Ru-Dough-lph the Truffle Nosed Reindeer // Christmas Donuts

Welcome to a fun, festive, and easy peasy breakfast post!  This "recipe" requires no baking, only a handful of ingredients, and minimal prep.  Yet, it is sure to put a smile on the face of both the young and young-at-heart!  

As many of you already know, I'm a big fan of donuts.  When planning a girls Hallmark movie day this week I wanted a way to turn this simple favorite into a festive start for our sweet day.  A teensy bit of brainstorming later and I was store bound for ingredients to create Ru-dough-lph the Truffle Nosed Reindeer, Rudolph's distant and oh-so-delicious cousin. ;)

Ingredients:

Donuts  

Pretzels

Milk Chocolate (red wrapped) Lindt Lindor Truffles

Candy Eyes 

I found these with the cake decorating supplies at my local Walmart.

Chocolate Almond Bark (optional)

Steps to Sweetness:

Antlers

Break pretzels to create "antlers".  Stick pretzel antler pieces into the sides of the donut near the top.  

Nose

Stick a truffle in the donut's center to create the nose.  

Eyes

I used a dab of warmed chocolate almond bark to "glue" the candy eyes on, but you could gently press the candy eyes in place if you don't have almond bark on hand.  

That's it!  Now you're all set to gather those "deer" to your heart and kick off the day in a holly jolly way!  

Thanks so much for stopping by!  Wishing you a sweet season!

LINKING UP WITH:

Tif, Della, Becky, Whitney P., and Whitney J. 

for High Five for Friday

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I appreciate each comment, & "like"! They let me know that you enjoyed what you read, which makes it worth sharing! ;)  

Throwback Thursday: Enchiladas Cancun {Easy Cheesy Seafood Fiesta!}

Happy Thursday, friends!  Here's a throwback to a recipe, plus a sweet little story from 1998 when my husband first made this creation of his for me! 
Enchiladas Cancun {Easy Cheesy Seafood Fiesta!} Originally published here on February 26, 2013



In the summer of 1998, my husband (then handsome boyfriend), created this scrumptious recipe and asked to cook for me. We were young and in love, which explains why I was shockingly willing to try this dish, although I normally wouldn't have eaten seafood if someone paid me. To my surprise, it was love at first bite! That's when I knew I must marry this culinary genius. Ok, maybe it also had something to do with how I fit perfectly in his arms, his love for the Lord, and clear adoration of lit'l ol' me, but these mouthwatering enchiladas showed me that this boy could make staying at home feel like a delicious vacation on a plate!

Easy Cheesy Seafood Fiesta Time!

Just 5 Ingredients:

12 ounces of Mexican Cheese 

Two cans of Enchilada Sauce 

10 Flour Tortillas 

8-12 ounces of your preference of: Crab, Shrimp, or even Imitation Crab 

Parsley Flakes

Steps to Creating a Taste Bud Fiesta:

1.  Preheat oven at 400 degrees.

2.  In a large bowl combine cheese, your choice of seafood, one and a half cans of enchilada sauce (reserving half a can to top enchiladas with). 

 3.  Spray 9x13 glass dish with nonstick cooking spray. 

 4. 

 5.  Wrap filled tortilla and place into prepared 9x13 dish, seam side down. Repeat with each of the remaining tortillas and filling. 

6.  Pour remaining half a can of enchilada sauce over the top of enchiladas. 

7.  Sprinkle with parsley flakes. 

8.  Bake in oven for 20-25 minutes. 

9.  Enjoy! ;)


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Five Loves on Friday // Family Fun, Cute Bargains, and New Food Faves!

Happy Friday, friends!  Let's get right to those lovely loves, shall we?

One  //  Fun in the Sun!

Love my adorable skating sweeties!

Although the second half of this week has dipped down into Frost Advisory temps, it began beautifully! We took full advantage of the warm weather and sunny skies last weekend with family time at the lake, rollerblading, & popsicles!  It was a sweet preview of the summer fun to come!

Two  //  Draper James + Tervis

Last week I mentioned ordering one more thing from Draper James while they ran their "Lucky You" Sale.  As expected that happy mail has made my loves list this week!  This wasn't a discounted item, however they did offer free shipping sitewide during the sale (which normally starts at $10) so I took advantage of that!

Cherry Tervis Tumbler Set

These are my first Tervis cups.  You'll soon see they aren't my last! ;)  I love that they keep my drinks and ice cold for extended periods, are super cute, dishwasher safe, and are backed with a lifetime warranty!  

Three  //  Ready for Summer Dinners on the Deck

Celebrate Summer Together Cups // Celebrate Summer Together Salad Plate in Havana

I love having fun plates and cups to serve my family and friends with.  I scored such a deal on these new additions to my summer stash!  I paired Kohl's promo codes for 30% off and free shipping with already discounted sets, bringing these cups down to 87 cents each and $1.75 per pretty pineapple plate!  Not too shabby considering that at full price for these sets of four would have ran me $30!  Oh, how I love a good bargain!

Four  //  Slow Cooker Asian Pulled Pork Tacos

If you follow me on Instagram you may have seen this yumminess last night.  As promised, I'm excited to pass on the recipe link to that deliciousness today! 

  

Direct Link to Recipe:

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Asian Tacos with Peanut Slaw // Well Plated by Erin 

If you're a fan of Asian flavors and tacos, I highly recommend you click through, add those ingredients to your shopping list, and give it a go!  I think your taste buds will thank me later and what can I say except... 

Five  //  My New Favorite {Low Calorie} Ice Cream

I've heard so much hype about how good Halo Top is, yet being a low(er) calorie treat I was a bit skeptical that it could really taste as good as typical ice cream.  After picking up some at Walmart this week I'm here to tell you that one spoonful in I was sold!  This stuff is so yummy!  Compared to Ben & Jerry's version which packs over a 1000 calories per pint, I can say that the inside label which reads, "No Bowl  No Regrets", is a true story!  In my opinion (and to my surprise) it lives up to the hype!  

Wishing you the sweetest of weekends ahead! Thanks so much for popping by the blog today!   It's a treat to have you here!

Throwback Thursday // Cadbury Spring S'more Mix

Happy Thursday, friends!  Today I'm excited to throw it back to one of my tastiest (& most adorable) snack creations to date! 

Cadbury Spring S'more Mix

Originally written & published here on March 18, 2013

If you're excited about SPRING and you L-O-V-E  S'MORES (that should be everyone, right?! ;)) ... then have I got the snack for YOU! 

This simple 3-ingredient mix is a fun twist on traditional s'more flavors. The addition of Cadbury creme, cheerfully colored bunny mallows, and the adorable factor of each lit'l Teddy Graham, ensure that this celebratory snack will have your taste buds shouting, "HELLO, SPRING!"

MIX: 
Mini Cadbury Eggs  A highlight of Spring. They rank right up there with waking to the song of chirping birds, and being able to stand outside for a full ten minutes without getting frostbite. ;)   

Bunny Mallows!  Cutest. Marshmallows. EVER! They help to create a cheerfully colored mix. Bunny mallows are vanilla flavored which is important! Other colored mini marshmallows are fruit flavored, which wouldn't quite give ya that s'mores-y taste we're going for here. ;) 

Teddy Grahams  Absolutely adorable and perfect for Spring as they're quite lively and flavorful after a long winter in hibernation! 

 MIX TOGETHER & ENJOY! Be sure to share with anyone you'd like to see smile or hear exclaim, "CUTE!" and "Mmm!" 

  4 WAYS TO SHARE THIS ADORABLY SWEET TREAT:  

1. Gifted in mason jars. 

2. Presented in a cute basket at your Easter gathering. Place a stack of Easter/Spring cupcake liners beside it, ready to be filled with yummy goodness. 

3. Rest a cute cupcake liner inside a clear cup. Fill with mix. Wrap with cellophane or cut the top off a ziplock bag and slip the cup inside bag. Gather the open top of bag and tie a sweet ribbon into a bow to secure. 

4. Tucked inside those bright plastic eggs and included in Easter baskets, or used in egg hunts! 

 *TIP: Prepare it just before sharing it - both to keep it fresh, and because once taste tested you may find it extremely difficult to resist! (Not that I would know, or anything. ;))

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Throwback Thursday: Most-Requested Crockpot Macaroni & Cheese (5 Ingredients to YUM!)

Today I'm pleased to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you!  This is a cinch to put together and always a hit at any party or family dinner!  I hope you'll pin, whip up sometime soon, and most of all, enjoy!

Most-Requested Crockpot Macaroni & Cheese

(5 Ingredients to YUM!)

Originally written and published here on February 5, 2103

You know that one recipe that you're known for? The delicious dish that shortly after receiving an invite to a gathering you're asked, "Would you please bring..." That recipe you've had so many requests for that you could write it out in your sleep. This is mine. I'm pleased to share with you my most-requested crockpot macaroni and cheese! It could not be simpler, yet when it's done, your taste buds couldn't be happier!

MOST-REQUESTED CROCKPOT MACARONI & CHEESE

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/2 cups of large elbow macaroni 

1 cup Velveeta, cubed 

1 can whole kernel corn, undrained 

2 cans cream corn, undrained 

1 stick of butter/margarine, melted 

*This recipe is written as I prepare it for serving my family at home. When serving larger crowds I normally double or triple all ingredients (except butter, 1 stick is always good ... unless you may be serving Paula Deen! ;))

Steps to Creating Cheesy Happiness:

1. Spray crockpot. 

2. Place all of the ingredients in the crockpot. 

3. Stir everything together. 

4. Cover and cook on high for 2 1/2 hours. {Stirring occasionally} 

5. EAT, ENJOY ... & be sure to SHARE! ;)

Wishing you cheese covered forks & happy taste buds!,
Brenda


Thanks for stopping by! Don't be shy. Please say, "HI!"

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Throwback Thursday // Next Stop: Cheesy Eggilicious BACON-Y GOODNESS!

Happy Thursday, friends!  This morning I'm throwing it back to the very first recipe I ever shared here!  I remember what an exciting time that was as I'd just started Chatting Over Chocolate 8 days prior and began sharing my posts at link parties and mingling with other bloggers.  I was tickled pink to have this recipe featured at four link parties that month!  As fun as that all was, those aren't the reasons this post is a favorite to throw back to.  I love this one because it is my husband's favorite dish!  In fact, I made two this week, one for a Valentine Brunch and the other as a gift of leftovers for my Valentine to enjoy throughout the week.  Today I'm happy to (re)pass on this simple, yet beloved family favorite!  If you try it, I hope you'll enjoy it every bit as much as we do!  

Next Stop:  Cheesy Eggilicious BACON-Y GOODNESS!

Originally written and published here on Saturday, January 12, 2013

HELLO, WEEKEND!  Aren't Saturdays absolutely glorious?!  Well, I know just the thing to get them off to an even better start!  SUPER SIMPLE and MIGHY DELICIOUS QUICHE!

I believe this recipe originally came from an old Bisquick cookbook, and is barely adapted from that. It's my husband's hands-down FAVORITE meal! Not just for breakfast, also for second breakfast, elevensees, lunch, with afternoon tea, and for supper! ;) 

Okay, I won't keep you in suspense any longer. Let's get right to it! ... 

Just 5 Ingredients:
8 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled) 
5 ounces shredded swiss 
2 cups milk 
3/4 cup bisquick mix 
4 eggs


Steps to Creating the Yumminess:
1.  Preheat oven at 350 degrees. 
2.  Spray a pie plate with non-stick spray. 
3.  Sprinkle the delicious bacon (try to resist eating it during this task, IF possible) and cheese, evenly over bottom of pie plate. 
4.  Grab yourself a decent size bowl and blend together milk, bisquick, and eggs. 
5.  Pour over bacon and cheese in pie plate. 
6.  Bake in oven for 1 hour or until a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. 
7.  Let it sit for 5 minutes. (This is a tough step. Just use this time to set the table or something ;)) 
8.  E N J O Y ! ...& be sure to share with others who love yumminess too!

...Sorry, I've never been one to follow the "Don't play with your food!" rule. ;*)

Five Loves on Friday + Nutella Puppy Chow Recipe!

Happy first Friday of February, friends!  I'm so excited this month has arrived!  Bring on all the hearts, pink & red, lace and love!  This morning I'm looking forward to sharing about January's fab finish and the sweet start we've enjoyed to this fresh new month.  Five Loves time!

One // Date Night

As I shared in my last Five Loves post, last Friday night was to be an exciting one for every member of our fam!  Our oldest daughter was heading off to for a weekend retreat with her youth group while our youngest went on her merry way to Grandma and Grandpa's for a sleepover.  This left Jason and I with an empty house, party of two!  Woohoo for date night!

I'm such a seasonal person.  In the summertime I want to be outside as much as possible.  This time of year when it's freezing outside there is nowhere I'd rather be than cozy at home.  Staying in is the new going out, you know! ;)  That being said, we ordered takeout from our favorite Thai restaurant and settled in for dinner and a movie, followed by some homemade frozen margaritas.  My husband makes the best!  It was a wonderfully refreshing evening alone with my favorite man on the planet!

Chicken Pad Thai and Egg Rolls ... YumYumYum!

Two // Special Time with our Littlest Sweetie

While our oldest was away having a fantastic weekend at her Youth Group Winter Retreat, our youngest was delighted to have mommy and daddy all to herself from Saturday morning on.  We celebrated her unbirthday by allowing her to choose every bit and bite of our day's meals and agenda!

For lunch she chose takeout from Qdoba to be enjoyed in an in-car picnic at the lake.  She is so a girl after my own queso loving heart!  I tried their new Habanero BBQ Brisket 3-cheese nachos and my taste buds threw a dance party! 

So, SO good!

While enjoying our cozy (heated car) picnic our lunchtime entertainment was provided by some magnificent eagles flying overhead and lounging on the frozen lake before us.  I totally kicked myself for not bringing my camera's zoom lens!  The eagles are usually chilling on the melting ice of the lake mid-February.  Their early hang out there was so cool to catch, even if I wasn't prepared to capture it.

Meanwhile on the other side of the state, our oldest sweetie was having a ball ice skating and tobogganing down slides onto another frozen lake!

I'm hiding her friends' faces with smilies, but trust me they really were smiling! ;)

When we arrived back home Little One requested some daddy/daughter gaming fun so they grabbed controllers and played some Overwatch.  Insert my laundry folding, tv watching, chilling in comfy clothes time here.

That Evening...

Little One chose fun food and a family flick!  

Raising Cane's Chicken and Disney's Pete's Dragon

The three of us thoroughly enjoyed watching this heartfelt movie all snuggled up together under a pile of blankets!  

It was so sweet having a full day and evening alone with our littlest girly.  She soaked up all the attention and we loved giving her every bit of it!

* I can't help but squeeze this in here between 2 & 3! *

The fondest memories are made and shared when gathered around the table!

Sunday afternoon Princess returned home from her weekend Winter Retreat.  She had the best time and we loved hearing every detail she had to share with us over a celebratory homecoming feast of delicious ribs Jason smoked for our Sunday dinner!  

Three  //  Celebrating My Mom's Birthday

Midweek we visited my mom for an extra special lunch date as it was her birthday!  She runs an in-home daycare and all the families she works for were so kind.  Her home was filled with balloons, gifts, cards, and best of all, a special cake my beautiful sister baked and covered in cute sprinkles for the occasion!  We sang, chowed, and enjoyed a lovely time celebrating her!

Happy Birthday Week, Mom!  We love you!

Four  //  Girls Nights!

My husband has been away on business the past few days.  (When I publish this post we'll be just a few hours away from picking him up from the airport! Hooray for a homecoming party today!)  I miss him like crazy when he's away, but always try to make the most of the special time I have alone with our girls!  

We had a pizza pajama party, laughed til our sides ached, played our favorite games, and munched on a super scrumptious treat between moves. Wanna hear more about that?  Good, because I can't resist sharing the sweet deets! ...

Five  //  Nutella Puppy Chow

Looking for something sweet to bring to a Super Bowl party this weekend or to munch on while watching Hallmark Channel's Countdown to Valentine's Day?  I've got just the thing!  

Nutella Puppy Chow
Recipe adapted from Around My Family Table's Nutella Buddies recipe.

Ingredients:

9 cups Rice Chex Cereal
1  1/2 cups Nutella
2 TBSP Butter
2 cups Powdered Sugar


Steps to Sweetness:

Put the Chex in a large bowl.  Place the Nutella and butter into a microwave safe bowl and microwave on high for 30 seconds.  Remove, stir, then microwave for an additional 20 seconds.  Take it out of the microwave, give it another stir, then spoon over the Chex.  Gently stir to coat all the Chex with chocolate.  (The Nutella is a bit thick so be sure to continue gently stirring until all the chex is completely coated.  A piece of Chex that's left dry in that bowl won't be able to catch all the sugary goodness to come in the next step!)

Open two gallon size ziplock bags.  Measure out one cup of powdered sugar for each of the two baggies.  Then divide the chocolate covered Chex, placing half of it into each of the two bags.  Zip shut and shake to coat completely in white sugary yumminess.

Spread the puppy chow on parchment paper for a bit to allow it to dry.  Help yourself to a few pieces immediately though, because let's face it, it's irresistible!  Store in an airtight container until and between consuming it with exclamations of "YUMmm!"

If you make this tasty and super tempting treat I hope you enjoy it every bit as much as we did!  I'm whipping up a second batch soon for my youngest daughter to take to a youth group game night tonight.  You know it's good when a second batch is requested in the same week!

*Bonus Love*
I'm being featured today!

This week I'm the featured blogger at my favorite blog link up, High Five for Friday!  I'd like to give a big THANK YOU to my beautiful friends, Tif of Bright on a Budget, Katie at Cup of Tea, and Della of Della Devoted for featuring me and for hosting such a fabulous {link} party each Friday!  Be sure to pop by their blogs today, say, "Hello!", and check out some other fabulous bloggers linking up while you're there.

In case you missed it...

Earlier This Week at Chatting Over Chocolate:

Direct link to this blog post:

Trip Report Tuesday:  California Day 3 // Yosemite National Park

&

Direct link to this blog post:

Throwback Thursday // Thank God for Dirty Dishes

Join me in the adventures to come!

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Linking up with:

  

...If you're visiting from one of these link ups, 

be sure to say, "Hello!"  

I'd love to come check out your Friday favorites too! ;)