'Tis the Gift to be Gifting: Puppy Chow

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Don't let the name fool you, lovelies ... this treat ain't for puppies!

Known in some parts of the country as Muddy Buddies, I was first introduced to this out-of-this-world treat by my friend (and stylist) Amy Keller.

I've since made it on my own and packaged it for my annual holiday homemade-edible-tasty-treat gift boxes. Let's just say I'm glad I only allow myself to have it once a year because it is addictive. Truly a crowd pleaser!

Puppy Chow

1/2 cup butter  (1 stick) 
3/4 cup peanut butter 
1 bag chocolate chips 
1 (12 oz.) box Chex Cereal (corn or rice) 
3 cups powdered sugar 
1 paper grocery bag or gallon size Ziploc bag 

In a large stockpot melt the butter, peanut butter and chocolate chips together. Stir. Add the box of Chex and stir to coat.  

Place powdered sugar in grocery or Ziploc bag. Pour in cereal mixture and shake until all pieces are coated.

Enjoy!

xx JN

'Tis the Gift to be Gifting: Peanut Blossoms

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Cannot make enough of these little treats this week: pleasing co-workers, friends, family and fashionistas all week long. Super easy recipe with uber-incredible results! Box in 1/2 lb. boxes (typically will hold 6-cookies per box) and tie with holiday-inspired raffia or ribbon bows. (I love the 1/2 lb. boxes with the clear opening so you can see how adorable they are!) This specific recipe has been in my family since I was a wee-one.

Peanut Blossoms

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup peanut butter

1 large egg

1 teaspoon good vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 cup granulated sugar, set aside

48 milk chocolate candy kisses, unwrapped

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Combine 1/2 cup sugar, brown sugar, butter and peanut butter in a large bowl or stand mixer. Beat at medium speed until light and fluffy (about 1-2 mins). Add egg, vanilla, and salt; continue beating until well mixed (1-2 mins). Add flour and baking soda. Continue beating, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 mins).

Shape dough into 1-inch balls. (Trust me, just when you think your dough ball is too small, it’s probably just perfect!) Roll each ball in the 1/4 cup sugar. Place 2-inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. 

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until very lightly golden brown. Immediately press 1 unwrapped chocolate kiss in the center of each cookie. Remove from cookie sheets, cool completely on wire racks.

Makes 4 dozen cookies ... and creates as many happy faces!

xx JN