CLICK HERE to respond to newsletter replies, requests and tips. Please include date of newsletter, name of recipe and number of servings.  Remember to include your name within the message as well.

Breader Bowl and Onion Blossom Maker Set -
view a quick video and discover how to use
both to make the perfect onion blossom.

Do you know how to make a Christmas tree cake from a 9 X 13 cake? Bake your cake as you normally would in that size pan. Turn it out on waxed paper. After cool, turn so narrow end is nearest you. Find the center point at the top of the cake at the narrow side. Slice the cake from the top middle point to the bottom corner. Do the same on the other site. You will have 3 triangles. Put the 2 cut pieces together on the bottom, and the intact triangle on top as a second layer. Draw this on paper, and you will understand how to do it. For an interesting effect, swirl 3 tbsp green sparkle sugar through the cake batter before baking.

Here is another Christmas cake idea. Bake a cake as you normally would in 2 nine inch pans. Ice cakes as you normally would using fluffy white icing. Take one of the empty pans, turn it over, and draw a circle that size on waxed paper. In the middle of the waxed paper, cut out the shape of a Christmas tree. Lay this stencil pattern over your iced cake, and fill in with green tinted coconut. Use shaved chocolate for the tree trunk. Use M & M s for the balls on the Christmas tree. ( The back side of M & M s is plain.)

www.watkinsonline.com/hutto
sunnywatkinsgirl@aol.com
Order toll free: 888-965-7070 eastern time

Do you have the soup sheet with recipes and ideas for using Watkins soup bases. Send me your email, and I will send it to you free. Watkins soup bases are on sale for the month of December.

I have a 18 quart electric roaster and was wondering if anyone has ever did a Ham in one of them and if so how did it turn out. Also does anyone have a good glaze to put over the HAm while baking, I remember having a recipe using ginger ale, maple syrup and pineapple rings, but can't find it.
thanks, Sally in PA

Nancy, I have finally got through all the newsletters that I got while I was in the hospital and rehab. I have a few question and I don't think that they have been answered. In the 12/9 newsletter from Lois Kingston WA your Outrageous Cookies had no measurements for peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Could you please send the recipe in again with the measurements for the above ingredients. Also to Sandi Hutson in Jasper, TX the 12/9 newsletter do you just mix the White Chocolate Chip, dried Cherries, and mixed Nuts or do you melt the chocolate and mix in the cherries and nuts? In the same newsletter (12/9) from Sybil, aka Angel in Sherbrooke could you please send in the directions on how to make the Bib Apron.

This week I have started to walk all day without my cane. The Doctor was upset that I was still using the cane as much as I was. I am still using it on the stairs in the house and also outside. I can now fly and we are going to FL sometime soon.

Everyone have a great day. Nancy and 4 legged associates take care and stay safe.
Susie Indy

The newsletter was not sent out on Wednesday. I had an invitation to go out to eat with a friend from out of town.  Took advantage of the offer and didn't get home until late.  Hadn't seen my friend in the past 10 years.  We taught together for over 15 years.  It took a while to catch up on what was going on with both of us. Instead of sending the newsletter this week on Wednesday it is being sent on Thursday instead.
Nancy Rogers

Ihave been making the pie using sugar free pudding for my diabetic friends. It is soooooo good. (Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie in Monday's newsletter.
Alice

Looking for a recipe from the Lotus Room, St Louis, MO owned by Howard Wong.

"Chicken Velvets"..... hum good.
the restaurant closed some 35 years ago & I can still taste this wonderful Chinese fare.
Rich

I purchased the better baker bowls for my daughter in law for Christmas does anyone have some recipes for it.

thanks
Maureen Las Vegas

There are some Video recipes on the Cooksrecipes site.  It shows in detail how to use the Better Baker Edible Baker Bowls. 
There are some recipes on this page too.

I am new to this group and am not sure how to find a recipe. People have mentioned a Lemon fruitcake that I am interested in. Please tell me how to search for it.
Thanks. Dita Mc

Holiday Recipes
Homemade and Gift Jar Mix Recipes
Ham Recipes
Salad Recipes
2 Ingredient Fudge Recipe

Top 100 Recipe Sites

Hello Everyone,
Hope all are doing well this Christmas season. Thanks for the advice on the vacuums. I think I will be checking out the Dyson. Now, I need instructions on how to make Chicken French. Had it last night at a party for the first time and really liked it. Asked hostess how to make it but she did not seem like she wanted to tell me. All she said is that it was a pain in the neck to make and very time consuming. Whatever, I am hoping some of you ladies or gents can help me out.

For the person who wanted ways to display the numerous earrings. Why not a simple earring tree.
Carolyn, Rochester, New York

Sybil in Dec. 11 letter asked if anyone used their good dishes. Oh yes, I use my porcelain set every day. They go in the dishwasher, so why not? I feel more elegant and food even looks more appetizing on real plates. I do use paper plates for picnics, tho. Then when I have friends drop in for a cup of tea, I used my china tea sets. That is much more fun than just looking at them in the china closet. And the tea tastes so much better from a thin china cup!

Now, I need your help. Last summer, different ones told about a new cookie sheet or liner, I don't know for sure which it was. Can anyone clue me in what this was? I have a friend who is a big cookie baker and wanted to get her a couple for Christmas. I think it started with an S. Thanks so much for any help.
Annie from Gomer

Aunt Nancy;
I have the second in the series of three (or even possibly four) free recipe cards that are my gift to your readers. I have posted it on my blog today. This one is blank with lines or without lines so that it can simply be printed out and hand written or someone can use their computer to add their recipe to it.

The permalink address for this post is http://www.daisiecompany.com/blogs/audreyjeanne/?p=299
The regular blog address is: www.daisiecompany.com/blogs/audreyjeanne. I hope your Nancylanders are having a very Merry Christmas!
Love, Audrey

Thank you to Frances from Florida who sent in the recipe for pizzelles. My mother-in-law passed away in August, and she always made pizzelles at Christmas time. They are my favorite! I had no idea what recipe she used (haven't been able to find it) and I really wanted to make some for my husband. I will try your recipe!

I also would like to know if anyone has a copycat recipe for the sauce that Applebee's serves with their onion ring appetizers. It has a barbeque flavor, but it's not just barbeque sauce. It's so yummy!

Thanks in advance and Merry Christmas to everyone!
Kathy Clark in (cold and icy) SW Kansas

I am writing in regards to Robert's wife on Dec.8 newsletter and to the response on Dec.9th newsletter to why the pumpkin roll may crack when it is rolled. I wet a dishtowel and put the pumpkin roll on it and roll it while hot. I leave it set for at least 20 minutes and then fill with cream cheese filling. I have never had the pumpkin roll split when doing it with the wet towel. I made several last year and a few this year.
Please give it a try and good luck. Lois in Grafton, OH

Hello everyone! I haven't posted anything for a long time since I'm a very busy nursing student, but today was my last day of classes! Now I finally get to enjoy my winter break. :-) What's the best way to prepare little smokies? I'd like to make some as an appetizer for Christmas Eve. I've never prepared any with a sauce before, but I'm thinking something with BBQ sauce would taste yummy. Thanks a lot. I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!
~Anna in MO~

Nancy in Florida, requested the Andrew's Fudgies in the December 11th Digest.

I was a very faithful listener to the Gus Saunders radio show back in the late sixty's early seventy's. I lost track of the show between going to work and then being a snow bird in southern Florida. Now back north of Boston. Here is the recipe for the Andrew's Fudges. Don't have the Coca Cola Cake.

Andrew's Fudgies
2-1/2 cups flour
3/4 cup cocoa
2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup liquid shortening, minus 1 tb
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1-1/2 cups water (cold)
pinch salt

Sift dry ingredients, and put in bowl, make well in center, add all wet ingredients. Beat at low speed 2 minutes, then medium speed for 7 minutes.

Bake in 350 oven. for 30 to 35 minutes 9x13 pan. The batter is very thin and does not require any frosting. I haven't made these in years. As I had to change my lifestyle of cooking to fat free and sugar free.
Sandy Danvers Ma

The recipe or one very similar to it above was sent in by Mary in CT.  Mary in CT added a few comments about the recipe.

Nancy Furbabies and all,
I just want to wish everyone a Very Merry Christmas, and a Happy and Healthy
New Year.

This is in reply to Nancy in Florida from the Dec. 11th newsletter. I
remember Gus Saunders radio show very well, I believe it was called Yankee Kitchen. It is no longer on the air. I don't know exactly when it went off the air but I have a few small notebooks with a lot of the terrific recipes in them (If only I could find where I put them!)

I am posting the Andrews Fudgies recipe It is a favorite of mine as well. This is one that I put right in my favorites recipe box many years ago so I was able to find it easily. Us chocoholics must stick together! LOL! I don't know if I ever copied the cocoa cola cake recipe. If I find my notebooks I will see if it is one of the recipes I copied down. Now that you reminded me, I will have to make some myself. Enjoy!
Mary in CT

Shrimp Question from a drylander. I know shrimp cook quickly ( 3 minutes) and turn to rubber if cooked too long. However, many casserole recipes that call for cooked shrimp are then baked for 30 minutes to an hour or so. Please explain this to me.
TIA Careen from Cortez

Nancy: Helen in Mississippi posted a recipe for Shrimp Chowder in the Tuesday, 11 Dec 07 Newsletter that I have a question about. Helen, what exactly is the ingredient "season blend" or what is it similar to? I would like to make this recipe but I do not have a super Wal-Mart with a frozen food section near me so would need to find something that would make a good substitute. Since it is sautéed with the shrimp, would it be something like Old Bay Seasoning?
Mr. Myron Drinkwater - Lake Forest, CA

To Barbarba Ann is Texas - Regarding the One Cup of Everything Cookies

I submitted this recipe and forgot to include my name! I asked my coworker who made this about substituting something else for the peanut butter. She said she didn't know - I am sorry I couldn't be more help! If anyone out there in Nancyland knows of something - please chime in!
Jen G In WV

Consideration for birthday brunch for Dee:

Winter Green Salad
1 pkg (3 oz) lime Jell-O
1 can (8 oz) fruit cocktail, drained
1/3 cup Miracle Whip
1 tsp vinegar
Miniature marshmallows

Prepare Jell-O per package directions. When set, beat until fluffy. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover and refrigerate until set. Use whatever amount of marshmallows you like.
grannym IL

Re: I have a great recipe for an appetizer using 1/2 c crumbled goat cheese. We do not care for it. Could another cheese be used in it's place? If so, which one and how much?

I would suggest using crumbled feta cheese. You can find it "pre-crumbled" plain, low-fat or with basil & tomato seasoning.
Dianne in Houston

This is for Marge who wanted a recipe for Steamed Carrot Pudding. I am sure this is what you are looking for. I canned this for many years, so I don't have the directions for steaming, but you can look that up in your cookbook for steamed puddings.

Steamed Carrot Pudding
1/2 cup shortening or suet
1 cup sugar
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 1/2 cup grated carrots
1 cup grated potatoes
1 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon each nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves
1 cup raisins
1/2 to 1 cup nuts, I use walnuts

Cream the shortening and sugar, add egg. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. I always sift the dry ingredients together before adding. Steam according to your directions.

Serve with hard sauce.
Ramona, Goodrich, MI

Thanks for the wonderful suggestions for displaying, wrapping the earrings for my granddaughter, I've decided to try all the great suggestions. Thanks loads!
Boots in Va.

Nancy, love your newsletter so much. A very Merry Christmas to you & the critters. I am a native Texan living in Ga.
Thank you Sue

For Yolanda (Newsletter 12,8,07) The cake you are looking for is called

Wacky Cake
1-1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon vinegar
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup cold water

In a large mixing bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa, soda and salt. Make three wells in the flour mixture. In one put vanilla; in another the vinegar, and in the third the oil. Pour the cold water over the mixture and stir until moistened.
Pour into 8 x 8-inch pan. Bake at 350°F. oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it springs back when touched lightly.
Kath in Kansas

Hi Nancy: I just read our paper and there was an article in it regarding sending letters to recovering soldiers. If the envelope does not have a name on it, it will not be sent. It just goes into the dead letter file or it will be returned to you if you have a return address. I thought I might save some people 41 cents for postage. What a shame. It seems like if you send it to the hospital, the staff there should know who is a recovering soldier, especially if it is Walter Reed Army Medical Center and do what they could to get it to one of them. Oh well, times have changed, I guess.
Pat in Waco

For Betty, Md, what is your last name, city and state, so that we can check to see if your check was returned and when, or if they sent you a cookbook? The Church secretary copied all checks when they came in. When did you order your cookbook? Was it before or after the announcement in Nancy's newsletter that all cookbooks had been sold? I notified the church today, and ask them to check the list, but without a last name, it was hard to do. Please let me know, ok! Also, someone ask if I knew how many cookbooks were order by our group. I do not know exactly, but think over 50!
Betty T. Ga.

I just got the shock of my life when I went to Costco and bought 16 oz. of pure vanilla for $6.

I have been buying McCormick at the supermarket and paid almost $6 for 1 oz.

Has anyone every bought from Costco and are they the same?
The one from Costco reads "100% pure Madagascar bourbon vanilla, pure extract", and McCormick reads, "pure vanilla extract". Thanks for any comments about this.
Have a great Christmas everyone.
CAMILLE

Hi
I am looking for a loaf type desert I enjoyed many years ago I remember it had graham wafers cocoa and palmin ,and vanilla sugar in it ,it was layered in a loaf pan. Please can you help me find this.
thank you, Pat

Not a recipe. Just want to give Christmas Blessings and Greetings to all Nancylanders, Siggy, Ditto, especially Nancy for all her giving beyond the Christmas days and to her brother a healing time.

Thank you for the giving from all who send recipes and hints. They as well as all who send them are very precious persons.
Sylvia in FL

This is for Doris in DE. The yellow in the potato soup was probably cheddar cheese. Many restaurants add cheese to their cream soups. Nancy, I want to thank you for all the love you put into this newsletter. I am sure we all feel it and send it back to you.
Lorene MI

I had another thought about how to display or present those vintage earrings as a gift. Buy a miniature artificial tree, on a diagonal wrap thin ribbon and hang the earrings in pairs as ornaments.
To all you wonderful people, Merry Christmas.
Margo/Boston

Boots in Va, I just thought of another way to display those vintage earrings you want to give as a gift. Use a beautiful pound candy box ,maybe something like Godiava Chocolate or a beautiful Valentine box if you've kept one. Fill it with pretty miniature cupcake papers and put a pair of earrings in each . You could take a tie box or other candy box and cover the cover with beautiful paper (glued) and a beautiful ribbon.
Margo/Boston

Thanks Nancy for your info about the food network. I always used to be able access with WebTV their recipes, but could not even get Ina Garten's recipe in your newsletter today. Might have to write to them or ask my customer service.
Dee

Betty T. in Ga I got my cookbook, I love it, they did a great job.
Lindah Texas

To Doris - DE
I believe the Hoss' restaurant in Exton, PA uses Yukon Gold potatoes to make their potato soup. That's the reason for the yellow color. Yukon Gold potatoes also make great mashed potatoes - just add milk, butter and a tiny bit of thyme.
VT Maid in PA

Thank you, Gina in Indiana, for sending in your recipe for "Poor man's turtles".

I was thinking about this candy the other day but couldn't remember the recipe. I am writing it down for sure. Merry Christmas Nancy and thanks for all you do!!!
Grandma Teeters in Tifton

Thanks to everyone who sent in the Paula Deen Gooey Cake Recipes. Merry Christmas to all.
Faye

These are our favorite holiday cookies. Enjoy.

Penny from Wisconsin & AZ.
Notice the 5 stars. They are awesome.

Cherry Pecan Slices *****

1 cup butter softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1-1/2 tsp. vanilla
2-1/4 cups flour mixed with generous dash of salt
2 cups candied cherries cut in half
1 cup pecan halves

Cream butter until fluffy. Gradually add sugar. Beat well. Add egg and vanilla.
Stir in flour. Beat well. Stir in cherries and pecans. Cover air tight and chill 1 hour. Divide in 3 parts.

Flour hands & surface. Roll dough into 12 inch rolls. You will have 3 rolls. Chill 3 hours or overnight. Bake at 350 for 12-15 minutes.

This is for Mimi. In the Dec. 11 newsletter, you posted the Mexican Macaroni and Cheese recipe. Are these black or green olives?
Merry Christmas everyone.
Jean

Hello Nancy & Gang,
To Connie, TX
I haven't done anything to the rusted bowl. I wanted to see what you guys thought before I touched it. I would hate to ruin it. My neighbor says she thinks the design on the bottom is called "Star of David" and she remembers them from 1940's or earlier if that's correct. Her grandmother had one. I will try the baking soda and let you guys know-thanks.

I posted the Anitpasto Squares in 12/11 letter-it should read 2 cans of crescent rolls-sorry about that.

Santa Fe Egg Bake
Great do ahead dish
Chill 2-24 hours before baking

4 c frozen southern style hash browns
15 oz black beans-rinsed
1 c frozen whole kernel corn
1 c frozen peppers and onion-stir fry style
8 oz Colby Jack cheese
2 T fresh parsley
8 eggs
1-1/4 c milk
1/2 t salt
1/8 t cayenne
dash of cumin

Spray 11x7. Mix potatoes, beans, corn, peppers, and onion in dish. Sprinkle with cheese and parsley. Beat eggs, milk, salt, pepper and cumin until well blended and pour on veggies. Cover and chill at least 2 but not over 24. Heat oven 350*. Bake uncovered 55-60 minutes or done. Let stand 5 minutes before cutting.

Southwestern Cubed Steaks
YUMMY!!!

2 eggs
½ c water
3 c Doritos-fine crushed
1 c baking mix
1 lb cube steaks
3 T oil
1/2 c chunky salsa
1/4 c shredded Mexican cheese

Whisk eggs and water. In pie pan mix tortillas and baking mix. Cut beef into 4 pieces and pound thin if needed. Dip into egg mix, then into crumbs-press to coat. Heat oil in skillet and cook steak done-turning once. Top each with salsa and cheese.

Chicken Cordon Bleu Chowder
This is a great busy night dinner with bread and a simple salad.
4 servings

2-18 oz Progresso Traditional Roasted Potato Chowder
1 c cubed, cooked chicken
1 c diced ham
1 c shredded Swiss
1 T fresh chives-chopped
1/2 t garlic powder
salt & pepper

Heat soup, chicken, ham, and seasonings in Dutch oven for 5 min-stirring occasionally. Slowly stir in cheese and heat until melted. Top with chives.
Mimi ^..^

I had heard years ago to always use your china, silverware, cutlery and special pieces throughout your life. Your life could be cut short through no fault of yours, and the use of these special pieces will always give you pleasure, so why not use them. My good china sits in my china closet, but I make sure all the other special pieces get used, even the silver gravy boat, sometimes daily. If I love them, why not use them? Although some special pieces I bought specially for retirement and a new home still sit boxed, I use a lot of my treasures, especially as I hear of new health problems which beset me. I cannot count on reaching ninety, as my mother has, so I want to get as much pleasure out of my items as possible.
Hudson Valley Kathleen

Thank you for the 3 Plum Pudding recipes that were sent in, From the 3, I made my own recipe. It was wonderful, steamed it for 8 hours and it tasted just like the one my Mother used to bake. We couldn't wait till Christmas to try it but we saved some for then also. Once again thank you. Merry Christmas.
Trish in Fl

Sunshine in South Texas, thanks for the recipe for the green bean bundles. I've seen several, but this is closest to the one I am thinking about. Thanks, Connie in TX (not east Texas)

In response to: "Hi everyone, Nancy from Fl here. Does anyone from the Boston, Mass area remember the Gus Saunders radio show? Just like Nancy's recipe exchange but done on the radio around 10 am to noon. I always listened before moving to Fl in 1969. I lost my "Andrew's fudgies" and "Coca cola cake" Yes, I am a chocoholic and proud of it. :) I would love to hear if he is still on the radio and to get these two recipes.

May your holidays be blessings to everyone."

I did a Google search on him and he passed away this past May at the age of 85. He did have a few cookbooks out there that you might be able to find online or at the library. The title of the book is The Gus Saunders Boston Kitchen Cookbook Vol.X. I did not find one on eBay or Half.com. Sorry.

Good luck on your search!
Make it a great day! Lisa (East Texas)

To Robert Jerin: I grew up in Youngstown (Struthers, actually) and my grandparents were Slovak. Your stuffed cabbage sounds much like what I remembered Granny making. We called them "Pigeons in Blankets". I will try these after Christmas.
Jeanlock in McLean VA.

In regards to the newsletter of Nov. 8th, I wish to thank Sandy H. of Blue Springs, Dianne of Houston, Cindy of Kansas City, and last but not least gramaj. All of you ladies sent in your recipes for crockpot corn. I've never tried any of these, but I'm planning to in the future. Mom always called it scalloped corn, baked in a casserole. I've seen some recipes for scalloped corn, but none like she made. Boy, it's hard to break an old habit when when it comes to trying new recipes, but I'm gonna give it a try. Thank you so much. I appreciate it.
Carolyn in Ohio

Just like Sybil from Quebec I also use my "good" dishes and silver for my husband and myself, I've found that if I use my silver it doesn't need to be polished. As for paper plates, I don't use them very often but when I do, there is NO guilt! I'd rather use pretty paper then run the chance of having good china broken by small children, besides they think it's neat they get their own special plates.
Nancy in Virginia Beach

Hi, I just wanted to thank Mimi and Margaret in Tulsa, for giving me the information about the Equivalents for sugar and more. Thank you to all of you Nancylanders, for all of the wonderful recipes you send in. I plan to use several for the Christmas Holidays. Bless you all and a Special Blessing for Nancy. You are a blessing to all of us, Nancy. Merry Christmas to all.
Evelyn S. South Central Texas

Hi Nancy,
I was wondering if you got your kitties their Christmas presents yet. I got mine one of those laser lights that change to all different shapes. One is a mouse He is about 15 years old and you should see him chase it. He just loves it. I only play a little at a time with him I don't want to play him out.

Doris - De. wanted to know why the potato soup was yellow. It is because they add egg to it.

Fran in FL wanted the recipe for Ritz crackers dipped in chocolate.

Chocolate Dipped Peanut Butter Crackers
You need 1 box Ritz crackers
1 small jar of peanut butter
1 ambrosia chocolate block (small one).

First you make Ritz and peanut butter sandwiches, by spreading peanut butter on one Ritz cracker and then placing another Ritz cracker on top.

Then melt your chocolate block in double boiler. Coat each peanut butter and Ritz sandwich with melted chocolate. I usually do this with a small ladle.

Then set the coated sandwich on a cookie sheet covered with wax paper. Put in refrigerator overnight. Don't substitute the crackers for the already made mini-Ritz, they don't taste as good.

Note:
Dipped Oreos, pretzels, any store bought cookies will dip nicely.

Have a nice Christmas everyone and Feel free to break out the paper plates.
Sharon In Pa.

Comment
Siggy and Ditto have their stockings up on the fireplace in hopes that Santa will fill them. Santa has gotten them some new toys but due to both Siggy and Ditto's snoopiness both will have to wait until Christmas Eve for their toys and treats.

Ditto has to improve on his behavior before Santa gives him much. He is still searching through pockets for any money that he can find. It wouldn't be so embarrassing if he just went through my pockets. When friends come over he checks their pockets too.
Nancy Rogers

This is in reply to SYBIL from QUEBEC regarding the 'good dishes'
Yes, I do use the "good dishes and silver' for everyday. Several months ago I retired and went full-time RVing. While down-sizing from a 2 bedroom house to a 32 ft RV, I had several yard sales and sold my "everyday" dishes and silverware. I figure if the stuff gets broken it gets broken -- but it wasn't doing anyone any good setting in the china cabinet and no one in the family was interested in it so it's all in the cupboard of my RV and when I eat, I pull out a lace tablecloth and dine in style! What a joy -- should have done it a long time ago!!
Helen

I am looking for a "to die for" French toast casserole for Christmas breakfast. Can anyone help?
Thanks for you help.
AnneE from Pa.

To Shirley, here is a pumpkin bread with only 1/2 C oil. Hope this helps.

Quick and Easy Pumpkin Bread
1 1/2 c Sugar
1 2/3 c Flour
1/4 ts Baking powder
1 ts Baking soda
3/4 ts Salt
1/2 ts Ground cloves
1/2 ts Nutmeg
1/2 ts Cinnamon
1/2 c Vegetable oil
1/2 c Water
1 c Mashed pumpkin
2 Eggs
1/2 c Nuts, optional

Sift dry ingredients together. Stir in remaining ingredients. Pour batter into buttered and floured loaf pan. Bake 1 hour at 350.
No name was included with recipe.

This is my Mom's pecan pie recipe. I lost both my parents a year ago just 6 days apart. They were married 66 years and Dad went first ,My Mom said she didn't want to live without Dad and she passed away on Sunday after we buried Dad on Wednesday. I miss them so much. So if any of you still have your parents, Please let them know every day how much you love them.

Eria's Pecan Pie
1/2 cup sugar
1cup Karo syrup
3 eggs (beaten)
1 tsp. vanilla favoring
1 cup chopped pecans

Mix all ingredients and pour in unbaked pie shell. Bake at 325°until firm (about 30 minutes)
Enjoy! Helen in Mississippi

Nancy ,I think I send this in a couple of years ago ,But we have so many new members I thought someone would enjoy these cookies during the holidays.

Date Nut Cookies
1 qt chopped pecans
1/2 lb. candied cherries (green or red)
1/2 lb. chopped dates
1 small can coconut
1 can condensed milk
1 cup self-rising flour
Directions
Mix all ingredients together and drop by tsps on greased cookie sheet for 25 minutes at 300°

Enjoiy Helen in Mississippi

Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie with Toffee Bits
1 quart softened vanilla ice cream
1 (15-oz.) can pumpkin
1 tsp. pumpkin-pie spice
1 cup English Toffee bits (or crushed Heath candy bars)
1 ready made graham cracker crust

Mix ice cream, pumpkin, spice, and toffee bits. Pour into graham cracker crust. Freeze until firm. To serve, garnish with whipped cream and toffee.

Source: Woman's Day November 2003
Tona in Bama

Here is a very easy sugar cookie recipe. I used red and green sugar sprinkles on top.

Easy Sugar Cookies
2-3/4 C. all purpose flour
1-1/2 C. white sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 egg
1 C. butter, softened
1 tsp. vanilla

Preheat oven 350 * In small bowl, stir flour, soda, & baking powder. set aside.

In large bowl, cream butter & sugar. Beat in egg & vanilla. Blend in dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place on cookie sheet. I pressed down to form a small flat surface to put red or green sugar.

Bake about 10 min. till golden brown. Let stand on cookie sheet 2 min. before removing to cool on wire racks.
This came from Stephanie on www.Allrecipes.com.

Mr. Myron Drinkwater, would you please send in your sage dressing recipe? I made the 1 Cup Of Everything Cookies today and they are easy and wonderful to eat !!
Sybil in Fl.

This is a great TNT recipe that I make for Christmas morning. I make two pans so everyone can have some and I prepare it the night before.
Dianamae from Mattydale, NY

Danish Souffle
12 slices slightly dry bread
1/2 pound shredded sharp Cheddar
1/3 cup imitation bacon bits or 6 slices cooked & crumbled
3Tbsp. frozen dried chives
4 eggs
2-1/2 c. milk
1 tsp. salt
1/8 t. pepper

Place 6 slices of bread in oiled 8 x 12 x 2” pan. Sprinkle with 1/2 of the cheese, bacon bits. Chives & Salt & pepper. Cover with remaining 6 slices & repeat. Beat together eggs, milk & salt & pepper and pour over bread slices. Let stand at least 30 minutes before baking at 325° for 50 mins.
Serves 6.

Can be made the night before & refrigerated. If refrigerated, add 10 minutes to cooking time.

We finally got electricity and heat back on in the house. It was out 24 hours. I feel sorry for the poor folks here in Oklahoma City who don't have either. There are thousands without power. Thanks to Texas, New Mexico and others perhaps that are helping restore power. And hooray we finally got cable, i.e., Nancy's Kitchen, back, since Sunday evening. In the Dec. 11 n/l Sybil from Quebec said she now uses her "good" teacups. I just want to say that I applaud her. Hooray for Sybil. Life is too short not to use the good stuff on yourself. Go Sybil!
Barb in OKC

To the 2 Sybil's when growing up there were only 7 of us for holidays so we used the good dishes, same as Sunday when we ate in the dining room. Now we use paper plates (the nice ones) but real flatware. If you aren't special enough to use the "goodstuff" then who is?

I have fudge left from LAST year in an air tight container and it is as good as it was then. If cookies or baked good can be frozen, than make ahead and freeze usually good for up to 3 months.
Suzanne in the Motor City.

I am working on a cookbook for a club that I belong to. I would like to contact Betty the Gal from Georgia that did one for her church. I would like to order a cookbook and also discuss with her the process she used to produce it.
Thank you. Kitten in Buffalo

I was rereading Tona in Bama's recipe for the pecans toasted in the crock pot. I have a question. After you cook them 15 min. and remove the lid and continue cooking for 2 hours-do you at any time stir the pecans? Thanks in advance.
Connie in TX

To Sybil from Quebec regarding using her GOOD silver, etc.:
I had to smile when I read your message. Sybil, I am older than you. About 10-15 years ago one day it just hit me - what am I saving all this for, HIS second wife?? I started unpacking and loading the cabinets with the real thing and use some of it daily, and try to remember to use ALL of it. : )

Another thing I remembered - I lost a LOT of stuff in TWO different fires we had over the years, and much of it had NEVER been used. So, I say - GO for it and enjoy it, I am!
Barbara in AL

Hello Nancy & Gang,
Merry M-I need your help regarding the Chicken Wonton Cup recipe. I am finalizing my list of ingredients for the wonton roundup party on Sat (12/15) and I don't know where to find Major Grey's Chutney. If it is not available here, could you or someone tell me what I can use as a substitute? I REALLY want to make this one. We love chicken and this sounds awesome.

Nancy, I want to try the Cola Baked Ham you posted. Do you put the sugar only on the fat side or all over?
Thanks, Mimi ^..^

Hi everyone
I hope someone can help. I have a 1971 Betty Crocker cookbook with my favorite Quick Nut Bread recipe missing. The page #52 This include that recipe and it's variations. I want to make my favorite Banana bread for gifts. Thank you in advance for the help. Happy Holidays to all.
Barbara in Wentzville ,Mo

For Fran in Florida, I have a chocolate and Ritz cracker recipe that might be the one you're talking about. Looks and tastes just like Girl Scout Chocolate Mint Cookies. Here's the recipe:

Girl Scout Chocolate Mint Cookies (copycat/clone recipe)
1 lb. dark chocolate disks (I get mine at A.C. Moore's or Michael's)
3 Tbsp. shortening (I use Crisco)
6-9 drops peppermint oil to taste (not extract)
1 or 2 sleeves Ritz crackers

Melt chocolate and shortening in a bowl in microwave for about 1 minute and 30 seconds (my microwave is about 1000 watts, so adjust time accordingly). Add peppermint oil and mix well. Place bowl of melted chocolate over a pan with boiling water to keep the chocolate warm. Place a Ritz cracker on a fork and dip in the melted chocolate. Shake off excess chocolate and place on waxed paper to cool.

*If the melted chocolate is too thick, add shortening as needed. Trust me, it will not alter the taste.

Hi to all of you!
Thanks to all of you for sharing some of your favorite recipes. Just like everyone else, I look forward to reading the newsletter each day and checking out the TNT recipes. I love all the chatter from everyone!

To TONA: Glad to see you are back. I missed you and all your great recipes.

To Carol looking for a ragdoll cat: Have you tried www.petfinder.com? You can actually do a search for a particular breed of animal. You might find a ragdoll like that. I just checked the site and there were 210 listings for ragdoll cats in the US and Canada. Hope you find one. We have two and they keep us entertained. They are quite the cats!

Thanks for the marvelous newsletter,
Nancy in Tennessee

This is a hint for Diane ( Dec 11) that I learned last weekend when I first tasted Pfeffernuesse Cookies (called Pepper Nuts at the bazaar I got mine from).I don't have a recipe for you, but the lady who made them told my friend who used to make them dropping the dough from a spoon, that she refrigerates the dough for awhile, then rolls it in ropes, cuts them to size and bakes them. Bet this would take a lot less time then dropping from a spoon. Thought you might appreciate the hint.
Carla/OR

To Etta: The small loaf cakes I mentioned are made with home canned fig preseves--not fresh figs. If interested, I'll be glad to send the recipe.
Jackiet from Louisiana

for Debi in NC -
I have made these pecans several times and where ever I take them .. they never last too long.

Cajun Spiced Pecans
1 pound pecan halves
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper

Combine all ingredients in slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 15 minutes. Turn to LOW and continue to cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally for 2 hours.

Transfer nuts to a baking sheet and cool completely.
Elaine/Arlington, TX

Hi, All~ Because I wasn't happy with a tasteless beef roast years ago (was rare in center, but mostly gray around it), I've never baked another one. Just stuck to no-problem beef pot roasts and meatloaves instead. However, I've a request for Roast Beef on Christmas Day and don't want to ruin a (recommended) 3 lb. Top Sirloin Butt I plan on buying. There's many ways to bake given on web, but cannot decide which is best. Does anyone have a no-fail TNT recipe for a medium-rare roast? Thanks in advance.
Carol/SoCal

*This may be a repeat recipe.  I could not remember if it had been posted before.

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Messages that pertain to canning and home remedies are no longer included in the newsletter.  Messages that pertain suggestions and opinions about health issues are not posted as well.

Some messages have been edited to avoid duplicate information that has been posted in recent newsletters.
Nancy Rogers