candy Archives - Inside BruCrew Life

Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats

July 23, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 41 Comments

Rice Krispie Treats are an easy no bake treat that makes everyone smile. Add a layer of candy bars and chocolate and watch those smiles get bigger. These Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats will not last long when you take them to picnics or parties.

*Make sure you sign up for the BruCrew email…enjoy these recipes each morning in your inbox.*

Most days I have crazy baking ideas that I can’t wait to get in the kitchen and work on.

Then there are days when I just want to make an quick and easy dessert like rice krispie treats for the kids to enjoy.

The problem…I am me. I can’t stop my crazy mind from wandering when it comes to easy dessert. Well, I can’t keep it from wandering on any kind of dessert really. #foodbloggerproblems

I really did have plans to make a pan of plain rice krispie treats. But as I pulled out the cereal from the bottom cupboard, I glanced over to the other side where I keep the “off limits” food. The bright orange packages of Peanut Butter Cups started yelling at me. “Pick us!” “We would be great to use!” “You know how good we are!” Yes, I do hear candy voices! That’s not weird, is it?

How in the world was I supposed to resist candy that was basically forcing itself on me? I just couldn’t.

I started to think back to these Candy Bar Stuffed Rice Krispie Treats. I remembered how good the layer of candy bars was inside the treats.

That did it! All thoughts of plain treats went out the window. The Peanut Butter Cups won me over with their sweet yells!

So, my pan of easy basic treats became awesome, amazing treats. That doesn’t surprise you, does it?

Butter your pan before you get started and keep the butter out. I like to butter my hands to keep the mixture from sticking to me. You could also use wax paper or parchment paper if you don’t want to get messy.

Stir a little bit of peanut butter into the melted butter and marshmallow to give these bars the full peanut butter experience. You do have to work quickly as you put these together. Do not let the mixture sit or it will start to cool and be harder to work with. Divide your hot rice krispie treat mixture in half. Press one half into the buttered pan. Lay the unwrapped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the top. Make sure you unwrap the candy before you even start on the treats. Remember we don’t want our mixture to cool off and get hard.

As soon as the candy bars are down, press the rest of the mixture over the top. Make sure you get it as even as possible. But don’t stress too much about it because we are adding a layer of chocolate over the top too. That will hide the imperfections in spreading. Try not to press the rice krispie treats too much. Pressing the mixture too hard into the pan is what causes hard treats. I don’t know about you, but I prefer soft, chewy rice krispie treats.

The last jazzed up step to these Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats is a layer of chocolate. Combine the chocolate chips and butter in a microwave safe bowl and heat it for 1 minute. Stir until it is spreadable. If you need to heat it another 10-15 seconds, go ahead. Just do not over heat the chocolate. Spoon the melted chocolate over the top of the rice krispie treats and use a spatula to spread it out. Go ahead and lick the spoon and spatula…it’s a required step in my kitchen! #foodbloggerperks

Let the chocolate set before cutting into bars…that is if you can wait that long. I suggest earplugs while you wait to block out the yells of the Peanut Butter Cups. Seriously! It’s a real thing

Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 24 bars

Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie Treats

These Peanut Butter Cup Rice Krispie treats a fun way to use up extra candy from your cupboards. Be prepared to eat many of these delicious little squares.

Ingredients

7 cups mini marshmallows

7 Tablespoons butter, divided

1/2 cup peanut butter

7 cups plain Rice Krispie cereal

24 Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped

1 1/2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

Melt 4 Tablespoons butter over low heat in a saucepan. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Stir in the peanut butter.
Pour the cereal into the marshmallow mixture and stir until completely combined. Press half the cereal mixture into a buttered 9x13 pan.
Place the 24 peanut butter cups over the top of the rice krispies in the pan. Spoon the rest of the rice krispies over the top and press down. Let cool completely.
Place the chocolate chips and remaining 3 Tablespoons of butter in a microwave safe bowl. Heat for 1 minute. Stir until creamy. You can heat it an additional 10-15 extra seconds, if needed. Spread over the top of the rice krispie treats. Let set. Cut into 24 squares. Store in a sealed container on the counter.

http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2014/07/peanut-butter-cup-rice-krispie-treats/

More fun jazzed up Rice Krispie Treats for you to try:

100 Grand Rice Krispie Treats

Brownie Mint Rice Krispie Treats

Monster Cookie Rice Krispie Treats

Brownie Whoopie Pies

July 18, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 32 Comments

These easy Brownie Whoopie Pies can be filled with any flavor of frosting or candy. Chocolate on chocolate is definitely a good way to satisfy any chocolate craving you might be having.

Do you find yourself getting obsessed over certain things?

My current clothing “must haves” include ruffles, stripes and flowers, cuff bracelets, and tank tops. And the colors pink and coral…seriously I can not get enough of those two colors. It’s kind of bad because every time I go shopping, every other color gets ignored. My wardrobe is starting to turn into a one color fest. But I’m sure that will change once my “favorite” color changes.

I am also loving Brownie Whoopie Pies right now too.

Last year I made these Reese’s White Chocolate Brownie Whoopie Pies, and boy were they ever good. Honestly like “eat every single one in sight” good!

Making another batch of these delicious cookies had me a little nervous. I know how much I like brownies…having small bite sized ones filled with frosting was going to test my will power tremendously. Ok, I admit it, I failed. I really don’t know how many of these I ate.

Let’s just say I should probably run marathons to burn off all the sweet calories I end up consuming when I bake!

These Brownie Whoopie Pies are so easy to put together. They start with a box brownie mix that you add 1 egg and 1 stick of butter too. That’s it. Do not follow the box directions because you will not be able to roll them into balls before baking.

Also, make sure to roll them small because we are putting two cookies together with frosting. Smaller is better here. Did I just say that? Usually anything with chocolate should be as big as possible. But go ahead and make these smaller…that just means you can eat a few more later

After the cookies cool completely you can fill them with the chocolate frosting. Try to resist licking the knife as you spread the frosting on. Adding some marshmallow cream to the chocolate frosting makes it so creamy and delicious. If chocolate isn’t your thing, you can make any flavor of frosting you like to fill the brownies with. Although, if you just admitted that you don’t like chocolate, you might just be an alien. Just sayin’! You can also add your favorite candy into the frosting. I used up a partial bag of toffee bits in mine, but it is totally up to you. Go plain or go candy filled…either way just make the brownies.

Forget all other plans this weekend…these Brownie Whoopie Pies should go straight to the top of the list. I’m thinking that I should add add extra running to my list too…

Brownie Whoopie Pies

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Yield: 24 whoopie pies

Brownie Whoopie Pies

Easy brownie cookies filled with a rich chocolate frosting. Perfect for those days when you are craving chocolate.

Ingredients

For the Brownie Cookies

1 brownie mix

1 egg

1/2 cup butter, melted

For the Chocolate Frosting

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup marshmallow cream

1 teaspoon vanilla

2 Tablespoons whipping cream

1/2 cup cocoa powder

2 cups powdered sugar

1/3 cup toffee bits (optional)

Instructions

Combine the brownie mix with the egg and melted butter. Roll into 48 one inch balls. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes. Do not over bake. Let the cookies sit on the hot baking sheet for 2 minutes then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
Beat the butter, marshmallow cream, vanilla, and whipping cream until creamy. Add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar slowly until everything is mixed in. Stir in the toffee bits, if desired.
Lay out 24 brownie cookies upside down. Spread or pipe frosting on the cookies and top with the remaining 24 brownie cookies. Store in a sealed container. Makes 24 whoopie pies.

http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2014/07/brownie-whoopie-pies/

A few more rich and decadent brownie recipes for you to try:

Caramel Milky Way Brownies

Caramel Coconut Brownies

White Chocolate Reese’s Brownies

Twix Fudge

July 16, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 42 Comments

Got a chocolate craving that needs satisfying? This Twix Fudge is an easy treat to make for when that sweet tooth starts calling out. Creamy chocolate fudge on top of a sweet, crumbly crust and lots of chopped up Twix candy bars…yes, please.

*Make sure you sign up for the BruCrew email…enjoy these recipes each morning in your inbox.*

My house is an absolute disaster right now. No, not because I have given up completely on cleaning…although that has crossed my mind a time or two before.

We decided to paint our kid’s bedrooms. It was really supposed to be one room that quickly spiraled out of control into all 3 bedrooms. You know how it goes if you have more than one child. I mean how could we even possibly think about only doing one. Children tend to warp your brain with their logic. Of course painting is fairly easy, so they won us over to their dark way of thinking. It has been over 4 years since we painted those rooms. Time for a refresh and a redo.

So all three rooms have been completely stripped down to make painting easier. That means piles of “stuff” is all over our dining room, and the entire basement looks like we are moving or destroying something. Take your pick!

Can I admit that I don’t even like to paint? Oh, not because it is hard or anything. I am just terrible at it. Drips and drops and paint splatters…and that’s just on me The walls end up looking streaky and splotchy. Hey, I may get an F for painting but at least I get an A+ for being in there helping, right?

I would definitely pick being in the kitchen making a mess over painting any day. Even if it is just making something simple like this Twix Fudge.

Have you noticed yet that I am quite smitten with adding a crust to my fudge? It all started with this Mocha Mallow Fudge, and I haven’t stopped. Strawberry Shortcake Fudge, Coconut Oreo Fudge, Banana Cream Fudge, and this prize winning Neapolitan Fudge. Ok, I’ll say it. I am addicted to making fudge with crust.

This chocolate fudge is seriously so easy. No boiling, no thermometers, and no fail…sounds easy enough right?

Start by prepping your candy bars. Take all wrappers off, chop up the bars, and smack all the children who try to reach in and steal chunks of caramel candy bar goodness. Go ahead and smack yourself because you will want to steal chunks too! Set the candy bars aside. I do recommend setting them aside where you can’t see them. Out of sight, out of mind!

Now crush your cookies and mix with some butter and press it into a pan. If you want to leave the crust like this, just pop it into the refrigerator to set the butter. The crust will be crumbly and fall apart as you eat the fudge…not a bad thing at all, but I just want to warn you. If you have some time, throw the pan in the oven for about 7 minutes and then let it cool. The crust will be harden up and stay together better this way.

And no, do not literally throw the pan in the oven. My kids are always correcting me on these phases. I say I’m running to the store all the time…and every. single. time. they ask me why I don’t want to drive there.

Melt the chocolate chips with the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. (You can also melt them in the microwave for a minute.) Give it a stir until it is creamy. Then take the lid off the can of frosting and heat that in the microwave for one minute. It will melt down, and you can pour the entire can over the melted chocolate chips. It will become an ooey gooey pan of goodness. Work quickly to spread it over the crust. Then take those hidden candy bars and sprinkle them all over the top. Make sure to press them into the fudge slightly.

Give it some time to set up and then cut into small squares. I suggest finding someone to share with. This Twix Fudge is so good. You will find yourself walking through the kitchen multiple times a day just so you can grab another square. True story!

Twix Fudge

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 7 minutes

Yield: 36 fudge squares

Twix Fudge

This easy chocolate fudge has a fun shortbread cookie crust and chopped candy bars on top. It's perfect for an over the top dessert.

Ingredients

2 cups shortbread cookie crumbs

6 Tablespoons butter, melted

2 cups milk chocolate chips

2 Tablespoons butter

1 - 16 ounce can chocolate frosting

2 cups chopped Twix bars

Instructions

Combine the cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of an 8x8 pan that has been lined with foil. Bake at 350 degrees for 7 minutes. Let cool.
Heat the milk chocolate chips and butter over low-medium heat until melted. Turn heat to low. Remove the metal liner from the frosting. Heat for 1 minute in the microwave. Pour over the melted chocolate chips and stir until creamy.
Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the cooled crust. Sprinkle the chopped Twix bars on top. Gently press into the fudge. Let set completely. Cut into 36 squares. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator or on the counter.

http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2014/07/twix-fudge/

More fun and easy fudge recipes:

White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Fudge

Funfetti Cookies and Cream Fudge

Turtle Cheesecake Fudge

Butterscotch M&M Pudding Cookies

July 15, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 21 Comments

Fill your cookie jar today with some of these Butterscotch M&M Pudding Cookies. Pudding makes them so soft and chewy, and the M&M candies add chocolate and color.

*Make sure you sign up for the BruCrew email…enjoy these recipes each morning in your inbox.*

Last week we went to a picnic with some friends. Picnics + Friends = Baking Fun! Any chance I get to bake and get rid of the sugar from my kitchen is definitely a good day! Plus, hanging out with awesome friends is always so much fun.

I realized that it has been a while since I made cookies. Pudding cookies are one of my favorites because they are so soft and chewy. These Butterscotch Pudding Cookies never last long when I make them. So, as I looked through the boxes in my cupboard, I kept coming back to the butterscotch. I absolutely love butterscotch, but I just don’t use it enough. That’s going to change starting now.

These cookies are amped up with butterscotch pudding and butterscotch chips.

As I looked at the dough, it was kind of boring and plain looking. It tasted great, but no visual pop. I am a total color kind of girl. From my outfits, to my jewelry, to every single room in our house…lots of color everywhere. So, I love including lots of color in my baking too. Back to the cupboards to see what could be added to the cookie dough.

At the back of one of the baking cabinets, I found a bag of mini M&M’s. I totally forgot those were back there. They were probably there from these M&M Blonde Brownies or these Nutella M&M Bars. Hhhhmmm…I should probably pull every thing out more often. Who knows what else I have purchased and forgotten about? Adding M&M’s to the cookie dough added just enough color and chocolate to balance out the butterscotch flavor.

It’s a good thing I ate one before we left for the picnic. All I found when I went up for food was a plate of crumbs. Cookie success!!!!

Butterscotch M&M Pudding Cookies

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Yield: 40 cookies

Butterscotch M&M Pudding Cookies

Butterscotch pudding makes these cookies very soft and delicious. M&M candies and butterscotch chips add fun and flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened

3/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup sugar

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 box instant butterscotch pudding mix (3.4 oz.)

1 1/4 cups mini M&M candies

1 cup butterscotch chips

Instructions

Beat the butter and sugars until creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla and beat again.
Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and pudding mix. Slowly add to the butter mixture. Stir in the candy and butterscotch chips by hand.
Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 8-9 minutes. Do not over bake! Leave on the cookie sheet for 2-3 minutes before removing to a wax paper lined counter. Let cool completely. Makes 40 cookies. Store in a sealed container on the counter.

http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2014/07/butterscotch-mm-pudding-cookies/

More delicious butterscotch treats for you to enjoy baking in your kitchen:

Coconut Butterscotch Banana Bread

Butterscotch Apple Cheesecake Cookie Bars

Oreo Butterscotch Blondies

Birthday Candy Jar with Printable

July 9, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 25 Comments

Today I’m excited to share 101+ Birthday Gift Ideas for your Friends, including my “Off the Hook” Birthday Candy Jar and printable.

Today I am joining forces with Kristen Duke in her Birthday Celebration Week along with over 100 talented bloggers sharing lots of inexpensive ideas and free printables! All week long, Kristen is sharing birthday tips and giveaways, so be sure to check out her Party.

I always have candy in my cupboards and empty mason jars in my blogging stash! I decided to combine the two for a very quick and easy gift for the blog hop.

As for the other creative ideas, a lot of these gifts are versatile for any occasion, and can be a go to gift to your friends, family, or even that friend that you would like to get to know better. Even more fabulous–most gifts are under $5, and have coordinating printables to make it super simple!

{Blog Hop Birthday designs by C {dot} love}

As we get older, we tend to not celebrate our birthdays with friends as much. It just ends up being another day in our busy schedules with a cake bonus thrown in, if we are lucky. Just think how exciting it would be if one of your friends showed up unexpectedly with a cute little gift to say “Happy Birthday” and “I was thinking about you today.”

One way to show your love for a friend is to remember the little details such as what their favorite candy is. Remembering the small things about someone shows you noticed and you care. What better way to say Happy Birthday to someone than with one of their little favorites.

When I was brainstorming this candy jar, my husband actually came up with the Swedish Fish and “Off the Hook” saying. It was such a cute idea that I couldn’t resist using it! I’m telling you he helps me out all the time with things like this. He is definitely a keeper!!!

I created a printable that you can print from the link under the picture. It is already sized to fit a pint size mason jar. Just punch a hole in one corner and tie it on the jar with some twine. I also used some washi tape around the jar lid to add some color. Feel free to use whatever ribbon or tape you have on hand. The idea is not to spend a lot of money, but to create a small gift that shows your friend how important they are in your life.

Off the Hook printable

Are you ready for some easy gift inspiration?

Join in on the BLOG HOP! Click on each of links below each collage to see the gift idea and printable closer, along with instructions on how to make them, like mine above. I like to open a bunch of new tabs, and Pin my favorites for later. Don’t forget to follow the Birthday Gift Ideas Pinterest Board as well, to save future great ideas.

>>>>>>>Important info! Blog Hops often have glitches the first day. If the link has an ERROR, simply click on the HOME button for each site, or google the blog name next to the link, and you should see their gift post there. Links will be updated as soon as possible.<<<<<<<<<<<<

1. Birthday Balloon Gift + matching free Print by Capturing Joy with Kristen Duke
2. Stamped Cocktail Napkin + Printable by Delineate Your Dwelling
3. Buckets of Fun gift idea+Free Printable by Craftiness is Not Optional
4. 7 Candy Bar Love Notes to say “Happy Birthday” by The Dating Divas
5. Have a Flippin’ Awesome Birthday by Dessert Now Dinner Later
6. Fishtail Loom Bracelet by I Should Be Mopping the Floor
7. Lemonade Lip Balm by Pretty Handy Girl
8. Hair Tie Birthday Gift & Printable Tag by Wait Til Your Father Gets Home
9. Gift of Sunshine Idea + Free Printable by Sweet Charli
10. I hope your birthday is a whole “lotto” fun by C.R.A.F.T.
11. Chicken Spice Rub w/ Printable Tags by Over the Big Moon
12. Birthday in a Bag Gift Idea by Seven Thirty Three
13. Quick Note for your Birthday Printable by Liz on Call
14. Otter Pop Gift with Printable Gift Tag by Somewhat Simple
15. {you} Series Magnets Printable by Ruffles and Rain Boots
16. Tea Cup Succulent by Your Homebased Mom
17. Pretty Pincushion + Printable by Let’s Eat Grandpa
18. Lemon Bath Salts & Free Printable by See Vanessa Craft
19. Diet Coke Birthday Kit by Pink Peppermint Prints
20. Chocolate Filled Insulated Tumbler Gift by The Girl Who Ate Everything

21. Easy Funfetti Cake Balls with Printable by Salt and Pepper Moms
22. Hands Down Best Friend Around by Eighteen25
23. Berry Happy Birthday Printable by Stuffed Suitcase
24. Whisk Birthday Gift with Free Printable by Cupcake Diaries
25. Paper Plate Gift Idea by Crafting in the Rain
26. Popcorn Gift Printable by Breezy Bakes
27. Life Saver: Birthday Gift in a Jar by Here Comes the Sun
28. Decoupage Wooden Pendant by Twin Dragonfly Designs
29. Have a coffee on me: Funky Coasters by Funky Junk Interiors
30. Swanky Black & Gold Cosmetic Bag by A Prudent Life
31. DIY cocktail napkins by kojodesigns
32. Nail Polish Gift by Southern Hospitality
33. Banana Cake by Whats Cooking with Ruthie
34. Paparazzi – the PERFECT friend gift by Sugar Bee Crafts
35. “latte” fun birthday gift by Our Thrifty Ideas
36. Homemade Funfetti Cupcakes + Printable by Tastes Better from Scratch
37. Pearls are Always Appropriate by Mommy Envy
38. Girls Just Want to Have Fun Birthday Gift by A Little Tipsy
39. Manicure Kit Birthday Gift with Printable by Blooming Homestead
40. Orange you Glad Cup by Artsy Fartsy Mama

41. Donut Gift Tag by Pretty Providence
42. Rainbow Inspired Birthday Gift + Printable by Thirty Handmade Days
43. Drink Topper and Tag by LandeeLu
44. DIY Bath Salts using Essential Oils by Unskinny Boppy
45. Friends are Like Chocolate Chips by Delightful Deets
46. Paint Can Succulent Planters by East Coast Creative
47. A Bundt Cake Gift & Printable by Dukes and Duchesses
48. Jam Birthday Gift & Printable by Happiness is Homemade
49. Jazzed up Frames by House for Five
50. Favorite Things Gift Ideas by inkhappi
51. Toe-tally Cool Nail Polish Gift Idea + Free Printable by Simply Designing with Ashley
52. Quote Book by Reasons to Skip the Housework
53. Iron On T-Shirt Gift by Becoming Martha
54. DIY Humorous Girlfriend Gift by Brassy Apple
55. Tea-riffic Birthday Gift Idea & Printable by Mom Endeavors
56. Turn Today Into A Celebration by Dolen Diaries
57. You’re A Lifesaver Printable by Live Laugh Rowe
58. Happy Birthday Jar {free printable} by Kiki and Company
59. Mason Jar Flower Vase + Printable by R & R Workshop
60. Easy $5 Wooden Charm Bracelet by Craftily Ever After

61. Polka Dot Mason Jar Vase by The Cards We Drew
62. Free Printable Mini Notes by Confetti Sunshine
63. Bath Bomb Easy Birthday Gifts by Tried and True
64. Ball Jar Printable Tags by The Country Chic Cottage
65. Eat More Cake Birthday Gift Idea and Printable by Play. Party. Pin.
66. Have a “berry” happy birthday by The Contractor Chronicles
67. Merci Chocolates + Hey Birthday Girl french girl printable by Handmade in the Heartland
68. Five Minute Leather Necklace Tutorial + Birthday printables by Delia Creates
69. Ah-Mason Birthday Gift Idea by Lolly Jane
70. Simple Dangle Earring Tutorial by Bombshell Bling
71. Symphony Bar Brownies by Among the Young
72. Wishing you an E “straw” diary Birthday by Ginger Snap Crafts
73. DIY Washi Tape Cacti by Fry Sauce and Grits
74. State Pride Cheese Board by Addicted to DIY
75. Reusable Monogrammed Solo Cup by Mom 4 Real
76. go-to gift…EARRINGS! by A Girl and A Glue Gun
77. Embroidered Mixed Media Bookmarkers by The Creative Goddess
78. Beyond Measure Birthday Printable by Like Mother Like Daughter
79. Birthday Facial Kit Gift by The Benson Street
80. DIY Jewelry Bookmark by Design Dazzle

81. Birthday in a Jar – Birthday Printable Tags by A Pumpkin and a Princess
82. Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Party Cookies by Crazy Little Projects
83. You are the Bee’s Knees by Love the Day
84. Birthday Candy Jar by Inside BruCrew Life
85. “Hip Hip Hooray, today is your birthday!” printables by The Crafted Sparrow
86. Treat Yo Self Printable by Girl Loves Glam
87. Chocolate Facial with printable by TidyMom
88. Happy Birthday Sweets by A Night Owl
89. Quick & Easy Hydrangea Cake by Sweet C’s Designs
90. Sweets for the Sweet by Simply Kierste
91. Citrus Whipped Honey Butter Jars by Sand and Sisal
92. Diet Coke Gift for a Friend with Printable by Sweet Treats and More
93. A Latte for Two + printables by One Krieger Chick
94. Cookie Monster Birthday Gift Tag by I’m Topsy Turvy
95. Root Beer Float Cake in a Jar by Giggles Galore
96. Treat Yo’Self Printable Watercoloring Box by Persia Lou
97. Fruity Body Scrub with Printable by Mad in Crafts
98. Magnetic Necklace Charm by Sowdering About
99. Happy Bee Day with Printable by Just Another Day in Paradise
100. Manicure in a Jar by That’s What {Che} Said…
101. UBER lucky to have you in my Life by Maybe I Will
102. Free Happy Birthday Printable by NoBiggie
103. DIY Wine Bag & Charms Gift by Sypsie Designs
104. Crispy Crunch-y Pie with Printable by Just Rhonda
105. “You’re the Silver Lining” Friendship Nail Polish Gift by The Happy Housie
106. Tie One On for Your Birthday (Hair Tie Gift Free Printable) by illistyle

Did you have a gift idea that stuck out to you? Go ahead and visit your favorites and let them know you love it!

Follow the Pinterest Gift Board now!

Follow Capturing Joy with Kristen’s board Birthday Gift Ideas on Pinterest.

Caramel Snickers Ice Cream

June 13, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 34 Comments

I scream, you scream, we all scream for big bowls of this Caramel Snickers Ice Cream. This easy ice cream doesn’t need a special machine for you to enjoy it this summer.

Sprinklers, fresh cut grass, sunshine, pool days, and ice cream are definitely summer favorites in our house. Add a few surprise thunderstorms and humidity and we are in the middle of all things summer.

Did you know that you can make ice cream without an ice cream maker? This easy ice cream only has a few ingredients and can be customized to your taste every single time. We went with caramel and Snickers bars this time. But just think of all the combos you could come up with. I have a feeling a few more varieties will be showing up this summer in our freezer and on the blog.

There is something so satisfying about a cup or cone of ice cream on a hot summer day. I like to keep different varieties in my freezer for our kids to snack on. They hear the ice cream truck music coming, and I pull out the ice cream.

Is it just me or is there something scary about the music from that truck? I mean some guy driving slowly along tempting children to come to his vehicle…yeah, I’m going to keep my kids running to my freezer instead. Not to mention the price of one ice cream bar is crazy. That is almost scarier than the music and creepy truck.

This ice cream starts with heavy whipping cream. Make sure to freeze your bowl and wire whisk beater for at least 30 minutes before starting. The cold from the bowl will help the cream whip up faster. It takes about 5-7 minutes for the cream to get thick and fluffy. Set it aside. Now beat the cream cheese until creamy and slowly add the sweetened condensed milk. You can add your toppings to this mixture. Then fold the whipped cream into it. Folding just means slowly and carefully stir your whipped cream in so that the air doesn’t deflate. You can use a spatula to lift your mixture up and over. It sounds complicated, but it really isn’t that hard. You just don’t want to stir it vigorously.

Spoon 1/3 of the mixture into a freezer safe container and add a little bit of caramel. Swirl it with a knife. Repeat this 2 more times. Just be careful as you swirl, so you do not mess up the lower swirls. You want pockets of caramel in every scoop.

Now all you have to do is wait for it to freeze. I do recommend making it the night before you want to eat it. That way it is ready to go first thing in the morning. But if you waited until the afternoon, I suggest mowing the lawn or taking a walk while you wait.

Or find that scary ice cream music and buy an overpriced drumstick. Your call

*Make sure you check out We R Memory Keepers/Lifestyle Crafts for more cute packaging options. The code BRUCREW will save you 20% off your purchase!! I used the label die cuts that came with the Bakery Box Die Cut to make cute labels for our ice cream cups.

Caramel Snickers Ice Cream

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Caramel Snickers Ice Cream

Caramel and Snickers bars make this easy NO MACHINE ice cream a fun and delicious summer treat.

Ingredients

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1 - 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk

1 - 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened

1 1/2 cups chopped Snickers bars (8 oz. bag bites)

1 cup chocolate covered peanuts

1/4 cup caramel ice cream topping

Instructions

Place a metal bowl and wire whisk attachment in the freezer for at least 15 minutes.
Beat the heavy whipping cream for 5 - 7 minutes, until thick and creamy. Set aside.
Beat the cream cheese until creamy. Add the sweetened condensed milk slowly until mixed into the cream cheese. Gently stir in the Snickers bars and chocolate covered peanuts. Fold in the whipping cream.
Spoon 1/3 of the mixture into a freezer safe bowl. Spoon a little bit of caramel on top. Swirl with a knife. Repeat 2 more times, swirling the caramel very carefully each time. Freeze for 4-6 hours or overnight.

http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2014/06/caramel-snickers-ice-cream/

More delicious and fun desserts that have Snickers candy bars in:

Apple Snickers Cake

Peanut Butter Snickers Brownie Pie

Peanut Butter Snickers Cookies

Sweet treats from friends:

Snickers Muddy Buddies from Chef-In-Training
Frozen Snickers Pie from Shugary Sweets
Snickers Cupcakes from Life, Love, and Sugar

*I am a studio member for We R Memory Keepers/Lifestyle Crafts. I am sent products in exchange for sharing fun projects on my blog. No other compensation is given. All opinions are 100% my own.

Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Cake

May 27, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 20 Comments

Try this Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Cake for breakfast one morning and watch the smiles start to happen.

I may or may not be responsible for creating muffin and coffee cake snobs out of my children.

They have become so used to me adding chocolate chips to just about everything I bake. So, now when I make a fruity or plain dessert I get looks.

You know the looks? One eyebrow raised, wide eyed, and a hip stuck out…oh, wait I think that’s just the look my almost teenage daughter gives me on any topic. Naaaah, she’s a good kid, but don’t leave the chocolate chips out of the muffins and cake.

I started to get the looks when I admitted that I did not add chocolate chips to this coffee cake. Lucky for me, I DID add an entire bag of mini peanut butter cups to the cake. That got some smiles from my girl! She is definitely my child!

This coffee cake is really just an easy spice cake. Save a little bit of the dry ingredients to sprinkle on top for a streusel. After spreading the batter in a pan, sprinkle it with peanut butter cups and the streusel. Go ahead and cut the peanut butter cup minis in half. It makes them go a little bit farther, and the peanut butter melts into the cake as it bakes.

Any day that you can call peanut butter cups breakfast is going to an awesome day!

What have we learned today?
1. Don’t mess with teenage girls and their chocolate chips.
2. Coffee cake made with peanut butter cups is an awesome breakfast.

I think you need to add peanut butter cups to your shopping list right away

Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Cake

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 24 pieces of cake

Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Cake

A homemade spice cake topped with peanut butter cups and a crumb topping is a delicious way to start the day.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups flour

3/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 teaspoons cinnamon

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

3/4 cup oil

1 egg

1 cup butter milk

1 bag Reese's Minis, halved (8 ounce bag)

Instructions

Combine the flour, sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Remove 1/2 cup for topping.
Add the baking soda, oil, egg, and butter milk and stir until combined.
Spread in a greased 9x13 pan. Sprinkle with the peanut butter cups and reserved topping mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes. Remove from the oven and cool. Serve warm. Cut into 24 squares.

http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2014/05/peanut-butter-cup-coffee-cake/

A few more breakfast recipes that we enjoy around here:

Berry Coffee Cake

Coffee Chocolate Chip Muffins

Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes

May 20, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 42 Comments

These Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes show off an easy homemade chocolate cupcake topped with peppermint frosting and cute little mini York Peppermint Patties. Cupcakes this good are perfect for any party or picnic at any time of year.

I realize that you must think I am bonkers for posting a peppermint recipe as we head into the summer season.

Let me plead my case before you pass dessert judgment upon me! You see, to me Peppermint Patties get a bad rep of being a winter treat. Peppermint = a holiday flavor in everyone’s eyes.

I happen to absolutely love eating Peppermint Patties any time of year. They have that chilly refreshing taste that almost cools you off as you are eating them. Try freezing the peppermint patties and biting into one on a hot summer day. Instant chill factor for sure!

My second reason for making these cupcakes were these itty bitty Peppermint Patties I found.

A few weeks ago I was at Meijer grabbing a few items…ok, fine a cartload of baking stuff…when I saw this bag of unwrapped mini Peppermint Patties staring at me. Before I could even blink, two bags of candy jumped right into my cart. For realsies! I seriously don’t even remember reaching out and grabbing them.

After a minute of just staring at these cute candies, I realized that I didn’t need 2 bags. I know just how long they would last in my possession.

The smart thing to do was put one bag back on the shelf and buy one bag to bake something fun with, but for some reason my hands were frozen to the front of the cart. Finally after that inner dialogue between the good dessert angel and the bad dessert devil, I slowly removed one bag from the cart. I’m pretty sure I heard the candy pleading with me to buy it as I walked away.

What? You don’t hear candy talking to you? Hhhhmmm…maybe that was just that inner dessert devil talking again. What?? You don’t hear one of those either??? Ok, maybe I should keep these things to myself more often. You all are going to start thinking I’m a crazy lady. What’s that? You already do??? It’s ok, I can live with that

Now for the fun stuff. I came home with that bag of candy anxious to start baking. The first thing that came to mind was this chocolate cupcake. But then all night long I kept debating whether that seemed too holiday-ish! Finally I just gave up debating the issue and made cupcakes.

Now if you want to simplify things a little bit, you can use a chocolate box mix. I usually do too! BUT…I do have a fantastic homemade chocolate cupcake recipe that I like to break out every once in a while. You can mix the batter up in almost the same amount of time as a box. Promise me you will give it a try some time.

Start by sifting all the dry ingredients into one bowl. I like to use the Hershey’s dark cocoa powder for that rich, deep chocolate taste and look. You can use regular cocoa if that’s all you have in your cupboard.

Then whisk the oil, eggs, and extract in another bowl. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the buttermilk and hot water into the egg mixture. Beat for another minute and you are done. See how easy that is? Divide the batter into 24 cupcake liners and bake.

Beat together all the frosting ingredients while the cupcakes are baking. For this frosting, I used a little bit of peppermint extract. If you like a much stronger peppermint taste, go ahead and add more. Just be very careful to not add too much. Peppermint extract is very strong, and you can over do it quickly if you are not careful.

Then sit down and relax a bit while you wait for them to cool completely. Or go for a run or better yet, do some house work. It’s totally up to you how you wait. Just don’t let the mini Peppermint Patties talk you into opening the bag early. You will wish you had bought two bags! At least that’s what I hear…

Are you convinced yet that dark chocolate cupcakes with peppermint frosting is totally an all year treat?

Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 16 minutes

Yield: 24 cupcakes

Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes

Chocolate cupcakes topped with a peppermint frosting is a delicious way to have dessert.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cupcakes

2 1/4 cups flour

1 1/4 cups sugar

1/2 cup dark cocoa powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup vegetable oil

3 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla

3/4 cup buttermilk

3/4 cup hot water

For the Peppermint Butter Cream

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup shortening

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract*

4 cups powdered sugar

2 Tablespoons whipping cream

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

1/2 teaspoon shortening

24 mini York Peppermint Patties

Instructions

Sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Beat the oil, eggs, and vanilla until light and foamy. Add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk and hot water. Beat until everything is incorporated. Spoon the batter into 24 cupcake liners. Bake at 350 degrees for 16-18 minutes, or until a tester comes out somewhat clean. Let cool completely.
Beat the shortening, butter, and extracts until creamy. Slowly beat in the powdered sugar and whipping cream. Beat another minute until creamy. Use a piping bag and tip to swirl on top of the cupcakes.
Place the chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave safe bowl. Heat for 1 minute. Stir until creamy. Spoon into a ziplock baggie and cut one tip off. Drizzle quickly over the top of the frosting. Top with a mini Peppermint Pattie. Makes 24 cupcakes. Store in a sealed container.

Notes

*If you want a stronger peppermint taste, increase the peppermint extract to 1 teaspoon.

http://insidebrucrewlife.com/2014/05/chocolate-peppermint-cupcakes/

More Peppermint Pattie treats to chill your sweet tooth with:

White Chocolate Peppermint Pattie Popcorn

Peppermint Pattie Gooey Cake Bars

Oreo Peppermint Cookies

Apple Butterfinger Bars

May 14, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 41 Comments

Apples and Butterfinger candy bars are a delicious way to jazz up a plain blonde brownie.

**This post is sponsored by Crunch Pak Apples. I am excited to partner with them this year as a brand ambassador bringing you delicious recipes.**

We go through quite a few apples in our house. Lunches, after school snacks, and baking are a few ways we get that apple a day.

Our kids have never gone through that really picky stage where they wouldn’t eat fruits and vegetables. There are a few things that they don’t like, but they know that they will still have to eat some. Apples are one thing they have liked from the beginning, so we always keep them in our refrigerator.

With all the sweets and treats that come out of our kitchen, we make sure our kids know that fruits and veggies are an acceptable snack any time. [Read more...]

Java Twix Oatmeal Bars

May 6, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 47 Comments

Need a quick pick me up snack? Add some candy bars and coffee to an easy oatmeal bar cookie. These Java Twix Oatmeal Bars will have you grabbing two or three before you even know it.

I have realized that I bake in food stages. I get a particular food or flavor in my head and I just can’t stop adding it to different creations. Right now that food craze that I am digging is coffee.

Of course, most of you that read my blog regularly are thinking, “you use coffee all the time, this isn’t new.” And you would be right. But let’s not forget the banana phase where I posted banana treats for an entire week…and haven’t stopped. There is actually banana bread in my oven right this very second…and I added coffee to it

Oh, and the coconut phase that I go through once a year. Believe me, our kids are glad I have moved on from the coconut. Treats definitely don’t disappear as quickly when they know I have added the coconut to it. I keep hoping one day they will learn to love it as much as me. My daughter does like toasted coconut now, so I’m claiming that as a small victory. [Read more...]

Funfetti Birthday Cake M&M Cookies

April 11, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 31 Comments

These Funfetti Birthday Cake M&M Cookies start with a cake mix. By adding a few ingredients, you can have a delicious and soft cookie that everyone will love.

This week I celebrated my birthday away from home. My kids couldn’t believe that I would want to “work” instead of getting cake and presents. And by work, I mean go on a blogging trip with all expenses paid and good food in front of you at every meal. I’d say it was actually a pretty nice birthday treat. The only down side was not having my hubby and kids there on my birthday.

Although it was so fun to come home and have all three kids present me with handmade cards and presents. It feels good to be missed. They are so excited to take me out to dinner this weekend too. Now I just need to figure out what cake I want to bake for my late birthday celebration. The baker in me loves making my own cake every year [Read more...]

Triple Peanut Butter Cookie Pie

April 6, 2014 By Jocelyn Brubaker 48 Comments

Three times the peanut butter makes this Triple Peanut Butter Cookie Pie one dessert you don’t want to miss. Make sure you have a glass of milk or cup of coffee ready to wash down this rich, decadent, and truly amazing pie.

I puffy heart love peanut butter. It is one thing that I could use in baking every single time because I love it that much.

My husband on the other hand must be an alien because he doesn’t like peanut butter as much as me. He makes faces whenever I say I’m making more peanut butter desserts. I think it’s that alien side of him trying to get out.

Oh, he eats peanut butter with his apple slices almost every day. That man has the self control like no one I have ever seen. He prefers apples to dessert. What the what? That’s totally crazy talk! Now don’t get me wrong here. I do love apples too…just not for my dessert. Bring on the pie, candy, and Cool Whip because that’s how I like it! [Read more...]