Ingredients

  • 3 1/4 cups white chocolate melts, from 2 (12 oz.) pkgs.
  • 6 tsp. oil
  • 1/4 cup red candy melts
  • 1/4 cup green candy melts

Other things needed.

  • Round Cookie Treat Pan (Cookie pans with 6 (3 1/2″-diameter, 1/4″-deep) round molds)
  • Coarse red and or green decorating sugars
  • 6 (6″ long) lollipop sticks

Directions

MELT CANDY:

  1. In microwave-safe bowl, microwave 3 cups white chocolate melts with oil on Medium 1 minute; stir.
  2. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth. In separate bowls, microwave red, green candy melts and remaining white chocolate melts on Medium in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth; transfer to separate plastic food storage bags. Snip 1 corner of each bag.

MAKE LOLLIPOPS:

  1. Sprinkle decorating sugar around inside edge of some molds.
  2. Pipe dots of assorted candy colors into molds to cover. Swirl with toothpick. Carefully cover halfway with candy-oil mixture.
  3. Place sticks in molds; cover with additional candy-oil mixture. In other molds, cover bottoms completely with decorating sugars.
  4. Carefully cover halfway with melted white mixture. Place sticks in molds; cover with candy-oil mixture.
  5. Let stand until set, about 2 hours. Remove from molds.
  6. Enjoy and happy holidays.

Category:

Candies, Party Food, Recipes, Seasonal

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Easy Home-made candy canes

Things needed

1 1/2 cups semisweet or
white chocolate chips, 9 oz.
1 tsp. oil
36 pretzel rods
snowflakes sprinkles, sprinkles, crushed candy, and any other candy

DIP PRETZELS:

  1. Line baking sheets with wax paper. In microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and oil; microwave on High in 20-second intervals, stirring, until melted and smooth.
  2. Dip each pretzel halfway or three-quarter way into chocolate, spreading with small spatula or back of spoon and allowing excess to drip off.

    SPRINKLE COATING:

3. Immediately sprinkle pretzels with sprinkles, or candies. Place on baking sheets. Let dry, about 1 hour.

Category:

Candies, Party Food, Recipes, Seasonal, winter

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Easy Quick Microwave Pralines Treat

Things Needed

  • 1 stick margarine
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups pecan pieces
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • Stirring Spoon
  • microwavable bowl

Steps

  1. Melt margarine in 8 cup microwavable bowl. Stir in evaporated milk and sugar.
  2. Microwave on high for 4 minutes. Remove and stir. Microwave on high another 4 minutes.
  3. Remove and stir again. Add pecans and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Add vanilla and stir until mixture begins to thicken. Drop on wax paper and let cool overnight. Enjoy!

Category:

Candies, microwave cooking, Party Food, Recipes

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Cooking with Kids: Simple Recipe Ideas

My 12 -year-old daughter loves to help me cook and has a passion for making desserts. She’s the main one in our house who prepares the sweets and also assists me in posting the recipes here. These recipes are some of her favorites to make. While they’re great for older kids, younger kids can also try them with a bit of adult supervision.

Breakfast

Mastering Pancakes: A Generational Recipe
Quick Baked Apples Recipe
Turkey Bacon Breakfast Burritos
Huevos Estrellados: A Mexican Breakfast Delight
Quick Guide to Creating a McGriddle at Home
Simple Sausage in a Blanket Recipe
Delicious Bacon and Veggie Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Pasta Dishes

Bacon-Tomatoes Mac and Cheese
Macaroni & Cheese
Mac ‘N ‘ Cheese with Creamy Collard Greens
Colorful Pasta Salad Recipe for Fresh Summer Meals

Vegetables

Quick Vegetable Stir-Fry Recipe
Loaded Baked Potatoes Recipe: Easy & Delicious
Easy Spinach Casserole Recipe
Healthy Chicken Soup: A Family Recipe  [coming soon]
Easy Broccoli Basil Pasta Recipe
Cheesy Potatoes Corn Chowder
step-by-Step Vegetable Soup: Quick and Nutritious Recipe (This recipe is good for winter when it is cold.)

Easy breads to make

Easy Basic Biscuit Recipe for All Occasions
Monkey Bread
Easy Home Style Corn Bread Recipe
Delicious Banana Nut Bread Recipe
Easy Homemade Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Harder breads to make

Easy Quick Yeast Rolls Recipe
How to Make Conchas: Easy Mexican Sweet Bread Recipe
Easy Dinner rolls for the Holidays
Delicious Homemade Donuts Recipe

Just a note:

  • All breads are a little hard to cook but taste good after done, so keep trying.

Cookies with peanuts /Easy cookies

Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookies

Cookies with chips in them /Easy cookies

Cookie with nut, chips or fruit

Harder cookies to make /for older kids

Holiday cookies /for older kids

Other cookies

  • Delicious Fortune Cookies Recipe with Sample Fortunes [coming soon]

Cakes and cupcakes

Bell created recipes

Frostings, Icings, and Glazes

Brownies

Bars

Holiday red raspberry chocolate bars
Creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars
Melting Chocolate Oatmeal coconut flakes bars
Delicious Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Tarts and cobblers

Summer Fruit Tart
Homemade Blueberry Cobbler: Step-by-Step Guide
Homemade Peach Cobbler: Step-by-Step Guide
Homemade Cherry Cobbler: Step-by-Step Guide

Easy pies to make

Homemade Apple Pie: Step-by-Step Guide to a Family Favorite
Sweet Potato Cream Cheese Pie Recipe
Classic Pecan Pie Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Apple Pie with Pecan Crumb Topping
Delicious Pumpkin Walnut Pie Recipe
Homemade Pumpkin Pie Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Harder pies to make/for older kids

Delicious Cocoa Cream Pie Recipe
Delicious Coconut Cream Pie Recipe
Lemon Ice box pie

Pie crust

Easy Almond Crumb Pie Crust Recipe

Category:

baking, bread, breakfast, Candies, cookies, drinks, eggs, Gravy and Sauces, Lunch/ Dinner, microwave cooking, other, Party Food, Recipes, salad

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Melting Chocolate Oatmeal coconut flakes bars

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups chocolate chips
  • 2/3 cup canned coconut milk
  • 1 cup Oats
  • 1 1/2 cup Raisins
  • 3/4 cup peanut butter cereal
  • 1/2 cup coconut flakes

Directions:

  1. In a double boiler melt chocolate chips over medium heat. When it starts to melt, pour in coconut milk.
  2. When all of it is almost melted put in a little at a time of oatmeal and raisins, mix well.
  3. When melted, put in the peanut butter cereal, mix in well.
  4. Grease an 8 by 8-inch pan and then pour the melted mixture into the pan.
  5. Sprinkle coconut flakes on top and then fold into the mixture.
  6. Place it in the refrigerator for about an hour, but if you can’t wait about 40 minutes.
Ultimate Online Cookbook: Your Guide to Simple Meals

Category:

Candies, other, Party Food, Recipes

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Creamy Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

If you like Reese peanut butter cups, you will love this recipe.

CRUST

  • one stick butter [1/2cup]
  • one 9-inch pie crust

CHOCOLATE LAYERS

  • 15 ounces milk chocolate chips
    (about 2½ cups)

PEANUT BUTTER FILLING

  • 1½ cups creamy peanut butter
  • 1 stick (½ cup) salted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°
  2. Open the pie and crumble it.
  3. Add butter and mix together completely.
  4. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of an 8-by-8-inch baking pan and bake for 10 minutes.
  5. Cool to room temperature.
  6. Melt chocolate in double boiler over slightly simmering water. Or microwave the chocolate, stirring every 30 seconds, until completely melted.
  7. Pour half of the melted chocolate into the pan and smooth evenly over crust.
  8. Place pan in refrigerator Keep remaining chocolate warm.
  9. Prepare the peanut butter filling: mix peanut butter and butter together until smooth using spoon.
  10. Slowly beat powdered sugar and then add vanilla. Beat until smooth. Spread peanut butter filling over the chilled chocolate layer.
  11. Finish by pouring remaining warm chocolate over filling and spreading smooth.
  12. Chill in refrigerator for 1 hour or until firm.
  13. Cut into bars to serve.

Yield: 24 to 36 bars

Ultimate Online Cookbook: Your Guide to Simple Meals

Category:

baking, Candies, Recipes

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