Cakes

White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake

This recipes is only to be made when you want to pull out all the stops. I made this for the first time in 1996, and it has been a great dessert to serve every since. My least favorite things about cheesecakes is when they crack, and this one is no different. But you just… Continue reading White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake

Pies

Carmelized Banana Creme Pie

Let me tell you, you only make this pie for someone you really love. It's not quick, but it is delicious. It's really good if you can find chocolate wafer cookies, but if not, I've also used ginger and almond cookies. You could use graham crackers in a pinch (maybe chocolate ones?). I made this… Continue reading Carmelized Banana Creme Pie

Cookies

Molasses Cookies

A zillion years ago when I worked in the corporate world, I worked with a girl at NCD who brought these in for my birthday. I was so touched, and they were so moist and chewy that I've made them ever since! Molasses Cookies3/4 cup margarine or butter (this is the only reason I buy… Continue reading Molasses Cookies

Cookies

Creme de Menthe Brownies

When I got married, I wanted to get a few of my husband's family recipes, and this one is at the top of the bunch. His Aunt Sus gave it to me; they are her Christmas standby, and now they are mine too. They are so moist, and the chocolate and mint combo is a… Continue reading Creme de Menthe Brownies

Cookies

Sand Lake Cookies

My friend Margit brought these to me at an impromptu Halloween party in 1999 at my house. I thought they looked "interesting," but oh when I tasted them... They were great! Margit's family used to go to Sand Lake in Minnesota every summer and would bring these cookies, thus the name. They are almost like… Continue reading Sand Lake Cookies

Cookies

Peanut Butter Stars

These are a must for the holidays and my husband's favorites. I've had many versions, but these are the best, courtesy of my friend Sandy, who also says it isn't Christmas in her house without these! Peanut Butter Star Cookies Makes 3 dozen cookies 1/2 cup sugar 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup margarine or… Continue reading Peanut Butter Stars

Pasta · Poultry

Book Club Pasta

Looking for a recipe that serves a large group and looks pretty?  I love this one with all my heart.  It comes from my friend Irene (an amazing cook), but I think Tracy holds the record for making it.  The mixture of asparagus, basil, and walnuts make this a bite of heaven.   Debone the roasted… Continue reading Book Club Pasta

Breakfast · Salty

Chili Egg Puff Breakfast Casserole

We would not steer you wrong.  Egg casseroles are a dime a dozen, and this is a clear winner.  I think it is from my friend Sandy in Portland, but it's been so long, who knows now. I follow the directions, except that sometimes I add some good diced ham for another all-in-one meal. If… Continue reading Chili Egg Puff Breakfast Casserole

Poultry

Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie

The Superstorms of 2011 brought out comfort food at its best. Thanks to the Super Bowl, we have a cute name for a week of ice and snow. I love a good pot pie. I make this and also add a half of a cubed potato. I used smoked turkey that was left over from… Continue reading Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie

Vegetarian/General

Butternut Squash Lasagna

I'm crazy about butternut squash, especially when I find it already peeled and cubed. This recipe isn't exactly quick, but it makes 2 pretty big ones, so  you have an extra for the freezer or for a friend. It's another Cooking Light recipe, with only 254 calories per portion. But don't hold this against it.… Continue reading Butternut Squash Lasagna