A Showy Piece

Tonight the moon was a showy piece. Its half moon shape gleamed porcelain white against the deep blue sky. It certainly was a lovely night to take a walk around the neighborhood. The crisp cool air was invigorating and I enjoyed looking at all my neighbors' autumn decorations. This time of year is one of my favorite times. I have had fun decorating inside and out plus adding a bit of entertaining to the month. I am posting a picture I took over the weekend. Through the lens I was able to capture a lake view as well as Halloween decorations on the table. Perhaps some of these recipes will put you in a festive mood as you approach the bewitching night. Later in the week I will post Tombstone Brownies just in time for Day of The Dead, November 1.

Carrot Cake

this recipe can also be baked as cupcakes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of white sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 eggs beaten
• 2 tsp. baking soda
• 2 TB. cinnamon
• 1 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1 small can crushed pineapple drained
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 cup white flour
• 1/2 cup coconut

Directions:

• Beat all ingredients till mixed well
• Pour into a greased 9 x9 pan. I find a glass one works the best
• Bake 350 for 30 minutes-check: make sure toothpick comes clean from the center

Frosting

• 3-4 cups of powdered sugar
• 3 oz. cream cheese softened
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• start out with 1/4 cup of milk beat and keep adding milk till right consistency for spreading
• use black sprinkles on top of white cream cheese frosting

Warning: Guard this dessert carefully since fairies have been known to leave their footprints behind in the frosting. It is one of their favorites!

Pecan Appetizer

Ingredients:

• 1 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1 1/2 cup grated swiss cheese
• 1/3 cup Miracle Whip
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 Parmesan cheese
• 3/4 to 1 cup finely chopped pecans

Directions:

• Beat all ingredients
• Grease a glass pie pan with PAM
• Spread mixture in glass pan
• Sprinkle parsley flakes on top
• Add chopped pecans
• Bake uncovered at 350 about 15 minutes
• Stir after 8 minutes

Serve warm with assorted crackers

Sombrero Spread

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 TB. chili powder
• 1/2 can vegetarian refried beans
• 1 jar chunky salsa mild or medium
• 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 lb. hamburger cooked and drained

Directions:

• Brown meat with onion and drain
• In a medium saucepan on low heat add all ingredients and cook till smooth and warm for 10 minutes (uncovered)

Serve in a bowl with chips