1 package (12 ounces) frozen red raspberries, thawed
1/3 cup sugar or honey
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Heat oven to 170 F.
Line two baking pans with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Combine all ingredients in blender and puree until smooth. Pour raspberry mixture on both pans and smooth into thin layer, less than 1/8-inch thick.
Bake 3 hours or until mixture is no longer wet, but still slightly tacky, rotating every hour and alternating levels.
Cool pans on wire rack to room temperature. Remove parchment paper (if using), place on cutting board and cut (or tear) into chip-size pieces. Store with fresh pieces of parchment paper between fruit leather layers in airtight container.
Place frozen raspberries on counter to thaw slightly while preparing muffins.
In medium bowl, stir together flour, brown sugar, sugar, cinnamon, baking soda and salt.
In another medium bowl, stir together remaining muffin ingredients, except raspberries.
Stir pumpkin mixture into flour mixture until blended. Do not over mix. Spoon equal amounts of batter in each muffin tin. Place equal amounts of raspberries on top of each muffin.
Bake 20-22 minutes or until wooden toothpick inserted comes out almost clean.
Meanwhile in small bowl, combine topping ingredients and set aside.
Remove muffins from oven, place on wire rack and immediately sprinkle with topping. Let stand 15 minutes to continue to cook and absorb flavors. Remove muffins from pan and cool completely on wire rack before storing.
Store cooled leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator up to 48 hours or freeze up to 1 month.
Note: May make as mini muffins: bake 15 minutes in 12 muffin tins.
The weather is getting cooler. The leaves are changing color! That doesn’t mean grill season has to burn out.
In fact, 60 percent of grillers’ are now cooking outdoors year-round, so fall grilling season is just heating up according to the Hearth Patio and Barbecue Association,
With the new season come new opportunities to fire up the grill, from tailgating at football games perfect your burger grilling skills with these tips from Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet grill master Russ Faulk:
Grill the Perfect Burger this Season
The Beef
The first step to the perfect burger is selecting the right beef. To get the right balance of texture, flavor and juiciness, go with an 85 percent lean mixture. Ground beef from the butcher’s case is recommended over pre-packaged options.
For the freshest flavor, avoid ground beef with any signs of gray or brown color. Always check the underside of the meat before purchasing.
The Patties
Form 1/3-pound to 1/2-pound patties, making them about three-fourths of an inch thick and roughly three-fourths of an inch larger in diameter than the buns.
Dimple the middle of each patty so it’s thinner in the center than at the edges. The indent will rise up and flatten out when grilled.
Finally, brush the patties with olive oil and season with salt – both will help in creating a browned exterior crust.
Prepping the Grill
Heat up two temperature zones: one hot fire at 600 degrees for the burgers and another 400-degree area for toasting the buns.
The dry heat of a charcoal fire delivers the best crust on the outside of the burger. Gas fire also works, if it’s hot enough. Certain grills, such as the Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet Hybrid Fire Grill, allow for cooking with any combination of gas, charcoal or wood.
The Grilling
Place the burgers over the hottest part of the grill for about four minutes. Add slices of red onions to the grill to caramelize them at this time.
Flip the burgers and cook for another four minutes. Add cheese to the top of the patties and place the onions on top of the burger.
When the burgers are almost done, lightly toast the buns directly on the cooler zone of the grill grate or on the warming rack for about 20-30 seconds.Remove everything from the grill, and assemble your burgers.
Recipe: Liberty Burgers
Ingredients
4 pounds choice ground round, 85 percent lean, formed into 8 hamburger patties
Extra virgin olive oil
Finely-ground sea salt
8 Italian rolls, split
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 poblano pepper, thinly sliced (or green bell pepper)
With the holiday hosting season knocking at the door, break from the mold of the traditional gathering with a more modern way to entertain.
Throwing a cocktail party, complete with variations of classic holiday recipes, and taking advantage of the relaxed, come-and-go atmosphere is an easy way to make countless holiday memories without spending days in the kitchen to prepare.
Jessica Sturdy, lifestyle expert and the blogger behind Bows & Sequins, shares these tips for making your seasonal soiree one to remember:
* Signature Sips – Creating a custom cocktail is an easy way to add something festive and personalized to toast your guests, which can include traditional holiday flavors like cranberry, peppermint, cinnamon, fig or champagne. Prepare a few pitchers beforehand so guests can pour themselves, leaving you time to enjoy your company. If time permits, type up a drink recipe card and place the print out in a fun frame to include at the bar.
* Please All Palates – Keep all appetites happy with a charcuterie board by gathering an assortment of your favorite cheeses – perhaps cheeses from around the world or locally. Mix with an array of meats, crackers and mustards which pair nicely with something more acidic, like dried fruit, pickles or olives. Smoked over real hardwoods, Johnsonville summer sausages are a delicious choice to help anchor the platter. Display on a tray with character – even an old mirror – to make even the most basic meat and cheese display festive and amp up your serving platter with natural materials, such as herbs or festive holly.
* Capture the Moment – Invest in an old-school instant film camera to create your own throwback photo booth. The quickly developed photos will make for great parting gifts. You can make cute signs that include holiday slogans with a little cardboard paper, glitter and sticks that your guests can use as easy DIY props, and a simple holiday wall banner or sparkly wall tinsel will create the perfect backdrop. You can also purchase disposable cameras to leave around the party to capture all of the fun moments you may have missed playing host. It’s a fun surprise to develop them after the party.
* Leave the Cold at the Door – Make your guests feel at home by lighting a fire and positioning some holiday scented candles throughout your space. Just be sure to keep the candles away from the food so as to not sour the taste or smell of your hors d’oeuvres. Create a playlist that sets the mood you want your party to embody; from festive Christmas carols to classic jazz to this year’s top 50 countdown, your music will set the pace and make your guests feel welcome.
* Expect the Unexpected – The key to a happy host is a stress-free host. Be sure to leave yourself with plenty of prep time, have your house cleaned and the bar cart stocked with plenty of clean glasses the day before your event. Purchase backup food items that can easily be passed around during the party without the extra prep time, such as nuts, popcorn, pretzels and peppermint bark, and don’t forget that you can never have too much ice.
For holiday food and drink recipes to make your party festive and fun, visit Johnsonville.com.
The highlight of the holiday season is often the gathering of friends and family for a seasonal meal. Whether hosting and planning a full menu or attending a holiday get-together, keep in mind the perfect wine and spirit pairings for either a traditional feast or a more modern soiree featuring a variety of hors d’oeuvres.
Wines, such as La Crema Chardonnay and Liberated’s Cabernet, and spirits or liqueurs, can serve as more than just a terrific accompaniment to your holiday spread; they also make great gifts for those wine connoisseurs and liquor aficionados on your shopping list.
The Perfect Accompaniment to Any Celebration
La Crema
An elegant choice for your favorite hostess or connoisseur, this limited production La Crema Chardonnay is a true expression of the Russian River Valley in Northern California. Complex and nuanced, with flavors of ripe pear, nutmeg and hints of nougat, this lush wine is the perfect accompaniment to any holiday celebration and pairs well with roast chicken, creamy cheeses or seafood. Learn more about La Crema and their hands-on, artisan winemaking techniques at lacrema.com.
Reach Your Potential with Something Different
Liberated wines are for anyone looking for something a little different, whether for themselves or as a gift. This new collection celebrates individuals that break free from boundaries to reach their full potential with nine stunning labels, all featuring a unique personality archetype. The Cabernet is a favorite for the holidays with hints of black cherry, a rich, silky texture and three labels to choose from: the Explorer, the Business Man and the Adventurer. Learn more at liberatedwine.com.
The Art of Chocolate in a Bottle
One brand is recognized all over the world as the ultimate expression of the art of chocolate – Godiva. Belgian
Master Chocolatier Joseph Draps developed a unique rich chocolate with unparalleled smoothness more than 80 years ago, and Godiva Chocolate Liqueur is the ultimate embodiment of the original chocolate collection. Each bottle combines chocolate with enticing flavors from around the world that mix well with a variety of spirits. Find more ways to enjoy Godiva Chocolate Liqueur at godivaliqueurs.com.
Baileys Original Irish Cream liqueur
A Blended Ready-to-Serve Delight
Since its first introduction in 1974, Baileys Original Irish Cream liqueur has become one of the world’s most popular spirits, currently ranked seventh among globally sold distilled spirits. Its distinctive creamy taste comes from a blend of Irish whiskey, fresh double cream and other ingredients. Godiva Chocolate Liqueur award-winning recipe, which now also includes Vanilla Cinnamon, Chocolate Cherry, Salted Caramel and Espresso Creme, is perfect as a ready-to-serve cocktail or mixed with coffee. Find out more at baileys.com.
How to Age Wine Gracefully
Whether you plan to store that wine you received as a gift for weeks, months or years, here are a few tips to ensure your wine ages well:
* Store bottles on their sides. The cork can dry out and crack if not in contact with wine.
* Keep bottles between 55-65 F. The perfect cellar temperature to store wine is 55 F. Cooler temperatures can slow the aging process.
* Keep humidity between 60-80 percent. Low humidity can cause evaporation and oxidation while high humidity encourages mold.
* Keep temperature swings to a minimum. Temperature fluctuation causes wine to expand and contract, damaging the cork.
* Store in a dark place. Light exposure can cause wine proteins to become hazy and also cause aroma and flavor change.
* Store in a location free of odor and vibration. Vibration can hinder wine’s development and odors can seep in through the cork.
Serve Spirits Like a Pro
Spirits can be served in a variety of ways, and different people prefer their drinks certain ways, so when entertaining this holiday season it is important to be familiar with some of the most common serving techniques:
* Neat: When spirits are served and consumed at room temperature with nothing added.
* On the rocks: When spirits are served and drank over ice.
* Up: When spirits are shaken or stirred with ice or chilled but drank with the ice filtered out.
* With a mixer: Some spirits lend themselves well to mixing, with ingredients such as tonic water, cola or juice.
* With a twist: When spirits are served with a thin strip of citrus peel, traditionally lemon, on the rim of the glass.
Everyone knows the classic love story. Man and woman fall in love, get married, have a baby and live happily ever after. However, real life isn’t always the fairy tale. While today’s version of the modern family has changed over time, the importance of parental involvement in children’s lives has not.
However, one out of every three American children (about 24 million) lives in a home without their
biological father. According to research by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University (or CASA), these children are more likely use drugs and experience educational, health, emotional and behavioral problems.
“Having both biological parents active in a child’s life has proven to have a positive effect on both the child’s social development and academic achievement,” says Dr. Janet Taylor, an author and community psychiatrist in the New York City area who frequently counsels families.
For kids, growing up in an environment where both parents are involved is important to their long-term development, health and well-being. Dr. Taylor provides the following advice for dads on how they can stay active in their child’s life, even if they are not the primary caregiver.
Share Meals Together
According research by CASA, children who share regular meals with their parents earn better grades in school than those who do not.
Set a goal: To share a meal with your child at least two days per week. Dinner doesn’t have to be elaborate. The focus should be on communication.
Plan fun activities: No matter where you go or how much money you spend, every moment spent with your child is a chance to create positive memories. Set aside time to celebrate your kids’ accomplishments and special occasions. Dig out some great broad games and make it a family night of fun. This will increase the child’s confidence and encourage them to keep trying.
Get involved at school: Fathers are a positive force in their children’s education. According to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics, when fathers get involved in their child’s education, the child is more likely to get good grades, enjoy school and participate in extracurricular activities. The absence of some men may be due to not fully knowing the paternity of the child.
“Paternity questions are actually more common than you think. In fact, a recent survey found that one in five Americans said that they, or a close friend or family member, have questioned paternity,” adds Dr. Taylor.
In these cases, the mother may choose to take on full responsibility, or the man may be reluctant to be a father to a child that he’s not sure is his. Regardless, addressing paternity questions is the most responsible and caring decision for the child involved. Test kits like the Identigene DNA Paternity Test are available at drug stores and supercenters, and offer 100 percent accurate and confidential results within a matter of days.
Look for long lasting Energizer(r) Batteries for Kids Toys and Gadgets This Season
Easy ways to get your family and home ready for the festivities
From hectic trips to the shopping mall to the costly expenses of gift giving, the holidays can bring about many frustrations. With a little bit of organization you’ll be ready to take on the holidays and enjoy the spirit of the season.
The many expectations of the holidays can make even the most laid-back people a bit stressed out. This year, face the festivities with a few tips to help you keep things in control, giving you extra time to sit back and enjoy this special time with family and friends.
Here are a few tips for a carefree, relaxed holiday:
Organize your spending budget
Holiday expenses can pile up fast, especially if you haven’t set a budget for gifts. Though it may be too late to set aside a monthly allotment for your big shopping bonanza, it’s important to sit down with your family to come up with a number that won’t set your finances back well into the new year.
Stock up on essentials
Avoid the hectic, last-minute rush by ensuring you have plenty of holiday essentials on hand. Some must-have items include holiday cards, stamps, gift wrapping supplies, and, perhaps the most important of items, batteries. Look for long lasting types, such as Energizer(r) Ultimate Lithium batteries, which are ideal for pairing with high drain devices like digital cameras, GPS devices and video game controllers. These high performing batteries are the world’s longest lasting AA and AAA batteries in high-tech devices and now hold power for up to 20 years when not in use. For more information, visit www.energizer.com.
Clear some space
With the many gifts you’re soon to receive, getting rid of old, unused clothing and household items is a great idea for clearing out clutter. Figure out what you haven’t used and donate it to charity or someone else who will put it to good use.
Check it twice
After you’ve made a list of all the family and friends you need to buy presents for, look over it again to ensure you haven’t missed anyone or any additional items. For instance, if purchasing popular gifts, like children’s toys and flashlights, be sure to also include a set of batteries, such as Energizer(r) Max(r) batteries. These batteries have a shelf life of 10 years. They hold power so you always have it when you need it most.
Compare before you buy
Check online for the best deals on high-end items, such as electronics and jewelry. Though this process may be a little time consuming, it can save you big bucks.
Whether you’re afraid of over-extending your finances or you just need a little direction for clearing the pre-holiday clutter, use this list to help keep your life in order during this busy season.
When snow is in the forecast, a fully stocked shed and plan of attack can help you weather the storm.
Regardless of the predicted snowfall totals, it’s best to have the appropriate tools on hand for your home, your car and yourself.
The driveway
To clear snow from large, flat areas, a snow blower is the best tool. The innovative Snow Joe iON Hybrid Snow Blower eliminates the need to run out for gas during a storm and operates on both battery and corded electric power, giving you extended clearing time. Begin by using the rechargeable battery to clear the areas furthest away from your home and utilize the corded electrical power for extended use as you get closer to your house. Clear a path as it snows, if possible, to avoid a bigger end job. Once all of the snow has been removed, cover any slippery patches with salt or sand.
Sidewalks and pathways
Clearing sidewalks and pathways is not only courteous to your neighbors, but in many areas it’s the law. For lighter
Snow Blowing Winter Snow Around Home and House
snow, putting down ice melt a few hours before a storm can melt snow up to 2 inches deep and keep ice from forming. For larger storms, it’s advised to remove smaller amounts of snow several times instead of waiting until the snow stops falling. This results in less strenuous activity and also allows the sun to warm up the pavement, preventing ice from forming.
The car
It’s important to keep your car stocked up for an emergency, just as you would your home. Fill your trunk with a small survival kit, including a blanket, water, flashlight and extra batteries. Another important tool to keep in your car in the winter is an ice scraper. The Snow Joe illum-n-Broom is equipped with an ice scraper and snow broom to push snow off the car without scratching the paint. The all-in-one unit also features a flashlight and emergency blinker, so you can address hazards and drive safely.
Yourself
While removing snow may make you work up a sweat, it’s still important to dress warmly and keep your body covered, especially parts of the body that are vulnerable to frostbite, such as your fingers, toes and face. Make sure that you are equipped with a warm jacket, thick gloves and socks, and a hat that covers your ears. Dress in layers so that you can take off pieces of clothing as your body warms up.
For additional snow removal products that will help you weather the winter, visit snowjoe.com.
From wine in a can to boxed wine and beyond, frequent wine drinkers are enjoying wine at a wider variety of occasions than ever before.
E. & J. Gallo Winery, the world’s largest family-owned winery, recently released the findings of its 2015 Gallo Consumer Wine Trends Survey to identify the top trends of the year. For a closer look at these trends and more, visit GalloWineTrends.com.
Containers come in all shapes and sizes with purposes ranging from helping organize your stuff to adding an extra element to your decor.
These simple DIY projects make it easy to transform basic containers into pretty accent pieces that showcase your personal style.
Re-imagine plain glass jars by adding texture and color with a project created by the crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. Create a faux milk glass look and emulate the appearance of tree bark by simply using hot glue to make your design. Finish with paint to match the palette of the room where your vessels will be displayed and add some dried or fresh vegetation for an added organic touch.
Then spruce up boring terra cotta pots using decorative paints and tape to add trendy patterns and designs. The pots make a lovely addition to any room, or they’re perfect as hostess gifts or party favors.
Find more ways to get creative with the containers in your home at joann.com.
Milk Glass Jar and Jug
Crafting time: 3-5 hours Skill level: Some experience necessary
Supplies and Tools:
Mason jar
Glass milk jug
Rubbing alcohol Hot glue gun and glue sticks
1/2-inch flat brush
FolkArt Home Decor Chalk: White Adirondack
Mod Podge Ultra Matte finish
Wash jar and jug with mild soap and water. Dry and wipe with rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.
Create dots on Mason jar with hot glue. Work in sections to allow glue to harden. Apply lines of hot glue to milk jug, starting with a swirl in the middle to create a tree knot design. Create lines around knot to achieve a faux bois effect. Allow glue to harden.
Paint over glue on both glass surfaces. Apply several coats if needed, allowing drying time between applications.
Seal both pieces with a coat of Ultra Matte finish. Allow to dry before applying any additional coats.
Trendy Plant Pottery
Crafting time: Under 1 hour Skill level: No experience necessary
Supplies and Tools:
Clay pots Decorative tapes
Paint of choice
Teresa Collins rub-on metallic letters
Plants
Decorate clay pots with paint and decorative tapes. Allow to dry. Use rub-on letters to personalize pottery with a trendy aesthetic. Add plants.
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