Desserts Archives - Page 2 of 7

Homemade Whipped Cream

March 6, 2018 by Larisha Campbell 3 Comments

Move over Cool Whip. Learn how to make homemade whipped cream. This healthy alternative to the tub you are used to buying. You only need 3 ingredients for this tasty treat!

Growing up Cool Whip was one of my absolute most favorite things. From the tub or can, I could literally shovel it in my mouth. I would always drive my mom crazy because I would try to sneak spoonfuls out of the tub and she needed the whole container for whatever dessert she was making. When our daughter was born though, we started watching what we were eating and I realized that I could be making my own homemade cool whip from scratch. Not only was it healthier, but it actually tastes better, too. Say WHAT!?

Is there a difference between cool whip and whipped cream?

Cool Whip is an artificial alternative for making whipped cream. Whipped cream is the process of whisking or beating heavy cream until light and fluffy and sweetened with vanilla and sugar.

Some may ask, “why not just buy Cool Whip (or ReddiWhip can)?” That’s because the ingredients in Cool Whip tub contains the following: water, hydrogenated vegetable oil (coconut & palm kernel oils), high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, skim milk, contains less than 2% of light cream, sodium caseinate, natural and artificial flavor, xanthan and guar gums, polysorbate 60, sorbitan monostearate, sodium polyphosphate, beta carotene (color). That’s more than 15 different ingredients! Half of which I have no clue what they are or how to even correctly pronounce them. Why would you ever want to put that into your body?

Alternatively, the ingredients in homemade whipped cream are: heavy cream, vanilla, and sugar. That’s it.

How do you make whipped cream?

A homemade whipped cream recipe consists of whisking vigorously with a whisk or beating with a mixer heavy cream until light and fluffy clouds begin to form. Halfway through you add vanilla extract and white sugar. The end result tastes better than any store bought tub or can can compare. You do have to be careful that you don’t whisk or beat too long or you will end up making homemade butter.

Can I Make Homemade Whipped Cream In Advance?

Absolutely! You can make homemade whipped cream up to 3 days in advance. Once it’s made, store in an air-tight container in your fridge until you are ready to use it. Once ready, there may be some liquid at the bottom of your container. Simply, whisk or beat the homemade whipped cream together again until reconstituted.

0 from 0 votes

Homemade Whipped Topping

Prep Time

10 mins

Total Time

10 mins

Move over Cool Whip. This homemade whipped toppings is a healthy alternative to the tub you are used to buying. You only need 3 ingredients for this tasty treat!

Course: Condiments

Cuisine: American

Servings: 2 cups

Calories: 219 kcal

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

1 cup Heavy Cream
1 tablespoon Sugar
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Instructions

In a chilled bowl of a stand mixer, add the heavy cream and begin to beat on medium speed.
Slowly add in the organic sugar and pure vanilla extract.
Continue to beat until stiff peaks begin to form. [This typically happens between 6-10 minutes, depending on your exact speed and the type of mixer you are using.]
Use immediately or place in refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Recipe Notes

Cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl work best and fastest for this recipe, but if you are in a pinch it will still turn out great if the bowl isn't chilled (the cream needs to be cold though)
Stop once you have stiff peaks. Over beating heavy cream will cause it to separate and form buttermilk and butter if beaten too long.
You don't have to have a stand mixer, it's just what I have that works best. A regular mixer, or even just a bowl and a whisk will work great.

Nutrition Facts

Homemade Whipped Topping

Amount Per Serving (0.5 cup)

Calories 219 Calories from Fat 198

% Daily Value*

Fat 22g34%

Saturated Fat 13g81%

Cholesterol 81mg27%

Sodium 22mg1%

Potassium 44mg1%

Carbohydrates 4g1%

Sugar 3g3%

Protein 1g2%

Vitamin A 875IU18%

Vitamin C 0.3mg0%

Calcium 39mg4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Pin this Homemade Whipped Topping Recipe to Pinterest and save for later!

This post was originally posted on 6/17/2014. Same great recipe, but our photography has greatly improved.

This post is part of a mom series we did called Time for Mom. Check out some other fun family-friendly posts from some of our friends! Rachel at My Mini Adventurer and Brie at A Breezy Life

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream Recipe

February 26, 2018 by Larisha Campbell 3 Comments

This easy Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream is nicecream at the next level. Learn how to make decadently rich banana ice cream with just 3 ingredients!

If you found this recipe looking for a lactation smoothie, we’re sorry. You can find the lactation smoothie here. (We are aware of the issue, just waiting for a fix soon).

A few weeks back we made a Caramel Banana Ice Cream. It was heaven. H-E-A-V-E-N!

Problem – Ice cream actually takes a pretty long time to make.

While I prefer making as much as I can from scratch so I can control our ingredients, I really don’t like things that take a lot of time. I mean, really, do any of us? There’s the whole instant gratification part of us, but also there’s the whole, I have a bajillion other things to be doing. Waiting almost 24 hours for ice cream, isn’t really what I want to be doing. And lastly, trying to explain to a toddler that we are making ice cream but it won’t be ready until tomorrow, is just setting yourself up for a huge meltdown. And ain’t nobody got time for that.

I need something for those hot summer days that we come inside and can instantly have something within a few minutes to cool us off. While we typically have ice pops on hand, sometimes we forget to make more before we run out. I mean I am human! HAHA.

What is Nicecream?

Nicecream is vegan ice cream made by blending up frozen bananas. Once you have the banana base, you can work on adding in toppings, sauces, and other ingredients to spin it into your favorite ice cream made from bananas.

Our favorite banana nice cream recipe is split between the one you are reading here and our Banana Swirl nice cream with strawberry sauce swirled into the nice cream recipe. Both of these healthy ice cream recipes are sure to please anyone!

What’s the best Nice Cream Recipe?

We almost always have frozen bananas in the freezer so it’s a quick and easy one to throw together. You can flavor the bananas with almost anything or just eat the whipped bananas by themselves. Chocolate and Peanut Butter together are the perfect combination so we are big fans in thinking this Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream recipe is the best nice cream recipe around .

Throw the three ingredients into a blender (we use this Ninja Kitchen Professional system) and bam, instant ice cream in under 5 minutes. You can serve right away or throw in the freezer for later if you want. Both our girls loved this recipe and so did Andrew and I. We hope you enjoy it too!

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream

5 from 2 votes

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream

Prep Time

20 mins

Cook Time

5 mins

Total Time

25 mins

THIS EASY CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER BANANA ICE CREAM IS NICECREAM AT THE NEXT LEVEL. LEARN HOW TO MAKE DECADENTLY RICH BANANA ICE CREAM WITH JUST 3 INGREDIENTS!

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 4

Calories: 158 kcal

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

4 Frozen Bananas
2 tbsp Creamy Peanut Butter
2 tbsp 100% Cacao Powder

Instructions

Set Bananas out for 15 minutes to slightly thaw.
Add ingredients to high powdered blender or food processor and blend for 5 minutes, scraping down as needed, until a thick, creamy consistency is achieved.
Serve immediately or store in air tight container in freezer.

Recipe Notes

If you are having trouble blending completely, you can wait a few minutes for bananas to thaw a bit more or add a splash of milk (dairy or dairy free) until it will blend well.

Nutrition Facts

Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream

Amount Per Serving (1 g)

Calories 158 Calories from Fat 36

% Daily Value*

Fat 4g6%

Saturated Fat 1g6%

Sodium 38mg2%

Potassium 515mg15%

Carbohydrates 30g10%

Fiber 4g17%

Sugar 15g17%

Protein 3g6%

Vitamin A 75IU2%

Vitamin C 10.2mg12%

Calcium 13mg1%

Iron 0.8mg4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Pin this Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Nicecream Recipe for later!

This post was originally posted on 6/20/2016. Same great recipe, but our photography has greatly improved.

This post is part of a kids cooking series we did called Mini Chef Mondays– a series of posts that kids can make primarily on their own. Check out some other fun kid-friendly recipes from some of our friends!

Sundae Fundays Mini Chef Mondays // Courtney’s Sweets
6 Reasons to Take Your Kids to a Pick Your Own Farm // Momma Lew
Patriotic Potato Chip Candy // Finding Zest
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream Recipe // We’re Parents
The Best Finger Foods For Baby // Eating Richly Even When You’re Broke
Cooking with Kids: 5 Must Make Summer Treats // Giggles, Gobbles and Gulps
Vegetarian Crockpot Baked Beans // Vegging at the Shore
Real Fruit Healthy Slushies // O’Boy! Organic
Homemade Tuscan Style Pizza // My Mini Adventurer

Dairy Free Homemade Doughnut Recipe

February 19, 2018 by Larisha Campbell 7 Comments

This easy doughnut recipe is a crowd pleaser! Try to make these dairy free homemade doughnuts each of the four ways, but ultimately the possibility are endless! You’ll never know these are a great dairy free breakfast option!

If you know me, even in the slightest little bit, you know that I am one doughnut-obsessed loving person. While I’ve always been in love with them, I can’t really say my true doughnut obsession started until I bit down in a local bakery’s ultra-creme-filled version and then again with local Amish doughnuts. Quite honestly, there’s nothing like an Amish doughnut and if you’ve never had one, make it a bucket list goal.

Since then, there’s been no looking back. The way to my heart is officially through doughnuts. I didn’t learn about either of these options until after I had our oldest. When I was pregnant with our baby, I remembered that I had to be dairy free from 6 months with our oldest because she was essentially lactose intolerant. I wanted a doughnut recipe option when I had the baby in case they same happened (it did). Thus, this dairy free donuts recipe love child was created.

How do you make doughnuts at home?

The best dough for homemade doughnuts recipe is a yeast dough. Once you have that you knead the dough and let rise twice. After that, you want to roll out and cut your dough. Finally, you fry the dough for 2 minutes on each side. The most amazing thing about doughnut recipes is that once you have the dough fried, your possibilities on the toppings for donuts are endless. Sprinkles, glaze, chocolate sauce, cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, and more.

How do you make dairy free doughnuts?

In most homemade doughnuts recipe, milk and butter are used in the recipe. Obviously, dairy is a large allergy for money, so we wanted to make a dairy free doughnut recipe. It was incredibly easy to swap out dairy in the doughnut recipe. You can swap coconut, almond, or soy milk for the regular milk in this donut recipe. For the butter, we swapped with coconut butter. The end result was delicious.

Our older daughter, took a bite into one and said, “Mmm, it’s Schurmmy”. That’s her saying “It’s so yummy.” So that’s a win/win in my book. We will definitely be making these doughnuts again and again.

If you’ve been contemplating making your own, we highly suggest you get too it now! I couldn’t believe it’s taken me this long!

How to Make Dairy Free Homemade Donuts

4.5 from 2 votes

Dairy Free Homemade Doughnut Recipe

Prep Time

2 hrs 45 mins

Cook Time

20 mins

Total Time

3 hrs 5 mins

This easy doughnut recipe is a crowd pleaser! Try to make these dairy free homemade doughnuts each of the four ways, but ultimately the possibility are endless! You'll never know these are a great dairy free breakfast option!

Course: Breakfast, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 36 doughnuts

Calories: 126 kcal

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups dairy-free milk alternative coconut, almond, or soy milk, scalded
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup coconut butter
1 1/2 cup warm water
4 1/2 tsp active-dry yeast
3 eggs beaten
7 1/2 cups bread flour
Optional: powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, dairy free glaze, jelly, etc
Vegetable Oil for frying

Instructions

To your scalded milk, add sugar, salt, and coconut butter. Stir until butter is melted.
Set aside and let cool for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, in a small bowl, add warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, add the eggs and 1/4 of the flour and slightly combine.
Add in the milk mixture and another 1/4 of the flour. Combine again.
Add in the yeast mixture and another 1/4 of the flour. Combine again.
Add remaining flour and combine lightly.
Transfer dough mixture to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.
Place dough in a bowl and cover with a large kitchen cloth.
Let dough rise for one hour.
Remove and knead for another 3 minutes.
Place back in bowl and let rise for another hour.
Punch down and roll to 1/2 inch and cut. (See Notes if you don't have a doughnut cutter)
Let rise for 20 minutes.
While waiting, bring your oil to 300 degrees.
Once your oil has reached 300 degrees, Cook your doughnuts on each side for 2 minutes.
Remove onto a paper towel lined plate to absorb excess grease.
Let cool enough to touch, then add powdered sugar or glaze on top!

For homemade dairy free glaze:

Whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp dairy-free milk alternative of choice, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.

Recipe Notes

Nutritional facts calculated using almond milk. Optional toppings and fillings not calculated in nutritional facts.
If you do not have a doughnut cutter, you can use a 3" biscuit cutter and then the large end of a pastry tip to cut out the hole.
For Doughnut Holes Using a small ice cream/cookie scoop, remove a tablespoon of dough at a time. Cook for 30 seconds on each side, then remove to paper towel lined sheet.
For Filled Doughnuts Do not cut center out of dough. Use a biscuit cutter. Cook as normally described above. Once removed pipe choice of ingredient into center.

Nutrition Facts

Dairy Free Homemade Doughnut Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 doughnut)

Calories 126 Calories from Fat 18

% Daily Value*

Fat 2g3%

Cholesterol 13mg4%

Sodium 53mg2%

Potassium 35mg1%

Carbohydrates 22g7%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 3g3%

Protein 3g6%

Vitamin A 20IU0%

Vitamin C 0.1mg0%

Calcium 19mg2%

Iron 0.4mg2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Pin this Dairy Free Homemade Doughnut Recipe today!

This post was originally published on 4/17/2015. Pictures below are the originals.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples

February 12, 2018 by Larisha Campbell 2 Comments

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples are the perfect dessert! Whether you need a fun dessert after dinner or a more intimate dessert, they meet all expectations.

Baked Apples are such a fun dessert. It’s the perfect amount of heightened sweetness from the caramelizing that happens during the baking process. To make it even more fun and kid-friendly, we combined cheesecake filling, a caramel apple sauce, and crumb topping to make the most indulgently delicious, Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples. Let me say that again in case you didn’t have a chance to really comprehend.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples

They are really as amazing at they sound too. Listen, if you know our family, you know that Andrew is really picky. While he loves apples, he’s not a fan at all of cooked fruit. Yall…he loveeedddd this. Better yet though, the kids loved it. We used pink lady apples for this recipe because they are crisp and sweet. However, feel free to use the variety of apples that you love the most.

How long does it take to bake an apple in the oven?

Typically, the average sized apple may need 30-40 minutes to bake apples in the oven. If you use smaller apples they can be ready 20-25 minutes. Obviously, if you use very large apples, you are going to need to let them cook longer. You want the outside of the apples to start to wilt and focus on the topping getting golden brown.

How do you make Healthy Baked Apples?

If you are looking for a healthier alternative to this recipe for your littles, you can simply cook the cored apple pieces with some coconut oil, apple pie spice, and chopped nuts of your choice and then fill the apples. Bake the same amount of time.

0 from 0 votes

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples

Prep Time

20 mins

Cook Time

30 mins

Total Time

50 mins

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples are the perfect dessert! Whether you need a fun dessert after dinner or a more intimate dessert, they meet all expectations.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: dessert

Servings: 6 apples

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

6 sweet apples (we like pink lady)
lemon juice
1/2 cup flour
1 stick unsalted butter, softened and divided
1/8 cup brown sugar, packed
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 tsp vanilla
Caramel Apple Sauce

Instructions

In a small bowl, using a pastry knife (or your hands), combine flour, 1/2 stick butter, and brown sugar.
Work mixture until course crumbles are formed. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, Beat together remaining butter, cream cheese, and vanilla.
Carefully scoop out the insides to the apple, not going too close to the bottom. Remove any seeds.
Brush insides of apple with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Make Caramel Apple Sauce according to instructions and also adding in the insides of the apples. Proceed making recipe as normal.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Inside the apples, add a small scoop of cheesecake mixture.
Then, layer, a small scoop of caramel apple sauce, another small scoop of cheesecake mixture. And then top with scoop of streusel topping.
Place apple in a large muffin tin so apples don't roll around.
Repeat with remaining apples.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until apples appear to be slightly wilted.
Serve alongside remaining caramel apple sauce.

Pin these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples for later:

Double Chocolate Cake Cookies

February 11, 2018 by Larisha Campbell Leave a Comment

Craving both cake and cookies, but don’t want to compromise? These Double Chocolate Cake Cookies are the perfect combination to satisfy both cravings.

For years, I wasn’t a huge chocolate fan. It’s true. I would eat brownies, but chocolate chip cookies or chocolate cake, it wasn’t for me. When Andrew and I got together, he desperately tried to change my mind. See, he lovesssss chocolate. If he’s in a bad mood, chocolate can usually fix that. I love putting a piece of chocolate in his lunch box when I know he’s having a rough start to the day. It’s the little things that really matter.

Thankfully, his love of chocolate taught me to appreciate it more. Now, I still don’t have a love obsession with chocolate cake, but cookies, brownies, and other desserts, I’m all in for all the chocolate.

Every Saturday, we make a different cookie for our in-home date night. It’s something we’ve done for a little over a year now and it’s something we both look forward to at the end of every week. One night, Andrew was in charge of the recipe and he said he was making chocolate cake cookies. I was so upset.

I didn’t like chocolate cake and I wasn’t going to like these cookies. BIG MISTAKE. They were amazingggggg. One of the best cookies that I’ve ever had.

Not only did I love them, but the girls devoured them and then asked for more.

The baby even tried to help herself after we turned our back. They are definitely a hit in the house and since the first time, we’ve made them again and again and again.

The kids always try to “help” me lick the batters after the mixture is done while we are waiting for the cookies to finish up and it always get a bit interesting.

How do you make cake cookies without boxed cake mix?

Cake cookies made with a combination of regular white and cake flour is the key to successful cake cookies that taste like the dream you have of cake and cookie all in one. Plus the addition of arrowroot powder acts to thicken the cookie to give it that cake feeling.

Grab the Double Chocolate Cake Cookies Recipe:

0 from 0 votes

Double Chocolate Cake Cookies

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

10 mins

Total Time

20 mins

Craving both cake and cookies, but don't want to compromise? These Double Chocolate Cake Cookies are the perfect combination to satisfy both cravings.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 12 cookies

Calories: 465 kcal

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

½ cup unsweetened dark cocoa powder
1 cup cake flour
1½ cup flour
1 teaspoon arrowroot powder cornstarch could be used as a substitute
¾ teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks, cold, cut into pats
1 cup brown sugar packed
½ cup white sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips milk chocolate used in these photos; however, we've done white, semi-sweet, peanut butter chips, or a combination of a variety of these as well.

Instructions

Preheat oven on 410 degrees F.
In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, both flours, arrowroot powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars.
Beat in eggs 1 at a time just until mixed in.
Add vanilla and mix just until blended.
Add all dry ingredient mixture and stop as soon as it's combined.
Fold in chocolate chips.
Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll mixture into 12 large balls.
Cook for 8-12 minutes or until set.
Remove and let cool for 5 minutes.
Serve immediately or store in an air-tight container for up to 7 days.

Recipe Notes

**Nutritional facts are just estimates. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates.

Nutrition Facts

Double Chocolate Cake Cookies

Amount Per Serving (1 cookie)

Calories 465 Calories from Fat 198

% Daily Value*

Fat 22g34%

Saturated Fat 13g81%

Cholesterol 71mg24%

Sodium 151mg7%

Potassium 120mg3%

Carbohydrates 63g21%

Fiber 2g8%

Sugar 40g44%

Protein 5g10%

Vitamin A 565IU11%

Vitamin C 0.2mg0%

Calcium 58mg6%

Iron 1.9mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

February 9, 2018 by Larisha Campbell 2 Comments

These Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars are a hit all year round combining two amazing desserts: Cheesecake and Snickerdoodle Cookies.

No matter the time of year, there’s 3 things you can always give me that will instantly cheer me up. Doughnuts, Cheesecake, and Snickerdoodle cookies. Doughnuts are just a love obsession of mine. But cheesecake is like the literal perfect dessert and nothing beats a snickerdoodle cookie. So why not combine them. Well, for now, at least two of them. Though snickerdoodle cheesecake doughnuts sound ahhh-mazing.

I present to you Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars!

In case you don’t know, let’s first talk about snickerdoodle cookies.

What is Snickerdoodle flavor?

Snickerdoodles and sugar cookies sometimes get mistaken for no difference. Though I’m not really sure how. Snickerdoodles are rolled in a cinnamon and sugar mixture before being baked. Additionally, cream of tartar is added to the dough mixture. Cream of tartar added a tartness to the cookies that isn’t provided in a sugar cookie, as well as aiding to the chewiness of the cookies.

These Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars aim to combine the best of both worlds. The base layer is made of a snickerdoodle dough mixture. Then, topped with cinnamon and sugar mix. Next, A layer of cheesecake that is rich and creamy. Finally, the mixture is topped with more snickerdoodle mixture, plus more cinnamon and sugar mix, PLUS a crumbly streusel topping.

It’s indulgent. But it’s amazing. Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars are absolutely delicious and a real crowd pleaser. You can easily cut these up into multiple sizes so you can make them as big or little as you want to feed a crowd.

I’ve kept you waiting long enough so let’s get too it. Without further ado, I present to you incredible, delectable, outstanding Snickerdoodle Cheesecake bar amazingness right here:

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Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

Prep Time

25 mins

Cook Time

2 hrs 30 mins

Total Time

2 hrs 55 mins

These Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars are a hit all year round combining two amazing desserts: Cheesecake and Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 15

Calories: 425 kcal

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

For the crumb topping

1 cup flour
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 sticks unsalted butter cold, cut into pieces

For the Snickerdoodle Crust

1/4 cup sugar
2 1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tsp cream of tartar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 1/2 sticks butter unsalted, melted
3/4 cup light brown sugar packed
3/4 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cheesecake Filling

2 8 ounce packages cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
lemon zest from 1 lemon

Instructions

For the crumb topping

Combine all ingredients into a medium sized bowl.
Using your hands or a pastry cutter, blend all ingredients until well combined and crumbly.

For the Snickerdoodle Crust

In a large bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and cream of tartar. Set aside.
In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup sugar and 2 1/2 tsp cinnamon. Set aside.
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Grease the parchment paper with coconut oil.
In a medium bowl add the butter and 3/4 cup white and 3/4 cup brown sugars.
Beat until creamy and well combined.
Add eggs one at a time, and mix just until combined.
Add in vanilla and mix just until combined.
Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture; beat until combined.
Reserve 1 cup of dough.
Press remaining dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Sprinkle top with half of the cinnamon sugar mixture from the first step.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

In a large mixing bowl add the cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar. Mix well.
Beat in eggs, vanilla, and lemon zest until combined.
Pour over crust.
Drop spoonfuls of reserved snickerdoodle dough mixture on top of cheesecake mixture.
Sprinkle evenly the crumb topping over the top.
Sprinkle top with remaining cinnamon sugar mixture.
Bake 30-35 minutes or until center is just set.
Remove and let cool completely.
Refrigerate until cold, then lift out of the pan and cut into bars.
Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator up to 7 days.

Recipe Notes

**Nutritional facts are just estimates. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates.

Nutrition Facts

Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars

Amount Per Serving (1 bar)

Calories 425 Calories from Fat 162

% Daily Value*

Fat 18g28%

Saturated Fat 10g63%

Cholesterol 93mg31%

Sodium 202mg9%

Potassium 151mg4%

Carbohydrates 60g20%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 36g40%

Protein 6g12%

Vitamin A 660IU13%

Vitamin C 0.5mg1%

Calcium 69mg7%

Iron 1.9mg11%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

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Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons

February 7, 2018 by Larisha Campbell Leave a Comment

These Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons are the perfect bite-sized sweet and tart treat for any occasion. Combining homemade lemon raspberry curd with chocolate whipped cream, these are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

I have a confession. Before last year, I’d never used puff pastry dough for anything.
Shocking right?
But it’s true.

Now, I’ve had puff pastry before, but never using it myself to make dishes. Last year, Andrew signed me up for some cooking classes (my request, not his) at Williams Sonoma. I was super excited to take them and learn some new recipes and techniques along the way. During one of the classes, I walked in and was told we’d be making a cheese and veggie tart. I was a little confused. Weren’t puff pastries for dessert?

Turns out, they aren’t. Since it’s a basic dough that just puffs up, puff pastry can be used in a variety of ways. It lead to my inspirations for our Chicken and Goat Cheese Tart…which is a must try, I might add. After making that, I’d been obsessed over using puff pastry. And it’s finally time to combine some of my favorite things together to bring you one amazing dessert.

Homemade Lemon Raspberry Curd.
Homemade Chocolate Whipped Cream.
Puff Pastry.
Mini Bite Desserts.

Insert: Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons

What is a napoleon dessert?

First, you need to know what a napoleon dessert is, right? A napoleon is a 3 tiered French dessert, sometimes also called a mille-feuille. When traditionally made, it has three layers of puff pastry, two layers of pastry cream, and then topped with powdered sugar.

Alternatives to the traditional napoleon dessert can substitute the pastry cream for whipped cream. It may also be dusted with chocolate powder on top or topped with nuts, icing, or fondant. It may also be made with jam instead and then called a Bavarian slice.

No matter how it’s made, it’s delicious. However, we’re pretty biased about the recipe we’re sharing today.

For our Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons, we combine two layers of puff pastry with a chocolate whipped cream and raspberry. It’s then topped with powdered sugar and a lemon raspberry curd. Naturally, the end result is pure bliss.

0 from 0 votes

Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons

Prep Time

40 mins

Cook Time

15 mins

Total Time

55 mins

These Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons are the perfect bite-sized sweet and tart treat for any occasion. Combining homemade lemon raspberry curd with chocolate whipped cream, these are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 36 bites

Calories: 92 kcal

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry
36 fresh large raspberries
Homemade Whipped Topping
3 Tbsp sweetened cocoa powder
1 tbsp sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup Lemon Raspberry Curd

Instructions

Thaw puff pastry according to box directions.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Once thawed, lay out flat. Cut along divides for three large rectangles.
Then cut each rectangle into 3 even squares.
Lastly, cut each square into 4 pieces. (You should end up with 36 small pieces of puff pastry)
Place pieces onto a baking sheet and bake according to box directions.
Remove from oven and let cool.
In a medium bowl, combine homemade whipped topping with cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla.
Whip until stiff peaks form.
Once puff pastries are cooled, use a knife and slice each one in half.
Pipe chocolate whipped cream on each bottom pastry.
Add one raspberry on top.
Add another layer of chocolate cream.
Carefully place top of puff pastry on and gently sift powdered sugar on top.
Drizzle lemon raspberry curd onto of powdered sugar.
Serve immediately. (*See Notes)

Recipe Notes

The chocolate whipped cream and puff pastry can be made up to 24 hours in advance. However, you should not fully make the mini napoleons until less than 3 hours ahead of time as puff pastry will loose it's crunchiness the longer it is exposed to the cream.

**Nutritional facts are just estimates. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates.

Nutrition Facts

Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons

Amount Per Serving (1 bite)

Calories 92 Calories from Fat 63

% Daily Value*

Fat 7g11%

Saturated Fat 3g19%

Cholesterol 19mg6%

Sodium 22mg1%

Potassium 25mg1%

Carbohydrates 5g2%

Sugar 1g1%

Vitamin A 195IU4%

Vitamin C 0.6mg1%

Calcium 10mg1%

Iron 0.3mg2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Pin these Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons so you don’t forget!

Salted Caramel Chocolate Streusel Bars

February 5, 2018 by Larisha Campbell 2 Comments

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Streusel Bars are the perfect combination of salty and sweet dessert. A creamy center with a crunchy topping in these chocolate bars makes them the perfect dessert.

For some reason, I’ve always loved salty and sweet treats. They are the perfect treat to me. I’m always looking for a new way to combine my favorite flavors together and I think these salted caramel chocolate streusel bars take the cake. The salted flavor comes in the form of both caramel and crushed pretzels. The sweet flavor emerges with chocolate, chocolate, and more chocolate plus sweet milk. A soft creamy center with crunchy pretzels bites, makes this dessert a home run for pleasing all your cravings at once.

These salted caramel chocolate streusel bars are the perfect recipe to take to your next get together. When they were cooking, the smell that happened inside our house was amazing. You know how something is cooking and you just can’t wait until it’s done because you have to try it. That’s what happened here. I was sitting in front of the oven, watching the timer count down, and begging time to fly by. Luckily, this sweet treat was highly satisfying. Andrew even said it’s one of the best desserts we’ve ever made…and he’s hard to please! The creamy chocolate center is really what sets this bar apart from so many others.

What are Streusel Bars?

Streusel is a sugary crumb topping that is usually on cakes, bars, or pies. At its most basic level, a streusel topping is made from flour, sugar, and butter. Streusel Bars are when a streusel topping is combined on top of a dessert bars. In these Salted Caramel Chocolate Streusel Bars, we combine a streusel topping with a chocolate dessert bar to make a delicious treat all will love.

0 from 0 votes

Salted Caramel Chocolate Streusel Bars

Prep Time

30 mins

Cook Time

50 mins

Total Time

1 hr 20 mins

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Streusel Bars are the perfect combination of salty and sweet dessert. A creamy center with a crunchy topping in these chocolate bars makes them the perfect dessert.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 24 bars

Calories: 334 kcal

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

For Bars

1/2 tbsp coconut oil
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup sweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup unsalted butter diced
1 egg
1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
1 1/2 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips divided
1/2 cup White Chocolate Chips divided
1 1/4 cup coarsely chopped pretzels divided

For Caramel

1 cup brown sugar
5 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp vanilla
pinch of salt

Instructions

Heat oven to 350°F.
Grease 13x9 pan with coconut oil. Set aside
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar and cocoa in large bowl.
Add in butter and using your hands or a pastry cutter, combine until mixture resembles coarse crumbs like a streusel topping.
Add egg and mix until well combined.
Reserve 1 cup of the chocolate mixture.
Press firmly the remaining chocolate mixture onto bottom of prepared pan, ensuring an even layer.
Bake 10 minutes.
While that is baking, in a medium sauce pot over medium heat, add all the ingredients for caramel except vanilla.
Stir until butter has melted. Then, reduced heat to medium low and let cook, unstirred for 5 minutes (it will bubble but do not stir-if getting close to the top reduce heat).
While you are waiting for the caramel to finish, place 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk inside a microwave safe bowl.
Microwave for one minute, then stir.
If needed, Continue at 15 second intervals until chips are melted and mixture is smooth.
Remove caramel from stove and stir in vanilla. Reserve 1/3 cup caramel.
Remove pan from oven.
Pour caramel over crust and spread to make even.
Add 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1/4 cup white chocolate chips, and 1/2 chopped pretzels on top of caramel.
Pour chocolate and sweet milk mixture next and gently spread evenly.
In a small bowl, combine the reserved crumb mixture, remaining semi-sweet and white chocolate chips, and remaining pretzels together.
Evenly sprinkle over the top of the bars.
Drizzle remaining caramel on top.
Bake for an additional 28-33 minutes or until center is almost set.
Cool completely and cut into bars.

Recipe Notes

**Nutritional facts are just estimates. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates.

Nutrition Facts

Salted Caramel Chocolate Streusel Bars

Amount Per Serving (1 bar)

Calories 334 Calories from Fat 135

% Daily Value*

Fat 15g23%

Saturated Fat 9g56%

Cholesterol 37mg12%

Sodium 88mg4%

Potassium 186mg5%

Carbohydrates 45g15%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 33g37%

Protein 4g8%

Vitamin A 330IU7%

Vitamin C 0.5mg1%

Calcium 82mg8%

Iron 1.5mg8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

PIN THESE SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE STREUSEL BARS FOR LATER!

No Bake Cheesecake Bites Recipe

February 3, 2018 by Larisha Campbell Leave a Comment

This simple no bake cheesecake bites recipe is quick to make and a sure home run for everyone.

Cheesecake is one of my favorite treats. Sometimes though, I don’t want to go through the entire process of making and baking an entire cheesecake. It’s exhausting. Plus, with the girls, I’m always trying to figure out ways to incorporate them into the kitchen to make their own recipes that are great for their size.

Insert: No bake Cheesecake Bites Recipe

Mini sized treats for them mean that this no bake cheesecake bites recipe is the perfect mini desserts to take to your next party or get together you’re attending. No matter where you are going (shoot, even if you are just staying home and going to devour them all to yourself), they are sure to be a hit with everyone. Bite sized treats are the perfect way to go when you are requested to bring a dessert.

How do you make a cheesecake without a springform pan?

One great way to make a cheesecake without a springform pan is to make these mini no bake cheesecake bites recipe. There’s no need to have a springform pan (or any other pan) making prep, baking, and clean up time a breeze.

They are super simple to make just using a basic no-bake cheesecake recipe and adding powdered sugar to make it thicker and hold its shape. Then, rolled in your choice of sprinkles. Use flavored sprinkles to enhance the type of cheesecake bites you are making, like our chocolate mint ones here.

Additionally, for a real cheesecake alternative, you could roll these in crushed graham cracker crumbs. These cheesecake bites are the perfect alternative to cake pops.

What toppings could you put on mini no bake cheesecake bites?

There are endless possibility for mini cheesecake toppings, but here’s a list of recommendations:

multi-color sprinkles
flavored sprinkles
crushed graham cracker crumbs
crush chocolate cookie crumbs
chocolate chips
peanut butter chips
toffee chips
crushed peppermint
chopped nuts
and more

The possibilities are truly endless. Alternatively, you could dip them in chocolate and caramel sauce similar to these chocolate covered caramel cheesecake bites.

5 from 1 vote

No Bake Cheesecake Bites Recipe

Prep Time

35 mins

Cook Time

1 hr

Total Time

1 hr 35 mins

This simple no bake cheesecake bites recipe is quick to make and a sure home run for everyone.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Servings: 12 bites

Calories: 105 kcal

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

4 oz cream cheese 1/2 a block
1/4 cup butter softened (1/2 a stick)
1/4 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp lemon extract
1 cup powdered sugar
*Desired Toppings - sprinkles flavored or not, chocolate chips, etc

Instructions

In a large bowl, cream together cream cheese and butter for 4 minutes.
Add in vanilla and lemon extracts just until combined.
Add in powdered sugar and stir until well mixed together.
Place bowl into the freezer for 30 minutes to slightly harden.
Using a one-inch scoop, scoop out balls of the mixture and place on a wax lined baking sheet.
Place into the fridge for one hour.
Then roll into sprinkles or other desired topping.
Serve immediately or store in an air tight container for up to 7 days.

Recipe Notes

*Nutritional facts do not include sprinkles or other optional toppings.

**Nutritional facts are just estimates. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates.

Nutrition Facts

No Bake Cheesecake Bites Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 bite)

Calories 105 Calories from Fat 63

% Daily Value*

Fat 7g11%

Saturated Fat 4g25%

Cholesterol 20mg7%

Sodium 64mg3%

Potassium 13mg0%

Carbohydrates 10g3%

Sugar 10g11%

Vitamin A 245IU5%

Calcium 10mg1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake

December 21, 2017 by Larisha Campbell Leave a Comment

THIS CARAMEL APPLE CHEESECAKE IS THE PERFECT HOLIDAY DESSERT! AFFILIATE LINKS CONTAINED IN THE POST HELP US EARN A COMMISSION.

If you know anything about me it’s that food is my love language. Okay, actually my love language is gifts of service, but if food was a language, it would be that. I’ve always loved desserts (yeah, I know, who doesn’t!?). I love making them. I love the reaction people get when eating an amazing dessert. It’s especially heart-warming when you make a dish from scratch and you see people’s positive reaction. Also, if you know anything about me it’s that cheesecake and doughnuts are the way to my heart.

Ask me my favorite flavor…I’m likely to say caramel apple. I’m like Bubba Gump with shrimp, but instead the flavor is caramel apple. Caramel apple apples. Caramel apple pie. Doughnuts. Cake. You get the point. But, the best of all….cheesecake. CARAMEL APPLE CHEESECAKE.

Y’ALL.

Caramel.
Apple.
Cheesecake.

I’d be lying if I said the first time I tried making this, I didn’t eat half the daggone cheesecake by myself. It was that amazing. Fast forward to the perfected version and I may have gained a few unwanted pounds, but hey, I’d do anything for you guys.

This caramel apple cheesecake is the perfect homemade cheesecake from scratch, topped with a caramel apple sauce and the perfect sweet crumble. Don’t mind that it sounds completely indulgent. YOLO! And let’s be honest, if you have a piece (or two) and make your body happy it’s not the end of the world. Just take the stairs instead of the elevator a few times and you’re good. I mean if you are really worried about it. If not, then do you and have an extra slice. As a matter of fact, it’s the holidays, make an entire extra cheesecake and just save it for yourself. I mean, if you don’t tell, I won’t tell.

Want to make the perfect cheesecake? Check out our cheesecake tips.

0 from 0 votes

Caramel Apple Cheesecake

Author: Larisha Campbell

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups of graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp brown sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter melted

For the Cheesecake

4 8 oz packages cream cheese softened
1 cup white sugar
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
4 whole eggs

For the Caramel Apple Sauce

2 fuji or other sweet apples, peeled and cubed
3 tbsp apple cider
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 teaspoon apple pie spice
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp water
1 tbsp flour

For the Crumb Topping

1 cup flour
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp apple pie spice
1 sticks unsalted butter cold, cut into pieces

Optional Topping

1/2 green apple sliced thinly
1 tsp lemon juice
1/8 tsp apple pie spice

Instructions

Preheat over to 325 degrees.

For the Crust

Combine graham cracker crumbs, butter, and brown sugar together.
Evenly spread out on the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
Bake for 8 minutes.
Remove and let cool.

For the Cheesecake

Combine cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla well.
Add eggs, one at a time, just until mix together. (Don't over blend the eggs).
Pour into cooled crust.
Let sit for 5 minutes.
Bake for 55 minutes or until the center is just about set.
Turn off the oven and leave inside for 45 minutes.
Remove and let cool completely before adding the sauce.

For the Caramel Apple Sauce

Melt butter and apple pie spice together in a small saucepan over medium low heat.
Add apples, sugar, and 3 tablespoons apple cider.
Cook until apples are softened, stirring every few minutes.
Combine flour and water in a small bowl.
Add to the pan and stir until it is thickened.
Use a masher and mash until sauce has no chunks of apples remaining.
Remove from heat and cool.

For the Crumb Topping

Combine flour, brown sugar, and apple pie spice into a bowl well.
Using your hands or a pastry blender, add the butter and combine until no large pieces of butter remain.

Finishing up the Cheesecake

Spoon the crumb topping around the border of your cooled cheesecake.
Place the sauce evenly on the inside center of cheesecake (you may have additional sauce left over - you can serve this on the side or save for something else)
*Optional: Combine lemon juice and green apple slices and fan slices on the center of cheesecake. Sprinkle with apple pie spice.

No matter if you decide to have one slice, or a whole cheesecake to yourself, we wish you the happiest of holidays. This caramel apple cheesecake is the perfect holiday dessert to take with you wherever you are going. Or to a spring or summer party. Or to a fall harvest party. Maybe a birthday celebration. Or a baby shower. Have you got the point yet? Take it everywhere 😉 Enjoy!

Move over Cool Whip. Learn how to make homemade whipped cream. This healthy alternative to the tub you are used to buying. You only need 3 ingredients for this tasty treat!

Is there a difference between cool whip and whipped cream?

How do you make whipped cream?

Can I Make Homemade Whipped Cream In Advance?

Pin this Homemade Whipped Topping Recipe to Pinterest and save for later!

This post is part of a mom series we did called Time for Mom. Check out some other fun family-friendly posts from some of our friends! Rachel at My Mini Adventurer and Brie at A Breezy Life

This easy Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream is nicecream at the next level. Learn how to make decadently rich banana ice cream with just 3 ingredients!

What is Nicecream?

What’s the best Nice Cream Recipe?

How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Ice Cream

Pin this Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Nicecream Recipe for later!

This post is part of a kids cooking series we did called Mini Chef Mondays– a series of posts that kids can make primarily on their own. Check out some other fun kid-friendly recipes from some of our friends!

This easy doughnut recipe is a crowd pleaser! Try to make these dairy free homemade doughnuts each of the four ways, but ultimately the possibility are endless! You’ll never know these are a great dairy free breakfast option!

How do you make doughnuts at home?

How do you make dairy free doughnuts?

How to Make Dairy Free Homemade Donuts

Pin this Dairy Free Homemade Doughnut Recipe today!

These Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples are the perfect dessert! Whether you need a fun dessert after dinner or a more intimate dessert, they meet all expectations.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples

How long does it take to bake an apple in the oven?

How do you make Healthy Baked Apples?

Pin these Caramel Apple Cheesecake Baked Apples for later:

Craving both cake and cookies, but don’t want to compromise? These Double Chocolate Cake Cookies are the perfect combination to satisfy both cravings.

Not only did I love them, but the girls devoured them and then asked for more.

How do you make cake cookies without boxed cake mix?

Grab the Double Chocolate Cake Cookies Recipe:

These Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars are a hit all year round combining two amazing desserts: Cheesecake and Snickerdoodle Cookies.

I present to you Snickerdoodle Cheesecake Bars!

What is Snickerdoodle flavor?

PIN THESE SNICKERDOODLE CHEESECAKE BARS FOR LATER:

These Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons are the perfect bite-sized sweet and tart treat for any occasion. Combining homemade lemon raspberry curd with chocolate whipped cream, these are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Insert: Mini Chocolate Raspberry Napoleons

What is a napoleon dessert?

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Streusel Bars are the perfect combination of salty and sweet dessert. A creamy center with a crunchy topping in these chocolate bars makes them the perfect dessert.

What are Streusel Bars?

PIN THESE SALTED CARAMEL CHOCOLATE STREUSEL BARS FOR LATER!

This simple no bake cheesecake bites recipe is quick to make and a sure home run for everyone.

How do you make a cheesecake without a springform pan?

What toppings could you put on mini no bake cheesecake bites?

THIS CARAMEL APPLE CHEESECAKE IS THE PERFECT HOLIDAY DESSERT! AFFILIATE LINKS CONTAINED IN THE POST HELP US EARN A COMMISSION.

Want to make the perfect cheesecake? Check out our cheesecake tips.

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