Jasey's Crazy Daisy

Update: Warm Apple Cider {One Of My Most Favorite Recipes EVER!!!}

2011-11-09T08:10:00.000-07:00

I forgot to mention that sometimes I use caramel ice cream topping to make caramel apple cider.... the recipe's been updated. Click here for the updated version.

Samoa Brownie Cookie Bars

2011-11-07T13:24:00.002-07:00

These are so yummy.... they're kind of like those Girl Scout Samoa Cookies, with their shortbread cookie crust, gooey coconut caramel topping and chocolate drizzle, but these naughty little bars sneak in a delightful layer of brownies. Almost like German Chocolate Cake, without the nuts, plus the cookie crust. Whatever you want to call them, these were sooooo good that I had to whisk them out of my house and into the hands of my friends to spread their joyful tastiness, and eliminate the temptation, and what surely would have ended with guilt, of eating the entire batch myself. Yep, I think I would have done it. Thank goodness for friends who are always up for sampling brownie creations, saving me from, well, myself.

Samoa Brownie Cookie Bars

*Recipe By Jasey's Crazy Daisy

Shortbread Crust: (adapted from A Montana Table's Huckleberry Cobbler Crust)

*12 Tablespoons unsalted butter (1 1/2 sticks), cold and cut into cubes

3/4 cups powdered sugar

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

*1/2 teaspoon salt

*If you don't have unsalted butter, use salted butter, and leave out the 1/2 teaspoon salt.

Brownie Layer:

1 package brownie mix, I prefer Betty Crocker's Fudge Brownies or Dark Chocolate Brownies

Water, oil, and eggs called for in the directions on the brownie box

1/4 cup hot fudge ice cream topping, straight from the jar, unheated

Coconut Caramel Layer:

3 cups toasted coconut,

1 (17 oz.) jar caramel topping, Mrs. Richardson's Butterscotch Caramel is the only brand I use

Chocolate Drizzle:

1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 300. Cover baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread coconut evenly over baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to make sure coconut browns evenly. Set aside to cool.

Preheat oven to 350. Combine all crust ingredients and cut with pastry knife, or mix with mixer until coarse pea-sized lumps form. Press evenly over the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish. Bake until lightly browned.

Meanwhile, prepare brownie batter according to package directions, adding 1/4 cup hot fudge ice cream topping, unheated and straight from the jar. Make sure to follow the high altitude directions if you live at high altitude. Pour over shortbread crust and bake as directed, until a toothpick comes out nearly clean with only a few crumbs remaining.

When brownies are almost finished, scoop caramel topping into a heavy bottomed saucepan and heat over low until caramel is soft and easy to stir. Add toasted coconut and stir gently until evenly mixed. If brownies are not quite finished, keep this warm, stirring occasionally. Keeping the coconut caramel mixture warm will help it to spread evenly without tearing brownies apart.

Pour coconut caramel mixture over brownies and gently spread evenly over the top.

Place chocolate chips into a zip-loc baggie and put into microwave for 20 second intervals. Squish the bag with your fingers to mix and smooth the chocolate between intervals. When melted smooth, snip a tiny piece off of the corner of the bag and drizzle over bars. Cool.

I let these cool for a bit, probably half an hour, and then put them if the refrigerator to finish setting, after sneaking a taste, that is. They are super yummy warm, but cut much more neatly if you wait for them to set.

I think I will be making quite a few batches of these to use as Christmas gifts. I think they might be my new favorite treat. They might even make an appearance at Thanksgiving. What's on your Christmas baking list?

Warm Apple Cider {One Of My Most Favorite Recipes EVER!!!}

2011-10-31T08:58:00.002-06:00

A warm cup of this cider is probably the one thing I look most forward to this time of the year, which is actually saying a lot because I love fall flavors. One of the reasons I love this cider so much is because it is part of our family tradition. Mom always had a batch brewing on Halloween, and now my kiddos and our friends and family enjoy it at our house. I love to keep a big batch warm on Halloween so that when our trick-o-treating friends need a break, they can come in, sit a spell, and enjoy a warm mug of cider. I don't reserve it for Halloween though! I love to serve it on Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. Besides tradition, this cider is spiced just right and isn't packed with caffeine or any extra sugar, but you'd never know it's missing from a taste. Sometimes I make a batch, let it cool, and pour it back into it's original juice container to store in the fridge. This way, it's only a minute or so in the microwave to perfect cider whenever we want it.

Warm Apple Cider

*Recipe By Crazy Daisy

1 gallon apple juice, cranberry is pretty yummy too

5 cinnamon sticks*

9 whole cloves

9 whole allspice

cheesecloth, optional

*Note~ if you purchase cinnamon sticks from the baking isle in glass jars or metal tins, you will need 5 cinnamon sticks. However, you can also find bags of cinnamon sticks in the ethnic cooking section. These cinnamon sticks are ginormous and way way cheaper so I have started using them! If you do use the sticks that come in the bag, I find that using three works perfectly. Since they are so big, 5 makes it a little too strong. Also, if you don't want to mess around with making a spice packet, you don't have to - you can let your spices float around on the bottom and either strain it, or carefully ladle around them. You just have to make sure you don't leave any spices floating in the bottom of someone's mug because you don't want anyone to choke!

First, you need to make a spice packet. To do this, unroll your cheesecloth so that it lays flat. It should still be folded into 3-4 layers. Cut off a rectangle big enough to wrap around your cinnamon sticks. Also, cut a 1 to 1 1/2 inch strip to use as a tie. Place spices into the center of cheesecloth and wrap in to a bundle. Tie strip securely around packet. Place spice packet on the bottom of a large soup kettle. Pour juice over packet into kettle. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about half an hour or until cider is spiced to taste. Remove spice packet. Ladle into mugs and enjoy! If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely and use a funnel to pour cider back into your original juice container. Store in refrigerator and microwave by the mug as needed.

I have also used my crock pot to serve this cider. You can either make as directed above and pour it into a crock pot, set it to warm or low, and keep a ladle and some mugs handy for serving or you can place the spice packet into the crock pot, pour your juice over the top and heat until spiced to taste, remove the spice packet, turn to warm or low and enjoy!

For a Caramel Apple Cider place a caramel into the bottom of your mug, pour your hot cider on top, and stir to melt or add a teaspoon of caramel ice cream topping (I love Mrs. Richardson's Butterscotch Caramel). Yummy!

I hope you will enjoy this recipe as much as we do. It really is one of our favorites. I plan to share how I use it for gifts in a couple of weeks, complete with a free printable!

Chili Meat Recipe Revisited

2011-10-25T16:36:00.004-06:00

If you have tried my Chili Meat, the recipe has been adjusted to be more user friendly. Make sure to update your recipe boxes~ if you haven't made it yet, what are you waiting for?!?!

Click here for the updated recipe.

PS - Have you entered the fabulous slow cooker cookbook giveaway yet? Click here to enter.

Tired of Crock Pot Flops? Kid's Favorite Fondue {and Slow Cooker CookBook Giveaway}

2011-10-25T12:54:00.006-06:00

I'm not sure about you, but I have fallen victim to some serious crock pot flops! Yuck! In fact, until recently, I was actually afraid to use them because I was afraid of coming home to something gross not even resembling something I would call dinner, let alone actually feed to my family. That being said, with the craziness of my family's schedule, soccer practices, violin lessons, flag football, swimming lessons, and on and on, I actually dusted mine off and have had some pretty successful attempts at crock pot cooking lately! Whew! However, I still feel pretty limited as to what I might try to make in one. That is until I received this new cookbook in the mail.

It's called 150 Best Slow Cooker Recipes and has recipes to fit all occasions and tastes! Some of the recipes that I can't wait to try include, Sumptuous Spinach and Artichoke Dip, Chicken and Dumplings, Chili with Black Beans and Grilled Chicken, Zesty Seafood Chowder, Apple Cranberry Upside-Down Cobbler, and Old-Fashioned Gingerbread (the list doesn't stop there). And if the recipes weren't enough, this book features a section highlighting each recipe's specialties (entertaining worthy, vegetarian friendly, can be halved) along with recipe specific tips and is packed with lots of extra crock pot information to help make sure your slow cooker meals turn out yummy every time! When I asked my kids what they might like, they picked Kid's Favorite Fondue. It looks yummy, kind of like a pizza dip. Want a peak?

Kid's Favorite Fondue

Serves 6

Thanks to my dear friend, Marilyn Linton, writer, editor and volunteer extraordinaire, for this oh-so-easy “fondue.” Creamy and delicious, it is a great hit with adults as well as kids. Give everyone their own fondue fork and serve with thick slices of French baguette, quartered, celery sticks or slices of green pepper.

Small (maximum 31⁄2 quart) slow cooker

Blender or food processor

Fondue forks

1 can (28 oz/796 mL) tomatoes with juice, 1, (see Tip, left)

1 tsp dried oregano, 5 mL

1 tsp salt, 5 mL

Freshly ground black pepper

3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, 750 mL

Sliced baguette

Celery sticks

Sliced green pepper

1. In a blender or food processor, process tomatoes until relatively smooth. Transfer to slow cooker stoneware. Add oregano, salt, and pepper to taste, and cook on High for 1 hour, until tomatoes are bubbly.

2. Add cheese to slow cooker in handfuls, stirring to combine after each addition. Reduce heat to Low and serve, or cover and keep on Low until ready to serve. Using fondue forks, dip bread or vegetables into fondue.

v Vegetarian Friendly / pg 32

Tip

If you’re in a hurry, bring the tomatoes to a boil on top of the stove after they have been processed. Then transfer to the slow cooker. Reduce the cooking time in Step 1.

Excerpted from The 150 Best Slow Cooker Recipes, Second Edition by Judith Finlayson Photograph by Colin Erricson © 2011 Robert Rose Inc. www.robertrose.ca Reprinted with permission. All rights reserved.

I'm thinking this would be so good with soft warm bread sticks, don't you think? Would you like your own copy? I've got a copy up for grabs for one JCD reader! All you have to do is leave a comment under this post telling me what your favorite slow cooker recipe or tip is. This giveaway is only open to JCD followers, so if you aren't one already, make sure to click follow (above right), or like.

This giveaway opens immediately and ends Tuesday, November 1, 2011 at noon. The winner has 24 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be drawn. This giveaway is only open to residents of the US and Cananda.

*Disclaimer - I was provided a cookbook for review, but all opinions remain my own. No money was compensated.

Cheesy Bacon Roasted Potatoes

2011-10-19T11:39:00.001-06:00

I have an addiction. To potatoes. Specifically Dickey's Baked Potato Casserole. I have been working on my own copycat version, and I am almost happy with it. But one day I didn't feel like mashed potatoes, I wanted roasted potatoes. Enter these Cheesy Bacon Roasted Potatoes. They are packed with the same flavors of the potato casserole, minus the mashing, maybe a little butter, and probably sour cream and even cream cheese to top it off (super healthy, I know). I think I have a new addiction. To these potatoes. Let me introduce you to them.

Cheesy Bacon Roasted Potatoes
*Recipe by Crazy Daisy

3-5 lbs potatoes, red or yukon, rinsed and cut into 1-inch chunks, enough to spread over the surface of the pan (sometimes it takes all 5 pounds, sometimes not)
1 package bacon chopped into 1/2-inch slices
1/2 onion, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced or grated
3 Tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
10 green onions, sliced
1/2 to 1 cup shredded cheese, use as much as you'd like ( I like Cheddar, or Colby Jack)

*Note - You may want to add more salt after tasting the potatoes are finished. You never know how much salt the bacon is going to add, so I start with less knowing I can always add more.

Preheat oven to 450. Cover a Texas sheet cake pan with foil and spray with cooking spray. Spread potatoes evenly in pan. Sprinkle bacon, onion, and grated garlic evenly over the top of the potatoes. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with pepper and salt. Use a wooden spoon, or your hands, to mix everything together until well coated. Make sure everything is spread out evenly when you are finished. Place pan in oven and cook for 15 minutes. Stir. Cook another fifteen minutes. Stir again. Meanwhile, slice green onions. If the potatoes look like they are starting to brown, sprinkle onions over potatoes and cook for another fifteen minutes. If everything is not browned and crispy to your liking, cook for another 10-15 minutes or until done. Make sure to keep stirring between cooking intervals. This keeps everything browning evenly. I try to put the green onions on for the last 10-15 minutes only, this way they are sort of crisp tender and don't loose their flavor. When your potatoes are finished, take them out of the oven and sprinkle with cheese. Let the cheese melt and serve. Enjoy!

What are your favorite kind of potatoes?

Remember these? {Buffalo Wing Bites}

2011-10-13T08:52:00.001-06:00

Remember these cheesy buffalo wing bites of yumminess? Somehow they got lost.... but they are back. You can find them in my Recipe Box, or simply click here. Whew! Just in time for football. What's football without food? Not very exciting. Saved!

Did you here about our latest giveaway? From The Twinery? Check it out!

Baker's Twine Review and Giveaway {The Twinery}

2011-10-12T12:44:00.014-06:00

*Image from The Twinery

Have you seen all the totally fun ways everyone is using baker's twine? It's everywhere! I've seen it used for scrap booking and card making, gift wrapping, and in so many crafts that I can't even begin to count them! Recently, the Twinery, sent me one of their sample packs to check out, and I can't tell you how much I love their product. Their twine is easy to use high quality twine with crazy vibrant colors. The possibilities for using it are endless. Remember this back to school printable project?

Well, this is what it looked like before I added the twine.

You could totally get by not using it, but look how much cuter and more polished it looks embellished with the twine!

This is just one of the ways that I have found to use the twine! I have some more printables that are almost ready to share with you and I just can't wait to package some Crazy Daisy treat packages using these twine bows:

*Image from The Twinery

They call them "pansy bows" in the tutorial posted on their blog, but they totally remind me of daisies, and I think they could totally become my signature wrapping if I tie them using their pink sorbet twine. And guess what? Check out what was on The Twinery Blog today...

*Image from The Twinery

Complete with recipe and free printable gift tag! Pretty cute all tied up with baker's twine.

The Twinery is offering JCD readers a chance to win one of their amazing sampler packages! I felt like it was Christmas when my package arrived, I hope you are as excited as I am!

To Enter:

This giveaway is only open to JCD followers. So before you complete your entries, make sure you either follow this blog using Google Friend Connect, or like JCD on Facebook. Once you are a follower, here's how you enter. (two entries)

1) Head over to The Twinery's blog and check out all their crafty ideas! When you are finished come back here and leave me a comment telling me your favorite project, color, or how you would use your twine!

2) Head over to The Twinery's Facebook page, click like, and tell them what you love about their twine! Then come back here and leave me a comment telling me that you did so.

That's two ways to enter! You can choose one or do them both. Just make sure to leave me a comment for each entry or they may not be counted.

This giveaway opens immediately and ends Wednesday, October 19th at noon. Once the winner's eligibility has been confirmed, they have 24 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be drawn. What are you waiting for? Hurry and enter!

Disclosure- I was provided with a sampler pack of twine to review, however, all opinions remain my own. Their was no monetary compensation.

Cinnamon Crackle Zucchini Bread

2011-10-07T14:56:00.017-06:00

While fall is still in the air, and you may still find zucchini in your kitchens, I thought I would share another one of my favorite zucchini recipes with you. I received a loaf of this bread as a gift once and had to have the recipe. Thanks, Genny! Since, I have adjusted the method, amount of sugar, and added a yummy crackle topping. I love how the sweet yummy spices pair with the crunchy cinnamon crackle topping. Plus, I love how you end up with two loaves, one to keep and one to share. Give it a try, I don't think it will disappoint.

Cinnamon Crackle Zucchini Bread
Recipe by Crazy Daisy adapted from Genny Schaffner

3 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon allspice
3 eggs
1 cup oil
1 1/2 cups sugar (you can add or subtract 1/2 cup depending on how sweet you like things)
2 cups grated zucchini
3 teaspoons vanilla

Cinnamon Crackle Topping
2 Tablespoons white sugar
2 Tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat oven to 325. Grease and flour two 9x5 loaf pans. In medium bow, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, and allspice. Set aside. In mixing bowl, cream together eggs, oil, and sugar. Add zucchini and vanilla and stir well. Slowly, stir in the dry ingredients and mix until everything is just wet and incorporated. Pour evenly into prepared pans. Bake for one hour, or until bread springs back when touched lightly, or a toothpick comes out mostly clean when inserted in the center of the bread. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes and then remove from pan to finish cooling. While yummy warm, I think this bread is actually better cooled and even better the next day.

Very Good Recipe Tags: Quick Breads, Zucchini, Fall Flavors

Got Pumpkin?!?! {Recipe Round Up}

2011-10-01T07:27:00.001-06:00

October first, how exciting! It's officially time to break out the pumpkin. Here's some of our favorite pumpkin treats...

Pumpkin Pancakes with Buttermilk Caramel Syrup

Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Gelato

I hope to share more of our favorite pumpkin treats with you soon! What are your favorite pumpkin treats?

If you are interested in more fabulous fall baking treat ideas, click here. Yes, there's lots of pumpkin ideas.

Halloween Ghost Ribbon Wreath

2011-09-26T10:17:00.000-06:00

It's starting to get a little spooky around here. Fun spooky, don't you think?! Interested in a making a ribbon wreath yourself? Click here for a tutorial.

Oatmeal Cookie Gelato

2011-09-21T09:14:00.005-06:00

While fall is in the air, our afternoons have actually still been pretty nice. We haven't even put our shorts away! Perfect time to add some fall baking flavors to gelato! Oatmeal Cookie is one of the flavors my son and I added to our gelato collection this summer. I don't know which he likes better, this flavor or the Cake Batter Gelato? Really, I don't think you could go wrong with either.

Oatmeal Cookie Gelato

*Recipe by Crazy Daisy

2 cups milk, whole is best, but I used 2% and it was still super creamy

1 cup heavy cream

4 large egg yolks

2/3 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla
2/3 cup Oatmeal Cookie Mix, not prepared, looks like this

In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine the milk and cream. Place over medium-low heat and cook, stirring occasionally so a skin doesn't form, until tiny bubbles start to form around the edges and the mixture reaches a temperature of 170 degrees.

Meanwhile, in a heat-proof bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually whisk in the sugar until the mixture is incorporated, thick, and pale yellow. This next part part is important and keeps you from having scrambled eggs in your gelato - it is called tempering the eggs. Take the mixture off of the heat. Using a ladle, scoop some of the hot milk mixture (after it gets the bubbles) and pour it into the eggs and whisk. Do this one more time, make sure to whisk well so the eggs don't have a chance to cook into scrambled eggs. Now slowly pour the egg mixture into the rest of the hot milk mixture, in the saucepan, whisking until incorporated. Pour in cake mix and vanilla and whisk again until well mixed. Return to heat and cook on low. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the custard is thick enough to coat the back of the spoon and/or it reaches a temperature of 185. Do not let it boil.

Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean freezer-safe bowl. Add cookie mix and stir until mixed evenly. Let cool, stirring about every 5 minutes. Once, mixture reaches about room temperature, cover with plastic wrap - gently pressing it down until it touches mixture to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least four hours, but overnight is best. Pour mixture into container of ice cream machine and churn as directed. Transfer to airtight container and refrigerate for two hours before serving. Let gelato set out for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Hope you are finding time in all the fall craziness to enjoy those last few sunny afternoons. Enjoy!

Very Good Recipe Tags: Gelato, Desserts

Are You In the Market for Some Custom Flyers? {Uprinting Flyer Giveaway}

2011-09-15T16:31:00.019-06:00

If you haven't ever heard of UPrinting, now is a great time to check them out! I created my personal blog cards using their services. Aren't they cute?

UPrinting is one of those printing companies that offers a variety of printing services, such as flyer printing. You can also check out their club flyers. The great thing about these flyers is that they can be used for just about anything. Since you control the design process, you can create whatever you can imagine. They are perfect for save the dates, party invites, announcements, charity's special events and the like. I think I may design stationary cards to use for my JCD blogging adventures. There have been several occasions that I wished I had something to send a note on or include in a giveaway package. Are you interested in creating some flyers of your own? Uprinting is offering Jasey's Crazy Daisy readers a chance to win 250 custom flyers!

Prize details include:

One winner will receive 250 flyers. You can choose from two sizes: 4.25" x 5.5" or 4" x 6". The cards are printed on 14 pt glossy cardstock, with front printing only. There will be a 3 business day turnaround and free shipping. This giveaway is limited to US residents 18 years old and above only.

How to win?

You must be a JCD reader, either with Google Friend Connect or Facebook to qualify for this giveaway. If you aren't a JCD follower, what are you waiting for?

Now just:
1. Leave a comment under this post describing what kind of flyer you might design.

2. Head over to the UPrinting Facebook page, click like and tell them you are excited about the giveaway at Jasey's Crazy Daisy. Come back and leave a comment under this post telling me you did so.

3. Visit Uprinting's Twitter page, click follow, and leave a note telling them JCD sent you. Come back and leave a comment under this post telling me you did so.

That's up to three entries! Please remember to come back and leave a comment, under this post, for each option you choose or your entries may not be included in the drawing.

This giveaway is open immediately. You have until noon September 24th, 2011 (Mountain Standard Time) to enter. After eligibility is confirmed, winner will be contacted directly. The winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be drawn.

Disclaimer -This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive a party flyer for hosting. For more information about flyers, please visit Uprinting.com.

Mocha Coconut Creme Frappucchino {and Keurig Review}

2011-09-14T11:32:00.003-06:00

Have you ever heard of a Keurig? I hadn't until recently. Let me count the ways I love it... No measuring. No soggy coffee grounds. No messy coffee pot. No waste. Delicious yumminess in minutes. 200 plus varieties to choose from, including teas, cocoas, and even apple cider. I believe the list goes on, but what more do you really need to know? They come in different colors. They are even kind of cute...

*Image from keurig.com

This is the MINI Keurig Plus. In under two minutes, you can have your favorite beverage, warm or iced, and even chose from three different sizes. There are even bigger, faster brewers, if that's more your style. With so many K-cup varieties, there is something for everyone in your family. My husband loves the coffee and chai tea and I love spoiling him with a travel mug in the morning, especially since it is so easy. The kiddos love the apple cider and cocoa. My six year old loves using it to make is favorite noodle soup. He pours his noodles in the bowl. Brews plain water over his noodles. Lets it sit just a minute and enjoys. I really like the iced half tea half lemonade and dark hot chocolate. You might remember from these brownies that I have an obsession for Starbucks Mocha Coconut Creme Frappuccinos. Well, I used my Keurig to create my own homemade version. So yummy!

Coconut Creme Frappuccino {Homemade Starbucks}
*Recipe by Crazy Daisy

Keurig K-cup, choose your favorite bold flavor ( about 5.25 oz.)
2 Tablespoons chocolate syrup
1/2 cup Coconut Creme Creamer
1-2 cups of ice, depending on your preference
whipped cream, optional of course

Using your K-cup, select the small (5.25 oz.) setting and brew into a mug. Chill until cold. Sometimes I do

this the night before, sometimes I pop it into the freezer for 15-30 minutes to hurry it along. Pour your cold coffee, chocolate syrup, and coconut cream creamer into your blender pitcher. Add ice and blend until you reach your desired consistency. I like mine slushy so I add 2 cups of ice and blend well. Super yummy!

If you have a second, stop by Keurig's facebook page and say hello for me! I'm sure they'd love to know what your favorite is!

*I received a MINI Keurig Plus for review, however, all opinions are my own. No monetary compensation was given.

Very Good Recipe Tags: Coffee, Beverages

Peach Cobbler Gelato

2011-09-09T07:09:00.001-06:00

I love this time of the year, mostly because of the flavors. Crops are ready, and not only do we find our kitchens loaded with peaches, zucchini, tomatoes, and other fabulous and fresh yummies, we can start thinking about pumpkin! Who doesn't love pumpkin? For today though, thanks to our Facebook friends, we are going with peach! Usually, I make peach cobbler, but it has still been warm enough to entertain frozen treats, our favorite being homemade gelato. I've got a few more flavors to share with you {one in the freezer waiting to be photographed}, but with all those juicy ripe peaches out there, this is perfect for the here and now! Now you don't have to wonder what happens when cobbler marries gelato.

Peach Cobbler Gelato

*Recipe by Jasey's Crazy Daisy

2 cups milk, whole is best

1 cup heavy cream

4 large egg yolks

2/3 cup sugar, divided
3 peaches, {@ 2 cups peeled and chopped}

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 lemon, juiced

Meanwhile, in a heat-proof bowl, whisk the egg yolks until smooth. Gradually whisk in the 1/3 cup sugar until the mixture is incorporated, thick, and pale yellow. This next part part is important and keeps you from having scrambled eggs in your gelato - it is called tempering the eggs. Take the mixture off of the heat. Using a ladle, scoop some of the hot milk mixture (after it gets the bubbles) and pour it into the eggs and whisk. Do this one more time, make sure to whisk well so the eggs don't have a chance to cook into scrambled eggs. Now slowly pour the egg mixture into the rest of the hot milk mixture, in the saucepan, whisking until incorporated. Return to heat and cook on low. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the custard is thick enough to coat the back of the spoon and/or it reaches a temperature of 185. Do not let it boil.

Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean freezer-safe bowl. Let cool, stirring about every 5 minutes. Once, mixture reaches about room temperature, cover with plastic wrap - gently pressing it down until it touches the mixture to prevent a skin from forming.

Meanwhile, in a food processor, pulse peaches, cinnamon, vanilla, 1/3 cup sugar, and lemon juice until pureed. You will add the peach mixture to the custard mixture after it has cooled. You can either fill your sink with ice and place the custard bowl in an ice bath to quicken the process, or put it in the fridge and wait. Once the custard is cool, stir in the peach puree. Then refrigerate.

Refrigerate for at least four hours, but overnight is best. Pour mixture into container of ice cream machine and churn as directed. Transfer to airtight container and refrigerate for two hours before serving. Let gelato set out for 10-15 minutes before serving.

What to post next? More gelato? The yummiest potatoes ever? My favorite zucchini bread?

Very Good Recipe Tags: Gelato, Desserts

Chocolate Chunk Zucchini Brownies {with a gluten free recipe option}

2011-08-29T10:45:00.002-06:00

One summer afternoon, long ago when I was a little girl, I remember baking zucchini brownies with my aunt thinking, "Is she seriously going to put that green stuff in our brownies?!?!?!" They baked. They cooled. We tasted, I thought, "Are these the same brownies? The ones with the green stuff?" They were so yummy! No hint of anything green, just pure chocolately goodness. And if you eat them after they have cooled a little, the chocolate chunks are kind of soft and melted and gooey. In fact, after stating that he was ready to try some of those "BIKINI" brownies, my son declared, "How did you get the frosting on the inside?" I was tempted to top my warm brownie with a giant scoop a vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge{I promise, that would have earned a place in the sundae hall of fame} except for the small fact that it's not even ten o'clock in the morning, AND I have been working really hard to consciously eat better... the whole smart choices and smaller proportion thing. By the way, the one I ate, it was totally worth it!

Chocolate Chunk Zucchini Brownies
*Recipe adapted from my aunt, Sue Bodner, by Crazy Daisy

2 cups flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup cocoa
1 1/4 cups sugar
1/2 cup Canola oil
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 cups shredded zucchini
1 cup chocolate chunks

*Note~ This is a fantastic gluten free brownie when Bob's Gluten Free All-Purpose Flour is substituted for the regular flour and if gluten free chocolate is used. I think the moisture from the zucchini helps keep the gluten free texture soft and yummy!

Preheat oven to 350. Spray 9x13 pan with cooking spray. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, and cocoa. Set aside. In mixing bowl, cream together sugar and oil. Add egg and vanilla, beat until until incorporated. Stir in zucchini. Add dry ingredients and beat until mixed well. Add chocolate chunks, mixing well. Pour into prepared pan and bake for about 25 minutes or until a few crumbs come remain on toothpick after inserted into the middle. Cool slightly and dust with powder sugar, or frost, or simply enjoy as is.

We're off to enjoy our day... we are going for a bike ride.... and ~~to get the rest of these brownies out of my house~~ and to deliver some treats to some friends.

Very Good Recipe Tags: Brownies, Desserts, Zucchini

Wishing You a Happy First Day of School {Free Back to School Printable}

2011-08-28T11:19:00.001-06:00

It's that time of year again! We are busy getting ready to head back to school. I have to admit that it's my least favorite time of the year. While my son counts down the days until he gets to go back to school, see his friends, his teacher, and to learn, I am singing the Back To School Blues. He is so excited. I am anything but excited. I miss him already. I am sad, sad for myself. But really, I am thrilled for him. I love that he loves school, is so eager to learn, and has an amazing group of little buddies to play with. I wouldn't want it any other way, but that doesn't make it any easier. I wanted something fun to sneak in his lunch box, just to let him know I was thinking of him and hoping his day was happy. It turns out I wasn't so sneaky. He saw me working on the idea and wants to take them to share with his classmates. Maybe we will just have to make some extras for my mom to take to her new fifth graders! Wouldn't they be a fun surprise to get from your teacher? However you decide to use them, I hope you have some fun adding a little happiness to someone's day.

Happy First Day of School Apples
*by Crazy Daisy

You'll need:
White card stock, they print 6 to a page, so plan according
Scissors
Hole punch
Gummy worms, at least one per printable
Embellishments, I used Pea Pod twine from The Twinery
Treat bags, optional, but I like because the worms aren't wrapped. I used the Wilton 4x9.5-inch ones from the baking isle at Walmart

Use the below Scrib'd link to download and print apples. Cut the apples out. I kept the boxes around them so they would sit straight in the treat bags, but you could cut the apple only if you wanted. Use hole punch to cut holes in the upper right corner of your apple. Punch four or five holes overlapping with each other to make it appear as if a worm has chewed through the apple. Insert gummy worm into the hole so that the face is in front. Embellish as desired, if you want. Place in treat bag, and tie. Wouldn't it be fun to line the bottom of the bag with extra worms?

Happy First Day of School Apple

For some reason, the words appears fuzzy, but they print just fine. Enjoy those last few summer days! What do you do to make that first day extra special?

This project is participating in

Chewy Chocolate Drizzled NutterButter Bars {No Bake}

2011-08-22T08:02:00.002-06:00

I have been on a HUGE peanut butter kick, peanut butter and chocolate, that is. I just can't get enough. Remember this, cookies and cream no bake treat? Well, let me introduce you to it's peanut butter and chocolate cousin. They are made with NutterButter cookies instead of Oreos and drizzled with chocolate instead. I used dark chocolate, but use whatever makes you happy. Still no bake, still easy, still chocolatey and chewy, and still super yummy, ~but with a little peanut butter goodness added!

Chewy Chocolate Drizzled NutterButter Bars

*Recipe by Crazy Daisy

1 package of NutterButter Cookies
1 (10 oz.) bag of large marshmallows
4 Tablespoons butter, cut into cubes
1/3 cup chocolate chips, I used dark, but use what makes you happy

*Note~ double ingredients and use a 9x13 to serve a crowd.

Grease or butter a 8X8 pan. Place NutterButters in food processor and pulse into ground (you may have to work in batches). Pour NutterButter crumbs into a large bowl. In another large microwave-safe bowl, melt marshmallows and butter for 60 seconds. Stir. Repeat until mixture is melted and mixed together. Pour over NutterButters. Stir, using a wooden spoon, until mixed well. Mixture will become thick and hard to stir. Keep mixing until all the crumbs are incorporated. Pour into prepared pan and press to spread evenly. I find it helps to spray my fingers, or a wooden spoon with cooking spray to press the mixture without sticking. Set aside. Place chocolate chips in a zip-loc baggie. Place in microwave for 20 seconds. Take out and knead to mix. Repeat until chocolate is melted. Cut off a small piece of the corner of the bag and drizzle bars with chocolate. I usually place them in the fridge to hurry the process (but if you leave them too long, you will have to let them sit out to soften before cutting). Once chocolate has set, cut into bars and enjoy.

I'm off to enjoy the rest of the summer with my boys... two weeks left before my first grader is off to school everyday. He's so ready, his mom is not!!! We've got a whole bunch of fun things to squeeze in! I see more gelato in our future, and the pool, and some bike rides, picnics, and what ever else I can manage to throw in! How are you spending your last days of summer?

Chewy Oreo Bars {No Bake}

2011-08-15T09:27:00.006-06:00

These have quickly became a favorite treat at my house. My kiddos request them frequently. Really, I'm not even sure what to call them. After glancing at the ingredients, you might think 'rice krispie treats' which is totally what I thought. However, while chewy, the end result is softer... almost like a brownie. I guess they lie somewhere in between the rice krispie treat and the brownie, like a yummy cross. Try them! Let me know what you think. I think you just might find a new treat to add to your list of favorites.

Chewy Oreo Bars
*Recipe adapted from Picky Palate

2 (16.6 oz) packages of Oreos
2 (10 oz.) bags of large marshmallows
1 stick butter, cut into cubes
1/2 cup white chocolate chips

*Note~ If you want to make a smaller batch, use a 8x8 pan and only half of the ingredients.

Grease or butter a 9x13 pan. Place Oreos in food processor and pulse into ground (you may have to work in batches). Pour Oreos into a large bowl. In another large microwave-safe bowl, melt marshmallows and butter for 60 seconds. Stir. Repeat until mixture is melted and mixed together. Pour over Oreos. Stir, using a wooden spoon, until mixed well. Mixture will become thick and hard to stir. Keep mixing until all the crumbs are incorporated. Pour into prepared pan and press to spread evenly. I find it helps to spray my fingers, or a wooden spoon with cooking spray to press the mixture without sticking. Set aside. Place white chocolate chips in a zip-loc baggie. Place in microwave for 20 seconds. Take out and knead to mix. Repeat until chocolate is melted. Cut off a small piece of the corner of the bag and drizzle bars with chocolate. I usually place them in the fridge to hurry the process (but if you leave them too long, you will have to let them sit out to soften before cutting). Once chocolate has set, cut into bars and enjoy.

What would you call these yummy cookies and cream treats? I'm open for suggestions...

PS - Have you heard of Pinterest? Find me here. What a beautiful place. Need an invite? Let me know and I will see what I can do!

PPS - If you like these treats, you make be interested in their Chocolate Drizzled NutterButter Bar cousins. Click here.

Cake Batter Gelato

2011-08-12T07:54:00.001-06:00

My six year old loves everything cake batter! We have a frosting version, and a rice krispie treat version, both are fav's of his. Creating this gelato was on his summer-to-do-list, as well as taking the training wheels of his bike and hiking to the waterfall. I am just about as excited as he is to cross this off his list! It turned out fabulous, super creamy, and not too sweet! We all loved it. In fact, you would have laughed (I laughed at myself) yesterday morning as I woke up early to sneakily make this ice cream cone to photograph before the kiddos woke up and polished it off. The things I do....

Cake Batter Gelato (@ 1 quart)

* Recipe by Jasey's Crazy Daisy

2 cups milk, whole is best, but I used 2% and it was still super creamy

1 cup heavy cream

4 large egg yolks

2/3 cup sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

2/3 cup white cake mix, the powder (I have reverted to keeping a plastic container in my pantry so that I have it on hand to make all my kiddo's favorite treats)

Enjoy~ hope you love this as much as we do! My son is so impressed. He says, "I can't believe we can make this. Now we don't even have to go to Cold Stone, we can just make our own. AND it's better!" We'd love to hear what you think if you give it a try!

Very Good Recipe Tags: Gelato, Desserts

Greek Feta Vinaigrette (and Homemade Greek Seasoning)

2011-08-01T12:36:00.001-06:00

As you may know, I love treats (a quick glance at my recipe box proves this)~ in fact, this is something I am trying to work at. I still want treats, but am trying to focus on yummy, fresh, maybe a little healthier treats, for now anyways. After all, who wants a blogger booty, or at least that's what I call it when I feel like I have been a little heavy on the treat side, especially lately since I hurt my darn back and haven't been able to get in as much exercise as I like. So I thought we'd start with this salad dressing recipe. It's so good~ great on a salad, and even better drizzled over a homemade gyro. It's cool and creamy, with a little kick. What will you drizzle?

Greek Feta Vinaigrette
*Adapted from Our Best Bites

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/4 cup white vinegar, rice vinegar would be good
2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, more if you desire more heat
1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground pepper
4 cloves garlic, peeled
1/4 cup canola oil
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 teaspoon Greek seasoning, recipe follows

In blender container, combine all ingredients through garlic. Blend until smooth. While blender is running, add oil in a steady stream. Turn off blender, add feta and pulse the blender a few times or until you reach the creamy consistency that you want. Whisk, or blend in Greek seasoning. If possible, refrigerate for about an hour before serving. Drizzle over salad, or homemade gyros.

Greek Seasoning
*adapted slightly from Taste of Home

3 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried mint
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried marjoram
1 teaspoon minced onion
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic

Combine all ingredients in a zip-loc baggie. Use whenever a recipe asks for Greek Seasoning. Store in a cool dry place for up to 6 months.

Boost Your Buzz Giveaway: Win $1000 Cash With Crazy Daisy

2011-07-31T07:28:00.001-06:00

Do you remember that Boost Your Buzz Giveaway for $1000 cash back in April? Well, it's back!!! Who's up for another chance at winning $1000.00 cash paid directly into your paypal account? Ok, besides ME!?!

You are all so wonderful that I jumped at the chance to partner with the Boost Your Buzz Giveaway so that you all have a chance at winning $1000.00, if you want one!!! Yippeee!

Gain entries in this giveaway by following Jasey's Crazy Daisy on Google Friend Connect, Facebook, and Twitter (@JaseysCrzyDaisy). If you already follow, you are already eligible! All you have to do is head over to ONE of these places: Survey Junkie, Simply Stacie or Little Yaya’s (you only have to enter on one of the sites as the forms will be the same on each) and put a check next to me on the entry form list. Who knows, maybe you are already eligible for more entries!!! If you're not following, get clicking and head over for your chance at this fabulous $1000.00!!!!

The giveaway starts August 1st 12 am EST and will run until August 15th 11:59 pm EST and is open worldwide.

$1,000 CASH prize will be delivered via Paypal after the winner has confirmed. The winner has 48 hours to confirm their winning notification. If the winner does not respond within 48 hours of receipt of the winning email a new winner will them be drawn and so on and so forth.

What would you do with $1000.00?
Good luck, my friends!

Cake Batter Cream Cheese Frosting

2011-07-25T09:22:00.002-06:00

Summer is screaming by... in fact I made these ages ago, but in the midst of new puppies, swimming lessons, soccer camp, and s'mores, there just hasn't been any time to actually sit down at the computer to do anything productive. So here I am, finally sharing this yummy frosting! It's a cream cheese frosting infused with a little cake batter flavor. I've got to say, we found it pretty spectacular on funfetti cupcakes. What will you frost?

Cake Batter Cream Cheese Frosting
*Adapted from Confessions of a Cookbook Queen

1 stick of butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2/3 cup powdered sugar
1 1/4 cup white cake mix.... straight from the box (I keep a plastic container filled with cake mix powder in the pantry, with all those cake batter recipes out there, i don't seem to have a problem using it.)
1 Tablespoon milk

Beat cream cheese until lumps are gone. Add butter and vanilla, beat until smooth and combined. Add powdered sugar cake mix and beat on low until combined. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for 2 minutes. Add one tablespoon of milk and beat until combined. If you prefer a thinner frosting, add milk a splash at a time until you get your desired consistency. Use to frost what ever you like.

I link at these parties.

Lucy

2011-07-11T07:46:00.000-06:00

What's new? Meet Lucy. Well, mostly Lucy, but sometimes we have a few Lucifer moments. Did I just say that? Nope.

What's new at your house? Anything exciting?

Mocha Coconut Creme Brownies

2011-07-07T08:02:00.003-06:00

I seriously cannot believe I have waited this long to share these with you. What can I say? Life happens! It was a sad day... we lost our little Wheaten, Maya. She got sick. Real sick. She's at peace now. Our hearts are sad, but we are ok. She's not hurting anymore which makes it bearable. There's the down side of things. But we've also had some ups. We had an amazing visit with my grandparents. I fell in love with pineapple upside down cake and my family had a fabulous train ride. Enjoyed my in-laws company for a few days, along with some fireworks! And to top it off, my almost first grader is home~ which is the best part! I love it when my kids are home and I don't have to share them with the rest of the world... or at least with the school for the majority of the day :)! We're up to nothing but fun now! Which means blogging has sort of taken the back seat. But I'm back with something totally super yummy! I promise. Let me introduce you to my inspiration....

Image by Chuggin McCoffee

Yep, Starbucks Mocha Coconut Creme Frappuccino! Have you had the chance to taste one? If not, do. What are you waiting for? Heaven in a cup. And while their frosty version is amazing, I wanted a brownie version. What do you need to know about these brownies? They are perfect, moist and chewy with a hint of coconut and a hint of coffee. It's been said that they are "off the hook!" Think you should make them? I do.

Mocha Coconut Brownies

Brownies

2 boxes of Betty Crocker Brownie Mix, either the dark chocolate or the fudge brownie mix

4 Tablespoons flour

2/3 cup Coffee-mate Coconut Creme coffee creamer, from the refrigerator section

2 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee (I used 2 Nescafe's Taster's Choice single serve packets)

2/3 cup oil

5 eggs

Coconut Mocha Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

3 Tablespoons butter, room temperature

2 Tablespoons Coffee-mate Coconut Creme coffee creamer

1 teaspoon instant coffee granules

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease the bottom of a 9x13 pan. In a large bowl, stir flour into dry brownie mix. Add coconut creamer, instant coffee granules, oil, and eggs and stir just until combined. Spread into prepared pan. Bake for around 50 minutes. I would check after 45 minutes, just to make sure. They are done when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

For the glaze dissolve instant coffee granules in coconut creamer. You may need to heat for 8-12 seconds in the microwave. Stir in vanilla. Whisk in powdered sugar and butter until smooth. Drizzle over slightly cooled brownies. I have a hard time waiting, {gasp} for the brownies to cool all the way, but if you add the glaze too soon, it will melt into the brownies. So do your best and wait a bit.

You'll be glad you did.

Just in case you were wondering about the stars of the show, this is what they look like!

Image from Coffe-mate

Image from Taster's Choice

I used two of those packets that you see above in the brownies and opened one for the glaze... I just keep that tucked away for the next batch. Because there will be a next batch, and another, and another, and another.... you get the point.

Oh yeah, what do you think about the new look?

Glazed Doughnut Muffins

2011-06-27T05:00:00.000-06:00

I don't know about you, but brunch, is probably my most favorite meal. Ever. I think it's because you are expected to eat the most delicious things, and call it a meal. You don't even have to wait for dessert! Now that's what I call perfection! Doughnuts and muffins seem like a pretty natural brunch food, don't you think? Combining the two only makes it better. Doughnuts + muffins = super delicious and easy and perfect.

Glazed Doughnut Muffins
*Recipe by Crazy Daisy adapted slightly from The Bakery Spot

Muffin Batter
1/4 cup butter, softened (the other half of the stick will be used in the glaze)
1/4 cup canola oil
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon soda
1 - 1 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 - 1 teaspoon cinnamon
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 2/3 cups flour
1 cup milk

Glaze
4 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup powdered sugar
3/4 teaspoon vanilla
2 Tablespoons hot water

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Lightly grease muffin tin, or use paper muffin cups.

Cream together butter, oil, and sugars until smooth. Add eggs, beat to combine. Stir in baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla. stir in flour, alternating with milk. Begin and end with flour, and make sure everything is mixed well.

Fill muffins cups, until nearly full. (I used an ice cream scoop and then divided the extra batter between all the muffins.)

Bake for 14-17 minutes, our until pale golden brown and the toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the middle.

Prepare the glaze by mixing together the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and water, whisking until smooth.

Dip tops of muffins into the glaze and allow to harden. You can even double dip if you'd like.

Serve warm, for best results, but muffins will keep at room temperature, covered, for a day.

Next time I think I'll try almond instead of vanilla in the glaze. Mmmmmm! Enjoy!

PS - If you are thinking you've seen these before, I shared them over at Kel's place on Friday! If you haven't ever checked out Between the Lines, head over and say hello for me!

The Little Things {Words To Love By}

2011-06-10T08:14:00.000-06:00

Source: sayingimages.com via Jasey on Pinterest

I just ran across this on Pinterest. I am so excited. This is it! This is what I mean up above when I say finding joy in life's little moments~ they just knew how to say it better. It sounds so easy, but don't be fooled. I don't really think it is. I think that technology, among other modern day culprits, set up huge road blocks because they prevent us from being present and we have to be present to those around us, to ourselves in fact, or the simple things pass us by and we never even know it! We are always so distracted. We have so much we want to do, so much we have to do. We get sucked in. Take a moment. Be present and aware and waiting for those unexpected moments to grab your heart and make your very favorite memories. The ones you will hold on to and laugh and cry about forever. Seriously, until the day that you aren't anymore. This is what this life should be about, what we all should really be working for. Happiness lies somewhere in these moments, in having them to hold on to when things get difficult. Memories. Precious memories, they are all we have left in the end, our greatest treasures. Go make some. I dare you.

Cheddar Garlic Buttermilk Biscuits {My take on Red Lobster's Cheddar Biscuits}

2011-06-09T11:41:00.001-06:00

I have a weakness for carbs. Adding buttermilk, garlic, and cheddar cheese certainly doesn't help matters. At all. I don't want to like them. But I do, I simply can't help it. Sometimes they just call my name and I just can't resist. Especially when I know they are the perfect match for whatever I am serving for dinner. Or maybe they are dinner. They are what I want for dinner. Just kidding, sort of. Seriously, what's not to like, though? Tell me. Maybe you can help me learn to steer away from them. Until then, you will just have to suffer with me. This is my take on those famous Red Lobster Cheddar Biscuits. We don't have a Red Lobster in my little corner of Wyoming, so I had to figure out how to make my own. I adapted my recipe from this Top Secret Restaurant recipe. They were pretty close, but I certainly don't remember anything green adorning the biscuits in the restaurant. And good luck getting my kids to eat biscuits sprinkled with anything green. Come to think of it, I don't want my biscuits sprinkled with anything green either. I wanted a softer and moister biscuit, enter buttermilk. And cheddar. More cheddar, after all, isn't the cheese the star of this show?

Cheddar Garlic Buttermilk Biscuits
*Recipe by Crazy Daisy Adapted from here.

Biscuit Ingredients 2 1/2 cups Bisquick baking mix
3/4 cups cold buttermilk
4 Tablespoons cold butter, cubed (1/2 stick)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 3/4 cups sharp grated cheddar (sometimes I even use 2 cups)

Butter Glaze
2 Tablespoons butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Cut butter into Bisquick mix using a pastry cutter or large fork, until small chunks if butter remain the size of peas. Add cheese, buttermilk, and garlic. Mix by hand or with wooden spoon until just combined, don't over mix. Add a splash of buttermilk if mixture seems too dry, the batter will be super thick though, use just enough buttermilk to make everything stick together.

Drop biscuits, by 1/4 cup portions, onto an ungreased cookie sheet. An ice cream scoop works well.

Bake for 15-17 minutes or until the tops begin to turn golden brown.

Melt two Tablespoons of butter in a small bowl in the microwave. Add 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and stir to combine. Brush on top of biscuits with a pastry brush, spreading the entire butter mix between all the biscuits. Makes @ one dozen biscuits.

Fudgy Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

2011-06-03T08:05:00.001-06:00

We just celebrated my littlest's FOURTH Birthday. How did that happen? Seriously, it seems like only moments have passed since the day he was born. We also celebrated my oldest's Kindergarten Graduation... same deal. Time, you are not my friend. I suppose it's a little bittersweet. I want them to be happy and healthy, growing and learning, fun and wonderful. They are, so I really have a lot to be thankful for. They amaze me everyday in a million ways. Blessed. That's what I am. Thankful each time I hear the word "mom", because not all of us have the chance to be parents and so many take it for granted. My life would be so very different without them. I ~~can't~~ don't even want to imagine....blessed, that's what I am. I'll leave it at that and stop whining about time. Should we get back to cupcakes now? I think so!

So those cupcakes up there, they were part of these celebrations. I wanted something kids would be crazy for, but with tastes grown up enough that adults might even enjoy. You can't go wrong with chocolate, especially super moist cupcakes dotted with fudgy melted mini-chocolate chips. Add a little peanut butter buttercream frosting, and you end up with a classic. Here we go.

Fudgy Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

*Recipe by Crazy Daisy

Fudgy Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

*The cake recipe itself isn't a JCD original, it's out there just about everywhere, like here at Kevin and Amanda's.

1 box devil's food cake mix (I always use Duncan Hines, I think it's the best)

1 small box instant chocolate pudding mix

1 cup sour cream

1 cup canola oil

4 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 (12 oz.) package of mini chocolate chips (2 cups)

Preheat oven to 350. Mix together everything except chocolate chips on medium speed, scraping occasionally. Stir in chips. Pour batter into preferred pan(s). Obviously, if you want cupcakes, use lined muffin tins, or grease and flour it. I used a large cookie scoop to fill the tins (about 3 tablespoons). For baking time, add 10 minutes to the time specified on box and check. Do the toothpick test to check, you'll want a few moist crumbs. The middle won't jiggle anymore and the tops will spring back when touched lightly. If not done, check about every five minutes until done. Cool completely and frost with Peanutbutter Butter Cream Frosting.

Peanutbutter Buttercream Frosting

*Recipe by Crazy Daisy

2 sticks butter, softened

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (don't use the natural kinds that you have to stir, or the old-fashioned brands)

1 3/4 cups powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

With a whisk attachment, beat butter and peanut butter at medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and beat until mostly moistened. Scrape bowl and beat at medium-low until fully combined. Add vanilla and beat at medium until fully incorporated. Increase speed to medium high and beat until light and fluffy, scraping bowl occasionally.

Enjoy your cupcakes!

I also used this cake recipe to make my son's birthday cake. Any guesses who it might be?

And last, we have a winner! The winner of the At My Grandmother's Knee cookbook is Kadie, who said, "I love cookbooks!! I am a transplant to the south and true southern recipes. My husband gets so excited when I find one and they turn out. Oh, and his favorite cake is Red Velvet so you see I really need this book! Thanks for the giveaway." Congrats! I hope you enjoy your new cookbook!

I'm sharing this yumminess at these parties!

You're Dynamite {Teacher, Dad, and anyone else} Gifts with Printable Tag

2011-05-25T09:08:00.001-06:00

I am totally excited about this gift idea! Why? Because my son is totally excited to give them out. I have tons a cute ideas, but some aren't necessarily the kind of ideas that make my son excited. It's difficult to find things that just aren't too girly. Even though this isn't pink with flowers or bows, I think girls might even like this as well. I have tags made for teachers, dads and grandpas, and some that aren't specific at all. I am going to use those for the boys on my soccer team. They are 6. They named themselves The Dynamites. Perfect!

You will need:

1. Red card stock (You will get 4 per 8x11.5" piece)

2. Pencil

3. Ruler

4. Cord, twine, pipe cleaners, or other semi-stiff rope-like material for the fuses and tying everything together

5. Rolos

6. Double-sided tape and or hot glue gun

7. White card stock or paper to print tags on

First you need to make your Rolo wraps. You need squares that are 3 1/2x4 5/8". See below for how I measured. You will have 4 wrappers for every piece, so you can plan accordingly.

Next, wrap your Rolos. Use double-sided tape or hot glue. I tried both ways, and preferred using hot glue. Make three for one dynamite bundle.

Then, glue two together with the seams hidden in the middle. Place the fuse on top. The fuse can be made of just about anything. Try to find something that will hold shape though, as ribbon would just flop over. This cord worked pretty well, but pipe cleaners would also work, or even twine. Glue third stick on top. Wrap with cord, tie, and attach tag. I cut my cord extra long and wrapped two or three times, just because I thought it looked more authentic.

If you would like to make single sticks, which I am doing for my soccer team (can't see moms thrilled with the boys receiving THREE bars of candy) just tape the fuse inside the wrapper before rolling it up.

Way too much fun!!! Totally reminds me of the Road Runner or Tom and Jerry! Would you like to use my tags? Here they are...

Dynamite Teacher Printable

Father's Day Tags can be found here.
Tags for every occasion can be found here.

Again, I used a 3-inch punch. But you could trace around a glass or even cut them into squares if you wanted. I left a couple for tags without specific labels on them on each sheet, just in case you needed one for an uncle, principal, or some other dynamite person.

Enjoy!

How Does Your {Fairy} Garden Grow?

2011-05-23T19:35:00.005-06:00

Do you have a fairy garden? We planted our this weekend. It adds so much charm to our yard. If you want to create a special place for the fairies in your garden, you probably need to know a few things:

1~ Fairies love flowers. They use them for all things and are even named for their favorites. They make beds out of them, hide in them, jump on them, and even use some to drink from. Use lots of different plants in your garden.

2~ Fairies like all things shiny, gems, glass, glitter, and mirrors. They love anything sparkly, so make sure to leave some pretty things in your garden.

3~ Like all magical creatures, fairies love sweet things. We like to leave out crumbs of bread or cake with frosting or honey. Just a little goes a long way because fairies are not very big.

4~ Fairies love color almost as much as they love sparkles. They like bright pieces of fabric and ribbon or any other colorful things to decorate their spaces with. Make sure to add a splash of color sometimes, you will find the fairies may leave things in your garden as they add to the beautiful place you have made for them. We find gems and other new things all the time.

5~ Water, fairies need water. You can create a small pond, or use a thimble or milk cap to leave some water out for them.

6~ Fairies like fun music, but they don't like loud noises, so if you are outside hollering or fighting with your siblings, you will scare them away.

7~ If you don't believe in fairies, they won't come to your garden. They want to be celebrated and loved and won't waste their time where they are not treated well.

We used some accessories that Grandma Daisy bought from our local nursery. I love the miniature gardening tools, beehive, and birdbath. My little man loves the boy fairy statue. My son wanted a river, so we used some blue glass gems from the dollar store. He collected rocks from the yard to make a stone path from the house and across the bridge. Isn't it lovely!?!?

When you make your garden, find a container with a large surface area. This way you will have lots of space for all the fun things you wan to put in it. You could use an old wagon, washtub, or a planter shaped like a bowl. Make sure it has good drainage. We punched holes into the bottom of our washtub with nails and a hammer to make sure the water could drain well. Try to find plants with little flowers and leaves, and that don't grow too big, or you will outgrow your space. We used thyme, lobeilia, bacopa, and blue spruce seedum among others. Use your imagination when looking for plants. Look for small plants that might look like tress to fairies or for ground cover that will spread and look like a green meadow. Use your imagination, anything is possible!!!

Do you have a fairy garden? What things do you include? Do you have any tips? We'd love to know more~ if you would share your thoughts we would be grateful!

Participating in the Summertime Challenge at

I share my ideas at these parties..

Have You Seen The New Free Printable "Thanks for helping me learn and grow" Tag?!?!?

2011-05-22T10:24:00.001-06:00

Remember this post?

Now there's a FREE printable tag that you can use for your teacher gifts!!!!

Learn and Grow Printable

I use a 3-inch scallop circle punch to cut it. If you don't have one, use a clear glass, turn it upside down, center it over the tag, trace around it, and cut it out.

Triple Threat Chocolate Fudge Peanut Butter Cookies

2011-05-20T11:21:00.000-06:00

The other day I made some of these.

Triple Threat Chocolate Fudge Peanut Butter Cookies. Want some? Thought so. Click here.

Have You Heard About the Online Auction for Relay For Life?

2011-05-20T06:00:00.005-06:00

Are you looking for some great products at low prices? Do you love contributing to a great cause? If so, join Between the Lines and over 20 sponsors as they host their first ever Online Auction to support Relay For Life. The winning bidders will make their donation directly to the Relay For Life site, so you won't have to worry where your money is going. Plus all bids and email addresses will go to a private Google Document, so you won't have to worry about being spammed. Between the Lines will keep bidders up-to-date on the highest bid on their Facebook page so don't forget to check in to see if you were outbid. Show your support for Cancer Research by joining in on this great event! Together we can help the world Celebrate More Birthdays!

My friend Kel, from Between the Lines has organized this amazing fundraiser for Relay for Life. Check it out, She has some amazing sponsors who have donated tons of fabulous prizes. I'll be there, will you?

At My Grandmother's Knee {Cookbook Giveaway and Some Winners!!!}

2011-05-17T09:03:00.001-06:00

**Sorry, giveaway is closed**

I have such a treat for you today! Recently, I was given the opportunity to review this great cookbook. It is filled with recipes and memories passed down from Southern grandmothers. The recipes are fabulous, and it's so neat to be able to glimpse into these amazing women's lives. The author, Faye Porter, does a fabulous job capturing the love and guidance so many of us have experienced with our grandmothers, and yes, probably in their kitchens. There are so many tempting recipes, but my favorite and the first one I am going to try is the Red Velvet Cake recipe on page 198. It looks so authentic, and has the real Red Velvet Frosting - the one made with milk that is cooked. Don't get me wrong, I like cream cheese frosting, but that's not how my mom makes her Red Velvet Cake, and I have been searching for a recipe like this! I will let you know how it turns out!

The other recipe I can't wait to try out is the Blueberry Pancakes. You will find it below on page 21.


Buy		Read

Don't they sound delish? You absolutely cannot go wrong with Blueberry Pancakes!While your flipping through to get to the Blueberry Pancakes, take a minute to look at all the other yumminess {Patsy's Chocolate Chip Pancakes, and Sausage Biscuits} you will find, and remember, this is just the preview! There's so much more packed into this delightful book like, Nanny's Coconut Cake, Blackberry Fried Pies, and of course, Grandmother's Deep-Fat-Fried Chicken.

As if it could get better, they have offered a copy for one of my readers! All you have to do is leave a comment telling me about a memory or favorite recipe you have with your grandma!

This giveaway is open to Crazy Daisy followers only, so if you aren't one of my amazing followers, now's the perfect time. This giveaway closes May 31, 2011 at 11:59 PM. The winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be drawn.

If you simply can't wait to see if you're the winner, you can purchase this book here.

PS - It's about time I announced some winners!

The winner of the Green Market Baking Book is Elena, who said, "The book sounds great!

We try to be green in the kitchen by using natural cleaners, and recycling. We also buy fruits and vegetables from the public market (still can’t afford to buy organic all the time though).
Follow your blog publicly with GFC (Elena Shkinder-Gugel)."

The winner of the Aliens All Mixed Up book was, Heathery, who said, "I'm a Facebook fan! (Heathery H.)"

The winner of the Taffy Box Baby Spoon was, Karen, who said, "I LOVE the birthstone charm necklace (all of it really!!)."

The winner of the Jessie Steele Apron was, Mary, who said, "Wow!!! I'm glad I found you...I wear an apron everyday in my house.I am a facebook follower too. I love the Vintage Kitchen Ava Apron."

Congrats, and Good Luck everyone!

Disclosure: I was provided with a cookbook for review and offered to host a giveaway. I did not receive monetary compensation and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Strawberries

2011-05-16T10:01:00.004-06:00

I am addicted to cookbooks. I love looking through recipes. I think it's an addiction that has been passed down from generations~ my mother shares this addiction as does my grandma. I think we could even toss my great grandma and even my aunts into the mix as well. With this in mind, you can imagine my delight as I walked passed a table at the library with an entire stack of Southern Living there to keep... for a donation. I didn't have any cash, but that sweet librarian told me I could take them if I brought some money with me next time. We are sort of frequent fliers at the library and I think she knew we would be in soon. I dug into the stack and carted off five or six with the most yummy food pictured on the cover. Which is were these strawberries are inspired from. They had me at Salted Caramel Strawberries. They however, dipped theres in mixed nuts, and I couldn't do without dark chocolate. Both probably would have been divine and I could probably handle a layer of toasted coconut smothering all that caramel. Maybe next time. Anyways, seriously, yum.

Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Strawberries
*Recipe by Crazy Daisy adapted from Southern Living, April 2009 (no link available)

20-25 large strawberries, depending on size
40 caramels, unwrappped (put the kids to work)
3 Tablespoons whipping cream
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cups dark chocolate chips
Sea salt, optional
wax or parchment paper

Spread wax paper over counter or on cookie sheets and spray with cooking spray. Rinse strawberries. Pat them completely dry with paper towels (the caramel will not stick to damp strawberries).

Microwave caramels, cream, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl at 50% power for 3 1/2 minutes or until smooth, stirring every minute. Dip strawberries halfway into caramel mixture. Place on prepared wax paper.

Place chocolate chips in to a zip-loc bag. Microwave for thirty seconds. Take bag from microwave and use fingers to knead chips. Repeat until chocolate is melted. Cut a small piece off the corner of the bag and drizzle chocolate over strawberries. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt, if desired.

Let stand for about ten to fifteen minutes or until set. Serve immediately or cover and chill. These are best used within eight hours, however ours were in the fridge for a day or two and my husband still adored them.

What do you think? Perfect summer dessert! Don't you think?

Participating in the Summertime Challenge at

I'm sharing this yumminess here!

Fabric Flower Tutorial {You asked, and now you finally get to learn how!}

2011-05-10T20:25:00.006-06:00

A little over a year ago, I started this blog on a whim, not exactly sure where it was going, or if anyone would ever look at it {thanks, everyone, for being a part of Crazy Daisy, which simply would not be without you}. These flowers were posted in those early days.

I had the confidence to share them, but not to tell how to make them. You asked, but I didn't think I really knew how to write a great tutorial. However, in this year I have learned a lot, found some focus and direction, grown a little confidence, and am finally sharing the how! So, if you are still interested, here you go. Thanks for hanging in there and being so patient as I journey through this adventure.

You will need:

*Fabric
*Scissors (you may want to use a rotary cutter and cutting mat, if you have them)
*Needle
*Thread
*Fabric Glue
*Buttons or other embellishments
*Broach Clips, Alligator Clips, Headbands, or whatever you wish to use your flowers for

Method:

1. Fabric. Think about your fabric. In my opinion, batiks work best because both sides of the fabric are colored which means if your flower is wispy or has movement, there will never be a discolored ugly side peeking through. You can use regular fabrics, but I would reserve them for flowers with shallow cuts so that the petals won't have room to flip or twist showing the wrong side of the fabric.

2. Width. Think about how big you want your finished flower to be. Cut a strip, the width of the fabric, half as wide as you want your flower to be. For example, if you want a flower to be about 5 inches in diameter, cut a 2 1/2 inch strip the width of the fabric. Sometimes when my flowers are smaller, I don't need the entire strip, and sometimes when they are larger, I actually use two strips, layering the flowers for extra fullness. It just depends on how full you want your finished product to be. After you play with it a little, you will get a feel for what works best for you.

3. Petals. Get creative. This is where you design the type of flower you want. Fold your strip in half, carefully lining edges. You can just cut, or draw your pattern first using a sewing marker (the ink disappears with water). Make sure your pattern, specifically your petals, end at the folds and not somewhere in the middle or you will have some funky two-headed petals in your flowers.

You will be able to change the kind of flower you make, by altering the way you cut your fabric. Here are some examples. The sky's the limit!

4. Gather. Thread needle. Tie a knot in the end. Push the needle through the end of your strip, the knot will keep it from slipping though. Keeping pretty close to the straight edge, push the needle back and forth through the fabric until you reach the other end, gathering the fabric as you go. When you reach the end of the strip, knot the thread so things don't unravel as you finish up.

5. Shape. Your flower will naturally curl. Using that curl, shape your flower by curling it into a circle. Use fabric glue, or stitch your flower into place. You may either leave your flower as is, or add a button or other embellishment in the center. Again, glue or stitch as preferred.

7. Finish. Cut a small circle of felt and glue on the back over the center to hide your stitches or glue mess and to anchor things down. You can attach a broach clip, headband, or alligator clip, depending on how you want to use your flowers. You could even glue or stitch them directly onto a bag or other project.

Was this tutorial helpful? If you have any questions, let me know. Hopefully, you can follow my directions. I would love to know how you plan on using your flowers and even seeing your finished projects. Leave me a comment, or even a link sharing your ideas. Enjoy your new flowers!

PS - This is the kind of glue that I like to use.

Participating in the Summertime challenge at

I share my ideas with these parties!

Do You Remember That Cute Vintage Apron Giveaway from Jessie Steele? Here's How You Can Earn A Bonus Entry!!!

2011-05-03T07:03:00.000-06:00

Remember this

cute vintage apron from Jessie Steele? Yep, we are still giving it away! Would you like and extra entry? Head over to Jessie Steele's Facebook page, click like and leave me a comment here, at the original giveaway post telling me you have liked them and you're all signed up for an extra chance!

You're the Beary Best Teacher Appreciation Gift {with free printable}

2011-05-02T16:09:00.005-06:00

It's Teacher Appreciation Week! We love our teachers and wanted to find a cute way to let them know that we think they are the "beary" best!!! If you love your teachers too and want to make one for them, it's easy~ here's what you do:

Materials:

Gummy Bear
Candy Jars
Beary Best Printable (below)
Coordinating Ribbon
Hot Glue Gun

Grab a candy jar. Mine is from Wal-mart (three dollars and some change). Wash, dry, and fill with gummy bears. Print tags on white card stock. Use a 3-inch punch (mine is scalloped) to cut tag out, or use scissors. Wrap ribbon around middle of jar, glue with hot glue. Glue tag on top of ribbon. Embellish with ribbons around the top or anywhere that suites your jar. Take this to your teacher, say "thanks," and wait for smile.

I think this is a fabulous teacher's gift, but I also think it would work just as well for a girl-friend or co-workers birthday, or even just as a thank you to someone who's helped you out! I'm always in need of a fun way to let others know how much they're appreciated!
Beary Best Printable

I'm sharing this idea with these parties!

Orange Creme Cake

2011-05-02T06:37:00.003-06:00

My hubby celebrated his ~~thirty-something~~ birthday this week! To my dismay, desserts aren't his forte. He would rather have a tall glass of Guiness or gi-normous steak. In fact, think I can probably name the sweets he truly enjoys on one hand~ soft chewy rice krispie treats, cheesecake, Oh Henry Bars (which I shamelessy called his smalltown school cafeteria to get the recipe for, no kidding~ but we'll save that story for another time), chocolate chip cookies, and orange dream bars. I hoped that if I could come up with some version of an orange dream cake, I might discover a birthday cake he might enjoy, or even look foward to. I went for a super moist, vanilla almond cake with orange undertones and an orange creme frosting with cream cheese (cheesecakey, right?). The kids licked the frosting bowl clean and declared the orange cake as "super delicous" and "orangey in a really great way," gramps took some home with him, and my hubby actually cleaned his plate. Mission accomplished. Maybe he will even look foward to it next year.

Orange Creme Cake

*Recipe by Jasey's Crazy Daisy

2 1/2 cups flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoons salt

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 1/2 cups sugar

3 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

3/4 cup orange juice

1/4 cup orange zest, @ 2 oranges

1 cup buttermilk

One batch of Orange Creme Frosting

* Note - I find one orange produces about 2 Tablespoons zest, so two oranges are usually sufficient. If you want, you can juice these oranges and add juice to equal 3/4 cup if need be. However, I slice the oranges and let the kiddos enjoy them and use the best orange juice I can buy always one that is not from concentrate (I like Tropicana, Simply Orange, and Florida Natural). Call me lazy that way.

Preheat oven to 350. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line with parchment paper. Grease parchment paper and flour pans.

Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl. Stir well. Set aside.

In a 2 cup mixing cup or a small bowl, stir together orange juice and buttermilk and set aside.

In mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar together about 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally. Add orange zest and eggs, one at a time, beating in between each until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla and almond extract.

Add flour mixture alternately with buttermilk mixture, beating just until combined. Bake for about 25 minutes or until center is no longer jiggly and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs when inserted.

Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then remove from pan. I spray saran wrap with cooking spray, wrap my cakes in it, and pop them if the freezer. This helps retain moisture, and the cakes are much easier to frost when frozen.

Just before assembling cake, make Orange Creme Frosting.

To assemble cake, unwrap cake and place on layer on serving plate. Spread with frosting, only coming to about 1/2-1/4-inch from edges to prevent filling from spilling over. Top with remaining cake layer and frost. I frost sides first, finishing with the top. The cake will thaw pretty quickly, about 1/2 hour or so. Store in the refrigerator. Enjoy!

What is your family's favorite dessert to celebrate with?

I'm sharing this yumminess with these parties.

Vintage Aprons from Jessie Steele {and a perfect Mother's Day Giveaway}

2011-04-30T10:15:00.004-06:00

**Sorry, giveaway is closed!**

I am so excited to introduce you to Jessie Steele and their cute vintage inspired aprons!!! They are a wonderful company whose goal is "to turn a century of tradition into a wearable story anyone can share, whether they're putting pie in the window or Champagne on ice. They took a complex process and added an exacting vision: Create retro yet thoroughly modern aprons that flatter women of all sizes. “Everyone deserves to look good,”said Helena. 'I’d build one, and realize that you can’t take a vintage apron and simply replicate it– you have to change the way it fits.'" They've done a marvelous job? With lots of different styles and colors, their is something for everyone. Not only do they have fabulous aprons, they offer tons of beautiful matching accessories as well! I have this Blue and White Deco Dot Apron~ it's darling, super cute and I love it! The details are beautiful! AND GUESS WHAT? Just in time for Mother's Day, Jessie Steele is offering Crazy Daisy readers a chance to win their Aqua and Cream Polka Dot Apron...

It's totally one of my faves!

All you have to do to enter is head over to Jessie Steele and come back leaving me a comment telling which apron(s) is your favorite.

This giveaway is only open to Crazy Daisy followers (Facebook or Google Friend Connect), so if you haven't already clicked like/follow, click away. This giveaway is open until 11:59 PM, May 7, 2011. The winner has 24 hours to claim their prize or another will be drawn.

As if this wasn't enough, Jessie Steele is having a special Mother's Day Sale (ends 5/5/2011) on everything but the kitchen sink AND free shipping if you use this special coupon code ILUVMOM. Sounds like it's time to go shopping! I think I will be ordering this apron for my bestie's daughter, who is obsessed with cherries! Yes, they even have aprons sized for children! Why not splurge and find a matching set for you and your daughter!!!

If you hurry, you still have time to enter The Taffy Box Giveaway!

PS - Interested in a bonus entry? Click here for details!

Disclosure: I was provided with an apron for review and offered to host a giveaway. I did not receive monetary compensation and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.

This giveaway is linked here.

Orange Creme Frosting

2011-04-29T15:07:00.003-06:00

I have a frosting problem. Actually, it's more of a powdered sugar problem! I cannot stand the taste of powdered sugar. In fact, I would rather have my sugar cookies plain, than smothered with powdered sugar frosting... I suppose you could call me a frosting snob! I'm to the point where, if I am going to eat it, it had better be worth every darn calorie!!! The good news is that this frosting tastes nothing like powder sugar! It's made with butter, cream cheese, orange juice, orange zest, and yes, some powdered sugar, but it's totally disguised by all the other wonderful flavors AND totally worth the calories! It's super yummy (my boys licked the bowl clean) and finishes off this Orange Creme Cake perfectly, but it would be just good on vanilla or even chocolate cupcakes.

Orange Creme Frosting

Recipe by Jasey's Crazy Daisy, adapted from How Sweet It Is

2 1/2 sticks butter, softened

1 (8 oz.) package of cream cheese, softened

3 1/3 cups powdered sugar

3 tablespoons of orange juice, use the not from concentrate kinds for best flavor

1 orange, zested (@ 1/8 cup)

Cream butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Mix in juice and zest. Add sugar and mix until combined. This frosting is rather thick and yummy, if you want a thinner frosting, add orange juice or milk by the tablespoon until desired consistency is reached.

I'm sharing this yumminess with these parties!

Strawberry Banana Delight

2011-04-20T21:03:00.001-06:00

I was reviewing my Recipe Box, and discovered that somehow this recipe had been left out. What a shame! It is delightful, and one of our Easter favorites and therefore warrants reposting! I didn't want any of you to miss out on this one. This salad, is always on my Grandmother's Easter table. In fact, in my mind, Easter isn't Easter without it. I guess it's almost like Easter in a spoon for me. How could you go wrong serving strawberries and bananas, swimming in real sweetened whipped cream? Yeah, I know.... it's more like a dessert in disguise than a salad; but if you want to argue with Grandma Daisy, than you go right ahead and try. I think I will just sit back and enjoy my excuse to eat dessert for dinner. Sounds pretty good, don't you think?

Strawberry Banana Salad

2 (16 oz.) cartons of strawberries

3 bananas

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/4 cup sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

Wash and slice strawberries. I line a collindar with paper towels and place the sliced strawberries on top to soak up any extra water. Can't let that whipped cream get watery can we?

Peel and slice bananas.

In a mixing bowl, beat whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla until soft peaks form.

Place strawberries and bananas into a serving bowl. Pour whipped cream on top and gently fold.

Serve or cover and refrigerate until serving. However, this isn't a recipe that keeps well (usually there isn't any left anyways), so you will want to serve it pretty quickly.

A little note - I like more strawberries than bananas, but change the fruit to suit your taste. Also, mine was a little heavy on the cream, so there is extra room for another banana or a few more strawberries if you want to stretch it out a little more. But, I'm telling you, it's pretty yummo just the way it is.

Now you know what's on our Easter table! What's on yours?

Introducing The Taffy Box {with a giveaway!}

2011-04-19T10:59:00.001-06:00

Hello, friends, I would like you to meet the amazing and talented Koryn (isn't her story amazing), from The Taffy Box, where Koryn sales her beautiful hand-stamped silver pieces. Everything is gorgeous! You will find something for everyone on your list~ your favorite

bride and groom

Dad

Mom

baby

and yes, even your favorite pet!

You might even just find something that you can't live without, like this

or this

I could go on and on! Actually, I think I would like one of everything!!!!

One of my very favorite girls in the whole world {she was one of my students, I can't believe I am that OLD} is expecting a sweet little baby in June! Here's a peak of what Koryn made for her

Isn't it darling? Really, it is quite beautiful~ the perfect gift to send this special little one. I bet our little Sophia Grace will love it! What a special keepsake! {Shhh, it's a surprise!}

Is there a special new mom or little one in your life? Koryn has graciously offered to send one Crazy Daisy reader one of these fabulous baby's first spoon keepsakes! All you have to do is (1) browse through The Taffy Box come back, and leave a comment telling me what your favorite item is! For additional entries, (2) heart Koryn's Etsy Shop, and/or (3) like The Taffy Box on Facebook (make sure to leave a comment for each thing that you do or your entries will not count).

This giveaway is open to Crazy Daisy followers only, so if you haven't clicked follow, now's a great time. This giveaway is open to everyone, not just US residents and closes 11:59 PM Tuesday, May 3, 2010. After the winner's eligibility is confirmed, they will be contacted and have 48 hours to accept their prize or a new winner will be drawn.

Disclosure: I was provided with this hand-stamped spoon for review and offered to host a giveaway. I did not receive monetary compensation and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Skinny's Skippers - Moving Towards a World Free of MS

2011-04-15T08:39:00.000-06:00

I don't know what you know about Multiple Sclerosis (MS), but it is a devastating disease. It is an unpredictable, immune-based disease that attacks the brain and spinal chord with symptoms including numbness, loss of balance and coordination, slurred speech, tremors, paralysis, and blindness. The cause is unknown and there is no cure. MS stops people from moving, and the National MS Society exists to make sure it doesn't by raising funds for research, as well as comprehensive programs and services for people with MS. My family has experienced MS first hand. I have both an uncle and an aunt who endure the debilitating effects everyday. I have seen a once healthy man enjoying life's activities to the fullest - skiing, fishing, and really loving anything outdoors (he even fought for our country when his legs still worked), lose control of his muscles, now scooter bound and struggling just to hold a fork or sign his name. However, his spirit is amazing and I have learned so much about life from him! He will always be among the list of heroes in my life.

I usually feel helpless, but I have been volunteering for the National MS Society putting together a Walk MS event this weekend, here in Rock Springs, Wyoming. It's my way of showing a little support. We walk Saturday, April 16th at 10:00 a.m. Our goal is to raise both awareness and money to keep moving toward a cure. I would love your help! If you live in my area, please come walk with us!!! For details, click here. If not, you could still support us with a donation by following this link.

Have you heard about the fabulous Kristen and her hand stamped sterling silver jewelry? She has worked with me to design a special necklace just for the MS Cause. The signature MOVE IT necklace has been designed especially for this cause. The words, "MOVE IT," serve as a reminder that we are a powerful piece of the movement as we take steps (the shoe) towards a cure, while the orange dangle is the official color for MS awareness. The second dangle is left for you to personalize with a birthstone for yourself or whoever it is you honor or remember with MS. Kristen is donating 10% of sales back to the MS Cause.

If you live with MS or want to wear one to honor or

remember who you walk for, click here!

Thanks, Kristen for your support!

I want to thank you for listening today. This is a cause that is dear to my heart and I thought I might share it with you all. I appreciate your kindness!

PS - Skinny's Skippers is our team name, just in case you were wondering...

Cinnamon Bun Chex Mix

2011-04-13T07:11:00.028-06:00

Nuts or not? That seems to be the question around here lately. I like them, but the hubby and kids DO NOT (at least baked in treats), so I end up leaving them out most of the time. However, I did make this treat both with and without (even though it is pictured without) and I really love the flavors that the nuts bring to this yummy snack mix. Its flavors are reminiscent of our favorite sweet rolls and everyone seems to love it. I would love to hear what you think!

Cinnamon Bun Chex Mix

*Recipe by Crazy Daisy

3 cups brown sugar

2 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 pound butter

1 cup white corn syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup white chocolate chips

2 (14 oz.) boxes of corn Chex cereal

2 (6 oz) bags pecan halves (@ 3 cups), optional

2 brown paper bags from your grocer’s checker

First, open paper bags and place one inside of the other. Pour Chex cereal and pecans into bags. Set aside. Cover table or counter top with wax paper and spray with non-stick cooking spray. In a large kettle, combine and stir cinnamon and brown sugar until well mixed. Add butter and corn syrup and bring to a boil on the stove, stirring frequently as not to burn. When everything is all melted and incorporated, take off heat and add vanilla and baking soda. Stir until foamy. Pour over the double bagged Chex. Roll down top and shake well. Microwave for 2 minutes and shake well. Microwave for 2 more minutes and shake again. Make sure to turn the bag on all sides each time you shake to spread the caramel. Open bag and check to make sure the caramel is spread evenly throughout the Chex. If not, shake again. However, you should be able to dump the Chex onto the sprayed wax paper. Spread the mix as thin as possible. Pour white chocolate chips into zip-loc bag. Place in microwave for 20 seconds and use fingers to mix. Repeat until white chocolate is melted. Cut a small corner off of the bag and drizzle white chocolate over cereal mix. Let stand until chocolate sets. Serve immediately, or package in your favorite containers to share as gifts.

If you give it a try, let me know what you think. And nuts or not~ what is your preference?

I'm sharing this yumminess at these parties!

PS - If you like Chex cereal mixes, you might like this Caramel version or this Chewy Coconut Almond version.

Autographed Aliens All Mixed Up {Crazy Fun Children's Book}

2011-04-12T07:19:00.008-06:00

***Sorry, Giveaway Closed***

Aliens All Mixed Up is out-of-this-world and might easily be the coolest book you will ever read! Each Alien is divided into three sections, head, body, and feet, which are themselves accompanied by their own pieces of the story. You end up with a different hysterical choose-your-own-alien story every-time you read it. In fact, it's tough to "read" this book the same way twice, thrice or even ONE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED AND TWENTY EIGHT TIMES! With his clever mix-and-match format, Justin's newest book holds more than 1,700 different alien combinations. Whimsically hip Matott illustrator, Laurie McAdam, who collaborated with Justin on the Grandparent books and Oliver Kringle, outdoes herself in Aliens! Trust me, you're kids are going to flip over this book {you might have just as much fun with it as well}! As if it could get any better, Justin Matott has offered to sponsor a giveaway for Crazy Daisy readers by providing and {Autographed} copy of Aliens All Mixed Up! Here's how to enter:

(1)Like The Works of Justin Matott on Facebook for one entry.

(2)Follow Justin's Blog for another entry.

Make sure to leave a comment telling me about each option that you do or your entries may not count.

This giveaway is only open to Crazy Daisy followers (Google or Facebook)~ if you haven't already, click follow or like AND only to US residents. You have until 11:59 PM Sunday, April 24, 2011 to enter. The winner will be announced after eligibility is confirmed and 48 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be drawn.

Good Luck and Happy Reading~ we're off to Starbucks with our copy!

This giveaway is linked here.

Disclosure: I was provided with a copy of Aliens All Mixed Up as part of a Facebook promotion and offered to host a giveaway. I did not receive monetary compensation and was under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Sesame Ginger Beef Skewers

2011-04-05T13:29:00.004-06:00

These beef skewers are one of my family's very favorite meals. My son has been begging for "meat-on-a-stick" as he calls it. Mother Nature broke out the sunshine Saturday, so I promised I would make them on Sunday after I did the shopping~ only to grill in a spring blizzard on Sunday. I share this recipe today with hopes that somewhere out there someone lives in a world where the sun is shining and temperatures are perfect for grilling. They were pretty tasty though~ even if the weather was crummy! Here's to grilling in the snow!

Sesame Ginger Beef Skewers
*Recipe by Crazy Daisy

3 lbs flank steak, cut against the grain into 1/4-inch slices
1/2 cup rice vinegar
1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (trust me, this keeps it from tasting like beef jerky)
2 Tablespoons brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, grated or minced
1 1/2 Tablespoons fresh grated ginger
1 teaspoon Sriracha chili sauce (it's red, has a green cap, and there's a rooster on the bottle)
1 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
skewers

*Note - If you would rather, you can substitute 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger instead of the fresh garlic and ginger. Also, 3 lbs. of meat, serves 6 and I never have anything left. You can just as easily use the same marinade with only 1 1/2 lbs of meat if you are concerned this is too much.

Combine rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, chili sauce, and sesame oil in a gallon-sized zip-loc bag. Add sliced steak. Close bag and swish it all around until all the meat is covered. Marinate in the fridge for 1-4 hours (even 1/2 hour is better than nothing), turning the bag occasionally. Preheat Grill. Thread steak onto skewers if using wooden skewers, soak them for 1/2 hour first). Cook over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes per side, or until done, being careful not to overcook meat. Serve immediately.

PS - I forgot to mention that these are gobbled up so quickly, I never have a chance to take a photo! The beef skewers pictured are actually these Orange Thai Beef Skewers, but they really look the same, even though the flavors are completely different, yet equally yummy!

This recipe is participating the the Summertime Challenge at

I share my ideas at these parties!

Burlap Initial Wreath

2011-04-01T18:22:00.001-06:00

Hello friends, today I shared a tutorial on how to make this burlap letter wreath that I made for my front door. To see more, click here.

What do you think? Do you like it?

Ultimate Blog Party 2011

2011-04-01T00:00:00.002-06:00

Welcome to the party~ quite possibly the biggest party in blogland! If you're a tried and true Crazy Daisy follower, THANK YOU, for sticking with me this year! It has been a wild year of learning and growing and I wouldn't still be here without you all! Make sure you check out all the prizes the Ultimate Blog Party has to offer~ there are some fabulous items up for grabs! My friends at Captured Memories DVD Service are offering a custom keepsake DVD slide show of up to 50 of your most treasured photos. Don't forget to put them on your wishlist. If you are joining Crazy Daisy from the party, we are thrilled to have you! Here's a peek at what you will find here:

Buffalo Wing Bites

Vinyl-Dyed Easter Eggs

Caramel Chex

Nest {Framed Vinyl Glass Project}

Tollhouse Cookie Pie Bars

Crazy Star Quilt

Baked Creamy Crab Dip

Thanks For Helping Me Learn & Grow {Teachers Gift}

Currently, there's a giveaway for the Green Market Baking Book, you just might want to enter!!!

There's much more, when you have time, come back to check out my Recipe Box and Idea Book!!!

Have fun partying! Hope you win some of those fabulous prizes!

Green Market Baking Book GIVEAWAY {and Peanut Butter and Jelly Power Muffin Recipe}

2011-03-30T03:30:00.008-06:00

***Sorry, Giveaway Closed***

You are in for a treat today! As you know, I love to bake, so when Sterling contacted me about the Green Market Baking Book, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to check it out. The Green Market Baking Book was "born from the desire to give people alternatives to baking with refined sugar and artificial sugar products, while encouraging them to support their local food communities"~Sterling. It offers a unique collection of 100 sweet and savory baked treats from the best chefs and bakers across America. Everything is created from locally produced sustainable whole foods, natural sweeteners, and offers dairy- and gluten-free treats along with vegan and low-fat variations. I love how the recipes are sorted by seasons. It even offers menu suggestions, recipe recommendations for people with dietary restrictions, gift ideas, and baking suggestions for various occasions~ sounds like a kitchen wonder, doesn't it? It's unbelievable how much they packed into this cookbook! I can't wait to try some of these recipes out. I think I will start with these muffins,

Peanut Butter and Jelly Power Muffins

*Printed with Permission from the Green Market Baking Book

Makes 18-20 mini muffins

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup maple sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

6 tablespoons rolled oats

3 tablespoons raisins

4 tablespoons raw peanuts

1/2 cup soy milk

4 tablespoons canola oil

6 tablespoons maple syrup

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup peanut butter

3 teaspoons cider vinegar

2 medium-sized bananas

4 tablespoons strawberry preserves

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a mini muffin pan by either greasing or using liners.

2. In a large mixing bowl sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, maple sugar, and cinnamon. Add the oats, raisins, and half the peanuts.

3. In a separate bowl combine the soy milk, canola oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, peanut butter, vinegar, and bananas, and mash until all the ingredients are well blended. Pour the peanut butter mix into dry ingredients and stir to mix, taking care not to over mix.

4. Fill the muffin cups two-thirds full with batter, then place some preserves (roughly 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon) onto the top of each muffin. Sprinkle the tops with the remaining peanuts and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted int to center comes out clean.

Don't they sound yummers? I think my kiddos will love them. This summer, I'm going to try the Huckleberry Sour Cream Pie. It sounds heavenly! Guess what, Sterling not only offered one for me to check out, they sent one along for one of you as well!

To enter the giveaway, leave a comment, on this post telling me how you try to be 'green' in your kitchen. This giveaway is only open to Crazy Daisy followers - make sure to click follow if you haven't already.

For additional entries, like Crazy Daisy on Facebook, or follow Crazy Daisy on Twitter. Remember to leave a comment for each, or your entries may not be counted.

This giveaway closes at 11:59 PM, April 13, 2011. Winner has 48 hours to claim prize or a new winner will be drawn. This giveaway is only open to US Residents.

If you simply can't wait to see if you've won, you can always buy your copy now...

Disclosure: I was provided with a Green Marked Baking Book in exchange for my honest review. I was under no obligation to provide a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I'm sharing this giveaway with

Introducing Humming Right Along (and my homemade cake stand)

2011-03-29T08:24:00.002-06:00

We celebrated my grandfather's 90 birthday this weekend! He is an inspiration and it was an honor to be part of the celebration. I made his all-time favorite coconut cake, and my favorite Earl Grey Chocolate Cake for the party. Presentation is everything, and I wanted a fabulous way to display these cakes~ something worthy of this special occasion. But in my little corner of Wyoming we are what I like to call "shopping challenged." What's a girl to do? Make her own! To find out more, follow this link to Humming Right Along. It's a brand new blog that I'm launching with my bestie, Andrea. She has already shared some wonderful ideas and we have been working hard on more projects to share with you. Wander over and let us know what you think!

How To Make Beautiful Personalized Vinyl-Dyed Easter Eggs {Egg Tutorial No. 2}

2011-03-28T10:28:00.010-06:00

I have been so excited to share these with you! Aren't they fabulous?!?! I love them! Who knew you could use vinyl to dye eggs? I especially love them because you can create so many different styles~ eggs with monograms, whimsical pictures, classic scrolls and other designs, really there are no limits! After I figured out the trick to coloring eggs with vinyl, it turned out to be pretty easy (but there were a few moments of frustration before I figured it out). If you want to make some for yourself, I'll share the secret.

Directions

First, cut vinyl images, using your preferred method. This project is perfect for using scrap vinyl leftover from other projects~ color doesn't matter because you will peel it off. You want to size your images so they are 1.5 -2 inch squares or rectangles. Anywhere in that range should work. If you go much smaller, your crafty cutter might have trouble cutting all the details in the more intricate designs. If you go bigger, you may have troubles getting the image to adhere to your eggs.

Prepare dye as directed on package and line your working surface with paper towels.

Once everything is ready to go, boil eggs as normal. When they are finished, gently place them in a colindar. As soon as the eggs are cool enough to handle, start applying vinyl. Make sure the eggs are completely dry first. If not, just wipe them off with a dish towel or paper towel. This is where the secret comes in~ the trick is to use warm eggs, the warmer the better. The heat semi-melts the plastic to the eggs and seals off the images so that they dye doesn't seep in and the images remain white. I started as soon as I could bear touching them. When they are hot, they really grab the vinyl so you have to really think about where you want to place the image and it's orientation, because once they come into contact, you won't be able to reposition very easily. The heat also helps because if the image has a bubble or bunches up, you can just use your finger to press the vinyl down and it will soften and stick right to the egg.

Once the vinyl is applied, color eggs as you always have, placing them on paper towels to dry. You can dye the eggs while they are warm, or let them cool so the kids can do the dipping.

Once the eggs have dried, peel the vinyl off (or not if you you prefer the above look) and admire your beautiful eggs!

Aren't they fun? I think they are simply fabulous! Now have fun, go wild, and dye those eggs! If you are looking for other egg coloring tricks, check out these speckled ones (they are super easy).

I can't wait to see what you come up with!

This project is participating in

I'm sharing this fun idea with {click here}

Have You Heard About The World's Largest Bake Sale {And Butter Toffee Flower Sandwich Cookie Recipe By Sandra Lee}

2011-03-28T10:27:00.001-06:00

Tomorrow, on March 29, 2011, Sandra Lee is hosting the World's Largest Bake Sale at Vanderbilt Hall in Grand Central Terminal in New York City. The event will benefit the Food Bank of New York, featuring sweet and savory baked goods from 30 of New York's favorite chefs, restaurants, and food shops. Sandra is committed to ending childhood hunger, and collaborated with food industry icons Mario Batali, Emeril Lagasse, and Rosanna Scotto will be attending this event, along with Food Network Star Duff Goldman, from "Ace of Cakes." Bakers throughout the United States, are coming together and hosting similar bake sales to raise funds for local food banks. What a wonderful event!

To celebrate and encourage baking, Sandra Lee is sharing her recipe for Butter Toffee Flower Sandwich cookies.

Butter Toffee Flower Sandwiches

Prep 35 minutes
Chill 30 minutes
Bake 8 minutes per batch
Cool 5 minutes per batch
Oven 375°F
Makes 12 cookie sandwiches

COOKIES

1 pouch (17.5 ounces) chocolate chip cookie mix, Betty Crocker®
3⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
1⁄4 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
1 teaspoon imitation butter flavoring, McCormick®

FILLING

1 cup whipped buttercream frosting, Betty Crocker®
1⁄4 cup powdered sugar, sifted, Domino®/C&H®
3⁄4 cup toffee bits, Heath®

1. Spoon cookie mix into a wire-mesh strainer set over a large bowl. Sift cookie mix through
strainer, leaving chocolate chips in strainer (reserve chocolate chips for another use). Add flour,
oil, eggs, and butter flavoring to cookie mix in bowl; stir until dough comes together. Shape into
a ball; wrap in plastic wrap. Chill dough in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F. Line cookie sheet(s) with parchment paper; set aside.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out chilled dough to 1⁄4-inch thickness. Using a 3-inch flower
cookie cutter, cut 12 shapes from dough. Using a 1-inch round cookie cutter, cut out each
flower center. Reroll scrap dough; cut out another 12 flower shapes, but do not cut out centers.
Transfer flowers to prepared cookie sheet(s), spacing cookies 2 inches apart.
4. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or just until starting to brown. Cool on cookie sheet(s) for 5 minutes.
Transfer cookies to a wire rack; cool completely.
5. For filling, in a medium bowl, stir together frosting and powdered sugar until well mixed. Gently
stir in 1⁄2 cup of the toffee bits.
6. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the filling onto each of the whole flower cookies. Top each with
a cutout flower cookie. Sprinkle a scant teaspoon of the remaining toffee bits in the center of
each cutout.

*Excerpted from the book, Sandra Lee Bake Sale Cookbook, by Sandra Lee
Copyright © 2011 SLSH Enterprises, Inc. www.sandralee.com

What can you do? Attend one of these bake sales and fill up your cookie jar. Organize your own bake sale and donate the proceeds to your local Food Bank, or bake a batch of your favorite goodies and deliver them to your local soup kitchen. Goodness, you could even donate an afternoon of your time and volunteer for one of these organzations. Big or small, it all helps!!!

Remember, you may not be able to do everything, but you can refuse to do nothing!

What do you do to help in your community?

Uprinting.com Giveaway Winner

2011-03-25T20:16:00.000-06:00

Do you remember this giveaway for 250 custom die-cut business cards from Uprinting.com? We have a winner! Random.org selected #12. Who said, "I'm pretty sure this is the coolest giveaway I've ever entered."

Congrats to

Kristie Lorlean Designs

My thanks to Uprinting.com for sponsoring such a fabulous giveaway! If you are in the market for some stylish business cards, make sure to check them out!

Would You Like To Make Speckled Easter Eggs? {Tutorial No. 1}

2011-03-23T07:20:00.010-06:00

The Bunny's already hopping around preparing for his big day! He's filled his basket with all sorts of Easter treats, chocolate bunnies, jelly beans, little trinkets and toys, and of course, colorful eggs. He's going to be so jealous when he sees these~ aren't they fabulous!?! I saw them in Phyllis Hoffman's Celebrate magazine, (no link available) and had to try making them myself. Basically, I followed their directions, but I found some tips along the way that made the process a little easier, and a lot less messy. Here's what you'll need to do {again, sorry I don't have step-by-step pictures, but that whole lefty thing just doesn't work very well when trying to take pictures with a camera made for righties while using colored dye and vegetable oil and the same time. What can I say, I feared for my camera's life... }:

Procedure

First, boil your eggs as normal. Drain and cool. When you are ready to start coloring your eggs, line your working space with paper towels. Mix your dye as directed on the package and ADD about 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to each container of dye. Using a spoon or fork, swirl the dye and dip the egg into the color. Gently lift it in and out a few times to disperse the dye. Let it sit until you are happy with the coloring and remove it from the dye, holding it over the cup for a moment to let the excess liquid drip off. Set your egg on the paper towels to dry. My eggs didn't ever look completely dry so I waited until the color had set, and either rolled the eggs around on the paper towels, or wiped them off with one, to get rid of the extra oil. Now, repeat with as many colors as you want. Your eggs should end up looking like these...

Happy Egg Coloring!

If you're loving these eggs,
you don't want to miss whats coming up!
Click here for more Easter egg fun...

This project is participating in

I'm sharing this idea with {click here}

Have You Been Dreaming Of Handing Out Business Cards For Your Blog or Etsy Shop??? {Uprinting Giveaway}

2011-03-20T08:06:00.002-06:00

***Giveaway Closed***

I have been dreaming about having some really fun business cards to hand out when someone asks me about my blog, or where to find one of my recipes, especially since my web address doesn't match my blog name and I can be pretty difficult to locate (which is something we'll discuss later). I didn't want the standard blah blah blah white rectangle cards. I wanted something that would capture the essence of Crazy Daisy. Which is why, I am so excited to introduce you to my latest sponsor, Uprinting.com. They offer a huge range of printing services, including professional level business cards, everything from your standby rectangles, to your amazing and fun die-cut shapes. And they are giving one reader their very own set of custom printed business cards! I know, exciting!

Prize details: 250 Die Cut Business Cards for One (1) Winner

1.75” x 3.5”, 2” x 3.5”, or 2” x 2”; 2.5” Diameter (Circle)

Die Cut Business Cards (Rounded Corners, Leaf, Rounded Single-Corner, Half-Circle Side, Circle); 14pt Cardstock Gloss / Matte / High Gloss (UV), or 13pt Cardstock Uncoated on a 6 Business Days Turnaround; Front Only or Front and Back printing. Winners are allowed to win only once over a six-month period.

To enter, like Uprinting.com on Facebook. (mandatory)

For a second entry, become a follower of Crazy Daisy.

PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY OR YOUR ENTRIES MAY NOT BE COUNTED.

Giveaway opens immediately and runs through 11:59 PM on March, 24 2011 PM (mountain standard time.) Winner will be announced after Uprinting.com has verified winners eligibility.

Restriction: Limited to US residents 18 years old and above only.

This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive business cards for hosting. For more information about business cards, please visit http://www.uprinting.com/business-cards.html.

I'm sharing this giveaway with

Books and Brew {Celebrate Reading With A Starbucks Book Date}

2011-03-19T09:57:00.003-06:00

"The more that you read,

the more things you will know.

The more that you learn,

the more places you'll go"

.... Dr. Seuss

Literacy is one of the most important gifts we can give our children. As a mom, and a teacher, I believe this from the bottom of my heart. And yet, I know that in the commotion of our lives it can be difficult to find the time to read with our kids, let alone to actually celebrate it. So one day I had my son load up his favorite books and we headed for Starbucks. He with his cocoa (and mini-donut), and I with my latte, cozied down into one of their posh chairs and lost ourselves in the adventures of his favorite books. Between Starbucks' pampering ambiance and comforting drinks, and my kiddo's enchanting story books, and loving companionship, we found perfection. A few hours after our date my son said, "Do you know what dates are for? Love!"~ mission accomplished. What a wonderful tradition to bring into our lives. I foresee many more Books and Brew dates in our future. Why not grab your kiddos, a pile of their favorite books, and head out on your own reading date? What could be better... unless Starbucks got wind of our campaign and offered kids free beverages when accompanied by an adult and their favorite book? One can dream, right? But seriously, where would you go to have your own book date? Or do you already have your own reading traditions?

PS - Would you like to add to your home library? Justin Matott, is offering a chance for facebookers to earn one of his books for free! All you have to do is ask your friends to visit The Works of Justin Matott, like the page and leave a comment telling them that you sent them! Get ten friends to follow through, and he will send you one of his books. Go check it out! I would appreciate it if you started your campaign by clicking like, and letting him know that I (Crazy Daisy) sent you ~ its a click and tell!**Sorry, this book offer has expired!**

For Japan With Love {You Can Help}

2011-03-18T08:27:00.002-06:00

Click here for more details!
I found out about this a little late to be completely silent ~better late than never. However, it is silence for the rest of the day...

Nest {Framed Vinyl Glass Project And New Mantle Decor}

2011-03-15T00:00:00.011-06:00

I have always been intrigued with vinyl cutters and all the beautiful projects they have the potential to create. Guess what I received for Christmas? Yep, my very own Cricut machine. And this is my very first project! I was inspired by these pillows and love how my glass version turned out. What do you think? I didn't take step-by-step pictures because I am a lefty -which doesn't lend itself very well to taking pictures with spray paint and glue in the other hand. But, I will tell you how to create a similar project.

1. Find a frame (mine is @10x13 in.) that needs a fresh new look and set the glass aside in a safe place. Paint it. I used Krylon brand, color Jade. I painted the back and inside grooves with several coats and when the last coat was dry, flipped to the front and gave it several coats.

2. When the frame was completely dry, I used Cricut Studio Design software to create my nest definition design and cut it using black vinyl. Use your preferred cutting method.

3. Clean glass and apply vinyl carefully centering it as desired.

4. Carefully glue glass into frame. Let me introduce you to my new best friend, E6000. I applied it inside the frame's groove and carefully placed the glass inside. Make sure the glass is oriented correct before you place it on the glue. It would be terrible to glue it backwards! Very gently press edges to seal. Let sit until dry.

*Note - This glue is amazing. I had never used it before and was scared to death it would run and ruin everything. It did run in a couple of places, but it rubbed right off after it dried. WHEW!

5. Find a home for your beautiful project. Which leads us to this wreath, which I intended to hang in my bathroom,

And these memory jars, including shells we collected on the beaches of Seattle, driftwood from the lake by our cabin, and other nature things from our adventures last summer,

and, finally my new mantle decor!

I haven't been happy with my mantle since we moved in - until now anyways. I LOVE it! I am tickled to have found the perfect way to welcome spring! It is my new happy place! Now, if only the rest of my house looked this good!

PS - If you are looking for some fun business cards for your etsy store or blog, check back on Monday for chance to win some!!!

This project is participating in the

I'm sharing this project with

Leprechaun Crossing {They are really sneaky!!!}

2011-03-14T11:16:00.000-06:00

Are you ready? Last year, our house was a regular Leprechaun Crossing. We tried to catch them with our Leprechaun Traps, but they escaped, taking most of our gold bait with them. They did leave us with some chocolate gold coins, instead. I guess it's their way of trading. When we were eating breakfast we discovered those little green tricksters turned our milk green! When my son arrived at preschool, his classroom had been turned upside down and everything was in the wrong place - TRICKY! At least we didn't have green toilet water like our friends... We are not sure what to expect this year, but we are busy getting our traps ready! Hopefully we catch one. We will let you know if we do!

What is your experience with leprechauns? Do you have any Saint Patrick's Day traditions?

PS - I am going to surprise my kids with Leprechaun Pie on St. Patrick's Day. It looks fabulous. Click here to check it out!

Image by Oopsey Daisy

Leprechaun Traps

2011-03-07T11:17:00.005-07:00

It's time to get those traps ready!!!! Did you know leprechauns come out once a year to steal gold from your house to fill their pots with? That's right, March 17th, they sneak in to see if there is some shiny gold laying around that they can build their own collection with. How else would they ever have enough gold to fill the pot they hide at the end of the rainbow? Legend has it, that a leprechaun who is caught honest and fair, will surrender his treasure as a bribe for his release. So, my boys try every year to catch those little green men with a special trap that they build. Those silly leprechauns manage to slip away every year, but every year we try again! Even though we haven't caught one yet, we are getting closer. We have learned a few things along the way that might just help us trick them yet! Here's what we know:

First - Leprechauns love GREEN! In order to lure them to your trap, you must use green. It reminds them of the rolling green hills from their Ireland home that is so far away!

Second - Leprechauns are pretty CLEVER, so you have to be tricky. We like to hang signs that say things like, "Leprechauns Welcome" or "This is not a trap!" We have even tried to make ours look like a little Leprechaun home.

Third - Just like any magical creature, leprechauns love sweets. So leave a treat of some kind. We like to leave a little crumb of bread with honey. Really anything sweet works, but you know how much the little green men like gold things, so honey seems to be a good choice.

Fourth - you must make your trap. There is something about a trap from the store that tips them off. They seem to smell those traps from miles away. They won't even get close. And every trap has to be differentor else they get suspicious! Anything you make works though! Try Legos, shoe boxes, oatmeal cartons, nets... anything! How will you trap yours?

Fifth - BAIT! You have to leave bait. What do you use for bait? Why GOLD, of course! Again, anything seems to work. The shinier the better! We have tried pennies, gold ribbon, sprinkles, honey, confetti... be careful though! Don't use anything very valuable because, if that rascally leprechaun escapes, and chances are he will, he just might take your beautiful golden bait with him! Now, we have been lucky and our leprechaun has always left chocolate gold as a treat for us (even though they are tricky, a leprechaun is honest and fair and won't take your gold without leaving something to trade with.) We have found gold wrapped coins, rolos, and even peanut butter cups. I have been told they sometimes leave a trail of green glitter or gold dust. And one year, he even left a tiny green footprint behind with a note that said, "Ha! Ha! Fooled you again!"

This is what our traps looked like last year

We are busy making our new traps, we'll keep you posted.

Maybe this will be our year!

Do you have any fun St. Patty Day traditions? We'd love to hear about them!

I'm sharing this idea with

Jasey's Crazy Daisy

Update: Warm Apple Cider {One Of My Most Favorite Recipes EVER!!!}

Samoa Brownie Cookie Bars

Warm Apple Cider {One Of My Most Favorite Recipes EVER!!!}

Chili Meat Recipe Revisited

Tired of Crock Pot Flops? Kid's Favorite Fondue {and Slow Cooker CookBook Giveaway}

Cheesy Bacon Roasted Potatoes

Remember these? {Buffalo Wing Bites}

Baker's Twine Review and Giveaway {The Twinery}

Cinnamon Crackle Zucchini Bread

Got Pumpkin?!?! {Recipe Round Up}

Halloween Ghost Ribbon Wreath

Oatmeal Cookie Gelato

Are You In the Market for Some Custom Flyers? {Uprinting Flyer Giveaway}

Mocha Coconut Creme Frappucchino {and Keurig Review}

Peach Cobbler Gelato

Chocolate Chunk Zucchini Brownies {with a gluten free recipe option}

Wishing You a Happy First Day of School {Free Back to School Printable}

Chewy Chocolate Drizzled NutterButter Bars {No Bake}

Chewy Oreo Bars {No Bake}

Cake Batter Gelato

Greek Feta Vinaigrette (and Homemade Greek Seasoning)

Boost Your Buzz Giveaway: Win $1000 Cash With Crazy Daisy

Cake Batter Cream Cheese Frosting

Lucy

Mocha Coconut Creme Brownies

Glazed Doughnut Muffins

The Little Things {Words To Love By}

Cheddar Garlic Buttermilk Biscuits {My take on Red Lobster's Cheddar Biscuits}

Fudgy Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Buttercream Frosting

You're Dynamite {Teacher, Dad, and anyone else} Gifts with Printable Tag

How Does Your {Fairy} Garden Grow?

Have You Seen The New Free Printable "Thanks for helping me learn and grow" Tag?!?!?

Triple Threat Chocolate Fudge Peanut Butter Cookies

Have You Heard About the Online Auction for Relay For Life?

At My Grandmother's Knee {Cookbook Giveaway and Some Winners!!!}

Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Strawberries

Fabric Flower Tutorial {You asked, and now you finally get to learn how!}

Do You Remember That Cute Vintage Apron Giveaway from Jessie Steele? Here's How You Can Earn A Bonus Entry!!!

You're the Beary Best Teacher Appreciation Gift {with free printable}

Orange Creme Cake

Vintage Aprons from Jessie Steele {and a perfect Mother's Day Giveaway}

Orange Creme Frosting

Strawberry Banana Delight

Introducing The Taffy Box {with a giveaway!}

Skinny's Skippers - Moving Towards a World Free of MS

Cinnamon Bun Chex Mix

*Autographed* Aliens All Mixed Up {Crazy Fun Children's Book}

Sesame Ginger Beef Skewers

Burlap Initial Wreath

Ultimate Blog Party 2011

Green Market Baking Book GIVEAWAY {and Peanut Butter and Jelly Power Muffin Recipe}

Introducing Humming Right Along (and my homemade cake stand)

How To Make Beautiful Personalized Vinyl-Dyed Easter Eggs {Egg Tutorial No. 2}

Have You Heard About The World's Largest Bake Sale {And Butter Toffee Flower Sandwich Cookie Recipe By Sandra Lee}

Uprinting.com Giveaway Winner

Would You Like To Make Speckled Easter Eggs? {Tutorial No. 1}

Have You Been Dreaming Of Handing Out Business Cards For Your Blog or Etsy Shop??? {Uprinting Giveaway}

Books and Brew {Celebrate Reading With A Starbucks Book Date}

For Japan With Love {You Can Help}

Nest {Framed Vinyl Glass Project And New Mantle Decor}

Leprechaun Crossing {They are really sneaky!!!}

Leprechaun Traps

Autographed Aliens All Mixed Up {Crazy Fun Children's Book}