The Ninja Baker - #SundaySupper

Chocolate Toffee Cookies, #5Ingredients, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sat, 30 May 2015 02:49:22 +0000

The Best Things in Life are Free...except chocolate and Hello Kitty!

Some things in life like chocolate and Hello Kitty are worth the price tag, don’t you think? Seriously, after a visit today to the Japanese American National Museum, I am in awe of how the universe rewards those who strive to bring goodness into our world. (Apak - Aaron and Ayumi Piland - by the way, are the inspired artists behind the above Inner Kitty.)

Shintaro Tsuji, the man responsible for the worldwide explosion of Hello Kitty, drew me to his photo with his kind smile. His expression was one of sweet contentment. (Of course, life would be wonderful as a billionaire!) Research revealed a man who has overcome spirit-breaking experiences. (Just a few examples: Tsuji-san lost his mother at age 10 to leukemia. Tsuji-san was bullied by his remaining relatives. He witnessed the suicide of his commanding officer upon Japan's surrender in 1945.) Instead of growing cynical and embittered, Shintaro Tsuji dedicated himself to delivering happiness and comfort.

Hello Kitty Transcendence by Martin Hsu

Taking my cue from the man who set out to make the world smile with Hello Kitty, I'm including crowd-pleasing chocolate in my 5-ingredients or less recipe challenge for tonight's Sunday Supper dessert. (Scroll down to see your invite to this weekly dinner party on Twitter.)

Chocolate cookies dancing with melted toffee bits .

My 5-Ingredients Chocolate Toffee Cookies are revolutionary wonders. The taste is distinctly homemade with love goodness...guaranteed to bring grins to friends and family. AND the compliments as well as the quick and easy recipe are sure to make you smile!

Last minute demands for a bake sale or school party cookies?
5-Ingredient Chocolate Toffee Cookies will reveal the true superhero you!

High-quality chocolate cake mix serves as the foundation. Espresso, coconut oil and toffee bits further enhance the cookies.

Small gifts like chocolate toffee cookies and Hello Kitty
do wonders to make any day special.

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5-Ingredient Chocolate Toffee Cookies

Soft chocolate cookies with melted bits of toffee crunch are deliciously delivered in this 5-Ingredient Chocolate Toffee Cookie recipe. This is a go-to recipe when presented with demands for last-minute cookies.

Yields 4 dozen cookies.

Adapted from a cookie recipe at SpoonUniversity.com.

Ingredients:

1 box chocolate cake mix
1 cup toffee bits
1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon coconut oil
2 eggs
1 tablespoon espresso

Directions:

Lightly whisk eggs in a large bowl. (One at a time so you can easily fetch out any egg shells.) Pour in the cake mix, coconut oil and espresso. Blend well with an electric mixer. Stir in the toffee bits.
Freeze for 20 minutes.
Scoop tablespoons of the dough onto parchment lined cookie sheets.
Bake at 350 for 10 minutes. Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes.

Tonight's Sunday Supper host is T.R. of Gluten Free Crumbley. Even if your diet does not require you to go gluten-free, T.R.'s recipes are definitely worth checking out! As are the recipes below contributed by stellar cooks and bakers from around the globe.

Drinks

2 Ingredient Orange Juice Frosty Drink by The Educators' Spin On It
Five Ingredient Sangria by Our Good Life
Pina Colada Summer Smoothie by Cosmopolitan Cornbread

Appetizers and Snacks

5-Ingredient Creamy Avocado Dressing by Take A Bite Out of Boca
Crescent Jalapeno Poppers by The Weekend Gourmet
Crockpot Chicken Chili Dip by The Crumby Cupcake
Gluten Free Peach Salsa by Gluten Free Crumbley
Grilled Zucchini and Goat Cheese Roll Ups by Food Done Light
Marinated Feta Tomato Skewers by Noshing with the Nolands
Roasted Chili-Lime Peanuts by Casa de Crews
Strawberry Coconut Soup with Mint by The Wimpy Vegetarian

Main Dish

3 Ingredient Steak Marinade by MealDiva
Baked Fajita Chicken by Recipes Food and Cooking
Crab Pasta by Caroline's Cooking
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms by Palatable Pastime
Healthy Chocolate Protein Pancakes by Momma's Meals
Homemade Porcini Almond Pasta by The Joyful Foodie
Abruzzo Style Cannellini Beans with Fennel & Chicken by Delaware Girl Eats
Nutella BLT Sandwich by Brunch with Joy
Salmon in Puff Pastry by Sew You Think You Can Cook
Simple Brined Roast Chicken with Herbs and Garlic by Crazy Foodie Stunts
Simple Grilled Tilapia by Cooking Chat
Simple Summer Shrimp and Asparagus by eating in instead
Skirt Steak and Grilled Potatoes for a Crowd by Family Foodie
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken by Nosh My Way
Slowcooker Ravioli Lasagne by Jane's Adventures in Dinner

Side Dish

Brazilian Black Beans by Curious Cuisiniere
Korean Seasoned Dried Squid (Ojingeochae muchim) by kimchi MOM
Mashed Cauliflower with Parmesan by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
Sauerkraut and Apple Salad by Cindy's Recipes and Writings
Sesame Lime Edamame by Magnolia Days
Southern Style Squash Casserole by Recipe for Perfection
Tomato, Avocado and Bacon Salad by Peanut Butter and Peppers

Desserts

Apple Drop Candy by What Smells So Good?
Chocolate Toffee Cookies by NinjaBaker.com
Coconut White Chocolate Truffles by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Easy No Churn Peach Frozen Yogurt by Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Fluffernutter Cookies by Pies and Plots
Magic Pudding Dessert by Grumpy's Honeybunch
No-Churn Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Cake by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Rhubarb Crumble by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Creamy Coconut, Roasted Strawberry Chocolate Chip Popsicles by Simply Health Family
Recipe Substitution Tips by Sunday Supper

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board. Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Wishing you chocolate, cuddly kitties and all the best things of life!

The Ninja Baker

© ™ Watkinson 2012

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

Follow Ninja Baker @NinjaBaking's board NinjaBaker.com Sweets on Pinterest.

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Cheese Bread, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sat, 09 May 2015 06:20:51 +0000

“All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” Abraham Lincoln

Who is the biggest influence in your life today?

As Mother’s Day approaches, memories from days past pop into my mind. My birth mother, the Wimbledon tennis star, was more focused on smashing balls over the net than perfecting her potatoes. Yet, on my summer visits to her home in Cambridge, Massachusetts, she managed to scramble the best eggs in the world. I swore it was the sour cream that made the eggs extra delicious. Today I think the breakfast-for-dinner meal was satisfying because Mom made it.

The banana bread made by my stepmother, Barbara, was spectacular, too. I grew up with Barbara, an actress (with an eye for exquisite antiques) in Tokyo. As she was constantly booking jobs, her baking time in the kitchen was curtailed. However, I have fond memories of Barbara slicing cheese and nibbling on crackers as she regaled Dad and me with tales from her glamorous day. I don’t think Barbara would describe her work as glamorous. But it sure beat trying to solve algebra problems!

Figuring out what I wanted to make for this Mother’s Day weekend, though, was a breeze. Japanese bread flour in my pantry beckoned; and the Cuisinart bread maker machine stared coldly at me. Time to stop procrastinating. I picked up sharp cheddar cheese and celebrated happy memories with this cheese bread.

Just as mothers influence their children, ingredients do make a huge difference when baking. Japanese flour lends itself to soft, fluffy bread slices. My cheese bread is no exception. The combination in the bread of sweet butter with touches of sharp cheddar cheese is excellent, too. If you are a huge cheese fan, feel free to add more cheese. Enjoy the cheese bread with a goblet of Merlot or glass of milk. Cheers!

Cheese Bread

This bread is full of contrasts: feather soft bread surrounded by crunchy crust, buttery sweetness accented with strings of sharp cheddar cheese.

This recipe is adapted from the Cuisinart Bread Machine Instruction Booklet

Ingredients:

¾ cup lukewarm water between 80 and 90 degrees
3 tablespoons unsalted, softened butter
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups bread flour (Japanese bread flour or the finest bread flour available)
2 tablespoons nonfat dry milk
1 teaspoon yeast (active dry or instant)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Directions:

Place all ingredients except for the cheese into the pan of a bread maker machine. (Apparently it’s important to adhere to the order listed above.) When your machine signals it’s time for mix-ins, pour in 1 cup grated cheese. Bake the loaf at the white bread setting.

Camilla of Culinary Adventures with Camilla has assembled this Mother's Day lineup for the Sunday Supper celebration at Twitter. Scroll down for your invite and many wonderful ways to say, "I love you" to that special lady in your life.

Celebratory Sips

Ginger Shandy by Nosh My Way
La Vie en Rose by Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Momma's Mimosa by Our Good Life

Starters and Salads

Cheese Bread by Ninja Baker
Classic Basil Pesto Crostini by Cooking Chat
Fennel and Radish Citrus Salad by Tasting Page
Healthy Ham Salad Minis by Momma's Meals
Pate with Spiced Pears by The Joyful Foodie
Pesto Pasta Salad by Peanut Butter and Peppers
Super Sunny Dutch Oven Sourdough by What Smells So Good?

Hearty Mains

Blackberry Almond Mascarpone Stuffed French Toast by The Crumby Cupcake
Broccoli Cheddar Frittata with Tomatoes by The Wimpy Vegetarian
Chicken and Pepper Rice with Fried Egg by Family Foodie
Chicken Tajine with Prunes and Almonds by The Petit Gourmet
Coriander Salmon with Capered Green Beans by Cosmopolitan Cornbread
Dutch Baby Pancake by Curious Cuisiniere
Goat Cheese Scrambled Eggs and Ramps in Puff Pastry by The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
Mimosa Waffles by Sew You Think You Can Cook
Mushroom Manchego Cream Filled Crepes by Lifestyle Food Artistry
Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Arugula Salad by Casa de Crews
Smoked Salmon & Shaved Asparagus Gruyere Quiche with a Pine Nut Crust by Simply Healthy Family

Treats and Sweets

5 Favorite Pancake Toppings by Sunday Supper
Angel Food Cakes in a Jar by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
Black Cow Cupcakes by Cindy's Recipes and Writings
Blueberry Breakfast Cake by Noshing With The Nolands
Bourbon Peach Frozen Yogurt by Food Lust People Love
Cherry Cheesecake Pastry Braid by The Redhead Baker
Crustless Creamy Blueberry Swirl Cheesecake by Magnolia Days
Deluxe Salted Caramel Turtle Sundae by The Weekend Gourmet
Gluten Free Strawberries and Cream Cake by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Lemon Blackberry Mini Tarts by Life Tastes Good
Lemon Brownies by Pies and Plots
Lower Fat Peach Cheesecake by Food Done Light
Mini Chocolate Marshmallow Bombe Soufflé by Nik Snacks
Mini Lemon Almond Cupcakes by Caroline's Cooking
Nutella Cheesecake Shooters by Fantastical Sharing of Recipes
Pavlova by The Freshman Cook
Perfect Chocolate Cupcakes by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Raspberry Mascarpone Mini Tarts by Palatable Pastime
Rose Apple Custard Tart by Jane's Adventures in Dinner
Soft-Baked Lemon Coconut Cookies by One Sweet Mess
Steamed Strawberry Coconut Poke Cake by Wallflour Girl
Sunshine Lemon Cake Pop Bouquet by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Triple Chocolate Layer Cake by Take A Bite Out of Boca

Wishing you a Happy Mother's Day.

The Ninja Baker

© ™ Watkinson 2012

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

Tags:

#cheese

#bread

#SundaySupper

Lemon Yuzu Cookies, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sat, 18 Apr 2015 19:27:59 +0000

Once Upon A Time, in ancient Japan, an aromatic Asian citron named Yuzu-chan swayed in the breeze. Contemplating the sliver of crescent moon, the fruit thought of its Chinese ancestors. Many of Yuzu-chan’s family survived the trip via the Korean Peninsula. However, as in all journeys, there was great loss. Some seedlings did not survive. But as moonlight bounced on the tree branch where Yuzu-chan was nestled, he nearly burst with citrus pride. Thanks to those who’d survived the challenging journey, Japanese were now appreciating the wonders of yuzu. Condiments with yuzu zest and chili peppers provided fire on the tongue. Japanese confections were kissed by the presence of yuzu and brought many sighs of contentment.

The Ninja Baker's lemon yuzu cookies dance with effervescent citrus!

The gentle wind rocked Yuzu-chan, the crickets sang a sleepy-time lullaby. As the moon slid behind a cloud like a paper-thin Japanese sliding door; Yuzu-chan dreamed of the day he and his family would adventure abroad and share the wonders of yuzu.

Highly recommended: A lemon yuzu cookie in each hand.
How do you eat cookies?

Well, Yuzu-chan’s dream came true! Fans of the lemon-lime flavored Japanese yuzu citrus are increasing around the world. While the actual fruit is a rare find in the US, yuzu juice and now dried yuzu bits are available. (Those residing in the City of Angels can head to Marukai. All others can check out the online Amazon offerings. Or your local Asian market.)

Tart yuzu glaze hugs soft citrus cookies.

As soon as I saw dried yuzu bits, I nabbed two packages and set out to make cookies. I confess the yuzu flavor is a tad timid in the cookies. The yuzu taste, however, does sing a tart tune in the sugar glaze. (When baking the cookies next time, I’ll add more yuzu juice and play with coconut flour to compensate for the extra liquid.) With or without adjustments, the recipe for my lemon yuzu cookies is a keeper recipe. A glaze-coated crunchy exterior gives way to a soft citrus cookie. Lemon yuzu cookies are super simple to make. AND no refrigeration of dough is required! The Ninja Baker’s lemon yuzu cookies are for those who LOVE to save time but still savor scrumptious homemade treats!

Lemon Yuzu Cookies

The scent of baking cookies in the oven is a blessing in any home. My lemon yuzu cookies are no exception. What is exceptional, however, is the enhanced citrus aroma the day after baking. The soft citrus cookies with the perky glaze crunch remain heavenly on or after baking day!

This recipe yields 44 cookies. Best kept stored in a tightly closed tin or Tupperware. Lemon yuzu cookies are adapted from a recipe on the Duncan Hines cake mix site

Ingredients:

For the cookies:

1 package lemon cake mix
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 eggs
2 tablespoons (or more) of Japanese yuzu juice
Ninja Note: If you add more than 2 tablespoons, you’ll probably need to drop in a tablespoonful of coconut flour to compensate for the extra liquid.
1/3 cup dried yuzu fruit bits

For the glaze:

2½ cups powdered sugar
5 tablespoons yuzu juice

Optional garnish:
Yellow sanding sugar

Directions:

Vigorously stir together the cake mix, oil, eggs and yuzu juice. Squish as many lumps out as possible with a big mixing spoon or spatula.

With a handheld mixer, beat the ingredients until smooth.

Drop dough onto a parchment lined cookie sheet using a mini ice cream scooper or a tablespoon-measuring spoon.

Bake at 350 degrees for 14 minutes or until the edges of the cookies appear golden brown.

Whisk together the powdered sugar and yuzu juice until smooth. After the cookies have cooled for about 3 minutes, drizzle the glaze onto the cookies. Sprinkle with yellow sanding sugar if desired.

April 22nd is Earth Day and April 23rd is National Picnic Day. The Twitter chat tonight at the virtual #SundaySupper table is all about picnic-friendly food. This event is being hosted by T.R. of Gluten Free Crumbley. Even if you don’t have gluten sensitivities T.R.’s site is chock full of yummy recipes. In addition to the Ninja Baker’s lemon yuzu cookies, I believe you’ll want to stuff your hamper with the heavenly picnic suggestions below.

Appetizers:

Caprese Skewers by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
Crisp Cucumber Salsa with Southwest Style Chips by Momma's Meals
French Onion Dip, with Greek Yogurt by Casa de Crews
Mediterranean Spiced Hummus by Take A Bite Out of Boca
Pepperoni Pinwheels by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Watermelon Salad by annaDishes

Beverages:

Blackberry Lemonade by The Redhead Baker
Blueberry Mojito Mocktails by NeighborFood
Grandma's Stuff by Jane's Adventures in Dinner
Minty Cardinal Punch by Food Lust People Love
Pineapple Ginger Lemonade Spiked with Turmeric by Sue's Nutrition Buzz
Sangria Punch by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Strawberry Pineapple Lemonade by Noshing With The Nolands

Main Dishes:

Avocado Sriracha Egg Salad by Rants From My Crazy Kitchen
Barbecue Ranch Quinoa Chicken Salad by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Boneless Chicken Wings by Nosh My Way
Burger Ice Cream by Brunch with Joy
Chicken Salad Sliders by Life Tastes Good
Spanish tortilla by Caroline's Cooking

Sides:

Broccoli & Tomato Pasta Salad by Flour On My Face
Buffalo Macaroni Salad by Sew You Think You Can Cook
Couscous Veggie Salad with Pesto by Cooking Chat
Fully Loaded Baked Potato Salad by Serena Bakes Simply From Scratch
Granola Salad by Cindy's Recipes and Writings
Greek Style Asparagus Salad by Curious Cuisiniere
No Mayo Slaw with Poppyseed Dressing by Palatable Pastime
Spiralized Beet and Goat Cheese Salad by The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
Sweet and Tangy Brussels Coleslaw with Fennel, Chopped Apples and Golden Raisins by Simply Healthy Family

Soups and Salads:

Barley and Rice Salad by Family Foodie
Broccoli Salad with Bacon and Dried Cranberries by Food Done Light
Layered Mason Jar Pasta Salad for Two by The Weekend Gourmet
Smoked Turkey Salad by Our Good Life
Spinach Salad with Apples & Pecans in an Apple Balsamic Vinaigrette by Carrie's Experimental Kitchen
Nicoise Salad by The Petit Gourmet

Desserts:

Bacon-Bulleit Brownies by Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Fudgey Coca Cola Cake by Recipes Food and Cooking
Earth Day Cupcakes by Savory Experiments
Gluten Free Cookie Bars by Gluten Free Crumbley
Lemon Lime Pound Cake by Vintage Kitchen
Lemon Yuzu Cookies by NinjaBaker.com
Mini Lemon Chess Pies by Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
No-Bake Cookie Butter Chex Mix Bars by Wallflour Girl
Peanut Butter Bars by Cosmopolitan Cornbread
Peanut Butter Carob Bars by Pies and Plots
Sourdough Chunk Cookies by What Smells So Good?

Welcome home lemon yuzu cookies and milk.

Wishing you a soft, sweet place to land after a long journey.

The Ninja Baker

© ™ Watkinson 2012

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

Tags:

Gluten-Free Donuts, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sun, 01 Mar 2015 00:23:15 +0000

I nibbled the Ninja Baker’s adaptation of a BabyCakes gluten-free donut. Deeeelicious! Whew! Substituting banana for applesauce along with a few other Ninja tweaks made for one scrumptious gluten-free donut. Dare I say it? I do believe my gluten-free donut was better than a regular cake donut! Added bonus: My gluten-free donuts are also vegan!

Simple but scrumptious, this gluten-free and vegan donut is a royal delight!

Today’s #SundaySupper chat at Twitter is all about recipes using beans. (Scroll down to see your invite to the virtual dinner table.) So, Erin McKenna’s BabyCakes gluten-free and vegan cake donut recipe, which requires garbanzo bean flour, fits the bill. To honor the beanirific #SundaySupper theme, I also added vanilla bean paste.

Dipping my gluten-free and vegan donuts into rose-colored candy melts, a few musings about the humble bean stirred…

Believing good would result from his handful of magic beans, Jack grew an enormous beanstalk and the courage to find comfort for his mother. A mere fairy tale character you say? Fair enough.

Organic sugar, bananas and flours only make goodies like gluten-free donuts even better!

But, do you know the true-life story of gluten-free, vegan BabyCakes owner and cookbook author, Erin McKenna? Just in case you’ve never heard of BabyCakes; the bakeshop to the stars is thriving in LA, NYC and Disney World. BabyCakes cookbooks featuring gluten-free and vegan desserts probably fly off Amazon shelves almost as often as their divine bakeshop desserts.

Once upon a time, the queen of gluten-free and vegan goodies, Erin McKenna, followed her heart and gave up a cushy job so she could create treats for kids with food allergies. Initially she struggled with a string of failed recipes. However, she persevered and did her homework. Erin studied Julia Child’s recipes and analyzed how best to create comparable gluten-free and vegan treats. The BabyCakes owner / author also dove deep inside for answers on how to make her heart’s dreams true.

“I’d meditate a lot and have a clear mind and would just kind of intuitively start throwing things in a bowl and take notes about how things would turn out. Over time I developed an understanding of the ingredients and how they worked and what they did in a recipe.” (Erin McKenna, She-ro of BabyCakes, HelloGiggles.com)

Cat's Meow Donut!

So, do you have a handful of magic bean ideas you’d like to see flourish? How about planting one this week?

Need a tad more encouragement?

"Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase." (King James Bible, Job 8:7)

Not comfortable with a Bible quote? Read more about Erin McKenna’s story at HelloGiggles.com and/or Healthy, Happy, Life.com

Or ponder the humble beginnings of billionaire author JK Rowling who scribbled the start of the Harry Potter series on paper napkins!

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Gluten-Free (and Vegan!) Donuts

A gluten-free donut magically poufs up deliciousness in the oven thanks to a BabyCakes recipe tweaked by the Ninja Baker. A simple blend of flours, a soupçon of leavening agents whisked in with bananas and vanilla bean will bring on a strong case of the happys. P.s. If a touch of anything banana bothers you, substitute applesauce.

Ingredients:

1 cup organic cane sugar
¾ cup garbanzo bean flour
¼ cup potato starch
¼ cup corn starch
¼ cup arrowroot
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon xanthan gum
½ teaspoon table salt
Pinch of baking soda
1/3 cup coconut oil (the liquid kind/canola oil works too)
6 tablespoons mashed up bananas
¼ cup vanilla bean paste
½ cup hot water

Directions:

Whisk together the dry ingredients. (Sugar, flours, potato and corn starches, arrowroot, baking powder, xanthan gum, salt and baking soda.)

Stir in the coconut oil, bananas, vanilla bean paste and hot water. Combine well.

Divide the batter amongst 12 wells of well-greased (with coconut oil) donut pans. Bake for 18 to 25 minutes in a 325-degree oven.

Dip cooled donuts into candy melts or melted chocolate. Or sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar or powdered sugar. Or just enjoy plain!

Tammi of Momma's Meals another inspirational She-Hero hosts today's beaniristic SundaySupper!

Beantastic Beginners:

Avocado Hummus by Our Good Life
Bean Ragoût and Crisped Mushrooms by Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Black Bean Chili Nachos by Brunch with Joy
Chickpea Fries (Panisse) by Curious Cuisiniere
Five Layer Greek Hummus Dip by Food Done Light
Pizza Roasted Chickpeas by A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
White Bean and Basil Spread by Peaceful Cooking

Bean-a-rific Soups and Stews:

Butternut Squash White Bean Soup by Magnolia Days
Chickpea and Bean Soup by Momma's Meals
Classic Cassoulet by Food Lust People Love
Navy Bean & Kale Soup by An Appealing Plan
Navy Bean Soup by The Messy Baker
Slow Cooker Pork and Bean Stew by Nosh My Way
Kielbasa and White Bean Soup by Cosmopolitan Cornbread
Spicy Sausage, White Bean and Spinach Soup by Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen

Bean-a-licious Sides:

Bean and Cornbread Salad by MealDiva
Clams with Black Beans by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Gluten Free Green Bean Casserole by Gluten Free Crumbley
Gold Rush Baked Beans by Lifestyle Food Artistry
Maple Brown Sugar Baked Beans by Carrie's Experimental Kitchen
Pinto Beans With Cornbread Croutons by Nik Snacks
Whiskey Bacon Baked Beans by Sew You Think You Can Cook

Incredi-bean Main Meals:

Arugula Tomato and Beans Flatbread by Family Foodie
Bean and Bacon Tacos by Jane's Adventures in Dinner
Beefy Lima Bean Casserole by Cindy's Recipes and Writings
Colombian Red beans - Frisoles Antioquenos by Palatable Pastime
Italian Beans and Greens by Simply Healthy Family
Honey-Lime Black Bean and Sweet Potato Tacos by The Chunky Chef
One Pot Tuscan Style Garlic Herb Pork Chops by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
Orecchiette with White Beans and Swiss Chard by Delaware Girl Eats
Skillet Black Beans and Pork by Cooking Chat
Ultimate Chili Stuffed Sweet Potatoes by Pancake Warriors
White Bean Ragout, Frisèe, and a Fried Egg by The Wimpy Vegetarian

Amaze-beans Sweet Endings:

Chocolate Covered Espresso Bean Bark by Love and Confections
Flourless Almond Joy Cookie Dough Ball by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Flourless Mocha Brownies by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Gluten-Free Black Bean Brownies by Wallflour Girl
Gluten-Free Donuts by NinjaBaker
Pecan Praline Black Bean Brownies by Rhubarb and Honey
Soy Awesome Cookies 2.0 by What Smells So Good?
Strawberry Coco-Cacao Bean Smoothie by Dandelion Greens
Sweet Bean Pie by Shockingly Delicious
Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee by Noshing With The Nolands

Join the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Wishing you a handful of magic beans which flourish beyond your wildest imagination!

The Ninja Baker

© ™ Watkinson 2012

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

Follow Ninja Baker @NinjaBaking's board NinjaBaker.com Sweets on Pinterest.

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Imitation Game Guinness Brownies, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sat, 21 Feb 2015 22:09:52 +0000

Did you see The Imitation Game? Pour in a heavy dose of suspense; sprinkle in intrigue; introduce a quirky mathematician and unlikely love-interests. Toss the elements into England’s Bletchley Park (code breaker headquarters) during WWII. After 114 minutes in the movie theatre, you may see why The Imitation Game is nominated for eight Oscars. Without leaking spoiler alerts, a conversation about love at the local pub prompts a major turning point in The Imitation Game. Although much of the excitement is enhanced by Hollywood; solving riddles, finding solutions with friends while sharing a pint of Guinness reads true to life.

Got Milk?

One of the many Hollywoodized features includes naming England’s WWII code-breaking machine “Christopher” instead of the real name, “Bombe.” (Hollywood fabricated a fantastic fantasy about Christopher….I’m being good about not revealing plot points!) The Imitation Game’s production designer also decided the machine should appear more like a vital being with red blood flowing veins. So, she added red cables.

Got Guinness?

A first-class honors mathematician (and closet homosexual) from England’s Cambridge University, Alan Turing, built the code-breaking machine and prototype of future computers. For his portrayal of the enigmatic mathematician, Benedict Cumberbatch (aka Sherlock Holmes on TV) is one of the Oscar nominees for Best Actor in a Leading Role. Also nominated for an Oscar is the loveliness-personified actress, Kiera Knightly. Again, Hollywood took liberties and cast Kiera Knightly who is a far cry from the brilliant but homelier version of her role. But, Ms. Knightly like the other cast members do a stellar job in this compelling part-fiction movie.

All you need is Love...And a plate of Guinness Brownies!

Instead of raising a glass of Guinness to honor Best Picture Oscar nominee The Imitation Game, I'm paying my respects with homemade Guinness brownies to share with friends. (And husband if he decides to do sugar tonight!) What are your plans for Oscar Sunday? The #SundaySupper Twitter chat tonight is all about the Oscars and red carpet parties. The super-smart and talented Katie of Ruffles & Truffles is hosting. Scroll down to see your invite….Along the way you’ll also meet some delectable nominees for best party menu items.

Imitation Game Guinness Brownies

Deep rivers of rich chocolate flow through Guinness brownies. It's an enigmatic mystery but the Irish beer enriches the semisweet chocolate brownie experience. A beautiful balance between cake and fudge...Guinness Brownies are definitely as Oscar worthy as the compelling nominated film The Imitation Game.

This recipe is adapted from Joy the Baker's Beer Brownies.

Ingredients:

Generous ½ cup unsalted butter
3½ ounces plus a handful more of regular-size semisweet chocolate chips
½ cup cold Guinness (or other dark beer)
1 cup all-purpose flour
Heaping ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon fleur de sel (sea salt)
4 room temperature eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup sugar (organic cane sugar if possible)
1 tightly packed cup of light brown sugar
¾ teaspoon coffee extract
1 overflowing cup mini semisweet chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Line a 13 x 9 pan with aluminum foil – enough so that you have easy lift handles on either side. Coat well with baking spray.

Make brown butter by melting the butter over a low flame. Do keep stirring with a heat resistant spatula. The butter will turn golden brown and may emit a nutty sort of essence. (It should take about 5 minutes.)

Pour the regular size chocolate chips into a heat resistant (think Pyrex) bowl placed into the top of a pan of simmering water. Make sure the bowl does not touch the water. OR place the chocolate chips into the top half of a double boiler. Melt the chocolate. Turn the heat off. Add the butter.

In a clean bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder and salt.

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugars and extract. Stir in the chocolate butter mixture. Pour the chocolaty mixture into the flour blend. Combine well. (But don’t over mix! You don’t want tough brownies.)

Spread the luscious brownie batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 40 minutes. Or until the edges are firm and the center is set.

Allow to cool…If you can. Cut into squares and clink your brownie squares with your beloveds. “Cheers!”

Nominees for Best Supporting Appetizers:

Beef Sliders with Sautéed Mushrooms, Onions, Bleu Cheese and Bacon by Crazy Foodie Stunts
Black and White Olive Cheese Puffs by Peaceful Cooking
Cheddar Olives by Jane's Adventures in Dinner
Chicken Boursin by Recipes Food and Cooking
Citrus Avocado Shrimp Cocktail by Seduction in the Kitchen
French Onion Sliders by Momma's Meals
Herbed Butter and Cheese Popcorn by Kudos Kitchen by Renee
Italian Guacamole with Pesto by Food Done Light
Lobster Bruschetta by The Texan New Yorker
Melon and Prosciutto Skewers by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Mini Cheese Balls by Rants From My Crazy Kitchen
Moroccan Beef Kefta Briouat by Manu's Menu
Mushroom Pate by Lifestyle Food Artistry
Oysters Rockfeller by Noshing With The Nolands
Pea Pesto Crostini by Ruffles & Truffes
Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp by Casa de Crews
Raspberry Brie Bites by Love and Confections
Roasted Red Pepper Pinwheels by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Smoked Trout Stuffed Baby New Potatoes by Food Lust People Love
Spinach Bites by Shockingly Delicious
Sweet Chili Chicken Skewers by Nosh My Way

Nominees for Best Course in a Leading Role:

Broccoli Calzones by eating in instead
Bow Ties and Tails Galore by Cindy's Recipes and Writings
Chicken Oscar by Palatable Pastime
Indulgent Lobster-Champagne Risotto by The Weekend Gourmet
Oscar Worthy Cantonese Lobster with Coconut-Ginger Rice by Confessions of a Culinary Diva

Nominees for Best Supporting Sips:

Apple Ginger Martini by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
Blood Orange Rosemary Spritzer by The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
Cherry Almond Sparklers by Magnolia Days
Iced Espresso Martini by Cosmopolitan Cornbread
Mixed Berry Martini by The Messy Baker
Oscartini by Family Foodie
Red Carpet Sparkler by Rhubarb and Honey
Thank You Peary Much by Sew You Think You Can Cook

Nominees for Best Delectable Desserts:

7-Layer Bark by Take A Bite Out of Boca
Caramel-Almond Latte Ricotta Cookies by What Smells So Good?
Champagne Truffles by Brunch with Joy
Chocolate Covered Cherries by Peanut Butter and Peppers
Decadent Flourless Brownies by Recipe for Perfection
Edible Oscars Envelopes by Sunday Supper Movement
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Crumble Peanut Butter Mousse Parfait Cups by Wallflour Girl
Imitation Game Guinness Brownies by NinjaBaker.com
Mini Strawberry Galette by Basic N Delicious
Mini Strawberry & Chocolate Cheesecakes by Happy Baking Days
No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake Shooters by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Popcorn Puppy Chow by Pies and Plots
Sweet and Salty Popcorn Ball Bites by The Life and Loves of Grumpy's Honeybunch
Tuxedo Cake by The Redhead Baker

Nominees for Best Dressed Table:

DIY Glitter Vases by Sunday Supper Movement

Wishing you sparkles, sequins, stars, Guinness brownies or whatever makes your head dizzy with delight!

The Ninja Baker

© ™ Watkinson 2012

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

Follow Ninja Baker @NinjaBaking's board NinjaBaker.com Sweets on Pinterest.

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Heart Healthy Salmon Bento, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sat, 14 Feb 2015 23:48:20 +0000

Japanese bento lunch boxes are budget-savers. Beautifully crafted bentos are often on sale hours before closing in department store basements in Japan. The artistic mosaics of foods arranged in accordance with the season are also available for a reasonable price on bullet train rides and station kiosks. Still, bento boxes like brown bags when homemade are inevitably infused with an invaluable ingredient – love.

A balanced bento:
Heart Healthy Salmon Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls) and almonds
are accompanied by Chocolate Péjoy Banana Rum Mini Cakes.

Bentos made by a parent or a spouse at home also allow for specific taste tailoring. Of course, the cookie monster in your house may vote for a cookie bento. But if the aim is providing a happy AND healthy lunch, a bento with onigiri rice balls stuffed with salmon (beef or other heart-healthy protein) is ideal. (Japanese – English dictionaries usually translate onigiri as Japanese rice balls. The translation is baffling to this Ninja Baker; traditionally the rice “balls” are actually more triangular in shape.)

Salmon: A fish with a myriad of virtues and versatility.

Salmon is a fantabulous choice for onigiri filling. Here are a few reasons why:

Salmon

reduces heart disease risk
decreases the chance of blood clots
keeps the heart beating normally (thanks to the potassium and unsaturated fats in salmon)
fights cancers
assists with anti-aging
contains phosphorus which works well with calcium to strengthen bones and teeth
flows with vitamin and mineral rich B6, B12, zinc, iron and niacin
Last and not least, salmon is packed with protein. Women need 46 grams of daily protein, men require 56 grams. 3 ounces of salmon holds 22 grams of protein – perfect for stuffing into a Japanese onigiri. And the triangular rice balls are marvelous companions in a bento box to almonds, leafy greens and the Ninja Baker’s Chocolate Péjoy Banana Rum Mini Cakes!

Click here for a brief onigiri how-to video.

One kitty who appreciates the benefits of salmon!

Thank you to Ethel of EatingInInstead and Lori of FoxesLoveLemons for hosting this Heart Healthy-themed SundaySupper. Besides attending the virtual dinner party at Twitter (scroll down for details) here are recipes to keep your heart healthy and your tummy happy!

Better for you breakfasts:

Apple Pie Oatmeal by Cosmopolitan Cornbread
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Scones by Brunch with Joy
Create-Your-Own Overnight Oatmeal by Rhubarb and Honey
Orange, Mango, Lime & Ginger Smoothie by The Wimpy Vegetarian
Pear Bran Muffins by Magnolia Days
Stovetop Fruit & Honey Granola by What Smells So Good?

Jump start your health with these appetizers and snacks:

Almond Crusted Chicken Nuggets by Momma's Meals
Chipotle Black Bean Dip by Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Lemon Aioli with Spring Vegetables by Jane's Adventures in Dinner
Mala Baked Tofu Bites by Palatable Pastime
Parmesan Pistachio Kale Chips by The Texan New Yorker

Soups that'll win your heart:

Asian Soba Noodle Broth Bowl by Hip Foodie Mom
Kale, Spinach, and Bean Soup by Ruffles & Truffles
Mushroom Quinoa Soup by Pies and Plots
Quinoa Chickpea Soup with Roasted Garlic & Veggies by Sue's Nutrition Buzz
Turkey and Black-Eyed Peas Soup by Cindy's Recipes and Writings

Veggies, Sides, & Salads your heart will thank you for:

Collard Greens with Cumin and Paprika by Nik Snacks
Salmon Caesar Salad by Casa de Crews
Kale Roasted Beet Salad with Honey Balsamic Dressing by Noshing with the Nolands
Lightened-Up Creamed Spinach au Gratin by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Roasted Teriyaki Green Beans and Mushrooms by NeighborFood
Salmon Salad Niçoise by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Seasoned Spinach & Bok Choy by Nosh My Way
Spinach Berry Salad by Country Girl in the Village
Sweet & Smokey Cauliflower Salad by Take a Bite Out of Boca
Winter Citrus Salad with Avocado-Basil Dressing by Foxes Love Lemons

Healthy is the center of attention in these main courses:

Baked Eggplant Parmesan by A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
Celeriac Noodles with Mushroom Ragu by The Joyful Foodie
Gluten Free Roasted Chicken and Kale by Gluten Free Crumbley
Heart Healthy Salmon Bento by The Ninja Baker
Lemony Grilled Chicken by Peaceful Cooking
Moroccan Salmon Tagine by Curious Cuisiniere
Olive Oil-Poached Salmon with Pickled Cherry Salsa by Culinary Adventures with Camilla
One Pot Mexican Quinoa by Have Fun Saving
Oven Baked Tilapia Tacos by Sew You Think You Can Cook
Piperies Yemistes me Pligouri - Bulgur Stuffed Peppers by Food Lust People Love
Salmon with Mango Salsa by Cooking Chat
Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Quinoa Bake by Food Done Light
Vegetable and Ginger Congee by eating in instead
Vegetarian Cuban-Style Black Beans & Rice by MealDiva
White Bean, Corn, Tomato and Rice Skillet by Family Foodie

Staying healthy doesn't mean giving up desserts!

Baked Figs with Vanilla and Honey by Happy Baking Days
Caramelized Pear Tart by PancakeWarriors
Cherry-Blueberry Trifles by The Life and Loves of Grumpy's Honeybunch

We heart wine.

Wine Pairing Recommendations for Heart Healthy #SundaySupper by ENOFYLZ Wine Blog

Wishing you and yours healthy hearts that sing with happiness!

The Ninja Baker

© ™ Watkinson 2012

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

Follow Ninja Baker @NinjaBaking's board NinjaBaker.com Savories on Pinterest.

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Chocolate Pocky Cake, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sat, 17 Jan 2015 08:47:00 +0000

Dorothy clicks her ruby red slippers and declares three-times: “There’s no place like home.” Magically, the little girl and her dog, Toto are transported back to safety and comfort. Do you ever wish you could click your heels and go back in time? When challenged with the unfamiliar, foods singing of childhood memories do seem to beckon this Ninja Baker.

After School Snack Time in Tokyo: Chocolate Pocky & Strawberry Cream Pocky

Japanese Pocky is one of those foods for me. You know the skinny cookie/biscuit stick dipped in classic chocolate or strawberry cream or green tea matcha? In my hometown of Tokyo, Pocky is the perfect snack for transporting on the train. The chocolate topping melts in your mouth, not on your hands. (Yes, Pocky could be the M & Ms of the cookie family.) Plus, who can beat the combo of chocolate and cookies in one bite?

Luscious Chocolate Cake and Frosting with a Pocky Garnish!

The sweetest part of the Pocky is the memory of sharing the boxes with friends. Innocent chitter-chatter about school plays; homework and slumber parties took center stage. No talk about gas prices or water shortages or paying mortgages. My friends and I led sheltered lives. Like the trains we rode where we chatted and savored our Pocky chocolate covered cookie sticks, time rumbled forward. And at 18 as I stepped on a flight from Narita to LA, with my pack of Pocky for the airplane ride, I couldn’t fathom the changes in store. Yes, it was culture shock. I was a stranger in a strange land…, which was weird because I was blonde and blue-eyed and looked more like the people of the land. Yet, as many turbulent rides as I took in adjusting to my new hometown, I feel as if angels and a higher force were always there; whispering that all is well when I listen to my heart and remember “There’s no place like home.”

What treat tickles your taste buds back to memories of your hometown?

The #SundaySupper crew is preparing a feast of hometown goodies to share around the virtual Twitter dinner table. (Scroll down to see your detailed invite.) I baked a Chocolate Pocky Cake. The recipes for the classic American chocolate cake and frosting are from the back of the Ghirardelli cocoa powder. Japanese Pocky is crumbled into the whipped cream filling and serves as the crunchy and scrumptious garnish.

Chocolate Pocky Cake and Chocolate Buttercream

A smooth chocolaty cake blends with whipped cream. Crumbled Pocky gives the dessert a pleasant surprise crunch...Nuts are great additions to cake...But, Pocky is better!

The recipes are closely adapted from Ghirardelli's Grand Fudge Cake and Chocolate Buttercream recipes.

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened cocoa
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup softened butter
1¾ cups sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 large eggs
1 1/3 cups coconut milk (or almond or regular)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

12 tablespoons softened butter
4 cups powdered sugar
1 cup unsweetened cocoa
2/3 cup coconut milk
1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Cream Filling:

1/2 pint heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Garnish and Cream Filling:

2 packages of Chocolate Pocky
2 packages of Strawberry Cream Pocky

Directions:

Set the oven to 350 degrees. Butter, flour and line two 9-inch pans with parchment paper.

Whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking powder, soda and salt.

In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy and light. (About 5 minutes.) One at a time, add the eggs and vanilla. Pour in the flour mixture alternately with the milk. When the batter is smooth, stop the mixer. Divide the batter between two 9-inch pans.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool.

Cream the butter to a fluffy lightness. Whisk together the sugar and cocoa. Add to the butter bowl alternately with the coconut milk. Stir in the vanilla.

Whip up a 1/2 pint of heavy cream with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar until stiff peaks appear. Slather the whipped cream in between the layers with 1/4 cup of crumbled Pocky. (I used Strawberry Cream Pocky.)

Frost the cake. Arrange the Pocky around the cake. Crumble the rest of the Pocky and decorate the top of the frosted chocolate cake....Or enjoy as a snack!

Coleen, The Red Head Baker leads this dance down memory lane for tonight's #SundaySupper. The red-headed Coleen is culinary program-trained baker. Lucky for us she shares her yummy creations. Her sophisticated but homey goodness infused Spinach, Sausage and Polenta Breakfast Casserole is but one example. (By the way, Coleen is also a talented graphic designer!).So, while your significant other is enraptured by a football game, open your computer, pop in those ear buds and join us around the #SundaySupper at Twitter.

Breakfast

Alamo City Breakfast Tacos by The Weekend Gourmet
Gluten Free Cinnamon Raisin Bagels by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
Mickey Mouse Waffles by Wallflour Girl
New York Style Bagels by The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
Peanut Butter and Fluff French Toast by Momma’s Meals

Drinks

Candied Kumquat Peels, Kumquat Syrup, and Kumquat-Ade by Recipe for Perfection
Wine Pairing Recommendations for Hometown Food by ENOFYLZ Wine Blog

Appetizers and Snacks

Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings by Peanut Butter and Peppers
Cuban Sandwich Crostini by Casa de Crews
Cuban Sandwich Dip by Family Foodie
South Jersey Boardwalk Popcorn by Take A Bite Out of Boca

Main Dishes

Chicken and Dumplings by Food Lust People Love
Crockpot Cincinnati Chili by Palatable Pastime
Fried Rice Vermicelli with Vegetable Fritters by Brunch with Joy
Honey Cola Baked Ham by Magnolia Days
Hot Brown Ham Sliders by A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
Joe's Special by Nosh My Way
Lentil, Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Curry by Mess Makes Food
New England Beans and Cod by Cooking Chat
Oven Toasted Ravioli by Curious Cuisiniere
Philadelphia Tomato Pie by The Redhead Baker
Pierogies by Hezzi D's Books and Cooks
Portobello "Philly Cheese Steak" by PancakeWarriors
Pozole Rojo by Simply Healthy Family
Revved-up Poutine by Jane's Adventures in Dinner
Rice with Pork and Pineapple by Basic N Delicious
San Francisco Cioppino by Eat, Drink and be Tracy
Seattle-Style Dungeness Crab Roll by Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Tex-Mex Cheese Enchiladas with Chile con Carne by The Texan New Yorker
The Pittsburgh Devonshire Sandwich by Seduction in the Kitchen
Upper Peninsula Pasties by Recipes Food and Cooking
Victory Pig Sicilian Style Pizza by Rants From My Crazy Kitchen
Xiang La Tu Zi // Hot & Spicy Rabbit by Curried Canteloupe

Side Dishes

1905 Salad by Supper for a Steal
Chicken Rice Pilaf by Crazy Foodie Stunts
Classic Italian Risotto in Bianco by La Bella Vita Cucina
Greek Salad with Potato Salad by Ruffles & Truffles
Korean Steamed Eggs by Hip Foodie Mom
Smoke House Cheesy Garlic Bread by Peaceful Cooking

Desserts

Apple Crisp by Serena Bakes Simply From Scratch
Buckeye Cupcakes by Desserts Required
Carob Bumpy Cake by Pies and Plots
Chocolate Earthquake Cake by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Chocolate Pocky Cake by NinjaBaker
Grandma Sweeney's Chocolate Cream Pie by Lifestyle Food Artistry
Lemon Buttermilk Bundt Cake by Alida's Kitchen
Memories of Mom; Michigan Apple Cake by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Mile High Strawberry Pie by Cindy's Recipes and Writings
Pear Parkin by Happy Baking Days
Vegan Timbits by Killer Bunnies, Inc
Vernors Cake by Country Girl in the Village

Wishing you a safe place to return daily and know you are always loved.

The Ninja Baker

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

Follow Ninja Baker @NinjaBaking's board NinjaBaker.com Sweets on Pinterest.

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Chicken Ramen Mini Casseroles, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sun, 11 Jan 2015 06:35:07 +0000

Ramen. The Japanese noodles are everywhere. First I thought LA’s love affair with ramen was exclusive to this City of Angels. However, after traveling across this (mostly) great United (sometimes) States of America, I see Japanese ramen noodles nodding hello from the Asian aisles in supermarkets in even the sleepiest seaside towns.

The Ninja Baker's Chicken Ramen Mini Casseroles

America’s welcome of the ubiquitous Japanese ramen makes sense. Ramen is a DIY fast food. Ripping open a package of ramen is a relief for a multi-tasking mom or for the college student burning the midnight oil. Plus, like any do-it-yourself project, the crafter has the power to decorate ramen noodles with whatever topping is desired.

Here are a few suggestions of how to serve up Japanese ramen noodles with panache.

This weekend I created Chicken Ramen Mini Casseroles…It’s raining in LA – classic comfort food weather! What better way to enjoy the pitter-patter of rain harmonizing with the hissing heater?

Ramen swirled in creamy chicken soup with veggies and chunks of chicken.

My chicken ramen mini casseroles are baked in ramekins. Creamy Campbell’s Soup goodness hugs green peas, carrots, corn, roasted chicken in a nest of ramen noodles. Another plus, for those of us who have repeatedly heard, “Patience is a virtue that will never hurt you.” In less than 30 minutes, you and yours can dig into steaming hot chicken ramen mini casseroles. In other words, my recipe creates extra time to put your feet up and enjoy another episode of Downton Abbey. (The British import is a glorified soap opera. But, sooooo engaging and addictive.) Which show would you watch with your chicken ramen mini casserole?

Chicken Ramen Mini Casseroles

Low on time? Highly concerned about health and deliciousness?

Chicken ramen mini casseroles are your kid-friendly solution.

My chicken ramen mini casseroles are also a fantastic way to use leftovers in a flavorful fashion!

Adapted from Campbell Soup's Hearty Chicken & Noodle Casserole recipe.

Ingredients:

1 packet (3 ounces) ramen noodles
1 cup mixed vegetables, cooked and cubed
½ cup coconut milk
1 can (10 ¾ ounces) fat free cream of chicken soup
1 cup roasted chicken, finely shredded

Directions:

1. Boil ramen noodles (without the seasoned soup packet) in 2 cups of water. Drain.
2. In a large pan, over medium-low heat, gently stir together the ramen, veggies, coconut milk, soup and chicken.
3. Divide the casserole contents into 5 ramekins (rubbed with coconut oil or greased with butter.)
4. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 20 minutes.
5. Serve hot and savor the smiles of happiness on the faces of friends and family.

Mommy, TV star and blogger Alice of A Mama, Baby & Shar-pei in the Kitchen hosts our captivating casserole themed #SundaySupper at Twitter today. (Scroll down for your invite to the virtual table.) If you visit A Mama, Baby & Shar-pei in the Kitchen , you'll see Alice is an awesome mommy, wife and food aficionado! Here's the fantastic list of yummy casseroles she's assembled for #SundaySupper!

Captivating Breakfast Casseroles

Boozy Baked French Toast from Brunch with Joy
Orange & Date Wife Saver Breakfast Casserole from A Mama, Baby & Shar-pei in the Kitchen
Spinach, Sausage and Polenta Breakfast Casserole from The Redhead Baker

Appetizing Casserole Sides

Baked Cauli-Tots Casserole from Cupcake and Kale Chips
Savory Sweet Potato and Sausage Bread Pudding from Nik Snacks
Shredded Brussels Sprouts Casserole from Take A Bite Out of Boca

Main Event Casseroles

Artichoke and Spinach Macaroni and Cheese Casserole from Ruffles & Truffles
Baked Penne with Roasted Cauliflower and Italian Sausage from Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
Bison Meatloaf Casserole from Jane's Adventures in Dinner
Cheesy Chicken Corkscrew Casserole from Recipes Food and Cooking
Cheesy, Creamy, Cauliflower and Sausage Casserole from Eating In Instead
Chicken Enchiladas from Serena Bakes Simply From Scratch
Chicken Parmesan Quinoa Bake from Alida's Kitchen
Chicken Ramen Mini Casseroles from The Ninja Baker
Chicken with Whole Grains Casserole from Cindy's Recipes and Writings
Chinese Noodle Casserole from Momma's Meals
Crab Casserole for Two from Magnolia Days
Homemade Poppy Seed Chicken from Food Done Light
Fully Loaded Tater Tot Casserole from Culinary Adventures with Camilla
King Ranch Casserole from The Texan New Yorker
King Ranch Mac and Cheese from The Weekend Gourmet
Baked Ziti with Meatballs from Curious Cuisiniere
Mexican Lasagna from MealDiva
Mom's Taco Casserole from Lifestyle Food Artistry
Moroccan Polenta Casserole from Pancake Warriors
Moussaka from Nosh My Way
Neeps & Tatties Casserole from Happy Baking Days
Quick No Boil Tuna Pasta Bake from Mess Makes Food
Sausage Peppers and Onion Pasta Casserole from Family Foodie
Southwestern Spaghetti Pie from The Messy Baker
Cheesy, Layered Italian Pasta Torta from La Bella Vita Cucina
Stove-top Four Cheese Mac and Cheese from The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
Supreme Pizza Strata from A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
Sweet Corn and Green Chile Chicken Tamale Pie from Simply Healthy Family
Taco Casserole from Peanut Butter and Peppers

Decadent Dessert and Sweet Casseroles

Baked Lemon Dessert from Food Lust People Love
The Best Homemade Cinnamon Rolls from Pies and Plots
Butterscotch Bread Pudding from The Foodie Army Wife
Classic Apple Crisp from That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Ultimate Deep Dish Brownies from Recipe for Perfection
Vegan Oreo Rice Krispie Treats from Killer Bunnies, Inc

Wishing you ramenlicious days of rapture.

The Ninja Baker

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

Follow Ninja Baker @NinjaBaking's board NinjaBaker.com Savories on Pinterest.

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Paleo Pound Cake, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sat, 27 Dec 2014 00:24:29 +0000

Is a year ever wrapped up with a neat little bow? Are you still basking in the gratitude of unexpected gifts? Or are you grappling with unforeseen circumstances? Maybe it’s a bit of both. 2014 brought the exhilarations and unexpected lessons of first time home buying for husband, David and me.

Our (now former) Boulder, Colorado condominium.
If you're interested in one of the top school districts in the country, we now have a beautiful home for rent here.

Also, thanks to a sweet friend, I’ve renewed my Screen Actors Guild membership and am reacquainted with the joys of acting. And, as always, doing my best to keep my eyes focused on driving in my lane. My ego seems to need frequent reminders to take a back seat. Sometimes it’s a nudge; other times it’s a shove!

Paleo Pound Cake: Surprisingly similar to the real stuff!

One thing I could not sweep aside at year’s end was my health. Blood tests revealed the accumulation of bad choices. The bottom line: Sugar intake must drop and protein intake needs to increase. (Dramatic, somewhat traumatic events, for a sweet-toothed mostly vegetarian Ninja Baker.) Apparently, the Japanese diet of sticky white rice, tofu, a little fish and giant frozen yogurts with Oreos is not the best option for this body. (Confession: I've still got vanilla and chocolate Oreos in my freezer...Maybe I'll toss them by 2015...We'll see.)

This Paleo Pound Cake to quote Mary Poppins is "practically perfect in every way."

Enter the husband, David, with his Paleo friendly e-cookbooks….Nooooooo, I’m not giving up brown rice or gluten-free breads or Greek yogurt. But the Paleo e-cookbooks do contain some good-looking sugar free desserts. Plus, David’s been craving a Paleo friendly dessert. My husband is the hero who’s signed me up with a weekly visit to a nutritionist. So the fellow deserves a sweet reward, right?

Paleo Pound Cake with paleo approved raspberry garnish!

I started with this Paleo Pound Cake recipe. It’s no Sara Lee. The cake is moister and less dense. In all fairness, the density factor may have something to do with the use of granulated rather than powdered erythritol. (Seriously, I am over the moon that this magical and healthy substitute for sugar is in my life!) The Paleo Pound Cake is similar in taste to a regular pound cake. The recipe gives the option of coconut oil or grass-fed sourced butter. You can bet I used the butter! (I do have a bit of a rebellious streak at times…That’s what happens when you separate a Ninja Baker from her Oreos!) At any rate, whether you’re going Paleo, counting calories and praying to fit into that summer swimsuit, this pound cake is for you.

Cindy of Cindy's Recipes and Writings is our host today of a year-end cravings fulfilled themed #SundaySupper. (Scroll down for your invite to the virtual #SundaySupper at Twitter.) Cindy is a fabulously talented chef. She's made sure your cravings for every season are satisfied.

Comfort Food Cravings

- Beef Tenderloin Citrus Arugula Salad from Family Foodie
- Chunky Beef Chili from MealDiva
- Cowboy Candy and Cream Cheese from Rhubarb and Honey
- Creamy Veggie and Chip Dip from La Bella Vita Cucina
- Golabki (Polish Cabbage Rolls) from Healthy. Delicious.
- Jalapeno Poppers Wrapped in Bacon from Peanut Butter and Peppers
- Lightened and Loaded Potato Soup from Momma's Meals
- Prime Rib Roast from Confessions of a Culinary Diva
- Roasted Cashews & Walnuts with Honey and Herbs from Delaware Girl Eats
- Russian Black Bread from Curious Cuisiniere
- Sausage and Cheese Stromboli from Casa de Crews
- Steak and Eggs from Nosh My Way
- Steak Tartare from The Texan New Yorker
- Swiss Onion Bread from The Foodie Army Wife

Quench Your Thirst Cravings

French 75 Cocktail from Ruffles & Truffles
Sparkling Peach Cocktail from Magnolia Days

Seafood Cravings

Crab Artichoke Bread from Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
Mussels in Coconut Broth with Garlic Toasts from The Wimpy Vegetarian
Seafood Scampi from Cindy's Recipes and Writings

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Cravings

Apple Bundt Cake from Pancake Warriors
Dark Chocolate Potato Chip Fudge from Nik Snacks
Dulce de Leche Rice Krispy Treats from Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Hot Chocolate Milky Way Brownie Pie from Take A Bite Out of Boca
Lower-Sugar Carrot Cake Jam from What Smells So Good?
Maple Syrup Creme Brule from Jane's Adventures in Dinner
Mint Infused Deep Dish Brownies from The Perfect Brownie
Paleo Pound Cake from NinjaBaker
Pizzelle from Eat, Drink and be Tracy
Sweet Potato Sheet Cake from Pies and Plots

Wishing you great health and happiness!

The Ninja Baker

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

Follow Ninja Baker @NinjaBaking's board NinjaBaker.com Sweets on Pinterest.

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Rum Glazed Cookie Cream Buns, #SundaySupper

NinjaBaker — Sun, 14 Dec 2014 08:02:00 +0000

Drunk on the joys of the season, I created Rum Glazed Cookie Cream Buns. Doughnut textured buns stuffed with cookie cream, smothered with rum glaze and topped with Japanese cookie crumbles, Rum Glazed Cookie Cream Buns are this Ninja Baker’s celebration of Christmastime dessert!

Japanese sables garnish Pillsbury Bake-Off inspired cookie cream buns glazed with rum icing.
The Japanese butter sable cookie package reads, "The parent-child snack for Mama and me."
Indeed, the cookie has delighted generations of children...including this Ninja Baker and her nieces and nephews!

The recipe is adapted from Pillsbury Bake-Off finalist, Megan Beimer’s Chocolate Doughnut Poppers. Her beauties are crammed with Nutella (hazelnut chocolate cream) glazed with vanilla icing and sprinkled with nuts. As a plate of cookies and a goblet of rum were set forth for Santa every Christmas Eve in our Tokyo home, rum glaze replaced vanilla flavored icing and cookie cream took the place of chocolate Nutella. (Carrot sticks were also prepared for Rudolph and the reindeer gang.) What traditions continue to delight you during the Christmas / Hanukah holidays?

Marriage brings the blessing of two traditions becoming one...David and me on the day of his proposal.

Cookies and rum are a familiar tradition for this Ninja Baker. However, cookie cream was a first. Have you tried the stuff? It tastes exactly like butter cookies but in peanut butter form! Decadent and rich, a teaspoonful goes a long way. Combined with the doughnutty rum-spiked pastry, the cookie cream buns are small but mighty Christmas presents!

Cookie cream inside and Japanese sable cookies are crumbled
on top of this rum spiked glazed sweet!

Besides the heady pleasure of doughnutty rum-spiked cookie cream buns, the true gifts of the season are the smiles and the good feelings, which accompany the holidays. Christmas and Hanukah creativity are at an apex, too. Homes and stores are adorned with strands of lights, stars, wreaths frosted in blue-and-white or red-and-green. The season seems to foster generosity and remembrances of what is right in the world. Do You Hear What I Hear? “A child, a child sleeping in the night will bring us goodness and Light.”

Rum Glazed Cookie Cream Buns

We have Megan Beimer, wife of a US Marine and Pillsbury Bake-Off's finalist, to thank for Rum Glazed Cookie Cream Buns which were inspired by her winning Chocolate Doughnut Poppers. Megan's recipe calls for sheets of seamless refrigerated dough and states that crescent rolls are a fine substitute.

Ninja Note: To avoid cookie cream oozing out of thin dough, blend the lines of the perforated crescent dough together well.

Ingredients:

For the cookie cream buns:
1 can refrigerated crescent rolls
12 rounded teaspoons of cookie cream
2 tablespoons melted butter

For the glaze:
½ cup powdered sugar
4 teaspoons rum

For the garnish:
6 or more of your favorite cookies

Directions:

Preheat an oven to 350 degrees. Place parchment paper on cookie sheets.

Unfurl refrigerated crescent rolls onto lightly floured wax paper atop a cutting board. (Or other flat sturdy surface.)

Pinch the perforated seams together.

Divide the dough into 12 rectangles with a pizza cutter.

Paint the edges of the rectangles with melted butter.

Drop a rounded teaspoonful of cookie cream into the middles.

Fold the edges to form a ball. Secure well to ensure no cookie cream seepage.

Place the balls, seam side down onto the cookie sheets.

Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool.

Whisk together the glaze ingredients.

Dip the cookie cream buns into the icing. Garnish with the crumbs of your favorite cookies.
(Pulse 6 or more of your favorite cookies in a food processor. OR place the cookies into a plastic bag and use a roller to crush the yummies into crumbs.)

Keeping everyone in good spirits with their dishes and desserts are the hosts of today's #SundaySupper are Alice of A Mama, Baby & Shar-pei in the Kitchen and DB (aka Foodie Stuntman) of Crazy Foodie Stunts. They've also compiled a list of creative use of treats with alcohol. For your invite to the #SundaySupper at Twitter, please scroll down.

Libations

Big Easy Milk Punch by The Weekend Gourmet
Blue Sparkling Star Cocktail by Hezzi-D's Books and Cooks
Boozy Iced Spanish Coffee by Nosh My Way
Campari Mint Spritzer by eating in instead
Cranberry Moscow Mule by Ruffles & Truffles
Creamy, Loaded Eggnog by La Bella Vita Cucina
Malibu Breeze by Peanut Butter and Peppers
Merry Berry Spritz by Amee's Savory Dish
Minty Lime Rum by A Mama, Baby & Shar-pei in the Kitchen
Pomegranate Panache by Jane's Adventures in Dinner
Rhubarb Fool Cocktail by Food Lust People Love
Southern Pomegranate Sparkler by Noshing With The Nolands
Sparkling Pomegranate Berry Punch by Serena Bakes Simply From Scratch
Vanilla Bailey's With A Twist by Momma's Meals

Savory and Sweet Libational Dishes

Apple Bourbon Pulled Pork Sliders by Curious Cuisiniere
Beerberry Pancakes by Brunch with Joy
Beet Relish by What Smells So Good?
Belgian Beef Stew with Belgian Ale by Cooking On The Ranch
Brandied Triple Cheese Ball by Magnolia Days
Champagne Chicken by Cindy's Recipes and Writings
Cornish Game Hens with Sausage Red Wine Sauce over Polenta by The Texan New Yorker
Craft Beer Jelly by Nik Snacks
Eggnog Dutch Baby Pancakes with Cranberries by The Wimpy Vegetarian
Hot Buttered Rum Balls by Bobbi's Kozy Kitchen
Lentil Soup with Wine Braised Shallots by Pancake Warriors
Red Wine Braised Short Ribs by Cooking Chat

Libational Desserts

Amaretto Coconut Biscotti with Amaretto Salted Caramel Drizzle by Kudos Kitchen by Renee
Amaretto Cranberry Swirled Cheesecake by The Life and Loves of Grumpy's Honeybunch
Baked Pears with a Warm Tequila-Citrus Espuma by Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Bourbon Cranberry Compote by Pies and Plots
Caramelized Banana Upside-Down Rum Cake by Wallflour Girl
Chocolate Stout Beer Brownies by The Perfect Brownie
Dumante Frozen Espresso Creams by Seduction in the Kitchen
Honey Chamomile Hot Toddy Tea Cake by The Girl In The Little Red Kitchen
Kahlua Bundt Cake by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
Red Wine Poached Pears with Ricotta and Balsamic Glaze by Crazy Foodie Stunts
Rum Glazed Cookie Cream Buns by NinjaBaker
Tiramisu Biscotti by The Redhead Baker

Wishing you myriads of reasons to be of good cheer.

The Ninja Baker

The Ninja Baker has guest blogged and contributed recipes to numerous food sites. These additional recipes can be found here.

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