Candy Cane Kiss Sugar Cookie Bars with Buttercream Frosting

Christmas just isn't the same without at least one batch of Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting, but after a long day of Christmas shopping, I did not feel like rolling out and cutting each cookie.  

Sugar Cookie Bars to the rescue.  You still get a soft and chewy cookie, but with way less hassle.  As I was mixing up my dough, that bag of Candy Cane Kisses wouldn't stop staring at me.  Heck, why not chop some up and and them to my dough?

mmm . . . That was a great decision.  These peppermint flavored sugar cookie bars are AMAZING.  Sure, the more I look at them, the more they look like a Valentine's Day cookie.  Who knew 1/4 teaspoon of red food coloring would give me a neon pink icing instead of a light pastel pink frosting.  ha ha.

That's okay, I'll happily make them for Christmas, New Years, Valentines and any other time I get the chance :)

And . . . I am so happy to say I am completely finished with my Christmas shopping.

My parents, My In-laws, My two brothers and sisters-in-law, 4 nephews, 4 nieces and Grandma Joan all have presents!!  I have never been done with my shopping so early and it will be nice to have a week and a half to just enjoy the Holiday and eat more than my fair share of Sugar Cookie Bars.

Candy Cane Kiss Sugar Cookie Bars

From: Jenn@eatcakefordinner
(Printable Recipe) or (Printable with Picture)

1/2 c. unsalted butter, room temp.
1 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
2 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
25 chopped Candy Cane Kisses

Buttercream Frosting
1/2 c. unsalted butter, room temp.
pinch of salt
1 tsp. vanilla
a few drops of red food coloring, opt.
2 c. powdered sugar
milk, only if needed

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.  Cream together butter and sugar.  Mix in the vanilla.  Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition.  Add 1 cup of flour, salt and baking soda and mix until combined.  Add the remaining 1 cup of flour and chopped Candy Cane Kisses and mix until just combined.  Press dough into a greased 9x13-inch pan.  Bake for 14-15 minutes.  Cool completely.

For the Buttercream: Beat butter until creamy.  Add a pinch of salt, vanilla, red food coloring and one cup of powdered sugar and mix until combined.  Add the remaining one cup of powdered sugar and mix until smooth and creamy. Add a little milk, if needed, to reach desired consistency.  Spread over cooled sugar cookie bars.  Garnish with chopped candy canes or Candy Cane Kisses, if desired.

Jenn's Notes: These are my favorite on day two; they really soften up overnight. 

Linked up at Weekend Potluck! and Linked up at Inspiration Monday! and Link Party Palooza!

Christmas Funfetti Shortbread Bar Cookies

Traditionally, shortbread doesn't have eggs in it.  This recipe does.  I figured it would just make them more soft and chewy which sounded great to me.

I was mixing up the dough, added my egg and oops :(  That dang egg had two yolks in it.  My first thought was . . .

Didn't Paula Deen ever teach you to never crack the egg directly into the bowl?

Why yes she did . . . but I sure didn't listen.

Rather than scooping it out, I just left it and figured my bars would be extra moist.

They taste exactly like you would think - a soft and chewy almond flavored cookie that has been dipped in white chocolate and I think they are yummy.

Christmas Funfetti Shortbread Bar Cookies
adapted from: Inside BruCrew Life 
(Printable Recipe) or (Printable with Picture)

1/2 c. unsalted butter, room temperature
1 c. powdered sugar
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
3/4 tsp. almond extract
1/4 tsp. salt
2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 Tbl. milk, only if needed
2 Tbl. sprinkles, plus more for garnish
3/4 c. white chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Cream together butter and powdered sugar.  Mix in the egg, vanilla, almond extract and salt.  Slowly add the flour and 2 Tablespoons sprinkles and mix until dough comes together (my dough was so crumbly, I had to add 1 Tablespoon of milk in order for it to come together).  Form dough into a ball.  Line baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.  Press dough ball into a rough 9x9-inch square.  Try to keep it as even as possible.  You can sprinkle the top with a few more sprinkles, if you would like and press them into the dough.  Bake for 11-12 minutes.  Remove from oven and cut in half and then cut each half into 5 or 6 rectangles.  Makes around 10-12 bars.  Cool completely.  

Add white chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until melted, stirring every 30 seconds.  Dip one end of each shortbread bar into melted white chocolate and top with sprinkles.  Place on a lightly greased sheet of parchment paper and allow to harden.  Store in an air-tight container.  

Jenn's Notes: You will want to mix the dough quickly after the sprinkles are added, because the colors will melt into the dough.  These stay soft for several days.    

Linked up at Weekend Potluck!

Copycat Denny's Moons Over My Hammy

This sandwich is F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S.  I have made it several times and I can't get enough.  I haven't been to Denny's for years, but back when I used to go I loved to get this sandwich.    

I never actually get to make myself this in the morning, but I love to eat breakfast for dinner and this is almost as good as it gets.

The combination of American cheese and Swiss cheese gives you some outrageous flavor.  I love to use thick Texas Toast rather than Sourdough Bread.  Mostly because the remaining loaf of Texas Toast WILL get eaten in my house, whereas, the Sourdough probably wouldn't.    

Serve with a side of hashbrowns and you will have your own diner dish on your table.

Copycat Denny's Moons Over My Hammy

From: Jenn@eatcakefordinner
(Printable Recipe) or (Printable with Picture)

4 slices texas toast, toasted
4 large eggs
1 Tbl. chopped green onions, opt.
salt and pepper, to taste
2 slices American cheese
2 slices Swiss cheese
4-8 thin slices black forest ham, depending
    on how big your slices are

Crack eggs into a medium skillet over medium heat.  Stir with a spatula and add green onions; season with salt and pepper.  When barely cooked through and still moist, remove to a plate.  Add the sliced ham to the skillet to heat through; about 30 seconds.  Do not heat too long or it will get tough.  To make sandwiches: Lay out two slices of toast and top each with sliced Swiss cheese.  Place in warm skillet for a minute to slightly melt the cheese.  Remove from skillet.  Top each with sliced ham, scrambled eggs, a slice of American cheese and with the remaining two pieces of toast.  Slice and serve.  Makes 2 sandwiches.  

Candy Cane Marshmallow Fudge

I still haven't gotten out my Christmas tree and decorated for Christmas.  My goal was this weekend no matter what.  Still didn't happen.  

Please tell me I'm not the only one?

Truth is . . . I'd rather be making fudge :)

Last year, I made this Super Easy Microwave Rocky Road Fudge and it quickly became a favorite recipe.  I obviously needed some more variations of that easy microwave fudge.  Candy canes were the first thing that came to mind, because peppermint and chocolate is a classic combo.  

This is the kind of fudge that gets you in trouble, because you CAN NOT stop eating it.  It is rich and creamy and melts in your mouth.  

It has the perfect amount of candy canes, just enough to give a light peppermint flavor.  They soften up and have just a slight crunch.

This fudge is so easy even your husband could make it :)  It really is a No-Fail recipe. 

Candy Cane Marshmallow Fudge
From: Jenn@eatcakefordinner
(Printable Recipe) or (Printable with Picture)

1 (11.5 oz.) bag chocolate chips (I like Guittard Milk Chocolate)
1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp. vanilla extract
3 c. mini marshmallows
1/2 c. crushed candy canes (about 6-7 candy canes)

Line a 9x13-inch dish with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray.  Combine chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a large microwave-safe dish.  Microwave until chips are melted, stirring every 30 seconds.  When completely melted, stir in the vanilla extract.  Add the marshmallows and crushed candy canes and stir together until well combined.  Spread evenly into prepared baking dish.  Refrigerate until set.  Lift from pan and cut into squares and serve.  Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.   

* To crush candy canes: Unwrap, break into a few large pieces and place in a large zip-top bag.  Place bag over a folded kitchen towel.  Pound candy canes with a rolling pin until they reach desired size.

Jenn's Notes: I sprinkled crushed candy canes over half of my batch and the next morning, the candy canes were melted, so I wouldn't recommend doing that.  

Linked up at Weekend Potluck and Linked up at Inspiration Monday!

Christmas Present Ideas - Things I'm Loving

I am sharing something a little different today.  Christmas will be here before we know it and I am about halfway finished with my shopping.  

I thought I would share with you some of the things I love to hopefully give you some inspiration for your friends and family.

I find myself one of the easiest people to shop for, because I love everything.  You can buy me anything for the kitchen, candles, lotion, cookbooks, movies, dish towels, blankets, etc . . . and I will be happy.

This post is not sponsored by any of the following companies, these are just products I currently own or have used and am very happy with.

doTERRA Family Physician Kit

I'm pretty sure doTerra is going to be the HOT gift to give this year.  I recently purchased this Physician Kit and I am very happy with it.  If you are new to essential oils, this is a great way to start, it comes with 10 different oils.  That way, you can see which ones you like the best and then buy a larger bottle.  You might also want to get a cool air diffuser to go along with the oils.  

Microplane Zester 

This is one of those things that you don't think you need until you actually get one and then you realize you can't live without it.  You can use it to zest citrus fruits, Parmesan cheese, garlic, nutmeg and whatever else you can think of.  I love mine.  

Favorite Family Recipes Cookbook

I have talked about this book several times and it is one of my favorites.  I think it is an awesome gift for both new cooks and experienced cooks.  It is full of good food.

Target Flannel Shirts

I have this shirt in a few different colors.  It snaps in the front rather than buttons and you can roll up the sleeves a bit or leave them long and it is super comfy.

Ganz Measuring Cup Set and Ganz Measuring Spoons

I have always wanted a set of measuring cups and spoons like Paula Deen uses, but those are really really pricey.  My mom gave me these super cute stainless steel measuring cups and spoons for Christmas last year which are very similar to the ones Paula uses (except for the one cup) and I just love them.

Miss Kay's Duck Commander Kitchen Cookbook

If you are a Duck Dynasty fan, then you need this book.  I loved reading through every single story in this book, plus it is full of delicious recipes.  

iHome iPad Bluetooth Keyboard

My mom bought herself one of these and I kind of stole it from her :)  I was planning to just borrow it while my laptop was broken back in February, but I still haven't given it back.  It is much easier to pack around with you to work or on vacation than a big laptop.  You can plug in the keyboard to recharge it and don't have to buy pricey batteries.

  

Mr. Coffee Cocomotion Hot Chocolate Maker

I actually have a Cocolatte, but since they don't make those anymore, I figured I would share the Cocomotion.  You can use this to make hot chocolate or even to heat up water for other uses.  Much easier than turning on the stove and the kids can do it.

Kirkland Signature Hard-Anodized Aluminum Cookware Set from Costco

My Sweetie surprised me with these pans last year for Christmas and I am so happy with them.  They are a heavy pan that actually sit flat on my flat stovetop, unlike my last set of celebrity pans.

Paper Straws

Who doesn't love paper straws?  They are a perfect stocking stuffer and would go great with that Cocomotion up above.

Old Navy Velour Lounge Pants and Jacket

I have these pants and matching zipper jacket in a few different colors.  Perfect for these cold winter nights here in Utah.

Bed Head Recovery Shampoo & Conditioner

My Mother-In-Law gave me this shampoo and conditioner last year for Christmas and it makes my hair  so soft and it smells amazing.

Watkins Double Strength Vanilla

My all-time favorite vanilla extract.  Nothing even comes close in my opinion.

Hobo Wallet

Oh how I love my Hobo wallet.  It is on the pricey side, but so worth it.  Mine is a light blue color, but I am loving this green color and I think someone should buy me this :)

That 70's Show Complete Set

I laugh my head off at this show.  I have a few of the seasons on DVD, but now they have the complete 8 season set for under $30.  

The America's Test Kitchen Cooking School Cookbook

My Mother-In-Law bought me this book.  ATK is one of my favorite trusted recipe sources and this book will teach you the "how's" and "why's" of cooking.  It has over 600 recipes.

OtterBox iPhone Case

This case is heavy-duty, but not bulky.  If you own an iPhone, then you know how fragile they are if dropped.  A sturdy case is a must.  Just make sure to buy the case for your model.    

Muffin Top Pan

Everyone knows the muffin top is the best part of the muffin.  Get right to it with this muffin top pan.

Victoria's Secret Perfume Gift Set

This is perfect if you want to give someone perfume, but have no idea what scents they like.  Most girls like to have options and change up their perfume depending on where they are going, so this is exactly what they need. 

Snapware

I bought this set over a year ago and threw out all of my old containers.  They have held up very well and I use them constantly.    

Downy Unstopables

This might seem like an odd gift idea, but I think it is a great stocking stuffer.  I have been using these in my laundry since they came out and I can't get over how good my clothes smell.  Even after they have been hanging in my closet for weeks and weeks, they still smell as fresh as ever.  You can also put these in your candle melter and your house will smell amazing.  The Fresh scent that is pictured is my favorite scent so far.

Bath & Body Works Products

Okay, I know, this is an obvious gift idea.  I love Bath & Body Works.  I especially love their shower gels and body sprays.  My current favorite scents are Winter Candy Apple, Warm Vanilla Sugar, White Citrus, Black Amethyst (only available online) and Cashmere Glow.

Sheet Pan Lids
Everyone asks me where I got my sheet pan lids.  Well . . . at Gygi's in SLC and you can order them online.  They snap onto your sheet pan's perfectly.  I also purchased my sheet pans at Gygi's. 

Rescue Me Complete Set
I have so many different T.V. series that I love - I could go on and on.  Rescue Me is one of my favorites and I was so sad when it was over.

4 Silicone Spatulas for $5
I have given these spatulas to several different people as gifts.  I also own a set and you really can not beat that price.

Vanilla Bean Paste
Don't we all love vanilla bean flavor?  I always have this on hand and I love the pretty black speckles it gives my treats.

From Mama's Table to Mine
I love this cookbook.  All the recipes are healthier, but still delicious.  I have tried quite a few and have liked them all.

My Malibu Chicken

Apparently Sizzler has this chicken called Malibu Chicken.  I found a "copycat" recipe in one of my favorite cookbooks (Favorite Family Recipes).  It pretty much is like a crispy, super juicy, and flavorful version of a chicken cordon bleu and it's dipped in honey mustard sauce. 

I, of course, had to change up the recipe to my own taste.  I have no clue if it tastes anything like Sizzler's version?  If you want the original recipe, click HERE to check it out.

This chicken turned out darn near perfect.  Every single thing about it was mouthwatering from the crunchy cheesy bread crumb crust, to the juicy chicken to the ham and melted Swiss on top.  I served it alongside these Roasted Ranch Veggies and it was a meal to remember.  

"The Mr." kept telling me "This is SOOOOOO Good" and I couldn't agree more.   

Malibu Chicken

From: Jenn@eatcakefordinner
(Printable Recipe) or (Printable with Picture)

2 Tbl. vegetable oil

2 chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally

1 tsp. poultry seasoning

1 tsp. lemon pepper

2 eggs

1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1 c. Panko bread crumbs

1/4 c. freshly grated Parmesan

1 tsp. dried parsley

1 tsp. Johnny's Garlic seasoning (or garlic powder)

pepper

8 thin slices black forest ham

Swiss cheese, sliced

Honey Mustard

1/3 c. Mayonnaise (I use light)

1 Tbl. mustard

1 Tbl. Dijon mustard

1 Tbl. honey

1/2 Tbl. fresh lemon juice

a few dashes of Worcestershire

salt and pepper, to taste

Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.  Slice chicken breasts in half horizontally, so you have four chicken cutlets.  Rub each cutlet with 1/4 teaspoon of poultry seasoning and 1/4 teaspoon of lemon pepper; set aside.  Whisk the eggs in a shallow dish.  Place the all-purpose flour in a separate shallow dish and combine the Panko, grated Parmesan, parsley, Johnny's Garlic seasoning and pepper to a 3rd shallow dish.   

Dip seasoned cutlets into the flour, then the egg and last in the Panko mixture, pressing to adhere.  Place cutlets into the hot skillet.  If your skillet is not large enough, you will need to cook the chicken in batches.  Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.  Flip and cook on the other side until browned and chicken reaches 165 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, about 5-7 minutes.  

Top each cutlet with a little Swiss cheese, two slices of ham each and then more cheese on top.  Place skillet in a warm 350 degree oven for a few minutes or until cheese is melted.  Remove from oven and serve with honey mustard.  

For the Honey Mustard: Stir together all ingredients.  Taste and adjust as needed.  

Jenn's Notes: It is easiest to slice the chicken in half horizontally while they are still partially frozen.

Linked up at Weekend Potluck!

Creamy Turkey {or Chicken} and Bacon Wild Rice Soup

Are you all sick of turkey?  That's okay, you can always use chicken in this soup instead.

Even though I didn't cook the turkey this Thanksgiving, I was still sent home with leftovers, which was awesome.  I really wanted to make these Turkey Cheesesteaks AGAIN, but I had to make something with the ingredients I had on hand.  Yes, I always have bacon on hand . . . don't you?  

After seeing on the news that the weather is going to drop big-time this week (welcome to December), a soup needed to happen in my kitchen.   

This is a very thick and creamy soup with warm comforting flavors.

It's hearty enough that you can eat it as is, but I always prefer mine with sliced French bread or crackers.

Creamy Turkey & Bacon Wild Rice Soup

From: Jenn@eatcakefordinner
(Printable Recipe) or (Printable with Picture)

1 (6 oz.) box Uncle Ben's Long Grain & Wild Rice

  Original Recipe with 23 herbs and seasonings

2 (14.5 oz.) cans low-sodium chicken broth

1 c. water, plus more, if needed

4 Tbl. unsalted butter

1/3 c. finely chopped onion

1 clove garlic, minced

6 Tbl. all-purpose flour

2 c. half-and-half (I used fat-free)
1 1/2 - 2 c. chopped leftover turkey (or cubed cooked chicken)

1 (2 oz.) jar chopped pimientos, undrained

1 Tbl. Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp. poultry seasoning

pepper, to taste

4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled, for garnish

3 Tbl. finely chopped green onions, for garnish

In a large pot, combine rice, the seasoning mix that comes with the rice, one can of chicken broth and one cup of water.  Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer until rice is tender, about 25 minutes.  Meanwhile, in a separate medium-size saucepan, melt the butter and add the chopped onions and minced garlic.  Saute for a minute and then slowly whisk in the flour.  It should form a thick paste.  Continue cooking for several minutes, stirring occasionally.  Gradually whisk in two cups of half-and-half and cook until thickened.  Mine was extremely thick.    

When rice has finished cooking, add the half-and-half mixture to the pan with the rice along with the chopped turkey, pimientos, remaining can of chicken broth, Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning and pepper.  Stir together until well combined.  Cook over medium heat until thickened.  Reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, but the longer the better.  I let mine simmer for several hours.  Don't forget to stir occasionally, so it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan.  If soup gets too thick, add water until it reaches desired consistency.  Garnish with crumbled bacon and green onions.  Serve with sliced french bread or crackers.  Makes 4 servings.    

Jenn's Notes: You can use a different brand of wild rice if you need to, but Uncle Ben's comes with a super flavorful seasoning packet.  If your brand does not come with that, your soup might not be as flavorful.

idea adapted from: Pinch of Yum