Cheesecake Chocolate Peppermint TrufFILED MOTION

Happy Holidays!! I think don't that I have ever loved Christmas as much as I do now that I am in law school--mainly because Christmas holidays means escape from law school! Finals are over, and it's time to sit on the couch and eat delicious food. If you're looking for some fun, festive and easy treats to stuff your face with, check out these little morsels! So simple, so elegant, and SO DELICIOUS!

What you will need:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 4 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes

How you make it:
Cream the cream cheese and the powdered sugar together. Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave, being careful not to burn them and add to the cream cheese mixture. Refrigerate for 20 minutes. Then mold spoonfuls of the batter into round balls using your hands. Roll the truffles in crushed candy canes and viola -- Homemade truffles! (I also used cocoa powder and powdered sugar to dust these for a different flavor) Enjoy!

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

LINKS! What does it mean to "file a motion"? http://legal-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/filed

Lemon Ricott-IFICATION Pancakes with Blueberry Sauce

I'll admit that I am not the biggest fan of sweet breakfast foods. My favorite breakfast is a bagel, lox, cream cheese, tomato, and onion sandwich. YUMMMMM! I like a bite or two of a pancake or french toast, but the sweetness usually gets to me and I can't go on past that. This recipe, however, has changed my world. I could eat a whole stack! The lemon cuts through the sweetness and makes you want more and more. Check it out, friend! NOM NOM NOM NOM NOM

What you'll need for...

the pancakes:
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
-  3/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 cup ricotta (DON'T use fat free, it's flavorless)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp baking powder

the blueberry sauce:
- 2 cups blueberries (I used frozen)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 tbsp water (if NOT using frozen)

How you make it:

Start by heating your over to 200 degrees. You'll put the cooked pancakes of a baking dish and keep them in the oven while you cook the rest. This will keep all your pancakes warm and delicious. Let's be honest -- a cold hard pancake is not nearly as delicious as a warm fluffy one.

In a medium saucepan, combine all of the ingredients for the blueberry sauce. Stir, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let simmer. Stir occasionally until the sauce has thickened.

Meanwhile, in a bowl, whisk together the ricotta, oil, egg, egg whites, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Slowly add in all of the dry ingredients and mix well.

On medium heat, butter a large pan. Pour desired batter amount into the pan. I did about a ladle's worth for each pancake, but they were on the smaller side. When bubbles appear on top and the bottom is nicely golden, flip over!  When done, place them in the oven to keep warm as you cook up the remaining batter.

When all ready, top the pancakes with the deliciously warm and sweet blueberry sauce. Serve and enjoy! YUM! But just a warming -- the blueberry sauce will make your mouth temporarily blue! Small price to pay for deliciousness.

LINKS! What's CODIFICATION??

Title of OwnerSHRIMP

SHRIMP SHRIMP SHRIMP!!! Lately, most of my posts have been sweet. I thought it was about time to mix it up and make a savory post. I find it hard to post savory recipes, however. I honestly believe that you have to gauge the right amount of spices in the moment. Sometimes, following a recipe exactly isn't always the best course of action. Here are my best approximations of the making for an amazing dish! Eat up, friends, but take a chance and make some in-the-moment-changes!

What you'll need:

- 1lb large shrimp, cleaned and split

- 3 cloves garlic, chopped

- 1/2 tbsp paprika 

- handful of dill or parsley

- 1/4 cup of margarita mix

- 1/4 cup dry white wine

- salt and pepper to taste

- 2 tbsp olive oil

How you make it:

Start by warming the garlic, paprika, pepper and salt in the olive oil. Once warmed through and aromatic, make sure your pan is VERY hot and toss in your shrimp. Saute until pink and almost completely cooked through. Then pick out the shrimp. Pour the margarita mix and white wine into the pan and warm through. Once bubbling (1 or 2 mins), add in the shrimp, add the chopped dill or parsley, and finish cooking. Remove from heat when fully cooked (another 1-2 mins). Make sure not to over cook your shrimp or else they will be chewy! Serve with pasta or crusty bread! NOM NOM NOM

Terms!

Title of Ownership: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Title_(property)

EXPRESS-o CONSENT & Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding with Pumpkin Caramel Sauce

It's not implied, it's EXPRESS-o CONSENT Chocolate chip Bread Pudding!

In the spirit of Halloween, I have made an espresso chocolate chip bread pudding with pumpkin caramel sauce! In my head, I imagined the bread pudding coming out a lot darker and the pumpkin sauce being a lot more orange, but regardless, I think it turned out devilishly good! I typically don't like to "toot my own horn," but I HAVE to brag just a little bit about this recipe. Here's why -- I have never made bread pudding before, I came up with this recipe on my own (I modeled it after a basic bread pudding and made proper adjustments), and I don't think I'd change a thing about it (which is unheard of for me after making something for the first time)!  ...okay, maybe I'd add black food coloring to the bread mixture if i REALLY wanted to get into the Halloween theme next time. 

I know the recipe takes a solid amount of time and quite a few ingredients, but it's well worth it! SO DELICIOUS! 

What you'll need for...

the Bread Pudding:
- 1 large loaf of crusty loaf (cubed, approx. 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup half and half
- 1/2 white sugar
- 1 tblsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh brewed coffee or 3 shots espresso [COLD!]
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rum, coffee liqueur, or triple sec (optional) [I used Triple Sec]

the Pumpkin Caramel Sauce
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1 cup half and half
- 2/3 cup canned pure pumpkin
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp all spice
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp clove

How you make the....

Bread Pudding:

In a buttered pan, lay out a layer of bread cubes and sprinkle the chocolate chips over the bread. Next, make a second layer of bread and set aside. Now mix together the eggs, whipping cream, white sugar, vanilla, and coffee.

Pour the mixture over the bread and chocolate layers. Place this entire thing in the fridge for at least 4 hours (and up to 24hrs).

Sprinkle the brown sugar across the top, then the liqueur. I also had extra coffee which I poured over the top to make it extra espresso-y! Place the pan with the mixture into a larger pan with hot water. The water should reached about 2/3 of the way up the side of the pan that is filled with the mixture. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes.

Pumpkin Caramel Sauce:

Start by melting the butter over medium heat. Next, slowly add the sugar, making sure to stir constantly until the mixture is well incorporated and it has turned a deeps gold. Make sure you don't burn the caramel!

Then, slowly add in the half and half and spices (optional) and continue to stir constantly until the caramel becomes thick and smooth. Add in the pumpkin and heat through. At this point, if the caramel looks too thick, add some extra half and half.

Allow to cool and then pour over the bread pudding (or anything else!).

ENJOY!!

Links! What does EXPRESS CONSENT mean?!

PUMPKIN DIPidends -- A Delicious Payout

I love fall because of hot coffees, cold noses, and big scarves; but most of all, I love glorious amounts of delicious comfort food. I wait all year for this time of year just to get my pumpkin pie fix. Baking a pie is too much work to fill random cravings, however. This recipe is a solid substitute and it can be whipped up in a matter of minutes! Check it out in the Lobby today! DIP away, my friends. DIP AWAY!

What you'll need:
- 2 packages of Cream Cheese (8oz each)
- 1 can of Pure Pumpkin (15oz)
- 2 cups sifted Powdered Sugar
- 1.5 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1 tsp Ground Ginger
- .5 tsp all spice (optional)

How you make it:

Beat the cream cheese and pumpkin together in a larger mixer bowl until smooth. Add in the remaining ingredients and mix well. Cover and refridgerate for 1 hours. Serve with graham crackers, gingersnaps, shortbread cookies or fresh fruit! NOM NOM NOM

Links:

What are dividends?! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dividend

Spicy Bacon Ranch CITE CHEX Mix

...and we're back at law school. When people say that the first year of law school is the hardest, they are lying! We just finished Week 1 of Year 2 and it's been rough...very rough. We're back and deep in work right away. Our biggest pain--CITE CHEX. Luckily, however, it'll get better. To start, life is easier when you have a nice snack to munch on. So, fellow cite-checkers, grab some CITE CHEX Mix in the lobby on Monday and enjoy your day a little more!

Links: WHAT IS A CITE CHECK?!

What you'll need:

- 3 cup of Chex cereal (Wheat)
- 3 cups Cheez-It crackers
- 3 cups croutons
- 3 cups oyster soup crackers (mini saltines)
- 2 packets (24oz) of Ranch Dressing dry mix
- 3 tblsp chili powder
- 3 tblsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 3 BIG tblsp bacon crumbles

How you make it:

Heat your oven to 250 degree. Melt the butter, mix in the seasonings, and gradually stir over the remaining snack ingredients. Make sure the everything is evenly coated. Then, bake uncovered for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Spread over paper towels to cool. Once completely cooled, store in an airtight container and nom away!

Hope that makes your cite checking a little easier :) Good luck!

60 Million LemHANS REISER Loafs

THIS IS EXCITING! So VERY exciting! I  got to spend last week watching the Hans Reiser civil trial. I guess what I found so great was the fact that I had the opportunity to see the case go from paper filings (which I helped with!) to the courtroom, to ultimately a jury verdict. All the writing and researching I've been doing this summer finally seemed real. Plus, since I have never served jury duty before, this was really my first true exposure to the insides of a courtroom. Honestly, I was expecting to like it, but I wasn't expecting to LOVE it so much--I really wasn't. Anyways, long story short -- I'm hooked! It was an amazing week and I want MORE! Just like you'll want some more of these lemHANS loafs! Yummmmm x 60 million!

Three different loafs -- three different twists -- but three equally delicious results! The recipe for every loaf is the same; the only difference is the addition of berries to one and poppy seeds to another. Enjoy!

NOTE: Please please please PRETTY PLEASE use FRESH lemon juice! It's just not good if you don't.

What you'll need...

For the Bread:
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp lemon zest (approx. 2 lemons)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries OR 3 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1 tbsp flour (if using blueberries)

For the Syrup:
- 1/3 cup FRESH lemon juice
- 1/3 cup sugar

For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tbsp FRESH lemon juice

How you make the...

The Bread:
  Start by preheating the over to 350 degrees. Grease the bottom and sides of your loaf pan (I'm using mini loafs-- depending on size, cooking time will vary). Mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl mix together the yogurt, sugar, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla, and oil. Then slowly add in the dry ingredients, making sure to incorporate it well.

If using blueberries, in a separate bowl, toss them with the tbsp of flour. Then add them to the mixture -- fold gently.

If using poppy seeds, add them in at this point.

Pour the batter into the pans and bake! If using a 9x5 dish, bake for approx. 50-55 mins or until a toothpick comes out cleanly. Remove and let cool completely.

Meanwhile, combine lemon juice and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolves. Then cook for another 3 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit. Next, use a toothpick to poke holes in the top and sides of the loaf and brush with the lemon syrup until all of the syrup is gone.

The Glaze:
   Simply whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice. Then pour this over the top of the loaf. Let the glaze harden a little before serving.

Listen, it's CapreHEARSAY Salad

So Italy might have lost the European championship, but this is still a winning Italian dish! (http://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/la-sp-italy-spain-soccer-20120702,0,2569775.story)

This is a freehand kinda recipe, meaning there are no exact measurements. I know this might scare some of you, but take this opportunity to step away from the recipe and trust your culinary self! (Plus, this is pretty fool proof). LIVE A LITTLE!

I first learned this recipe when I took a cooking class in 4th grade. We would sit in the school cafeteria and the teacher would show us how to make smoothies, salads, crepes, etc. I came home and made this for my family one day and it's been a staple ever since.

It's super easy, very fresh, and deliciously healthy!

What you'll need:
- fresh baby mozzarella
- tomatoes
- basil
- olive oil
- balsamic vinegar
- salt

How you make it:

Start by slicing the tomatoes and mozzarella into about equal sized portions. Layer the tomatoes and mozzarella slices (see picture). Next, thinly slice a handful of basil and sprinkle over the tomato and mozzarella. Drizzle olive oil, then balsamic vinegar, and then sprinkle some salt (add pepper if you wish).

DONE! Enjoy this winning combo!

Link: http://dictionary.law.com/Default.aspx?selected=858

Correctional Writs and Apples Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Okay ladies and gentlemen, there is a new feature of this blog! Get ready for it...are you ready for it? LINKS! Because, let's be honest, most members of my "fan base" have no clue what my play on words are referencing, I've decided to post informational links. Delicious combo! Feel free to laugh loudly at my play on words, cause now you get it!

I've really enjoyed my time in San Francisco. For those of you who don't know, I've been working here: http://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/pdfs/careers/students/SD_CWA.pdf ! Title make more sense now?? :-)

Anyways, make this! It's delicious!

What you'll need...

For the Cake:

- 2 cups flour

- 2 tsp baking powder

- 1/2 tsp baking soda

- 1/2 tsp salt

- 3/4 tsp cinnamon

- 1/2 tsp ground ginger

- 1/8 tsp ground cloves

- 1 stick of unsalted butter, softened

- 1 cup light brown sugar

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

- 2 large eggs

- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened applesauce

For the Frosting: 

- 5 oz cream cheese, softened

- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

- 1 cup powdered sugar

- 1 tsp cinnamon

How you make it:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and butter a 8 inch square pan. Beat the butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until pale and fluffy. Ad in one egg at a time, beating well after each. Then add in the applesauce. Slowly add in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and spices. Combine well. The batter will look like it curdled but don't worry, it's all good!

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan and bake until gold brown and the center doesn't giggle (approx. 35 mins). Let cool.

Now make the frosting! Beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla on high until fluffy. Add in the powdered sugar and cinnamon. Mix well. Then, FROST AWAY!!

So so moist and yummy! TRY IT!

OATMEAL RAISINable Person Cookies -- Anything but Standard

HELLLOOOOO again from San Francisco! My office is apparently a fan of potlucks, so it's time for another blog update! I kept it simple this time, but I wish I had spiced it up a little -- literally. I think these babies would be great with a little chili powder added in. (too bad I didn't have time to experiment. boo) These are still absolutely delicious and worth making! If anyone tries adding a kick in, let me know. I'm very curious! Enjoy :)

What you'll need:
- 3/4 cups butter, softened
-3/4 cups white sugar
- 3/4 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups oats (I used old fashion--DO NOT use insant!)
- 1 cup rasins
- 1 cup chocolate chips

How you'll make it:

Start by preheating you oven to 350 degrees and lining a cookie sheet with foil. In a large bowl/mixer, cream the butter, white and brown sugar together. When smooth, beat in the eggs and vanilla until fluffy. Then gradually add the baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and flour. Lastly, add in the oats, raisins, and chocolate chips. Make teaspoon portioned balls of the mixture and place on your cookie sheets. Bake for 8-10mins. [For crispier cookies, press down the balls a little before baking. For softer and thicker cookies, don't push down.]

PB & Chocolate Chip Fudgestration of Purpose

I'm still doing my thing, even in San Francisco! Check out this uber simple recipe (and tasty too).

What you'll need:

- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1.5 cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 16 ounces powdered sugar
- 1 cup chocolate chips

How you make it:
Start by lining an 8x8 baking dish with waxed paper. In a separate bowl, microwave the butter and peanut butter on high for 2 mins. Make sure you cover it or you'll have a mess on your hands! Remove, mix, and microwave again for another 2 mins.

Then stir in the vanilla, and carefully mix in the powdered sugar with a rubber spatula. When the mixture becomes smooth and "doughy", add in the chocolate chips. They will begin to melt, so try to incorporate them as quickly as possible.

Spread an even layer of the mixture into your lined pan. Cover and refridgerate for at least 2 hours. Cut into your desired size and serve! These badboys last for up to a week in an airtight container.

EnchiLAWda Pie

Honestly, this is AMAZING! Give it a go, just try it out! I promise you, you'll love it. It's pretty simple and looks extremely impressive. Plus, it's apparently, the "best thing I've ever made." Yummmmm, just thinking about it is making me crave more! and more! AND MORE!

What you'll need:
- 1 bottle red enchilada sauce
- 1 can of corn, drained
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1/2 can adobo chipotle peppers, finely chopped
- 1 can chopped green chilies, drained
- 2 cups cubed or shredded cooked chicken breast
- 3/4 cup shredded cheese (I used Mexican blend)
- 2 cups sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 box corn bread mix (and all the necessary ingredients to make it)
- handful of shredded lettuce and sour cream for topping

How you make it:

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. Meanwhile, cook the bell peppers, mushrooms, and onion on medium heat with a little olive oil and salt and pepper. When the vegetables are tender, add the chicken, enchilada sauce, green chilies, adobo peppers, corn, black beans, and taco seasoning. Warm through.

In a separate bowl make the corn bread mixture, following directions on the box.

Pour the chicken mixture into a 9x12in baking dish. Spread the corn bread mixture over the top (don't worry about coving the entire pan, it will expand as it bakes). Bake for 20-30 minutes, until golden brown. Remove when done and let sit for a little to cool. Then spoon this deliciousness onto plates, top with sour cream and lettuce, and DIG IN!  nom nom nom nom nom!!!

CofFEE SIMPLE Cake with Pecans

Okay, so I've been wanting to make this for the longest time, and maybe I got a little over eager. It's delicious, and if you tried a piece [there are samples in the law school lobby], just beware that this isn't the typical coffee cake.  It has a lighter cake than is typical, and I added granola to the top for a little crunch. Enjoy, and good luck with finals!!

What you'll need for the...
Crumb Topping: 

- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 steel cut oats (or I used granola)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- pinch of salt

Cream Cheese Swirl:

- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans

Coffee Cake: 

- 3 cups flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup apple sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs


How you make it:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.

Mix together your flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl beat together the butter and sugar until it is fluffy. Then add the eggs, buttermilk, and apple sauce. Next, gradually add in the dry ingredients, making sure to everything is combined well. Add in the sour cream and mix well.

Pour the mixture into the greased pan.

Now make the cream cheese swirl. Beat together the cream cheese and brown sugar until fluffy, mix in the vanilla, cinnamon, and pecans.

Spoon the cream cheese mixture on top of the cake batter. Then, use a butter knife to swirl the cream cheese throughout the mixture. Do not over mix!

Lastly, you will top it all off with the crumb mixture! Mix all of the crumb ingredients in a small bowl, mix with a fork until the mixture resembles yummy crumbles, and then top the cake off with all of it!

Bake for 40-45 minutes and then enjoy the yummy, dense, crumbly, and oh so good cake! NOMSSSSSS

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEAGAN! Articles of CONFETTIracy TRUFFLES!

Today is Ms. Meagan Roach's Birthday! Ay Ayyyyy!! In celebration of this pretty lady's day, I decided to bring back and oldie in a whole new form! Meagan wouldn't tell me her favorite cake, but who doesn't love funfetti cake?!? I decided to mix it up by making them into NO BAKE truffles! Bite sized and absolutely delicious! Yummers

What you'll need:

- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened

- 1/2 cup white sugar

- 1 1/2 cups flour

- 1 cup yellow cake mix

- 1 tsp vanilla

- 1/8 teaspoon salt

- 3-4 tbsp milk

- 2 tbsp sprinkles

Truffle Coating:

- 1 1/2 cups white chocolate

- sprinkles

 
How you make it: 


Start by beating together the butter and sugar in an electric mixer. When combined, add in the vanilla, cake mix, flour, salt, and mix thoroughly. Next, add 3 tablespoons of milk. It takes a little time, but the mixture should be a doughy consistency. If it is too dry, add the last tablespoon of milk. Then add in the sprinkles and mix with a wooden spoon. Roll the dough into one inch balls and place them on a wax paper lined cookie sheet. Then chill balls in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to firm up.
 

While dough is in the fridge, melt the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl in 30 second interval, mixing after each interval until fully melted. Next, dip the cold truffles into chocolate and shake off any excess. Do this one at a time and try to work quickly because the warm chocolate begins to melt the dough. Then place the little nuggets back on the cookie sheet and top with lots of sprinkles

Chill the truffles in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve!

The birthday girl is the sexy lady in the middle! Doesn't her hair look great?!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEAGAN!!! 

With the extra yellow cake mix, I made Meagan a rainbow (her favorite)

Yellow cake, food coloring, and some dark chocolate merlot ganache frosting! (Frosting: melt 1/2 cup butter with 3/4 cups dark chocolate chips in a microwave. Mix well and add in 1/4 cup of merlot wine. Mix and refrigerate for 20 mins or until sets to a creamy texture. Then frost!)

Russian WarranTEA Cakes

Yum Yum Yum! My mother's favorite cookies! She tells me they are like the cookies she ate growing up in Ukraine. I've been on a mission to replicate them for my her. I've tried multiple recipes before and somehow they just never worked out. UNTIL NOW! Try these little delicious treasures! They're delicate, buttery, perfectly sweet, with a nice nutty crunch. yummmmmmmm

[Sidebar: these gems are also known as "Snowballs"and "Mexican Wedding Cake"]

What you'll need:
- 1 cup butter, room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsps vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups flour
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans

How you make it:

Start by toasting the pecans in a 400 degree oven for 5 to 7 minutes. Meanwhile, beat the butter in an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add in a 1/2 cup of the powdered sugar and the vanilla. Beat this mixture well.

In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cinnamon, and salt. Then add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, slowly. When everything comes together, add in the pecans and mix with a wooden spoon.

Divide the dough in half and form each half into a ball. Separately wrap the two portions of dough in plastic and chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Now preheat you oven to 350 degrees.

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Bake the cookies until light brown on their bottoms and just pale golden on top. This s approximately 16-18 minutes. MAKE SURE NOT TO OVER BAKE THE COOKIES or they will be dry and not tasty :(

Let the cookies slightly cool, and then gently toss the lukewarm cookies in powdered sugar. Make sure to coat the cookies completely.

Then set the cookies aside and let them cookie completely. Once completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar again.

YUM YUM YUM!!!!

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Peanut BUT-FOR CAUSATION Bars

These are healthy (woot woot!) and delicious. Plus, SUPER easy to make! Life is good with these babies around :)

What you need:
- 1.5 cups quick cooking oats
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips (I used dark chocolate, but you can use any kind)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (I used almond milk, but any kind will work)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup peanut butter (I used chunky to get an extra crunch)
- 1 mashed banana or a 1/3 cup of apple sauce
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon

How you make it:

Mix all of the ingredients together, pour the mixture into a lightly greased 8x8 inch baking pan or a 9inch pie tin and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes! Presto! Healthy dessert, snack, or breakfast! Also, next time I make this, I'm going to substitute the chocolate chips for dried cranberries or fresh apples chunks! nom nom nom !!!

PREMARINATION & DELIBERATION -- Deadly Good Steak & Mushrooms

After a short hiatus, I'm back in action! You ABSOLUTELY have to try these recipes out! I honestly couldn't even restrain myself from eating almost the whole thing before I took a picture. It's THAT good! The steak is delicious, but the mushrooms are really the big winner--and together?! My goodness, heaven! Do it! Do It! Do it!!! You will love it! 

Delicious Asian-inspired T-bone Steak

What you'll need:
- 3 large T-bone Steaks (or any cut of your choice)
- 1/2 cup Soy Sauce
- 1/2 cup Red Wine
- 1/4 cup Maple Syrup
- 2 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 2 tbsp Fresh Crushed Ginger 
- 2 tbsp (3 cloves) Crushed Garlic
- 2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (adjust according to your preference)

How you make it:


Mix together  all of the ingredients (minus the steaks) in a bowl. Then place the steaks and marinade in a ziplock bag, mix it around, and refrigerate for 4-6 hours. Cook on the grill (yum!) or stovetop and enjoy!

Balsamic Marinated Mushroom

1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper
1 tsp Black Pepper
1 tbsp Olive Oil
2 tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
1 tsp Dried Oregano
8 ounces/ 1 packages of baby portobello mushrooms, halved

Whisk together the black and red pepper, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and oregano together in a medium bowl.

Add the halved mushrooms and toss well to coat. Marinate for up to 4 hrs.

Cook in the oven (350F) or in a pan on your stovetop. If you use a pan and a lot of liquid collects, drain some of it. Cook on High for 7-10mins, until tender. You can also grill these babies--just skewer them! Grill 5 minutes per side.

Give RISE to property rights -- Bread CREATION

If there is one thing that I could eat forever and be in heaven, it is bread. All types of bread -- I just LOVE it! Yum Yum YUM! My grandfather would occasionally make bread when I was younger, and I absolutely loved those special days. I decided to mix it up from baking tons of sweets and make what I find most comforting of all -- BREAD! Here's my stab at a slightly sweet, very dense, but absolutely delicious bread! Enjoy!



What you'll need:

2 tsp Active Dry Yeast
3½ cups  All Purpose Flour
¼ cup  Vegetable Oil
¼ cup  Honey
1½ tsp  Salt
3  Large Eggs plus 1 for brushing
¼ cup  Warm Water

How you make it: 

In a small bowl, add the warm water, 1/4 cup of the flour and the yeast, whisk all together well and let it sit and proof for about 10 minutes until the mixture starts growing and bubbling.

In the mixing bowl of a mixer, add the yeast mixture, the eggs, vegetable oil, salt and honey. Mix well together then using the dough attachment gradually add the remaining 3¼ cup of flour, adding 1 cup at a time.

Remove the dough from the mixer and place it onto a floured surface and knead it for a couple more minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size.

After the dough doubled in size, divide the dough into 2 equal portions. In turn divide each piece into 3 equal portions. Using 3 of the pieces braid it into a loaf.

Place the breads onto a baking sheet, and let the bread double in size again. Once doubled, brush the breads with the egg wash. At this point you can sprinkle either poppy seeds or sesame seeds on it.

Bake the loaves in a preheated oven at 325° F for about 25 to 35 minutes or until nice and golden brown.

sKALEs (CHIPS) of justice

My friend made these for me for the first time. I was extremely skeptical when he suggested it...kale?! sounds gross. I, however, was beyond pleasantly surprised! I guess I should have trusted that if it's green and a boy still likes it, it must be good. AND IT IS! This recipe is ridiculously easy, delicious, and HEALTHY! Much better alternative to the potato chip! Try it out! It might just help you balance a healthy lifestyle. 

What you need:

- bunch of kale

- salt

- olive oil

How you make it:

3 steps! 

Start by rinsing and patting dry the kale. Then toss it with some olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake at 400 degree for 10 mins (or until crunchy). NOM AWAY totally guilt free!!!!

Valentine's Day Sweets Overload: Chocolate Chip Cupcakes, Dipped Pretzels, Red Velvet White Chocolate Chip Cookies, M&M Brown Sugar Brownies

It's Valentine's Day! It's a ridiculous holiday but we all LOVE it anyways! Here are some tasty treats that I'll be passing out all day, so look out for me in the law school and grab a sample!


Chocolate Chip Cupcakes with Pink Vanilla Frosting

What you'll need:


Cupcakes
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 3/4 cups Cocoa
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup chocolate chips

Frosting
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- 1 cup butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 5 tbsp flour

How you make it:

Cupcakes
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Line a muffin tin with cupcake wrappers.

In a mixer, combine the sugar, flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Beat in the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Then slowly add in the boiling water. The batter will be very thin. Let the batter cool a little and then add in the chocolate chips. Fill the cupcake tin 2/3 full and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting!

Frosting
In a small saucepan, whisk the flour into the milk and heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. You want it to be very thick. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. IT MUST COMPLETELY COOL BEFORE YOU CONTINUE!!

Once cool, stir in the vanilla. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and the sugar until light and fluffy. Then add in the cooled milk/flour/vanilla mixture and beat until it combines completely. It should look like whipped cream cheese.  THEN FROST AWAY!!!



Dipped Pretzels

What you'll need:
- pretzels
- chocolate chips
- white chocolate chips

How you make it:

Melt the chocolate in the microwave. I suggest setting it on HI for 15 seconds, stirring the chips, an then microwaving again until fully melted. Do this for each chocolate color separately. Then dip the pretzels in the chocolate and place on waxed paper to cool. Sprinkle with sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet.



M&M Brown Sugar Brownies

What you'll need:

- 2 cups flour

- 1 tsp baking powder

- 1/4 tsp baking soda

- 1 tsp salt

- 2/3 cups butter

- 2 eggs

- 2 cups packed brown sugar

- 1 cup M&Ms (or chocolate chips)

How you make it:

Start by preheating you over to 350 degrees. Melt the butter and then mix it with the brown sugar. Let it cool slightly and then add in the egg and vanilla. Mix well. Then add the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. When this is all integrated, slowly add in the flour. Make sure the batter is fully mixed and then spread the mixture into a 9x13 inch pan. Sprinkle the M&M over the top of it and back for 20-25 mins. The batter will set and turn golden. Let it cook completely before cutting. Enjoy!

Red Velvet and White Chocolate Chip Cookies

What you'll need:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 1/3 cups flour
- 4 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup white chocolate chips


How you make it:

Start by preheating you oven to 350 degrees. Cream together the butter and sugar. Then add in the egg and beat well. Next, beat in the vanilla and food coloring. Add in the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix everything together well and then add in the white chocolate chips. Scoop the dough onto a lined cookie sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes. Then enjoy!