Cheese Curd In Paradise

Chocolate

Chocolate Saltine Cracker Toffee

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Chocolate Saltine Cracker Toffee is a simple Christmas or holiday treat that is perfect for a dessert tray or a party. Saltine crackers and brown sugar buttery toffee are baked together and topped with rich semi-sweet chocolate. A perfect sweet bite everyone will love!

candy stacked on a napkin

Simple sweets and candy are a staple of Christmas food cuisine traditions in our house. I love to make different types of candy and treats. I also love when I have a simple recipe with simple steps and consistent results. Enter Chocolate Saltine Cracker Toffee, some people call it “Christmas Crack”, but I am not into that, and it is simply “cracker toffee” in my house.

This recipe is so simple and the ingredients are likely something you keep on hand in your pantry. Saltine crackers and a simple brown sugar toffee create a rich, buttery, sweet, and crisp layer topped with a sprinkle of salt, and a creamy semi-sweet chocolate. Once the candy sets and cools it is chopped and enjoyed throughout the holiday.

candy in a holiday tin
Welcome to #ChristmasSweetsWeek 2019! Co-hosted by Terri from Love and Confections and Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures! What better way to celebrate the holidays than with food and fun? 25 bloggers from around the country have come together to share some of their favorite sweet Christmas recipes!! Deck the halls and get ready for very merry sweet treats, like fudge, cookies, Christmas morning breakfasts, layer cakes, cocoa, and more! Follow along on social media with our #ChristmasSweetsWeek hashtag. Happy Holidays!

Enjoy these #ChristmasSweetsWeek recipes from our bloggers:

Christmas Beverages:
White Cranberry Moscow Mule from Love and Confections

Christmas Breakfasts:
Sugarplum Pinwheels from Palatable Pastime

Christmas Pastries and Desserts:
Cake Mix Crinkle Cookies from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Candy Cane Rice Krispies Treats from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
Caramel Gingerbread Cupcakes from Jolene’s Recipe Journal
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bread from Sweet Beginnings
Powdered Sugar Pound Cake with Pecans from Shockingly Delicious
Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies from Blogghetti
Snow Globe Cake from The Redhead Baker

Christmas Candies:
Chocolate Saltine Cracker Toffee from Cheese Curd In Paradise
Christmas Snack Mix from Katie’s Cucina
Gingerbread Truffles from Daily Dish Recipes
candy ingredients on a baking sheet

What do you need to make Chocolate Saltine Cracker Toffee?

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How do you make Chocolate Saltine Cracker Toffee?

  1. Pre-heat oven to 400°F.
  2. Line a 10×15 rimmed baking sheet with foil. Lightly spray with cooking spray and set aside.
  3. Place the crackers in even rows on the baking sheet.
  4. In a sauce pan, add sugar and butter. Bring to a simmer while whisking and allow the sugar to dissolve.
  5. Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract.
  6. Pour the toffee over the crackers and spread it till smooth even.
  7. Place baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5 minutes.
  8. While toffee crackers bake melt the chocolate chips in 30 second increments.
  9. Remove crackers from the oven and allow the toffee to stop bubbling. Pout chocolate over the crackers and spread till smooth.
  10. Place toffee in the fridge for 8-12 hours to allow it to cool and set.
  11. Once the toffee has set remove from fridge and remove it from the foil. Cut it into pieces with a knife and serve. Store in an air tight container in a cool dry area.
candy in a holiday tin

Looking for more delicious holiday treats?!

Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Candy

Grinch Shortbread Cookies

Hot Chocolate Chip Cookies

Homemade Puppy Chow

Grinch Rice Krispie Treats

candy held in hand

Are you following me yet? What are you waiting for?

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candy held in hand

Chocolate Saltine Cracker Toffee

Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword candy, chocolate, christmas
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Fridge Time 8 hours
Servings 24 pieces

Ingredients

  • 1 sleeve saltine crackers
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

  1. Pre-heat oven to 400°F.
  2. Line a 10×15 rimmed baking sheet with foil. Lightly spray with cooking spray and set aside.
  3. Place the crackers in even rows on the baking sheet.
  4. In a sauce pan, add sugar and butter. Bring to a simmer while whisking and allow the sugar to dissolve.
  5. Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract.
  6. Pour the toffee over the crackers and spread it till smooth even.
  7. Place baking sheet in the oven and bake for 5 minutes.
  8. While toffee crackers bake melt the chocolate chips in 30 second increments.
  9. Remove crackers from the oven and allow the toffee to stop bubbling. Pout chocolate over the crackers and spread till smooth.
  10. Place toffee in the fridge for 8-12 hours to allow it to cool and set.
  11. Once the toffee has set remove from fridge and remove it from the foil. Cut it into pieces with a knife and serve. Store in an air tight container in a cool dry area.
candy stacked on a napkin

Cheese Curd In Paradise uses affiliate links. These links are at no additional cost to the reader and/or user. However, Cheese Curd In Paradise will make commission is you click the link AND make a purchase.


Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Candy

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Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Candy is a fantastic easy candy recipe. Perfect for snacking, a cookie tray, or for gifting! Creamy chocolate, peanuts, salt, and a few sprinkles make a new holiday favorite. #ChristmasSweetsWeek

candy in a holiday tin

It is hard not to get excited for Christmas and holiday candy this time of year! There are so many delicious homemade goodies! We are chocolate lovers in our house. My husband and sons particularly love peanuts as well. I love to make candy during the holidays, and I especially love a recipe that is a little hands-off and super easy for a sweet treat.

My Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Candy is as easy as they come. Everything goes into the slow cooker and about an hour and a half later of practically hands-free prep besides a few stirs and scoops, and I have delicious little clusters that we can enjoy, or gift to family and friends!

Like I said, this candy is also a great gift. I like to place the candy in mason jars, close, and tie seasonal bow around the lid for a quick and easy gift for a holiday party.

candy in a holiday tin

What do you need to make Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Candy?

  • Unsalted Peanuts
  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
  • 70% Dark Chocolate
  • Almond Bark
  • Salt
  • Sprinkles
  • Wax Paper
  • Slow Cooker
candy ingredients in the slow cooker
candy ingredients in the slow cooker

How do you make Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Candy?

  1. Place peanuts, chocolate chips, dark chocolate, almond bark, and salt into the slow cooker. Do not stir. Set temperature to low and cook for 1 hour.
  2. Open lid and stir the candy gently. The solids should be melted. Cover and cook an additional 30 minutes.
  3. Open the lid and stir. Place several sheets of wax or parchment paper on the counter.
  4. Spoon 1 1/2 tbsp portions on the wax paper. Top with sprinkles.
  5. Wait for the candy to completely harden and set before storing the candy. The candy can be kept at room temperature, but it is prepared to store in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

My chocolate is not setting- what can I do?

Make sure that you use the correct amount of almond bark or the chocolate may have trouble setting. To help the process, the candy can be placed on a cookies sheet and placed in the fridge to help the chocolate set.

Does almond bark have almond in it?

It does not. There is flavoring in almond bark but it, actually, contains no almonds. It is a vanilla flavored candy coating.

Can I freeze the candy?

Yes, the candy can remain unfrozen 2-3 week, but frozen it will keep for over a year. Simple store the candy in a freezer safe sealable bag.

candy in a holiday tin with a hand grabbing a piece

Looking for more delicious holiday treats?!

Grinch Shortbread Cookies

Hot Chocolate Chip Cookies

Homemade Puppy Chow

Grinch Rice Krispie Treats

Homemade Peanut Brittle from House of Nash Easts

candy in a holiday tin

Are you following me yet? What are you waiting for?

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candy in a holiday tin

Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Candy

Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword chocolate
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 65 candies

Ingredients

  • 32 oz unsalted dry roasted peanuts
  • 32 oz white almond bark, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 4 oz 70% chocolate, cubed
  • 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • sprinkles optional
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

  1. Place peanuts, chocolate chips, dark chocolate, almond bark, and salt into the slow cooker. Do not stir. Set temperature to low and cook for 1 hour.
  2. Open lid and stir the candy gently. The solids should be melted. Cover and cook an additional 30 minutes.
  3. Open the lid and stir. Place several sheets of wax or parchment paper on the counter.
  4. Spoon 1 1/2 tbsp portions on the wax paper. Top with sprinkles.
  5. Wait for the candy to completely harden and set before storing the candy. The candy can be kept at room temperature, but it is prepared to store in the fridge.
candy in a holiday tin
Welcome to #ChristmasSweetsWeek 2019! Co-hosted by Terri from Love and Confections and Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures! What better way to celebrate the holidays than with food and fun? 25 bloggers from around the country have come together to share some of their favorite sweet Christmas recipes!! Deck the halls and get ready for very merry sweet treats, like fudge, cookies, Christmas morning breakfasts, layer cakes, cocoa, and more! Follow along on social media with our #ChristmasSweetsWeek hashtag. Happy Holidays!

Enjoy these #ChristmasSweetsWeek recipes from our bloggers:

Christmas Beverages:
Fluffernutter Latte from The Kitchen Prep
Hansel and Gretel Gingerbread Latte from Blogghetti
Mexicoco from YumGoggle
S’mores Hot Chocolate from For the Love of Food

Christmas Breakfasts:
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes from Daily Dish Recipes
Flaky Nutella Christmas Tree from Shockingly Delicious
Gingerbread Sweet Rolls from The Redhead Baker
Grinch Pancakes from Katie’s Cucina
Mini Chocolate Peppermint Baked Donuts from It Bakes Me Happy

Christmas Pastries and Desserts:
Angel Sugar Crisps from Jolene’s Recipe Journal
Chocolate Cherry Loaf from Seduction In The Kitchen
Hot Chocolate Cookie Cups from Sweet Beginnings
Peppermint Chunk Cookies from A Day in the Life on the Farm
Snowman Cupcakes from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
Toy Soldier Frosted Brownies from Big Bear’s Wife
Vegan Gingerbread Layer Cake from The Baking Fairy

Christmas Candies:
Bourbon Balls from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Chocolate Peppermint Truffles from Family Around the Table
Christmas Crack (Saltine Toffee) from Palatable Pastime
Gingerbread Fudge from Love and Confections
Slow Cooker Chocolate Peanut Candy from Cheese Curd In Paradise
Spiced Pecans with a Rum Glaze from Karen’s Kitchen Stories
Star Crunch Inspired Bars from Our Good Life

Jack Skellington Peanut Butter Cups #HalloweenTreatsWeek

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I received products from sponsor companies to aid in the creation of the #HalloweenTreatsWeek recipes. All opinions are mine alone.

This is Halloween! This is Halloween! What would Halloween be without our favorite ghoul- Jack Skellington of The Nightmare Before Christmas? These white chocolate peanut butter cups adorned with Jack’s grin are filled with a yummy honey vanilla peanut butter filling.

peanut butter cups on a tray

The Nightmare Before Christmas is one of my favorite movies because it is Halloween AND Christmas. Jack is from Halloweentown and ventures to Christmastown where all sorts of big ideas transpire- for better and for worse. My family and I have always loved Jack and the movie. I am a big fan for Halloween horror movies, but it is good to have a little variety and something to enjoy with my boys.

peanut butter cups on a tray
  Check out the amazing #HalloweenTreatsWeek recipes from our bloggers today!
peanut butter cups on a tray

These peanut butter cups are made with a creamy white chocolate. For the filling I mix together creamy peanut butter, honey, and a little vanilla. The combination of the three keeps the peanut butter sweet and creamy- the honey flavor is delicious! I use Adam’s Vanilla Extract and it is delicious with the peanut butter!

peanut butter cups on a tray

For this recipe, I used my black glittery decorating gel from our sponsor, Wilton. This works perfect for the fine details for Jack’s face. A regular black icing will work as well, but it is important that it is a fine tip so you can get all the Skellington details.

peanut butter cups on a tray

What do you need to make Jack Skellington Peanut Butter Cups?

peanut butter cups on a tray
Print
peanut butter cups on a tray

Jack Skellington Peanut Butter Cups

Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword candy, Halloween, white chocolate
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Chilling Time 25 minutes
Servings 12 peanut butter cups

Ingredients

  • 12 oz white chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 1/2 tsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Black decoration gel or icing
  • Muffin liners
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

  1. Place 1/2 white chocolate chips into a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 15 second intervals to melt. Stir at each time interval till smooth.

  2. Arrange muffin liners on a cookies sheet. Spoon chocolate into the liners pushing it up on the sides. Place tray in fridge for 15 minutes to allow chocolate to harden

  3. In a bowl, mix the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla.

  4. Remove candy from the fridge and spoon a small bit of peanut butter into each one.

  5. Place the second 1/2 of white chocolate in the microwave safe bowl. Repeat the process to melt. Spoon chocolate over the peanut butter. Return to fridge to let them harden.

  6. Remove from fridge and use the black gel to make a Jack Skellington face on the cup.

peanut butter cup on a pumpkin
    Happy Halloween! It’s October which means it’s time for Spooky Season and this year’s #HalloweenTreatsWeek event! #HalloweenTreatsWeek is hosted by Angie from Big Bear’s Wife & its a creepy and haunting week-long event is filled with some amazingly wicked Halloween treats, recipes and some frightfully fun giveaways.

“When witches go riding, and black cats are seen, the moon laughs and whispers ‘tis near Halloween.”

Halloween Treats Week LOGO For the 2nd annual #HalloweenTreatsWeek event we have 41 fantastically talented bloggers that are sharing their favorite Halloween recipes throughout the week! There are going to be over 160 Halloween themed recipes shared during this year’s #HalloweenTreatsWeek and we can’t wait for you to see them all! Follow the hashtag #HalloweenTreatsWeek on social media and look at the bottom of each post to see all of the Halloween recipes that we’re sharing!

Plus, don’t forget that we have 6 (six) great giveaways for you this week thanks to our amazing sponsors!

Scroll down to take a look!

Prize #1

Prize #1 — Dixie Crystals is giving away a “Dinner and Dessert Set” – ONE 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker, a Pyrex mixing bowl set plus some fun Dixie Crystals items like a Dixie Crystal Apron and Cookbook!

 

Prize #2

 

Prize #2 — Adam’s Extract is giving away – 1 Gift Pack – including 4oz Adams Best, 1.5 oz Peppermint, 1.5oz Almond, 1 bottle vanilla cinnamon sugar, 1 bottle pumpkin pie spice

   

Prize #3

Prize #3 —Wilton is giving away a Texturra 7-Piece Bakeware Set

 

Prize #4

Prize #4 — Sweets and Treats Shop is giving away a large baking box of goodies! Sweets and Treats will send one lucky winner a large assortment of sprinkles and lines and other samples of their products!

 

Prize #5

 

Prize #5 — Treat Street USA is giving away a set of Holiday Treat Decorations (1 Gummy Assortment, 1 Marshmallow Snowman, 1 Toy Solider and 1 Gingerbread Men)

 

Prize #6

Prize # 6– Litehouseis giving away the following: 1 Litehouse® Honeycrisp Apple Cider, 1 Litehouse® Old Fashioned Caramel, 1 Litehouse® Pumpkin Spice Caramel, 1 Litehouse® Butterscotch Caramel & 1 Litehouse® Chocolate Dip, Snack Packs     a Rafflecopter giveaway    

Giveaway open to US Residents 18 years or older. All entries will be verified. No PO Boxes Please. Prizes will be sent directly from sponsors to winners, bloggers are not responsible for prizes. This giveaway runs from October 7th – October 13th at 11:59PM EST. Winners will be selected soon afterward and contacted by e-mail. Winners will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. There are a total of 6 (six) prizes and therefore we will have a total of 6 (six) winners. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law.

  Disclaimer: These posts and recipes are part of the week-long event, #HalloweenTreatsWeek but all opinions are 100% mine! We would like to Thank our amazing sponsors: Dixie Crystals, Adam’s Extract, Wilton, Sweets and Treats Shop, Treat Street USA and Litehouse! These wonderful sponsors provided the prize packs for our giveaways and also sent samples and products to the #HalloweenTreatsWeek bloggers to use in their recipes.

Cheese Curd In Paradise uses affiliate links. These links are at no additional cost to the reader and/or user. However, Cheese Curd In Paradise will make commission is you click the link AND make a purchase.


Zombie Dirt Cups #HalloweenTreatsWeek

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I received products from sponsor companies to aid in the creation of the #HalloweenTreatsWeek recipes. All opinions are mine alone.

It does not need to be the night of the living dead to enjoy these yummy Zombie Dirt Cups. Chocolate pudding layered with crushed mint Oreos. Topped with old bones, fresh dirt, and a zombie hand make these a quick and fast Halloween favorite.

pudding cups with zombie hands

Anyone else a lover of zombie and apocalypse type movies?! I love them, and Halloween is the perfect time to give the undead a little love in the form of their own dessert.

These are Zombie Dirt cups- perfect for a quick dessert to enjoy anytime. This recipe uses chocolate pudding, crush mint Oreos- because zombies need a little green, sprinkles (bones and black), and gummy zombie hand. Perfect for any zombie lovers out there!

pudding cups with zombie hands

I am a big Walking Dead fun, and love to watch the show. My husband and I love watching the different zombie movies as well. The first scene in The Walking Dead with the little zombie girl walking in the parking lot still gives me the chills.

Do you have any favorite movies about the undead? As far as movies go, I love the 28 Days Later and 28 Weeks Later. I keep hoping for another installment, but no such luck.

pudding cups with zombie hands
Check out the amazing #HalloweenTreatsWeek recipes from our bloggers today!  
pudding cups with zombie hands

What do you need to make Zombie Dirt Cups?

pudding cups with zombie hands

Big thanks to our event sponsors! I used Sweets and Treats Shop bone sprinkles and black sprinkles and they are so cute and perfect! You can use what every creepy variety of sprinkles work best for our dirt cups!

I also used for the cute gummy zombie hand Treat Street USA! The are edible too!

pudding cups with zombie hands

Looking for more delicious Halloween offerings?!

Hocus Pocus Spell Book Brownies

Pasta and Eyeballs

Pumpkin Ham and Cheese Pockets

French Bread Mummy Pizzas

Candy Corn Rice Krispie Treats

Meaty Bat Wing Pasta

Mummy Meatballs

Pumpkin Pie Milkshake

Print
pudding cups with zombie hands

Zombie Dirt Cups

Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Keyword chocolate, Halloween
Prep Time 20 minutes
Servings 6 cups

Ingredients

  • 10 cups Chocolate Pudding (2 5.9 boxes)
  • 14 Oreos- crushed
  • 3 tbsp bone sprinkles
  • 2 tbsp black sprinkles
  • 6 gummy zombie hands
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

  1. Place 1/4 cup of pudding in the bottom of the cups.

  2. Place a tablespoon of oreos and bone sprinklrd top the putting. Repeat this process once more.

  3. Top the pudding with a little more Oreo, sprinkle, and zombie hands.

  4. Place in fridge till ready to serve.

pudding cups with zombie hand
    Happy Halloween! It’s October which means it’s time for Spooky Season and this year’s #HalloweenTreatsWeek event! #HalloweenTreatsWeek is hosted by Angie from Big Bear’s Wife & its a creepy and haunting week-long event is filled with some amazingly wicked Halloween treats, recipes and some frightfully fun giveaways.

“When witches go riding, and black cats are seen, the moon laughs and whispers ‘tis near Halloween.”

Halloween Treats Week LOGO For the 2nd annual #HalloweenTreatsWeek event we have 41 fantastically talented bloggers that are sharing their favorite Halloween recipes throughout the week! There are going to be over 160 Halloween themed recipes shared during this year’s #HalloweenTreatsWeek and we can’t wait for you to see them all! Follow the hashtag #HalloweenTreatsWeek on social media and look at the bottom of each post to see all of the Halloween recipes that we’re sharing!

Plus, don’t forget that we have 6 (six) great giveaways for you this week thanks to our amazing sponsors!

Scroll down to take a look!

Prize #1

Prize #1 — Dixie Crystals is giving away a “Dinner and Dessert Set” – ONE 6-Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker, a Pyrex mixing bowl set plus some fun Dixie Crystals items like a Dixie Crystal Apron and Cookbook!

 

Prize #2

 

Prize #2 — Adam’s Extract is giving away – 1 Gift Pack – including 4oz Adams Best, 1.5 oz Peppermint, 1.5oz Almond, 1 bottle vanilla cinnamon sugar, 1 bottle pumpkin pie spice

   

Prize #3

Prize #3 —Wilton is giving away a Texturra 7-Piece Bakeware Set

 

Prize #4

Prize #4 — Sweets and Treats Shop is giving away a large baking box of goodies! Sweets and Treats will send one lucky winner a large assortment of sprinkles and lines and other samples of their products!

 

Prize #5

 

Prize #5 — Treat Street USA is giving away a set of Holiday Treat Decorations (1 Gummy Assortment, 1 Marshmallow Snowman, 1 Toy Solider and 1 Gingerbread Men)

 

Prize #6

Prize # 6– Litehouseis giving away the following: 1 Litehouse® Honeycrisp Apple Cider, 1 Litehouse® Old Fashioned Caramel, 1 Litehouse® Pumpkin Spice Caramel, 1 Litehouse® Butterscotch Caramel & 1 Litehouse® Chocolate Dip, Snack Packs     a Rafflecopter giveaway    

Giveaway open to US Residents 18 years or older. All entries will be verified. No PO Boxes Please. Prizes will be sent directly from sponsors to winners, bloggers are not responsible for prizes. This giveaway runs from October 7th – October 13th at 11:59PM EST. Winners will be selected soon afterward and contacted by e-mail. Winners will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. There are a total of 6 (six) prizes and therefore we will have a total of 6 (six) winners. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law.

  Disclaimer: These posts and recipes are part of the week-long event, #HalloweenTreatsWeek but all opinions are 100% mine! We would like to Thank our amazing sponsors: Dixie Crystals, Adam’s Extract, Wilton, Sweets and Treats Shop, Treat Street USA and Litehouse! These wonderful sponsors provided the prize packs for our giveaways and also sent samples and products to the #HalloweenTreatsWeek bloggers to use in their recipes.

Hocus Pocus Spell Book Brownies #HalloweenTreatsWeek

by 13 Comments


I received products from sponsor companies to aid in the creation of the #HalloweenTreatsWeek recipes. All opinions are mine alone.

It is just a little Hocus Pocus!!! These Hocus Pocus Spell Book Brownies are the perfect sweet treat for a Halloween party, or to enjoy at home with your favorite Sanderson “sistaaahhhhs”.

brownies on a platter

Oh my you guys….. this is it. This is Halloween Treats Week. This week is devoted to Halloween themed creations from over 40 different recipe creators and bloggers. I can say to you with certainly that you will not find a better selection of Halloween goodies that this week-long event with me a my fellow Halloween enthusiasts.

I am starting this week with my Hocus Pocus Spell Book Brownies. These brownies are homemade and packed with chunks of yummy chocolate. They are rich, fudgey, and a little spooky. They will have you calling “Boooooooooooooooook”to your kitchen hoping one will come flying to you.

brownies on a platter

To make these beauties I used a few products from Halloween Treats Week sponsor, Wilton. I have worked with Wilton a few times, and they are so generous, and their seasonal goodies hit it out of the park every time! If you follow me on Instagram (CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW) you know I did an unboxing to show off all the goodies. Well, for this recipe I put them to good use and used the black decorating icing with a piping tip, and the candy eyes. The eyes are so fun because they come in a little case with 3 different sizes. For the brownies I alternated between the large ans medium size for Winifred’s Spell Book’s glaring eye.

I love how these turned out, and they are a perfect for a little Halloween nostalgia. I don’t know about you, but Hocus Pocus was the movie for me and my friends during Halloween. It came out when I was 10, and I loved it. AND I still love it. I get excited every fall when it is on t.v. and I get to watch my favorite witchy “sistaaaaahhhhs”. I still laugh at the part when they set off the sprinklers in the museum, and the sisters eventually realize that they are being sprayed with water and not the “burning rain of death”.

brownies on a platter
Check out the amazing #HalloweenTreatsWeek recipes from our bloggers today!

Oreo Fudge Ice Cream Pie

by 11 Comments


Oreo Fudge Ice Cream Pie has creamy vanilla ice cream mixed with crushed Oreo and a layer of rich fudge. Topped with more Oreo, whipped cream, and chocolate sprinkles and an delicious chocolaty dessert.

oreo pie in the pie pan

I have a treat for you today! Like a REAL treat. A prep in 10 minutes treat. A treat with oreos and fudge. Today happens to be National Ice Cream Pie Day, and I just can’t turn away from celebrating!

This pie is so simple to put together and the flavors are delicious. I use a pre-made Oreo crust to make things simple and quick, rich and thick jarred fudge topping, mounds of creamy vanilla ice cream, and as many Oreos as I can cram in! In my opinion, the best part of this pie is the ooey gooey layer of fudge on the bottom- it makes the pie so chocolaty and rich.

I know I said that I was on the back to school wagon, and I know you are thinking- ice cream pie = summer. This pie is perfect to cool down during the dog days of summer. However, this pie is great to make in advance and pull from the freezer to celebrate a successful first day of school! I know that I love to create food transitions with my kids- we just enjoyed corn dogs at the fair since the fair is in town, and we love to get our “fair eats” on! We also enjoyed cheese curds (duh, Wisconsin!), and cheese fries- so delicious. My other fair food tradition is a big cup of the fresh lemonade. I missed the giant pickles, but I think we are going to head back today for a bit and I will go pickle hunting.

oreo pie in the pie pan

I am not alone in my ice cream pie love- check out these awesome recipe from a few of my blogging friends!

Ice Cream Pie Day


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oreo pie in the pie pan

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oreo pie in the pie pan

What do you need to make Oreo Fudge Ice Cream Pie?

  • Oreo pie crust
  • Oreo cookies
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Jarred hot fudge
  • Whipped cream
  • Sprinkles

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use cookies and cream ice cream?

Sure! Just cut the amount of crushed Oreo in half.

How can I store the pie?

Simple cover and store in the freezer.

Where can I find an Oreo pie crust?

I find mine at my local grocery store, but they are sold at other large retainers as well.

Can I add other mix-in to my ice cream filling?

Oh yes! I love to add mini chocolate chips or m&ms!

How long does it take for my pie to set in the freezer?

I recommend about 4-5 hours.

oreo pie in the pie pan
Print
oreo pie in the pie pan

Oreo Fudge Ice Cream Pie

Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword chocolate, Pie
Prep Time 15 minutes
Freezer Time 5 hours
Servings 8 people

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 qt vanilla ice cream
  • 20 Oreo, crushed
  • 8 in Oreo pie crust
  • 2/3 cup jarred fudge
  • Whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles, for topping
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

  1. Let the ice cream sit on the counter to soften for about 10 minutes.

  2. Stir 1/2 the amount of crushed Oreo into the ice cream. Stir the cookies into the ice cream. Place remaining Oreo in a bag or bowl, and set aside to use later for topping.

  3. In the pie crust, spread an even layer of the fudge in the bottom of the crust.

  4. Next, spread the ice cream into the pie crust and smooth the top. Place in the freezer and freeze for 4-5 hours.

  5. Remove pie from freezer and top with remaining cookies. Pipe whipped cream along the edge and sprinkle with chocolate sprinkles. Serve. Store pie, covered, in the freeze.

pie on a plate

Cheese Curd In Paradise uses affiliate links. These links are at no additional cost to the reader and/or user. However, Cheese Curd In Paradise will make commission is you click the link AND make a purchase.


Puppy Chow Recipe {Muddy Buddies}

by 8 Comments


Puppy Chow or Muddy Buddies is my favorite childhood treat to make for a party, day at the beach, or a late night snack. Crispy crunchy cereal, rich chocolate and peanut butter, and a powdered sugar coating make this a #1 request in our house!

puppy chow in a bowl

If you haven’t tried Puppy Chow (or Muddy Buddies or Monkey Munch…there are lots of different names for this sweet treat!) you are probably wondering:

What is it???

Puppy Chow is a delightful no-bake treat made using:

chex cereal: corn and rice varieties work best

peanut butter: I recommend a creamy peanut butter that is not too granular.

chocolate: I recommend using semi- sweet chocolate chips!

butter: I typically use salted because I have more that on hand, bu unsalted works fine as well.

vanilla: I like to use pure vanilla– not imitation.

and powdered sugar: The delicious coating all around the snack!

The peanut butter, chocolate, butter, and vanilla are melted together and mixed with the cereal. Then, the fun part, everything is gently shaken together in a bag with powdered sugar to make a delicious, and slightly messy, treat!

puppy chow in a bowl

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puppy chow in a bowl

Puppy Chow was always a been a holiday staple where I live. It is on the tables for snacks at Christmas, Thanksgiving, and most potlucks. It is also really popular as a children’s snack, and made as a snack for kids sporting and club events. I love to make this and store it in a big gallon bag to bring to events and friend’s houses.

There is more awareness of sensitivities and allergies to nut products in schools, but I have heard that substituting sunflower butter can make to treat a nice snack for everyone to enjoy and yields a similar result since the consistency of sunbutter and peanut butter is very close. However, I am not a professional that works with food allergies so please make a choice to use what is best for your family.

Check out a few other tasty cereal snacks from a few friends:

Oreo Funfetti Rice Krispie Treats from The Crumby Kitchen

Ranch Nuts ‘n’ Bolts from Dish ‘n’ The Kitchen

Banana Bread Snack Mix from Finding Zest

puppy chow in a bowl

Frequently Asked Questions

I don’t like semi sweet chocolate- any alternatives?

Yes! Milk chocolate chips work well-as do peanut butter chips if you like a little extra!

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Hmmm…. my best answer is it depends on the type. I have tested with most chex and crispix. I have found that crispx works pretty well, but is not as sturdy as chex. If you have a specific question click “contact me” and I will do my best to help you.

How to I store puppy chow?

When the puppy chow is dry, put it in an airtight container, and store on the counter for up to 2 weeks. If you live in an area that has high heat and humidity you may want to keep it in the fridge to prolong the shelf life.

Is there a way to sub out the butter?

Yes! I add an additional 1/4 cup of peanut butter when omitting the butter.

puppy chow in a bowl

Here are a few handy products to get you started on your Puppy Chow!

Jumbo Sealable Bags

Microwavable Mixing Bowls

Chocolate Chips- Yum!

Airtight Container Storage

puppy chow in a bowl

Check out more no-bake treats for summer!

“Fried” Ice Cream Cake

Creamy Lemon Cheesecake Parfaits

Caramel Apple Dip

Strawberry Margarita Popsicles

puppy chow in a bowl
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puppy chow in a bowl

Puppy Chow {Muddy Buddies}

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Cooling Time 4 minutes
Servings 16 people

Ingredients

  • 12 oz box chex cereal (I typically prefer rice)
  • 12 oz bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

  1. Place the chex into a large sealable bag so it is ready for the chocolate, set aside.

  2. Place chocolate, peanut butter, and butter into a large microwave safe bowl. Microwave for 45 seconds and stir. Microwave for 20 second intervals until the chocolate is smooth. Add the vanilla and stir. Allow the chocolate a minute to slightly cool.

  3. Pour the chocolate over the chex, seal the bag, and gently shake to coat. Be very careful not to stir too vigorously because it will break the cereal. A few clumps of cereal is fine.

  4. Before adding the powdered sugar make sure that the chocolate is not too hot. If it is still pretty warm allow it a minute or two with the bag open to cool. This will help the sugar not immediately be absorbed and will give a better powdered sugar coating.

  5. Add the powdered sugar. Seal the bag and gently shake to coat.

  6. Store in an air-tight container.

puppy chow in a bowl

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Toll House Cookie Pie

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Toll House Cookie Pie is a back pocket pie that you need! All the ingredients can be kept on hand for those times you need a quick dessert- or you need a sweet treat!

slice of pie on a plate

Mother’s Day is coming up next month, and I love to make a sweet treat for my mom and sister to celebrate. This Toll House Cookie Pie is a perfect recipe to share to make the mothers in your life feel extra special. I love the simplicity of this recipe, and I almost always have all the ingredients on hand at home. The beauty of this dessert is it takes one mixing bowl, a frozen pie crust, and an oven that separate you from a warm slice of cookie with a nice scoop of cream vanilla ice cream on top. The butter in the pie allows for a nice crisp top to cover a chocolaty and gooey cookie underneath. So delicious!

slice of pie on a plate

One question I get on this pie is “can it be made without nuts”, and it absolutely can. I typically make two pies when I make this- one with nuts and one without nuts. I will say that the pie without the nuts does not rise as high, but it is just as delicious.

slice of pie on a plate

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slice of pie on a plate

Here are a few things to get you started!

Pie Server

Pie Plate

Pie Carrier

I love having different types of dessert plates and pans. I can be indecisive about how I want to serve something, and options are my friend. I also really love the pie carrier I linked above because it is so nice for transporting if you are given the dessert job for some type of gathering.

slice of pie on a plate

Need more dessert options? I got you covered!

Carrot Cake Swirl Cheesecake

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Layer Cake

Lemony Cheesecake In a Jar

Print
slice of pie on a plate

Toll House Cookie Pie

Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword chocolate, cookies, Dessert, Pie
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8 people

Ingredients

  • 1 9-inch deep dish pie shell, thawed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels
  • 2/3 cup chopped walnuts
  • Ice Cream or Whipped Cream, for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325° F.

  2. Place the eggs in a large mixing bowl. Beat on high speed till foamy. Mix in the butter, flour, granulated sugar and brown sugar. With a spoon, stir in chocolate chips and nuts. Pour evenly into the pie shell.

  3. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes. To test if the pie is ready to leave the oven, insert a knife halfway to the center and it should come out clean. Remove from oven and cool. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Recipe Notes

Adapted from NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® 

slice of pie on a plate

This post contained affiliate links.


Grinch Rice Krispie Treats #ChristmasSweetsWeek

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This post is sponsored in conjunction with ChristmasSweetsWeek. I received product samples from sponsor companies to aid in the creation of the ChristmasSweetsWeek recipes. All opinions are mine alone.

Today is the last day of Christmas Sweets Week. I hope that your sugary sweet desires have been met with all of the recipes and fun we have shared this week. I know I had a blast and am so thankful to our organizers and sponsors who make events and giveaways like this possible. Please take a peek at my intro post to learn more about out sponsoring companies. 

Today, I am sharing my recipe for Grinch Rice Krispie Treats. The Grinch is one of my favorite holiday figures. Currently, we have a blow-up holiday lawn decoration of the Grinch that is pulling the lights from our house, and I am pretty sure my two year old loves him more than Santa. 

rice krispie treat squares dipped in white chocolate and sprinkles

Big thank you to our sponsor  Sweets & Treats Boutique! 

Sweets & Treats, a party and baking supplies manufacturer and wholesaler, started out of a baking industry need for truly grease-proof cupcake liners. From there, the company expanded into a handful of specialized categories including the latest, Sweet Sprinkles, their one of a kind sprinkles and sprinkle mix line. With hundreds of truly unique products, they are a one stop shop for your next party!

Sweets & Treats is giving one winner the Year of Sprinkles Box at a $150 value. It contains holiday mixes, classic sprinkles, and some of their most popular sprinkles. Check out my intro post for more information on the giveaway, and don’t forget to enter at the top of this post. 

rice krispie treat squares dipped in white chocolate and sprinkles
rice krispie treat squares dipped in white chocolate and sprinkles

These treats are so fun to put together, and they are a very easy and a very delicious dessert perfect for a holiday party- especially if there are kiddos invited! I brought these with my Sparkling Wine, Cranberry, and White Chocolate Layer Cake to a friend’s ugly sweater party and they were a hit! 

rice krispie treat squares dipped in white chocolate and sprinkles

This recipe uses peppermint marshmallows which are sold seasonally. Regular marshmallows work just fine. The peppermint marshmallows are VERY mild, and regular will be a comparable flavor. The peppermint marshmallows have swirls of light red, and that is where the treats get their pink coloring. If using regular you can certainly add a little food coloring to achieve the same color. 

Print
rice krispie treat squares dipped in white chocolate and sprinkles

Grinch Rice Krispie Treats

Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword Dessert, Holiday
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 16 treats

Ingredients

  • 5 tbsp butter
  • 12 oz bag peppermint marshmallows
  • 7 cups rice krispie cereal
  • 12 oz white chocolate chips
  • 3-4 drops green food coloring
  • 1/3 cup Grinch sprinkles
US Customary – Metric

Instructions

  1. Place butter in a microwave safe dish and melt butter in microwave. This takes about 45 seconds.
  2. Place butter and marshmallows in a large microwave safe bowl. Stir to coat and microwave for 90 seconds. Remove from microwave and stir to ensure that the mixture is smooth.
  3. Gently stir cereal into the marshmallows until all coated and evenly mixed.

  4. Spread the rice krispie mixture into a 9×13 pan. Press the mixture into the pan. Tip: use a flat bottomed glass coated lightly with butter to press into pan and it will not stick and allow you to get a flat top. Allow the mixture to cool uncovered for about 10 minutes. Cut the treats into squares so you are able to dip. If you find the treats too sticky give them a little more time to cool and set. 

  5. In a microwave safe bowl melt the chocolate chips. Heat in 10 second intervals stirring in between each heat. The chocolate should be glossy and smooth. If it becomes chalky or gritty you will need to start a new batch. Add food coloring to archive a medium green color. 

  6. Dip 1/3 of each square into the chocolate. Tap the side of the bowl to remove excess. Place treats on wax paper and sprinkle with Grinch sprinkles. Allow chocolate to set before serving or storing in a covered container. 

Here is what is on the agenda for the last day of Christmas Sweets Week! 



#ChristmasSweetsWeek recipes:

Beverages:

Eggnog Martini from Everyday Eileen
Frozen White Hot Chocolate from Jonesin’ For Taste
Instant Pot Peppermint Hot Chocolate from The Crumby Kitchen
Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen
Salted Caramel White Hot Chocolate from Who Needs A Cape?
Salted Caramel Mocha Latte from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks

Breakfast:

Easy Homemade Eggnog Pancakes from Love and Confections

Candies:

Christmas Coffee Fudge from For the Love of Food
Cookie Butter Bark from Seduction in the Kitchen
Eggnog Sugar Cookie Bark from 4 Sons ‘R’ Us
Grinch Rice Krispie Treats from Cheese Curd in Paradise
Homemade Fudge from Juggling Act Mama
Pecan Rum Balls from Take Two Tapas
Peppermint Marshmallow Fudge from Daily Dish Recipes
Pumpkin Honey Bun Cake from Family Around the Table

Desserts:

Eggnog Gingerbread Layer Cake from Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Butter Rum Glaze from Daily Dish Recipes
Gingerbread Cupcakes from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Italian Anise Biscotti from Blogghetti
Orange Meltaways from An Affair from the Heart
Snowman Christmas Cake from The Redhead Baker

a Rafflecopter giveaway
rice krispie treat squares dipped in white chocolate and sprinkles

Thank you ChristmasSweetsWeek Sponsors: Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Lorann Oils & Flavors, Torani, Joyjolt, and Sweets & Treats Boutique for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for ChristmasSweetsWeek recipes. All opinions are my own. The ChristmasSweetsWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Six (6) winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The ChristmasSweetsWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter or any other social channel mentioned in the ChristmasSweetsWeek posts or entry.


Chocolate Pumpkin Layer Cake

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I am having so much fun with #Choctoberfest! We are so lucky to have such generous sponsors and today I am highlighting our sponsor Imperial Sugar. 

For 175 years, Imperial Sugar has been a trusted name in family kitchens. Imperial Sugar provides high-quality sugar and sweetener products and over 100 years of time-tested recipes. Products include granulated sugar, light and dark brown sugar, free-flowing sugar, powdered sugar, sugar shakers and Steviacane® (Stevia + sugar blend). Imperial Sugar products are 100% pure cane sugar, non-GMO and provide consistently delicious results. For participating in Choctoberfest, I received sugar, measuring cups, and baking mats, but words, recipes, and silliness are all mine. 

I decided that I needed to make a cake for Choctoberfest, but not just any cake. I needed to make a chocolaty pumpkin layer cake. 

A Slice of cake on a white plate with the full cake in the background

I mean, how can you resist that?! I folded semi-sweet chocolate chips into my pumpkin spice cake,baked till it was just right, layered with a light chocolate buttercream, and topped with chocolate chips. This cake is absolutely delicious. Baking with pumpkin can lead to dense cakes, but that is not the case for this cake. The cake is rich, but not dense and it is full of flavor from the pumpkin spice. The buttercream uses semi-sweet chocolate chips (versus cocoa powder), powdered sugar, and a touch of milk. The frosting so light and not too sweet- the perfect topping. 

You know you want a slice of that. 

A Slice of cake on a white plate with the full cake in the background

I know layer cakes can feel intimidating, but do not let that stop you! There are a few important best practices that I can advise.  One, make sure the cake is cool before you frost. In fact, I like to make mine the night before I plan to frost because the cake is much easier to transfer and work with. Two, use buttered parchment in your cake pan because it will save you from clingy cake tops. Third, use a spreading spatula, like this one, to frost, and make sure to do a thin crumb coat before the full icing (this can also double as a scraper to smooth the sides or you could use something like this). This will keep the crumbs out of the surface icing and give you a prettier cake. Also, if something isn’t perfect, oh well- I like the look of a little texture to my frosting. The cake tastes great, and you can cover it with a little icing. If anyone complains they don’t deserve to eat cake with you anyways, right?! 

Full round cake with chocolate buttercream and topped with chocolate chips

As I said, I am so grateful of the generosity of our sponsors so I can provide you with as many tasty treats as possible! 

Full round cake with chocolate buttercream and topped with chocolate chips

My kids and husband were immediately intrigued when they came home and saw a layer cake on the table. They were very curious as to who was having a birthday and, most importantly, when we were eating, Needless to say that everyone’s chocolate sweet tooth was not left disappointed! 

Full round cake with chocolate buttercream and topped with chocolate chips

Many thanks, again, to Imperial Sugar for your support and generosity! Check out Imperial Sugar on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and Twitter for more sweet adventures! A Slice of cake on a white plate with the full cake in the background

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A Slice of cake on a white plate with the full cake in the background

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Layer Cake

Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Keyword cake, Dessert, Pumpkin
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 10 people

Ingredients

Cake

  • 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing
  • 2 cups flour, plus extra for dusting
  • 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Chocolate Buttercream

  • 12 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 10 oz semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled to room temperature
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 tbsp milk
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  1. Arrange oven rack in the middle of the oven. Heat oven to 350 degrees. 

  2. Use a little butter and toweling to grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line bottoms with parchment paper and place in the pan. Butter the paper and then flour the paper. 

  3. In a large bowl, whisk flour, pumpkin pi spice, baking soda, baking powder and salt together. Set aside. 

  4. Using an stand or electric mixer, cream 8 tablespoons butter and granulated sugar together until fluffy.  Beat in eggs one at a time. Next, stir in pumpkin purée. Stir in flour mixture about half a cup at a time until smooth. Gently fold in chocolate chips.

  5. Divide batter into the cake pans and bake for about 35 minutes, or until a tester inserted in center comes out clean. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, run a knife around edges, place upside down onto racks or counter, and peel off paper. Let cakes cool completely.

  6. While cakes cool, mix 12 tablespoons butter and confectioners' sugar together with a stand r electric mixer. Mix in chocolate and vanilla extract and beat until smooth. Add milk by the tablespoon, blending well after each addition, until it reaches spreading consistency. If you need to use more milk please add slowly. 

  7. Place one cake layer, smooth side up, on a platter. Ice top with a crumb coat. Place second layer, smooth side down, on top; ice top and sides of cake with a crumb coat. Complete icing the cake with the remainder of the frosting. 

Recipe Notes

Recipe Adapted from New York Times