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    Bring a Chill to Summer with Cool, Creamy Cheesecake

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    By Family Features | ContributorFrench Style Cheesecake with Vanilla Wafer CrustRecipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”Total time: 25 minutes, plus 3 hours refrigeration Servings: 8Crust:2          cups vanilla wafers, crushed1          stick butter, melted1/4       cup brown sugarWhipped Cream:1          cup heavy cream3          tablespoons sugar1          teaspoon vanillaCheesecake:8          ounces cream cheese, softened1          teaspoon vanilla1/2       cup powdered sugarTo make crust: Mix crushed vanilla wafers, melted butter and sugar; press into pie pan or individual pudding cups.To make whipped cream: In large bowl, using electric mixer, mix heavy cream, sugar and vanilla until thickened into whipped cream.To make cheesecake: Add softened cream cheese, vanilla and powdered sugar to whipped cream bowl. Using electric mixer, mix until smooth. Pour over vanilla wafer crust and chill 3 hours.Find more summer dessert ideas at Culinary.net. More

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      Bourbon Bacon Pecan Pie

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      By Family Features | ContributorPut a festive spin on this seasonal favorite made with the ultimate supernut due to their flavor versatility and nutritional benefits. Recipe courtesy of Emily Caruso of “Jelly Toast” on behalf of the American Pecan Promotion BoardPrep time: 20 minutesCook time: 70 minutesServings: 101          pie dough (9 inches)4          strips thick-cut bacon1/2       cup dark corn syrup1/2       cup light corn syrup1          cup light brown sugar2          tablespoons unsalted butter, melted2          tablespoons bourbon3          large eggs1/2       teaspoon salt2 1/2    cups raw pecan halvesPlace baking sheet in oven. Preheat oven to 350 F.Gently line pie pan with rolled out pie dough. Press into edges and up sides. Use fingers or fork to create decorative edge. Set aside.In skillet, fry bacon until crisp. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels then chop into small pieces and set aside. Reserve 1/4 cup bacon grease.In large bowl, whisk dark corn syrup, light corn syrup, brown sugar, reserved bacon grease, butter and bourbon. Add eggs and salt; whisk until mixture is even. Fold in pecan halves and chopped bacon.Pour mixture into pie crust and spread evenly with spatula. Gently cover edges of pie crust with aluminum foil. Place pie on preheated baking sheet and bake 60-70 minutes, or until pie is set in center.Remove pie from oven and cool completely before serving or chilling. Notes: Pie can be made 1 day ahead and refrigerated overnight. Allow pie to come to room temperature before serving.Find more regional recipe inspiration by visiting eatpecans.com. More

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      3 Steps Toward a Healthier Heart

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      By Family Features | ContributorAll aspects of health are important, but heart health is a crucial component of overall well-being. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among Americans but it doesn’t need to be – lifestyle choices play a key role in heart health and it’s never too soon to adopt healthful habits.  From exercising and getting proper sleep to healthy eating – including heart-friendly snacks like grapes – consider these simple steps.Eat RightAdopting a balanced and nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats can impact heart health. As an easy, convenient, heart-healthy food, grapes are a perfect ingredient for a heart-friendly eating plan that includes recipes like Grape, Broccoli and Avocado Salad with Toasty Oat Topping. Savory broccoli slaw pairs with the delicate sweetness of crisp, juicy Grapes from California while the toasted oat topping provides a crunchy finish. Grapes are low in sodium and a good source of vitamin K, which promotes heart health, and contain 7% of the daily recommended intake of potassium, a nutrient critical to heart health. Grapes are a natural source of beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols and help maintain healthy circulation by promoting the relaxation of blood vessels.In fact, according to a study published in the “Journal of Nutrition,” men with metabolic syndrome who consumed 1 1/2 cups of grapes every day showed reduced blood pressure, improved blood vessel function and a decrease in a key marker of inflammation.Women who consumed 1 1/4 cups of grapes every day as part of a separate study published in the “Journal of Nutrition” benefited from reduced blood triglyceride levels, LDL cholesterol levels, inflammatory proteins and other markers of heart disease.Get Quality SleepSleep is also critical for a healthy heart.  Most experts recommend 7-9 hours of sleep per night for adults. To help achieve that goal, create a bedtime routine by waking up and going to sleep at consistent times. Also ensure a comfortable sleep space by turning off electronics and setting the thermostat to a cozy temperature. ExerciseA regular exercise routine can have a positive impact on many areas of health. It can be especially beneficial for heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing inflammation and aiding in maintaining a healthy weight. At least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity is recommended by the American Heart Association.  Fuel your workout and recovery with heart-healthy and hydrating foods such as grapes. Find more heart-healthy recipes at GrapesFromCalifornia.com.Grape, Broccoli and Avocado Salad with Toasty Oat ToppingPrep time: 30 minutesCook time: 5 minutesServings: 6 Toasted Oat Topping:1/2       tablespoon butter1/3       cup sliced almonds, coarsely chopped3          tablespoons steel-cut oats1/8       teaspoon seasoned salt1/4       teaspoon Italian herb seasoningDressing:6          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil1/3       cup quartered red or green Grapes from California 1/4       cup wine vinegar1          tablespoon honey1/4       teaspoon sea saltfreshly ground pepper, to tasteSalad:1          bag (12 ounces) broccoli slaw2          cups lightly packed torn curly kale1 1/2    cups halved Grapes from California1/2       cup minced red onion1/3       cup chopped dried figsfreshly ground pepper, to taste1          large, firm but ripe avocado, dicedTo make toasted oat topping: In medium skillet over medium-low heat, cook butter, almonds, oats, salt and Italian herb seasoning about 5 minutes, or until lightly toasted and fragrant, stirring frequently.To make dressing: In small blender, puree olive oil, grapes, wine vinegar, honey, sea salt and pepper, to taste, until smooth.To make salad: In large bowl, mix broccoli slaw, kale, grapes, red onion and figs; season with pepper, to taste, and drizzle with dressing; toss well to coat. Add avocado and toss lightly. Transfer to six serving plates or bowls and sprinkle with toasted oat topping.Nutritional information per serving: 320 calories; 5 g protein; 29 g carbohydrates; 22 g fat (62% calories from fat); 3.5 g saturated fat (10% calories from saturated fat); 5 mg cholesterol; 160 mg sodium; 7 g fiber.Editor’s Note: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice. More

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      Game Day Appetizer Recipes

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      By Family Features | ContributorBefore the end zone dances and sideline celebrations, settling in for a winning game day experience starts with delicious foods. Whether your football parties take place at home, in the backyard or right outside the stadium, kicking it off with savory appetizers can get the crowd on its feet.Keep your game plan simple this season and light up the scoreboard with fan favorites like dips and wings. These versions are both easy to prepare and can be enjoyed fresh or made in advance and kept warm or reheated to energize your fellow diehards.Visit Culinary.net to find more touchdown-worthy tailgate recipes.Add Savory Spice to Game Day CelebrationsPowering up for a successful game day starts with a pregame spread, and no tailgate or homegate is complete without a spicy dip that brings the heat.This Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip is a perfect solution for firing up your crowd as it requires little preparation so you save precious time before kickoff. Whether you bake shortly before the game begins or make it ahead of time for a parking lot party, simply keep it warm and serve with chips or veggie sticks for a quick, shareable appetizer.Game Day Buffalo Chicken DipServings: 3-42          cups shredded chicken8          ounces cream cheese 1/2       cup sour cream1 1/2    cups sharp cheddar cheese, plus additional for topping, divided1/2       teaspoon onion powder1/2       teaspoon garlic powder1          heavy pinch dried dill1/2       cup hot sauce2          green onions, choppedblue cheese crumbleschips vegetable sticksHeat oven to 400 F. In bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and dried dill until combined. Add hot sauce; mix until combined.Transfer mixture from bowl to oven-safe dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, to taste.Bake until cheese is melted, approximately 15 minutes.Top with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onion.Serve warm with chips and vegetable sticks.Score a Touchdown with a Game Day DipOne of the best ways to take tailgating to the next level this season is by making healthier versions of classic game day fare. For example, you can be the MVP of your game day gathering with a delicious, hall-of-fame-worthy appetizer. Call an audible by using fresh, easy and healthy ingredients to make it better for you and score extra points with family and friends.This Game Day Taco Dip takes fan-favorite flavors – beef, refried beans, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes and black olives – and adds a twist with the Fresh Express Butter Supreme Salad kit. This tasty, colorful blend of green butter lettuce, red butter lettuce, radicchio and baby chard is available in the refrigerated produce department and is perfect for creating healthier versions of beloved tailgating dips, snacks, finger foods and more.Visit FreshExpress.com to discover more winning game day recipe ideas and find a retailer near you.Game Day Taco DipPrep time: 25 minutesCook time: 5 minutesServings: 121          pound ground beef1          package (1 ounce) taco seasoning1/4       cup water2          tablespoons minced cilantro1          can (16 ounces) refried beans, zesty salsa flavor1          jar (16 ounces) thick and chunky salsa, medium or hot2          cups guacamole1/2       cup sour cream3          packages (5 ounces each) Fresh Express Butter Supreme1 1/2    cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese1          cup tomatoes, chopped1          can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained1          package (14 ounces) tortilla chipsIn skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef 5 minutes, or until no longer pink. Sprinkle with taco seasoning; mix well. Add water; cook 2 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Transfer to bowl; cool to room temperature. Add cilantro; mix well.In 9-inch pie plate, evenly spread refried beans; top with seasoned ground beef and salsa. Add spoonfuls of guacamole across top of salsa then carefully spread to smooth.Place sour cream in small resealable bag; cut off corner. Pipe sour cream to create football shape on guacamole.Put pie plate in center of 15-by-18-inch tray. Arrange salad blend around pie plate. Top with cheddar cheese, tomatoes and olives. Serve with tortilla chips.Just Wing ItSkip the silverware at your next homegate and dive right in with a fan favorite that requires just your hands and a heap of napkins: wings.Whether you pick through your pieces or clean each wing to the bone, these Game Day Chicken Wings are perfect for eaters of all types. A simple flour-based coating keeps the recipe easy to make and baking in the oven means you can skip the messy fryer or firing up the grill. Cook until crispy then corral your party’s favorite dipping sauces from ranch and blue cheese to barbecue and more. Once your spread is served, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the game. Game Day Chicken WingsTotal time: 50 minutesServings: 41/2       cup butter, cubed1/3       cup flour2          teaspoons paprika1          teaspoon garlic powder1          teaspoon salt1          teaspoon black pepper10        chicken wingettes, thawed            dipping sauces (optional)            fresh parsley (optional)Preheat oven to 425 F.Line baking sheet with foil. Arrange butter cubes on foil.In medium bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.Coat both sides of wings in flour mixture then evenly space among butter cubes on baking sheet. Bake wings 30 minutes.Turn wings over and bake 15 minutes, or until crispy and fully cooked.Serve with dipping sauces and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired. More

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      Cocoa-Kissed Red Velvet Pancakes

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      By Family Features | ContributorIf the way to your loved one’s heart is through the stomach, there’s no better way to start off this Valentine’s Day than with a homemade breakfast prepared with love. Whether you’re whipping up a breakfast for a spouse with a sophisticated palate or trying to tempt the taste buds of your littlest loves, explore these ideas to get inspired.Red is the color of love, so build your menu around fresh strawberries or raspberries, which pair perfectly with French toast or crepes, and can even dress up a simple cereal.For a more sensible menu, opt for a fruity berry smoothie or a parfait layered with fresh fruit, low-fat yogurt and granola. Add a hint of loving indulgence by sprinkling dark chocolate shavings on top.Show your affection with a plate of these colorful Cocoa-Kissed Red Velvet Pancakes featuring rich 100 percent cocoa, buttermilk and fresh berries. Heart-shaped cookie cutters lend a special touch to these fluffy, flavorful pancakes. Add sweet garnishes like powdered sugar and berries for a sensational way to say “I love you.”Find more recipes you’ll love to share with your nearest and dearest this Valentine’s Day at Culinary.net.Cocoa-Kissed Red Velvet PancakesRecipe courtesy of NestléServings: 10 pancakes1          cup all-purpose flour1/4       cup granulated sugar3          tablespoons Nestlé Toll House Baking Cocoa1          teaspoon baking powder1/2       teaspoon baking soda1/2       teaspoon salt1          large egg1          cup reduced-fat buttermilk or low-fat milk2          tablespoons unsalted butter, melted1 1/2    teaspoons vanilla extract1          teaspoon red food coloringheart-shaped pancake cutters or cookie cutters (optional)butter, for garnish (optional)powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)maple syrup, for garnish (optional)fresh berries, for garnish (optional)In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt; stir well.In separate large bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, unsalted butter, vanilla extract and food coloring. Add to flour mixture; stir to combine. Allow mixture to sit 5 minutes.Heat nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Brush with oil or butter. Add about 1/4 cup batter to skillet. Cook about 2 minutes, or until bubbles start to form on top. Flip and cook 1-2 minutes, or until bottom is lightly browned. Serve immediately with butter, powdered sugar, syrup and berries, if desired. Tip: If using pancake or cookie cutters, be sure to coat with oil so pancakes don’t stick. Place cutters in skillet and pour batter into cutters. Remove cutters before flipping. More

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      Kick Winter’s Chill with Hearty Chowder

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      by Family Features | ContributorColder, shorter days call for a little comfort. Cozying up with a hearty meal on brisk winter evenings can help fight off the chill while savoring favorite flavors alongside the ones you love.Avoid venturing into the cold for a trip to the store by turning to a pantry staple like sweet potatoes. As one of the most versatile veggies, they’re easy to add to a variety of recipes while enhancing both flavor and nutrition. Perfectly suitable for both simple and elevated dishes, they can be baked, microwaved, grilled, slow cooked or prepared on the stove so their sweet taste never goes out of style.Their long shelf life – up to four weeks if stored properly in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources – means you can rely on sweet potatoes throughout the winter as an on-hand ingredient. Additionally, as a “diabetes superfood” according to the American Diabetes Association, they’re rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, all of which are good for overall health and may help prevent disease, making them a key source of nutrients during wintertime.When your family needs a warm-up on those frosty days, put sweet potatoes at the center of mealtime (with an added kick) in this Jalapeno Sweet Potato Chowder. Loaded with the flavors of winter comfort, it’s a filling meal that makes enough for a crowd so no one goes hungry.Visit ncsweetpotatoes.com to find more comforting meal ideas.Jalapeno Sweet Potato ChowderRecipe courtesy of the North Carolina Sweet Potato CommissionServings: 62          large North Carolina sweet potatoes, baked1          small onion, 1/4-inch diced2          tablespoons olive oil1          quart chicken or vegetable stock2          cups cooked chicken, cubed1 1/2    cups whole corn kernels2          teaspoons minced jalapenos1/2       cup heavy cream1          teaspoon saltchopped scallions, for garnishPeel baked sweet potatoes; discard skin and puree.In soup pot, saute onion in butter until softened. Add pureed sweet potato and stock, as desired. Bring to boil, reducing liquid slightly.Add chicken, corn, jalapenos, heavy cream and salt. Simmer 10 minutes.To serve, ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions. More

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      Holiday Fun with a Joyful Pop

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      By Family FeaturesWith countless ways to enjoy the holiday season from decorating and hosting parties to wintertime activities, it’s a perfect time to bring family and friends together for some festive fun. One simple ingredient can be your go-to for just about any tradition: popcorn, which is an inexpensive, versatile, whole grain that makes holiday occasions better.Consider these simple seasonal ways you can let popcorn fuel your holiday adventures.DecorateStrings of popcorn and cranberries add a nostalgic touch to the family tree while making popcorn trees adds whimsy to the table. Before stringing popcorn, let it sit out for a day or two as freshly popped popcorn may be too fragile to thread without breaking. Push a threaded needle through the center of each kernel then pull the kernel to the end of the knotted thread, adding an occasional cranberry, if desired. Festive trees can be made using popcorn mixed with melted marshmallows then shaped and finished with sprinkles.Give It as a GiftIf it’s your turn to host this year’s holiday party, popcorn makes for a perfect party favor. Pop up a delicious treat like these Cranberry Popcorn Balls, place them in pretty jars or neatly wrap them then finish each with a bow. For an added touch, include the recipe instructions and popcorn kernels in a separate container so your guests can make it at home.Enjoy It as a SnackFreshly popped popcorn is a simple and delicious snack to share after a day of shopping, caroling, sledding or decorating. You can take the holiday season up a notch with creative recipes like Gingersnap Popcorn Snack Mix, White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Bark and Easy, Elegant Holiday Popcorn. These treats are perfect for popping up in the morning so the snacks are ready once guests arrive.Visit Popcorn.org to find more sweet, salty and savory holiday recipe ideas.Gingersnap Popcorn Snack MixYield: 2 quarts2          quarts popped popcornbutter-flavored nonstick cooking spray1/3       cup granulated sugar substitute2          teaspoons ground ginger1/2       teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg1/4       teaspoon cinnamon1/4       teaspoon ground cloves1/8       teaspoon freshly ground black or white pepperPreheat oven to 325 F.Spread popcorn on baking sheet and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.In small bowl, combine sugar substitute, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and freshly ground pepper; sprinkle evenly over popcorn.Spray again with nonstick cooking spray and toss to coat evenly.Bake 7 minutes and serve warm.Easy, Elegant Holiday PopcornYield: 8 cups8          cups popped popcorn1/2       cup milk chocolate chips1/2       cup white chocolate chipscandy sprinklesOn serving platter, spread popcorn in thin layer.Over double boiler or in microwave, melt milk chocolate chips. Drizzle over popcorn.Over double boiler or in microwave, melt white chocolate chips. Drizzle over popcorn.Sprinkle candy sprinkles over warm, chocolate-coated popcorn. Allow drizzles to set until firm. White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn BarkYield: 1 pound5          cups popped popcorn12        ounces white chocolate baking chips, chopped white chocolate or white candy coating1          cup crushed hard candy peppermintsCover baking pan with foil or wax paper; set aside.Place popcorn in large bowl; set aside.In double boiler over barely simmering water, melt chocolate, stirring until smooth, or melt according to package directions.Stir in crushed peppermints after chocolate is melted. Pour chocolate mixture over popcorn mixture and stir to coat. Spread onto prepared pan; cool completely.When chocolate is cooled and set, break into chunks for serving.Store in airtight container at room temperature.Cranberry Popcorn BallsYield: 18 balls2          cups sugar1          cup whole berry cranberry sauce, slightly mashed1          tablespoon grated orange peel1/2       cup cranberry juice1/2       cup light corn syrup1          teaspoon vinegar1/2       teaspoon salt5          quarts unsalted popped popcornIn heavy saucepan, combine sugar, cranberry sauce, orange peel, cranberry juice, corn syrup, vinegar and salt. Bring to boil; lower heat and cook to 250 F on candy thermometer.Mixture will bubble in pan; watch to keep from boiling over.Pour slowly onto hot popcorn and mix until well-coated.Let stand 5 minutes, or until mixture can easily be formed into balls.Butter hands and form into 3-inch balls.Visit Popcorn.org to find more sweet, salty and savory holiday recipe ideas. More

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      Ghostly Graveyard Cake Recipe 

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      By Family FeaturesFor a frighteningly fun time in the kitchen this Halloween, gather your family around the cauldron to create a sweet, spooky dessert. Tricks and treats may provide thrills, but a homemade concoction can be the star of your hauntingly happy evening.This Ghostly Graveyard Cake takes imagination and creativity from everyone with tombstones, skulls and spooky icing daring all to try a bite. With looks this chilling, it’s a perfect treat to enjoy while watching everyone’s favorite scary movie.Find more deliciously devious desserts at Culinary.net.
      [embedded content]Ghostly Graveyard Cake1          box chocolate cake mix10        chocolate creme cookies1          cup black melting chips1          cup red melting chips1          cup heavy whipping cream3          cans buttercream icing1          purple food coloring1          black food coloring             skull sprinkles            tombstones and bones candiesPrepare cake mix according to package instructions in three 6-inch baking pans. Once baked, allow to completely cool outside of pans.In zip-top bag, using rolling pin, crush chocolate creme cookies; set aside.In separate small bowls, add black melting chips and red melting chips.In microwave, heat heavy whipping cream 1 1/2 minutes. Pour half the mixture into one bowl of chips and other half into other bowl of chips. Stir until chips are completely melted; set aside.After cakes cool, on cake board, add small amount of buttercream icing so cake sticks. Using bread knife, level cakes.Place one cake on cake board and add thin layer of icing on top. Place second layer of cake on top and add thin layer of icing on top. Place final layer of cake on top and add thin layer of icing on top. Add thin layer of icing to entire cake. Freeze 15 minutes.In small bowl, mix two parts purple food coloring to one part black food coloring. Ice cake with deep purple icing. Using grooved scraper, scrape along sides of cake. Using angled spatula, smooth top of cake.Add skull sprinkles around edges of cake. Using piping bag with small opening at tip, drip black drip mixture around top edges of cake. Repeat using red drip mixture.Add chocolate creme cookie crumbs to top of cake. Add tombstones and bone sprinkles to top of cake. More