Morel Mushrooms (Pan Fried)

We have found morels once before, but this was the first time we have tried them.

Interesting Fact: In some places, morel mushroom are called “Dry Land Fish”.

Cinnamon Rolls (with Caramel Option)

This recipe is one we often use for Christmas or for the children’s breakfasts as they head to summer camp. They are easy to turn into caramel rolls by a simple step that I included.

If you prefer to make the dough early, you can form the rolls, place in pan and then cover with heavy aluminum foil. Place in the refrigerator at least 12 hours, but not longer than 24. Then, when ready to bake, place unwrapped pan in cold oven and bake until golden brown (35-40 min).

Snowball Cookies

It has not snowed much this winter, so we have not had much chance to play in the snow. Andrea decided it was the perfect day to make snowball cookies when it started to snow for a short while today.

The original recipe called for 1 1/2 cups finely chopped walnuts (or pecans). We adapted our recipe to use chocolate chips in place of some of the nuts because that is Andrea’s favorite way.

While these are great cookies, they do not stay fresh long. Plan to enjoy them in a day or two, or enjoy them with your favorite hot winter drink.

Oatmeal Bread

This is a soft bread that is easy to make. It makes great toast or grilled cheese.

“Rough” Puff Pastry

Looking up how to make puff pastry, we found this recipe for “rough puff pastry”.  It looked easy, so we decided to try it.  It turned out wonderfully.

Just remember that the dough will need lots of time in the fridge.  Be sure to put the cold dough in a hot oven so the pastry rises properly.

Noodles


Home made noodles are much better than store bought.  They take a little extra time but are easy and very good. We always use a noodle maker since we have one, but rolling the dough by hand does not take a lot of time.

While the recipe says to let the noodles dry, you can cook them right away if you want.  They are excellent with butter and garlic, with your favorite sauce or in chicken broth.

For colorful variety, add some pumpkin puree or spinach to the dough.  You will need to add extra flour, but the different colors and taste is fun.