Tag: dessert recipes

Dessert Crockpot Recipes for the Holidays

Posted on Mattison McWhorter
Photo by Katie Azi on Unsplash

Slow cookers are great for all sorts of meals, including desserts like:

  • Pecan Pie 
  • Crockpot Fudge 
  • Maple Pumpkin Chex Mix
  • Chocolate Peanut Clusters
  • Monkey Bread 
  • Hot Chocolate

Desserts are arguably the best part of the holidays. It’s a moment of the year when everyone feels like they can indulge their sweet tooth. Although desserts are a great end cap to a meal, oftentimes they can be stressful to make. However, this list of slow cooker-friendly desserts is sure to please and allows you to throw them together easily.

Pecan Pie

Crockpot with pecan pie inside
Courtesy of Spicy Southern Kitchen

To start strong, let’s look at a Southern classic. Pecan pie is a traditional dessert for many holidays in the South. Its ooey-gooey filling is a favorite of so many. Now, you can make it in a crockpot. Follow this recipe from Spicy Southern Kitchen for an easy take on pecan pie.

Ingredients: 

  • 1 refrigerated pie crust 
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar 
  • ⅔ cup dark corn syrup 
  • ⅓ cup melted butter
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt 
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cup chopped pecans

Instructions: 

Spray the inside of your crockpot with cooking spray, and place the pie crust in the crockpot. Even if you have an oval slow cooker, it will still work. Stir the remaining ingredients together, excluding the pecans. Once that is well combined, fold in the pecans, but be sure to leave some out to top the pie. Pour the filling into the crust, and place pecans decoratively on top. Cover the crockpot and cook on high for two and a half to three hours. 

Crockpot Fudge

chocolate fudge
Courtesy of Eating on a Dime

Fudge and the holidays go together seamlessly. So many people make it one of their many holiday candies. However, fudge is sometimes tricky to make and can take some skill. This crockpot fudge recipe from Eating on a Dime makes it so easy! With just three ingredients, give it a try this holiday season!

Ingredients: 

  • 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 12-oz. bags of semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions: 

Spray your crockpot with cooking spray, and then add all the ingredients to the pot. Cover the slow cooker with a dish towel and put the lid on top to help soak up the extra moisture. Cook on low for one and a half to two hours. Be sure to stir every 15 minutes. Once it has all melted together, line a 9×9 baking pan with parchment paper. Spray the paper with cooking spray and pour the melted mixture into the dish. Spread it evenly and gently tap on the counter to eliminate any air bubbles. Let the dish sit for at least two hours to set. Cut into bite-size pieces and enjoy.

Maple Pumpkin Chex Mix

Chex mix made with nuts, fruits, pretzels, and maple
Courtesy of Averie Cooks

There is nothing better than a sweet little snack. This maple pumpkin Chex mix stretches over many more meals than just dessert. It’s the perfect thing to snack on during a holiday move, to put out at a dinner party, or just something to keep all to yourself to satisfy that after-dinner sweet tooth. Plus, it is customizable! You can switch the following ingredients for anything within that category. For example, Averie Cooks says that you could use cranberries, cherries, or raisins for the dried fruit—even mixing one cup each of two.

Ingredients: 

  • 6 cups of Chex cereal
  • 2 cups of dried fruit
  • 2 cups nuts
  • 2 cups pretzels 
  • 1 ½ chopped graham crackers, diced in 1-inch pieces
  • ½ cup melted butter
  • ½ maple syrup
  • ¼ cup packed light brown sugar 
  • 1 – 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice 
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 
  • Salt to taste

Instructions: 

Add the cereal, dried fruit, nuts, pretzels, and graham crackers to your slow cooker. Combine the melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and salt. Whisk to combine. You can decide whether you’d like to use one or two tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice based on how pronounced you’d like the flavor. Slowly drizzle the liquid over the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Cook on high for two hours, stirring every 20 minutes to prevent burning on the bottom. You’ll know it’s done when no more liquid is at the bottom. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet, allowing it to sit for two hours.

Chocolate Peanut Clusters

Chocolate peanut clusters
Courtesy of Desserts on a Dime

This peanut cluster from Desserts on a Dime is truly divine. It is a simple recipe that tastes like something in a handmade dessert shop. What’s the best thing about this recipe? It makes 50 servings! Just a tiny amount of ingredients for a big payoff. This makes it the perfect candy to make and take to all holiday parties! There’s always plenty to go around, and they’re sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Ingredients: 

  • 2 16-oz. containers of salted peanuts
  • 12 oz. semisweet chocolate chips
  • 12 oz. milk chocolate chips 
  • 12 oz. peanut butter chips
  • 24 oz. white almond bark

Instructions: 

Layer all of the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for one hour, stirring every 20 minutes. Once all the ingredients are melted, stir thoroughly to combine. Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to scoop mounds of the clusters onto a cookie sheet lined with wax paper. Let the clusters sit in the refrigerator until the chocolate has set, about one to two hours.

Monkey Bread

Monkey bread in a crockpot
Courtesy of Crazy for Crust

Who says you can’t have dessert for breakfast? This monkey bread recipe would be fantastic for holiday mornings! The cinnamon smell wafting through the house can create such memorable moments. It’s also a great way to set it and forget it so you can be in the moment, not worrying too much about cooking. If that sounds up your alley, check out this crockpot monkey bread from Crazy for Crust.

Ingredients: 

  • 2 cans of cinnamon rolls 
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar 
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon 
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup melted butter

Instructions: 

Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into six pieces. Be sure to set the icing aside. Add the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and cinnamon roll pieces to a gallon ziplock bag. Seal and shake the bag to coat the pieces in cinnamon sugar. In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar and melted butter. Spray your slow cooker with cooking spray, and add the coated cinnamon roll pieces. Pour the butter mixture on top. Place a paper towel over the top and add the lid to help capture moisture. You can cook this on low for two hours or on high for an hour and a half. Either way, be sure to check it halfway through to make sure it is cooking evenly. Once done, drizzle the icing over the top of the now-baked rolls.

Hot Chocolate

Crockpot full of hot chocolate
Courtesy of Wishes and Dishes

The pièce de résistance of any holiday is hot chocolate. Hot chocolate is a beloved beverage that truly makes the holiday season. Instant packets are easy, but this crockpot hot chocolate is the best you’ll ever have. It’s great for serving at parties or with a large family, plus it can be customized. It is rich, sweet, and decadent. Check out how to make the best hot chocolate from Wishes and Dishes.

Ingredients: 

  • 1 ⅕ cups heavy whipping cream 
  • 1 14-oz. can sweetened condensed milk
  • 6 cups milk 
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla 
  • 2 cups milk chocolate chips

Ingredients: 

Stir all the ingredients together in the slow cooker and cook on low for two hours. Stir occasionally to make sure the chocolate chips don’t stick. Once the mixture is heated through and hot, switch it to warm to serve. Garnish with your favorite hot chocolate toppings, like marshmallows, peppermint chips, or whipped cream.

Desserts are a great way to end a night, especially during the holiday season. These crockpot recipes are a fabulous way to make dessert while also having the ease of being present and out of the kitchen. Holidays and desserts go hand-in-hand, so be sure to try one of these mouthwatering recipes.

For Crockpot Fudge, combine sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and vanilla extract in a greased crockpot. Cook on low for 1.5-2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes.

For Maple Pumpkin Chex Mix, mix Chex cereal, dried fruit, nuts, pretzels, graham crackers, melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt in the slow cooker. Customize by choosing your preferred dried fruits and nuts.

To make Chocolate Peanut Clusters, layer salted peanuts, semisweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and white almond bark in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 1 hour, stir, then scoop mounds onto wax paper-lined cookie sheets.

For Crockpot Monkey Bread, cut cinnamon rolls into pieces, coat with cinnamon sugar, and place them in the slow cooker. Pour a mixture of brown sugar and melted butter on top. Cook on low for 2 hours. Drizzle with icing before serving.

Holiday Pear Pairings: Recipes for a Lakeside Gathering

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Photo courtesy of  James Carrier via Sunset

Plump pears wrapped in gold paper are one of the first signs the holidays have arrived. A dessert unto itself, the elegant pear is delicious in any form. Whether poached, baked, or eaten straight from the bin, these nutrient-rich jewels pair exceptionally well with an array of flavors—especially those that come with the hearty comfort foods and decadent sweets of winter. Mix them with warming spices, root vegetables, pungent cheeses, caramelized onions, caramel sauce, and almost any wine. We dare you to find a flavor that doesn’t play nice with pears. And if you’re an inexperienced pear connoisseur, start simple—like with these Oven-Poached Holiday Pears. Baked with tangy cranberries, they can be served as a side dish with ham or turkey or as a tasty dessert with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or frozen yogurt. Visit Sunset for the complete recipe. Here’s to discovering the perfect pearings for your next lakeside get-together.

Ahh-Inspiring Ahi

Photo courtesy of Park Feierbach via Delish

Want a fresh option for your classic ahi tuna salad? Just add a thinly sliced Asian pair to introduce a delicious sweetness that beautifully complements this tender, sushi-grade fish. The simple recipe—Seared Ahi Tuna & Arugula Pear Salad—combines flavors of succulent fresh tuna with spicy arugula, black and white sesame seeds, Persian cucumber, radishes, and crisp pear for a dose of festive holiday flare. Toss with a sweetly tangy dressing made with lime juice, olive oil, sesame oil, honey, and grated ginger for a satisfying starter or small-plate fare. Visit Delish for the recipe.

Sweet & Spicy Sips

Photo courtesy of Boulder Locavore via The Pioneer Woman

Everyone loves a good pitcher cocktail, especially when entertaining for the holidays. A refreshing celebratory winter libation, this White Pear Sangria only takes a few minutes to prepare. Sweet, juicy pears and a mingling of warming spices are what give it a seasonal kick. Just mix a dry white wine—Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, or Chardonnay—with brandy, pear juice or nectar, lime juice, sliced pears, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Tip: Use ripened pears that are firm, not mushy, for ideal flavor and texture. Refrigerate for four to six hours to get the best infusion of flavors. When ready to serve, pour over ice and top off with a splash of ginger ale or ginger beer for a fizzy finish. Add a rosemary sprig and a fresh pear slice for an aromatic holiday essence. Visit Boulder Locavore for this quick and easy recipe.

Savory Sweetness

Photo courtesy of Johnny Miller via Martha Stewart

This velvety-smooth soup combines the subtle sweetness of pears with the nutty earthiness of butternut squash for a delicious starter or a light lunch with a sandwich. Once you taste this unique flavor pairing, you’ll include this Butternut-Pear Soup in your winter menu for years to come. Made with yellow onion, butternut squash, pears, olive oil, salt, and pepper, the soup is complemented with creamy Greek yogurt for a flawless flavor balance. Before serving, drizzle with olive oil and chopped fresh chives for an appetizing—and camera-ready—presentation. Visit Martha Stewart for this recipe that serves six.

Pork Perfection

Photo courtesy of George Barberis via Martha Stewart

Counterbalance the salty goodness of pancetta and pork with succulent braised pears that will amp up the savory juices of this cozy comfort food. For this rustic dish, tender pork loin wrapped in pancetta meets a mélange of flavors, including pears, parsnips, onions, and carrots, to create a satisfying, hearty meal on a chilly winter night. Serve with a loaf of crusty bread and a glass of German Riesling, Chenin Blanc, or Pinot Noir for an unforgettable dinner with friends. Visit Martha Stewart for this amazing recipe. Bon appétit!

Roasted & Rustic

Photo courtesy of Mike Garten via Good Housekeeping

The pleasing combination of roast pears and root vegetables delivers a sweet and savory side dish that can accompany almost any winter meal. Bartlett pears, cored and cut into wedges, blend surprisingly well with red onions and sweet potatoes, especially when coated in olive oil and roasted to a golden brown. A sprinkling of thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper brings a subtle aromatic seasoning to this vegan delight.   Visit Good Housekeeping for this Roasted Sweet Potato, Pear, and Onion recipe.

Spin on Stuffing

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Causey via Cooking Light

A delicious twist on the traditional, this Pear, Sage, and Golden Raisin Stuffing makes a vibrantly fruity flavor statement that can be served alongside meats and poultry. Firm and ripe Bosc pears—ideal for baking—combine with golden raisins, yellow onion, carrots, celery, and fresh sage in this classic sourdough stuffing. Thick-cut bacon sautés the veggies to tasty perfection, and a thick-crusted whole-wheat sourdough loaf ensures optimal liquid absorption and an irresistibly crisp texture. Check out Cooking Light for the recipe.

Sweet Simplicity

Photo courtesy of Antonis Achilleos via Food & Wine

For a simple yet elegant finish to your cozy winter meal, prepare a delectable Pears Poached in Red Wine dessert with dry red wine, sugar, and a few ripe pears. It’s best to select a firm pear variety like Anjou or bosc so the fruit can maintain its shape during the poaching process. Cooking and then soaking for a few hours in the cooled poaching liquid enables the pears to absorb all the flavor. Next, boil the liquid into a syrup and drizzle over each pear along with a dollop of whipped cream if desired. For the recipe, visit Food & Wine.

Sweet Tart

Photo courtesy of Taste of Home

For a simple yet elegant finish to your cozy winter meal, prepare a delectable Pears Poached in Red Wine dessert with dry red wine, sugar, and a few ripe pears. It’s best to select a firm pear variety like Anjou or bosc so the fruit can maintain its shape during the poaching process. Cooking and then soaking for a few hours in the cooled poaching liquid enables the pears to absorb all the flavor. Next, boil the liquid into a syrup and drizzle over each pear along with a dollop of whipped cream if desired. For the recipe, visit Food & Wine.

Toddy Time

Photo courtesy of Greg Dupree via Cooking Light

For a soothing after-dinner elixir, this Lemon-Pear Toddy warms the soul on a winter night. Even better is that it’s quick to make in the microwave. Just combine water, sugar, and a dash of kosher salt—which actually heightens the sweetness, but not excessively. After the mixture boils and the sugar and salt dissolve completely, it’s time to pour in the good stuff. Pear vodka lends a floral fruit flavor, and cognac counterbalances with an oaky richness. Fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract add another layer of bright, aromatic flavors to balance the sweet pear. Serve, toast to the occasion, and sip with friends. To create this delightfully simple cocktail, visit Cooking Light.

Here’s to a sweet and delicious winter season at the lake. Cheers!

Popsicle Recipes for Summer 2021

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Jessica Gavin

During the summer at the lake, there’s nothing like a frozen treat to cool you down. Specifically, popsicles are always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoyed by kids and adults alike, these single-serving handheld desserts are the perfect cure for any overheated person with a sweet tooth. While store bought popsicles like Flavor Ice and Bomb Pops are always a classic, using popsicle recipes to make your own homemade treats is even more fun. Check out these DIY recipes for summer 2021!

Raspberry Popsicles

Photo courtesy of Wanna Come With?

Let’s start out with the simplest recipe. These raspberry popsicles use only two ingredients to get the job done. Icy, fruity, and delicious, the simplicity of these treats is guaranteed to make this dessert a household staple in your lake home. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup of raspberry juice 
  • ½ cup of raspberries 

Directions: In a blender, blend these two ingredients together until the mixture is smooth. Then, pour into the molds and freeze overnight.

Fruit and Yogurt Swirl Pops

Photo courtesy of Country Living Magazine

If you’re looking to stay on the healthier side, these fruit and yogurt swirl pops are perfect. They’re quick, easy to make, and use the same ingredients as you would use in a typical breakfast of yogurt and fruit. More creamy than icy, these swirl pops are are filling — but in a way that’s more refreshing than hearty. 

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound of frozen or fresh fruit 
  • 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar (if you’re using fresh fruit) 
  • 2 cups of vanilla yogurt 
  • Ice pop molds 
  • Ice pop sticks 

Instructions: Puree the fruit and sugar using a food processor until it’s smooth. Pour it into a resealable bag or squeeze bottle. Spoon the yogurt in and squeeze the yogurt and puree mixture into the molds, creating swirls. Insert ice pop sticks and freeze overnight.

Strawberry, Basil, and Honey Paletas

Photo courtesy of Taste of Home

In Mexico, ice cream shops are called paleterias and the frozen treats inside are known as paletas. Similar to a popsicle, Mexican paletas are made from natural fruits such as strawberries and mangoes. Although you can make milk-based paletas, this recipe is on the fruitier side. The additional ingredient of fresh basil makes a fun twist on this classic dessert. 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 pounds of strawberries 
  • ⅔ cup of fresh basil 
  • 1 tablespoon of lime juice 
  • ½ cup of raw honey or sweetener 
  • Ice pop molds or paper cups 
  • Popsicle sticks 
  • Blender 

Instructions: chop all strawberries, removing the green stems. Set aside six strawberries. Place the chopped strawberries, basil, and lime juice into a blender and blend until smooth. Add the sweetener to the mix and blend again. Finally, put the remaining strawberry slices into the mold and add the fruit mixture. Cover mold, insert sticks, and chill overnight.

Rainbow Popsicles

Photo courtesy of The First Year

Even though Pride month is over, that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy rainbow popsicles all year round! This multi-layered popsicle recipe is as vibrant as it is delicious. However, it’s worth noting that this one is particularly involved. You’ll need several different types of fruit, so this one is perfect after a trip to the farmer’s market! 

Ingredients 

  • For all layers: ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla) water for blending 
  • Red layer: 1 frozen banana, ½ cup frozen raspberries, ½ cup frozen strawberries
  • Orange layer: 1 frozen banana, ½ cup frozen peaches, 1 small orange, ¼ cup frozen mango 
  • Yellow layer: 2 frozen bananas, 1 cup frozen pineapple
  • Green layer: 2 frozen bananas, 1 handful of spinach, 1 cup frozen pineapple
  • Blue layer: 2 frozen bananas, 1 cup frozen pineapple, small amount of blue food coloring
  • Purple layer: 1 frozen banana, 1 cup frozen mixed berries
  • Magenta layer: 1 frozen banana, ½ cup sliced canned beets 
  • 1 cup frozen strawberries or raspberries 

Instructions: Blend each smoothie as a layer. Then, scoop the mixtures into the molds in the correct order. Add the sticks once the molds are filled and freeze the popsicles overnight.

Watermelon Popsicles

Photo courtesy of Eat Simple Food

There’s no fruit that screams “summertime” quite like watermelon. While this tasty fruit is delicious in its own right, watermelon in popsicle form is bound to be your new seasonal craving. This popsicle recipe is super easy and only takes about 20 minutes to make. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 small watermelon (seedless) 

Instructions: Cut off the watermelon rind and toss it. Cut the watermelon into cubes, then place in the blender. Once it’s smooth, pour it into popsicle molds, leaving some space at the top for sticks. Freeze for at least 4 hours!

Star-Spangled Sugar: 4th of July Dessert Recipes for 2021

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of The Organized Mom

It’s Independence Day — the quintessential summer holiday to spend at the lake! Between boat rides in the sun, watching fireworks, and grilling in the backyard, there’s so much to love about this day. One of the most fun ways to celebrate the 4th of July is making themed summer treats. Last year, we served up several cocktail recipes with a unique revolutionary flare. This year, we’re whipping up some festive desserts. Check out these delicious recipes that will have your guests coming back for seconds!

Red White and Blue Poke Cake

Photo courtesy of Betty Crocker

It’s America’s birthday — so what kind of dessert is more appropriate than a cake? As its name suggests, a poke cake involves poking holes into a baked cake. From there, you fill it with a liquid-like pureed fruit, chocolate cream, or pudding. The result is more flavorful and moist than your average cake. The filling is red gelatin for this recipe, allowing the festive colors to seep into the entire cake. Check out this easy recipe from Betty Crocker. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 box of white cake mix (calls for water, vegetable oil, and eggs) 
  • 1 box (3 oz) strawberry-flavored Jell-O
  • 1 cup of boiling water 
  • ½ cup of cold water
  • 1 box of white chocolate-flavored Jell-O instant pudding  
  • ½ cup cold milk 
  • 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip frozen whipped topping 
  • 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries 
  • ½ cup fresh blueberries 

Directions: Heat the oven to 350 degrees and bake the cake. Cool for 20 minutes, then poke holes almost to the bottom of the cake, spacing the holes out by ½ an inch. Stir gelatin and boiling water in a bowl, stir in cold water and pour the mixture on the cake. Refrigerate for 3 hours. Then, beat the pudding mix and milk and use as a whipped topping. Add strawberries and blueberries in a flag shape on top.

Star-Spangled Red, White, and Blue Slab Pie

Photo courtesy of Pillsbury

No baked dessert says “All American” quite like a pie. From Pillsbury, this 4th of July dessert is easy to make, refreshing, and delicious. The assortment of fruit flavors boasts patriotic colors in celebration of this holiday, and the lemon flavor adds the perfect amount of citrus. Take a look at the full recipe from Pillsbury. 

Ingredients: 

  • 3 crusts from 2 boxes of refrigerated Pillsbury pie crusts (2 count) softened as directed on box 
  • ¼ cup of sugar 
  • 2 packages (8 oz each) of cream cheese, softened 
  • 2 containers (6 oz each) of Yoplait original lemon burst yogurt 
  • Juice and grated peel of 1 lemon (3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon peel) 
  • 6 cups assorted berries (sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries)
  • 1 cup strawberry glaze (from 13.5 oz container) 

Directions: Place pie crust into an oven preheated to 450 degrees. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes and allow to cool for 30 minutes. In the meantime, take out another pie crust from the pouch, cut stars using cookie cutters, and bake for 5-7 mins. In a medium bowl, beat the remaining ingredients (besides berries) with a mixer and spread into the crust-lined pan. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Finally, mix and glaze the berries in a bowl and spoon over the top of the pie.

American Flag Rice Krispie Treats

Photo courtesy of Quarto Knows

The only thing better than a classic Rice Krispies treat is one in the shape of the American flag. This simple recipe is fun for both kids and adults alike. With easy ingredients and just a hint of food coloring, you’ll have the perfect summer treat to share with your family and friends. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 stick of butter 
  • 2 bags of marshmallows (10 oz. bags) 
  • 10 cups of Rice Krispies cereal 
  • Food coloring 
  • White star sprinkles

Directions: In a large bowl, melt butter and marshmallows. Then separate the mixture into 3 bowls, with one disproportionately smaller (for the blue part of the flag). Then, color the mixture with red, white, and blue food coloring. From there, pour in the Rice Krispies and mix, then place into 9×13 pans, then let chill for a few hours. Swap the Rice Krispies between pans so that the stripes and stars are arranged in the shape of a flag. Enjoy!

Loaded Red, White, and Blue Cookie Bars

Photo courtesy of Pillsbury

If you’re looking for a treat that’s easy to bring on board a boat, try baking red, white, and blue cookie bars. These 4th of July desserts are best enjoyed alongside some vanilla ice cream to cool you down after a long day out in the sun. One of the best parts about these bars is that they’re packed with sweet flavors. Oreos, M&M’s, chocolate chips, and sprinkles add delicious variety to these pastries. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 roll of refrigerated sugar cookies
  • 3 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 
  • 8 Golden Oreo sandwich cookies, coarsely crushed (1 cup) 
  • ½ cup red, white, and blue M&M’s candy-coated milk chocolate candies 
  • ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips 
  • ¼ cup coarsely chopped cocktail peanuts 
  • 2 tablespoons red, white, and blue candy sprinkles
  •  ¼ cup white vanilla baking chips

Directions: Break cookie dough into chunks, add cream cheese and flour, and stir. Then, stir in crushed cookies, candies, chocolate chips, and peanuts. Coat a 9×13-inch pan with baking spray, and spread mixture in bottom of pan. Sprinkle candy sprinkles on top. After baking at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes, allow to cool for 30 minutes. While cooling, microwave the vanilla baking chips until they’re smooth. Then, use a Ziplock bag to ooze the icing over the top of the cookies.

From our lake home to yours, happy 4th of July! We hope you enjoy these tasty treats.