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Search Results for: pie

Stuffing Muffins

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Stuffing Muffins are a fun way to change up the traditional Thanksgiving side dish.  Baking a stuffing recipe in muffin tins is a delicious way to serve it at your holiday dinners.

A blue plate with three stuffing muffins on it

Now that the sugar rush of Halloween is behind us, it is time to look forward to the holidays.  Do you realize that Thanksgiving is next week?

We only have a few days to finalize our dinner menus and plan all the food.

Basically from now until the new year, it is going to be a food fest with all the parties and events that will happen.

I better pace myself each day because I want to be able to enjoy every bite of apple crisp pie and this pumpkin cobbler.  

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Chocolate Covered Pretzels in a Turkey Jar

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Bright colored fall sprinkles and chocolate covered pretzels make the perfect tail feathers for this Pretzel Turkey Jar. This fun no bake treat will be the cutest edible centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dessert table.

A clear jar decorated to look like a turkey filled with chocolate covered pretzels and candies.

Ok, guys I have the easiest and cutest treat to share with you.  You just have to make a pretzel turkey for your Thanksgiving Day tables this year!

Yes, I'm sure you are already on top of things and have your turkey day menu already planned out with things like easy corn casserole, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, southern sweet potato souffle, and rolls.

But trust me, you need to add this fun and edible Thanksgiving craft to your plans too. Ok, maybe add two things to your plans because these small chocolate turkeys would be so cute on the table too!

The Cutest Pretzel Turkey

Everyone will be so impressed by your creativity when they see the turkey centerpiece on your dinner table. No one has to know just how easy it is to make.

Want to give it as a gift? Wrap the turkey jar with chocolate covered pretzels in a large plastic gift bag with a bow. Cute Thanksgiving pretzels are sure to make anyone smile this holiday season.

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Dirt Marshmallow Pops

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Make these easy no bake Dirt Marshmallow Pops for Halloween or school parties. This kid friendly snack will be the first thing to disappear off the dessert table.

Dirt Marshmallow Pops - add a gummy worm to these chocolate covered marshmallows for a fun and easy dirt dessert. Make this recipe for Halloween or school parties! #halloween #dirtdessert #marshmallowpops #chocolatecoveredmarshmallows #gummyworms #halloween #nobakedessert #chocolate #marshmallows

I just realized that Halloween is less than a week away.  Seriously you guys!  Where is the time going??? I feel like October just started...

Now that our kids are older they could care less about Halloween costumes, pumpkin carving, Ghost Cookies, or trick or treating.  Well, I think they might be considering walking the neighborhood for some candy, so they better find some sort of a costume.

How do you guys feel about teenagers and trick or treating?  I have mixed feelings on it.  If the teens put some effort into it and actually have a costume on, then I'm totally cool with it.

But the kids that show up at the door in street clothes have me a little tight fisted with my bowl of candy.  Is that wrong of me?

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Apple Praline Donuts

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Enjoy the taste of fall with these Apple Praline Donuts. Easy homemade donuts loaded with apples and pecans are a delicious way to start off any morning or afternoon.

Apple Praline Donuts - soft homemade donuts loaded with apple chunks and a sweet praline glaze makes a delicious fall breakfast. Enjoy this easy recipe on a cool fall day! #donuts #apple #pecans #praline #homemade #bakeddonuts #fall #recipes #breakfast #brunch #afterschoolsnack

Fall has finally arrived, at least on the calendar anyway. Here in Florida, fall is pretty much just summer with less humidity. I'm trying to trick myself into thinking it's fall by keeping my air conditioner set low and fall treats in my oven.

I have to admit that I'm totally missing all the fall traditions that we did with the kids when they were younger. Every fall we would go to a pumpkin patch and an apple orchard for a fun family day.

Even as the kids got older, they would humor me and go, even though they could care less about picking apples. They thought I was crazy to go to an orchard just so I could take pictures and bake another Apple Crisp Pie.  One day when they have their own kids, they will get it.

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Toffee Apple Cookies

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These Toffee Apple Cookies are soft, chewy, and full of fresh apple pieces, toffee bits, and graham cracker crumbs. Add a quick white chocolate drizzle for an easy fall cookie that tastes like apple pie!

A stack of four toffee apple pie cookies on parchment paper.

The recipe for these toffee apple pie cookies was first published in September 2012. I redid the pictures in October 2018, and then updated the post in September 2026.

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Fall baking is one of my favorite things, and I'm always looking for new ways to use fresh apples. We make a caramel apple pie every year, and this homemade apple pie filling makes the whole house smell amazing as it cooks. But these toffee apple pie cookies might be my new favorite!

I wanted to take all those classic apple pie flavors and turn them into an easy drop cookie. Graham cracker crumbs in the dough add a crust flavor, and then I added fresh apple pieces, toffee bits, and spices. The result is a soft, chewy cookie that really does taste like apple pie!

And here's the best part. The fresh fruit keeps these cookies soft for days! I made a batch, and 5 days later, they still tasted just as good as on day 1. That makes them perfect for making ahead for a holiday cookie exchange, fall party, or anytime you want a cookie that's a little different from the usual.

Why You'll Love These Toffee Apple Pie Cookies

  • Apple pie in cookie form. Graham cracker crumbs are the secret ingredient that gives the cookies a little pie crust flavor.
  • Soft for days. Fresh apples keep these cookies soft and tender for almost a week.
  • Toffee and white chocolate. Buttery toffee bits add a little crunch, while a white chocolate drizzle makes the cookies extra pretty.
  • Great for sharing. These are a fun addition to fall cookie trays or holiday cookie exchanges. And if you bring them somewhere, be prepared to share the recipe!

If you are looking for more easy fall cookies, try our pumpkin snickerdoodles or cardamom cookies. Both are so good for fall baking!

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Peanut Butter Candy Corn Pizza

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This giant Peanut Butter Candy Corn Pizza is layered with melted marshmallows, peanuts, candy corn, and Reese's Pieces.  It is one crazy awesome fall dessert you need to experience.

Peanut Butter Candy Corn Pizza - This giant peanut butter cookie is topped with melted marshmallows, peanuts, and candy corn. This is the perfect fall dessert! #cookie #fall #cookiepizza #peanutbutter #candycorn #dessertpizza #easy #recipe

Why are fall treats so much fun to make and eat?

I mean pumpkin, apple, and candy corn seem to be all over the blog and Pinterest world.  I'm so glad there are so many more crazy bakers out there.

Is anyone else here a candy corn lover?  I have to admit that I really do like those orange, yellow, and white candies.  What can I say?  It's made out of sugar, and I love it.

Last year I made these Peanut Butter Candy Corn Blonde Brownies with my leftovers. It was such a delicious way to enjoy a little more candy corn love!

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Behind BruCrew Life

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Last month was another busy one for the BruCrew family.  We had fun doing some last minute family activities before the kids headed back to college and school.

One of the big things that happened in August was that my cookbook Cheesecake Love was featured in Woman's World magazine. It was exciting to see a few of my pictures on the front cover and also in a three page spread.

It has been almost a year since it hit shelves, and I'm still pinching myself that I had such an awesome opportunity to write all about cheesecake.

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Easy Football Party Ideas

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Planning a game day party does not need to be hard or exhausting. These Easy Football Party Ideas will get you excited to plan a simple party where you can enjoy food, friends, and cheering on your favorite team.

Easy Football Party Ideas - host simple game day parties this fall with these easy party planning tips for decorations, snacks, drinks, and desserts. #footballparty #gameday #gamedaysnacks #farmrich #ad #winndixie #partytips

Did you know that "homegating" is the new tailgating?  Please tell me I'm not the only one that didn't know this new phrase (which I'm loving BTW).

You don't need to go through the hassle of packing up your food, chairs, and drinks and driving across town to watch a game with friends anymore.  Planning and hosting a party in the comfort of your own home with easy convenient snacks is the new way to do football parties.

I love putting together easy themed parties and having friends over to our house. Good food, fun decorations, loud cheering, and wonderful company is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening. [Read more...]

Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

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Homemade strawberry shortcake topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream is a classic dessert that is delicious any time of year.

Homemade biscuits layered with whipped cream and sugared strawberries on a white plate.
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The last time I made a batch of salted caramel scones, I wondered if the recipe could be tweaked to make a sweet strawberry shortcake dough.

I realize that strawberry shortcake is usually served as a cake, but I have always been a fan of a flaky biscuit topped with juicy berries.

When I was growing up, we always made the strawberry shortcake recipe from the back of the Bisquick box. Honestly, I still love that recipe and use it every now and then when I make this Oreo strawberry shortcake.

But after making this homemade strawberry shortcake from scratch, I have decided that homemade is the best way to go.

Why You'll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

  • A timeless summer dessert. There is just something about strawberry shortcake that makes everyone smile. It is classic, simple, and always delicious.
  • Fresh ingredients make all the difference. Juicy, ripe strawberries and homemade whipped cream piled on a flaky, homemade biscuit are the kind of dessert that makes summer feel complete.
  • Easier to make than you think. The biscuits come together so fast, and the entire dessert is ready in under an hour. Homemade does not have to mean complicated.
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Mini Butterfinger Cheesecakes

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Mini Butterfinger Cheesecakes are an easy treat to make using a cupcake pan. Each one is topped with a creamy peanut butter mousse and candy bar pieces. They are the perfect dessert for any occasion.

A white board with mini cheesecakes topped with Butterfingers on it.

It's no secret that we love to make cheesecake around here. Sometimes there is just not enough time to make a full sized cheesecake. That's when I pull out the cupcake pan and make mini cheesecakes.

Some of our favorites lately have been these blueberry cheesecakes, mini peanut butter cheesecakes, these mini turtle cheesecake, and now these butterfinger cheesecake bites.

I mean what's not to love about a mini cheesecake loaded with lots of candy bars. Am I right?

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Sometimes you want a dessert that is easy to make and doesn't take much time. Most cheesecake recipes are complicated and can be time consuming to make.

These mini Butterfinger cheesecakes are the perfect solution. The batter is easy to make, and they can be made in a cupcake pan. Plus, who doesn't love peanut butter and chocolate?

Each one is topped with a creamy peanut butter mousse and lots of candy bar pieces, so they will definitely impress your guests.

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Behind BruCrew Life

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Last month was a crazy month of traveling and adventures for the BruCrew family. And of course, as soon as we got home it was right into work and getting ready for school.

So it has taken me a while to go through all the photos from our trips to be able to share the fun things we did and found in July.

Summer in Florida usually means lots of storms and rain in the afternoons. But that also means quite a few gorgeous skies and rainbows after the fact. We were headed into Sam's one afternoon after a rainstorm, and we got to witness this pretty rainbow. It was actually a double rainbow, but I didn't get a very good picture of that.

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Exploring Key West in a Day

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If you find yourself on the island from a cruise or just taking a day trip, Exploring Key West in a Day is possible. Make sure you wear good walking shoes and use sunscreen because you will be out all day.

Exploring Key West in a Day - if you have one day to explore Key West, here are a few fun places that you should visit. #keywest #florida #travel #roadtrip #sunshinestate

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A few months ago, we took a family road trip and discovered Fun Things to Do while Driving the Florida Keys. Of course, our journey took us to the end of the islands where we spent a full day exploring Key West.

There are so many things to do in Key West, but we only had one day. So we picked a few attractions and things to visit and left the rest for another trip.  [Read more...]

Fun Things To Do While Driving the Florida Keys

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One of our first family trips this summer was to find fun Things To Do In FL Keys. We packed our bags, loaded up our vehicle, and set out to find food and adventures while driving the Keys.

A sunset picture with a text box on it.

Earlier this summer we decided to take a big week long family vacation. Our kids love cruising, so we booked one that had four stops in the Western Caribbean. Four days before the boat was to set sail, we found out that the boat had to have maintenance, and the itinerary had changed to two ports.

When we are paying that much money for a 7 day cruise, we were not ok with spending 3 days in Tampa.  Especially since we live close to there and can go any time we like.

Since driving the Florida Keys has been on my husband's bucket list for quite some time, we scrambled to cancel that particular cruise and planned a quick road trip through the Florida Keys and a short three day cruise from Tampa.

It wasn't what we were planning, but hey, we are learning to roll with the punches and not get bent out of shape when things don't go the way we plan.   [Read more...]

Coffee Ice Cream Cake

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Skip the store-bought cake and make this coffee ice cream cake at home instead. An Oreo cookie crust with a gooey fudge center between cookies and cream and coffee ice cream makes every slice impressive. It's the best homemade frozen dessert for birthdays, summer parties, and coffee lovers everywhere!

A slice of coffee ice cream cake with an Oreo crust and a layer of cookies and cream ice cream.
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Living in Florida means that frozen desserts are basically a food group around here. When it is hot and sticky outside, which is about 10 months a year, nothing beats a cold treat from the freezer.

My husband's favorite birthday cake is actually a Dairy Queen cake, and he has passed that love down to our daughter. For years, she has requested one for her birthday.

I love that I can make a homemade ice cream cake for a fraction of the cost of buying one from the store. Plus, then I can customize every layer to her exact preferences.

Over the years, she has helped me come up with some really fun flavor combinations. Two of her favorites were this mint chocolate chip ice cream cake and this chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream cake.

So, it was no surprise when she requested another frozen cake for her latest birthday. Our girl loves coffee and Oreos, so I combined those flavors to create a beautiful layered coffee ice cream cake that was a hit!

Why Make This Coffee Ice Cream Dessert

  • Looks fancy but is so easy. Those layers of Oreo crust, ice cream, and cookie fudge make every slice look like a bakery creation. Nobody needs to know how simple it really was!
  • A cookie fudge center! Hot fudge and Oreo cookie chunks in between the layers are the best surprise ever!
  • Make it ahead of time. This cake needs time to freeze overnight anyway, so do all the work today and just decorate tomorrow.
  • Fun to customize. Swap in any frozen flavors you love and make it totally your own.
  • Perfect for any occasion. Birthdays, summer, the Fourth of July, or just a weeknight when the heat is unbearable. This cake always works!
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Chocolate S'mores Pudding Cake

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A graham cracker crust, chocolate pudding, and a marshmallow topping make this Chocolate S'mores Pudding Cake the perfect summer dessert for picnics and parties.

A white plate with a piece of chocolate s'mores pudding cake on it with graham crackers, chocolate bars, and marshmallows on top

By now you know that I love all things s'mores, but I still do not love the sticky mess that comes from kids roasting marshmallows.

Even with older children comes the scariness of a pointy stick and fire.  It must be the mom in me that cringes when those two things get together.  I realize that I am not alone in this aversion to how s'mores are made when I talk with friends.

But there is something about the summer, and the need for all things s'mores.  I have been having fun creating s'mores that do not need campfires to be enjoyed this summer.

These S'mores Cookie Cups were one sweet treat that I can't wait to make again.

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Nutella S'mores Granola Bars

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Chocolate chips and marshmallows add a fun twist to these No Bake Nutella S'mores Granola Bars.  S'mores for breakfast will have everyone smiling as they start the day.

Overhead picture of a row of nutella s'mores granola bars lined up on wax paper

The recipe and post for these Nutella S'mores Granola Bars was originally published in February 2014. The photos and post were updated and republished in July 2018.

Lately, we have become obsessed with making all things granola.  Homemade granola and granola bites have been happening every single week for the past month because we love them so much.

I'm trying to space them out, sharing them here because I'm sure you are not as obsessed as we are. But, seriously, skip the store-bought snacks and make your own chewy granola bars.

Our granola obsession all started with these Peanut Butter Granola Bites a few years ago and has just spiraled out of control with this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Granola.

Let's just say that the big container of rolled oats in the cupboard is down to the last few oats.  Mental note:  add more old-fashioned oats to this week's grocery list.

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Behind BruCrew Life

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The past two months have been full of fun, food, and family. We have been so busy that I got a little behind on sharing these little life posts, so be prepared for lots of pictures and events in this post.

Our kids finished up the school year at the end of May, so we took a family vacation, ate lots of good food, and enjoyed some lazy summer days together.

My husband was out of town on Mother's Day, so the kids decided to surprise me with flowers and lunch.

For some reason I was craving some sort of eggs, so we headed to a little cafe downtown called Station 400 after church.

It's actually an old train station from Indiana that they moved down to Florida and turned into a cute breakfast/brunch spot.

The inside is long and narrow with room for a few tables, so they utilize the outside with a patio to one side and tables around the front and other side.

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Patriotic Glazed Funfetti Donuts

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These fun Patriotic Glazed Funfetti Donuts will brighten any morning.  The swirls of red, white, and blue glaze topped with star sprinkles will make anyone smile first thing in the morning.

Add a batch of Chocolate Covered Strawberry Donuts to give everyone some options for their coffee.

Red white and blue glazed donuts on a white wire rack.
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I love making desserts for the holidays. In fact, here is a list for my top 20 patriotic desserts.

This year I got this idea to swirl a red, white, and blue glaze on top of donuts for the 4th of July. And of course, I couldn't rest until I got into the kitchen and tried it out ahead of time.

Have you seen all the different galaxy donuts floating around the web?  This is a fun patriotic variation of those homemade donuts.

To give the patriotic donuts even more color, I added red, white, and blue sprinkles to the donut batter. Then after they were baked, I added some gold glitter stars to the top of the glaze. It make them look kind of like a swirled flag donut.

Best idea ever! It upped the awesome factor at least by ten notches. Well, in my head that is.

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S'mores Marshmallow Fluff Dessert

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This summer, make a big bowl of this Marshmallow Fluff Dessert for picnics. It's creamy and sweet with the perfect s'mores flavor. Chocolate bars, marshmallows, and graham crackers make this fluff salad disappear in a hurry.

Love dessert salads?  Check out this awesome banana split fluff.  All your favorite sundae toppings in one big dessert salad.

A blue bowl filled with a fluffy marshmallow salad.
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Over the years, I have made quite a few different fluff salads. A creamy pudding salad loaded with mix-ins is never a bad idea. Plus, a sweet treat that you can call a "salad" is awesome!

Chocolate lovers always love my chocolate salad, and lemon lovers enjoy this lemon fluff salad.

Last week, I realized that I needed to add s'mores fluff to my list of delicious dessert salads. Instead of using pudding, I used cream cheese and whipped cream to give it a creamy texture.

Why You'll Love This Marshmallow Fluff Dessert

  • Marshmallow fluff dessert is the perfect sweet treat for s'mores lovers. It has chunks of candy bars, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces.
  • It is easy to make in minutes and even easier to eat. Serve it with spoons or graham cracker squares.
  • You will be the hit of any picnic when you show up with this s'mores fluff. It's creamy, chocolatey, and absolutely irresistible.

Bonus: If you love S'mores, check out this list of 31 of the best s'mores recipes!

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Salted Caramel Reese's Popcorn

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Add this Salted Caramel Reese's Popcorn to your movie night plans.  Two kinds of Reese's candy and a sprinkling of sea salt creates a sweet and salty treat that will disappear in a hurry. I suggest making  a double batch.

Try this S'mores Popcorn for a fun treat this summer. Perfect way to get your chocolate and marshmallow fix without the work of a fire.

Salted Caramel Reese's Popcorn - this easy snack mix is loaded with salted caramel and two kinds of Reese's candies. Make this recipe to munch on during movie nights! #popcorn #saltedcaramel #peanutbuttercups #reesespieces #snackmix #nobake #sweetandsalty

Recently we joined a new gym. I thought I was in shape from working out and lifting weights in our garage gym.  Apparently when you work out alone, you don't push yourself as much because I was dying the first week.

The weight days have been fine. My muscles are pretty strong from keeping up with my 5x5 lifts, but my cardio is totally lacking. I was gasping and breathing so hard on the first couple of cardio days. Who am I kidding? I'm still struggling. But the plan is to keep going and to keep toning my dessert loving body and to eat more lean and green meals.

I would much rather be munching on things like Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars and Banana Chocolate Chip Cheesecakes instead of being so dedicated to clean eating, but then my shorts and jeans get mad at me. All things in moderation, right? A little dessert and a lot of greens and workouts keep me going strong! 

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Milk Chocolate S'mores Fudge

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Chocolate candy bars, graham crackers, and mini marshmallows add a fun flavor and texture to this S'mores Fudge. Such an easy no bake dessert for summer.

A white plate with squares of chocolate marshmallow fudge on it.

Something about summer says s'mores. There is just something about that chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker combo. It's a treat I could enjoy every night. 

The problem is that in the middle of summer, it really is too hot to sit around a bonfire and make s'mores. My solution is to create these fun chocolate marshmallow treats in the kitchen far, far away from a blazing fire.

Some of our favorites so far are these s'more granola bars, this s'mores popcorn, and these peanut butter s'more bars.

Yummy sweet s'mores without the mess and danger of a fire in summer. Now that's the way I like it.

Why You Will Love It

S'mores fudge is a great option for hot summer months because it requires no baking or cooking. So, it is perfect when you do not want to heat up your house with the oven.

Frosting fudge is easy to make in minutes without using a candy thermometer. It is the perfect quick and easy treat for summer. You can even make fudge with potatoes. You might be surprised to find out how good potato fudge is!

In under 20 minutes you can have a pan of fudge cooling on your counter.

So whether you enjoy your s'mores made over a crackling fire or in the comfort of your kitchen, this easy chocolate fudge recipe is for you.

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Balsamic Caprese Veggie Salad

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A big bowl of this Balsamic Caprese Veggie Salad is a refreshing side dish that goes with any meal. It's a great healthy option to bring to all those summer picnics and potlucks.

Drizzle this Homemade Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette on top right before serving and watch it disappear.

Balsamic Caprese Veggie Salad - this fresh and easy veggie salad is a healthy option to enjoy all summer long. Make this recipe to have with chicken or burgers. #salad #healthy #tomatoes #cucumber #picnic #sidedish #veggies #leanandgreen

At the moment I could eat this veggie salad for every meal and be happy about it.  Ok, ok, I would probably not be as happy eating it for breakfast. But you know what I mean, right?

We are still going strong with our healthy eating around here.  Well, for the most part. Every so often we indulge and make these Mini Strawberry Pies or these White Chocolate Mochaccino Chippers. The sweet tooth has to have something every once in a while as a reward for hitting it hard in the gym and eating right.

Although, with swim suit season here, I am trying really hard not to eat all the sweets in the house.  Trust me, I really do want to hide in my baking pantry and eat chocolate chips by the handfuls. But I'm resisting that urge because I just bought new summer clothes that I want to be able to still fit in.  

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Privacy Policy for Inside BruCrew Life updated on May 1, 2022.

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If you have any questions regarding this policy and our privacy practices, please email Jocelyn at insidebrucrewlife@gmail.com

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Red White and Blue Parfaits

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Layers of cookies, white chocolate cheesecake, and fresh fruit make these Red White and Blue Parfaits perfect for 4th of July picnics. This delicious no bake dessert is easy for anyone to make in minutes.

Be sure to add a batch of these chocolate cheesecake parfaits for the chocolate lover in the group too.

Cheesecake parfaits made with a layer of fresh fruit.
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Cheesecake is our go to dessert when we need something fancy and delicious to take to dinner parties. But sometimes it is just too hot to turn on the oven, so that's when no bake desserts come in handy.

No bake cheesecake parfaits are so easy to make because you do not need to have any baking skills. Some of our favorites are these peanut butter and pina colada parfaits.

Since 4th of July is just around the corner, I decided to make a white chocolate parfait using red and blue fruit.  

Why Make Cheesecake Parfaits

Red white and blue parfaits are the perfect patriotic treat. They are easy to make, and everyone loves how fancy they look.

Layers of white cheesecake, red strawberries, and blue blueberries are the perfect way to show your American pride at dessert. These cheesecake cups will be the hit of any 4th of July party or picnic.

Chocolate covered strawberries decorated with star sprinkles and a little paper flag add the perfect extra touch to the top of each parfait.

[Read more...]

Dark Chocolate Buttercream Frosting

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This rich and smooth Dark Chocolate Buttercream Frosting will satisfy any chocolate lover. It's the perfect topping for cakes, cupcakes, or cookies. You will never buy store-bought chocolate icing again after trying this homemade frosting recipe.

A bowl filled with a swirl of dark chocolate frosting.

When it comes to chocolate desserts, I say the darker the better.  Of course, that's my personal opinion. I do realize not everyone shares this love for rich dark chocolate goodness.

In fact, I used to be an all milk chocolate kind of girl. Hello, M&M's.  Those sweet little milk chocolate candies are still my favorite.  But then my husband introduced me to dark chocolate, and my world was changed.

Dark chocolate takes some time to get used to. The difference between dark chocolate and milk chocolate is that there is more cocoa bean content in the dark chocolate. Milk chocolate has sugars and creams added to it to sweeten the flavor.

Honesty, I'm not picky, though.  I'll eat any chocolate you put in front of me. 

[Read more...]

Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Apple Rings

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A chocolate coating and peanut butter filling add a fun flair to these Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Apple Rings. They make a fun and delicious no bake treat to share with family and friends.

Use your extra bags of apples to make this easy Crock Pot Cinnamon Strawberry Applesauce this summer. It's a delicious cool snack on a hot summer day.

*This post was sponsored by Crunch Pak apples.  I am partnering with them as a blog ambassador creating delicious apple recipes. All opinions are 100% my own.

Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Apple Rings - a chocolate coating and peanut butter filling make these easy no bake apple rings a fun treat. Great recipe to make for any party or event. #apple #peanutbutter #reesespieces #crunchpak #sponsored #nobake #mothersday #applerings #chocolate

CLICK HERE TO PIN THIS RECIPE FOR LATER!

I have come to the conclusion that I should not attempt to care for live plants. My thumbs are seriously so black that I have killed multiple cactuses. Yes, plants that doesn't need much water have died on my watch.

Every year at this time, my family likes to buy me plants for Mother's Day. Now most of the plants that we have put in the ground have survived because we used a sprinkler.  Most of them lived that is.  I actually did really well at keeping the plants we planted in our backyard garden alive last year too.

The cactus on the dining room shelf though didn't have the same fate. And the herbs I purchased earlier this year for our kitchen window died a tragic death too.

Every single time we have purchased live plants for the inside of our home, I have managed to kill them. I'm pretty sure plants know that they are going home to die when I pick them up because they seem to wilt when they walk through our door.  Maybe I'm just imagining that though.   [Read more...]

Pulled Pork Burrito Bowls

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I could eat these pulled pork burrito bowls every week! Tender slow-cooked pork, fresh veggies, cauliflower rice, and a creamy avocado lime dressing make these bowls filling, fresh, and so good. Plus, they're easy to customize, so everyone can build a bowl they love.

A pork burrito bowl piled with meat, veggies, cheese, and dressing.
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One of our favorite places to grab dinner is Chipotle. When our youngest was little, he ordered the same veggie bowl every time, while I always went for the pork carnitas. There's just something about that tender pork piled high with veggies that I can't resist.

One week, I was craving a big, loaded bowl but didn't feel like going out to eat. So I started this slow cooker pulled pork first thing in the morning, and by dinner, the whole house smelled amazing. I chopped up all our favorite toppings, made some cauliflower rice, and an avocado lime ranch dressing to go with it.

We loved these bowls so much that we ate them two nights in a row, and nobody complained. That's a win in my book!

I also love that everyone can make their bowl exactly how they like it. Just put all the toppings out and let everyone build their own. It's an easy dinner when everyone has different tastes!

Why You'll Love These Pork Burrito Bowls

  • Set it and forget it. Get the slow cooker going in the morning, and dinner practically takes care of itself. Best feeling ever on a busy night!
  • Light but filling. Cauliflower rice and plenty of fresh toppings make dinner satisfying without feeling heavy.
  • Everyone gets what they like. Put out all the toppings and let everyone create their own bowl. Even picky eaters can make something they love!
  • Great for meal prep. Keep everything in separate containers and enjoy easy, delicious bowls throughout the week.
[Read more...]

Behind BruCrew Life

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Our family has been busy the past few weeks.  We enjoyed some family down in Florida for a week. Our oldest was home from college for a week, and then we flew out to Arizona for a week of spring break fun.  In between all of that here are a few moments we enjoyed here in Florida.

I was scrolling through Facebook mindless a few weeks ago, and an ad for a local blueberry farm popped up.  I don't know how FB knew that I wanted to make these Blueberry Scones again.

The next Saturday morning my husband and I got up and drove down to this blueberry farm for a bucket of berries. All he wanted to know was why we were picking blueberries when we can buy them at the store?

Did you know that blueberry plants in Florida are grown in pots?  I have never seen blueberries grown this way. Maybe it was just this particular farm?  Anyone know why? I guess I will have to go back for more blueberries, just so I can ask.

[Read more...]

No Bake Strawberry Daiquiri Cheesecake Parfaits

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These pretty pink No Bake Strawberry Daiquiri Cheesecake Parfaits are the perfect easy dessert for spring and summer parties or picnics. The creamy strawberry filling on a hot day is delicious and refreshing.

No bake desserts with layers of no bake cheesecake and cookies make a delicious treat that everyone will love.  Add a batch of these No Bake Peanut Butter Fudge Cheesecake Parfaits and watch everyone go crazy for these mini cheesecake parfaits.

A small cup with pink no bake strawberry daiquiri cheesecake in it surrounded by strawberries.

I realized this weekend that I missed strawberry season here in Florida. This past weekend I saw an ad pop up on Facebook for a u-pick blueberry farm. So my husband and I headed out Saturday morning to pick berries.

After we got home, I remembered that blueberries usually ripen later than strawberries. I guess I'll have to rely on the grocery store or farmer's market if I want to make more strawberry cheesecake parfaits this month. At least now I know for next year, right?

I'm not used to thinking about berry picking until late May or June because we lived in the midwest for over 16 years. It was always one of my favorite things to do with our kids when they were little. This year, they were not about to get up early to pick berries though.

Thank goodness for a loving husband who went and picked berries, even though he thought it would be easier to just go buy them at the store. [Read more...]

No Bake Shamrock Shake Cheesecake Cones

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These No Bake Shamrock Shake Cheesecake Cones are a fun and easy dessert that comes together in minutes. Green sugar and a cherry makes this mint treat look just like the popular shake.

3 ice cream cones filled with green shamrock cheesecake topped with a cherry.

It's crazy how fast time is going these days.  I mean it's the end of February already, and I feel like the new year just started.  And it's not just this year that's going by fast. I feel like it was just yesterday that our kids were tiny, and now they are teenagers.

The other day we were driving home from church, and our son started playing one of his very first videos that he made playing computer games online. It took my husband and I a second to realize that it was actually him speaking.

The little voice on the video was so cute and young sounding.  Now his voice is much deeper. It was crazy to listen to the younger one and then hear one from recently.  Like I said time is flying!!!

I also feel like I just made these fun Shamrock Shake Sugar Cookie Bars, but that was a year ago too. Where has the time gone?  

[Read more...]

Behind BruCrew Life

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Hey, guys!  I thought it would be fun to get back to sharing all the extra pictures and activities behind BruCrew Life.  I used to do this behind the scenes look and a top ten post more regularly. For some reason it just kind of slowed down to a few times a year.

But this week I had the urge to get back to some of the things that I used to share before doing recipes full time. It's a fun way to just show some of the randomness of life that happens in our house and how normal we are.  Or maybe how abnormal we are. LOL!

 

Last month the kids were out of school for MLK day, so we headed to Universal for some rides and Butter Beer. Islands of Adventure is so pretty at night.

The kids decided that since the line for the Jurassic water ride was only 5 minutes that they wanted to go on it. It was like 57 degrees that evening, but that didn't stop them from going down 5 times in a row. The first few times they just got a few drips, but by the last ride they were soaked. Crazies!

[Read more...]

32 Pizza Inspired Recipes

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Add these 32 Pizza Inspired Recipes to your meal rotation and watch your family smile. Pizza related food always gets two thumbs up around our table.

A collage of 12 different pizza appetizers.

Our kids request pizza at least five out of seven nights a week. Seriously! And I really think they would be ok with eating it that often too. Now obviously we don't, but I love finding ways to include those pizza flavors into their after school snacks or our dinners.

Over the years I have added pizza toppings to soups, cheese balls, sandwiches, pasta, and so many more things. I have a feeling that I can find more ways to add it to a few more recipes, so that's my goal this year.

Today I thought I would share these 32 pizza inspired recipes from our blog and others with you. There are quite a few recipes that would be awesome on your game day food tables if you still need savory ideas for the big game on Sunday. I know the only reason I show up for game day parties is to see what goodies I can fill my plate with.

[Read more...]

Loaded Pizza Cheese Ball

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A plate of pretzels and this Loaded Pizza Cheese Ball is the perfect snack to munch on during game days. It is so easy to customize this easy appetizer with your favorite pizza toppings!

*I am partnering with Red Gold® as a brand ambassador this year creating recipes using canned tomatoes. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

A cheese ball covered in mini pepperonis on a plate.

CLICK HERE TO PIN THIS RECIPE FOR LATER!

It has been absolutely frigid here the past few days. Ok, so maybe frigid isn't the word I should be using when I live in sunny Florida. We went back home to Indiana over the holidays, and it was definitely a whole lot colder there.

The other day I was snuggling under the warm covers scrolling through Instagram, and I saw quite a few people braving the -degree weather to enjoy things like running and football games. I am definitely a fair weather fan. If it's cold outside, I'm not leaving my house. For anything. Well, maybe for a quick run to the grocery store, then it's back to my blanket and cup of hot coffee.

During the cold winter months, my favorite way to watch any kind of game is on my couch wrapped in a big fuzzy blanket with a table of food just within in arms reach.  Game days are a whole lot more fun when I can feel my fingers and stuff my face with appetizers. I mean veggies... [Read more...]

Top Ten BruCrew Recipes From 2017

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It's always fun to look back over the year and see all the fun recipes we have shared here on the blog. Thank you so much for another awesome year! I appreciate all the support from each and every one of you. It's always fun to get emails and comments from those of you who have tried recipes.

One of my favorite things to do at the end of the year is to see what recipes were the most popular. This year the top ten BruCrew recipes from 2017 were desserts. I have to admit some of these were some of my favorites too.

It was also interesting to see that most of these recipes were ones that we made a short how to video for as well. Are you guys loving these easy videos? I'm excited to continue making them.

Top Ten BruCrew Life Recipes from 2017 - the top 10 dessert recipes from this year in one place. Easy desserts that look and taste amazing are perfect for any party!

CLICK HERE TO PIN THESE RECIPES FOR LATER!

Did your favorite recipe make this list? I would love to hear if you have made any of these recipes and what one was your favorite.  Also, are there recipes that you would love to see on the blog next year?  Send me a message or leave a comment with your requests.

If you missed these the first time around, here are the links to the top recipes of 2017.  [Read more...]

Spiced Apple Waffles

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Serve these warm Spiced Apple Waffles with maple apple cranberry sauce and whipped cream. Make this homemade waffle recipe for weekend breakfasts or holidays.

Spiced Apple Waffles - these easy homemade waffles are loaded with apple flavor. Add a spoonful of apple cranberry sauce for even more apple goodness. Easy breakfast recipe to make ahead of time!

A few weeks ago my husband was out of town for a work trip, so the kids and I were on our own making dinner.  If you have been around here very long, you know that meant our main dinner maker was gone.  I don't mind making dinner, and I'm not bad at it.  But given the choice between making dinner or dessert, I'm going to go for dessert every single time.

I decided to let the kids choose what things they wanted for dinner that week. Our youngest absolutely loves this Spicy Chicken and Rice Soup with slices of cheese on the side, so I knew he would be asking for that again.  Don't tell him that I substituted this Easy Cauliflower Rice in it though.  Making it lean and green can be our little secret.

Our daughter doesn't mind eating healthy foods, but her choices for the week were Spicy Parmesan Ranch Chicken Tenders with fries and breakfast for dinner. Total comfort food both nights!   [Read more...]

Peanut Butter Avalanche Fudge

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Pockets of fluffy marshmallows, chocolate chips, and crunchy cereal makes this easy no bake Peanut Butter Avalanche Fudge a must make treat for the holidays.

Peanut Butter Avalanche Fudge - sweet peanut butter fudge loaded with pockets of marshmallow, cereal, and chocolate. This no bake fudge recipe will become a favorite quickly!

It's that time of year.  Time to make and eat all the fudge!  The funny thing is that I love to make (and eat) fudge all year long.  At one point I was trying to make a new fudge recipe every month because why should winter get all the fudge fun, right?

There are so many good ones out there like potato fudge and fantasy fudge! But then I got distracted and started making cake mix cookies and cheesecake.

Why do most people think fudge is just a holiday treat?  Probably because fudge and cookies are the perfect thing to make for dessert exchanges or for giving away as gifts.

I actually have been holding out on a few fudge recipes.  This peanut butter avalanche fudge was one I made this past summer for a church activity, and then I promptly forgot to share it with you.

[Read more...]

No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Bars

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Bright colors and lots of sprinkles make these easy No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Bars stand out on your Christmas dessert table.  The bright colors make it the perfect dessert for all the elves in your life.

No Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Bars topped with a chocolate covered pretzel star on a white plate.

So, I did something scary last night. My husband and I did a live post on my Facebook page. Honestly, I thought I would be more nervous as it got closer to our start time, but it wasn't until right before he pushed the play button that I forgot everything I wanted to say.

The video started sideways, so it totally made me more relaxed because that's just life. Nothing is perfect, and you just have to roll with it, right?  We shared some family holiday traditions and then answered some questions about blogging and baking. It was so easy and fun, that we are planning on doing more in the upcoming year.  Does that sound good to you?

This fun, bright, colored, crazy cheesecake is another thing I just had to roll with. Earlier this year I made these fun no bake rainbow unicorn cheesecake bars, and everyone has gone nuts for them.  The original video got a lot of views, and the pictures have been pinned tons of times on Pinterest.  Well, that got me thinking.  How could I turn those fun cheesecake bars into a holiday treat?  

[Read more...]

Chocolate Mint Oreo Fudge

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Cookie chunks and mint chips make this Chocolate Mint Oreo Fudge a creamy no bake treat that will disappear off your holiday dessert tables in no time at all.

*Sign up for the free BruCrew Life email to have these delicious recipes sent to your inbox.

3 pieces of chocolate fudge loaded with green mint cookies and mint chips on a white doily.

I'm trying really hard this year to get into the holiday spirit.  This is our first winter living in a very warm climate. Not going to lie. It's kind of strange to look over at our decorated tree by the patio door and see the open blue pool and bright sunny skies behind it.

It's also so strange to be driving around town and see all the holiday decorations around the beach and palm trees. We are totally loving beach life, but I think this first Christmas will feel different no matter what we do.

So in order to keep our holiday spirits up, I am taking it upon me to keep the air conditioner blasting cold air while I make tons of festive treats. It's a mission I think I am up for. 

[Read more...]

Frosted Mocha Shortbread Cookie Sticks

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These easy Frosted Mocha Shortbread Cookie Sticks are a pretty treat to add to your holiday trays this year. Lots of fun sprinkles make them stand out and disappear first.

*Stevia In The Raw® sponsored this post. I am partnering with them to create recipes for the fall season. All opinions expressed are 100% my own.

Frosted Mocha Shortbread Cookie Sticks - sweet chocolate cookies topped with white chocolate and lots of sprinkles will stand out on your cookie trays. Easy recipe for holiday parties!

Every year, right before the holidays get busy, I like to make a few lists of treats and sweets that I want to make for the holidays. Some of these desserts get made ahead of time because I like to test each recipe a few times to see if they will make the final list.

Right now I have a list that includes fudge, cheesecake, popcorn, pie, cookies, and a tart. I have a feeling I better get a move on testing recipes because the holidays will be here before I know it.

This past week I decided to test a few cookie recipes. Shortbread cookies always make the final list of treats that we make, and these peppermint snowball cookies are one of my all time favorite cookies for Christmas. They are always on the trays of cookies that we make and give away.  

[Read more...]

Apple Turkeys

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Cookies and sprinkles make these chocolate covered Apple Turkeys a fun Thanksgiving craft. Perfect no bake treat to keep the kids busy before dinner.

Chocolate Covered Apple Ring Turkeys - cookies and sprinkles turn these apples into the cutest turkey treat. Easy no bake recipe for kids to create on Thanksgiving day.

Thanksgiving Turkey Craft

Do you ever have those moments where you wake up from a dream and remember it vividly?  Usually, it's because of something scary happening, right? Well, about a month ago, I was halfway awake in the morning, but I decided to lie down for a few more minutes before working out.

The next thing I know, I sat up with a start. In my dream, I was photographing the cutest little turkeys made out of apples.  It was such a random and funny thing to be dreaming about.

My guess is that even after spending an entire week making these puff pastry apple tarts,  this caramel apple upside down cake, and these Halloween apple slices, I needed more apple fun in my life. 

[Read more...]

How to Make Easy Cauliflower Rice

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This Easy Cauliflower Rice is the perfect healthy substitute. It's so easy to make and tastes just like regular rice, but without all the carbs. You can use cauliflower rice as a side dish or even as an ingredient in your favorite recipes.

A red bowl on a wooden cutting board filled with homemade cauliflower rice.

This easy cauliflower rice recipe is the perfect low carb alternative to your favorite carb-heavy foods. It's easy to make and tastes delicious too.

You can use it as a base for fried rice, in place of potatoes, or even as a side dish with dinner. You won't believe how much this simple recipe will change the way you look at cauliflower.

Why Make Low Carb Rice

Whether you want to replace carbs with cauliflower rice or simply want to eat more vegetables, this cauliflower rice recipe will help you do it easily. 

Once I learned just how easy it was to make homemade cauliflower rice, we started incorporating it in our lean and green meals. And in quite a few dishes, you can't even tell the difference.

I made this healthy stuffed peppers recipe a few weeks ago, and our kids didn't even know that I substituted a batch of this easy cauliflower rice in place of the instant rice. I call that a dinner win.

Plus, cauliflower has lots of health benefits that will help you feel great while eating healthy delicious food.

[Read more...]

Chocolate Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Bars

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Four layers of creamy goodness make these Chocolate Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Bars a pretty and delicious dessert that everyone will love.

Chocolate Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Bars - four layers of chocolate and cookie goodness in every single bite. Great cheesecake recipe that everyone will love!

Well, I finally got to experience fall weather here in Florida.  Yesterday it dropped to a chilly 65 degrees. It was definitely time to bust out the jeans and sweatshirts from the storage boxes! The cooler weather was a very welcome change from the hot humidity.

I grew up in Pennsylvania, so I love fall weather the most. There's something about a slight chill in the air, changing leaves, the smell of a bonfire, and getting to wear layers that makes me smile.  I'm happy that we got to have two out of four on that list yesterday.

Today is bright and sunny, but the chilly weather persists.  Yay for flannel pants, sweatshirts, and a Salted Caramel Mocha Latte for another day.

When it gets cooler, I find myself heading to the kitchen more often to bake cookies or brownies. Lately, though, I have been finding myself wanting to bake all things cheesecake. I think it's because my cookbook Cheesecake Love finally came out after 2 years of work, and now I can share about it.   [Read more...]