My Boys and Their Toys

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summer party food round-up

20+ Summer Party Food Recipes!

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With summer right around the corner, it’s time to start party planning! I’m sharing some of our favorite summer party food. These recipes are so good, you won’t be disappointed! I’ll be honest…my mouth was watering as I was writing up this post. There’s everything from juicy burgers to sweet s’mores cookies, cheesecake fruit salad…and that’s just a few of them!

If you want to impress your guests with some options that will have their taste buds in true heaven, this is the list for you. These recipes are so delicious, full of flavor, and must-haves for any summer party.

summer party food round-up

One of my favorite things about throwing a party in the summer is the food. We don’t mess around when it comes to that, ha! With all boys, I have to be creative sometimes. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of inspiration for fun twists on classics anymore. Oh, the joys of the internet! This list of summer party food includes many of my favorites and I hope you enjoy them as much as we do! They’ll likely be some that you continue to prepare throughout the summer. [Read more…]

M&M cake mix Bars Recipe

Easy M&M Cake Mix Bars

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Don’t these look darling? If you’re looking for a sweet treat to make that special someone in your life, these Easy M&M Cake Mix Bars will do the trick! They are great for sharing at the office or surprising your hunny (or kids) at dinner time. Using a shortcut like boxed cake mix helps make this sweet dessert super easy for even the youngest bakers. Print the cake mix bars recipe below!

cake mix bars

M&M Cake Mix Bars

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PUMPKIN

19 Homemade Pumpkin Recipes

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Happy fall ya’ll! With the change in season comes traditions like pumpkin-themed everything! If you’re looking for homemade pumpkin recipes, check out this amazing list below. We have everything from pumpkin pasta to pumpkin desserts and more. Stock up on fresh and canned pumpkin then plan out your flavorful fall menu with these 19 easy pumpkin recipes. They’ll make a perfect addition to your table this fall. Enjoy!

19 Homemade Pumpkin Recipes

homemade PUMPKIN recipes [Read more…]

apple cider recipe

Warm Apple Cider Recipe

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Nothing says welcome to fall like a warm apple cider beverage. 2016 has brought a change to the drink trends with craft beers, wine blends, and fruit flavored beverages. Now that fall is here, it’s time to focus on fall flavors like apples, cinnamon, and pumpkin. A warm beverage, like apple cider, is perfect for the cooler weather, don’t you agree? So let’s get to that apple cider recipe!

warm apple cider recipe

Apple Cider Recipe:

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corn casserole

Easy Corn Casserole Recipe with My New Viking Casserole Pan

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Today’s recipe post is sponsored by Viking.

A few years ago my husband and I were vacationing in Vegas, while there we had the opportunity to dine at Piero’s Italian Restaurant. The restaurant has seen the likes of celebrities from Michael Jordan to Justin Timberlake, and offers a 5 star dining experience. Our meal was perfection to say the least, including an unforgettable creamed corn recipe that Piero’s is known for.

During Thanksgiving at my dad’s this year, my step-moms corn casserole brought me right back to that moment at Piero’s. It was that good! When she shared how simple it was to make, I just had to recreate it for all of you. Viking sent me this beautiful stainless steel casserole pan and I couldn’t pass up making the corn casserole in this stunning pan!

viking casserole pan [Read more…]

#cookingupholidays

3 Ingredient Dessert: Candy Cane Dessert Minis

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Wrap up the holidays with this easy 3 ingredient dessert: Candy Cane Dessert Minis! It makes a perfect treat for New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day, don’t you think?

candy cane dessert minis

I’ve teamed up with Kraft to #SweetenTheSeason by sharing this simple recipe idea with all of you. They have a ton of delicious ideas from appetizers to entrees. And of course my favorite meal – dessert! 🙂

While shopping at Walmart, I picked up the 3 ingredient dessert items.

Here’s what you’ll need:
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spiced-mulled-wine

How to Make Spiced Mulled Wine

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It’s officially winter here in the US! Are looking for a delicious drink to warm you up? Give this tasty homemade Spiced Mulled Wine recipe a try!

Spiced Mulled Wine is especially popular during the holidays in British culture, and fairly easy to make. It’s perfect for cheering you up on a cold, winter day. It’s filled with delicious spices like cinnamon and oranges. Grab this quick recipe below!

spiced mulled wine

Spiced Mulled Wine Recipe

Ingredients [Read more…]

apple pie dessert

Simple Apple Pie Cookie Bars

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What will you be baking for guests this holiday season? While I tend to gravitate towards chocolate desserts, I also enjoy apple pie. This year I decided to put a twist on a classic favorite – Apple Pie Cookie Bars.

apple pie dessert

Since it is a busy season, I don’t always have a lot of time on my hands. Using products like Pillsbury™ Baking mixes are a great way to simplify recipes and save time in the kitchen. What I really like is their new line of Purely Simple™ products that provide a simple homemade taste without colors, preservatives or artificial flavors.  [Read more…]

easy holiday treats

Easy Holiday Treats – Reindeer Cookie Bars Recipe

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Friday was #NationalCookieDay, did you know that? What better way to kick off the month of December than with delicious baking treats! The boys and I were all-in on this festive day and created these fun Reindeer Cookie Bars to inspire all of you to get in the baking mood. 🙂

easy holiday treats

This is a partnered post. All opinions are my own.

These easy holiday treats will be a big hit at the holiday office party or next family get together. Did you know gingerbread cookies can easily be turned into a reindeer face once turned upside down? Yep – it’s true! Read on to grab this delicious recipe below.

First, I headed to Winn-Dixie to the products I needed for the recipe. Betty Crocker pouch cookie mixes are on sale 2 for $4 plus fuel perks! And if you buy 3 products, you can use this .75 off coupon too! [Read more…]

christmas appetizer

Easy Holiday Party Appetizer + Kids Handprint Art Idea

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This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of NABISCO Cookies and Crackers. All opinions are 100% mine.

The holiday menu can be quite the task. Guests expect certain foods depending on the holiday, but it’s always fun to throw a few curve balls like new recipes into the mix. What are you planning for the holiday menu this year? If you’re looking for new and easy recipes, I highly recommend checking out the NABISCO Party Planner website. It’s full of tried and true recipes that are simple and delicious. Plus valuable coupons, tips and more!

christmas appetizer

I’m sharing one of those tasty recipes below. If you like savory appetizers, this recipe for roasted pepper-cheese bites is perfect. It takes just a few minutes to make too!

Roasted Pepper-Cheese Bites

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gluten free cookies

Gluten Free Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #BakeMagicMoments #CollectiveBias

gluten free cookies

The turkey, stuffing and all the Thanksgiving fixin’s are officially behind us. And now it’s time to bake! I love baking cookies, pies and other yummy desserts throughout the month of December. And with two awesome helpers by my side, we couldn’t wait to get started.

mini chefs [Read more…]

marshmallow dessert

Holiday Tips + Amazing Marshmallow Dessert Idea for Thanksgiving!

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This post brought to you by NABISCO Cookies and Crackers. The content and opinions expressed below are that of My Boys and Their Toys.

nilla pb mallow squares

Impress your guests this Thanksgiving with these meal planning tips and amazing marshmallow dessert idea! Whether you’re planning your first or 20th Thanksgiving meal, here’s some ways to make it a success.

Be the Ultimate Party Planner with these Holiday Tips:

  • Plan your menu in advance. There’s nothing like scrambling last-minute to put something together and not having enough ingredients on hand. A few classics to consider: Turkey or Ham, mashed potatoes and a really good dessert.
  • Have a back-up. If one of your dishes falls flat before it hits the table, have a back-up plan. Buy rolls from the bakery incase you burn your crescent rolls, and buy a jar of gravy just incase your homemade version doesn’t pan out.
  • Making your own pie? Prep the dough ahead of time and freeze them until needed.
  • Save oven space by making some of the dishes on the stove top (or asking family/friends to bring a dish). This will keep you on track for dinner at the scheduled time.
  • It’s okay to use some store-bought items. Thanksgiving is about spending time together, so don’t overwork yourself in the kitchen.
  • Don’t forget appetizers. Your guests can’t wait for dinner, but smelling all those delicious meals being created in the kitchen can work up any appetite. Have a few appetizers dishes prepped and ready.
  • Keep the kids busy. Have a classic movie or fun craft station prepped in another room for kids to enjoy.
  • End on a high note – with a delicious dessert (like the one I’m sharing below)!

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candy corn bark

Super Simple Candy Corn Bark

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Every season brings its own scents and flavors. Fall is known for pumpkin everything and delicious apple desserts, but we can’t leave out the delicious candy too! Today I’ve whipped up something super simple: Candy Corn Bark. This recipe is fantastic for holiday parties and potlucks, and the best part is that it only requires 3 ingredients!

How to make Candy Corn Bark

candy corn bark

Candy Corn Bark

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valentines cocktails

His & Her Valentine’s Cocktails with Zevia #GoodSodaLove

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This is a partnered post. All opinions are mine alone.

I was first introduced to Zevia Soda last November during the Wow Summit. I was blown away by the taste!! Since then, our family has gotten hooked on this smarter soda brand, which was born out of hubby’s hometown of Seattle. Zevia uses guilt-free sweeteners like Monk Fruit & Stevia in place of artificial sweeteners and sugar. Zero calories, natural, and great tasting = a trifecta of goodness!

During one of the Wow Summit workshops, the Zevia rep shared tons of knowledge, not only about their zero calorie soda, but fun entertaining recipes too! With 15 soda flavors and counting, there’s endless possibilities you can create. Today I’m sharing two cocktail favorites: Zevia’s Sweet N’ Sassy & our version of a Spiked Rootbeer Float. These make perfect Valentine’s cocktails too!

valentines cocktails [Read more…]

snowman cinnamon rolls

Snowman Sweet Rolls + Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #WarmUpYourDay #CollectiveBias

snowman cinnamon rolls

I am a born and raised Floridian. When the temperatures drop below 60 degrees I become a hermit of sorts. I just don’t like shivering! So when my son had a day off from school recently, and the weather was cold outside, I offered to do a fun activity to warm up our day. Instead of making cinnamon rolls the traditional way, I asked the boys if they would like to make a snowman. They excitedly said, “yes!” 

How to make snowman sweet rolls

  1. Open a package of Pepperidge Farm sweet rolls and place the rolls on a baking sheet.
  2. Begin by removing a small portion of the rolls’ outer layer and set aside. Place that roll on top of another to begin building your snowman.
  3. Next, use the small dough piece you removed from the middle layer to create a scarf for the snowman. Then repeat step 2, removing a larger portion so that the top roll is smaller than the other two.
  4. Place that roll on top of the other two, then use the dough to craft a hat for the snowman.
  5. Bake them as directed on the packaging.

While the sweet rolls are baking, I whipped up this killer cream cheese icing recipe. It takes just a few minutes to make and is seriously delicious.

[Read more…]

pull-apart pizza

Holiday Party Appetizer – Triscuit Pull-Apart Pizza

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Today’s post is sponsored by Mondelez International. All opinions are mine alone.

triscuit pull apart pizza

It’s that time of year again for holiday parties, which means you’ll be tasting a lot of delicious food! Look how festive this TRISCUIT Pull-Apart Pizza appetizer is with all the red, white, and green colors. With fresh ingredients this holiday party appetizer screams: eat me! And it’s healthy too!

easy appetizer

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable, yet easy appetizer:

Holiday Party Appetizer – Triscuit Pull-Apart Pizza

[Read more…]

easy appetizer

5 Minute Thanksgiving Appetizer – Apple-Cheddar Melts

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Today’s post is sponsored by Mondelez International. All opinions are my own.

easy appetizer

Can you believe it’s November already? This year is flying by! It is my favorite time of year for many reasons, one being all of the delicious food we are able to enjoy during this festive season with friends and family. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner, or participating in a potluck style holiday, this Apple Cheddar Melts recipe is incredibly simple to create and delicious too!

This bite size appetizer offers the perfect mix between sweet and savory with a crunch! It will tide your guests over until the main course as well. If you’re a fan of TRISCUIT crackers, read on to grab the recipe below.

5 Minute Thanksgiving Appetizer – Apple-Cheddar Melts:

[Read more…]

Chocolate Mint Muddy Buddies

Alpha-Bits Cereal Chocolate Mint Muddy Buddies

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Today’s post is sponsored by Post Cereal. All opinions are mine alone.

Alpha-Bits Chocolate Mint Muddy Buddies

Looking for creative holiday recipe ideas that are simple and budget-friendly. Try this Alpha-Bits Chocolate Mint Muddy Buddies recipe. I have to warn you – it is addicting! It makes a perfect snack for family gatherings, kid play dates, and is worthy enough to be a dessert option this Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Here’s what you’ll need to make the Chocolate Mint Muddy Buddies:

Ingredients:

Directions:
[Read more…]

15 recipes for 4th of July

Fourth of July Recipes Round-up!

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fourth of july recipes

Fourth of July is always a fun time to celebrate with friends and family. Whether you’re looking for the perfect red, white and, blue beverage, appetizer, or dessert – we’ve got you covered! Check out these Patriotic recipes below!

Here’s 15 Fourth of July Recipes:

[Read more…]

10-St.-Pattys-Day-Delights

10 St. Patty’s Day Recipes

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10 St. Patty's Day Recipes

Who’s ready for the St. Patty’s Day festivities? Here’s delicious delights for your celebration, from St. Patty’s Day inspired drinks to veggies to desserts, we’ve got you covered! Hover over the image above to save these recipes to your Pinterest account.

10 St. Patty’s Day Recipes

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Valentine's Day dessert

Valentine’s Day Dessert Recipe – Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies

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chocolate chip whoopie pies
Valentine’s Day will be here soon enough! Today I’m sharing a delicious dessert recipe: Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies. Not only are these fun to make, but seriously good to eat.

Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies Ingredients:
3-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
2-1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup butter
1 1/4 cup milk
4 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Mini chocolate chips (reserved)

Buttercream Frosting Ingredients:
3 cups powdered sugar
1 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk
[Read more…]

holiday oreo balls

Holiday Dessert Recipe Oreo Cookie Balls

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This is a partnered post with yummly.com and Oreo. All opinions are my own, and may differ from yours.

holiday oreo balls

The holidays are all about sharing and there’s nothing better than sharing America’s favorite cookie – except when that cookie is crushed and rolled up into the delicious, simple goodness of an OREO cookie ball, a bite-sized treat made with three easy ingredients.  OREO cookies, Cream Cheese and Chocolate, yum!! [Read more…]

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