(Family Features) With 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.

Decorate

Strings 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 Gift

If 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 Snack

Freshly 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 Mix

Yield: 2 quarts

• 2 quarts popped popcorn
• butter-flavored nonstick cooking spray
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar substitute
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black or white pepper

1. Preheat oven to 325 F.
2. Spread popcorn on baking sheet and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
3. In small bowl, combine sugar substitute, ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and freshly ground pepper; sprinkle evenly over popcorn.
4. Spray again with nonstick cooking spray and toss to coat evenly.
5. Bake 7 minutes and serve warm.

Easy, Elegant Holiday Popcorn

Yield: 8 cups

• 8 cups popped popcorn
• 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• candy sprinkles

1. On serving platter, spread popcorn in thin layer.
2. Over double boiler or in microwave, melt milk chocolate chips. Drizzle over popcorn.
3. Over double boiler or in microwave, melt white chocolate chips. Drizzle over popcorn.
4. Sprinkle candy sprinkles over warm, chocolate-coated popcorn. Allow drizzles to set until firm.

White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Bark

Yield: 1 pound

• 5 cups popped popcorn
• 12 ounces white chocolate baking chips, chopped white chocolate or white candy coating
• 1 cup crushed hard candy peppermints

1. Cover baking pan with foil or wax paper; set aside.
2. Place popcorn in large bowl; set aside.
3. In double boiler over barely simmering water, melt chocolate, stirring until smooth, or melt according to package directions.
4. Stir in crushed peppermints after chocolate is melted. Pour chocolate mixture over popcorn mixture and stir to coat. Spread onto prepared pan; cool completely.
5. When chocolate is cooled and set, break into chunks for serving.
6. Store in airtight container at room temperature.

Cranberry Popcorn Balls

Yield: 18 balls

• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce, slightly mashed
• 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
• 1/2 cup cranberry juice
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 5 quarts unsalted popped popcorn

1. In 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.
2. Mixture will bubble in pan; watch to keep from boiling over.
3. Pour slowly onto hot popcorn and mix until well-coated.
4. Let stand 5 minutes, or until mixture can easily be formed into balls.
5. Butter hands and form into 3-inch balls.

(Family Features) The winter months provide many occasions to celebrate, and no celebration is complete without tasty treats. A perfect partner for a broad variety of flavors, popcorn is a versatile pantry staple that can be served plain or as a better-for-you addition to seasonal snacks.

With no artificial additives or preservatives, light and airy popcorn is naturally low in fat and calories, non-GMO and gluten free, making it a sensible option to satisfy cravings for something savory, sweet and just about every flavor in-between. Plus, whole-grain popcorn has energy-producing carbohydrates and fiber, which can help keep you satisfied longer.

As a way to honor one of America’s oldest and most beloved snack foods, National Popcorn Day on Jan. 19 is a perfect opportunity to pop up a bowl to enjoy with loved ones or create whole-grain culinary masterpieces like fragrant and flavorful Jamaican Jerk Popcorn, which features hot pepper, spices and jerk butter to help you warm up from the inside out. Or consider another tasty snack option like Furikake Popcorn, a lighter recipe exploding with the flavors of sesame, nori and a Japanese spice blend.

You can combine favorite flavors for movie night with Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Popcorn, which is perfect for settling in on a snowy winter’s eve, and an option like Rocky Road Popcorn Clusters, featuring chocolate, marshmallows and nuts, are perfect for sharing with loved ones after an evening meal.

Find more fun, fluffy and flavorful recipes to celebrate everything winter has to offer at Popcorn.org.

Furikake Popcorn

Yield: 2-3 servings

Furikake Seasoning:

• 1 nori sheet, broken into pieces
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar

• 6 cups popped popcorn
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

1. To make furikake seasoning: In spice grinder or using mortar and pestle, grind nori with 1/2 tablespoon sesame seeds until finely ground. Transfer to small bowl; stir in remaining sesame seeds, salt and sugar.
2. In large bowl, toss popcorn with butter and furikake seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Tips: Use store-bought furikake seasoning and season to taste.
4. To toast sesame seeds: In small dry skillet over medium heat, cook sesame seeds 2-3 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Let cool completely before using.

Jamaican Jerk Popcorn

Yield: 4-6 servings

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 tablespoon minced, seeded scotch bonnet chili pepper
• 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 cups popped popcorn

1. In small saucepan, combine butter, chili pepper, lime zest, chili powder, thyme, allspice, pepper, ginger, garlic powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, onion powder and salt. Cook over low heat 3-5 minutes, or until butter melts and mixture is fragrant.
2. In large bowl, toss popcorn with spice mixture until evenly coated.

Tip: Omit scotch bonnet pepper and substitute 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, if preferred.

Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Popcorn

Yield: 6-8 servings (1 cup each)

• 1/4 cup nonfat Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves
• 1/8 teaspoon dried sage
• black pepper, to taste
• 12 cups air-popped popcorn
• 3/4 cup turkey pepperoni, cut into bite-size bits
• olive oil cooking spray

1. In small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, marjoram, basil, sage and pepper; mix well.
2. In large bowl, combine popcorn and turkey pepperoni; spray lightly with olive oil cooking spray.
3. Sprinkle popcorn and pepperoni with cheese mixture; toss to coat evenly.

Rocky Road Popcorn Clusters

Yield: 3 dozen

• 1 bag (6 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
• 4 cups popped popcorn
• 1 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows
• 3/4 cup chopped walnuts

1. In small microwave-safe bowl, heat chocolate chips in microwave on high 1 minute, until melted. Stir in vegetable oil.
2. In large bowl, add popcorn, marshmallows and walnuts. Pour melted chocolate over mixture, tossing to coat.
3. Drop mixture by tablespoonful onto wax paper-lined jellyroll pan.
4. Refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours, or overnight.

Source: Popcorn Board

(Family Features) Hearty snacks, seasonal sides, flavorful main dishes and tantalizing desserts all complement one another perfectly for holiday celebrations among loved ones. This year, when planning your menu, be sure to consider recipes that keep family and friends content from the moment they hang up their coats to the goodbye hugs.

These delicious options for a satisfying bread bowl, pumpkin spice potatoes, artfully glazed lamb chops and fresh apple pie can bring your guests running to the kitchen (and keep them there) as you celebrate all the season has to offer.

Find more recipes fit for holiday festivities at Culinary.net

Beckon Holiday Guests with a Bread Bowl

While your loved ones wait patiently for the main course to be served, hearty appetizers like bread bowls can keep appetites at bay. This Spinach-Ham Dip is the perfect combination of comforting and satisfying when served with bread cubes, crackers or tortilla chips for a warming snack ahead of the big meal.

To find more seasonal appetizer inspiration, visit Culinary.net.

Spinach-Ham Dip

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 package (10 ounces) frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1/4 pound ham, cubed
• 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 round bread loaf (16 ounces), unsliced

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. In medium bowl, blend ricotta cheese and sour cream until smooth. Add spinach, ham, Parmesan cheese and green onions; mix until blended.
3. Cut 1-2-inch diameter circle out of top of bread loaf. Reserve top. Remove bread inside loaf, leaving about 1 inch along sides. Pour cheese mixture into bread bowl. Replace top. Cover bread loaf in aluminum foil and bake 60 minutes, or until warmed through.
4. Take bread removed from inside bread bowl and cut into dipping sized chunks.
5. Remove bread from aluminum foil and place on platter. Scatter bread chunks around bread bowl to use for dunking in cheese sauce.

A Seasonal Side with a Tasty Twist

No matter what life may look like this holiday season, you can put a smile on loved ones’ faces with classic meals and sides that memories are made of.

You can use a traditional holiday ingredient, potatoes, to make easy yet delicious recipes like these Pumpkin Spice Scalloped Potatoes. Perfect for serving with your favorite main course, they’re a tasty twist on a classic sweet potato casserole.

Plus, they’re made with Little potatoes that come ready to use with no washing or peeling required, perfect for busy families during bustling holiday gatherings. Try them roasted, boiled, smashed or mashed in your favorite seasonal dishes. For a time-saving hack, use the slicer attachment in a food processor to evenly slice potatoes in minutes.

Visit littlepotatoes.com for more holiday recipe inspiration.

Pumpkin Spice Scalloped Little Potatoes

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 1/2 cups milk
• 1 1/2 pounds Terrific Trio Little Potatoes, 1/8-inch sliced, kept in water until ready to use
• 5 slices thick-cut bacon, sliced, cooked until crisp and drained
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons water
• 1 cup pecans, rough chopped

1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. In pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour and cook 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low then slowly add milk gradually, ensuring it is incorporated before adding more. Turn heat to medium-high and cook until thickened, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In bowl, add drained potatoes, sauce, bacon, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves. Season with salt and pepper, to taste; mix well.
4. In greased 8-by-11-inch baking dish, line potatoes on sides in desired pattern. Stuff extra bacon between potatoes from remains left in bowl. Pour extra sauce over potatoes.
5. Bake 60 minutes.
6. In small pot over medium-high heat, add brown sugar and water. Cook to melt sugar and allow to bubble, about 5 minutes. Add pecans; stir 2 minutes. Lay on parchment-lined baking sheet and allow to cool. Once cool, chop into pieces.
7. Remove potatoes from oven and sprinkle pecans over top.

Serve Up a Seasonal Treat

No seasonal gathering is complete without dessert, and quality baking during the holidays results in fresh favorites like Apple Pie.

Allspice, nutmeg and cinnamon add spice to this festive favorite while brown sugar adds a hint of caramel sweetness with a nutty, moist, subtle molasses flavor that’s ideal for use in desserts of all kinds. The trusted performance of an option like Domino sugar helps make this a recipe you can turn to when it’s time to savor the season.

Find more holiday dessert ideas to bring your family and friends together at dominosugar.com .

Apple Pie

Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8

• 1 prepared 9-inch double-crust pie pastry, divided
• 3/4 cup Domino Light Brown Sugar
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
• 2 pounds apples, cored, quartered and sliced
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice

1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Line 9-inch pie pan with half pastry then prick bottom and sides with fork.
2. In large saucepot, combine brown sugar, flour, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice and lemon zest. Add apples and toss to coat evenly. Slowly heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and apples begin to soften and cook down to about 6 cups.
3. Turn apple mixture into lined pie plate. Top with remaining pastry. Trim and flute edges with fork. Slit top crust to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature. Cover and refrigerate leftovers.

Add Color and Flavor to the Holiday Table

When a holiday celebration calls for a truly memorable meal, it’s a perfect opportunity to serve a dish that just might become a family favorite. Combining a seasonal staple like cranberries with naturally flavorful lamb could be your ticket to a newfound tradition.

These festive Cranberry Maple Glazed Grass-Fed Lamb Chops can brighten up your holiday table with an irresistible pop of red and deliciously pure New Zealand grass-fed lamb. New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most naturally raised beef and lamb, where the animals are allowed to roam and graze freely over lush green hills and pastures, resulting in a beautifully tender meat that tastes just as nature intended.

Visit beefandlambnz.com to learn more and find where to buy grass-fed meat for your holiday meals.

Cranberry Maple Glazed Grass-Fed Lamb Chops

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Glaze:

• 1 cup fresh or thawed cranberries
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 teaspoons orange zest
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• cracked black pepper

Lamb Chops:

• 8-10 New Zealand grass-fed lamb rib chops
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• olive oil

1. To make glaze: In small bowl, whisk cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. To make lamb chops: Pat lamb chops dry with paper towel.
3. In small bowl, whisk brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt and garlic powder.
4. Sprinkle dry rub on lamb chops and press mixture into meat.
5. In large skillet, heat thin layer olive oil over medium heat until drop of water sizzles in pan. Sear rib chops 2 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 140 F. Remove chops from pan and set aside.
6. Add glaze to pan and cook 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly until reduced by half.
7. Drizzle glaze over chops before serving.

Source: The Little Potato Company
Domino Golden Sugar
Beef + Lamb New Zealand

(Family Features) Filling the kitchen with plant-based ingredients is an easy way to nudge kids toward nutritious after-school snacks and make busy weeknight dinners as healthy as they are delicious.

When you consume foods that boost your energy and give your body the fuel it needs, you can expect to feel healthier, both physically and emotionally. In many cases the foods that deliver are plant-based, and you can create delicious and healthy meals while adhering to a plant-based eating plan.

Make Easy Substitutes
Having a vegetarian meal once a day is a great start, or even try “meatless Mondays” at home. Swap out ice cream and instead go for frozen blended bananas as an after-dinner treat. Try a nut- or grain-based milk in place of your normal dairy.

Make Gradual Changes
Drastically changing your eating habits can be challenging. Small, sustainable changes are easier to manage and simpler to implement. Even one change per day can lead to healthier eating, like swapping the meat in a normal sandwich for a plant-based protein, such as a salad made with chickpeas or lentils, for a quick and easy lunch.

Start Meal Planning
Meal planning can reduce the time you spend in the kitchen and cut the cost of your groceries while making plant-based eating easy. When you plan meals in advance, you can buy in bulk and do the prep work ahead of time, which means you can whip up tasty plant-based meals in minutes. Keep healthy staples on hand like vegan, cholesterol-free and trans fat-free Toufayan multi-grain pita bread. The pre-split pita is perfect to keep on hand and fill with your favorite plant-based ingredients for a quick meal or pair with hummus, chickpea salad or apples. Made with quality, wholesome ingredients, each bread is hearth-baked to a golden brown for a tasty, convenient and versatile complement to a wide range of plant-based foods. They’re easy to find in your local grocer’s deli section.

Get inspired to create family-friendly, plant-based dishes with these recipes and more at Toufayan.com.

Apple Pie Stuffed Pitas

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4

Filling:

• 4          green apples, peeled, cored and thinly sliced
• 1          teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2       teaspoon nutmeg
• 2          tablespoons plant-based butter
• 1/3       cup white sugar
• 3          tablespoons water
• 1          teaspoon cornstarch

Oat Crumble Topping:

• 1/2       cup flour
• 1/2       cup rolled oats
• 1/4       cup brown sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon cinnamon
• 1          tablespoon orange juice
• 1          pinch salt
• 2          tablespoons plant-based butter
• 4          Toufayan Multi-Grain Pita Bread

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. To make filling: In large saute pan over medium heat add apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, butter, white sugar, water and cornstarch. Cook apples down about 10 minutes until they begin to get gooey.
3. To make oat crumble topping: In medium bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, orange juice and salt. Cut in butter and mix until crumbs begin to form.
4. Cut pitas in half and line baking sheet. Fill one pita half with apple filling and lay on its side, being careful to not let apples fall out. Top with oat crumble. Repeat with remaining pitas.
5. Bake about 6 minutes. If desired, broil 1 minute for additional color.

Roasted Chickpea Cauliflower Sandwiches

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1          can chickpeas, roasted
• 1/4       teaspoon salt, plus additional, to taste, divided
• 1/8       teaspoon black pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided
• garlic salt, to taste
• 1          head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1/4       cup plant-based yogurt or sour cream
• 1/2       red pepper, diced
• 1/3       cup shredded carrots
• 1          cup corn kernels (optional)
• 1/4       teaspoon dill
• 1/2       teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4       teaspoon paprika
• 3          Toufayan Bakeries Multi Grain Pitas, halved
• parsley, for garnish

1. Preheat oven to 425 F.
2. Season chickpeas with salt, pepper and garlic salt, to taste. Roast chickpeas 40-45 minutes.
3. In bowl, mix chopped cauliflower; yogurt or sour cream, diced pepper; shredded carrots; corn, if desired; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon pepper; dill; garlic powder and paprika.
4. Once chickpeas are roasted, add to bowl and mix well. Spoon mixture into six pitas and garnish with parsley.

Source: Toufayan

(Family Features) Next time hunger calls in your home, turn to a filling family favorite: pasta. With a nearly endless variety of pasta types, sauce pairings and recipe ideas, the options are aplenty, and cooking is often a breeze.

Consider these pasta cooking tips from Rouxbe, an online culinary school training people of all abilities to become better, more confident cooks.

• Use a large, straight-sided pot with 6 quarts of water for every 1 pound of pasta. Bring to a boil, add 1 teaspoon of salt for each quart of water and stir to dissolve.
• Wait for rapidly boiling water before adding pre-made pasta then cook according to package instructions for al dente, which means the pasta offers a slight resistance. For stuffed or fresh pasta, aim for a gentle boil and cook 1-5 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water for use in sauces then drain (never rinse) your pasta.  
• Add pasta to your sauce; never the other way around. Pair thin pastas like angel hair with lighter sauces, seafoods, basil and light oils. Fettucine, penne and rigatoni complement spicy sausage, heavy creams and chunky ragu. When in doubt, spaghetti offers a versatile option.

Pasta is a natural fit for fresh veggies, and you can put your skills to the test with Pappardelle with Garden Vegetables or create Homemade Potato Gnocchi to freeze and enjoy later.

For more information, visit rouxbe.com.

Pappardelle with Garden Vegetables

Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 3-4

•             Salted water
• 3          tablespoons olive oil
• 3          tablespoons shallots or white onion, minced
• 2          cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4       teaspoon chili flakes
• 1          cup white wine
• 2          cups pappardelle noodles
• 3/4       cup vegetable stock
• 3          tablespoons capers (optional)
• 2          vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced in wedges
• 1          handful baby kale
• 1          fresh lemon, juice only
• 2          tablespoons butter (optional)
• sea salt, to taste
• freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1          handful fresh basil, torn

1. Bring large pot of salted water to boil.
2. In fry pan on medium-high heat, add olive oil and onions; saute 2 minutes. Lower heat slightly and add garlic and chile flakes. Saute on medium heat 2-3 minutes. Add white wine and deglaze pan. Cook 3 minutes. Remove from heat and keep warm until ready to add freshly cooked pasta.
3. In pot of boiling water, add pappardelle. Cook according to package instructions then drain.
4. Place fry pan back on medium heat. Add drained pasta; vegetable stock; capers, if desired; tomatoes; baby kale; and lemon juice. Add butter, if desired, and toss well. Cook 2-3 minutes, tossing occasionally, and season with salt and pepper, to taste, and fresh basil.
5. Toss again, remove from heat and serve.

Homemade Potato Gnocchi

Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 2-4

• 2          medium Yukon Gold or russet potatoes
• 3/4       teaspoon sea salt, divided
• 2          teaspoons water
• 1          cup all-purpose flour, divided, plus additional, for surface
• 1/4       teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/8       teaspoon white pepper
• 2          large egg yolks

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Place potatoes on sheet of foil, add 1/2 teaspoon salt and water; wrap. Bake 40 minutes, or until cooked through.
2. Peel potatoes while hot. Cut and rice potatoes. Let potatoes cool completely.
3. To make dough, sprinkle potatoes with flour. Aerate with bench scraper then add remaining salt, nutmeg and white pepper.
4. Break up egg yolks and pour over potatoes. Cover surface with flour. Continue cutting and gently lifting dough.
5. Test dough by squeezing gently; it shouldn’t stick. Add flour, if needed.
6. Shape dough into rectangle and fold several times, using fingertips to bring together. Flatten dough out until it reaches finger thickness. Sprinkle with flour and let rest 5-10 minutes.
7. Cut finger-width strips of dough and sprinkle strips with flour. Roll out each strip and cut ropes into 3/4-inch pieces. Separate slightly and flour well.
8. Fresh gnocchi can sit at room temperature 30 minutes before cooking.
9. To freeze: Place gnocchi on tray, making sure they aren’t touching. Once frozen, transfer to plastic freezer bag and freeze up to 2 months. Cook gnocchi from frozen and serve with desired sauce.

 Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Source: Rouxbe

(Family Features) With so many traditions and ways to celebrate the holiday season, the options are nearly endless for families looking to spend special moments together. One of the tastiest and most enjoyable activities you can engage in with family and friends is to team up and create sweet eats in the kitchen.

Whether you’re a chocolate lover or prefer traditional seasonal flavors like peppermint and gingerbread, these tasty, dairy-inspired treats from Milk Means More provide heartwarming ways to tingle your taste buds while bringing everyone together.

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding provides a sweet, fruity, hearty dessert while Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies combine chocolatey goodness with creamy cheesecake and peppermint. Or, for a classic holiday combination, you can turn to Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream.

Find more ways to celebrate the season with sweet eats at milkmeansmore.org.

Peppermint Cheesecake Brownies

Recipe courtesy of Sarah Bates of “The Chef Next Door” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 16

• Nonstick cooking spray

Cheesecake Batter:

• 8          ounces low-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/3       cup granulated sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2          eggs
• 1          tablespoon all-purpose flour

Brownie Batter:

• 1          cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2       cup cocoa powder
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1          cup granulated sugar
• 1/4       cup vegetable oil
• 1/4       cup milk
• 2          eggs
• 1          teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Topping:

• 1/2       cup peppermint baking pieces

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Coat 8-inch square baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
2. To make cheesecake batter: Place cream cheese in bowl of stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Add sugar and peppermint extract; beat well. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add flour and beat mixture until blended.
3. To make brownie batter: In medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder and salt until combined. In separate bowl, whisk sugar, oil, milk, eggs and vanilla until well combined. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until blended.
4. Pour brownie batter evenly into prepared pan. Carefully pour cheesecake batter over top, spreading evenly. Carefully swirl layers together using knife tip. Bake 20 minutes.
5. Sprinkle top of brownies with peppermint baking pieces and bake 10 minutes until brownies are set. Cool brownies completely in pan on wire rack before cutting into 16 squares.

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

Recipe courtesy of Kirsten Kubert of “Comfortably Domestic” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 65 minutes
Servings: 12

Pudding:

• 1          loaf Texas toast or day-old bread
• 1-2       tablespoons softened butter
• 1 1/2    cups fresh cranberries
• 6          eggs
• 3/4       cup granulated sugar
• 3 1/2    cups 2% milk
• 1          teaspoon freshly grated orange zest
• 1/4       cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4       cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 1/2    teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/8       teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 1/2    tablespoons coarse granulated sugar (optional)

Orange Custard Sauce:

• 3          egg yolks
• 1/4       cup granulated sugar
• 1          cup half-and-half
• 1/2       teaspoon freshly grated orange zest

1. To make pudding: Cut bread into bite-sized cubes. If bread is soft and fresh, place cubes on half sheet pan and let stand at room temperature overnight to dry out.
2. Preheat oven to 375 F.
3. Grease 13-by-9-by-2-inch baking dish with softened butter. Place bread cubes in prepared baking pan. Scatter cranberries over bread.
4. Beat eggs with sugar, milk, orange zest, orange juice, melted butter, vanilla and cinnamon until well blended. Pour evenly over bread and cranberries to coat. Sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. Bake 60-65 minutes, or until custard is set and edges of bread are browned.
5. To make orange custard sauce: In small saucepan, whisk egg yolks with sugar until lightened to pale yellow color, about 2 minutes. Stir half-and-half into mixture until combined. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, 15-20 minutes, or until sauce thickens enough to coat spoon. Stir orange zest into custard sauce.
6. Serve bread pudding with warm custard sauce over top.

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Whipped Vanilla Buttercream

Recipe courtesy of Megan Gundy of “What Megan’s Making” on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 20

Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2    cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2    tablespoons ground ginger
• 2          teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4       teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2       teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2    cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 1/2    cups granulated sugar
• 3          tablespoons molasses
• 4          large eggs
• 2          teaspoons vanilla extract

Whipped Vanilla Buttercream:

• 1          cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 2          teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4          cups powdered sugar
• 2-4       tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1          pinch salt
• cinnamon, for topping

1. Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and preheat oven to 350 F. Line muffin pan with cupcake liners. Set aside.
2. To make cupcakes: In medium bowl, whisk flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and salt.
3. In large bowl of stand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add molasses and beat until incorporated. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then beat in vanilla. Add flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Bake 30 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center cupcake comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Let cupcakes cool 10 minutes then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
5. To make whipped vanilla buttercream: In large bowl of stand mixer, beat butter on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add vanilla and, with mixer on low, slowly add in powdered sugar, cream and salt, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. Once incorporated, whip frosting at least 3 minutes on medium-high or high speed. If frosting is too thick, gradually beat in additional cream. Pipe on top of cooled cupcakes and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan

(Family Features) Most holiday feasts call for delicious dishes to please a crowd, but making preparation as simple as possible is as time-honored a tradition as the turkey itself. Simplifying your recipes and the ingredients you’ll need is one of the easiest ways you can take pressure off your own shoulders as the festivities draw near.

For example, this Sweet Tea Turkey Brine calls for just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients like Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea – available nationwide and fresh-brewed without any added preservatives or colors – for a tender centerpiece at your gathering. Follow it up with Sweet Pumpkin Bread for dessert that will truly wow your crowd while cutting down on prep time.

Find more holiday recipes and inspiration at drinkmilos.com.

Sweet Tea Turkey Brine

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes

• 1          gallon Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea
• 1          cup kosher salt
• 3          large sweet onions, quartered
• 4          lemons, sliced
• 8          garlic cloves, peeled
• 5          sprigs rosemary
• 10        cups ice
• whole turkey

1. In large stockpot over medium-high heat, combine sweet tea and kosher salt; stir frequently until salt is dissolved. Add onions, lemons, garlic and rosemary. Remove from heat; let cool to room temperature.
2. When broth mixture cools, pour into clean 5-gallon bucket. Stir in ice.
3. Wash and dry turkey. Remove innards. Place turkey, cavity-side up, into brine to fill cavity. Cover and place bucket in refrigerator overnight.
4. Remove turkey, carefully draining excess brine; pat dry. Discard excess brine.
5. Cook turkey, as desired, reserving drippings for gravy.

Sweet Pumpkin Bread

Prep time: 15
Cook time: 55-60 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf

• 1 2/3    cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2    cups sugar
• 1          teaspoon baking soda
• 1          teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1/2       teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2       teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2          eggs
• 1          cup canned pumpkin
• 1/2       cup Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea
• 1/2       cup pecans or walnuts (optional)

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. In large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, baking powder and nutmeg. In small bowl, whisk eggs, pumpkin and sweet tea. Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just moistened. Fold in nuts, if desired.
3. Pour into greased 9-by-5-inch loaf pan. Bake 55-60 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes before removing to wire rack.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images (pumpkin bread)

Source: Milo’s Sweet Tea

Fill your house with the aroma of fall with warm slices of this Pumpkin Loaf dolloped with butter.

Find more seasonal dessert recipes at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Pumpkin Loaf

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 4          eggs
• 3 1/2    cups flour
• 2          teaspoons baking soda
• 2          teaspoons cinnamon
• 1          teaspoon nutmeg
• 1          teaspoon salt
• 2          sticks butter
• 2          cups sugar
• 1          can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
• 1          cup chocolate chips
• 1          cup walnuts, chopped

1. Heat oven to 350° F.
2. Prepare loaf and muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray.
3. In bowl, whisk eggs. Set aside.
4. In separate bowl, sift flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt together. Set aside.
5. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add whisked eggs and mix until blended.
6. Alternately add flour mixture and pumpkin puree to egg mixture, beating until blended. Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.
7. Pour batter into loaf and muffin pans. Bake 40-45 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean.
8. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans.

Add fruit to your breakfast with this take on French toast, which includes a mixture of berries, bananas and vanilla yogurt wrapped in tortillas and topped with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Find more breakfast recipes at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Fruity Yogurt French Toast Wraps

• 1          cup blueberries
• 1          cup strawberries, sliced, plus additional for garnish (optional)
• 1          cup bananas, sliced
• 1          cup vanilla yogurt
• 1/4       cup granola
• 1          egg
• 1/4       cup milk
• 1          teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2       teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 6-8       tortillas
• 2          teaspoons butter
• 4-6       teaspoons powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)

1. In medium bowl, combine blueberries, strawberries, bananas, yogurt and granola. Mix well and set aside.
2. Using pie plate, crack egg and whisk. Add milk, cinnamon and nutmeg; whisk until combined.
3. Coat both sides of tortillas in egg mixture.
4. In skillet, melt butter. Place coated tortillas one at a time in pan and cook 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Move to plate.
5. Spoon yogurt mixture into center of tortillas. Fold edges over to form wraps.
6. Dust each with powdered sugar and top with additional strawberry slices, if desired.

Create kid-friendly meals using canned foods

(Family Features) Back-to-school season means busy schedules filled with extracurricular activities, homework and carpools. It can be challenging to find quality time to spend with loved ones, let alone get a wholesome, homemade meal on the table.

A simple way to create more moments with your family and still serve up nutritious and delicious dinners is to make sure you have canned foods on-hand.

According to a study published in “Nutrients,” a pantry stocked with canned produce helps adults and kids eat more nutrient-rich foods, leading to healthier overall diets. Canned foods also help cut down on meal prep, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time together with your family doing the things you love.

“As a busy mom, canned foods are my secret weapon in the kitchen and ensure that I always have the makings of a nutritious meal for my family all year long, and especially when the kids are back in school,” said Holley Grainger, registered dietitian and mother of two. “Fresh fruits and vegetables are harvested at the peak of ripeness and canned within only four hours after being picked, sealing in their nutrition and flavor. So, I know I have year-round access to my family’s favorite seasonal fruits and vegetables right in my pantry.”

Canned foods also make it easy to get the kids involved in the kitchen, with recipes like Pumpkin Mac and Cheese or Hearty Chickpea Vegetable Soup, so you can help build a positive connection to healthy eating for your children. Plus, the family can “go green” and recycle the cans after they’re used; in fact, cans are the most recycled food and beverage containers in America.
 
For more flavorful recipes, and to learn more about the benefits of cooking with canned foods, visit CansGetYouCooking.com.

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

• 8          ounces rotini or medium shell pasta
• 5          tablespoons butter, divided
• 1/4       cup all-purpose flour
• 1          can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
• 1          cup milk
• 1/2       cup canned pumpkin
• 1 1/2    teaspoons salt
• 1/4       teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4       teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2          cups shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese
• 1          cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4       cup breadcrumbs

1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. Heat oven to 375° F.
3. Grease 1 1/2-quart baking dish. In 4-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in flour; cook 1 minute. Gradually stir in evaporated milk and milk; cook until mixture is thickened and smooth. Stir in pumpkin, salt, pepper and nutmeg.
4. Remove from heat; whisk in cheeses until smooth. Stir in cooked pasta; toss to mix well. Spoon into baking dish.
5. Melt remaining butter; stir in breadcrumbs to coat well. Sprinkle on top of casserole. Bake 30 minutes, or until sauce is bubbly and mixture is golden.

Hearty Chickpea Vegetable Soup

• 1          tablespoon olive oil
• 1          medium onion, chopped
• 1          large garlic clove, minced
• 2          teaspoons ground cumin
• 2          cans (14 3/4 ounces each) low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1          cup water
• 4          cups cubed butternut squash (about 1 medium squash)
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1          can (15 1/2 ounces) garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
• 1          can (14 1/2 ounces) sliced carrots, drained
• 3          cups kale, coarsely chopped

1. In 4-quart saucepan over medium-high heat, heat oil. Cook onion and garlic until just softened, stirring frequently. Stir in cumin; cook 1 minute.
2. Add broth, water, butternut squash and salt. Over high heat, heat to boil.
3. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 20 minutes until squash is tender.
4. Add garbanzo beans, carrots and kale. Continue to simmer about 5 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Source: Can Manufacturers Institute