Tag: health

Saltine Cracker Toffee | lookingjoligood.blog Saltine Cracker Toffee
Delicious Recipes

Saltine Cracker Toffee

LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

I remember as a child a classmate would bring homemade Saltine Cracker Toffee to our class parties and special occasions. The combination of the crispy crackers, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate was irresistible, especially since caramel has always been a favorite of mine.

This easy and irresistible treat combines crunchy saltine crackers with rich toffee, melted chocolate. Perfect for sharing at a holiday get together or gifting in festive tins during the holidays!

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 32

Ingredients

Saltine Cracker Toffee | lookingjoligood.blog
  • 1 sleeve saltine crackers
  • 1 cup butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 bag (11.5 oz) milk chocolate chips (about 2 cups)
  • 1 tablespoon candy sprinkles

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15x10x1-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and coat the foil with cooking spray. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the pan.

Step 2:
In a 2-quart saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and salt, stirring frequently until the mixture reaches a boil. Continue boiling for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture turns a light brown color. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Immediately pour the toffee mixture over the crackers, spreading it evenly.

Step 3:
Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbly and golden brown. Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips over the top. Let them sit for 5 minutes to soften, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee. Top with candy sprinkles.

Step 4:
Allow the toffee to cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours, or until the chocolate is firm. Break into pieces and enjoy. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Variation Idea:
For a delicious twist, substitute the saltines with graham crackers, use packed dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar, skip the chocolate chips, and sprinkle with chopped pecans instead

Saltine Cracker Toffee | lookingjoligood.blog

Enjoy!

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Coffee Punch
Delicious Recipes

Coffee Punch

LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

Smooth, creamy, and irresistible—this is the ultimate treat for special occasions! I discovered this recipe years ago and first made it for a church function, it was a crowd pleaser. Having a sweet tooth, I instantly fell in love with how rich and creamy it was! Since then, I’ve made it many times, and it’s always a hit. This drink is so indulgent it can even double as a dessert. If you prefer, you can use decaf coffee to make it.Make your punch bowl look extra festive by drizzling chocolate and or caramel syrup along the inside before adding the coffee punch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (or overnight)
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 20
Yield: 1 large punch bowl

Ingredients

  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 (2-ounce) jar instant coffee granules (e.g., Nescafe®)
  • 1 gallon 2% milk
  • ½ gallon vanilla ice cream
  • ½ gallon chocolate ice cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coffee Base
    In a large bowl, combine the boiling water, sugar, and instant coffee granules. Stir until the sugar and coffee are fully dissolved. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to chill.
  2. Assemble the Punch
    Transfer the chilled coffee mixture to a large punch bowl. Add the milk, vanilla ice cream, and chocolate ice cream.
  3. Mix and Serve
    Gently stir the punch until the ice cream starts to melt, creating a creamy and frothy consistency. Serve immediately.

Enjoy this crowd-pleasing, indulgent coffee punch at your next gathering!

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Million Dollar Dip | lookingjoligood.blog Million Dollar Dip
Delicious Recipes

Million Dollar Dip

LauraJoli LookingJoliGood2 Comments

Last Christmas, my mother-in-law served this Million Dollar Dip, and it was an instant hit. My kids loved it so much that they not only ate a ton of it on Christmas day, they now ask me to make it regularly. It has quickly become a favorite! The original recipe is from Better Homes and Gardens.

Million Dollar Dip | lookingjoligood.blog
This image is from Better Homes and Gardens

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup sour cream
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3/4 cup chopped cooked bacon (about 8 slices)
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup toasted slivered almonds
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 2 cups)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Creamy Base
    In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese on low speed until smooth. Add the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and onion powder, and continue mixing until well combined.
  2. Incorporate the Mix-Ins
    Reserve 1–2 tablespoons each of bacon, green onions, and almonds for garnish. Add the remaining bacon, green onions, almonds, and shredded cheddar cheese to the creamy mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
  3. Toast the Almonds (Optional)
    To toast the almonds, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma.
  4. Finish and Serve
    Transfer the dip to a serving dish and sprinkle the reserved bacon, green onions, and almonds on top for added texture and flavor. Serve with crackers, corn chips, pretzel chips or cut up veggies.

Storage Tips
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended, as it may alter the dip’s texture.

Million Dollar Dip | lookingjoligood.blog
This image is from Better Homes and Gardens

Link to the Better Homes and Gardens Million Dollar Dip Recipe: https://www.bhg.com/million-dollar-dip-7968536

I’m also interested in checking out Better Homes and Gardens “21 Make-Ahead Dips No One Will Be Able to Resist Dunking Into” Here is the link for that: https://www.bhg.com/recipes/party/appetizers/make-ahead-dips/

Enjoy your Million Dollar Dip!

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Monkey Bread Recipe | lookingjoligood.blog Monkey Bread Recipe
Delicious Recipes

Monkey Bread Recipe

LauraJoli LookingJoliGood2 Comments

This easy Monkey Bread is a delicious, pull-apart treat that combines the sweetness of cinnamon and sugar with buttery biscuit dough. This monkey bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone! Here’s how to make it using Pillsbury refrigerated biscuits.

monkey bread | lookingjoligood.blog

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 cans (16.3 oz each) refrigerated Pillsbury™ Grands!™ Flaky Layers Original Biscuits (8 count)
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 12-cup fluted tube pan (Bundt pan) with cooking spray.
  2. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar: In a large plastic food storage bag, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
  3. Cut the Biscuits: Separate the biscuit dough into individual biscuits. Cut each biscuit into quarters.
  4. Coat the Biscuit Pieces: Add the quartered biscuit pieces to the bag with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Seal the bag and shake until all pieces are well coated.
  5. Layer in the Pan: Arrange the coated biscuit pieces in the prepared pan, layering them evenly.
  6. Make the Butter and Brown Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and packed brown sugar until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the biscuit pieces in the pan.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until golden brown and no longer doughy in the center.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the monkey bread to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a heatproof plate or serving platter. Serve warm, pulling apart pieces to enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious homemade treat!

monkey bread | lookingjoligood.blog

Here is a link to the Pillsbury Monkey bread recipe
https://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/sweet-and-sticky-monkey-bread/9e6e78e1-f715-47d5-9b5b-ecb4c754a1f7
https://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/monkey-bread-with-caramel/4a92932f-f795-4813-9800-d6e35e8d5a49

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com


Cheesy Bacon Pull-Apart Bread
Delicious Recipes

Cheesy Bacon Pull-Apart Bread

LauraJoli LookingJoliGood1 Comment

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s not only delicious but easy to make? Look no further than this Cheesy Bacon Pull-Apart Bread. This cheesy, buttery, and bacon-filled bread is the perfect party starter. It’s simple to assemble and always a hit with guests.

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf French bread
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Slice the bread: Slice the French bread horizontally into 1-inch thick slices, leaving the bottom crust intact.
  3. Fill the slices: Fill the slices with a mixture of cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, green onions, and bacon.
  4. Combine butter and seasonings: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Brush the bread: Brush the top of each slice with the butter mixture.
  6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Serve immediately.

Tip: For extra flavor, add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Gingerbread Cookies
Delicious Recipes

Gingerbread Cookies

LauraJoli LookingJoliGood4 Comments

I’m in the mood for holiday food. Over the next few days I am going to be sharing some holiday recipes. I love gingerbread cookies! These classic gingerbread cookies are perfect for decorating and gifting during the holidays.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Royal icing (for decorating)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then stir in the molasses.
  3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until1 just combined.
  4. Roll and cut: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
  5. Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  6. Decorate: Once cooled, decorate the cookies with royal icing and sprinkles.

Royal Icing:

  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons meringue powder*
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 5-6 tablespoons water

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and beat with a mixer until smooth and spreadable.

*If you need a substitute for meringue powder, you can use an equal amount of reconstituted egg white powder mixed with water, a slightly smaller amount of aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas), or a gelatin mixture made with warm water and gelatin powder – just be sure to adjust the liquid content accordingly depending on the substitute you choose.

Enjoy these festive treats with a cup of hot cocoa, glass of milk, coffee, or tea!

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
happy thanksgiving | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com Giving Thanks and the Importance of Being Thankful
Lifestyle · Love and Life

Giving Thanks and the Importance of Being Thankful

LauraJoli LookingJoliGood2 Comments
thankful | lookingjoligood.blog

Thankfulness is more than just saying “thank you” or “I am thankful.” It’s a way of seeing the world that can change how we experience life. I’ve come to realize that being thankful isn’t just something you do when things are going well—it’s a practice that can bring peace and perspective even when life feels hard and heavy. Gratitude is about pausing to appreciate what you have, the people around you, and even the lessons hidden in the difficulties and challenges. It’s not always easy, but it’s always important.

Thanksgiving By Ralph Waldo Emerson For each new morning with its light, For rest and shelter of the night, For health and food, For love and friends, For everything Thy goodness sends. | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

For me, thankfulness often starts with the small things: the cozy warmth of my home, the sound of laughter from my kids, cuddling with my sweet dog, dinner time around the table with my family, or even the simple comfort of a quiet moment after a busy day. These aren’t extraordinary things, but they’re what make everyday life full and enjoyable. When I take time to notice them, I find myself feeling lighter, happier, and better able to face whatever’s ahead. Gratitude reminds me that joy doesn’t have to come from big achievements or perfect circumstances—it’s already right here, waiting to be noticed and appreciated.

I’ve learned that being thankful for the people in my life strengthens my connections with them. Whether it’s taking a moment to thank my kids for their kindness or letting a friend know how much their support means to me, gratitude deepens relationships. It helps me focus on what’s good about the people I care about instead of dwelling on little frustrations. And the more I express my gratitude, the more it seems to grow—like a habit that gets easier and more natural over time.

thankful | lookingjoligood.blog

There have been moments in my life when gratitude felt far away—times when grief, stress, or disappointment seemed to overshadow everything else. But looking back, I’ve found that looking for something to be thankful for, no matter how small, makes a difference. It might be the kindness of a stranger, a supportive word from someone I trust, or just the reminder that hard times don’t last forever. Gratitude doesn’t erase pain, but it does give me something steady to hold onto. Being thankful can act as a light guiding me through the dark times.

Being thankful has taught me to slow down, to look for the good in my life and the people around me, and to trust that even hard moments have their place. It’s not always easy, and I don’t always get it right—but when I practice gratitude, life feels richer, and I feel more connected to what really matters.

So often, it’s easy to focus on what’s wrong or what’s missing. But when I choose to focus on what’s right, even in the smallest ways, I notice how much I already have. Thankfulness has become more than just a reaction to the good moments—it’s a way of living that makes every moment more meaningful.

Happy Thanksgiving!
Love, Laura

happy thanksgiving | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Sweet potato casserole | lookingjoligood.blog Sweet Potato Casserole
Delicious Recipes

Sweet Potato Casserole

LauraJoli LookingJoliGood2 Comments

I am sharing this recipe again this year because it is my favorite holiday side dish. I just finished preparing it for our dinner tomorrow and I cannot wait to eat it along with the other delicious thing we will be having for Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow.

Ingredients

Sweet potato casserole | lookingjoligood.blog
  • 4 cups sweet potato, cubed*
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Put sweet potatoes in a medium saucepan with water to cover. Cook over medium-high heat until tender; drain and mash. (or use canned yams and skip this step altogether.)
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the sweet potatoes, white sugar, eggs, cinnamon, salt, butter, milk and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  3. In a medium bowl, mix the brown sugar and flour. Cut in the butter until the mixture is coarse. Stir in the pecans. Sprinkle the mixture over the sweet potato mixture.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven 30 minutes, or until the topping is lightly brown.

*If you’re using fresh sweet potatoes, you’ll need four to six sweet potatoes to get four cups, depending on their size. One 15-ounce can of sweet potatoes is equal to one cup of fresh sweet potatoes. 

If you try it, please let me know!  I have a feeling that you will love it too!

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Breast Cancer Awareness: The Vital Role of Early Detection Every Month of the Year
Health/ Fitness

Breast Cancer Awareness: The Vital Role of Early Detection Every Month of the Year

LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

Early detection is crucial in the fight against breast cancer, and while Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October serves as a powerful reminder, it’s important to stay vigilant all year long. Catching breast cancer early can dramatically improve treatment outcomes, making routine screenings and self-examinations essential for women of all ages.

During October, the pink ribbons, events, and media coverage help spread awareness, but the message shouldn’t end when the month does. Breast cancer knows no calendar, and its risks persist throughout the year. Regular mammograms, clinical exams, and self-checks increase the chances of identifying any abnormalities early when they are most treatable. Early detection can mean less invasive treatments, improved survival rates, and a better quality of life during and after recovery.

Raising awareness year-round also helps break down barriers, whether that’s reducing the stigma of discussing breast health or ensuring that more women have access to preventive care. Education and support for early detection can save lives, but only if we remember that breast cancer doesn’t take a break after October. By keeping the conversation going every month, we reinforce the importance of proactive care, regular screenings, and empowering women to take charge of their health.

The goal of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is to educate the public about breast cancer, including the risk factors, signs and symptoms, and early detection methods. It is also a time to raise funds for research and support services for people affected by breast cancer.

Get screened. If you are a woman over the age of 40, talk to your doctor about getting regular mammograms. Mammograms can detect breast cancer early, when it is most treatable.

For more information click HERE

https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month/

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
early detection saves lives | lookingjoligood.blog October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Early Detection Saves Lives!
Health/ Fitness

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Early Detection Saves Lives!

LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment
Early Detection Saves Lives | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month! As an oncology nurse, I feel the need to spread the word that early detection saves lives!

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, with over 280,000 new cases diagnosed each year. It is also the second leading cause of cancer death among women, after lung cancer. However, early detection and treatment can significantly improve survival rates.

The goal of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is to educate the public about breast cancer, including the risk factors, signs and symptoms, and early detection methods. It is also a time to raise funds for research and support services for people affected by breast cancer.

Early Detection Saves Lives | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Get screened. If you are a woman over the age of 40, talk to your doctor about getting regular mammograms. Mammograms can detect breast cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Know the signs and symptoms. Breast cancer can cause a variety of signs and symptoms, including a lump in the breast, changes in the size or shape of the breast, nipple discharge, and pain in the breast or underarm. If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to see your doctor right away.

Talk to your friends and family. Encourage the women in your life to get screened for breast cancer and to know the signs and symptoms. You can also talk to them about the importance of breast cancer awareness and how to get involved.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to come together to support those affected by breast cancer and to raise awareness about this important disease. By getting involved, you can help make a difference.

There are a number of ways to get involved in Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You can donate to a charity that supports breast cancer research or support services, participate in a fundraising event, or simply talk to your friends and family about the importance of early detection.

For more information click HERE

https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-awareness-month/

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com