NATURAL, TIE DYED & SPECKLED EASTER EGGS!

TIE DYED EASTER EGGS

Want an easy, fun way to decorate your Easter eggs this year?

SUPPLIES:

Eggs, hard-boiled, boiled in a saucepan of water with 1 tbsp of vinegar added
or blown eggs
food coloring in assorted colors
paper towels
plastic wrap
old shirt or apron

INSTRUCTIONS:

This is such an easy way to make tie dyed Easter eggs - and very pretty too.

Boil your eggs or blow the eggs out if you wish to keep them permanently.

To blow out an egg:
Poke a small hole in each end of the egg. Use a long needle or skewer to break the yoke. Hold the egg over a bowl and blow hard through one hole until the egg has emptied out of the shell. Rinse with water, let dry, and decorate.

To Tie Die Eggs:
Take a paper towel and dampen the towel with water and vinegar, making sure it is just damp.
Place a piece of plastic wrap under the paper towel.
Drip small drops of food coloring onto the paper towel. Allow colors to drop next to each other so they bleed slightly together. Make sure there is enough area with food color to cover egg.
Wrap an egg in the paper towel and the plastic wrap. The longer you keep the egg in the brighter the egg will get.
Repeat until all your eggs are tie dyed. Every one will be different, but all of them will be pretty.
By Twila Lenoir

NATURALLY DYED EASTER EGGS

The most beautiful dyes for Easter eggs come from foodstuff you probably already have in your kitchen. The colors are very unusual -- gentle, earthy, soft, and very vibrant, without being harsh like the artificial dyes.


To color these eggs, you boil the eggs with the dyestuff, rather than boiling the eggs separately and then dying them.

DIRECTIONS:
Put raw, white-shelled, organically-raised eggs in a single layer in a pan. Cover with cold water. Add a little more than a teaspoon of white vinegar. Add the natural dyestuff for the color you want your eggs to be. (The more eggs you are dying at a time, the more dye you will need to use, and the more dye you use, the darker the color will be.)

Bring water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Quickly check the eggs for color by removing them from the dye liquid with a slotted spoon.

If the color is as desired, pour off the hot dye liquid and rinse the eggs immediately in cold water to stop the eggs from cooking. Continue to change the water until it stays cool in the pot because the eggs are no longer releasing heat. Drain and allow eggs to cool in the refrigerator.

If you wish a deeper color, strain the hot dye liquid into a container, then rinse the eggs immediately in cold water to stop them from cooking. Continue to change the water until it stays cool in the pot because the eggs are no longer releasing heat. Drain the last of the cold water, then cover the eggs with the strained dye liquid. Add more water if necessary so that the eggs are completely covered. Put into the refrigerator immediately and keep eggs in the refrigerator until the desired shade is achieved. Overnight is good. Longer than about twelve hours some of the colors just get muddier instead of deeper, and the lighter shades are more vibrant.

Try these foods to dye your eggs:
Red - Pink -- lots of red onion skins, cranberry juice, or frozen raspberries.
Orange -- Yellow onion skins
Brown -- Red beet skins or grape juice (produces a beautiful sparkling tan), coffee.
Yellow -- Saffron, tumeric or cumin, orange or lemon peels, or celery seed.
Green -- spinach, or carrot tops and peels from Yellow Delicious apples for a yellow-green.
Blue -- Red cabbage leaves make the most incredible robin's-egg blue.
Deep Purple -- Red wine makes a beautiful burgundy color

Tips for successful results:
Use filtered or distilled water. Chlorine and other chemicals will work against the dye, making it less intense. Buy distilled water or use your own filtered water.

For deeper colors, use more dyestuff or let the eggs soak longer. For even coverage, cook eggs in a pot large enough to hold enough water and dyestuff to completely cover the eggs, even after some of the liquid has evaporated during the 15 minute of boiling.

Again, for even coverage, if you continue to soak the eggs in the refrigerator after cooking, make sure the eggs are completely covered with the dye liquid. Blot the eggs dry or allow them to air dry, as for some colors the dye will rub off while still wet. On the other hand, if you wish to make a white pattern on the egg, you can rub off some of the dye for some colors immediately after cooking.

Make sure eggs of different colors are completely dry before piling them up in a bowl together, as wet dye from one egg can transfer to another.
By Debra Lynn Dadd

SPECKLED EASTER EGGS

This method of decorating Easter eggs is very messy - but lots of fun! Just to be sure to wear an apron and spread lots of newspaper around your work surface to catch the flying paint.

SUPPLIES:

hard boiled eggs
egg dye
tempra, watercolor or craft paint or food coloring
old toothbrush
Speckled Eggs

INSTRUCTIONS:

If you want to begin with colored eggs, then dye the eggs using commercial egg dye or natural egg dye.
Spread newspaper over your work surface. It's also a good idea to protect the front of your clothes with an apron or smock.
Dip the toothbrush in a small amount of paint or dye in a contrasting color.
Run your finger or thumb over the top of the toothbrush bristles to splatter the eggs with small drops of color.

Variations: You can wash the toothbrush and use a second or third color to make speckled eggs with lots of different colors.
by Jane Lake

For more crafts like these check out All Free Crafts

YUMMY EASTER DESSERTS!

RAINBOW SHERBET DESSERT

Macaroons, pecans and layers of fruity sherbet combine in this beautiful, special dessert.

INGREDIENTS:
12 macaroon cookies, crumbled
2 cups heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
1 pint each raspberry, lime and orange sherbet, softened

DIRECTIONS:
Sprinkle cookie crumbs onto an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 5-8 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely.
In a large bowl, beat cream until it begins to thicken. Add confectioners' sugar and vanilla; beat until stiff peaks form. Combine cookie crumbs and pecans; fold in whipped cream. Spread half of cream mixture onto the bottom of an ungreased 9-in. springform pan. Freeze for 30 minutes.
Gently spread raspberry sherbet over cream layer. Layer with lime and orange sherbets; spread with remaining cream mixture. Cover and freeze until firm. Remove from the freezer 10 minutes before serving. Remove sides of pan.

STRAWBERRY-BANANA ANGEL TORTE

It's a perfect ending to a spring meal!

INGREDIENTS:
1 prepared angel food cake (8 to 10 ounces)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup pureed fresh strawberries
3/4 cup sliced ripe bananas
1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries
1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped
Halved fresh strawberries

DIRECTIONS:
Split cake horizontally into three layers; place bottom layer on a serving plate. In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, sugar and pureed strawberries; fold in bananas and sliced strawberries. Fold in whipped cream.
Spread a third of the filling between each layer; spread remaining filling over top. Cover and refrigerate until serving. Garnish with halved strawberries.

BREEZY LEMON-BERRY DESSERT

The combination of berries and lemon, make this a light, refreshing and tasty dessert!

INGREDIENTS:
2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
1/2 cup cold water
1 package (3 ounces) ladyfingers, split
1-1/2 cups fat-free milk
1/2 cup refrigerated French vanilla nondairy creamer
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant lemon pudding mix
1 carton (12 ounces) frozen reduced-fat whipped topping, thawed, divided
3 cups mixed fresh berries
2 cups sliced fresh strawberries

DIRECTIONS:
In a small saucepan, sprinkle gelatin over cold water; let stand for 1 minute. Heat over low heat, stirring until gelatin is completely dissolved. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Cut ladyfingers in half widthwise; arrange cut side down around the sides of an ungreased 9-in. springform pan. Place remaining ladyfingers in the bottom of the pan (bottom will not be completely covered).
In a large bowl, whisk the milk, creamer and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. Stir in gelatin mixture. Fold in 3 cups whipped topping.
Spread 2 cups of filling evenly into prepared pan; top with mixed berries. Spread with remaining filling (filling will be higher than ladyfinger border). Cover and refrigerate for 5 hours or until set. Garnish with remaining whipped topping and the strawberries.
Recipes from Taste Of Home

COMFORT FOOD-GROWN UP'S MAC & CHEESE!

BUFFALO-CHICKEN MACARONI & CHEESE

The hot sauce and blue cheese definitely give it that extra kick!

INGREDIENTS:
7 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for the dish
Kosher salt
1 pound elbow macaroni
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup hot sauce (preferably Frank's)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons dry mustard
2 1/2 cups half-and-half
1 pound yellow sharp cheddar cheese , cut into 1-inch cubes (about 3 1/2 cups)
8 ounces pepper jack cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)
2/3 cup sour cream
1 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs)
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and butter a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain.
Meanwhile, melt 3 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the chicken and garlic and cook 2 minutes, then add 1/2 cup hot sauce and simmer until slightly thickened, about 1 more minute.
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and mustard with a wooden spoon until smooth. Whisk in the half-and-half, then add the remaining 1/4 cup hot sauce and stir until thick, about 2 minutes. Whisk in the cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, then whisk in the sour cream until smooth.
Spread half of the macaroni in the prepared baking dish, then top with the chicken mixture and the remaining macaroni. Pour the cheese sauce evenly on top.
Put the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl and microwave until melted. Stir in the panko, blue cheese and parsley. Sprinkle over the macaroni and bake until bubbly, 30 to 40 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Recipe from Food Network Magazine

MAC DADDY MACARONI & CHEESE

A wonderful, flavorful, creamy macaroni & cheese!

INGREDIENTS:
2 shallots, peeled
3 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon olive oil
3 pieces bacon, diced, cooked, reserving 1 tablespoon bacon fat
2 tablespoons flour
4 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 pound penne pasta, cooked
1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
2 tbsp. melted butter
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Place shallots and garlic in a small aluminum foil pouch and drizzle with olive oil. Roast 20 to 30 minutes or until tender. Remove from foil and chop. In a large saute pan, reheat reserved bacon fat over medium heat. Add roasted shallot and garlic and saute for 1 minute. Add flour and stir for 1minute. Whisk in heavy cream and thyme. Reduce by a third. Stir in cheeses until melted, creamy and thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and gently stir in pasta. Place in a 9X13 casserole dish. In a small bowl, mix together diced bacon, bread crumbs, butter and parsley. Top Mac n Cheese with Panko mixture and bake uncovered at same heat until bubbling and lightly browned on top, 20to 25 minutes.
Recipe from Guy Fieri

ITALIAN MAC-N-CHEESE

This is a really fantastic combination of flavors and ease of cooking!

INGREDIENTS:
1 pound ziti rigate, penne rigate or cavatappi (ribbed, hollow corkscrews)
1 pound Italian bulk sweet sausage
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 or 4 cloves garlic, chopped
12 crimini mushrooms, sliced
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream
1 (10-ounce) sack, 2 1/2 cups, shredded Italian 4 cheese blend, available on dairy aisle
1 can diced tomatoes, drained well
1 teaspoon hot sauce (recommended: Tabasco), optional
1/2 cup Parmesan, a couple of handfuls

DIRECTIONS:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt water and cook pasta to a chewy al dente, about 8 minutes.
In a nonstick skillet, brown and crumble the sausage. Drain cooked crumbles on paper towel lined plate. Return pan to heat and add extra-virgin olive oil, butter, garlic and mushrooms. Season liberally with salt and pepper. Saute 3 to 5 minutes, until mushrooms are lightly golden.
Preheat broiler to high.
To mushrooms, add flour and stir, cooking 2 minutes. Whisk in stock, then stir in cream. Bring cream to a bubble, then stir in 2 cups of 4 cheese blend. When cheese has melted into sauce, add tomatoes. When sauce comes to a bubble, remove from heat and adjust seasonings, adding hot sauce if desired.
Combine cheese sauce with sausage and pasta, transfer to baking dish, casserole or oven safe serving platter. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup of 4 cheese blend and the grated Parmesan over the top and brown under hot broiler.
Recipe from Rachael Ray

FIVE DEVILED EGG RECIPES!

SOUTHWEST DEVILED EGGS

My grandson asked me to make deviled eggs and since he loves southwestern dishes I made 6 of these and 6 of the delicilous deviled eggs…This was the first time I have tried these and they were really good!

INGREDIENTS:
12 hard-cooked eggs, peeled
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 teaspoons Mustard, Ground
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon Cumin, Ground
1/2 teaspoon Chili Powder
1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper, Ground
Chives or chopped green onion (optional)

DIRECTIONS:
Slice eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks; place in small bowl. Mash yolks with fork or potato masher.
Stir in mayonnaise, mustard, seasoned salt, cumin, chili powder and ground red pepper until smooth and creamy. Spoon or pipe yolk mixture into egg white halves. Sprinkle lightly with additional chili powder and garnish with chives or chopped green onion, if desired.
Refrigerate 1 hour or until ready to serve.
To hard cook eggs: Gently place eggs in single layer in medium saucepan. Add enough cold water to cover eggs with 1 inch of water. Bring just to boil on medium-high heat. Remove from heat. Cover and let stand about 15 minutes for large eggs. (Adjust time up or down by 3 minutes for each size larger or smaller.) After 15 minutes, pour off the hot water and rapidly cool eggs by running them under cold water (or place in ice water) until completely cooled. Refrigerate and use within a week

DELICIOUS DEVILED EGGS

Spice up any summer barbeque or pot luck supper with these classic deviled eggs

INGREDIENTS:
6 hard-cooked eggs, peeled
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon Mustard, Ground
1/2 teaspoon Parsley Flakes
1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt
Paprika

DIRECTIONS:
Slice eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks; place in small bowl. Mash yolks with fork or potato masher.
Stir in mayonnaise, mustard, parsley and seasoned salt until smooth and creamy. Spoon or pipe yolk mixture into egg white halves. Sprinkle with paprika.
Refrigerate 1 hour or until ready to serve.

BUFFALO DEVILED EGGS

Everyone loves Buffalo Wings, now you can have Deviled Eggs with that great Buffalo taste!

INGREDIENTS:
12 hard boiled eggs – peeled
1/2 cup blue cheese – crumbled
1/2 cup mayonnaise
3 teaspoons dried parsley
2 celery stalks – finely minced
1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
Salt & Pepper – to taste
Chives or chopped green onion (optional)
Paprika (optional)

DIRECTIONS:
Cut peeled eggs in half length wise and place yolks in a mixing bowl, set the whites aside. Mash the yolks with the back of a fork and add blue cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, celery, and Tabasco. Mix well and salt and pepper to your liking.
Spoon or pipe the filling back into egg white. Sprinkle with chopped green onions.
Cover and refrigerate at least one hour before serving

DEVILED EGGS FROM HELL

My grandaughter's husband would love these eggs...Will have to make him some.
These eggs are hot!

INGREDIENTS:
12 hard boiled eggs
1/2 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons adobo sauce from Chipotle Chilies can
3 minced green onion stalks
2 teaspoons lime juice
salt & pepper to taste
cayenne powder

DIRECTIONS:
1. Cut peeled eggs in half length wise and place yolks in a mixing bowl, set the whites aside. Mash the yolks with the back of a fork and mayonnaise, adobo sauce, green onion, lime juice, salt and pepper. Mix well.
2. Spoon or pipe the filling back into egg white and sprinkle tops with cayenne.
3. Cover and refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
Recipes from The Deviled Egg

FRIED DEVILED EGGS

A great recipe. They are so easy to make and very good too. Great for finger foods!

INGREDIENTS:
1 dozen eggs
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
1 tablespoon chopped chives
Dash hot sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup all-purposeflour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup panko crumbs
Parsley, for garnish
Peanut oil, for frying

DIRECTIONS:
Add the eggs to a large saucepan filled with cold water. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let sit in the water for 14 minutes.
Peel the eggs and slice lengthwise. Remove the yolks to a bowl. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon zest, chives, hot sauce and salt and pepper. Mash the yolks together with a wooden spoon. Taste and adjust seasonings, if needed. Fill the egg yolk mixture into the egg whites.
Heat oil in a deep-fryer to 350 degrees F.
In a medium bowl, add 1 cup of flour and season with salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs, in a third bowl, add 1 cup of panko.
Dip the eggs into the flour, then the egg and finally into the panko. Gently put the eggs into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown. Remove to a paper towel lined sheet tray. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with parsley.
Recipe from The Neelys

DIPPED EASTER EGGS~EASTER EGG TREATS~BUNNY IN A CUP!

Thought these would be something festive to add to your Easter Gathering!

DIPPED EASTER EGGS

Does it get any better? Chocolate AND Rice Krispie treats!

INGREDIENTS:
3 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 package (10oz., about 40) regular marshmallows
OR
4 cups miniature marshmallows
6 cups Kellogg's® Rice Krispies® cereal
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate morsels or milk chocolate morsels
5 teaspoons shortening
Multi-colored sprinkles

DIRECTIONS:
In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.

Add KELLOGG'S RICE KRISPIES cereal. Stir until well coated.

Using 1/4-cup measuring cup coated with cooking spray divide warm cereal mixture into portions. Using buttered hands shape each portion into 2 1/2- x 1 1/2-inch egg shapes. (Or, coat insides of plastic snap-apart Easter eggs with cooking spray. Press cereal mixture into eggs. Remove cereal mixture from plastic eggs.) Cool.

In small saucepan combine chocolate morsels and shortening. Cook over low heat until melted, stirring constantly. Dip bottoms of cereal eggs into chocolate. Decorate with sprinkles. Place on wax-paper-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate until chocolate is firm. Individually wrap in plastic wrap. Best if served the same day.

MICROWAVE DIRECTIONS:
In microwave-safe bowl heat butter and marshmallows on HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Continue with recipe as directed above. Microwave cooking times may vary.
**For best results, use fresh marshmallows.
1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow crème can be substituted for marshmallows.
Diet, reduced calorie or tub margarine is not recommended.
Store no more than two days at room temperature in airtight container. To freeze, place in single layer on wax paper in airtight container. Freeze for up to 6 weeks. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

EASTER EGG TREATS

You can decorated these any which way with frosting, sprinkles, candy carrots etc:

INGREDIENTS:
3 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 package (10 oz., about 40) regular marshmallows
OR
4 cups miniature marshmallows
6 cups Rice Krispies®
OR
6 cups Ready-To-Eat Cereal Cocoa Krisp
Canned frosting or decorating gel
Assorted candies


DIRECTIONS:
In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.

Add KELLOGG'S RICE KRISPIES cereal. Stir until well coated.

Using 1/3-cup measuring cup coated with cooking spray divide warm cereal mixture into portions. Using buttered hands shape each portion into egg shape. Cool. Decorate with frosting and/or candies. Best if served the same day.

MICROWAVE DIRECTIONS:
In microwave-safe bowl heat butter and marshmallows on HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Follow steps 2 and 3 above. Microwave cooking times may vary.
**For best results, use fresh marshmallows.
1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow crème can be substituted for marshmallows.
Diet, reduced calorie or tub margarine is not recommended.
Store no more than two days at room temperature in airtight container. To freeze, place in single layer on wax paper in airtight container. Freeze for up to 6 weeks. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.
Recipes from KELLOGG'S RICE KRISPIES

BUNNY IN A CUP

Kids can help transform dishes of instant pudding into cute bunnies simply by adding store-bought sweets.

Ingredients:
2 cups cold milk
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 twists black licorice
1/4 cup vanilla frosting
Red liquid or paste food coloring
8 cream-filled oval vanilla sandwich cookies
8 green jelly beans
4 pink jelly beans

Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. Pour into four small bowls; cover and refrigerate.
Meanwhile, cut licorice widthwise into fourths, then lengthwise into thirds; set aside. Combine frosting and red food coloring; frost top of cookies to within 1/2-in. of edge.
Just before serving, insert tow cookies into each bowl of pudding for ears. Add green jelly beans for eyes and a pink jelly bean for nose. Place three pieces of licorice on each side of the nose for whiskers
Recipe from Taste of Home & Flo Burtnett

SWEETY BIRD~BEADY BABIES~EASTER BUNNY CUPCAKES~BARNYARD CUTIES!!

SWEETY BIRD

INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup white chocolate chips
1 Twinkie
Chocolate sprinkles
Orange frosting
2 candy lemon slices

DIRECTIONS:
To make a pair of nests, first spread 1/2 cup of shredded coconut on a cookie sheet and toast it under a broiler until golden brown, about 1 minute. Remove the coconut from the oven, stir it, then toast it for 30 seconds more. Repeat as needed until all of the coconut is evenly toasted, then let it cool.
Next, melt 1/4 cup of white chocolate chips in a double boiler according to the package directions. Remove the pan from the heat (keep the chocolate over the warm water) and stir in the coconut.
For the nestlings, lay a Twinkie flat on your work surface and cut it in half. Press 2 chocolate sprinkles into each half for eyes and pipe on orange frosting beaks. Let the beaks set a bit, then stand the chicks upright on waxed paper and spoon the warm coconut mixture around them, shaping it into rings. Lastly, use frosting to stick on trimmed candy lemon slices for wings.

BEADY BABIES

These baby chicks are so easy to make, you can have an entire clutch ready in time for Easter.

MATERIALS:
2 round wooden beads (we used one 16-millimeter and one 25-millimeter bead) with holes large enough for a doubled Pipe cleaner to fit through
6-inch pipe cleaners
Acrylic paint
Craft feather
Fine-point marker

INSTRUCTIONS:
First, paint the beads with acrylic paint. When they have dried, bend a 6-inch pipe cleaner in half, sandwiching the end of a tiny craft feather in the fold.
Thread the smaller bead onto the opposite end of the pipe cleaner and slide the bead up to hide the bottom of the feather.
Thread the larger bead onto the pipe cleaner, then bend the ends of the pipe cleaner into feet.
Finally, use a fine-point marker to give your little chick eyes and a tiny beak.

EASTER BUNNY CUPCAKES

Instructions
Frost a cupcake (baked from your favorite recipe) with white icing and sprinkle on shredded coconut fur.
Cut a large marshmallow in half widthwise. Squeeze each half slightly to give it an oval shape, then decorate the sticky side of each one with pink decorators' sugar and set them in place for ears.
Add a jelly bean nose and either jelly bean or snipped Sweet Tart eyes, and mini marshmallows for cheeks. For a finishing touch, draw on decorators' gel pupils or whiskers if you like.

BARNYARD CUTTIES

This barnyard trio makes a great project for Easter, but the roly-poly pals are fun to play with any time of year.

MATERIALS:
3 Styrofoam eggs
Tacky glue
Fluffy, curly, and smooth yarn
Scissors Felt
Black ball-head straight pins
Extra-fine permanent marker

INSTRUCTIONS:
Flatten the rounded end of each egg by pressing it on a hard surface. Hold this end and drizzle glue on the opposite half. Press the end of the yarn into the glue at the egg's tip and spiral it around the egg. When you reach the midpoint, cut the yarn.
Apply glue to the egg's uncovered half and wrap as before, again working toward the middle.
Cut ears, a pig nose, and faces from felt. To make ear creases, dab glue on the ear's bottom edge and pinch from the back. Pin the creases in place until the glue sets.
Glue the ears and pig nose to the faces and attach the faces to the eggs' flat ends. Use ball-head pins for eyes, then draw on noses and mouths with a marker.
For more fun projects click on Family Fun

BUNNY CUPCAKES

BUNNY CUPCAKES

These cute-as-can-be cupcakes are perfect for spring celebrations, Easter, baby showers and birthday parties!

INGREDIENTS:
1 container (16 ounces) vanilla frosting
McCormick® Assorted Food Colors and Egg Dye or McCormick® Assorted NEON! Food Colors and Egg Dye
2 cups flaked coconut
12 unfrosted cupcakes
12 plain donut holes
12 large marshmallows
6 pink jelly beans, halved crosswise
Chocolate sprinkles
Miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS:
Tint frosting pink or blue, using 4 drops red or 4 drops NEON blue food color. Place coconut in resealable plastic bag. Add 4 drops red or 4 drops NEON blue food color to coconut in bag; shake until coconut is evenly tinted.

Spread top of each cupcake with tinted frosting. Press each cupcake into tinted coconut to cover top completely. Spread donut holes with remaining frosting. Press a donut hole into top of each cupcake to form the bunny’s head.

For the ears, cut a 1/4-inch slice off the flat ends of each marshmallow to make 24 slices. Dip cut sides of the marshmallow slices into the coconut until completely covered. (Reserve remaining marshmallow pieces.) Attach 2 marshmallow slices to the head of each bunny with frosting to create ears.

Press a jelly bean half into the face for the nose and sprinkles for the whiskers. Use the chocolate chips for the eyes. Press the plain marshmallow pieces into the cupcakes for the belly.
TIPS:
To make 6 each pink and blue cupcakes, use 2 drops of each food color in each half batch of frosting and coconut.

For ease in frosting donut holes, first insert small wooden skewer into donut. Use skewer as a handle when frosting donut. Invert frosted donut onto cupcake then remove skewer.
Recipe from McCormicks

BEEF TACO BAKE

BEEF TACO BAKE

My granddaughter Malinda Sue gave me this recipe and my grandson David (he lives with me) made it last night…You simply have to make this…It is so simple to make and soooo good to eat…It was even better today…

INGREDIENTS:
2 cans of Ro-Tel tomatoes with green chilies drained (reserve 1/2 cup juice)
1 can refried beans
1 tablespoon hot sauce…(David used 2 tablespoons of Frank's Hot Sauce)
1/4 cup chopped cilantro
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
12 taco shells
1-1/2 pounds ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix
3 green onions chopped

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 475 degrees.
Mix 1 can tomatoes, refried beans, hot sauce and cilantro in a bowl.
Spread evenly over bottom of rectangular baking dish and top with 1 cup cheese.
Cook ground beef in skillet until no longer pink.
Drain off any fat and add taco seasoning.
Fill each taco shell with some cheese and beef.
Place in bean mixture so standing upright.
Once all shells are filled cover pan with foil and bake 10 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 6 minutes until cheese melts.
Sprinkle with the chopped green onions & serve.

BROILED LEMON-GARLIC CHICKEN~CHICKEN ENCHILADAS~S'MORE BROWNIES

BROILED LEMON-GARLIC CHICKEN

This chicken is juicy and delicious!

INGREDIENTS:
2 lemons
2 tablespoons unsalted butter , at room temperature
2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
2 half chickens (3 to 3 1/4 pounds total)

DIRECTIONS:
Position an oven rack about 8 to 10 inches from the broiler and preheat. Grate the lemon zest and combine in a small bowl with the butter, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste. Mash with a fork to make a smooth paste.
With your fingers, gently loosen the skin on the chicken breasts, legs and thighs. Spread the flavored butter under the skin as evenly as possible. Halve the lemons and squeeze 2 halves over the chicken; season with salt and pepper.
Place the chicken skin-side up on a broiler pan (or a rack on a baking sheet). Position the halves about 2 inches apart with the thick parts of the legs facing the center. Arrange the remaining 2 lemon halves cut-side down next to the chicken.
Broil the chicken until the skin is light brown and crisp, about 8 minutes. If the chicken browns too quickly, lower the oven rack. Flip the chicken and the lemons and continue to broil until almost cooked through (a thermometer inserted into the thickest part will register 160 degrees), about 15 minutes. Remove the lemons, if browned; turn the chicken again and broil until the skin is brown and crisp and the thermometer registers 165 degrees, about 2 more minutes. Serve the chicken with the broiled lemons for squeezing on top.
Recipe from Food Network

CHICKEN ENCHILADAS

This dish is easy to make with great flavor and texture!

INGREDIENTS:
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/2 pounds skinless boneless chicken breast
Salt and pepper
2 teaspoons cumin powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon Mexican Spice Blend
1 red onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
5 canned whole green chiles, seeded and coarsely chopped
4 canned chipotle chiles, seeded and minced
1 (28-ounce) can stewed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon all-purpose flour
16 corn tortillas
1 1/2 cups enchilada sauce, canned
1 cup shredded Cheddar and Jack cheeses
Garnish: chopped cilantro leaves, chopped scallions, sour cream, chopped tomatoes

DIRECTIONS:
Coat large saute pan with oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Brown chicken over medium heat, allow 7 minutes each side or until no longer pink. Sprinkle chicken with cumin, garlic powder and Mexican spices before turning. Remove chicken to a platter, allow to cool.
Saute onion and garlic in chicken drippings until tender. Add corn and chiles. Stir well to combine. Add canned tomatoes, saute 1 minute.
Pull chicken breasts apart by hand into shredded strips. Add shredded chicken to saute pan, combine with vegetables. Dust the mixture with flour to help set.
Microwave tortillas on high for 30 seconds. This softens them and makes them more pliable. Coat the bottom of 2 (13 by 9-inch) pans with a ladle of enchilada sauce. Using a large shallow bowl, dip each tortilla in enchilada sauce to lightly coat. Spoon 1/4 cup chicken mixture in each tortilla. Fold over filling, place 8 enchiladas in each pan with seam side down. Top with remaining enchilada sauce and cheese.
Bake for 15 minutes in a preheated 350 degree F oven until cheese melts. Garnish with cilantro, scallion, sour cream and chopped tomatoes before serving. Serve with Spanish rice and beans.
Recipe from Tyler Florence

S’MORE BROWNIES

Rich and delicious! This is a great dessert for entertaining!

Ingredients
CRUST:
6 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted
1 1/2 cups crushed graham cracker crumbs
2 tablespoons sugar
pinch of fine salt
BROWNIE:
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter
4 ounces unsweetened chocolate , chopped
1 cup packed light brown sugar
3/4 cup white sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon fine salt
4 large cold eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
Topping:
4 cups large marshmallows

DIRECTIONS:
Position a rack in the lower third of the oven and heat oven to 325 degrees F. Line an 8 by-8-inch square baking pan with foil so it hangs over the edges by about 1 inch.
For the crust: Lightly butter the foil with some of the melted butter. Stir the rest of the butter together with the crumbs, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Press the crumb mixture evenly over the bottom of the pan. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, make the brownie. Put the butter and chocolate in a medium microwave safe bowl. Melt in the microwave on 75 percent power for 2 minutes. Stir, and microwave again until completely melted, about 2 minutes more. Alternatively, put the butter and chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Bring a saucepan filled with 1 inch or so of water to a very slow simmer; set the bowl on the pan without touching the water. Stir occasionally until melted. Stir the light brown and white sugars, vanilla and salt into the melted chocolate. Add the eggs and beat vigorously to make a thick and glossy batter. Add the flour and stir until just incorporated.
Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake until the top is crispy and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out mostly clean, with a few crumbs, about 40 to 45 minutes.
Remove from the oven and carefully position a rack about 6 inches from the broiler and preheat on low. Layer marshmallows across the top and toast under the broiler until golden, (keep an eye on it, it can go quick), about 2 minutes. Cool on a rack, gently removing the brownies from the pan using the aluminum flaps. Carefully separate any marshmallow from the foil and fold away. Cut into 12 (2-inch) squares.
Recipe from Food Network

SLOW COOKER LASAGNA~ALFREDO~PULLED PORK SANDWICHES!

SLOW COOKER ITALIAN CHICKEN ALFREDO

You can make this recipe with ingredients on hand and it will instantly became a family favorite!

INGREDIENTS:
cooking spray
4 (4 ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1/4 cup water
1 (.7 ounce) package dry Italian-style salad dressing mix
1 clove garlic, pressed
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 (8 ounce) package spaghetti
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

DIRECTIONS
Spray the crock of a slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray. Place chicken breasts in crock. Combine Italian dressing mix, and water in a small bowl. Pour over chicken; sprinkle with garlic, cover, and cook on Low 4 hours.
After 4 hours, whisk softened cream cheese and cream of chicken soup together in a bowl. Pour over chicken; stir in mushrooms. Cover and cook on Low for 1 additional hour.
Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the spaghetti, and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta has cooked through, but is still firm to the bite, about 12 minutes. Drain well in a colander set in the sink.
To serve, spoon chicken and sauce over hot cooked pasta and sprinkle with parsley.
Recipe by TLSmith

SLOW COOKER BBQ PORK FOR SANDWICHES

"This is so easy and very tasty. Serve on buns with potato chips & cole slaw."

INGREDIENTS:
1 (14 ounce) can beef broth
3 pounds boneless pork ribs
1 (18 ounce) bottle barbeque sauce

DIRECTIONS:
Pour can of beef broth into slow cooker, and add boneless pork ribs. Cook on High heat for 4 hours, or until meat shreds easily. Remove meat, and shred with two forks. It will seem that it's not working right away, but it will.
2Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Transfer the shredded pork to a Dutch oven or iron skillet, and stir in barbeque sauce.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until heated through.
By: KMB233

SLOW COOKER LASAGNA

"This recipe is so easy, you might think that you are doing something wrong. It is delicious!"

INGREDIENTS:
1 pound lean ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 teaspoons minced garlic
3 cups jarred spaghetti sauce
1 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 (12 ounce) package lasagna noodles
12 ounces ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
16 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
6 quart slow cooker

DIRECTIONS:
In a large skillet over medium heat cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until brown. Add the jarred spaghetti sauce,water, salt, and oregano and stir until well incorporated. Cook until heated through.
In a large bowl mix together the ricotta cheese,egg,grated Parmesan cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Spoon a layer of the meat mixture onto the bottom of the slow cooker. Add a double layer of the uncooked lasagna noodles. Break to fit noodles into slow cooker. Top noodles with a portion of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layering of sauce, noodles, and cheese until all the ingredients are used.
Cover, and cook on LOW setting for 4 hours.

STUFFED BURGERS~CORN BEEF & CABBAGE~CHUCKWAGON STEW

Bacon, Onion and Cheese Stuffed Burger

With these burgers the secret is inside. By stuffing your burger patties with everything from cheese and bacon to mushrooms and onions you can make an extra special burger that is sure to impress anyone, after all, your local burger joint probably can't make patties like these.

INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon hot sauce (recommended: Frank's Red Hot)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 strips bacon, diced
1/2 onion, chopped
1 cup grated sharp Cheddar
4 burger buns
Lettuce, tomato, pickles for garnish

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat grill to medium.
In a bowl combine beef, garlic, hot sauce, salt and pepper, to taste, being careful not to over mix. Warm a skillet over medium heat and fry bacon until crispy. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep heat on skillet and fry a pinch of the beef in the bacon fat to test seasoning. Adjust seasoning, if needed, then form 8 even thin patties, about 1/2-inch thick and set aside. Sauté onions in bacon fat in skillet until tender, 5 minutes. Place onions and bacon in a bowl with cheese. Form a spoonful of bacon-cheese mixture into a ball, then place in the center of 4 patties. Top each with another patty and seal the edges. Grill burgers over medium-high heat, flipping once until desired doneness is reached, approximately 4 minutes each side for medium. Serve in buns with garnishes. Alternative: In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, sear the burgers 4 minutes on each side.
Recipe from Sunny Anderson

CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE

INGREDIENTS:
1 (3-pound) corned beef brisket (uncooked), in brine
16 cups cold water
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons black peppercorns
4 whole allspice berries
2 whole cloves
1/2 large head green cabbage (about 2 pounds), cut into 8 thick wedges
8 small new potatoes (about 1 1/4 pounds), halved
Freshly ground black pepper
Serving suggestion: Whole-grain mustard or HORSERADISH SAUCE, recipe follows

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F.
Place the corned beef in a colander in the sink and rinse well under cold running water.
Place the corned beef in a large Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid; add the water, bay leaves, peppercorns, allspice, and cloves. Bring to a boil, uncovered, and skim off any scum that rises to the surface. Cover and transfer pan to the oven, and braise until very tender, about 3 hours and 45 minutes.
Transfer the corned beef to a cutting board and cover tightly with foil to keep warm. Add the cabbage and potatoes to the cooking liquid and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cabbage to a large platter. Slice the corned beef across the grain of the meat into thin slices. Lay the slices over the cabbage and surround it with the potatoes. Ladle some of the hot cooking liquid over the corned beef and season with pepper. Serve immediately with the mustard or horseradish sauce.
Note: Leftover corned beef makes great corned beef hash!


HORSERADISH SAUCE:
3/4 cup mayonnaise
3/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons jarred grated horseradish (with liquid)
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
2 teaspoons kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, horseradish, zest, and 2 teaspoons salt. Season generously with pepper to taste. Refrigerate the horseradish sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving.


CHUCKWAGON BEEF STEW

INGREDIENTS:
4 pounds lean beef, cubed
4 tablespoons oil
2 cloves garlic, chopped
4 cups hot water
2 large cans tomatoes
2 thin slices lemon
4 medium onions, sliced
2 tablespoons salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
6 tablespoons sugar
12 medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
9 to 10 medium potatoes , quartered
Dash cloves
1/2 teaspoon dried basil leaves
2 cans English peas

DIRECTIONS:
In a skillet, brown beef well in oil. When cooked, transfer to a large Dutch oven and mix in garlic well. Add water, tomatoes, lemon, onions, salt, pepper, and sugar. Mix well and simmer 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add carrots, potatoes, cloves, and crushed basil leaves. Cover and cook until vegetables are tender. Add canned peas and heat. If necessary, to thicken gravy, thicken with flour, dissolved in water. Serve hot
Recipes from Food Network

CITRUS DESSERTS

CREAMSICLE CHEESECAKE

INGREDIENTS:
1 graham cracker pie crust
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 (6 ounce) can frozen orange juice
1 can sweetened condensed milk
10 ounces Cool Whip

DIRECTIONS:
Mix cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk and orange juice with mixer. Fold in Cool Whip. Pour into crust and chill 1 hour.
Recipe from Church cookbook

HEAVENLY ORANGE CAKE

INGREDIENTS:
2 1/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
5 large eggs, separated
3/4 cup orange juice
1/4 cup grated orange peel
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 cup orange marmalade, melted
Candied orange peel strips

DIRECTIONS:
Heat oven to 325 degrees F.
Mix together flour, baking powder and salt.
Beat together sugar and oil at medium speed until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition.
At low speed, alternately beat flour mixture and orange juice into egg mixture until smooth. Stir in orange peel.
Using clean beaters, beat together egg whites and cream of tartar at high speed until stiff, but not dry, peaks form.
Fold one-quarter of beaten egg whites into batter. Gently fold in remaining whites. Pour batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan; smooth top.
Bake cake until golden and a wooden pick inserted near the center comes out clean, 60 to 65 minutes. Invert pan over neck of a bottle; cool completely.
Loosen cake by running a metal spatula around sides of pan. Transfer cake to a serving platter.
Drizzle cake with melted marmalade. Arrange orange peel strips over top of cake. Let stand until glaze has set.

Candied Orange Peel:
Cut the peel of 1 orange into thin strips; remove white pith.
Bring 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water to a boil; add strips. Cook over medium heat until liquid is absorbed and strips are glazed.
Recipe from Martha Stewert

LADY FINGER LEMON DESERT

INGREDIENTS:
1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
1 package (3 ounces) ladyfingers, split
1 package (3 ounces) lemon gelatin
1 cup boiling orange juice
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup lemon juice
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
1 cup reduced-fat whipped topping

DIRECTIONS:
Pour milk into a small metal bowl; place mixer beaters in the bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. Line the sides of a 9-in. springform pan with ladyfingers; set aside.
In a large bowl, dissolve gelatin in orange juice. Stir in the sugar, lemon juice and peel; cool to room temperature.
Beat chilled milk until soft peaks form; fold into gelatin mixture. Pour into prepared pan. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until firm. Spread with whipped topping. Remove sides of pan. Refrigerate leftovers.
Recipe from Taste of Home