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Red Velvet Cupcakes

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Ingredients:

  • Sponge
  • 60 grams unsalted butter
  • 140 grams caster sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 tbsp red food colouring
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 30 grams unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 225 grams all purpose/plain flour
  • 120 ml buttermilk
  • 1/2 tsp cider vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • Frosting
  • 25 grams salted butter
  • 125 grams cream cheese
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 125 grams confectioners/icing sugar

Instructions:

Step 1
Makes 12 cakes
Step 2
Preheat oven to 180°c/350°f/gas 4
Step 3
Line a 12 hole cupcake pan with paper cases
Step 4
Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until pale. Slowly add the egg until well incorporated
Step 5
In a seperste bowl beat the vanilla, colouring, salt and cocoa into a thick paste and beat into the butter mixture
Step 6
With the mixer on a slow speed, add the flour and buttermilk alternating each and begining and ending with the flour
Step 7
Stir the vinegar into the baking soda and fold into the mixture
Step 8
Leave to stand for 3 minutes
Step 9
Spoon the pan into the paper cases to 3/4 full
Step 10
Bake for 15 minutes or until a knife comes out clean
Step 11
Cool on a wire rack
Step 12
To make the frosting: beat the butter and cream cheese together until there are no lumps
Step 13
Add the vanilla and gradually add the sugar
Step 14
Either use a piping bag or a spoon to decorate your cakes once cool

The Ultimate Guide to Making Homemade Peanut Brittle

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Welcome to our comprehensive guide on making homemade peanut brittle! In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this beloved treat in the comfort of your own kitchen. From selecting the finest ingredients to achieving that perfect crunch, we’ve got you covered.

The History of Peanut Brittle
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich history of peanut brittle. Believed to have originated in India, this confection has been enjoyed for centuries across various cultures. Its simplicity and irresistible taste have made it a staple in many households, especially during festive seasons like Christmas and Diwali.

Tips for Success
Use a Candy Thermometer: Achieving the perfect texture relies heavily on reaching the correct temperature.
Work Quickly: The mixture sets fast, so have all your ingredients and tools within reach.
Customize: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or add-ins for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Ingredients
To begin our homemade peanut brittle journey, let’s gather the following ingredients:

1 cup of granulated sugar
1/2 cup of light corn syrup
1/4 cup of water
1 cup of roasted peanuts
1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of baking soda
A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Before starting the cooking process, ensure that you have all your ingredients measured and ready to go. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.

2. Heat the Sugar Mixture
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely.

3. Cook to Golden Brown
Once the sugar mixture begins to boil, insert a candy thermometer into the saucepan. Continue cooking the mixture, without stirring, until it reaches 300°F (150°C), also known as the hard crack stage.

4. Add the Peanuts and Butter
Carefully stir in the roasted peanuts and unsalted butter until well combined. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture turns a golden brown color.

5. Incorporate Vanilla and Baking Soda
Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla extract, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so be cautious.

6. Spread onto Baking Sheet
Immediately pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, using a spatula to spread it evenly into a thin layer. Allow it to cool and harden completely at room temperature.

7. Break into Pieces
Once the peanut brittle has cooled and hardened, gently break it into bite-sized pieces using your hands or a kitchen mallet.


Congratulations! You’ve successfully mastered the art of making homemade peanut brittle. Whether you’re indulging in it yourself or gifting it to loved ones, this sweet and crunchy treat is sure to delight. Enjoy!

Easy Cherry Pie Recipe: A Delightful Dessert to Impress Your Guests

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Looking for the perfect cherry pie recipe? Look no further! This easy cherry pie recipe is sure to impress your guests with its delicious flavor and simple preparation.

Indulge in the sweet goodness of a homemade cherry pie with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this delightful dessert will have everyone coming back for seconds. With fresh cherries and a flaky crust, this cherry pie is the ultimate comfort food that brings joy to any occasion.

1. Getting Started
Embark on your culinary journey by gathering all the necessary ingredients for this cherry pie masterpiece. From ripe cherries to buttery pie crust, each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

2. Preparing the Crust
Master the art of pie crust with our simple yet foolproof recipe. Achieve that perfect flakiness by combining flour, butter, and a pinch of salt, then chilling the dough for optimal texture and ease of handling.

Soft Sugar cookies

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Looking for the perfect Soft Sugar cookies recipe? Look no further! This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to bake deliciously soft sugar cookies that will melt in your mouth. From ingredients to step-by-step instructions, we’ve got you covered.

Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe: Baking Bliss in Every Bite
Introduction
Soft sugar cookies are a delightful treat enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these cookies never disappoint. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating the perfect batch of soft sugar cookies that are sure to impress.

Sprinkle cookie

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Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp vanilla
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • As many sprinkles as you want
  • Pinch salt
  • 1 1/3 cup tub butter

Peanut butter and honey oatmeal cookies

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Ingredients:

  • 3 c oats
  • 2 c dark brown sugar
  • 4 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • (Optional)3tbsp crunchy peanut butter
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 c butter
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 1/2 c flour

Instructions

Step 1
Heat oven to 350 and place parchment paper on a medium baking sheet or grease pan
Step 2
In a medium bowl mix flour a pinch of salt and baking soda set aside
Step 3
Melt butter then in a large bowl mix together the brown sugar and melted butter add vanilla then eggs one at a time then the honey the mixture should be goopy at this point
Step 4
Stir in peanut butters into the goopy brown sugar mixture then slowly add flour mixture and stir until smooth then fold in oats (take breaks if needed it can be hard on the wrist to mix taking a break will not affect the outcome)
Step 5
Scoop with spoon or preferred cookie scoop onto baking sheet and bake for 13 minutes or until brown at edges and enjoy (make sure its slightly cool or completely cooled so you don’t hurt your mouth)

Easiest Pizza Dough

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Outline

  1. Introduction to homemade pizza dough
  2. Ingredients needed for the easiest pizza dough
  3. Step-by-step instructions for making the pizza dough
    • Mixing the ingredients
    • Kneading the dough
    • Proofing the dough
  4. Tips for perfect pizza dough
  5. Benefits of making pizza dough at home
  6. Variations and customizations for the dough
  7. How to store pizza dough
  8. Frequently asked questions about pizza dough
    • Can I freeze pizza dough?
    • How long does homemade pizza dough last in the fridge?
    • Can I use whole wheat flour for pizza dough?
    • What is the best way to roll out pizza dough?
    • Can I make gluten-free pizza dough?

Easiest Pizza Dough

Introduction

Pizza is a beloved dish enjoyed by people all around the world. While ordering pizza from your favorite restaurant is convenient, there’s something special about making it at home. Not only does homemade pizza allow you to customize your toppings, but it also gives you control over the quality of the ingredients, especially the dough. In this article, we’ll explore how to make the easiest pizza dough right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients Needed for the Easiest Pizza Dough

To make the perfect pizza dough, you’ll need:

  • All-purpose flour
  • Instant yeast
  • Salt
  • Warm water
  • Olive oil That’s it! With just these five simple ingredients, you can create a delicious base for your homemade pizza.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Pizza Dough

Mixing the Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and salt.
  2. Slowly add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.

Kneading the Dough

  1. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  2. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.

Proofing the Dough

  1. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles and divide it into individual portions for pizzas.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Dough

  • Use warm water to activate the yeast, but make sure it’s not too hot to kill the yeast.
  • Let the dough rise in a warm environment to facilitate yeast activity.
  • Don’t skip the kneading process; it helps develop gluten, resulting in a chewy texture.
  • Experiment with different flour ratios for variations in texture and flavor.

Benefits of Making Pizza Dough at Home

Making pizza dough from scratch offers several advantages:

  • You have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier option.
  • It’s cost-effective compared to store-bought dough.
  • Homemade dough allows for customization and experimentation with flavors.

Variations and Customizations for the Dough

  • Add herbs or spices to the dough for extra flavor.
  • Substitute whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a healthier alternative.
  • Experiment with different ratios of flour and water to achieve the desired texture.

How to Store Pizza Dough

  • Store leftover pizza dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pizza Dough

Can I freeze pizza dough?

Yes, pizza dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

How long does homemade pizza dough last in the fridge?

Homemade pizza dough can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use whole wheat flour for pizza dough?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all or part of the all-purpose flour in pizza dough recipes.

What is the best way to roll out pizza dough?

For a thin crust, use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a circle. For a thicker crust, use your hands to gently stretch the dough.

Can I make gluten-free pizza dough?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free pizza dough.

Conclusion

Making homemade pizza dough is easier than you might think and offers numerous benefits. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen skills, you can create delicious pizzas right in your own home. Experiment with different flavors, toppings, and techniques to find your perfect homemade pizza recipe.

Unique FAQs

  1. Can I use a bread machine to make pizza dough? Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough, but you may still need to let it rise separately.
  2. What’s the best way to get a crispy crust? Preheating your oven and using a pizza stone or baking steel can help achieve a crispy crust.
  3. Can I use honey instead of sugar in pizza dough? Yes, honey can be used as a sweetener in pizza dough recipes, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
  4. Can I add cheese or herbs directly into the dough? Yes, you can incorporate cheese or herbs into the dough for added flavor, but be mindful of the moisture content.
  5. Is it necessary to let the dough rest after kneading? Yes, allowing the dough to rest helps relax the gluten and improve its texture.

Pain au Chocolat recipe

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Pain au Chocolat, also known as chocolate croissant, is a delicious French pastry filled with chocolate. It’s a favorite treat for breakfast or dessert, combining flaky layers of pastry with rich, melted chocolate. In this article, we’ll explore the history, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to make this delectable pastry at home.

Pain au Chocolat translates to “chocolate bread” in French. It originated in France and has since become popular worldwide for its irresistible combination of buttery pastry and chocolate filling.

Pain au Chocolat is believed to have been created in France in the early 19th century. It gained widespread popularity in bakeries across the country and eventually spread to other parts of Europe and beyond.

Ingredients:

  • 4 hours
  • 24 servings
  • For dough
  • 500 grams flour
  • 50 grams sugar
  • 30 grams yeast
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1/3 oz salt
  • 15 grams honey
  • For paste
  • 200 grams margarine
  • 25 grams flour
  • For filling
  • 24 individual dark/milk chocolates

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pain au Chocolat

Preparing the Dough

  • Roll out the puff pastry dough into a rectangle.
  • Cut the dough into smaller rectangles of equal size.

Adding the Chocolate Filling

  • Place a piece of dark chocolate on each rectangle of dough.
  • Roll the dough around the chocolate to form a cylinder.

Rolling and Cutting the Dough

  • Seal the edges of the dough by pressing lightly.
  • Cut slits on top of each pastry for ventilation and decoration.

Proofing and Baking

  • Let the Pain au Chocolat proof for about 30 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven and bake the pastries until golden brown.

Variations of Pain au Chocolat

While the classic Pain au Chocolat uses dark chocolate, you can experiment with different types of chocolate such as milk chocolate or white chocolate for a unique flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pain au Chocolat warm for breakfast or as a delightful dessert. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pain au Chocolat

  • Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
  • Ensure the dough is properly chilled and rolled for flaky layers.
  • Brushing with egg wash before baking adds a shiny finish to the pastries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is Pain au Chocolat?
    • Pain au Chocolat is a French pastry filled with chocolate and known for its flaky texture.
  2. Is Pain au Chocolat the same as a chocolate croissant?
    • While similar, Pain au Chocolat has a straighter shape compared to the crescent shape of a chocolate croissant.
  3. Can I use different types of chocolate for filling?
    • Yes, you can experiment with various chocolates like dark, milk, or white chocolate.
  4. How long does Pain au Chocolat stay fresh?
    • Pain au Chocolat is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days.
  5. Can Pain au Chocolat be frozen?
    • Yes, you can freeze Pain au Chocolat for up to a month. Reheat in the oven before serving.

brazilian brigadeiro recipe

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Ingredients:

  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 lemons (or more to taste)
  • 2 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar for garnish
  • 1 tsp lemon zest for garnish

Instructions

Step 1
Add condensed milk, lemon and lemon zest on a heavy bottom pan and mix well until all is incorporated. If you would like a heavier lemon taste, you can add as much as you like.
Step 2
Add the butter and take to medium-low heat mixing constantly (I like using a flexible spatula the best)
Step 3
Its important not to stop stirring, otherwise the milk will burn and stick to the pan.
Step 4
Cook until you have a pudding like texture and when you tilt the pan, the mixture slides off of it unsticking to the bottom.
Step 5
Lightly grease a large plate with butter and then pour the mixture onto the plate. Let cool completely for 1 – 2 hours.
Step 6
Once the mixture has cooled, very lightly grease your hands with butter and grab half a tablespoon of the mixture and roll into a ball.
Step 7
Roll the ball on sugar. Repeat steps 6 and 7 until your brigadeiro mixture is finished.
Step 8
Garnish each little brigadeiro with a bit of lemon zest on the top.
Step 9
Eat right away or you must store them in an air tight container. They will last about a week (but they wont make it because they are heavenly). Enjoy this little Brazilian bomboms!

Easy Pineapple Bars

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Ingredients:

  • 15 min
  • 24 servings
  • 2 Tbsp sugar
  • 1 1/4 C flour
  • 1 C butter, cold, cut up
  • 1 1/2 C crushed pineapple
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 C sugar
  • 2 Tbsp cornstarch
  • 3 egg yolks

Instructions

Step 1
Mix sugar, flour and butter in food processor or with pastry cutter and press into a 9″x13″ baking pan. Bake 15 min at 350°
Step 2
Boil pineapple, lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks and spread over crust.
Step 3
Beat 3 or 4 egg whites with 3/4 C sugar to soft peaks. Spread over pineapple mixture. Bake slowly until brown. (20-25 min)