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Toasted Coconut Banana Ice Cream

Hi everyone! Can you believe it’s almost MAY???!! I am just shocked by that! That means it’s almost summer. Hope you all are enjoying the glorious sunshine! As you know, with everything I have happening around here, I’m definitely feeling like spending less time in the kitchen & lightening up the menu a little bit. How about you?? But my sweet tooth is always tempting me to find new ways to still feel like I’m getting my little treats when I need them. I’m sure you all have seen the fabulous idea of making ice cream out of frozen bananas. Genius! Because it really does taste like ice cream, right?! But sometimes I want other flavors too – which means I start throwing other things in the blender with the bananas. When that happens- sometimes I come up with something I can’t live without. This Toasted Coconut Banana Ice Cream is one of those things.

The combo of banana & toasted coconut is just heaven for me.

It’s light, fresh & creamy. Perfect for these warmer days. I know that we will be having this all through summer. No guilt- I’m still getting a refreshing treat but with things that are good for me.

Print Recipe

Toasted Coconut Banana Ice Cream

Ingredients

3 large bananas - frozen
1/2 cup toasted coconut + more for topping
1/2 cup cream of coconut

Instructions

Place all ingredients in a high powered blender
Blend on high for several minutes until all ingredients are combined to a thick & creamy mixture.
You may need to scrape down the sides several times throughout the process.
Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container & store in freezer for 1-2 weeks.

For toasting the coconut – start here…

How to toast coconut – It’s so incredibly simple & keeps well.

So there you have it – a simple dessert you can whip up in just a few minutes.

Want More Frozen Banana Recipes?

Banana Cream Pie Frozen Yogurt

Toffee Banana Dippers

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Coconut Bananas Foster

By Kleinworth & Co 3 Comments

I’m sort of feeling like I’m back in the saddle today after a great trip with some AMAZINGLY INSPIRING women. I will be sharing all about it as soon as I can get my head wrapped around everything here. But I do have a YUMMY recipe to share with you that I know you will LOVE!!! Ever since I posted my Coffee Bean Syrup & used it on a stack of waffles with a giant scoop of vanilla ice cream, I have been wanting to create more things to put on top of waffles & ice cream. You know me- more is more when it comes to treats!! Certain flavors paried together just make me swoon- bananas & caramel, bananas & coconut, caramel & pecans, bananas & pecans. So I figured why not put it altogether for one decadent & absolutely delightful treat. Coconut Bananas Foster.

Now bananas foster is typically made with rum.

Yes the alcohol is cooked out – but I opted to use that Coffee Bean Syrup that I mentioned earlier in it’s place.

I used these giant Belgian Waffles stacked 3 high, topped with vanilla ice cream & then added my foster.

Heaven!! Absolute Heaven!

Print Recipe

Coconut Bananas Foster

Ingredients

1 stick butter
1 cup dark brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup Coffee Bean Syrup
2 bananas - sliced
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1-1/2 cups sweetened coconut - divided

Instructions

Melt a stick of butter in a pan on medium-high heat.
Add a cup of brown sugar.
Stir it up with heavy cream.
Stir in bananas
Add chopped nuts.
The mixture should be good and bubbly.
Pour in syrup
Remove from the burner and stir in 1 cup of the coconut.
Serve over waffles & vanilla ice cream & top with remaining coconut

Want more Caramel or Coconut?

Caramel Pear Breakfast Cake

Banana Coconut Donuts

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Vanilla Coffee Creamer

By Kleinworth & Co 9 Comments

I mentioned a couple days ago that I am doing an experiment with my coffee. I want to see if replacing the things I normally add to my cup with homemade versions changes how I generally feel. I have already created Homemade Vanilla Coffee Syrup that I like to put in my coffee with a little half & half. But I also tried my hand at making Homemade Vanilla Coffee Creamer because the hubs really likes to have the flavored creamers. The cool thing is that I can make this as needed – no more buying in bulk & I think it tastes better than what we were originally using too.

It’s so simple to make. Just add the ingredients to a mason jar- give it a good shake & done. I think it’s easier to pour from a smaller bottle, so I transferred a portion to these sauce bottles.

Print Recipe

Vanilla Coffee Creamer

Ingredients

1 can sweetened condensed milk
2 cups milk - I used 2%
1/3 cup vanilla coffee syrup

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a large mason jar & tighten the lid
Shake well - done
Store in refrigerator for up to 1 week (depending on how fresh your milk is that you used)
Give it a little shake before each use.

Want more HOMEMADE versions of your favorites?

Homemade Cherry Pie Filling

Homemade Kahlua

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Planting Potatoes

By Kleinworth & Co 4 Comments

While I’m still away at SNAP! Conference today I am so honored to have the wonderfully talented Suzi Worley here today to share some gardening tips with you all. I have known Suzi since we were both first learning our cameras & photography – long before we both started our businesses. She lives in CA – which as most of you know- is home for me, so I love seeing what she shares because it’s all so familiar. I get little glimpses of home with each & every post she creates. With the warmer weather I know that I am really excited to get started with planting once we get moved to our new home. Today Suzi is going to share some of her gardening tips. She is extremely knowledgeable on this topic with a thriving garden each & every year. So please give Suzi a warm welcome & enjoy!!

I’m so honored to be one of the featured bloggers on Kleinworth & Co! Gina’s asked me to talk about Gardening, and the timing couldn’t be more perfect, as its planting season in Northern California! As a former Iowa farm girl I come from a long line of gardeners, and a trip to anyone’s home was often met with “Come see what’s growing in my garden”. If you saw someone digging holes in their garden on Good Friday, they were likely planting potatoes. This tradition was pretty steadfast in Iowa. We’d also check the “Almanac” and plant potatoes about 4-6 weeks before the last frost date , but for luck, our family of gardeners would always plant some potatoes on Good Friday. (Even if it was a pot on a windowsill because of the snow.)

While most gardening catalogs sell “Seed potatoes” (Which are really potatoes you can grow, and not a package of seeds.) I’ve had luck with organic potatoes from the store, as well as leftover potatoes from last year’s harvest, but they could house diseases or nematodes, so to be safe feel free to get seed potatoes instead. (Do note that some store potatoes have been treated not to grow, so be sure to choose organic or something from the Farmers Market.)

The best growing potatoes are slightly “dry”, but not wrinkled, cracked, or spotty. If they’re too fresh the potatoes will end up rotting in the ground instead of growing. (If the potatoes seem too moist when you cut them, let them “cure” in a warm room for a day so a protective “skin forms” to help protect them from rotting.)

The key to potatoes is to find a part of the garden that gets plenty of sun and good drainage! Potatoes like having the soil moist, but not overly wet or too dry. We usually spend the week before gardening digging the soil about 2 feet down to ensure it has good drainage and isn’t compacted by the tiller. We then till the ground about 12 inches deep so the top layer is clump free. To plant, slice your potatoes into pieces (½” or larger) making sure there was at least one “eye” per piece, (Can you see the eyes in this picture?) and then plant them on the dry ground in holes spaced about 1 foot apart and about 3 inches deep, with the cut side down and the “eyes” up. As the potatoes grow to about 8-12” in height, we mound more dirt around the stems to encourage more potatoes. If a potato peeks through and gets a green sunburn, they become bitter, so be sure to add dirt as needed to prevent this from happening.

NOTE: You can plant an entire seed potato, as the more eyes on potato the more potatoes you’ll get.(But they’ll be smaller.) These new potatoes didn’t have many eyes, so were planted whole. If you want larger potatoes, make sure you plant pieces with 1-2 eyes. (I’m going to experiment with these and plant them in containers this year.)

Companion Plants:

Whenever possible I try and implement companion planting. By selecting companion plants you can help deter pests known to damage the plant, as well as encourage growth, and prevent damage from diseases or incompatibility that can cause the plant to struggle or die. It’s a great way to encourage healthy organic. While all of the following plants either help potatoes or are benefited by the plant’s proximity; the items in bold are powerhouses as far as potatoes are concerned helping with disease resistance and blight, as well as repelling the evil tomato bug and beetles.

Companion Planting: Beans, Broccoli, Cabbage, Chives,Corn, Coriander/Dill (Potato Beetle), Garlic (Potato blight), Horseradish (Potato Bug), Leeks, Lettuce, Nasturtium (Potato Beetle), Onions, Peas (Potato Beetle), Radish, Spinach, Turnip

Avoid: Asparagus, Carrot, Cucumbers, Eggplant, Tomatoes, Peppers, Pumpkins, Raspberries, Squash, and Sunflowers

Do you plant a garden? If so what is your favorite thing to grow? If you didn’t happen to get your potatoes in on Good Friday, no worries, there’s likely still time in most parts of the country, and there are plenty of other wonderful things you can plant in your garden or on your windowsill. I’ll be featuring some of my favorite combinations when I return in May, and look forward hearing about what’s growing in your gardens as well!

~ Suzi

Thank you so much Suzi for sharing all these wonderful tips.

I learned SO MUCH & I can’t wait to use all my new gardening knowledge.

Be sure to visit Suzi & check out her work at

Suzi Worley Photography

Want More Gardening Inspiration?

Spring Gardening Inspiration

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Quinoa with Sun Dried Tomatoes

By Kleinworth & Co 1 Comment

Happy Wednesday!!! I’m off to Salt Lake City today for SNAP! Conference! But that doesn’t mean there isn’t something FABULOUS here for you today. The wonderfully talented Carrie from Kenarry: Ideas for the Home is here today to share with you all Easy Family Dinner Ideas! So please give Carrie a nice warm welcome. When you are done grabbing this recipe, head over to her place & say hello.

Hi, I’m Carrie from Kenarry: Ideas for the Home filling in today while Gina’s away at the SNAP Conference. I’m excited to share a recipe with you for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Quinoa with Sun Dried Tomatoes. Nowadays a quick search on the internet for “quinoa recipes” will give you millions of results. Nevertheless, it’s always fun to experiment with this super grain. I enjoy combining it with different vegetables, sauces and flavors to see what new tasty concoctions result. I recently made a big batch of quinoa in my rice cooker, then added onion, garlic, parmesan and spices. I threw in some sun dried tomatoes to create a new delicious recipe you can enjoy as your main course or as a side dish — Creamy Garlic Parmesan Quinoa with Sun Dried Tomatoes!

Whether you’re keen on quinoa or trying it for the first time, you can hardly believe how many health benefits there are in such a tiny little grain. In the Forbes article, 7 Benefits of Quinoa: The Supergrain of the Future, Julie Wilcox shares how quinoa includes all nine essential amino acids, is high in protein and contains almost twice as much fiber as other grains. She also mentions quinoa has iron, lysine, magnesium and anti-oxidants. If you haven’t tried quinoa yet, you really ought to add this nutrient rich grain into your diet. For more about the health benefits of this super food, you can also check out the World’s Healthiest Foods website.

Print Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Quinoa with Sun Dried Tomatoes

Ingredients

4 cups cooked quinoa
3/4 cup of grated parmesan
1 medium onion chopped
3.5 oz packet of sun dried tomatoes cut into julienne strips approximately 1 cup
3 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon flour
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 1/2 cups of milk

Instructions

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion starts to turn clear.
Stir in flour.
Slowly add milk and parmesan.
Lower the heat and stir continuously until the sauce starts to thicken.
Mix in salt, pepper and italian seasoning.
Add the pre-cooked quinoa and stir until it's well coated. Heat thoroughly for 10 to 15 minutes.
Last add the sun dried tomatoes and continue to cook for a few more minutes.
Serve and enjoy.
PREP TIME: 10 minutes
COOK TIME: 30 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 40 minutes

NOTES: To make 4 cups of cooked quinoa in a rice cooker, use 1 1/3 cups of rinsed uncooked quinoa and 2 2/3 cups of water.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Quinoa with Sun Dried Tomatoes

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Quinoa with Sun Dried Tomatoes has enough protein and essential nutrients it can be enjoyed as your main course. A friend of mine added julienned spinach to pack in even more goodness. You could throw in slow cooker shredded chicken for a high protein dinner. We served it as a side dish with dill tilapia. (Sprinkle the tilapia with salt, pepper, garlic and dill. Bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.) You could also serve it alongside grilled steak or chicken and your favorite steamed vegetable or salad.

You can connect with Carrie via Blog, Google+, Pinterest, Facebook & Twitter.

Love garlic? Here are some other great side dish recipes for you!

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic Cabbage Slaw

Angel Hair Pasta in Burgundy Garlic Sauce

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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DIY Clay Coasters

By Kleinworth & Co 5 Comments

*Disclosure: Sponsored Post- I have been compensated for this post either monetarily or with product. All opinions are truthful & my own.

Among all the big things I am searching for while preparing for this house (additional dresser for the munchkin since she will finally have her own room, new dining room table, beds, etc.) I am feeling the need to remove the same old tired things we have had around the house for years. You know- those things that you move around from house to house & you put them out just because it’s what you have always put out. Well – it’s time for a change. The family pieces will be packed away, marked & put into the storage area. The remaining random junk- well, it’s going away. We are replacing as much as we can by either buying or making ourselves. One of the little things is the coasters in the media room. They have got to be 10 years old. Seriously – why have I not updated these before? Who knows- but the time was right. I couldn’t really find any that fit with our new decor. So I did what I always do when I can’t find what I want- make my own with Premo Clay. So I did & I replaced the old coasters with these DIY Clay Coasters. They are so easy!!

Let me show you how I did it so you can make some too.

I laid out my cutting mat & started with this Premo Clay set, Sculpey Essential Tool Kit & fondant cutters.

I chose my color pairings.

For this I did Copper/Peacock Pearl, Translucent/ Antique Gold, Ecru/ Bright Green Pearl, Pearl/Turquoise.

I rolled them semi flat before blending them together in random patterns.

I used my fondant cutter to cut the shape of the coaster.

I also used the texture wheel with the vine design wheel to make the pattern in the clay.

I then placed them on a parchment lined baking sheet & baked in a 275 degree oven for 30 minutes.

I removed them & allowed them to cool completely on the baking sheet before removing.

I glued some felt to the backs to make sure any rough spots don’t scratch the tables.

That’s it! It was so incredibly easy. Clean up was quick.

I LOVED working on this project & I will probably be making these as gifts for the family coming up.

They add the perfect pop of color & touch of whimsey I was looking to bring to the new house.

Find more Info & Connect Here

Facebook | Twitter | Blog | Pinterest

More Projects with Premo Clay

Want More Home Decor Ideas?

Updated House Numbers Sign

Office Organizer Board

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Easy Popsicles

By Kleinworth & Co 3 Comments

It’s warming up & all the outdoor festivities are starting!! This means that I am looking for refreshing ways to #KoolOff during these gatherings. Along with great food during these fun gatherings with friends, I also love to have drinks & cool treats available when we all get together. One thing I love to have for my guests is popsicles. They don’t have to take a lot of time to make either. This recipe for Easy Popsicles is one you will use again & again.

I started with Strawberry Kiwi Kool-Aid powder (my son’s favorite flavor).

I sprinkled a little in the bottom of each popsicle mold.

I then added the Kool-Aid Ready-To-Drink in Tropical Punch flavor but you could also use grape.

Insert the stick & place in freezer. I like to leave mine overnight for maximum chill.

That’s it! See- I told you it was simple.

Print Recipe

Easy Popsicles

Ingredients

1 packet Strawberry Kiwi Kool-Aid powder or any flavor you like
1 96 oz bottle Ready-To-Drink Kool-Aid in Tropical Punch - Grape

Instructions

Sprinkle a little bit of the Kool-Aid powder in the bottom of each popsicle mold
Fill each mold to the top with the Ready-To-Drink Kool-Aid
Place sticks in molds & freeze overnight
Enjoy! Quick & Simple.

These will definitely be a crowd pleaser at your next outdoor gathering during these warmer months.

I am a member of the Collective Bias® Social Fabric® Community. This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper amplification for Collective Bias and its advertiser. #CollectiveBias

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Illusions Photoshop Textures

By Kleinworth & Co 4 Comments

When I get the time to play with images in photoshop I like to use textures & overlays. It’s probably because when working with images of food, artistic edits usually are not the most appealing way to showcase the dish. Food should be left as clean & untouched as possible when processing. However- when I am processing things like portraits or scenery, I think textures are a great way to change the mood of the image or help to highlight certain parts of the shot.

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Easter Centerpiece

By Kleinworth & Co

Easter is almost here! I can’t believe it! I am feverishly working behind the scenes here to get things prepared & festive around the house to make this place look it’s best for Easter Sunday. One thing I really needed was a cute little centerpiece for the table. You know- something adorable to spruce up the spread of amazing food. So I started brainstorming & going through the craft cabinet to see what I could put together. Fortunately, with just a few supplies I had on hand & approximately 20 minutes – this Easter Centerpiece was complete.

Let me show you how you can make one of your own.

Here is what I started out with.

Empty International Delight creamer bottle, hot glue gun, burlap, ribbon, decorative stones, Peeps, skewers, paper Easter grass.

I had grabbed some flowers there too but ended up not using them.

I started by cutting off the wrapper of the creamer bottle.

Then I cut the top off where it starts to narrow so I had a vase like container.

I then hot glued the burlap around the bottle – leaving gaps in the burlap to create a ruffled look. To keep it in place I added a strip of hot glue every 3/4 inch or so around the bottle to tack down the burlap.

I tied this bright ribbon around to help cinch in the center of the ruffled burlap.

I added the decorative stones inside. They can’t really be seen- however they add a good weight to keep the whole thing from tipping over AND they help anchor the skewers in there too. Then I started skewering the Peeps & arranging them like flower stems in the container.

I added a little paper Easter grass at the top just to fill it all in & make it look all the more Easter festive.

That’s it- so simple & absolutely adorable!

I told you it was easy & you can make it with things you have already in the house.

Want more Easter Inspiration?? Visit the Easter IDeas Pinterest Board – you will LOVE it!

Visit International Delight

Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter @indelight | Instagram @indelight | YouTube

Want More Easter Decor?

Blue & Gold Easter Wreath

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of International Delight. The opinions and text are all mine.

Sour Raspberry Tom Collins

By Kleinworth & Co 13 Comments

A refreshing twist on a classic cocktail, this Sour Raspberry Tom Collins blends tart raspberries, fresh lemon juice, and gin for a bright, fizzy drink that’s perfect for summer sipping.

Now that it’s warmer, it’s so nice to whip up a fresh new beverage to cool the palate and kick back and relax. Who am I kidding?

There isn’t any relaxing going on here – life is in high gear. I’m completely tapped out, and I’m struggling to find moments in my days where I can carve out a little slice of escape and find a little mental peace.

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Updated House Numbers Sign

By Kleinworth & Co 2 Comments

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Elmer’s ProBond Advanced for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

The other day I mentioned to you all that we are building a new home. Because it's semi-custom there are things that just sort of "come with the house" that I'm not all that in love with. It's been a wonderful process so far & we have had quite a bit of input on how we want things. But then there are other things that are far too "generic" for me. I am one that really likes to make all aspects of my home unique to who I am. I don't like to follow trends or the crowd & that shows in my decorating & my overall home choices.

One of those things that just sort of "comes with the house" is the house numbers. This image is of the model home. You can see the numbers there- plain black & white. To make it worse – it's a plastic plate with the plastic numbers nailed to it. Well, for me- this just won't suffice. So I set out to create my own that we will place at the end of the driveway when we complete our landscaping.

I started with a scrolled board, Elmer's ProBond Advanced, Elmer's Wood Glue Max, 2 bags of mirror pieces, a wooden stick & numbers of the house.

I like working with the Elmer's Wood Glue & ProBond Advanced because it's Elmer’s strongest and safest multi-surface glue. It's able to provide strength, durability, and ease of use with a clean finished appearance. I love that it provides Home Improvers the ability to bond Mixed Materials such as wood to metal, glass to concrete, or ceramic to drywall without the messy residue often left behind from a polyurethane glue.

I started by coating the numbers in the Elmer's ProBond Advanced & covering them with the turquoise glass. I set them aside & waited for them to dry.

Once dry I glued them down on to my board. I taped off the scrolled portion of the board to keep the glue off that part. Then I added a thick coat of the Elmer's ProBond Advanced to the remaining portions of the board & added the silver mirror pieces. I then allowed 24-48 hours to let that dry. It looks like overkill here in this shot – but the excess fell off once I tipped it over.

Then I removed the tape & stained the scrolled edges of the board to give a nice contrast. It will also help the sign to match our future accents on the house. I gave the front a nice liberal coating of clear outdoor paint to seal it in & protect it from the weather.

I cut my large stick in half. Once the front of the board was was dry & flipped it over & glued the sticks to the back so it is able to stick in the ground. I gave it a coat of the clear paint on this side too. Once it dried it was ready to be used.

This will eventually be down in the corner of our front yard at the end of the driveway. We plan on adding some boulders, bushes & flowers all around it. I can't wait to see this each & every time I pull in & out of my driveway. It adds the perfect pop of "me" to the front yard. What a great improvement to our new home!!

You can visit Elmer's Mixed Materials Pinterest Board for more Home Improvement Inspiration

How would you use ProBond Advanced?

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Homemade Vanilla Coffee Syrup

By Kleinworth & Co 1 Comment

I think it’s fair to say that I have a pretty strong love affair with my coffee. I start my day with my 28 ounce mug filled to the brim. Everyone in the house knows that it’s best to talk to me after I have made it at least half way through that mug of jo. I love my morning coffee so much that when I am planning a trip- one of the things I research is how close the nearest coffee shop is to where I’m staying. Yep – it has to be a good STRONG cup with rich, bold flavor. I can’t live without my coffee. So you can imagine how bummed out I was when I started researching the ingredients in the things I add to my coffee. Yeah- a whole lot of things I can’t pronounce. That can’t be good. Plus I think those additives are making me feel not quite right. I don’t know for sure though & there was only one way to find out – but I wasn’t going to give up my coffee to do it. So I decided to do a little experiment & change what I’m adding to my cup. I started with this Homemade Vanilla Coffee Syrup.

It adds just what I like- along with a little splash of half & half. YUM! I’m going to give it about a month & see how I feel. See if I notice any changes in my skin or weight or just overall energy. I’ll keep you posted. In the meantime – I’m just enjoying the flavor of this in my cup. I think you will too.

Print Recipe

Homemade Vanilla Coffee Syrup

Ingredients

3/4 cup water
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Combine water & sugar in small saucepan
Heat on medium & bring to a boil - stirring constantly
Once all the sugar as dissolved remove from heat
Add vanilla - stir to combine
Transfer to sterilized bottle
Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks

Want more coffee recipes?

Best Chocolate Chip Coffee Bars

Chocolate Marshmallow Iced Coffee

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Cadbury Macaroons

By Kleinworth & Co 5 Comments

I have been telling you all how much I love coconut for a while now. I’m sure you have been wondering when I was going to make the perfect coconut cookie- the macaroon. Well – I actually did a few weeks ago & I shared them over on Lil’Luna as part of Kristyn’s contributor team. I was been so excited to share them here- because any coconut lover knows that macaroons are the ultimate coconut goodie. I decided to top them with some White Chocolate Cadbury candy eggs – because I love them & buy every variety every Easter. YUM-O! These Cadbury Macaroons hardly lasted a 24 hours in this house.

You could use the milk chocolate eggs in the pastel colors or the dark chocolate in the jewel tones. I opted for the white chocolate so they would stand out against the toasted coconut.

You probably need to make a double batch of these if you are serving them for company. They go fast.

Just a little squeeze of melted candy melts on there to hold on the egg- that’s it.

Print Recipe

Cadbury Macaroons

Ingredients

3 cups toasted coconut
4 large egg whites
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp vanilla or almond extract
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup candy melts in color of choice
24-30 white chocolate Cadbury candy eggs

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees - oven rack should be placed in the bottom 1/3 of your oven.
Toast your coconut - set aside
Whisk egg whites, sugar, extract & salt until they are combined & mixture looks frothy
Add coconut - stir until coated
Line baking sheets with parchment
Using wet hands - take a tablespoon sized portions of your coconut mixture & form into a balls & place on prepared cookie sheet
Bake 15-20 minutes or until a deeper golden brown & are holding together
Cool on baking sheet 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack to complete the cooling process.
In a double boiler- melt your candy melts
Carefully transfer to a piping bag & squeeze a little on top of each macaroon
Immediately top with your Cadbury candy egg before your pipped chocolate hardens.
Enjoy!

Want More Quick Recipes for your Easter spread?

Gluten Free – Chocolate Chip Cookie Cup Sundae

Chocolate Covered Bunny Marshmallows

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Peep Milkshake

By Kleinworth & Co 10 Comments

Remember a couple days ago when I shared my recipe for Peep Ice Cream Syrup? Well- if you know me, then you know I can’t just take something like Peep Ice Cream Syrup & just use it for a topping. I had to take it up just another notch & make this Peep Milkshake. Because – you know, a girl can only go so long with trying to eat right before she totally blows it & indulges in something sinful. The good thing is that I have 3 other little people here with me all day long while I sit here & create recipes- so what I made then had to be split 4 ways. So I was feeling a little better about the fact that I really had a very small portion of this. Plus I went to the gym later that night. Every sip put me in Peep Heaven.

I finally found a way to eat Peeps faster. How about that!

Oh – and you have to top it with some fun pink jimmies too.

Print Recipe

Peep Milkshake

Ingredients

1-1/2 cups vanilla ice cream
1/2 cup Peep Ice Cream Syrup
1/2 cup cold milk

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in blender - blend on high 1-2 minutes
Serve immediately

Want More beverages for your Easter celebration?

Creamy Watermelon Lime Chiller

Strawberry Pineapple Slush

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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DIY Easter Bucket

By Kleinworth & Co 2 Comments

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Duck Brand for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

My kids are getting older- but that doesn't mean that we stop giving them an Easter basket. I don't think anyone gets too old for an Easter basket – they just change a little. Geezz- I received a basket from my mom every year up until last & that's just because she's not with us now. So we changed the idea of the baskets for the kids this year. Gone are the days of huge baskets filled with tons of toys & candy & gifts that would rival Christmas. We have scaled back, cut out all the extra stuff & they now get a small basket with some candy. Since they have outgrown the traditional baskets we have filled in the past, I had them help me create some new little buckets to hold their candy. It was super easy & they loved creating their own DIY Easter Bucket & making them to fit who they are.

We started with these supplies – whip cream buckets, Duck Tape in standard size neon green, standard size glitter in pink & silver, minis in black, silver, green & pink, wire hangers. We used wire cutters,

Start by adding your tape in the colors & patterns of your choice until completely covered.

Cut the hanger & poke through the sides of the bucket & make a loop to secure.

We then also added little flags of tape around the handle to make them more fun.

The kids love that they were able to help with this. I'm LOVING the fun colors.

Neon & glitter so so hot right now.

Now each of them will know exactly which bucket belongs to them on Easter morning. They can also use these as organizers in their rooms. Can never be too organized- especially with all the things kids collect. I love that these are not Easter specific & so they can be out year round- especially if we remove the handle after Easter.

That's it- a fun & easy way to re-purpose empty buckets & a great project for the kids.

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Toasted Coconut Green Tea Scrub

By Kleinworth & Co 11 Comments

I know I have made it pretty clear around here that I love coconut. But you know- it’s not just for it’s great taste. I love it in my beauty routine too. One thing I can’t live without is a sugar scrub. I’m always exfoliating & a good homemade sugar scrub is the best way to do it- especially now that the weather is warmer & more skin will be exposed. (which also means stocking up on sunscreen too) Right now- my focus is on soft skin, so I made this Toasted Coconut Green Tea Scrub. The benefits of coconut & green tea are abundant, so why not put them together.

As you can imagine- it smells great.

The added grit of the ground toasted coconut really helps to buff that dryer skin.

But the coconut oil bringing it all together is the perfect moisturizer to seal in that freshly softened skin.

Print Recipe

Toasted Coconut Green Tea Scrub

Ingredients

1/4 cup toasted coconut - ground
2 tsp sweet matcha
2 green tea bags
3/4 cup coconut oil - liquid state
1-1/2 cups granulated sugar

Instructions

Grind coconut in blender or food processor until it resembles coarse crumbs - transfer to a small bowl
Add sugar, matcha & the contents of the 2 green tea bags - stir well until completely combined
Add coconut oil - mix until completely moistened.
Transfer to jars for gift giving or other airtight container.
Store at room temperature

Want More Homemade Beauty Ideas?

Coffee Infused Bath Salts

Huckleberry Honey Lip Scrub

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Peep Ice Cream Syrup

By Kleinworth & Co 17 Comments

I was so bad!!! Like- I have been so good about hitting the gym instead of caving to all the piles of Easter candy in my cabinet – until the other day. I have always had a deep affection for Peeps & I get super excited when it comes this time of year & they are out in stores. I don’t know…..it’s probably the fact that it’s a marshmallow covered in fun colored sugar. I mean- for a marshmallow lover like myself – it really doesn’t get better than that. I love them when they are super fresh & soft. I also really love them when they are a little stale because they have been sitting exposed in the Easter basket overnight. It’s all good for me & when they started making them for other holidays too- my world changed. But there is still something about the Easter originals that make me happy. So there they were in my cabinet, calling to me. So I gave in to the temptation & I made this ultra yummy Peep Ice Cream Syrup.

This prepares super quick- so by the time your partner in crime is done scooping the ice cream- it’s done.

I could eat this all day – everyday.

Print Recipe

Peep Ice Cream Syrup

Ingredients

12 peeps- any color you like I don't recommend mixing colors
1 tbsp water
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a small saucepan
Heat over medium until completely melted & smooth
Drizzle over ice cream - serve immediately

Want something to drizzle it on?

Chocolate Frozen Yogurt

Banana Cream Pie Frozen Yogurt

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Easter Krispie Pops

By Kleinworth & Co 4 Comments

With all the clearing out & organizing I have been doing lately, I was sorting through the massive box of cake pans that I shipped home from my mom’s when I was cleaning out her cake supplies. I was in such a fog then that I was just packing things into boxes & not really paying much attention to what was really in there. Then I came across this super cute flower pan that is used for making pops. I didn’t want to go through the long process of making cookies with it- since you can only make 4 at a time – but I really wanted to use it. Because I’m funny like that. Usually, I can have a whole bunch of recipes planned out but then pick up some sort of new gadget for the kitchen that doesn’t work with any of the things planned & I will throw all plans out the window just so I can use my new little thing. I know- but I can’t help it. So I decided on something quick & fun. Easter Krispie Pops! I added the cute little Easter colored candies to give them a little pop too.

Like all krispie treat recipes- there is nothing complicated about this. Just prepare & press in.

I picked up the little candies in the same section as Sixlets in the market.

But you could use any bright colored candies.

Print Recipe

Easter Krispie Pops

Ingredients

**Makes 4 Pops
2 tbsp butter
2 cups rice krispie cereal
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup Pastel Candy Pearls
4 8-Inch Cakepop Sticks

Instructions

Distribute the candy pearls between the 4 pop shapes in the pan - set aside
Add butter, marshmallows & vanilla to a large bowl
Heat in microwave 2-3 minutes - stirring after 2
Stir until smooth
Add krispies & stir until combined
With wet hands - divide krispie mixture into 4 equal parts
Press each part into the flower pan firmly- really pack in down in there
Carefully insert your pop stick about 2 inches deep into your treat
Refrigerate at least 1 hour to firm up before removing from pan & serving.

Want More Easy Treats?

Spring Flora Krispies

M&M Cookie Dough Bites

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Blue & Gold Easter Wreath

By Kleinworth & Co 6 Comments

Decorate your front door with this beautiful Blue & Gold Easter Wreath made with painted faux eggs & moss. So perfect to welcome spring!

I have to tell you- I usually change out my wreath on the front door at least once a month. But because I left at Thanksgiving and didn’t return until nearly the New Year, I never got the chance to decorate for Christmas.

When I came home from my mom’s I expected to see my Thanksgiving wreath still on the front door. But I found that the hubs was sweet enough to have pulled out a couple of the holiday decorations (including the wreath) and tried to make it feel like Christmas.

Table of Contents

Since I came home at the end of December- I enjoyed those decorations for just a couple of days & I packed it all away. I threw up some random wreath that I actually don’t even like, vowing that I was going to make some new ones.

Well- all the supplies I bought for a Valentine wreath & a St. Patty’s Day wreath are still sitting in my closet & that wreath I can’t stand was still on my front door when April came rolling on in. Go figure.

easter wreath

So I sent the hubs out with a list – paintable eggs & a few colors of spray paint. After a few hours, I finally have something new on my front door- this Blue & Gold Easter Wreath.

I’m thinking that if I start planning now for May, I might actually get one created before the month changes again.

easter egg wreath

I started with 4 dozen paintable eggs. They are white & actually look just like real eggs.

I spray painted half of them in brown & the other half in robin’s egg blue. Once dry, I hot glued them randomly in place along with some ribbon onto a grapevine wreath.

Then I used some reindeer moss to fill in the holes.

easter door decorations

Once complete I took some gold spray paint & sprayed a little into a little bowl of tin foil so I could get enough to dip into.

Then I dry brushed it on to the eggs – just a couple dabs for each one, not being too careful with placement. That’s it.

I’m sure the neighbors are thinking “geesh- it’s about time”. I can’t tell you just how good it feels to have that little thing off my shoulders & no longer nagging me.

I can sleep again. (yes things like this keep me up at night – what can I say?!)

easter wreaths to make

Here are some commonly asked questions

Can this be made with a different type of wreath form?

I would imagine that you could do it with another wreath form, such as a styrofoam form. I don’t think this would work well with a wire form as you need something to attach the eggs to.

Can this be made with another type of glue?

I would imagine that it is possible. But because it would take a long time for a traditional glue to dry before you could move on to another portion, it wouldn’t be as easy to do.

I also don’t know how sturdy it would be or how long it would hold.

Hot glue not only dries almost instantly, but it will hold for years – even with in-climate weather.

easter wreath diy

Products I love when making this Easter Wreath…

This Easter egg wreath is SUPER EASY and if you’re like me this time of year, then you maybe already have some of these items on hand OR maybe you have never made your own wreath before, & you might be a bit nervous – but you’re going to love it. I have made a list below of the things I absolutely can’t live without when it comes to making this wreath.

grapevine wreath form
faux craft eggs
PREPAINTED Craft Eggs (newly available after I made this project)
brown spray paint
blue spray paint
gold spray paint
paintbrushes
craft moss
ribbon
hot glue gun
hot glue sticks
non-damaging wreath hook

egg wreath

If you love this Easy Easter Wreath, you’re going to love these other Easter Ideas too. Please click each link below to find the post!

Traditional Deviled Eggs

Traditional Deviled Eggs are great anytime! Make this recipe for New Year's, Game Day, Easter brunch, Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner & WOW your guests.

Check out this recipe

Close-up of traditional deviled eggs, halved and filled with a smooth, creamy yolk mixture, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika, arranged neatly on a plate.

Easy Strawberry Cake Recipe

This Easy Strawberry Cake Recipe, made from scratch with fresh strawberry puree. No cake mix, no Jello in here! This is filled & topped with the most delicious strawberry buttercream frosting too.

Check out this recipe

One Hour Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls

Everything you love about carrot cake rolled up into a sweet & delicious cinnamon roll for breakfast.

Check out this recipe

Coconut Macaroons

Coconut Macaroons are the perfect spring treat. A twist on the classic macaroon recipe, this one is made without eggs. Definitely a great Easter dessert.

Check out this recipe

Coconut Macaroons are the perfect spring treat. A twist on the classic macaroon recipe, this one is made without eggs, which makes them thick & chewy. Everything I love about a good macaroon for sure. These are definitely a great Easter dessert for all you coconut lovers out there.

Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting & topped with OREO Carrot Cake Cookies are the perfect dessert recipe for all your spring celebrations.

Check out this recipe

How to make Carrot Cake Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Heavenly One Hour Dinner Rolls

Heavenly One Hour Dinner Rolls that are so light & fluffy. Delicious & buttery, they’re perfect for holidays but easy enough for every night of the week.

Check out this recipe

Coconut Cream Cake

Light & fluffy coconut cake topped with creamy whipped cream & homemade toasted coconut makes this Coconut Cream Cake enjoyable from the first bite to last.

Check out this recipe

Strawberry Macaron Recipe

This Strawberry Macaron Recipe with strawberry filling is perfect for Valentine’s Day, Easter, Mother’s Day, bridal & baby showers & so much more!

Check out this recipe

Slow Cooker Carrot Cake

Slow Cooker Carrot Cake is the perfect dessert recipe for spring. Just whisk the ingredients & let your crockpot do the rest. Just add cream cheese frosting.

Check out this recipe

Marshmallow Easter Bars

Marshmallow Easter Bars are an easy no-bake dessert recipe that takes just 4 ingredients. These are perfect for your holiday celebrations. Delicious!

Check out this recipe

easter wreath ideas

easter door wreath

If you love this Blue & Gold Easter Wreath as much as I do, please be sure to help me share on Facebook and Pinterest!

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Choosing Food Photography Props ~ Color Wheel Printable

By Kleinworth & Co 8 Comments

Staging your food photography images takes far more work than it truly looks like when everything comes out in the post. But that’s how it’s supposed to be. If you do too much – it can be quite obvious. There are also some that prefer a simple approach to their food shots- which can be quite beautiful. I sometimes go that route – depending on what the dish is. However- I typically like to set up my shot to look as “normal” & “true to real life” as possible. When doing this it’s good to have things set up with your subject that you would normally have with it when serving in real life. Things like napkins are almost always present in my house when eating anything. But the key here to making your food pop in your images is to use those things like plates & napkins compliment or contrast in color to give visual interest. I decided to create this Color Wheel Printable to help you choose what colors work best in your prop selection. Free Printable Checklist Templates

Download The key here is to choose props that are across the color wheel. Your primary colors will be red, blue & yellow. All other colors are made from a combination of these colors. Then your have your secondary colors – green, orange, purple. Then there are the variations in between. I typically choose directly across the color wheel – unless it’s red or green & it’s not Christmas time. Sometimes I abandon the idea of going across the wheel & will choose from a color family instead. The key here with the wheel is to find colors that pop against the colors you already have in your subject.

Like in this Blackberry Whiskey Sour– because the color of the drink is a red violet color I used the yellow of the lemon twist to really pop the drink & bring more visual interest.

If you look throughout my blog you will see more & more examples of either contrasting or complimenting colors between the dish I am showcasing & the items styled around it. Download & print the color wheel for future reference when going forward in your food images. Sometimes just seeing the colors together can give you enough inspiration to help you pick your props & really make your images great.

Want More Food Photography tips?

Food Photography Behind the Scenes

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Lemon Poppy Seed Donuts w/ Lemon Blueberry Glaze

By Kleinworth & Co 13 Comments

Boy – it’s sure been a while since I have made donuts. I was on such a kick there for a while. Then the temps cooled & I was back to using the oven & the donut maker found it’s way to the back of the cabinet. I decided to pull it out & make a real spring like batch of yumminess – Lemon Poppy Seed Donuts w/ Lemon Blueberry Glaze. Oh my goodness- they have just the right ratio of lemon & blueberry flavor. Then the poppy seeds- oh how I love baking with them in the spring. I’m also sharing this donut recipe over at SNAP! today – you can grab the glaze recipe here.

I’m swooning over the bright color of the glaze.

I’m definitely putting these on the Easter breakfast menu.

I love having something quick for breakfast on holidays. I will be making these the night before so that we have a little something to grab during all the morning activities. Who wants to start their Easter morning with a bunch of dishes? I know my morning will be too full for that.

Don’t you want to just grab one?

Print Recipe

Lemon Poppy Seed Donuts w/ Lemon Blueberry Glaze

Ingredients

Donuts

3 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 tsp baking powder
2 sticks butter- melted & slightly cooled
1-1/2 cup milk
2 eggs - lightly beaten
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp poppy seeds

For the Glaze

1-1/2 cups confectioners sugar
1/2 cup Lemon Blueberry Syrup

Instructions

Donuts

Preheat donut machine or preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In large bowl- combine flour, sugar & baking powder.- Whisk.
Whisk in eggs, then milk, then butter.
Whisk in lemon juice & poppy seeds.
Transfer to pastry bag & pipe into donut wells or scoop in to full size donut pan.
Cook 6 minutes for mini-donuts or 10-12 for full size in the oven.
Remove & cool on wire rack & repeat the cooking process for remaining batter.

Glaze

Combine ingredients in small bowl - whisk well until completely combined
*You can add a splash of water if needed to thin out.
Dip your donuts in glaze & set on wire rack to drip.
Once done glazing all your donuts- set in refrigerator to help firm your glaze

Want More Donut recipes?

Raspberry Chocolate Chip Donuts

Blueberry Pie Donuts

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Spring Garden Inspiration

By Kleinworth & Co 3 Comments

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Miracle-Gro for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Are you following me on Pinterest? Well- if you are, you have seen that I have been pinning a lot of Spring Garden Inspiration to my Garden Inspiration board. I'm in full garden planning mode with big dreams of planting all sorts of beautiful plants & trees in the coming months. I hope to not only have some great landscaping in the front & back yards but to also have quite an indoor garden going on too.

After years of living in the desert- I am so thrilled to be here in a place where things LIVE! I can enjoy greenery & fresh fruit & vegetables- grown on my own property. It's incredibly important to me that I know not only where my food comes from but what went in to growing it too. So we will be spending this spring & summer & probably many more after this working on getting our gardens (both indoor & out) producing food to feed our family.

Obviously – as pretty as this weed is – I hope to keep them out of my garden.

But I do hope to have lots of lavender around the yard both in the front & the back.

I plan on lots of bright flowers in a multitude of colors – because it makes me happy.

Not to mention I like to have an excuse to head out with the camera in hand & capture something pretty.

I also plan on many, many fruit trees. Peach, apple & pear are on the top of my list. Last year we visited one of our local farmer friends & were able to bring home boxes full of fruit grown just down the street. I can't even tell you just how happy that made me. Also on the planting plan – berries. I am truly looking forward to several blueberry, blackberry, raspberry bushes & probably an entire planter of huckleberry bushes – because that's what you do when you live in North Idaho. 🙂 It may be a couple years before they produce anything near enough for even one pie- but it's an investment into my future happiness. To me that's all I need.

This will mean many bags of Miracle-Gro in my future.

I want to give my plants, trees & bushes the best jump start I can – which means Miracle-Gro for me.

What are your garden plans this spring?

You can share your personal gardening stories at Gro Something Greater

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

&

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Toasted Coconut Brownie Torte

By Kleinworth & Co 20 Comments

Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night with an idea for a recipe & then you can’t get it out of your head until you make it? No? Okay- it’s just me then. This happened about 2 weeks ago – I woke at about 3 in the morning with the idea to make a brownie torte. It wasn’t until I made the Toasted Coconut Hot Fudge that I shared with you on Sunday that I finally had everything I needed to push me to finally make my masterpiece. I bring to you this Toasted Coconut Brownie Torte! It’s every bit as good as it looks. Oh! My! I love Yummy Bar Recipes!

Yep – all that wonderful hot fudge all dripping down. Mmmmmmmm. So much for the diet.

I used my round cookie cutter from Kizmos Flora collection. It’s about 1.25″ in diameter. If I had made more brownies I would have used a bigger one & made these ENORMOUS.

Print Recipe

Toasted Coconut Brownie Torte

Ingredients

Brownies

3/4 cup vegetable oil
1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 eggs
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup + 3 tbsp dutch process cocoa powder
1/4 tsp + 1/8 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp toasted coconut butter

Stack with whip cream

Top with

3 tbsp toasted coconut hot fudge

Instructions

Bake Brownies

Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Line 8x8 glass baking dish with parchment & lightly spritz with cooking spray
In large bowl- combine oil, sugar & vanilla - mix well with large spatula
Add eggs - mix well
Add coconut butter - mix until just combined
Add flour, cocoa, baking powder & salt - mix well until completely combined
Pour batter into prepared pan & spread evenly
Bake 25-35 minutes or until toothpick test is mostly clean
Cool completely on wire rack.
Once cool- it's time to assemble your torte.
Remove brownies from pan & use cookie cutter to cut your circles
Stack circles layering whip cream in-between each one - doing 3 layers
Top with hot fudge & additional sprinkle of toasted coconut
Serve immediately after assembling.

Want More Ideas for that Hot Fudge?

Frozen Brown Cow

Frozen Mocha S’mores Overload

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Lemon Blueberry Syrup

By Kleinworth & Co 7 Comments

My family loves blueberries. I suppose you could have probably figured that out with the amount of blueberry recipes I share here in this little space. Usually I’m good with just the blueberries – but this year I can’t seem to get enough of the classic combo of lemon & blueberries. I have been pairing them together over & over & loving every minute of it. I decided to revamp my classic blueberry syrup & make this Lemon Blueberry Syrup which I have been adding to just about everything around here.

You really can’t go wrong with this. Add it to your pancakes, waffles, ice cream- it’s all good. My kids love adding it to their morning oatmeal. I used it in something extra yummy that I will be sharing with you later this week. So be sure to come on back for that- you won’t want to miss it.

Print Recipe

5 from 1 vote

Lemon Blueberry Syrup

Ingredients

1-1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup lemon juice

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a small saucepan
Bring to a boil over high heat
Reduce heat & simmer approx 10 minutes
Remove from heat - carefully transfer to blender
Blend for about 30 seconds- make sure that mixture is smooth
Transfer to sterilized syrup bottle - store in refrigerator
*NOTE- please use caution when blending hot liquids.

Want More Blueberry Recipes?

Blueberry Pie Coffee Cake

Blueberry Swirl Pound Cake

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Toasted Coconut Hot Fudge

By Kleinworth & Co 6 Comments

It’s no secret- when it comes to treats- for me MORE is MORE. If I can add an extra little something to make it even more over the top- I will. So it is no surprise that I like to keep homemade hot fudge in the house. I will put it on top of everything I can. I shared with you all earlier this week just how much I LOVE coconut. I have been sharing coconut recipes all week- including How to Toast Coconut. I decided to take the Toasted Coconut Butter I made & make this Toasted Coconut Hot Fudge. It really does take hot fudge to a whole new level- AND adds just another coconut flavored recipe to make my eyes roll to the back of my head. I can’t get enough. Do you see a pattern here? I told you I am crazy for coconut.

Swooning- seriously I could eat it out of the jar. I don’t even care.

I love that it’s so simple- I can have it ready before the hubs is even done scooping the ice cream.

Print Recipe

Toasted Coconut Hot Fudge

Ingredients

1/2 cup 1 stick unsalted butter
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
2 tbsp toasted coconut butter

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in small saucepan - cook over medium heat
Stir constantly, do not bring to a boil- cook until butter is melted & sauce is smooth
Remove from heat
Transfer to sterilized jar or other airtight container
Store in refrigerator
Reheat as needed

Want More Toppings?

Mocha Dulce de Leche

Chocolate Chip Cookie- Cookie Butter

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

White Washed Textures ~ Life n’ Reflection

By Kleinworth & Co 13 Comments

Back when I started this little ol’ blog I used to only post photography related content. That meant that I posted about family & images of my family quite often. After having images of my children stolen & used by someone to pass off as her own children I slowly changed my focus here. Now I rarely pick up the camera for personal use but once in a while I get a moment to capture my family in our everyday lives. Earlier this week we had some beautiful sunshine that I just had to take advantage of. I have yet to take birthday images of my older daughter- even though her birthday was back in December. So I was feeling that she would be my perfect subject for snapping a few images. While these are in no way a replacement for a full birthday photoshoot that I still need to do with not only her but also her brother for his birthday back in Feb – at least I found a few moments to be with my camera & not be working.

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Toasted Coconut Butter

By Kleinworth & Co 21 Comments

Remember a couple days ago when I shared with you about my deep love for coconut. Yeah – I think it’s sort of taken over my kitchen. I can’t stop myself. I just keep buying more so I can make more goodies. I sure wish I could pinpoint what exactly it is about it that makes me swoon. All I know is I think I may start depleting the world’s supply. Do you think I could get a palm tree to grow in North Idaho? Suppose I would have had better luck in Nevada – only it wasn’t moist enough there. Hmmmmm – maybe this is a sign I am in desperate need of a trip to a tropical location. In the meantime I’m just going to spread this Toasted Coconut Butter I made on everything I can.

It smells INCREDIBLE!!!!!

I’m so looking forward to using this in so many recipes to come.

Print Recipe

Toasted Coconut Butter

Ingredients

1 cup Toasted Coconut
3-4 tbsp coconut oil - in it's liquid form
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Add your toasted coconut to your food processor or blender. (I found with this volume I was using I had better luck with my blender just because it was a tighter space for the blades to really work well)
Pulse the coconut - it will become powdery & then start to stick to itself & then become smooth
When it gets to this sticky point - add in your coconut oil & keep blending
Add vanilla & pulse 3-4 times to mix
Store in a jar - either at room temperature or in the fridge

You can make this with standard sweetened or unsweetened coconut- shredded or flakes.

To make this toasted version- start here…

How to toast coconut.

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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How to Toast Coconut

By Kleinworth & Co 7 Comments

There is something you may or may not know about me. I am a 100% coconut FREAK!! When I say freak – I mean, everything I can pick that has a variety of scents- I will ALWAYS choose coconut (or something with hints of coconut tones) Without question – my all time favorite scent, flavor- everything. If I can find a way to add it – I will. I don’t know what it is. Maybe the scent reminds me of home. Maybe it just reminds me of goodies. I really can’t tell you- but I am completely OBSESSED. So much so that I spent $70 at Bath & Body Works the other weekend on their new Oahu scented line. Bought it ALL & smother myself in it several times a day. I can’t get enough. Soooooo just be warned that now that it’s Spring – I will be sharing many recipes with coconut. (insert huge happy- teethy grin here) Now- with most coconut recipes- the toasted version is always better. So I thought I would start by sharing How to Toast Coconut so we have a good reference point going forward.

Look at it – it smells AH-MAZ-ING!!!!!!! I can’t even tell you just how much.

The kids just kept commenting on how good the house smelled while I was making it.

Print Recipe

How to Toast Coconut

Ingredients

1- 16 oz bag sweetened Coconut
1 tbsp coconut oil optional

Instructions

In a large skillet - add coconut. You don't have to use the coconut oil- it just adds a little more crisp. However the coconut will release some oils when it heats so it's your choice.
Spread coconut across the bottom of the pan & heat over medium - stirring every 30 seconds or so to maintain even browning. Be careful & don't get distracted - it will burn quickly if you forget to stir
Keep stirring & browning until it reaches the desired caramel color that you desire. Most pieces should be light brown in color.
Some people like it lighter - I prefer it toastier.
Remove from heat & allow to cool completely.
Can store up to several months in airtight container at room temperature.

It was all I could do to save some for recipes- I wanted to eat it all.

Want More Spring Recipes?

Monkey Muffins

Egg Salad Sliders

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Layered Strawberry Shortcake

By Kleinworth & Co 14 Comments

Okay – I know I am not the first person to make strawberry shortcake. It’s pretty easy & I know this is nothing revolutionary. However- sometimes it’s all about the presentation. We picked up several containers of strawberries & then it popped in my head- make a jumbo Layered Strawberry Shortcake. Angel food cake is on the top of my favorites list. I think it’s because I have never made one from scratch before. It’s on my bucket list- maybe this summer. Stay tuned to see if I actually make an attempt sometime soon. So anyhow- because I have never made my own – I picked up one from the bakery instead. So that made this little treat even easier to throw together in no time. I love the layers of whip cream & strawberries popping out between the golden color of the cake. I’m very visual when it comes to my food- which is why this particular way to make strawberry shortcake grabs my attention.

So simple to make- I even went with a store bought angel food cake for this one.

Print Recipe

Layered Strawberry Shortcake

Ingredients

1- 2 pound container fresh strawberries - washed hulled & sliced
1 - large tub whip topping- partially thawed
1 - ready-made angel food cake

Instructions

Set your whip topping on the counter to thaw while you prepare your strawberries
Prepare strawberries - set aside to dry a bit before assembling your cake
Place your cake on serving plate & slice in 3 even layers
Remove top 2 layers - set aside
Spread spoonfuls of whip topping on bottom layer- top with slices of strawberries
Add second & third layers & repeat with whip topping & strawberries for each.
Place in freezer to keep it from melting & sliding apart until you are ready to serve
OR serve immediately

I told you it was oh so simple.

Want More Easy Cake Ideas?

Grasshopper Ice Cream Cake

Red Velvet Blackberry Crash Cake

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

Behind the Scenes {Blogger Country}

By Kleinworth & Co 21 Comments

Today I’m starting something new (for me anyway). Yesterday I participated in a blogger series created by my friend Diana – from The Girl Creative called Blogger Country. I’m thrilled to be a part of it & to share with you all a glimpse into the “behind the scenes” of Kleinworth & Co. I love this idea because most don’t realize is the time & commitment it takes to blog professionally.

I was so inspired by it that I am starting my own series here. A couple times a month I will share with you all my pull back shots & show you how I created the images you see in my space.

So if you want to see how I create images like the ones you see above- stay tuned. I will be sharing my secrets.

I will try to do these posts at least 2 times a month – so you can start getting a better idea of different situations or foods & how I tackle the challenges of that.

For this shot here. You see texture of the old board. I chose that because it reminds me of a picnic table- which is where I feel I would most enjoy this Blueberry Lemon Green Tea. Outside soaking up the sun. If it wasn’t so cold outside still- I would have set up on the porch & had some green grass in the background instead. But this was a very gloomy day & our grass isn’t green yet.

Key here – white background to keep things light & to reflect some light on the back shadows.

Props- brighter pops of yellow in the fresh lemons. I also chose to add blueberries to this recipe BECAUSE blue photographs well with yellow. (think complimenting/contrasting colors) Plus this time of year lemons & blueberries are a great combo that people love.

It is the thing you will hear the most when talking about light for food photography – natural light is ideal.

This is how I set up this shot . We have some etched glass windows that flank the front door. So I set this up in the entry way to harness this natural light that comes in to this space. Because it’s inside & through semi-opaque glass – it’s more filtered. It’s rare that I get harsh light in this space. “Open shade” is what we are going for. This set up- not super glamourous – TV tray, boards & reflector (there is a bar stool behind the reflector to hold it up) to put together the shot you see for the final image.

This gives you a better idea of my frame for the final shot. You can see I have multiple boards going- just because I was doing multiple things at that time. I like to stand to the right of this shot & crouch down to get a little backlight. Especially with semi-transparent drinks – backlight really makes them glow & showcases their colors.

To see ALL my behind the scenes of where I blog & my everyday blogging life – visit The Girl Creative & check out my post.

If you have more questions about this shot or set up- leave me a comment.

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Kit Kat Crunch Bars

By Kleinworth & Co 9 Comments

I love Kit Kat bars & I love Crunch Bars. When the hubs runs into a convenience store when we are traveling- those are the things I tend to gravitate towards. Those are the chocolate bars that I will grab. It’s been a while since we were on a road trip. I’m not counting the one in December to So Cal – we were not traveling for pleasure & I was not snacking during that one. So I think the last trip was when we moved here. Which means I have been craving those candy bars for a long while. I know that I could pick them up any time at the market – it’s just sort of different that way. So I decided to put them together & whip up these incredibly easy Kit Kat Crunch Bars to satisfy the craving.

Everything you love about Crunch Bars – but Bigger & topped with Kit Kat!! You can’t go wrong.

Even the hubs was sayin’ “oh -yeah- those are good” Umm- YEAH! That’s why I love them.

I will still pick up my travel snacks on trips – but now I can make these between travels.

Print Recipe

Kit Kat Crunch Bars

Ingredients

3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1-1/2 cups rice krispie cereal
9 mini Kit Kat bars- chopped

Instructions

Line 9x9 pan with parchment paper - lightly spritz with cooking spray - set aside
In medium sized glass bowl heat your chocolate chips in 30 second intervals, stirring in-between until completely melted & smooth.
Once melted- add in your rice krispie cereal & stir to completely coat
Transfer to prepared dish & smooth out
Top with chopped Kit Kat pieces
Refrigerate 2 hours to set
Allow to come close to room temperature before cutting
Store in airtight container at room temperature & use within 48 hours

Want More Easy No Bake Recipes?

Thin Mint Meets Oreo

Frozen Brown Cow

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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Office Organizer Board

By Kleinworth & Co 5 Comments

This project post is a part of a paid marketing campaign with Snap. Although this post is sponsored the project idea and all opinions expressed are my own.

I have mentioned to you all before that I am slowly working on making some adjustments around here to revamp my office space. After downsizing from our last place when we made this relocation- I have not been as organized as I would like or have been in the past. It’s driving me nutty. So I have been doing little things here & there to prepare for my re-vamped office/studio space we are working on. I will have a much larger space & the availability to give everything it’s own home. One thing that is a must for me is ways to keep my reminders where I can see them – but without cluttering up my desk. I currently have a couple different wall organizers that I would be lost with out. But I find that sometimes I need something a bit more decorative for things like pictures. Now that I will have my own space again – instead of just a corner of a room, I will be able to put pretty things out & still have wall space for the functional stuff too. I’m excited about this because I really have only had the room for only what absolutely needed to be out. Now I can have things that make my space mentally peaceful & happy too. So I decided to create this new Office Organizer Board that will give a nice pop of color on the wall (in one of my favorite colors) & give me a space to display photos in a more unique way.

I can’t wait to hang this in my new space!

I started with this Amy Tangerine Plus One paper craft collection.

Bundles include: a basic kit, an embroidery kit, an embellishment kit and a stamping kit.

The (currently sold out) Plus One Project Life Mini Kit will also be available at a discounted rate.

The collection will be available in five discounted bundles starting at just under $20 – It will be available for sale on HSN, March 24.

To make – I started with 1 canvas & some Mod Podge.

I coated the entire canvas with the Mod Podge, then I adhered my 2 matching scrapbook papers to the canvas. Then I trimmed the excess.

There are 2 of each print in the bundle of scrapbook paper in this set. There are also several coordinating patterns in various themes. While there were several in the turquoise shade- I chose this one because it reminded me of watercolor. I originally had this project in mind using paint – so having what already looked like what I had in mind just helped me put the project together that much faster.

Next I added some Mod Podge Sheer Color in blue over the top to seal down everything. I made sure to add extra to the white edges & then I added a little more to the whole thing & used a dry brush to give more texture to the finish to keep it looking like the color was painted on.

Once dry- I added this thin matching tape over the edges & over that part where the papers overlapped.

On the back side of the canvas I added finishing nails for my anchor points – 3 on each of the 4 sides.

Then I took the embroidery floss, tied the end to one nail & then just started stringing from one end to the other in a random pattern – using the nails to anchor & then weave to the next point. I used a coordinating turquoise color & then a silver accent color for this. Once both colors were wrapped to my satisfaction- I tied them tightly, trimmed the excess & my board was now ready to be used.

I picked the coordinating clothespins & then some cute pops of yellow & chartreuse to give more visual interest.

There you go – ready for photos or anything else I want to display.

Love this project. I may make more on even larger canvas for each of the kid’s rooms.

The Plus One collection was the top selling signature line released in winter 2014. It is sold out in most stores and online.

Head over & pick your’s up while it’s available.

What would you create with yours??

To see where I am linking today- visit HERE

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