Monday, December 24, 2007

Philadelphia Chocolate-Vanilla Swirl Cheesecake

This one isn't really quick, but it was pretty easy. I decided to tackle something a little fancier for Christmas dessert. I just about killed my 23 year old handmixer on this one. LOL

20 Oreo sandwich cookies crushed (about 2 cups)
3 Tbsp butter, melted
4 packages (8 oz each) Philadelphia Cream Cheese (softened)
1 Cup Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla
1 Cup Breakstone's or Knudson's Sour Cream
4 Eggs
6 Squares Baker's Semi-Sweet Chocolate, melted, cooled

Preheat oven to 325. Line a 13x9" baking pan with foil, letting the ends extend over the sides of the pan.

Mi the cookie crumbs and butter and press down firmly onto the bottom of a prepared pan. You can use a measuring cup if you like. Bake 10 minutes

Beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla in a large bowl with an electric mier on medium speed until well blended. Add sour cream and mix well. Add eggs, one at a time, beating on low speed after each one, just until blended.

Remove 1 cup of the batter, set aside. Stir melted chocolate into the remaining batter in large bowl, pour over crust.

Top with spoonfuls of the remaining 1 cup plain batter.

Cut through the batters with a knife several times to make a swirled effect. Bake 40 minutes or until center is almost set. Cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Use the foil handles to lift the cheesecake from the pan before cutting to serve. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Makes 16 servings, 1 piece each.
---
The directions also say you can buy Philadelpha Ready-To-Eat cheesecake filling if you want it a lot faster!

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Using your grocery bargains to create great gifts

You can use your stocking up and grocery bargains from throughout the year in creative ways to make wonderful Christmas gifts.

Stephanie Nelson writes, "When you’re short on cash and your gift list is long, it’s time to get creative by using super grocery bargains to make holiday gifts and attractive baskets."

More Here

1 Chicken can give you 3 meals

"I have a husband and 2 children. My husband and I will cook one whole chicken either on the grill or boil it and get at least 3 meals out of it for our family." MORE