Category: Baking

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KISS THE COOKIE! Peanut Butter Blossoms by Manjula Vijh

Traditionally called as “Peanut Butter Blossoms”, these are soft, chewy peanut butter cookies, rolled in sugar and then topped with a Hershey’s Kiss Chocolate!

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It was during one lazy winter afternoon, while I was surfing the internet for some cookie recipes, that I came across these beauties. I had never worked with peanut butter as the main ingredient for cookies, but these looked so beautiful that I couldn’t resist giving them a try.

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The recipe for these lovely looking cookies was first developed in 1957, by Mrs. Freda F. Smith of Gibsonburg, Ohio for the Ninth Grand National Pillsbury Bake-off competition. It’s an American classic recipe and many versions of this recipe are available online. My recipe is inspired from the one given on Hershey’s website, but since I am a vegetarian, I have modified the recipe to be an eggless one. These are chewy from the center and crisp from outside, and since these are topped with Hershey’s Kisses, I have named these cookies as, “Kiss the Cookie!”

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When I first tried this recipe with one of my friends, I made them with store bought peanut butter. They came out nice but were little extra sweet. This time I tried them with the Natural Homemade Peanut Butter curated by Mr. Mohit Arora, which is available at Masala Monk. The peanut butter by Masala Monk has the right amount of salt and sugar unlike store bought peanut butter. The cookies came out to be perfect sweet and soft! They look lovely when presented and you can also gift them to your loved ones during festival time!

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KISS THE COOKIE

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

Serves:  40-45 cookies

Ingredients

  • Condensed Milk: 1 Can (400 gm.)
  • Peanut Butter: ¾ cup
  • All Purpose Flour: 1.5 cup
  • Baking Powder: 1tsp.
  • Butter(softened): ½ cup
  • Vanilla extract: 1tsp
  • Caster sugar for rolling the cookies: ½ cup
  • Hershey’s kisses: 40-45

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl whisk together, flour and baking powder.
  2. In another bowl cream together, butter, peanut butter and vanilla to mix them well.
  3. Add the flour and make a dough. If, you are mixing with hands, and the dough sticks to your hand you can sprinkle some flour, apply butter to your hands and then again mix. You can taste the cookie dough too!! I did and it tastes great!
  4. Chill the dough to set. Cling wrap it and then keep it in the refrigerator for few hours.
  5. Preheat the oven at 190ºC.
  6. Shape dough into 1″-1.5″ balls, roll it in finely granulated caster sugar, and keep them into a baking tray.
  7. Bake the cookies at 190ºC for about 10-11 minutes, till cracks appear on sides. Do not over bake them. These cookies will not get brown in color.
  8. Meanwhile unwrap Hershey’s Kisses.
  9. After the cookies are baked, take out the baking tray, and gently press one kiss on each cookie. The warm cookies will melt the chocolate a little, but it will set after a while.
  10. Transfer the cookie onto a wire rack for cooling
  11. Store it in an airtight container.

Notes:

** Please check your oven temperature for baking.

** You can use a small ice-cream scoop, or a melon ball scoop to take out equally sized dough balls. I used one of my measuring spoons.

** You can keep the cookie dough cling wrapped for 2-3 days.

** If you want to cut down the recipe to half, you can do so. It works fine! I suggest to start with half the recipe if you are baking them for the first time.

** Use softened butter and not melted butter. I made this mistake and result was flat cookies.

** Chill the cookie dough before baking.

** If the chocolate falls of the cookie, you can dab little peanut butter on the bottom of the chocolate and press it back.

References:

http://www.post-gazette.com/life/food/2012/09/06/Cookies-Tracking-the-tale-of-a-favorite-the-Peanut-Blossom/stories/201209060264

https://abountifulkitchen.com/peanut-butter-blossoms/

http://americanheritagecooking.com/2014/12/peanut-butter-blossoms/

https://www.hersheys.com/kitchens/en_us/recipes/chewy-peanut-butter-blossoms.html

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Sweet Potatoes – Health, Nutrition and How to Use

Sweet potatoes, often overshadowed by their starchy counterparts, are finally having their moment in the nutritional spotlight. This vibrant root vegetable is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a cornucopia of health benefits, making it a must-have in your dietary arsenal. From their rich, earthy flavor to their impressive nutritional profile, sweet potatoes are the unsung heroes of the culinary world. Let’s dive deep into the world of sweet potatoes, exploring their health benefits, nutritional content, culinary versatility, and much more.

Sweet Potatoes: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins, minerals, fibers, and antioxidants. They are particularly rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, crucial for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function. But the goodness doesn’t stop there; these tubers are also loaded with vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, all while being low in calories. This makes them an excellent ally in combating oxidative stress, supporting heart health, and promoting digestive wellness.

Unleashing the Health Benefits

  1. Immunity Booster: The high vitamin A content in sweet potatoes strengthens the immune system, making it more efficient at warding off infections.
  2. Heart Health Hero: With a significant amount of potassium, sweet potatoes help in regulating blood pressure levels, thus reducing the risk of heart disease.
  3. Weight Loss Wonder: High in fiber and water content, sweet potatoes keep you fuller for longer, aiding in weight management and appetite control.
  4. Glycemic Guardian: Despite their sweetness, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index, making them a great choice for blood sugar regulation.
  5. Inflammation Inhibitor: The vibrant orange hue of sweet potatoes isn’t just for show; it’s a sign of the powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Culinary Creativity: Sweet Potatoes in the Kitchen

Sweet potatoes’ versatility makes them a star ingredient in any meal. From savory soups and salads to sweet desserts and smoothies, there’s no limit to how you can incorporate them into your diet. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

  • Morning Boost: Kickstart your day with a sweet potato breakfast hash, a perfect blend of savory flavors and nutritious goodness.
  • Lunch Delight: Toss roasted sweet potato cubes into your salads for a nutritious lunch that packs a punch.
  • Dinner Masterpiece: Sweet potato shepherd’s pie offers a comforting and healthy twist on a classic dish.
  • Snack Time: Sweet potato chips baked with a sprinkle of sea salt make for a crunchy, guilt-free snack.

Selecting, Storing, and Preparing

Choosing the perfect sweet potato is simple; look for smooth, firm skins and avoid any with soft spots or blemishes. Store them in a cool, dark place to preserve their freshness. When it comes to preparation, the possibilities are endless. Whether baked, boiled, steamed, or grilled, sweet potatoes retain their nutritional value and offer a delicious taste in every bite.

Sweet Potatoes in Folklore and Medicine

Sweet potatoes hold a place of honor in many cultures, not just as a food source but for their medicinal properties. They’ve been used to treat a variety of ailments, from inflammation to digestive issues, showcasing their importance in holistic health practices.

The Sweet Potato Challenge

In a world where diet trends come and go, the sweet potato stands the test of time. We challenge you to incorporate sweet potatoes into your meals for one week. Observe the changes in your health, energy levels, and overall well-being. We bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

Sweet potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a nutritional goldmine waiting to be explored. By incorporating these vibrant tubers into your diet, you’re not just enhancing your meals; you’re boosting your health, one delicious bite at a time. Embrace the sweetness and versatility of sweet potatoes and let them transform your culinary adventures and wellness journey.

Blog Tags: Sweet Potatoes, Superfood, Nutritional Benefits, Culinary Uses, Immune Boosting, Heart Health, Weight Loss, Blood Sugar Control, Anti-inflammatory, Healthy Recipes

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Cheese and Chive Scones Recipe

woman in apron preparing food against light background

Welcome back, baking enthusiasts! Today, we’re exploring a bit off the beaten path, leaving behind the realm of sweet and venturing into the savory with an enticing twist on a classic English recipe: Cheese and Chive Scones. These scones are the perfect addition to a hearty breakfast, an ideal snack for a quick pick-me-up, or a tasty accompaniment to your favorite soup or salad. They’re also the perfect solution for those with a less sweet tooth but who still crave a satisfying treat with their afternoon tea.

What Makes Cheese and Chive Scones Special?

Unlike traditional scones, which are often sweet and served with clotted cream and jam, these savory scones are studded with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives. This combination offers an irresistible balance, with the rich, tangy cheese complementing the mild, onion-like taste of chives.

Cheese and Chive Scones are not just delectable, but also surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and a little time. They’re fantastic served warm, straight from the oven, but they cool well for later enjoyment too.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. If you’re feeling adventurous or want a different flavor profile, the recipe is flexible. Add some cooked, crumbled bacon for Bacon Cheddar Chive Scones or swap the chives for chopped scallions for Cheddar Scallion Scones. The possibilities are endless!

Let’s Get Baking!

Without further ado, let’s get started on our Cheese and Chive Scones!

Ingredients

  • 3 cups (375g) self-rising flour
  • 1 cup (225g) cold butter, cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup (115g) cheddar cheese, grated
  • 3 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk
  • 1 egg, for egg wash

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 220C/200C Fan/Gas 7 (425F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour and cold butter. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
  3. Add the Flavor: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and chopped fresh chives.
  4. Form the Dough: Gradually add the milk, stirring with a fork until a dough starts to form. You might not need all the milk, so add it slowly to avoid making the dough too wet.
  5. Knead and Cut: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it gently just a few times to bring it together. Roll out the dough to about 2cm thick and use a round cutter to cut out the scones. Arrange the scones on your prepared baking sheet.
  6. Final Touches: Beat the egg and use it to brush the tops of the scones. This will give them a beautiful, golden color as they bake.
  7. Bake: Bake the scones in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and well risen.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the scones to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

And there you have it, homemade Cheese and Chive Scones! A delicious alternative to sweet scone recipes. Whether you serve them for breakfast or enjoy them as a snack, they’re sure to be a hit!

Share your baking adventures with us using the hashtags #CheeseChiveScones, #Baking, #EnglishScones, and #HomemadeScones. We can’t wait to see your creations!

Stay tuned for more delectable recipes, and happy baking!

Blog Tags: Cheese and Chive Scones, Baking, English Scones, Homemade Scones, Savory Scones, Cheddar Cheese, Chives, Quick and Easy Recipes, Breakfast Ideas, Snack Recipes, Versatile Baking, Cheddar and Chive Scones, Cheddar Scallion Scones, Bacon Cheddar Chive Scones

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Breville Smart Oven Air: The Best of Both Worlds

kitchen room with white wall

Hello, everyone! Today, we’re diving into the world of kitchen appliances, specifically the Breville Smart Oven Air. This is not just a toaster oven, but also an air fryer, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen. We found this information in a video by America’s Test Kitchen on YouTube. You can watch the full video here.🍞🍗

The Breville Smart Oven Air 🍳

The Breville Smart Oven Air is a toaster oven that integrates air fryer technology. It’s essentially a convection toaster oven that comes with an air fryer basket. The term “air frying” is a bit of a marketing term, but these appliances do turn out delicious, crispy food.

The Breville Smart Oven Air is the winner in America’s Test Kitchen’s testing. It’s a great toaster oven that can fit whole artisanal slices of bread, broil, and act as a second, smaller oven. In addition to air frying, it makes a great addition to your kitchen if you’re looking for a toaster oven. However, it’s larger and more expensive than a traditional air fryer.

Features and Performance 🌟

What sets the Breville Smart Oven Air apart is its digital interface, which is easy to navigate and clear to use. It also has multiple racks, allowing for multiple layers of cooking at once, which can be a very efficient usage of space.

In testing, the Breville Smart Oven Air performed well as a toaster oven. It toasted evenly and was able to accommodate larger, artisanal slices of bread. It also excelled in air frying, producing crispy chicken wings.

One downside of this machine is the cleaning process. The air fryer basket is stainless steel and not coated in non-stick material, making it harder to clean compared to traditional air fryers.

Conclusion 🏆

If you’re looking for a combination of an air fryer and a toaster oven, the Breville Smart Oven Air is a fantastic choice. It combines both functions spectacularly, though it is larger and more expensive. If you’re mostly interested in air frying, a traditional air fryer might be a better, more compact, and less expensive choice.

Support America’s Test Kitchen 🙌

If you enjoyed this review and want to support America’s Test Kitchen in creating more content, you can subscribe to their YouTube channel and like their videos.

Join Our Community! 🎉

If you’re interested in exploring more about kitchen appliances, cooking tips, and recipes, join our Facebook community at Eatlo.

Stay tuned for more posts about kitchen gadgets, cooking tips, and delicious recipes! 🍽️👩‍🍳👨‍🍳

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Vegan Dole Whip: 5 Simple Plant-Based Dole Whip Ideas You can try at Home

woman in apron preparing food against light background

When it comes to frozen treats, few can match the popularity and refreshing taste of Dole Whip. Known for its creamy texture and tropical flavors, Dole Whip has become a beloved treat among Disney enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike. But did you know that you can enjoy this delicious delicacy while adhering to a vegan lifestyle? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the enticing world of vegan Dole Whip, revealing how you can create this delectable treat without compromising your dietary choices.

Unleashing the Power of Plant-Based Goodness

Vegan Dole Whip is a guilt-free indulgence that replaces traditional dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives. By harnessing the power of natural ingredients, this delightful frozen dessert offers the same luscious texture and tantalizing flavors, all while being completely free from animal-based products.

Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen

To create vegan Dole Whip, you’ll need a handful of plant-based ingredients that work in harmony to replicate the original recipe. The key players usually include frozen pineapple chunks, creamy coconut milk or coconut cream, natural sweeteners like agave syrup or maple syrup, and a hint of lemon or lime juice for that perfect tangy kick.

Blending Your Way to Vegan Bliss

Crafting your own vegan Dole Whip at home is a breeze. Simply blend together the frozen pineapple, coconut milk or cream, sweetener of your choice, and a squeeze of lemon or lime juice until the mixture achieves a smooth and creamy consistency. Adjust the texture by adding more liquid if needed, ensuring a velvety finish that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

A World of Serving Possibilities

Vegan Dole Whip is a versatile dessert that can be savored in numerous ways. Enjoy it as a classic soft-serve treat, served in a cup or cone for that authentic experience. For an extra dose of tropical bliss, transform your Dole Whip into a float by adding a splash of pineapple juice. Get creative with garnishes by adding fresh fruits, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce to take your creation to the next level of yumminess.

Where to Find Vegan Dole Whip

While vegan Dole Whip may not be as readily available as its traditional counterpart, you can still find this plant-based delight at select vegan-friendly restaurants, ice cream shops, or specialty dessert places. Be sure to check with local establishments or search online for locations that offer vegan Dole Whip near you. Alternatively, unleash your culinary skills and create your own vegan masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Conclusion

Vegan Dole Whip opens up a world of possibilities for those who embrace a plant-based lifestyle without compromising on taste and enjoyment. With its creamy texture, tantalizing flavors, and the ability to customize it to your preferences, this frozen treat is sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you cool on hot summer days. So, go ahead and embark on a delightful journey into the world of vegan Dole Whip, where every spoonful is a taste of paradise.

5 Vegan and Plant-Based Dole Whip Ideas

Making your own vegan Dole Whip at home allows you to customize the flavors and ensure all ingredients align with your dietary preferences. If you’re looking to try some delicious plant-based Dole Whip creations at home, here are five simple and tasty ideas to get you started:

Classic Pineapple Dole Whip:

The classic pineapple Dole Whip is a beloved favorite known for its tropical flavor. By blending frozen pineapple chunks, creamy coconut milk or rich coconut cream, a touch of tangy lime juice, and a drizzle of sweetener like agave syrup, you can recreate this iconic treat in the comfort of your own kitchen. The frozen pineapple gives the Dole Whip its refreshing taste, while the luscious coconut milk or cream provides a creamy and indulgent texture that melts in your mouth. Adjust the sweetness and consistency to your liking, and you’ll have a delightful bowl or cone of classic pineapple Dole Whip ready to enjoy. Feel free to garnish with a pineapple wedge or a sprinkle of shredded coconut for an extra tropical touch.

Mango Tango Dole Whip:

For a fruity twist that will transport you to a sun-kissed paradise, try making a Mango Tango Dole Whip. Begin by blending frozen mango chunks, velvety coconut milk or coconut cream, a drizzle of agave syrup or your preferred sweetener, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to add a tangy kick. The result is a creamy and tropical mango-flavored Dole Whip that’s perfect for mango lovers. The vibrant orange color of the mango Dole Whip is visually enticing, while the natural sweetness and tanginess of the mangoes create a symphony of flavors on your palate. Each spoonful offers a delightful balance of tropical fruitiness and smooth creaminess, making it a true delight to savor.

Strawberry Delight Dole Whip:

Indulge in the fresh and sweet flavors of a Strawberry Delight Dole Whip. Begin by blending frozen strawberries, luxurious coconut milk or cream, a touch of agave syrup or another natural sweetener, and a hint of lemon juice to enhance the natural strawberry taste. The result is a refreshing and light treat that captures the essence of ripe, juicy strawberries. The vibrant pink color of the strawberry Dole Whip is visually appealing and inviting. As you take your first spoonful, you’ll be greeted with a burst of sweet strawberry flavor and a velvety smooth texture. The natural sweetness of the strawberries, combined with the richness of the coconut milk or cream, creates a perfectly balanced and delightful dessert experience.

Tropical Twist Dole Whip Float:

Take your Dole Whip experience to the next level by turning it into a float that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise. Begin by preparing your preferred plant-based Dole Whip flavor (pineapple or mango work great) using the recipes above. Once you have your creamy and luscious Dole Whip ready, scoop it into a tall glass or bowl. Then, pour a splash of refreshing pineapple juice or any other fruit juice of your choice over the Dole Whip, allowing the flavors to mingle and create a delightful fusion of creamy and tangy notes. The combination of the creamy Dole Whip and the tangy fruit juice creates a refreshing and indulgent treat that is perfect for those warm summer days or any time you’re in need of a tropical escape. For an added touch, garnish with a pineapple slice or other fresh fruit of your liking. Grab a straw, sit back, and sip on this tropical twist on a classic float.

Chocolate Indulgence Dole Whip:

If you’re a chocolate lover, this one’s for you. Create a Chocolate Indulgence Dole Whip that combines the richness of chocolate with the creamy goodness of Dole Whip. Begin by blending frozen banana slices, cocoa powder, creamy coconut milk or coconut cream, and a drizzle of your preferred sweetener like agave syrup. The frozen bananas serve as a creamy base, while the cocoa powder adds a deep and indulgent chocolate flavor. The result is a velvety smooth and decadent chocolate Dole Whip that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Each spoonful offers a luxurious chocolate experience, rich in flavor and delightfully creamy in texture. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding toppings like vegan chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This Chocolate Indulgence Dole Whip is a treat that chocolate enthusiasts will truly savor.

Feel free to experiment and get creative with these recipes. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweetener, and the consistency by varying the amount of coconut milk or cream. Additionally, consider adding toppings like shredded coconut, fresh fruit slices, a drizzle of vegan chocolate sauce, or even a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added texture and flavor. These plant-based Dole Whip ideas are a fantastic way to enjoy a homemade frozen treat that’s both delicious and vegan-friendly. So grab your blender, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to create these delightful and refreshing plant-based Dole Whip creations.