Puppy Chow

"Puppy Chow" has become a standard snack in our holiday traditions. But it's usually made by my aunt, or sometimes my sister.

I went to make it for the first time myself as a movie-night treat, and was surprised to find I don't even have the recipe. A quick google search directed me to the Chex website, but I decided to post it on the blog so I can look it up easily next time I'm craving it.

The ton of powdered sugar in this snack means a little goes a long way, so I like to make it to share--like tonight's movie night potluck.

9	cups Rice Chex®, Corn Chex® or Chocolate Chex® cereal (or combination)
1	cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2	cup peanut butter
1/4	cup butter or margarine
1	teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2	cups powdered sugar

	Into large bowl, measure cereal; set aside.
	In 1-quart microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter uncovered on High 1 minute; stir. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until mixture can be stirred smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour mixture over cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into 2-gallon resealable food-storage plastic bag.
	Add powdered sugar. Seal bag; shake until well coated. Spread on waxed paper to cool. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.

1 Serving: Calories 210 (Calories from Fat 80); Total Fat 9g (Saturated Fat 4g, Trans Fat 0g); Cholesterol 5mg; Sodium 170mg; Total Carbohydrate 29g (Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 16g); Protein 3g % Daily Value*: Vitamin A 6%; Vitamin C 6%; Calcium 6%; Iron 25% Exchanges: 1 Starch; 1 Other Carbohydrate; 0 Vegetable; 1 1/2 Fat Carbohydrate Choices: 2 MyPyramid Servings: 1 tsp Fats & Oils
*% Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Smores Brownies

I can't take credit for this idea, having read it over at The Big Red Pot, but I am proud of myself for trying something new--and easy. I'm housesitting, and trying to realize the bright side of the logistical negatives. So I'm making a point to enjoy my friend's huge kitchen by trying some new recipes while still on a budget. This one was a no-brainer: line the bottom of a well greased pan with graham crackers, mix up a brownie mix as directed, pour over the grahams, and bake as usual. Top with marshmallows, broil in the oven till brown and bubbly, and enjoy! Indoor smores.

How often do you step out of your culinary comfort zone? Have you tried recipes from this or another blog? Let me know your favorite sources in a comment below.

Pineapple Casserole

I saw a post online over Easter weekend with a recipe that looked delicious. It inspired me to google for a similar recipe, posted here on my Longaberger blog. But I just had a chance to make it myself. This pineapple casserole smelled even better than it looked. I made mine (pictured above) with a cinnamon-raisin bread that added to the mix. It's definitely going to be added to my potluck repertoir. You'll have to invite me over to get a taste!