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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
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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
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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


Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies
Delicious Recipes

Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies

LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment
Cake Mix Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies | lookingjoligood.blog

Several years ago, I had a version of these cookies while my sister-in-law’s mother was visiting for Christmas. They left such an impression that I’ve thought about them often ever since. Recently, I decided to track down the recipe and give it a try.

Trust me, if you make these Ooey Gooey Butter Cookies, you’re going to have a hard time resisting them. They’re soft, chewy, and bursting with a rich buttery flavor that makes them absolutely irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, they’re the kind of treat that disappears as soon as they hit the plate.

I found this recipe on the Betty Crocker site and wanted to share it with you. I’ve included the link to their recipe and video guide below—happy baking! And don’t say I didn’t warn you—they’re dangerously good!

Ingredients

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 box Betty Crocker™ Super Moist™ Yellow Cake Mix
  • 1-2 cups powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth. Then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended.
  3. Add Cake Mix: Gradually stir in the yellow cake mix until fully combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
  4. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step makes it easier to handle.
  5. Form Cookie Balls: Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
  6. Coat in Powdered Sugar: Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
  7. Bake: Place the cookie balls on ungreased cookie sheets, spaced about 1 inch apart. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
  8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, you can sprinkle more powdered sugar on top before serving.

Tips

  • For variations, consider using different cake mixes like chocolate or lemon.
  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
  • Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days (there is no way these cookies are still going to be around three days later. 😉)

Enjoy these delicious gooey butter cookies that are sure to be a hit with family and friends!

Betty Crocker’s recipe:
https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/cake-mix-gooey-butter-cookies/f7a9017b-870f-4b20-b37f-392f53c65fbc!
https://www.bettycrocker.com/videos/cake-mix-gooey-butter-cookies

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Hearty Ham and Potato Soup
Lifestyle

Hearty Ham and Potato Soup

LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

Another great way to use leftover holiday ham is to make soup with it. Ham and potato soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly day. Adding vegetables like carrots, celery, and peas will make it even more hearty and nutritious.

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups diced potatoes
  • 2 cups chopped cooked ham
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add broth and water: Stir in vegetable broth, water, thyme, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
  3. Add potatoes and ham: Add diced potatoes and chopped ham to the pot. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
  4. Add peas and cream: Stir in frozen peas and heavy cream (if using). Simmer for 5 more minutes.
  5. Serve: Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

You can add heavy cream to the Ham and Potato Soup for a richer and creamier flavor. Simply stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the pot after the potatoes and ham have cooked. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the soup is heated through.

Enjoy this comforting and satisfying soup with some crackers or a crusty loaf of French bread!

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Ham and Cheese Sliders
Lifestyle

Ham and Cheese Sliders

LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

Yesterday I shared a recipe for Dr. Pepper and Pineapple Glazed Ham. Leftover ham doesn’t have to be boring! Transform it into a delicious appetizer or lite meal with these easy ham and cheese sliders. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight dinner, these little bites of deliciousness will disappear fast!

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf of slider rolls
  • 1/2 pound sliced ham
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the rolls: Cut the slider rolls in half horizontally.
  3. Mix the spread: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  4. Assemble the sliders: Spread the mixture on the bottom half of each roll. Top with ham and cheese.
  5. Bake: Place the sliders on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve immediately.
Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Dr pepper glazed ham | lookingjoligood.blog Dr. Pepper and Pineapple Glazed Ham
Delicious Recipes

Dr. Pepper and Pineapple Glazed Ham

LauraJoli LookingJoliGoodLeave a comment

Ham is a classic holiday dish that is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. It is also delicious served as leftovers!

The combination of Dr. Pepper and pineapple juice creates a unique flavor! The Dr. Pepper combined with the sweetness of the pineapple juice creates a delicious glaze that infuses the ham with a unique flavor profile.

You can either use the liquid to baste the ham periodically during cooking or create a glaze by reducing the liquid to a syrupy consistency.

Dr pepper glazed ham | lookingjoligood.blog

Ingredients:

  • Pre-cooked ham
  • 1 cup Dr. Pepper
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Combine liquids: In a small saucepan, combine Dr. Pepper, pineapple juice, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
  3. Glaze the ham: Place the ham in a roasting pan and pour the glaze over it.
  4. Bake: Cover the ham with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes per pound, or until heated through.
  5. Broil: Remove the foil and broil for a few minutes to caramelize the glaze.

Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Cheesy Bacon Pull-Apart Bread
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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
Peppermint Bark
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Peppermint Bark

LauraJoli LookingJoliGood2 Comments

A festive and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself:

Ingredients:

  • 12 ounces white chocolate chips
  • 12 ounces dark chocolate chips1
  • 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy canes

Instructions:

  1. Melt the chocolates: Melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth.
  2. Spread the white chocolate: Spread the melted white chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Melt the dark chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate in the same way.
  4. Drizzle the dark chocolate: Drizzle the dark chocolate over the white chocolate, creating a marbled effect.
  5. Sprinkle with candy canes: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candy canes over the top.
  6. Chill and break: Let the bark cool completely, then break it into pieces.

Tip: For a fun twist, add other ingredients like chopped nuts or dried fruit to the white chocolate layer before adding the dark chocolate. 🎄

This recipe is quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Laura lookingjoligood.wordpress.com