Homemade Thin Mints

Homemade Thin Mints are just like the real thing! Crisp mint chocolate cookies coated in chocolate. They taste amazing! These cookies are easy to make and everyone will rave about them. The perfect balance between mint and chocolate will have you reaching for cookie after cookie. The dough can be made ahead and frozen or the fully baked cookies can be frozen for a quick snack.


INGREDIENTS
For the cookie
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup dark cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg white
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
For the coating
12 ounces dark or semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

INSTRUCTIONS
Make the cookies
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir with a whisk; set aside.
Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or with a hand-held mixer, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Beat in the egg white followed by the vanilla and peppermint extract. The dough may appear curdled, this is normal. Gradually add the flour in 3 additions, beating just until incorporated after each one. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Full instructions recipe visit: https://www.bakedbyanintrovert.com
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Sheet Pan Steak and Potatoes

This was tasty. To be fair, I completely changed the recipe to suit the tastes of my house. I marinated the steak overnight in Montreal steak seasoning, and I made.


INGREDIENTS:
2 pounds baby red potatoes
16 ounces broccoli florets*
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 pounds (1-inch-thick) top sirloin steak, patted dry

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to broil. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat with nonstick spray.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook potatoes until parboiled for 12-15 minutes; drain well.
Place potatoes and broccoli in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Add olive oil, garlic and thyme; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Gently toss to combine.

Full instructions recipe visit: https://www.yummly.com
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Grilled Mushroom Cheesesteaks

Grilled mushrooms and grilled onions with a light cheese sauce makes for the ultimate vegetarian cheesesteak.
Update and Disclosure: Back in 2015, l participated in a farm tour sponsored by The Mushroom Council but I was not compensated to write this post. Opinions and thoughts are my own but I think I formed my love for mushrooms in the womb. And this recipe is now the second most popular recipe on our blog (here’s hthe most popular.)


ingredients
For the mushrooms:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, sliced thinly
20 ounces baby bella or white button mushrooms, sliced
1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the “cheese whiz” sauce:
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2/3 cup low-fat milk (warmed for 1 minute in microwave)
4 ounces Cabot Extra Sharp Cheddar
4 (6-inch) whole-wheat rolls

instructions
In a grill pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add mushrooms and grill for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Full instructions recipe visit: https://teaspoonofspice.com
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7 Big Batch Cocktail Recipes for a Crowd

Get ready to pin these cocktail recipes for your next party when you might need to mix up some cocktails in bulk. Get a neat container, put glassware and an ice bucket nearby, and save time by allowing guests to serve themselves. Easy peasy.


And, these are WAY better than your average punch recipes.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
5 Large Batch Cocktail Recipes from barleymash
Wyatt Earp (a Large Batch Manhattan)
Kate Sessions (Gin/Strawberry)
Silver Strand (St. Germain and Rum)
Clydesdale (a Large Batch Vodka Mule/Whiskey Mule)
Masonrita (Margaritas for a Crowd)
The Lusca – An Enormous Rum, Guava-Mango Kombucha Cocktail Courtesy of Miss B’s Coconut Club
El Holy Grail – Margaritas for a Crowd Courtesy of Brian’s 24

5 Large Batch Cocktail Recipes from barleymash
Let’s start with barleymash, San Diego’s high-energy bar and restaurant, who has graciously provided the first section of large batch cocktail recipes. These fabulous cocktails for a crowd are served in barleymash’s signature cocktail jug called The Mason Jar which is 1.5 gallons of fun (you can buy your own 1.5 gallon mason jar drinks dispenser… see below).

WYATT EARP (A LARGE BATCH MANHATTAN)
750 ml Old Overholt Rye Whiskey
10 oz Carpano Antica sweet vermouth
3 oz Dolin dry vermouth
Garnish: Luxardo Cherries

KATE SESSIONS (GIN/STRAWBERRY)
750 ml Hendrick’s Gin
8 oz St. Germain
8 oz lemon juice
20 oz strawberry batch (puree) = 2nd line on St. Germain carafe
Garnish: Strawberry slices

Full instructions recipe visit: https://lajollamom.com
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COCKTAIL – THE SUICIDE SQUAD #mixdrink #drinks

Whether you are a fan of the comics, the films, or both you NEED this cocktail inspired by the story in your life. With Suicide Squad 2 in the works this and my other DC cocktails will be a perfect addition to your watch party.


INGREDIENTS

2oz Blue Curacao
1oz Peach Tree Schnapps
1/2 oz Rum
1/2 oz Vodka
1 tsp. Grenadine
3oz Ginger Ale
Silver sanding sugar
1 tbsp. Simple syrup

DIRECTIONS
You will need 2 small plates to decorate the rim of your glassware.
Pour silver sanding sugar onto one plate and simple syrup on the other plate.

Full instructions recipe visit: https://lifeshehas.com
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Chocolate Turtle Apple Slices

Chocolate Turtle Apple Slices are thick slices of Fuji apples covered in melted chocolate, drizzled with caramel and topped with nuts.
Happy Fall y’all! I can’t believe it’s already here. I’m so excited for cooler weather and all the delicious Fall flavors!

That brings me to today’s recipe which is made with one of the best fruits of Fall – APPLES! And what’s better than a candied apple!


Ingredients
2 very large Fuji apples
3 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips I used Nestle
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 cup caramels melted (I used Kraft caramels)
Chopped pecans
Popsicle sticks

Instructions
Slice apples into 1/2" pieces. With a knife make a little slit in the bottom of each apple slice to make it easier to insert a popsicle stick.
Melt chips in the microwave on high for about 2 minutes.* Stir in coconut oil until smooth. Dip apple slices in chocolate and place on parchment lined cookie sheet.

Full instructions recipe visit: https://www.momlovesbaking.com
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3 INGREDIENT NO BAKE APPLESAUCE BROWNIES (PALEO, VEGAN, GLUTEN FREE)

Healthy No Bake Applesauce Brownies with just THREE ingredients- So delicious, quick, low in fat and easy, it will be your go-to snack or treat recipe! {vegan, gluten-free, paleo}




Ingredients
1/2 cup coconut flour, sifted
3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (I used a brand which had cinnamon added in)*
1/2 cup coconut palm sugar (can sub for any granulated sweetener- However, I have only tried this with coconut palm sugar and a truvia blend)
Cinnamon (optional)
2 T - 1/4 cup nut butter of choice (optional)
Cinnamon/Coconut palm sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Line a small baking tray with baking paper and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine your coconut flour and coconut palm sugar and mix well. Add your applesauce and nut butter (if using it) and mix until a very thick batter is formed.
Full instructions recipe visit: thebigmansworld.com
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Pineapple Chicken and Rice

Pineapple Chicken and Rice Dinner Recipe. Tender chicken cooked in a sweet pineapple honey Dijon sauce and served over rice.



Ingredients
1 and half pounds boneless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 can 20 oz. sliced pineapple save the juice for the sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
2 garlic cloves minced
4 servings of cooked rice.

Instructions
Season chicken with thyme, salt and pepper.
Over medium heat brown the chicken in the vegetable oil.
Drain pineapple slices and reserve the juice.
Combine cornstarch and 2 oz. of the pineapple juice and set aside.
In a separate bowl combine remaining juice with mustard, honey, and garlic.
Full instructions recipe visit: rezkibudiawan.blogspot.com
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HEALTHY NO BAKE GIANT COOKIE FOR ONE

Healthy No Bake Giant Cookie for ONE recipe- Delicious, chewy and portable, these quick and easy cookies have NO butter, oil or flour and are packed full of protein! {vegan, gluten free, refined sugar free}



Ingredients
1/2 cup rolled oats (I used certified gluten free rolled oats)
1 T coconut flour (can sub for an extra T rolled oats)
pinch sea salt
Pinch cinnamon
1 scoop vanilla protein powder of choice (optional)*
2 T nut butter of choice (can sub for sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter)
1 T brown rice syrup (can sub for honey, agave or maple syrup)
1/4 cup + dairy free milk of choice**
Dairy free chocolate chips, to top (optional)
Instructions
Line a plate with baking paper and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, coconut flour, sea salt, cinnamon and protein powder of choice and mix well.
Stir through the nut butter and sticky sweetener until a crumbly mixture is formed. Using a tablespoon at a time, add dairy free milk until a VERY thick batter is formed. Using your hands, form into a cookie shape and enjoy immediately or for best results, refrigerate for an hour to firm up.
Full instructions recipe visit: thebigmansworld.com
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Breakfast Cookie

These No-Bake Breakfast Cookies are easy to make, healthy, packed with protein and simply delicious. They can be whipped up in less than 5 minutes and stored for up to two weeks.



INGREDIENTS
3/4 cup peanut butter
1 Tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla
1-3 Tablespoons chia seeds
3/4  cup old fashioned oats
OPTIONAL MIX IN'S: 1/4 CUP MINI CHOCOLATE CHIPS, CHOPPED ALMONDS, RAISINS, PUMPKIN SEEDS, PROTEIN POWDER, FLAXSEEDS

INSTRUCTIONS
Place the peanut butter, honey and vanilla in a microwavable bowl and microwave the ingredients for  20 seconds.
Stir the mixture until well combined then add in the remaining ingredients (and any extra mix-in's).
Stir well and ensure everything is well incorporated.

Roll the mixture into 8 balls and place the balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Press the balls flat slightly and place them in the fridge for at least an hour to set.

Full instrucrions recipe visit: www.iheartnaptime.net
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Strawberry icebox cake - No bake strawberry icebox cake

You will not believe how simple and delicious this Strawberry icebox cake is! With only 3 ingredients, this dessert can be made in a flash! It’s the perfect  summer dessert or anytime of the year!



Ingredients
(2) 8 oz containers Cool Whip thawed
1 1/2 lbs Strawberries hulled and sliced
1 1/2 packs Graham Crackers

Instructions
Spread a 1/2 container of whipped topping in a layer on the bottom of an 8x8" pan.
Add a layer of graham crackers, breaking as necessary to cover whipped topping.
Top with another 1/2 container of whipped topping and smooth with a spatula.
Add 1/3 of the strawberries in an even layer.
Full instructions recipe visit: www.eatingonadime.com
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Best Fudgy Chewy Chocolate Brownie Cookies

The best fudgy chewy chocolate brownie cookies are made in one bowl with cocoa powder, lots of chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts! These thick, soft chocolate chocolate chip cookies with walnuts are basically like eating brownies in cookie form!



INGREDIENTS
 2/3 cup butter, softened
 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
 2 teaspoons vanilla
 2 eggs
 1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
 1/3 cup cocoa powder
 1/2 teaspoon salt
 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
 1 cup chocolate chips
 1/2 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped
 Powdered sugar, for dusting
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat oven to 375 degrees. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Cream butter and sugar until light, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add vanilla and eggs and mix well.
Combine the flour, cocoa, salt and soda and whisk, then add to the butter, sugar and eggs and stir to combine. Stir in chocolate chips and walnuts.
Full instructions recipe visit: houseofnasheats.com
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Low Carb Fajita Burrito Lettuce Wrap

A low carb fajita burrito lettuce wrap is the perfect way to have your Mexican food on a low carb diet. All of those Mexican flavors wrapped up for a handheld lettuce burrito!



Ingredients
Meat. Marinade
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoons cumin
1/4 teaspoon oregano
1 lb beef steak, cut into thin strips
Lettuce Wraps
1 onion, sliced
2 cups pepers sliced
1 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon chili powder
18 leaves iceberg lettuce
3/4 cup shredded cheese
1 avocado, thinly sliced
Instructions
The night before, mix the marinade and add with the meat to a large zipper bag. Make sure all the meat is covered with the marinade.

The next day, add the oil to a large saute pan and heat up to medium high. Add the meat mixture as well as the salt and chili powder. Cook for about 10 minutes until the meat is browned.
Full instructions recipe visit: mylifecookbook.com

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Broccoli Salad Delicious

Broccoli salad is incredibly easy to make. It's healthy, loaded with flavor and topped with a creamy mayonnaise yogurt dressing. Watch the video above to see how quickly it comes together!



INGREDIENTS

Broccoli Salad
1 broccoli head, approx 5 cups of florets
8 slices bacon
1/3 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
Broccoli Salad Dressing
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup plain yogurt

INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees fahrenheit. Add the bacon slices to a parchment lined baking tray and cook for 15 minutes or until crispy. Remove the bacon from the oven and transfer to a paper towel to dry and cool.
Full instructions recipe visit: downshiftology.com
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Tomato Quinoa Salad

It's time to add another tasty quinoa recipe to our meal prep game! This Tomato Quinoa Salad is fast, flavorful, and easily made in advance for speedy lunches and sides for work, school, or home!Feel free to double this recipe if needed, it's so easy to do!



Ingredients

1/2 cup dry quinoa
3/4 cup water
2-3 cups chopped/sliced tomato
15 oz can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup chopped green onion
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
2 TBSP avocado oil
1 clove garlic (smashed and minced)
1 TBSP fresh chopped parsley
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/8 tsp pepper
additional fresh chopped parsley to taste

Instructions
First rinse and drain your quinoa using a mesh strainer or sieve. Bring a small pot to medium heat and lightly toast the quinoa to remove any excess water. Stir as it toasts for just a few minutes. This step is optional but really adds to the nuttiness and fluff factor of the quinoa! Next add your water, set burner to high, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer, covered with the lid slightly ajar, for 12-13 minutes or until quinoa is fluffy and the liquid has been absorbed.
Full instructions recipe visit: peasandcrayons.com
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AVOCADO EGG SALAD

Avocado egg salad is a delicious spin on the traditional egg salad recipe and perfect for spring or summer. Watch the video above to see how quickly it comes together!



INGREDIENT
1 large avocado, peeled, pitted and finely diced
3 hard boiled eggs, roughly chopped
2 tbsp red onion, chopped
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp chives, chopped
1 tbsp parsley, chopped
1 tsp lemon juice
salt and pepper
lettuce leaves, optional, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
Add all of the ingredients to a mixing bowl and stir to combine.
Eat the avocado egg salad plain, topped on your favorite bread or on lettuce leaves.
Full intructions recipe visit: downshiftology.com
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Bang bang cauliflower

Cauliflower gets battered, baked and then topped off with a sweet and spicy chili sauce!



INGREDIENTS
Cauliflower: 

1 cup gluten-free flour (can sub regular flour, spelt flour…etc.)
1 cup almond milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
Bang bang sauce: 

1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tsp sriracha
1 tsp soy sauce
2 tsp lime juice
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F and line a baking pan with parchment paper
Mix the flour, almond milk, salt and pepper together in a bowl until smooth.
Dip each piece of cauliflower into the batter, let any excess batter drip off then place the cauliflower bites on the baking pan.
full instructions recipe visit: choosingchia.com
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Lemon Dessert (aka Lemon Lush)

Easy cold lemon dessert (aka lemon lush) made with cream cheese and lemon pudding.


INGREDIENTS
1 1/4 cup flour
3/4 cup butter
1/4 cup pecans + extra for top
8 oz cream cheese, softened
16 oz cool whip
1 cup powdered sugar
4 small (3.4 oz) boxes lemon instant pudding
5 cups milk
INSTRUCTIONS
First Layer
Preheat oven to 350° F.

 Cut butter into flour.  Mix well and add pecans.  Pat into the bottom of a 9×13 pan and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.  Let cool completel
Full instructions Visit: https://www.cleverlysimple.com/lemon-dessert-lemon-lush/
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Peanut Butter Cookie Lasagna

Don’t you love quick and easy dessert recipes, especially ones that don’t even require an oven! This Peanut Butter Cookie Lasagna is a great dessert for everyone,no matter what the occasion!



Ingredients
1 box Nutter Butter Cookies
Cool Whip or whip your own fresh whipped cream (1 cup cream plus a drop of sugar for sweetness)
peanut butter cups
½ cup peanut butter, melted in microwave
1 box instant or regular vanilla pudding, prepared according to package
Instructions
Line the bottom of an 8x8 pan with Nutter Butter Cookies.
Top with a drizzle of the melted peanut butter.
Add ½ the pudding.
Add half the cream. (I like to use a pastry bag so it is pretty but you can spread it if you prefer.)
Full instructions recipe: hugsandcookiesxoxo.com
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No bake mini raspberry cheesecakes for a virtual baby shower

Miryam's original recipe




INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon Agar powder, or gelatin
1/4 cup hot water
8 oz low fat cream cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream
10 oz organic frozen raspberries, thawed
Crust

1/3 cup oats, gluten free
1 tablespoon chia seeds
8 graham crackers, gluten free
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 tbsp almond milk
1 tbsp dark cocoa powder
DIRECTIONS:
In a food processor pulverized the oats and graham crackers. Transfer to a mixing bowl and add in the cocoa powder and chia seeds. Incorporate the melted butter and soy milk and combine. Press mixture down onto the mini cheese cake pan molds with removable bottom.
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