Shannon's Shanonigins: Happy New Year GiveAway

Shannon's Shanonigins: Happy New Year GiveAway: "Well it's almost here, 2011. Can you believe how time flies? To remind us that everyday is a present, I couldn't resist t..."

Holiday Fun Judging Cookies with the Ft. Myers News-Press

Me, Drew Sterwald, Norman Love

I was so excited to be asked by Drew Sterwald of our local Ft. Myers News Press to judge a Holiday Cookie Contest on December 8th.  There were so many great cookies to taste and I had such a great time.  There were 72 entries and each judge was sat at a table with 12 different cookies.  That table of 3 judges tasted each of the 12 cookies and choose the best of the 12.  Then the top cookies were placed on a different table and all of the 18 judges tasted those top 6.  Talk about a sugar high...whew...it was amazing!!  I found out that there are some awesome cooks among us here in Ft. Myers.  I am giving you a link to the article so you can see the cookies for yourself and the top three recipes are also on the link.  Yummy!!  I suggest you try them out.  I saw many people I knew there but was asked to sit at the table with the Food Editor of the News Press, Drew Sterwald who is a wonderful journalist and a really nice guy.  The other member at our table was Norman Love.  You might know him from the Food Network and from his famous business, Norman Love Confections.  You can find out more about him at his web site www.normanloveconfections.com. 

Norman Love and Me

He is amazing chocolatier and such a nice man. Here are some fun photos of the day.  Hope you enjoy them.  I must say, it was fun being on the other side of the judging this time.  Much less stressful!!!  Check out the article in the News Press at http://www.news-press.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=201012150329.  This article was written by Drew Sterwald and there is a photo gallery if you want to see the cookies also.  The photographs were taken by Lindsay Terry of the News Press.  The photo gallery is at http://www.news-press.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Avis=A4&Dato=20101209&Kategori=LIFESTYLES&Lopenr=12090807&Ref=PH.

  

BIG CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY!! A Butterball Indoor Electric Masterbuilt Turkey Fryer

We have a winner for the Butterball Turkey Fryer!! 
 Drumroll Please............
It is Elaine!  So Elaine, please contact me within 24 hours to claim your prize!!
Followers, I have great news!!!  The Masterbuilt company has provided a Christmas Prize Package for you.  It is a Delicious Indoor Turkey Fryer and it is valued at $159.00.  PLUS, if that were not enough, they want to give you a gift certificate for $15.00 off of a Butterball Turkey and the greatest cookbook you ever saw called "DADGUM That's Good!" written by John McLemore.  This might be the biggest Christmas present you get this year and it is FREE!!!!!

The Butterball Indoor Electric Turkey Fryer and the Masterbuilt All-Purpose fryer help you to overcome your fear of frying.  It's patented technology makes your fryer safe and guarantees you will never over-heat your oil.  There's no open flame to worry about.  It's the fastest way to serve up the best turkey you'll ever taste, in three easy steps:   inject, fry and eat!!

I was given the same prize package to try out because I would never recommend anything I hadn't tried and loved.  For Thanksgiving we had our very first Fried Butterball Turkey and we are hooked!! 
Not only can you fry with this great piece of equipment, but you can boil and steam.  So, whether you are in the mood to indulge in some fried food, or you're being a bit more health-conscious, this has you covered.
Can you imagine a big CRAB BOIL and do you know what you would pay for that at a seafood restaurant....you can't touch this!

You won't believe the great recipes in the cookbook either.  There are recipes for frying, steaming, and boiling.  You will find this to be a very useful tool in your kitchen.  I always say a cook is only as good as the equipment she uses.  You'll be thrilled with this.  Here is where you can find out more about this great fryer.

www.masterbuilt.com

www.dadgumthatsgood.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Masterbuilt/153933621381 

Twitter: @JohnMcLemore, @DadgumThatsGood, @Masterbuilt

Please follow Masterbuilt on Twitter and Facebook . If you don't win or do and want a second fryer to give as a gift, you can purchase the turkey fryer on Amazon.com.

Below are some details on the turkey fryer:

•       The fryer is retailed at $159.96
•       Adjustable thermostat temperature control
•       Stainless steel construction
•       Porcelain-coated inner pot
•       Digital timer
•       Folding lid with window and filter
•       Cooking basket with drain clip
•       Drain Valve for easy cleaning
•       Saves on oil - uses 1/3 less than conventional turkey fryers
•       It can feed up to 8 people when frying a 14 lb turkey

Also, I thought you might like to check out this video from John McLemore, the CEO of Masterbuilt, explaining how to use the turkey fryer; it’s very helpful! (video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xF3xQmtFyz8&feature=player_embedded)

Now what I want you to do is sign up for this great gift from Masterbuilt so you can hopefully get it by Christmas to cook your Christmas Dinner.  I will run this for only 1 week.   So on December 13th I will  announce the winner which will be generated by using random.org from your entries.
You may enter a comment for each of these things.  Each one will be counted as an entry for the fryer.
1.  Follow me on this blog and post a comment telling me which recipe you would like to try from the Dadgum That's Good Cookbook.
2.  Follow Materbuilt on Facebook and post on their page that you saw this on my blog.
3.  Follow Masterbuilt on Twitter and post on their page that you saw this on my blog.
4.  Follow Me on Twitter and repost this contest.  My twitter name is realwomanofphil.
5.  Post on your Facebook about this giveaway.
6.  Post on your Twitter about this giveaway.
7.  Finally, repost this on your blog and give me the link.  Post that comment twice on my page here and I will give you two entries for doing this.
Now, with that many chances, what have you to lose.  This is well worth the time to give it a try.
I was not paid by Masterbuilt to post this giveaway.  The opinions are my own and believe me I LOVE THIS!!!! I know you will too.  Good Luck and Merry Christmas!

Great Thanksgiving Week Give Away!!! Sign Up Today!

We have a winner...Janet Faye..please send me your email within 24 hours to claim your prize!! Congratulations!
Gathering the family around the dinner table to enjoy a home cooked meal is a great way to unwind, but there aren´t always enough hours in the day to prepare an entire meal from scratch especially on Thanksgiving when you have so many things to do.  

I use these all the time and they taste so close to homemade.  My family never leaves a bite in the bowl.  I know you will enjoy them as well.  They are quick and easy to make and delicious to eat.  This makes dinnertime so much for enjoyable than starting from scratch making these potato dishes.  For more information, visit BettyCrocker.com, and be sure to follow Betty Crocker on Twitter and "Like" the Facebook page to keep up with all of the latest news on your Betty Crocker favorites!  You can visit http://www.myblogspark.com/uc/main/4775/ for $0.55 off one package of Betty Crocker Boxed Instant Mashed Potatoes and in the meantime, I want you to have these two packages of Betty Crocker Potatoes and this beautiful bamboo bowl.  The picture does not do this bowl justice.  You will also receive a Betty Crocker Spook and this red trivet. 




To win this great prize package please do the following:
Follow my Blog and post a comment that you are a follower and tell me what kind of Betty Crocker Instant Potatoes you like best.  You can visit their home page to see all the different varieties.
For a second chance share this give away on your facebook page.
For a third chance, follow me on twitter and share this give away on twitter.


I will draw for the prize on Friday, November 25th.  

This prize has been provided by Betty Crocker and MyBlogSpark and I was not paid to share this give away with you.

NEW RECIPE for Pretzel Bouquet

 What better bouquet to give to someone than a HK Anderson Pretzel bouquet.  Just melt chocolate, dip pretzel and sprinkle with decor.  I used Sprinkles and Heath Toffee Bits.  They are beautiful and delicious.  This is an awesome gift to give someone or a fun centerpiece for your table. Someone grabs one every time they walk by!         

If you love pretzels like my family does, you will absolutely love HK Anderson Pretzels.  We recently were blessed to receive a sample box of several of their pretzels to try and to share our opinion with you.  I also want to share one of my favorite recipes with you.
HK Anderson believes snacking can be delicious AND wholesome... the way it used to be. Using healthy ingredients that also provide great taste, they strive to bring delicious and wholesome alternatives to our snacking choices. Healthy families promote healthy communities and ultimately a healthy America. Sound simple? It is, just like their products: simple and satisfying.

Here is what we thought.  First of all we tasted the Peanut Butter Filled Nuggets.  My husband LOVED them.  He is a big peanut butter fan and these had the perfect amount of peanut butter for the size of the pretzel.  He said it was a burst of goodness inside the salty pretzel nugget.  He ate the whole bag.  My son Marshall's favorite were the Honey Wheat Braided Twists.  He liked the way they looked and how crunchy they were.  Plus, it was a bonus that they were wheat he said.  My favorite were the Double Baked Butter Balls....if you know me, you understand...anything with butter..yummy.  I loved the shape and they were crunchy and fun.  They would be great in a snack mix because of their flavor and the shape is so cool.

That left the Salty Stix.  With those I made my FAMOUS pretzel snack mix and they were enjoyed by all.

That is the recipe I am going to share with you now.  I encourage you to get some of these pretzels.  I know you will love them.  And remember, they are baked, not fried to make them even healthier for you.  Isn't that exciting?  Over the holidays, there are many recipes that call for pretzels.  Snack mixes, cookies, salads and so on and so forth.  Why not use HK Anderson pretzels to make that treat just a little bit healthier and a lot better taste?  You can find out more about their products at www.hkanderson.com .  Go there and check them out.  My Wal-mart, Staples, and Big Lots carry them.

Delicious Snack Pretzels

2 - 1 lb bags HK Anderson Salty Stix Pretzels

2 pkg. of Hidden Valley Ranch Dry Dressing

2 cups canola oil

1 tsp. - 1 tbsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. - 1 tbsp. cayenne pepper

1.  Mix seasonings with the oil and put in 2 gallon size zipper bag.  Add pretzels and shake well to coat all the pretzels.

2.  Place pretzels on large baking sheet and bake at 225 degrees for 2 hours, stirring every 15 - 20 minutes to evenly cook.  Turn off oven and let sit for 1 hour.  Place in storage container to keep fresh.  

My family jokingly calls these "cocaine" pretzels because you get addicted and can't stop eating them.  They are so good and I know you'll love them.  ENJOY!!!

 

FAMILY TACO FIESTA

WE HAVE A WINNER... MINDIE HILTON  Contact me within 24 hours to claim your prize!! How would you like to have a great family fun night.  My family just recently had a fiesta and used these cute new dishes and some delicious Old El Paso products.  You can win an Old El Paso “Family Night” prize pack which includes a packet of original Old El Paso Taco Seasoning, a Cactus Chip & Dip Serving dish, a set of 3 Fiesta Chili Pepper serving dishes and a $10 gift card to purchase your taco fixings.

Why not set aside time at least once a month for “Taco Night?” Old El Paso offers a variety of seasonings, sides, sauces, and meal kits as simple solutions for a night of catching up with the family over a delicious taco dinner. To satisfy your Mexican style cravings, the Old El Paso® line up of products includes chilies, dinner kits, dips and sides, enchilada sauce, refried beans, seasoning mixes, shells, taco sauce and salsa. The Old El Paso taco seasoning mix selection includes flavors like Burrito, Cheesy Taco, Chili, Fajita, Taco, Mild Taco and even a seasoning with 40% less sodium. For a fun twist on Taco Night, be sure to try one of the delicious recipes below. Double Layer Tacos Old El Paso Favorite Recipe! Layered taco shells and tortillas create the "double" in beef- and bean-stuffed tacos. Chicken Ranch Tacos Need a new idea for a 30-minute dinner? Here's a twist on ta cos using precooked chicken. To keep your family laughing at the dinner table, have some fun with El Tacodor™, the world’s only Family Taco Game. With El Tacodor, your family can share a special night at home by challenging one another to quick fire trivia, wordplay and pantomime. Visit www.ElTacodor.com today to download instructions, a score card, and a challenge sheet for even more fun on Family Taco Night! Visit Old El Paso for news and great tips, recipes and more. Take a minute to share family fiesta photos and videos from Family Taco Nights on the El Tacodor Family Spotlight! In addition, you can visit http://www.myblogspark.com/uc/main/b069/to download a printable coupon for $0.60 off any two Old El Paso products today! Send me a photo of your family fiesta night and get 5 entries into the drawing for this prize package.  You must be a follower on my blog and post once to tell me you are a follower for one entry.  You can earn additional entries by blogging, tweeting, and posting this on facebook.  Be sure to list each of these in a different comment for each one to count.  So that is 8 ways you can be signed up for a great prize. Drawing will be held on November 21st, so don't hesitate to share this and get your name in. Old El Paso provided me with these products, information and  giveaway through MyBlogSpark.

Sciabica'sOlive Oil and Making a Difference

I got the privilege of trying 

Sciabica's California Unfiltered Fresh Pressed Oil of the Olive

100% Extra Virgin

Sevillano Variety, Fall Harvest 2010 Pressing

and 

Manzanillo Variety, Fall Harvest 2010 Pressing

Let me tell you something I discovered.  There is a difference between the Olive Oil you purchase at your supermarket and this Fresh Pressed Oil of the Olive from Sciabica's.  I have tested the two varieties listed above this post and want you to be sure that you visit their web site and or facebook page and see all the wonderful different varieties of Olive Oil they have.  I have included a recipe from their facebook page using the garlic oil and I have to try that as well.  This would be a delicious thing to make on a cold fall day.  How about for a football game or to take to a tailgating party?  Please check it out at http://www.sciabica.com.

Large Soft Garlic Pretzels
Recipe found on page 155 in Gemma Sciabica's Popular Recipes Cookbook.
(Makes 12 to 15)

1 tablespoon dry yeast
1/2 cup water, lukewarm
1 egg
1/4 cup Sciabica's Extra Virgin Garlic Olive Oil
3 cups flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt

In large mixing bowl, add yeast, ¼ cup flour, water and 1 tablespoon sugar, let stand about 10 minutes.
Stir in egg and olive oil. Add remaining ingredients, stir to blend.
Knead dough on lightly floured surface. Place back in bowl, cover, let rise about 30 minutes.
On floured surface, cut dough into 12 to 15 pieces. Roll into ropes ½ inch in diameter and about 18 inches long.
Form into pretzel shape. Place on greased baking sheets. Brush tops with egg white, sprinkle with coarse salt or caraway seeds.
Bake in 350 degree oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Variation:
For a chewier pretzel, drop pretzel into a pan of boiling water. When dough floats to top of water, remove to greased baking sheet.
Brush tops with egg white, sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake until golden.

Delicious Dishes By Debbie Celebrates her 100th follower!!!

Big thanks to Amber Wigal Parsons for being my 100th follower.  Thank you so much for joining and I am going to send you a special prize!!!  Congratulations.  I'll tell you all about it soon!

Do you love Wine Country Cooking?? You'll love this new cookbook and you can WIN ONE along with delicious Progresso's Panko Bread Crumbs.

Our lucky winner is #5, Donna!!  Congratulations.  You have 24 hours from 8:00 p.m. on 11/16 to claim your prize.  you are going to LOVE THIS!!!

I just received Chef Michael Chiarello's BOTTEGA cookbook.  It is a collection of Bold Italian Flavors from the Heart of California's Wine Country and I can honestly say that it is one of the nicest cookbooks I own. 
From snacks to dessert, this cookbook covers it all.  It has simple to follow gourmet recipes that will turn you into an expert at Chef Michael's cooking.

Bottega is one of  Napa Valley's most highly regarded restaurants and after seeing this cookbook, I am dying to go there.  However, these recipes are made for the home cook to be able to create dishes that look and taste like the originals at the restaurant.  Stories about the recipes come right along with the recipe itself and that makes this extra special.  

The chef´s secret is out - panko is in! A longtime secret of Japanese cuisine, panko is now a pantry staple for creating perfect crispiness in any dish. This October, Lemon Pepper will join the ranks of Progresso´s line of panko bread crumbs, which includes Original and Italian flavors.

"Panko has been a major part of some of my best crunchy dishes for years," says Chef Chiarello. "It´s exciting to bring those dishes home, where some of the best dining memories are made. To me that´s what cooking is all about - sharing meals with your friends and family, and the memories you get to keep for a lifetime."

Additionally, be sure to check out the Progresso's Wine & Dine with Chef Michael Chiarello Sweepstakes. Now through December 31st, participants can enter for the chance to win a trip for two to Napa Valley to attend the Spring Bud Break Party, an annual dinner and wine tasting event taking place on May 7, 2011. In addition to two tickets to the party, the grand prize also includes roundtrip airfare and hotel accommodations. Visit www.progressobroth.com for the sweepstakes rules and entry form.
Be sure to sign up for my giveaway of the Panko Breadcrumbs and this AUTOGRAPHED cookbook.
You can sign up by making a comment that you are a follower of this blog and tell me about a dish you use with Progresso Lemon Pepper Panko.
2nd chance by posting this on Facebook and leaving a comment that you did so.
3rd chance by posting on twitter and leaving a comment that you did so.
4th chance by posting this on your blog and leaving me the link where it is posted.
So you have 4 chances to win this great prize package.  I was given one myself by General Mills and  MyBlogSpark for sharing this great prize package with you.
The drawing for this prize will be held on November 15th, so get your comments in quick!!!
Random.org will be my method for determining the winner.

Check out this new Hor D-Oeuvres Cookbook I've found!!!

I recently received three totally different cookbooks and I love each one of them for different reasons.  One is for appetizers, the other for wonderful Chef from Napa Valley, and the third is a cookie party cookbook.  Let me tell you about them and I know if you love cookbooks, you'll want to order one or all of them.

The First is called :  Tastefully Small Savory Bites and was written by Kim Hendrickson.
This cookbook is a collection of Easy, Sophisticated Hors D'Oeuvres For Every Occasion.

Everyone loves an hors d’oeuvre. Beauty, flavor, and novelty, all packed into a small bite, are what give a good “appetizer” its name. This collection of over fifty original morsels, from Wild Mushroom Rugelach to Thai Shrimp Baskets, Orange Pecan Brie Cups, and Country Pâté Truffles, gives you the know-how to dazzle even the most discerning guest. Step-by-step instructions, vibrant color photos, and lovely watercolor illustrations make the most dramatic dishes easy. Every recipe includes both bite-size and full-size versions and variations. Nearly every item can be made either all or partly in advance, giving you more time with your guests.
Whether for a cocktail party, buffet, or afternoon tea, Savory Bites is your complete source for entertaining, including chapters on vegetable canapés, “naked canapés” (simple biscuits and crackers), and basic guidelines for a successful event. For a sure case of love at first bite, make it Tastefully Small. http://www.salviapress.com/savory_bites.html

One of the recipes I really enjoyed that was simple and quick is the PECAN MOUNDS.
Here is the recipe.

1 1/2 c. pecans
1/4 c. egg whites (2 large egg whites)
1 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.  Grind pecans in a food processor or spice grinder to generate 1 cup of ground nuts.  Don't over process: you want ground pecans, not pecan butter.
Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl, with a rubber spatula to create a smooth batter.  Mound a kitchen teaspoonful onto baking sheets 1 - 2 inches apart (they will spread a bit).  Bake for 10 minutes.  Cool to firm up before removing. 

I would highly recommend this cookbook if you like wonderful appetizers.  It has some very unique recipes in it.


I was not paid for this review, but was given a copy of the cookbook to try. 

Thanksgiving Dishes - Aunt Nixie's Cranberry Salad

Thanksgiving will soon be here and I for one am very excited.  While I will not be making a big Thanksgiving dinner this year, I will be taking a dish to my brother's house.  I have decided to make a wonderful Cranberry Salad that my Aunt Nixie made so well.  She shared the recipe with me before she passed away and I beg you all to make this dish.  It will be so popular at the Thanksgiving table.  It's so delicious and easy to make.

It's of course the pink dish at the table.  It has apples, walnuts and cranberries in it and it is so yummy.  You can also put it in a mold and flip it over to make a beautiful presentation.  I think the children would love this as well as the adults.  So give it a try and I think it will become a Thanksgiving staple that is requested year after year.

Aunt Nixie's Cranberry Salad
1 can cranberry sauce
1 can whole cranberry sauce
2 c. boiling water
2 tbsp. lemon or orange juice
2 pkgs. (3 oz. each) strawberry jello
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. mayonnaise
2 c. diced apple, peeled
1/2 c. chopped walnuts

1.  Melt cranberry sauces over medium heat.  Drain, reserving liquid and berries. 
2.  Mix together cranberry liquid, boiling water, and jello.  Stir until jello is dissolved. 
3.  Add juice and salt.  Chill until mixture mounds slightly on a spoon. 
4.  Add mayonnaise, beat until smooth and fold in the cranberries, apples and nuts.
5.  Pour into a 2 quart mold and chill until set.

I make this a day or two ahead of time and it keeps very well.  This will serve 12 people easily.
Enjoy and happy fall!

Check out Gourmet Mom on the Go

Hey everyone, Gourmet Mom On The Go, my friend Mandy, is having an "eggstra" special giveaway on her blog. Go and check it out.
"Win an Eggcelent Prize Pack from @IncredibleEggs over at @GourmetMom! http://ow.ly/32kUx"
And another giveaway she is having is from Lawrys.  Check it out also.

Big Giveaway and Baking Apple Pies For Fall

Hi wonderful followers!!!  Hope you are enjoying fall as I am.  I have been watching and listening to many of you tell of going to the pumpkin patch, sitting around a campfire and rejoicing because the beautiful season of fall has arrived.  I've been sent magnificant photos of the changing colors of the trees and the mountainsides. 

My friend Lori C. and your fellow follower from Franklin, NC sent me these as she was on her way to Ashville this weekend.

Her daughter, Caity.  Her beautiful hair is the same color as the red leaves.

I am reminded of God's goodness as I view these awesome photos.  Thanks Lori for sharing.  Now I want to share something special with you from Pillsbury.  Since it's fall and apple pie season, Pillsbury wants to graciously give one of our followers a prize package.  Check it out.....

Lori C.  you are the winner of this apple pie giveaway.  Please contact me within 24 hours to claim your prize!!

They are going to give you the "Apple" package if you win the giveaway on my blog.  you will receive a pyrex pie dish, Pillsbury Pie Crusts, an apple kitchen timer, measuring cup set, apple corer and wedger, an apple cutting board and a Pillsbury pot holder.  Isn't it so cute?  So in order to win this you'll have to be randomly chosen after posting your comments below this announcement by clicking on the word comments.
You have three chances to win.  1.  Become a follower and tell me that you follow this blog.  If you are already a follower say so. 2.  Tweet about this giveaway and give others the opportunity to join and sign up.  http://deliciousdishesbydebbie.blogspot.com/2010/10/baking-apple-pies-for-fall.html  3.  Share this link on Facebook with your friends.  I will have one bonus entry opportunity. Send me a beautiful fall scene photo or a photo of you making or eating an apple pie and I'll count you in one more time.
Sounds like a challenge to me!  How about you?  I will choose a winner on October 31st, Halloween Day.  It will be my and Pillsbury's treat to one lucky winner!!  Thanks for following!

Come along on our journey as we celebrate the apple harvest season.
What better way to celebrate than taking your family to visit a local apple orchard to pick fruit. Then, take those delicious apples home and bake the quintessential favorite - Apple Pie! It´s so easy when you start with Pillsbury® Refrigerated Pie Crusts, which deliver the look and taste of homemade without the time and stress of making a crust from scratch.
To celebrate all that apple harvest brings, Pillsbury is encouraging families to join in the fun in a number of ways this fall.

VISITING AN APPLE ORCHARD
To pick the best apples for your pie, gather the family for a road trip to the local apple orchard to savor the flavors of fall. Not sure which orchard is closest to you? Log onto tasteofhome.com/appleorchards to find a list of orchards that are planning Love the Pie! baking demonstration events across the country. While there, you can learn pie baking tips and ideas from State Fair Pie Baking Champions, and pick up recipes and participate in other orchard activities.

The best part of baking an apple pie is the memories you make with your family. Don´t forget to capture photos and videos of your entire adventure from your apple orchard visit to baking the pie at home. Share your photos with me or post to  Pillsbury´s "Love the Pie" Facebook page too! Join Pillsbury on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lovethepie and follow them on Twitter at www.twitter.com/love_the_pie.

In addition, you can visit Pillsbury.com/pie to download a printable coupon for $0.50 off a package of Pillsbury Pie Crusts today!

BAKING APPLE PIES TOGETHER

After your orchard visit, get the family involved in making pies and other treats together. Pillsbury Pie Crusts are an easy base for your favorite warm apple treats. Simply unroll into a pie plate, fill with your favorite variety of sliced apples and filling, and bake! From orchard to oven, Pillsbury Pie Crusts make apple pie baking simple with delicious results.
Here are a few delicious recipes to help inspire your readers to create delicious, homemade apple pies!

•Perfect Apple Pie is the model of a classic dessert - a beautiful double-crust creation with sugary cinnamon, nutmeg and a splash of lemon juice. So easy to make, this recipe is great for beginner pie bakers looking for impressive results.
•Festive Apple-berry Pie is the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a gorgeous color palette of golden apples and dark red cranberries. Use frozen cranberries to make this dish even more quick and easy!
•Topsy-Turvy Apple Pie combines two classics - apple and pecan. Invert the plate to reveal a gorgeous pecan topping. This is a dessert that both apple and pecan pie fans will "flip over".
•Easy Apple Pie Foldover is a great solution for keeping the kids happy; a simple mixture of apples and brown sugar folded inside a golden brown baked Pillsbury pie crust. With four servings, it´s a modestly sized apple treat that is kid-friendly to make, and eat.
•Cinnamon-Apple Pie with Caramel-Pecan Sauce truly harvests all of autumn´s bounty in a clever presentation. Ready in just under an hour - each slice is topped off with a luscious blend of butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, pecans, whipping cream and vanilla for a saucy treat.

For even more delicious pie ideas throughout the year visit Pillsbury.com/pie for fun and easy recipes to satisfy every season.
IN THE ORCHARD WITH ACTRESS JENNIE GARTH!

Actress and busy mom, Jennie Garth, is joining Pillsbury this fall to celebrate apple harvest season. She will share tips and ideas for dressing up apple pies and making kid-friendly treats that satisfy kids after a busy day at school. Footage of Jennie in the apple orchard, along with photos and other information is available for you to use on your own blog, and can be accessed at ="http://www.reporterville.com/love_the_pie__fall_2010">http://www.reporterville.com/love_the_pie__fall_2010.

These products, coupon, prize pack, information, and giveaway offer have all been provided by Pillsbury through MyBlogSpark.


I have not been paid by Pillsbury to post this giveaway.  The opinions are my own. 

New Give-a-way Starting Today!! Spread A Little Joy Prize Package

THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED:  The winners are Lady Nann, Perri Pender, and The Cake Lady.
This was chosen by Random.org and was fairly done!
I am always trying to find wonderful products to share with you all and on top of that I want you to try them as well.  So, along comes Philadelphia Cream Cheese with a great prize package for you. I think when you spread on the Philadelphia Cream Cheese, you truly are Spreading A Little Joy. I know that you think winning is so much fun and I want you to win....so you can get this wonderful cookbook and a whole package of prizes by becoming a follower of my blog and making a comment telling me that you are a follower and what your favorite recipe with Philadelphia Cream Cheese is!
The prize package includes:
(1) “Spread a Little Joy” PHILADEPLPHIA Cookbook, one (1): PHILADELPHIA apron, two (2) PHILADELPHIA product coupons, one (1) PHILADELPHIA spatula set (Approximate retail value: $50)

Philadelphia Cream Cheese has a soft place in my heart since the Real Women of Philadelphia contest.  I have been able to truly see how versatile Philly Cream Cheese really is. Did you know that they have both a fat free and reduced-fat version?
I have this Philly cookbook and it has beautiful upscale photography and quality paper stock, the cookbook is a collection of 70 simple and delicious PHILADELPHIA recipes, including delicious appetizers, entrees, sides and desserts – perfect for entertaining guests!

TO ENTER:


•Just leave a comment telling me about your favorite recipe made with Philadelphia Cream Cheese.

You can earn 2 extra entries by posting this to your facebook and your twitter  by sharing this link: (Check this out  http://deliciousdishesbydebbie.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-give-way-starting-today-spread.html) and posting that in separate comments on my blog.


Yes, it is that simple! This amazing cookbook, stylish apron, handy spatulas and money saving coupons could all be yours just by leaving me a little comment and sharing your favorite Philly recipe.


Good luck!

“I was one of ten bloggers selected by PHILADELPHIA to host a Cookbook promotion giveaway. My opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments. Kraft Foods is providing the prizes for this giveaway at no cost to me. This giveaway is not administered or sponsored by Kraft Foods or its affiliates, but solely by Debbie Fabre.”

Spotlight On A Wonderful Cook, Decorator, and Lady: Shannon Imlay

I wanted to share the talents of a wonderful friend I've made on the Real Women of Philadelphia website and community.  Her name is Shannon Imlay and she is from Colorado.  Here in her own words is a little about Shannon:

I've been married for 28 years to my husband Mark, I have two wonderful children 18 and 21. My favorite thing is being a mom and I'm so glad God Blessed me with my children.

Last year I finally went back to school to get my certification in Floral Design (something I'd been wanting to do for a long time).I recently started my own business as a Floral Designer/Party Planner/Party Decorator Shanonigins.

Shannon has so many talents, but most of all she is a woman of great integrity and thoughtfulness.  Shannon has allowed me to share some photos of a beautiful table scape she designed for fall.  She also created the wonderful goodies shown here as well as put together the beautiful flower arrangements.  I knew you would enjoy these things and I am also including her recipes so you can re-create the tasty treats.  Enjoy and thank you Shannon for sharing your talent and love with so many.  You can follow Shannon on Youtube or on the Real Women of Philadelphia.

Her Total Package and Table Scape



Spooky Carmel Apples



Meringue Bones

  



Marshmallow Frankensteins



Marshmallow Frankensteins

You'll need the following ingredients:

marshmallows

pretzel sticks

mini choco-chips

green sugar sprinkles

corn syrup

white and black frosting

Break pretzel sticks into two pieces and put them in each side of marshmallow to make the "bolts".

Lightly brush marshmallows with corn syrup and sprinkle sugar evenly on marshmallows and pretzels.

Use writing decorator tip and draw on hair with black icing. (You can buy this in a tube)

Use writing decorator tip and draw on eyes and mouth with white icing and place a mini choco-chip in center of each eye.

Caramel Apples with Ghost

You'll need the following:

apples

caramels

milk chocolate chips

truffles

white chocolate

black icing tube

long wooden dowels or sticks

Wash apples well and put truffle on top of apple.  Stick dowel through the truffle and then the apple.

Melt caramel and dip apple in the caramel and let set up and dry.  Melt choco chips and dip apple in the chocolate and let set up and dry.  Melt white chocolate and spoon over truffle to make ghost.  Make eyes and mouth on ghost with small tip on black icing tube.

Hope you enjoy these wonderful recipes from Shannon and if you have any questions, please post a comment and I will be sure to ask her or answer your questions myself.  Happy Fall.



My First Give-A-Way

This Contest Has Ended...thank you Chiquita Smoothies and all who entered.  You have 24 hours to contact me with your address to claim your prize!
Winners are:

#9 Jendiggy
#41 Saturdaynightfever




 There is a new product on the market called Chiquita Smoothies.  They are so delicious and easy to prepare.  I have been sent some free coupons for you to try the yummy treats and some great T-Shirts that say Mango Tango.  They are so CUTE.  Here is some information about the smoothies and where you can go to find out more.  

Chiquita Smoothies come as a frozen concentrate (like frozen juices), and just need to be blended with ice and water to make a refreshing and delicious smoothie treat!  The Smoothies are all-natural, dairy-free, gluten-free, with no added sugar, and 100% DV Vitamin C.  Each serving also counts as a serving of fruit!  Chiquita™ Smoothies can be found in your grocer's frozen juice aisle and are available in four great flavors: Strawberry Banana, Mixed Berry, Peach Mango, and Banana Colada.  For more information about our products, please visit: www.chiquitasmoothie.com

 

I want to send you a package containing a VIP Free Product coupon, discount coupons, and  a cool Chiquita™ Smoothie t-shirt! All you need to do is become a follower and leave me a comment saying which flavor you would like to try and you will be entered into the contest.  You may have two extra entries if you follow me on twitter and tweet about the contest http://deliciousdishesbydebbie.blogspot.com/2010/10/our-first-give-way-woo-hoo.html and come back and leave me a message saying you've done so and become a follower on Facebook and share the contest on your post.         

                                                                                          

Contest ends on October 15th.  Winners will be announced on October 16th.  I have 2 packages to give out. I was not paid by Chiquita to post this giveaway and the opinions of the product are my own.
Click on comments right below this to add your comments.

Fall Fun and Food, Yes, It really is that time of year!!

Hey all!!

 Be watching the blog on October 2nd for some fun fall surprises.  I will begin my very first give-a-way which is being sponsored by Chiquita Smoothies!!  I will have coupons for some free products, some really cool t-shirts and some money saving coupons too.  I'll be asking you to share the blog with someone and the person who gets the most people to join my blog will win a prize and I will have some random drawings also.  So get excited and start thinking of who you could ask to join.  All they have to do is mention your name to have it count for you.  I'll be sharing some great fall party ideas and introducing you to a couple friends of mine who are terrific decorators and cooks....so get ready and get excited......Mark your calendars for OCTOBER 2nd and be sure to come back and see what I have up my sleeve.  Happy Fall!!! 

RED HOT DATE NIGHT SUNDAE

When was the last time you had a "Red Hot Date"?  Here is a new creation I want to share with you that will make you want to have a "Red Hot Date" every day of the week.  You'll begin by using the following ingredients:

1/2 c. vanilla ice cream
1 brownie
2 T. hot fudge
2 T. chopped dates
3 snack size Nestle crunch bars
5 atomic red hot balls
2 T. whipped cream

Begin making your sundae by breaking 2 of your Nestle Crunch Bars into small pieces. Next, crush 4 of the atomic red hot balls into small pieces by using a hammer or meat tenderizer.  I put them in a heavy duty ziplock bag to keep them together.  Mix the dates, crunch bars & red hots (reserve about a teaspoon of red hots for topping) into the vanilla ice cream. Assemble your sundae beginning with a brownie (I like to break it up, but not necessary), hot fudge, ice cream, more hot fudge, whipped topping,  and sprinkles of broken red hots.  Top it off with a single solid red hot and a mini crunch bar.  There you have your red hots, and your dates and it's all delicious and fun. 

Lindsay and Laura at Dinner!

Here we are in Paula's Kitchen....Heaven!

Exciting News

Hi followers!

In Paula Deen's Kitchen with one of her aprons!!

Just wanted to let you know I will be moving and am very busy packing.  You wouldn't believe how much junk I have acquired over the past 8 years in this house.  Don't know where we are going yet, but it might even be near you.  I want to share a few new photos with you from my trip to Savannah.  Hope you enjoy.  Be blessed! 

Recipe of the week.....Stuffed Shells

This is a recipe for some wonderful Stuffed Shells. I was able to make this in less than an hour and it really will wow you even though it is so easy. Here is a list of the ingredients:

3 cups of cooked hamburger meat ( I put some onions and green peppers in it when I cook it)
1 cup parmesan cheese
1 cup three cheese blend, mexican or italian
1/4 c. chopped green onions
1/4 c. fresh chopped parsley (use 2 t. if dried)
8 oz cream cheese
1 egg
1/2 box pasta shells
1/2 jar pasta or spaghetti sauce
1/4 c. parmesan cheese for topping
5 slices provolone cheese

1. Cook hamburger and pasta according to package directions. Put pasta in cold water to keep from sticking together.
2. Mix hamburger with your cheese, onions, parsley, cream cheese and egg.
3. Top with spaghetti sauce and additional parmesan cheese and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.
4. Remove from oven and place provolone slices on top and return long enough to melt cheese.

Serve and enjoy.
Makes enough for 4 - 6 depending on their appetites!!
I like to serve with salad, garlic bread and corn. Makes a yummy meal. And why don't you try one of my pies for dessert....You can't miss with that. :)

The Morning Blend Show

Next Wednesday, July 20, I will be appearing on the Fox Morning Blend Show in the Ft. Myers, FL area.  The show airs from 8 - 9 am.  Please tune in and see what I have up my sleeve.  I am going to share about my experience at the Real Women of Philadelphia cookoffs and Savanna, GA.

Dessert Finalists Cookoff Time

This video will always be near and dear to my heart.  It is part of the actual cookoff with the dessert girls of which I was one.  These girls have become my close friends and I love them.  Please enjoy as we share our hearts.

Real Women of Philadelphia Storm Savannah

As many of you know I was just in Savannah, Georgia with 15 other finalists in the Real Women of Philadelphia, which was a casting for four new On-line Home Cooks representing Paula Deen, Kraft, and Philadelphia Cream Cheese.  I had the time of my life and can not tell you how the experience has changed my life.  Even though I was not selected as one of the final four, I could not have been treated any better or enjoyed Savannah more.  I found it to be a beautiful city and the history is so rich and interesting.  I am so anxious to tell you all about the trip, step by step and minute by minute and I hope you will enjoy the stories as much as I enjoyed making the memories.  In the mean time, here are some wonderful photos of the trip and I am ready to share another one of my very special dessert recipes with you....I know you are going to love this one and it is over the top delicious.  Love to all who prayed for me, rooted me on and supported me during this wonderful time of my life.  I know the best is yet to come. 

Dessert Week and Me at Sweetbay Supermarket

This week has been super exciting.  I have been able to make three desserts for the Real Women of Philadelphia cooking contest and I actually got to make one at my local supermarket Sweetbay.
I had a blast and hello to everyone who saw me there.  I learned so much this week and got to pass out information about Paula Dean and Kraft and the journey we are taking.  Simply Yummmmy is how I would describe this recipe. Meaning that other than the fact that it is so easy anyone could easily make this pie, it is equally as delicious. I was able to take these simple ingredients and prepared them in front of a live audience at my local major supermarket. At the same time, I handed out my recipe cards with the recipe, web site and information about the RWOP contest, Paula Dean, and Kraft Foods on them. I explained that Philadelphia Cream Cheese is not just for bagels anymore!!! No cooking, no heating up the kitchen, a perfect dessert. It was a super experience and so many people were able to find out a little bit about the history of Philadelphia Cream Cheese, just how easy and delicious it is to use in a recipe and how Kraft Foods intends to go digital. It was so much fun to execute this dish in front of the audience and show them how Philadelphia Cream Cheese can be added to transform any old style recipe into a modern day marvel that will make them look like a "Internet Food Network Star" when they serve the easy to prepare dish. I presented the pie to the manager and staff who were on duty and overall the entire event was a huge success. Everyone wanted a taste of that pie.  Did you know that Philadelphia Cream cheese has been part of America since 1872.  The cheese adopted the brand name Philadelphia in 1880, after a city known for excellent food back then.