For more ideas visit page 2.

 

WREATH COOKIES
Ingredients:
Round Butter cookies with hole in the middle
White frosting
Green food coloring
Cinnamon candies, M&M's or pieces of gum drops

Directions: Mix food coloring with frosting spread on cookie
Place decorations on cookies (Image by KidActivities.net)

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BAGEL WREATHS
Ingredients:

Bagels
Cream cheese -tinted green
Dried cranberries or dried cherries

Spread half a bagel with green cream cheese to look like the base of a wreath. Decorate the wreath with dried fruit.
(Nice for your program but also nice at home for Christmas brunch!)

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CHEERIOS CHRISTMAS TREE

Ingredients:
6 cups Honey Nut Cheerios cereal
6 tablespoons butter or margarine
4 1/2cups miniature marshmallows
Green food color
Red cinnamon candies or sliced gumdrops

1. Line a cookie sheet with waxed paper
 
2. Pour the cereal into a 4-quart bowl. Set the bowl aside.
 
3. Place the butter and marshmallows in a 3-quart saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
 
4. Stir in the food color until the mixture is evenly colored.
 
5. Pour the marshmallow mixture over the cereal and stir until the cereal is evenly coated.
 
6. Lightly spray your hands with cooking spray. For each tree, shape about 1/4 cup of the cereal mixture into a Christmas tree shape on the cookie sheet.
 
7. Press the candies into the trees to look like ornaments.

8. Refrigerate until firm, about 1 hour. Store the trees in a loosely covered container. (Photo courtesty of mommyblogspot)

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HOT APPLE DIP   (Great for Winter Holidays!) From Apple Snacking Category
2 cups or 16 servings
Ingredients:
1 tub (8 oz.)Philadelphia cream cheese
2 Tbsp.  brown sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
1  apple, chopped and divided in half
1/4 cup KRAFT Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 Tbsp.  finely chopped Pecan Pieces
Wheat Thin Original Crackers or Cinnamon snack crackers

1. Heat oven to 375°F.
2. Mix cream cheese, sugar and cinnamon or spice in medium bowl until well blended. Stir in half of the apples.
3. Spread into pie plate or small casserole dish. Top with remaining apples, cheddar cheese and nuts.
4. Bake 10 to 12 min. or until heated through.
    Serve with crackers.

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'SANTA FACE' NUTTER BUTTER COOKIES (See 'Reindeer Nutter Butter' at page bottom)

Ingredients for one cookie: 
Nutter Butter Cookies, White Frosting/Icing, Red Sprinkles,  Coconut, 2 Chocolate Chips, 1 Red Hot
 
1. Put frosting on each end of the cookie. 
2. On one end dip the iced cookie into coconut to make Santa's beard. 
3.On the other end of the iced cookie, sprinkle the red sprinkles on for the hat.
4. Place the chips on with icing for the eyes and the red hot for the nose

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REINDEER CHOW
FOR SANTA TO GIVE TO THE REINDEER ON CHRISTMAS EVE... (But of course 'Santa' eats it himself!)
Recipe calls for handfuls-which would be the handful size of a child--be sure to give children plastic gloves if this is the method you will use--or measure what an actual child's handful is and use that amount in a measuring cup. (This activity is for a child care center-but it can be made at home minus the note.)

1 handful Frosted Shredded Wheat (It's hay frosted with the snow of the North Pole)
1 handful pretzel sticks (Tender twigs)
1 handful of raisins (Dried berries)
1 handful of red candy such as M&M's (Fresh berries)
The original recipe call for 1 baby carrot (It's up to you. I don't know if I'd want to mix it in the baggies with the above...)  Be sure to have extra ingredients for kids to munch on while making!

Place ingredients in a zip lock baggie. Shake up and enclose a note that says...

Even Santa's Reindeer need a snack now and then, especially on Christmas Eve, please leave me out with the cookies and milk for Santa!

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SANTA CUPCAKES

Start with 2 cups (or one 16-ounce can) vanilla frosting. Place 2/3 cup in a bowl; tint with red food coloring. Frost part of the cupcake top with white frosting for the face and the other part with red frosting for the hat. If desired, pipe white frosting to create the fur band of the hat. Press a miniature marshmallow on one side of the hat for pom-pom.

Add chocolate chips for the eyes and a red-hot candy for the nose. Gently press flaked coconut below the nose for the bear

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SUGAR CONE CHRISTMAS TREES

Ingredients: Sugar cones, Green frosting, small candies, plastic knives

Give each child a sugar cone and plastic knife. Have the children frost their 'tree base'. You can get green frosting by mixing food coloring with white frosting.
After the tree is frosted, decorate with small candies. Keep, make a scene with the trees, or eat!

Note: Raven and Laney (both age 12) decided to mix it up a bit-by adding spice drops and shredded coconut. 

Also made by 'R and L' is the  above tray of 'mixed winter goodies'.  Directions for each treat are found on this page... as well as 'Winter Snack pages' of  Snowmen and Reindeer. (Images by KidActivities.net)

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GIFT WRAPPED SNACKS (For a festive holiday touch)

1. In a large bowl, mix together such foods as dry cereal pieces, sunflower seeds, M & M's, raisins, nuts, and mini marshmallows.
2. For each child put a serving of the snack mix in the center of a holiday napkin.
3. Bring the sides of the napkin together and tie with ribbon.

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SANDWICH YULE LOG... Looking for a fun but substantial snack? Try this...good for all ages!

1. Remove the crust from a slice of bread--any kind your kids like...
2. Flatten the bread with a rolling pin and spread the bread slice with your children's favorite filling
3. Roll into a log--eat!

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APPLE CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS

Ingredients:
Apples, Marshmallows, Pretzels

Cut and apple in half---into as many slices as you want for your ornament. 
Use halved marshmallows and anything else you'd like) in between the slices.
Break a piece off of a pretzel for the hanger. (Stretch a marshmallow to cover the base of the pretzel piece and 'glue' it to the top of the apple.) Image source littlenummies

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JOLLY S'MORES

Ingredients for one: 2 graham crackers, 1 Tablespoon peanut butter, 1 Tablespoon marshmallow creme, 1/2 chocolate bar

Spread peanut butter with knife on 1 graham cracker square. Top the peanut butter with the chocolate bar. Spread the marshmallow creme on the remaining graham cracker square; place the other cracker--marshmallow side down-- on the chocolate bar.

To make with your children...you may also be interested in the many no-bake cookie and bar recipes in the NO-BAKE CATEGORY...

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TOFFEE CRUNCH GRAHAMS 

Ingredients: 12 whole graham crackers (about 5" x 2.5 "), 1.5 cups butter  (3 sticks) use only butter-no substitutes, 1 cup packaged brown sugar, 2 cups sliced almonds

Line a 13" x 1" baking pan with heavy-duty tin foil. Place graham crackers in the pan. (They fit perfectly!

 In a saucepan, combine butter and brown sugar. Bring to a boil--stirring constantly. Carefully pour mixture over the graham crackers.  Sprinkle on the sliced almonds.  Bake at 400 for 6 to 8 minutes. Cool in pan for 4 minutes. Cut each cracker into four sections; transfer to wire racks to cool completely. (Image of candy-cooling on the rack-by KidActivities.net)

This recipe seemed so easy that I had to try it! IT IS EASY...and now sitting all wrapped in my freezer and waiting for the Holidays! Don't let the brown sugar and butter mixture scare you as you stir it in the pot. It comes together wonderfully as it begins to boil. Really nice for the Holidays! Barb

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PEANUTBUTTER AND COCONUT SNOWFLAKES
Ingredients:
Peanut butter, hexagon shaped crackers,  coconut

Spread peanut butter on the crackers.
Sprinkle coconut over them...

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HOLIDAY FRUIT CANDLE

Place a pineapple ring on each child's plate. Cut bananas in half and let each child peel his banana and place standing up in pineapple ring. Give each child a maraschino cherry and a toothpick to put on top of banana. You can put a raisin on top too. Now everyone has a Christmas candle.

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 NO COOK PUMPKIN PIE (Individual Servings)

Give each child a cup.
Into their cup put a big scoop of canned pumpkin, marshmallow creme, cool whip, and pumpkin pie spices.
Have children mix and then spread on graham crackers and eat.

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NO BAKE PUMPKIN PIE

Individual recipe:
Small custard-sized ready to eat--pie crusts
2 tablespoons canned pumpkin
1 tablespoon marshmallow creme
1 tablespoon prepared whipped topping
Sprinkle of cinnamon

Mix all ingredients together and pour into the crust. The recipe is then ready to eat; it may be refrigerated or frozen.

Get other ideas in the PUMPKIN SNACKS CATEGORY!

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MICROWAVE FUDGE #1

1 pound powdered sugar
1/2 cup cocoa
1/4 cup milk
1/4 pound margarine (or butter)
1 Tbsp. vanilla
1/2 cup chopped nuts

Blend powdered sugar and cocoa in mixing bowl then add milk and butter, cook in Microwave Oven for 2 minutes. ( do not mix these ingredients, merely place in the bowl)
Remove bowl from microwave and stir  to mix ingredients.
Add vanilla and nuts and stir until blended.
Pour in greased container and place in freezer for 20 minutes or refrigerator for 1 hour.
Cut and serve. Yield: 60 pieces.

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MINUTE MICROWAVE FUDGE #2
From the kitchen of Erica Wilson on Mrs. Clauses' website

 Ingredients:
1 pound of powdered sugar
1/2 cup cocoa
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup milk
1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 pound butter/margarine
1 cup chopped nuts

• Mix all dry ingredients together.
• Put in a 8"x8" inch microwave safe pan (important to use this size pan).
• Add milk and vanilla extract.
• Place chunk of butter/margarine in center ( leave butter as whole do not chop up).
• Microwave on high for 2 minutes until bottom of dish feels warm.
• Stir vigorously and blend in chopped nuts.
• Put in mold or whatever and chill for 1 hour.
*Use real butter for best results.

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NO BAKE PEANUTTY CLUSTERS

A super-easy sweet treat!
Makes: About 3 dozen goodies

1 bag (about 12 oz) semisweet chocolate, milk chocolate or butterscotch chips (2 cups)
2 cups chow mein noodles or any ready-to-eat cereal
1 cup peanuts
 
1. In large microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips uncovered on High 1 minute.
Stir after 30 seconds- until softened. Keep stirring until smooth. If not completely softened, continue microwaving 15 seconds at a time, stirring after each microwave time, until smooth.
 
2. Stir noodles and peanuts into chocolate until well coated.

3.Drop by teaspoonfuls onto waxed paper. Refrigerate about 1 hour or until firm. Store covered in refrigerator.

For other EASY CANDY RECIPES...click here!  Many are wonderful for the Holidays!

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FOR HOLIDAY SNACKS...Don't forget  fun and easy...

• Cookie-cutter sandwiches of Holiday shapes 

• Star shaped cheese and Holiday crackers

• Red and Green Christmas Chips and Salsa

• Red and Green Apples

• "Little Debbie" Tree shaped individual snack cakes 

• Red and Green Grapes

• Tomato Soup with Green Goldfish Crackers

• Ice Cream with Strawberry Syrup and Green Sprinkles

• Decorated cupcakes

• Pepperoni and Green Olive Pizza (Christmas Colors)

• Rice Crispy Treat Present: Take a treat and tie with Licorice String

• Purchased or Homemade Christmas cookies

• Hot Cocoa/Chocolate (Check out all the fun recipes!)

• Peppermint ice cream

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If your looking for GOODIES THAT MAKE GREAT GIFTS click here!  You'll find such things as Tea mix, Cocoa Mixes, Gourmet Apples, Colored Sugar, Tea Stirrers and Chocolate Covered Spoons!

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REINDEER CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZEL RODS (Pretzel rods with antlers)

Ingredients:
4 ounces chocolate vanilla or butterscotch-flavored almond bark--chopped
12 large pretzel twists
12 pretzel rods
24 miniature semisweet chocolate chips
12 red candy-coated chocolate candies
1 roll Betty Crocker Fruit by the Foot
Cherry or other flavor chewy fruit snack rolls
12 miniature green M & M's

 1. Place candy coating (Almond Bark) in 1-cup microwavable measuring cup. Microwave uncovered on High 30 to 60 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds, until melted.
 
2. Dip pretzel twists into melted candy coating. Place on waxed paper. Let stand until coating is set.
 
3. If necessary, re-warm coating. Dip top 2 inches of pretzel rod into melted candy coating; attach pretzel rod to bottom of pretzel twist. Place on waxed paper.
 
4. To make reindeer...
Press on chocolate chips for eyes and red M & M for nose-- using melted candy coating.

• Cut scarf from fruit roll; attach to reindeer using candy coating.
• Press on green M & M for button using candy coating. Place on waxed paper. Let stand until coating is set.
• Store coated pretzel rods loosely covered at room temperature no longer than 2 weeks. Really cute!

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HUGS AND KISSES HOLIDAY PRETZELS

Ingredients: checkerboard, windowpane, square, or round shaped pretzels
M&Ms plain chocolate candies (Use red and green for the Christmas Holiday Season)
Hershey's Hugs chocolates 
Hershey's chocolate kisses (The amoubt of each depends on how many you are making) 

M& M PURCHASE TIP...

When the Christmas Holidays are over--buy all the red and green  M&M candies you can. Often they are on sale at 50-75% off and you can use the red for Valentine's Day and save the green for St. Patrick's Day!

#2 PURCHASE TIP: Be sure to buy lots of RITZ SNOWFLAKE CRACKERS during the winter Holidays...You'll then have them to pull out for dips and spreads for other Winter Food Fun! (They're only in stores for the Holidays)

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FROM OUR REINDEER THEME COME THESE GOODIES!

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REINDEER FACE SANDWICH (1 slice bread)
Peanut butter
4 mini pretzels
4 raisins or m&m's
2 mini marshmallows
Maraschino cherries or red-hot cinnamon candies
Plates and knife

 

1. Cut bread in half from corner to corner, making two equal triangles.
2. Spread peanut butter over bread.
3. Decorate as follows:

Place it in front of you, with the point facing you and the long side of triangle facing away from you. Place one mini pretzel on each upper corner for the antlers; two raisins in the center of each slice (the eyes) and one mini marshmallow for the nose...if you are making Rudolf, use a maraschino cherry or cinnamon candy -- on the tip of each short point nearest you for the nose). You now have two reindeer faces...

REINDEER SANDWICHES in general...
Just put  variety of bread slices, cheese, meat or peanut butter. Add and a good selection of veggies and fruit...Raisins, carrot strips, celery, olives, slices of red pepper,etc. This sample idea  from hamptonroads

 

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REINDEER NUTTER BUTTER COOKIE

Ingredients: Nutter Butter Cookies, Peanut Butter, Raisins, Small Pretzel Twists, Red M & M Candies

Directions:
1. Place a small amount of peanut butter on the top of a Nutter Butter cookie.
2. Put a small pretzel twist on the peanut butter, letting it stick beyond the cookie for antlers.
3. Put two more dots of peanut butter and add raisins for eyes.
4. Finally put a dot of peanut butter on the bottom part of the cookie and add a red M&M for a nose

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REINDEER POOP (These are NO-BAKE COOKIES)...Enjoy with the kids... or  give out for gifts!  Put some in a zip-lock baggie and attach one of the  "Reindeer Poop" poems from the "Reindeer Theme" page.

Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter
2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons cocoa
1/2 cup peanut butter
3 cups oatmeal -- not instant
1/2 cup chopped nuts -- optional

1. In a large saucepan, mix butter, sugar, milk and cocoa together.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring constantly. Boil for 1 minute.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining ingredients.
4. Drop by the teaspoon-full onto wax paper and allow to harden.
5. They will set up in approximately 30-60 minutes.
6. This will keep for several days without refrigerating, up to 2 weeks refrigerated and 2-3 months frozen. Make 72...

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REINDEER CUPCAKES

Ingredients:
24 large pretzel twists,
24 miniature marshmallows or M&M's for eyes
24 red cinnamon candies for nose 
Optional: 24 small red gumdrops for mouth 
Make 24 cupcakes (or double or triple batch as box directs)
Can also purchase plain frosted cupcakes.   

1. Frost cupcakes with frosting. (Chocolate would most likely resemble deer)
2. For each cupcake, cut pretzel twist in half; arrange it on cupcake for reindeer antlers.
3. Cut miniature marshmallow in half; arrange on cupcake for eyes. 4. Center a gumdrop below marshmallow halves for nose.
5. Optional: Place red cinnamon candy below gumdrop for mouth. Store loosely covered.

Also check out these other decorating ideas...Reindeer with straight 'pretzel antlers' courtesy of ziggityzoom  and reindeer with 'candy cane antlers' from carpercupcakes

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 REINDEER CHOW... MAKE 'PUPPY CHOW' AND CALL IT 'REINDEER CHOW'! 

1 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup (1 stick) margarine
12 ounces chocolate chips
1 large box Crispix
2 to 2 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
 
1. Melt peanut butter, margarine and chocolate chips. ( I melt it in the microwave-checking frequently)
2. Pour mixture over large box Crispix; coat well.
3. In a paper bag put 2 1/2 cups confectioner sugar.
4. Add coated cereal. Shake well and pour onto wax paper.

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 MARSHMALLOW REINDEER...A snack and craft in one!
Ingredients:
Large Marshmallows and a dab of white frosting to hold on eyes and nose 
Stick Pretzels
Red Licorice strings (optional) 
Gummy candies, mini-chocolate chips or mini M&M's for eyes/tail

1. Assemble Reindeer bodies by sliding a pretzel stick through two marshmallows, one from either end.
2. Use 4 whole pretzel sticks for legs and a half of a pretzel stick for each antler.
3. Fold a 1 inch piece of licorice string in half and insert into face of reindeer for a red nose. 
4. Attach head with half of a pretzel stick and then tie a piece of red licorice around neck for decoration. (Sample and image by KidActivities.net)

NOTE: These should be eaten rather quickly. As our two 12 year old  crafty cooks learned-- the reindeer have a mind of their own and want to sit or lean after a bit...

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 This is page 1-Visit page 2 for more Christmas Snack ideas!

 FOR OTHER WINTER HOLIDAY & GOOD ALL-WINTER TIME SNACKS visit...

• HOT COCOA RECIPES CATEGORY...Yummy! Be sure to try the easy 'NUTELLA HOT CHOCOLATE' idea!
• SNOWMAN THEMED SNACKS  
• PRETZEL RECIPES OF ALL TYPES  
• EASY CANDY RECIPES
• CANDY CANES & What You Can Do With Them
• LOTS OF SNACK MIX RECIPES
• Be sure to visit the WINTER THEMED FOOD PAGE.  Goodies that would also be great for this Holiday Season!
• REINDEER THEME
• SNOWFLAKE THEME 

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Page 2~back to page 1

CHRISTMAS TREE SANDWICH

Ingredients:
2 slices white bread
Celery stick
Yellow pepper
Veggies for ornaments
Sandwich filling
Cheese for snow

1. Trim crusts from bread, then cut out an elongated triangle for the tree. 
2. Fill with sandwich filling of your choice. 
3. Make a free hand star from a slice of yellow pepper or cheese. 
4. Cut a tree trunk from celery. 
5. Arrange on plate. 
6. Make circle ornaments from carrots, red pepper etc. or use slices of red and green apple to make the ornaments.
7. Using a large straw, cut circles for snow out of a slice of cheese.

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THREE HOLIDAY SNACK MIXES...

CHEX VANILLA CHUNKS
Snack mix with chocolate, peanuts, marshmallows and pretzels. Make it in minutes! .
Makes:16 cups snack

Ingredients:
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (6 oz),
3 cups Corn Chex cereal
3 cups Rice Chex cereal
3 cups Wheat Chex cerea,
2 cups salted dry-roasted peanuts,
2 cups small pretzel twists, 2 cups miniature marshmallows,
1 package (20 oz) vanilla-flavored candy coating (almond bark)

1. Place chocolate chips in freezer to chill. In large bowl, mix cereals, peanuts, pretzels and marshmallows; set aside.
 
2. In large microwavable bowl, microwave candy coating uncovered on High 1 minute 30 seconds; stir, breaking up large chunks. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until coating can be stirred smooth.
 
3. Gently and quickly fold cereal mixture into coating with rubber spatula, stirring gently until evenly coated.

Stir in chilled chocolate chips. Spread on waxed paper; cool completely, about 30 minutes. Break into chunks. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.
Betty Crocker Recipe

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WHITE CHOCOLATE HOLIDAY MIX

1 - 10 oz package miniature pretzels 
5 cups Cheerios
5 cups corn Chex
2 cups salted peanuts
1 lb pkg Red and Green M&Ms
2 - 12 oz pkgs. vanilla chips or 24 oz. almond bark
3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Place the first five ingredients in a large bowl.
Microwave the chips/almond bark and the vegetable oil until melted.
Stir the mixture until creamy and smooth. Pour over the dry ingredients and mix well.
Spread on wax paper covered counter. Cool and break apart.
Store in a sealed container.

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CHRISTMAS SNACK MIX
32 Servings

Ingredients
1 (16 ounce) jar dry roasted peanuts
2 (14 ounce) packages red and green candy-coated chocolate (M&M's)
1 (14 ounce) package chocolate covered peanuts
1 (7 ounce) jar wheat nuts

1. Mix together the peanuts, red and green candy-coated chocolate pieces, red and green candy-coated chocolate covered peanuts, chocolate covered peanuts and wheat germ nut snacks.
2. Serve in a large bowl or place in decorative glass jars and give as gifts.

Check out the great 'SNACK MIX CATEGORY' for other ideas!

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POPCORN WREATHS

 

Ingredients:
1/2 cups popped popcorn
2 cups marshmallows
2 Tbsp. milk
5 Tbsp. Lime flavored jello
1 cup red and green fruit flavored candies
 
1. Put popcorn in large bowl.
2. Melt marshmallows over low heat; stir constantly.
3. Add milk and jello; stir till jello is dissolved.
4. Take off of stove; stir in the candy.
5. Pour over popcorn; stir to coat evenly
6. Lightly grease your hands. Shape about 4 heaping Tablespoons popcorn mix into wreath shapes
7. Lay on waxed paper to cool down completely. Make wreathes out of the rest of the mix.
8. Store in an airtight container  Photo from Artists Helping Children

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CHRISTMAS "RED AND GREEN" POPCORN

Make popcorn any way you'd like.
Once it's done popping, spread out on a cookie sheet. 
Drizzle red and green food coloring over the entire batch of popcorn.
Mix well until you have your desired Christmas colors.

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MERRY CHRISTMAS CUPCAKES!

 

1. Make the green and red cupcakes (tint half the mix with red food gel and half with green)
2. Slice them up alternating cake layers (Freeze the baked cupcakes first--it's much easier to slice them)
3. Fill with a marshmallow butter cream between the layers and swirled on top.
4. Optional: Sprinkle with some red and green large non-pareils. Source: sugarswings

RECIPE FOR 'MARSHMALLOW BUTTER CREAM' FROSTING
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow cream or Marshmallow Fluff
1 cup confectioners' sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Beat butter in a medium bowl with mixer on medium speed until creamy. Beat in marshmallow cream. When well blended, beat in confectioners' sugar and vanilla. Increase speed to high and beat 3-4 minutes until fluffy. (This will be sweet) Source: foodgeeks

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SNOWBALL MARSHMALLOWS
Ingredients:
Bag of Large Marshmallows, Corn Syrup, Sugar Crystals, Cake Sparkle Sprinkles

• Gently brush each marshmallow with corn syrup.
• Roll in sugar crystals and cake sparkles.
• Set aside on parchment paper to dry.
• Cover lightly with saran wrap to keep air off so marshmallows don't dry out.
• Once set, enjoy or place into snack-sized zip-lock bags for gifts or later!

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BANANA AND STRAWBERRY 'CANDY CANE'

 

This is an easy 1-2-3 healthy snack your kids will love!

Simply alternate banana slices and strawberry halves. Place in the shape of a candy cane. If you like your fruit sweetened, sprinkle sugar on the berries before placing on plate. This 'cane' was formed-- and then sprinkled with powdered sugar...(Sample and image by KidActivities.net)

 

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HOLIDAY BEVERAGES

PEPPERMINT PATTY MOCHA (For Mom and Dad!)
Ingredients: 1 small (1-1/2 inch) YORK Peppermint Pattie
1 to 2 teaspoons milk
Hot coffee
Whipped cream(optional)
 
Directions:
1. Unwrap candy and cut into quarters; place in large microwave-safe mug. Add milk.
2. Microwave at HIGH (100%) 30 seconds or until candy is melted and smooth when stirred. Stir in hot coffee until mug is almost full.
3. Top with whipped cream, if desired. Serve immediately. 1 serving. .

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CANDY CANE (Hot Chocolate) MINT FLOAT   
Ingredients:

3/4  cup (6 oz.) prepared hot chocolate
1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2  cup  Mint Chip Ice Cream
Whipping cream, whipped
Mint candy cane, crushed
(...If you're an adult loking for a yummy holiday drink--you can add 2 tablespoons peppermint schnapps or creme de cocao liqueur instead of the extract)
 
In large  mug, pour hot chocolate and extract or liqueur; stir to mix. Spoon ice cream into hot chocolate mixture. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle of candy..Or top with whipped cream and a peppermint candy cane or stick. Yumm...
Makes 1 serving...

TIP: For 4 servings, use 3 cups (24 oz.) hot chocolate, 1/2 cup liqueur or 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract and 1 carton (14 fl. oz.) of ice cream. Follow directions above.

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NORTH POLE STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE (Yummy!) 
Makes:2 servings

1 package (10 ounces) frozen strawberries in syrup, partially thawed and undrained
1/4 cup water
2 cups vanilla frozen yogurt
2 tablespoons vanilla reduced-fat yogurt
1 strawberry-flavored or peppermint candy cane, about 6 inches long, finely crushed
Green decorating gel

1. Place strawberries and water in blender. Cover and blend on medium-high speed until slushy. Blend on medium speed until smooth. Transfer to 2-cup measure.
2. Wash and dry blender. Place frozen yogurt and reduced-fat yogurt in blender. Cover and blend on medium speed until smooth.
3. Place crushed candy cane on small plate. Pipe decorating gel around rim of two 12-ounce glasses. Dip rims into crushed candy.
4. Carefully pour yogurt mixture and strawberries at the same time into glasses, creating a half-and-half design. Serve with large drinking straws if desired.
From: bettycrocker.com

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HOLIDAY SODA... A refreshing holiday soda drink!

Ingredients:
8 oz. bottle of club soda
Any cranberry juice, preferably cranraspberry
Ice
Candy cinnamon stick

Fill glass half full of juice--Add soda and stir--Add ice --Add candy
stick

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HOT RASBERRY AND APPLE CIDER PUNCH

Ingredients:

2 quarts (2 L) sweet apple cider
1 can (12-oz/355-mL) frozen raspberry cocktail concentrate, thawed
1 or 2 whole cinnamon sticks, broken in half
2 cups (500 mL) frozen raspberries
 

In a saucepan, stir together apple cider, raspberry cocktail concentrate and cinnamon sticks.
Bring to a boil over medium heat and then lower the heat to low.  Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Stir in raspberries and serve directly from the saucepan or transfer to a Crock-Pot to keep warm. (Good to make at home too!)
Servings: 8 to 10

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HOT CRANBERRY PUNCH
Source: "Cooking Light, Nov/Dec 1994, page 145"

12 cups cranberry juice cocktail
4 cups orange juice
1 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon grated orange rind
12 whole cloves
6 cinnamon sticks -- (3-inch)
Combine all the ingredients in a large Dutch oven, and bring to a
boil.
Reduce heat, and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain the juice mixture, and
discard spices.
Serving Size: 1 cup

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HOT CIDER PUNCH (My favorite! B) 

1 gal. (4 qt.) apple cider
One cup of orange juice (suit to your taste)
Orange slices a nice touch...
2- 4 cinnamon sticks

PLACE all ingredients in large saucepan. Cook on low heat 20 min. or until heated through, stirring occasionally. (Do not boil.)

Can also be made in crock pot-- cook for several hours and then float a few orange slices in pot when serving...
REMOVE cinnamon sticks-Serve warm.

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HOLIDAY PUNCH

1 12 oz can of frozen white grape juice - thawed
1 pt French vanilla ice cream softened
2 liters ginger ale
Cnnamon

Pour grape juice concentrate into punch bowl, add ice cream and mix together with wire whisk...As the bowl begins to empty add anoth of ginger ale.

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CRANBERRY PUNCH

This sparkling red punch is a good choice for a buffet at holiday time with a citrus bite. For a less sweet punch, substitute seltzer or club soda for the ginger ale.

Makes about 1 1/2 quarts.

Ingredients
2 cups cranberry juice
2 cups pineapple juice
1 cup orange juice
1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 lime, thinly sliced
(If making for adult home celebration-- may add 3/4 cup triple sec optional)
4 cups ginger ale, chilled
Instructions

In a large glass container, combine ingredients and chill thoroughly.

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PEPPERMINT FLOATS

Ingredients:
Vanilla ice-cream
Ginger Ale
Miniature candy canes
Red and green sugar sprinkles (crystals)
Large opening straws

Add one scoop of vanilla ice-cream to cup.
Pour ginger Ale over top of ice-cream.
Add a candy cane and sprinkle the colored sugar on top
Submitted by Gerri/Illinois

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For tons of Hot Cocoa ideas visit  HOT COCOA RECIPES CATEGORY...Yummy! Cocoa gift ideas and poems also there...

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SNICKERS & APPLES...Yummy for the Holidays! Recipes taken from the Snacking/Cooking with Apples...

(Kids love this--in fact everyone loves it all year long!)
#1 Made with 12 Apples...

Core and dice 6 red Delicious apples. (Leave peeling on for color.) Core and dice 6 green apples. (Leave peeling on for color.)
Add 6-8 frozen SNICKERS® candy bars which have been crushed or pounded with a rolling pin so they are in big pieces. Fold all together. Add a big carton of Cool Whip. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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SNICKERS® - APPLE SALAD
#2 Made with 3 apples... 
1 (8 oz.) container Cool Whip
3 apples, diced
3 regular size SNICKERS® candy bars, frozen
Mix together the Cool Whip and apples. Smash the SNICKERS® bars and add to the salad. Best if you allow to stand for a little while before serving.

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APPLE SNICKERS® SALAD
#3 Made with 6-8 apples... 
6-8 apples (unpeeled)
2 SNICKERS® bars
1 1/2 to 2 c. Cool Whip
Marshmallows (optional)
Cut apples in small pieces. Dice SNICKERS® and add them and Cool Whip. Let chill at least 1 hour.

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Back to Page 1 of Christmas Snacks and Goodies...

 FOR OTHER WINTER HOLIDAY & GOOD ALL-WINTER TIME SNACKS visit...

• HOT COCOA RECIPES CATEGORY...Yummy!
• SNOWMAN THEMED SNACKS  
• PRETZEL RECIPES OF ALL TYPES  
• EASY CANDY RECIPES
• CANDY CANES & What You Can Do With Them
• LOTS OF SNACK MIX RECIPES
• Be sure to visit the WINTER THEMED FOOD PAGE.  Goodies that would also be great for this Holiday Season!
• REINDEER THEME
• SNOWFLAKE THEME

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Of course you can eat them as they are... but you can also... 

1. USE AS STIR STICKS...
Use candy canes instead of spoons and stir sticks in all of your favorite beverages! They're yummy and add a bit of sweet peppermint taste to hot chocolate/cocoa, tea, coffee and hot apple cider. They're also great in milk shakes!

2. CRUSH THEM AND...
• Use as SPRINKLES on top of: ice-cream and frosted cookies, cupcakes and cakes. Put them on top of the whipped cream on your hot cocoa!

• MAKE CANDY CANE SUGAR...
Pulverize candy canes into a finer powder and use for: Sweetening your tea, cocoa, iced tea and coffe drinks!

• MAKE CANDY CANE SYRUP
Ingredeints:
2 cups of sugar, 1 cup of water, 6 to 8 candy canes.

1. Put sugar and water into a saucepan; with stove-top at medium heat stir.
 
2. Add the candy cane pieces to the pan and continue stirring frequently as the mixture heats.The candy canes will start dissolving, and  the syrup will begin to turn a creamy pink color. (Or whatever color the canes are--when all the sugar and candy canes are dissolved, it will turn clear and take on a deep pink color.
 
3. Continue cooking until syrup comes to a boil. Let it boil for about 2-3 minutes and then let  syrup to cool in the pan.

4. When cooled, pour into a jar with a lid.

Wonderful for adding to hot chocolate, drizzling over ice cream or putting in pretty jars and bottles (with a candy can attached of course!) for a 'sweet' gift.

3. CRUSH AND MIX INTO FAVORITE RECIPES... Crushed canes mixed with melted chocolate or white chocolate make a delicious chocolate peppermint bark or fudge...make Peppermint Ice Cream, Candy Cane Brownies...add them to Rice Kripie Treats! (Recipes for Wands and Brittle are below)
TIP: If you're going to 'MIX IN' crushed candy canes--blend or puree them. It makes a much finer taste as it's baked or mixed into another dessert. You can do this with candy canes or peppermint round candies. Using a blender, crush them to powder. Be prepared...it gets loud!

4. MAKE PEPPERMINT WHIPPED CREAM FOR HOT CHOCOLATE...

→ Buy peppermint candy canes or peppermint round candies. Using a blender, crush them to powder.
→ Using either 16 oz. of 'Cool Whip' or your own whipped--whipping cream-- use a 1/2 cup of powdered peppermint candy.
→ Stir the crushed candy into the cream topping. It makes a fun pink cream and the tiny chunks that didn't crush add to the yummy!
→Top each mug of cocoa with one or two spoonfuls of peppermint pink topping.
Notes:
To store left over cream, put into freezer baggies or a freezing container; freeze until needed again.
To thaw--place in refrigerator.
To store leftover peppermint powder--place in a plastic bag or covered container.

5. Use them as KABOB STICKS or as a dessert fondue SKEWER. (Great to spear those marshmallows and dip in chocolate and roll in special coatings!)

6. USE AS HOLIDAY ORNAMENTS, GIFTS, and EMBELLISHMENTS

•Canes are pretty just put in a glass jar-and grouped with other candy. Or use this idea at Holiday time from classytreats (I needed to disable the link. When I tried it the url had changed)... Just hang wrapped candy canes from the edge of a bowled-dish! Put a  jar candle inside. (You could fill the inside with peppermint candies or any other Christmas candy instead of using a candle.)

•Use along with other Christmas ornaments and hang on your tree...

•Hot glue canes around a basket, container, or candles. Preserve them with a cover of clear acrylic coating.

Another wonderful idea is from oodlekadoodle...Using a glue gun, glue candy canes, side-by-side (standing on end with their hooks at the top) to the outside of a terra cotta pot. Tie a red ribbon around the pot. Place a small poinsettia or greens inside the pot... or fill the pot with wrapped candy. (Note: I don't see the hooks. It appears as oddlekadoodle used peppermint sticks-but either way would be lovely. Barb)

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• CANDY CANE REINDEER

Materials:
2 pipe cleaners, candy cane, two 6 mm google eyes, 1/4" pom pom, glue, scissors
 
This has been around awhile--but great fun for first-timers!

1. Cut one long pipe cleaner in fourths.
2. Twist the other long pipe cleaner around the top of the cane to make 2 large antlers.
3. Wrap 2 pieces of the cut pipe cleaner pieces --around each antler to make the "branches" on the antler.
4. Glue the eyes to each side of the cane "hook.
5. Glue the pom pom at the end of the cane for the nose. You have a reindeer! NOTE: Oops!  I didn't look at the 'antler' directions when this was made. This sample shows one half of a pipe-cleaner twisted and then bent a bit...Depending on your age group--do which ever is easier...

 

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7. 'CANDY  CANE' RECIPES...

• MAKE 'CANDY CANE' BRITTLE
Makes 2 pounds
From the kitchen of Cheree Bailey

Ingredients:
1/2 cup light corn syrup and 1 cup sugar
1 cup crushed candy canes OR 1-1/2 cups nuts of your choice
1 teaspoon butter or margarine
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon baking soda

1. In a round 1-1/2 quart microwave safe dish, combine corn syrup and sugar. Stir well until blended. Microwave on high for 4 minutes.

2. Stir mixture (if using nuts instead of candy canes, stir nuts in now).

3. Microwave on high 4-5 minutes or until light brown.

4. Stir in butter and vanilla-blend well. Microwave on high 1-2 minutes.

5. Add baking soda--stir lightly until foamy.

6. Quickly pour onto lightly greased baking sheet (you can use Pam or shortening). Pour crushed candy canes over brittle while warm and press lightly onto surface. Let cool.

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• CANDY CANE (Hot Chocolate) MINT FLOAT   
Ingredients:

3/4  cup (6 oz.) prepared hot chocolate
1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2  cup  Mint Chip Ice Cream
Whipping cream, whipped
Mint candy cane, crushed
(OK...If you're an adult loking for a yummy holiday drink--you can add 2 tablespoons peppermint schnapps or creme de cocao liqueur instead of the extract)
 
In large  mug, pour hot chocolate and extract or liqueur; stir to mix. Spoon ice cream into hot chocolate mixture. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle of candy..Or top with whipped cream and a peppermint candy cane or stick. Yumm...
Makes 1 serving...

TIP: For 4 servings, use 3 cups (24 oz.) hot chocolate, 1/2 cup liqueur or 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract and 1 carton (14 fl. oz.) of ice cream. Follow directions above.

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• HAPPY HOLIDAY  HOT COCOA with pulverized Candy Canes mixed in... 

 Ingredients: 8 cups dry instant skim milk
4 3/4 cups powdered sugar (note: can use 1/2 Splenda & 1/2 icing/confectioners sugar)
1 3/4 cups cocoa
1 1/2 cup Light non-dairy creamer
1 small package Low-fat instant chocolate pudding mix
1 box of 12 candy canes, pulverized (See dirtions at top of page on how to pulverize) 
Combine above ingredients in a large mixing bowl and fold together well-- or place into a food processor and mix to make it a fine powder.
To Serve:
Mix 2 tablespoons in a mug of hot water, top with marshmallows ...can put a candy cane in cup as stirrer... Source: celebrating-christmas.com

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• PEPPERMINT FLOATS

Ingredients:
Vanilla ice-cream
Ginger Ale
Miniature candy canes
Red and green sugar sprinkles (crystals)
Large opening straws

Add one scoop of vanilla ice-cream to cup.
Pour ginger Ale over top of ice-cream.
Add a candy cane and sprinkle the colored sugar on top
Submitted by Gerri/Illinois

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• POPCORN BALLS ON 'CANDY CANE' HOOKS

Make popcorn balls and put the straight end of a miniature candy cane into each one.
Sprinkle colored sugar onto the balls before they harden.
Wrap in colorful cellophane.
The popcorn ball ornaments will have built-in peppermint tree hooks.
Note: These make great gifts!

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• MAKE CANDY CANE WANDS...Special candy canes for the holidays! Dip them in chocolate and sprinkle with candies ready for tasty festivities! Start to Finish takes 30 min

Ingredients:
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips or white vanilla baking chips
2 teaspoons shortening
16 candy canes or peppermint sticks---about 6 inches long
Crushed hard peppermint candies
Miniature chocolate chips, candy decorations
Colored glitter sugars or coarse sugar crystals (decorating sugar), if desired

1. Line jelly roll pan, 15 1/2 x 101/2 x 1 inch, with waxed paper.
In 1-quart saucepan, heat 1/2 cup chocolate chips and the shortening over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted.
 
2. Tip saucepan so chocolate runs to one side. Dip 1 candy cane at a time into chocolate, coating about half of each cane. Place on waxed paper in pan. Let stand about 2 minutes or until chocolate is partially dry.
 
3. Roll chocolate-dipped ends in candies. Place on waxed paper in pan. Let stand about 10 minutes or until chocolate is dry. Store loosely covered at room temperature up to 2 weeks.

FOR A SPECIAL TOUCH...
Double-Dipped Candy Cane Wands: Dip candy canes into one kind of chocolate and allow to dry, then dip into a second chocolate, leaving part of the first chocolate to show. A Better Crocker Recipe

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• CHOCOLATE DIPPED CANDY CANES (Great to stir Hot Cocoa!)
Ingredients:
Candy canes
Chocolate chips or favorite melting chocolate
Hot Chocolate Drink Mix

1. Melt chocolate in microwave. If using semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips-melt it in the microwave and check it each minute.
2. Dip the candy canes half-way into the chocolate.
3. Lay on wax paper to cool. You'll now have the yummiest stir sticks around! (Visit the wonderful Hot Cocoa Category!)

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How cute are these?! REINDEER CUPCAKES

• Use small candy canes (take wrappers off) to decorate and make 'Reindeer' cupcakes! Your kids will love doing this one!

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OTHER IDEAS...

•'PEPPERMINT CANDY' SPOONS

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 candy cane or 5 peppermint candies, crushed
12 heavy-duty plastic spoons in Christmas colors

1.  Put candy in a baggie and crush with a rolling pin.
2.  Melt chocolate.
3.  Dip spoons into chocolate to fill.
4.  Sprinkle with crushed candy.
5.  Place on waxed paper covered cookie sheet to cool.
Wrap with cellophane and tie with ribbons for gifts.

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 • GROW CANDY CANES FROM 'CANDY CANE SEEDS' (A cute, easy, and quick Holiday gift) 

 Put round, red and white peppermint candies into a pretty container or a small bag--tie with this poem attached.

I once knew a gardener who knew how to grow-
Bright tasty candies, right out of the snow.

I asked him to share his secret with me-
And this is what he said quite readily.

To garden in winter is difficult you see
It takes lots of care and a  special seed.

I'll give you a couple to grow your own treats-
And you'll soon reap a harvest of candy cane treats

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 • VALENTINE CANDY CANES...Remember this one when you have left-over Christmas Candy Canes!

Hot glue two candy canes together at the tips. They make a perfectly shaped heart! Put out construction paper, paper doilies, the candy canes, markers, ribbons, etc. Next, challenge the children  to use their imagination in creating cards!  If you have small photos of the children, you could glue these in the center of the hearts. Image byMs. Jane at the Kansas City Public Library. 

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• CANDY CANE CAPPUCCINO  (Gift Jar)

1 cup powdered non-dairy creamer
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup instant coffee
1 cup hot cocoa mix
8 regular sized candy canes, crushed

Blend all ingredients in a food processor or blender until it becomes a smooth powder. Place mixture in small jars and decorate with fabric and ribbon-- and attach the tag.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR TAG (attach to jar/bag)... Candy Cane Cappuccino...
Stir 1 tablespoon of cappuccino mix into 1 cup boiling water. For a richer cup of cappuccino, place 1 tablespoon of mix into 1 cup of hot milk.

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GIFT SPOON IDEAS...USE FOR COFFEE, HOT CHOCOLATE OR TEA! Nice gifts but also a great winter time activity!!!

CHOCOLATE SPOONS
These are nice!
For 12 spoons need:
1 cup (6 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips and 12 heavy-duty plastic spoons in winter colors ( OR....pick up mismatched spoons at a thrift store)

Melt the chocolate in the microwave. Start at about 2 minutes and then keep checking. You don't want to burn the chocolate. Dip the spoons into the chocolate...allow the spoons to cool slightly, then dip them in the chocolate again. Repeat until chocolate reaches your desired thickness on the spoon. If a gift---after the spoons are cool, wrap them in gift cellophane and tie with a ribbon or yarn. Wonderful for coffee and hot chocolate...

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 PEPPERMINT CANDY SPOONS

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 candy cane or 5 peppermint candies, crushed
12 heavy-duty plastic spoons in Christmas colors

1.  Put candy in a baggie and crush with a rolling pin.
2.  Melt chocolate.
3.  Dip spoons into chocolate to fill.
4.  Sprinkle with crushed candy.
5.  Place on waxed paper covered cookie sheet to cool.
Wrap with cellophane and tie with ribbons for gifts.

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SWEET AND NICE TEA STIRERS

 34 pieces crushed, flavored hard candy; 2 Tbls. light corn syrup; heavyweight clear plastic spoons

• Line a jellyroll pan with waxed paper and spray it with cooking spray. In a small, heavy saucepan- combine crushed candies and corn syrup over low heat. Continuously stir as the candy melts.
• Spoon the melted candy into the bowl of each spoon.
• Place the spoons on a prepared pan with a rim so the spoons are level. Let them stay until the candy again hardens.
•  Store in airtight container or wrap in gift cellophane and ribbons for a gift.

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TWO TEA GIFT IDEAS

 
#1 TEA FOR TWO GIFT

• Insert a small funnel into the top of a 3x4 resealable bag.
• Measure and pour into the bag- 2 teaspoons unsweetened instant tea, ½ tsp. sugar-free cranberry gelatin, and 1/4 tsp. cinnamon powder.
• Remove the funnel and seal the bag.
• Repeat for as many as desired (each gift bag should have two).
• Stack together two 10 ounce foam cups. Put the bags of tea mix into the top cup.
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  #2 RUSSIAN GIFT TEA
  Put in a jar, wrap prettily and give with instructions.
  Ingredients:
  2 cups Tang
  1/2 cup instant tea
  1 package lemonade mix-3 oz.
  1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  3/4 tsp. cloves (optional)
  1/2 cup sugar
• Combine ingredients. Use 2 or 3 heaping teaspoons of mixture to each cup of water. Serve hot or cold.
• Include the recipe and preparation directions:
  “Pour 8 ounces of boiling water into cup. Stir contents of one tea bag until dissolved. Add sugar to taste.”
• Wrap the cups in colorful tissue paper. Add a ribbon or bow.

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CHECK OUT THE recipes and goodies with PRETZELS in the PRETZEL CATEGORY! So many it has its own category! Also has ideas to wrap gift wrap them...

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HERSHEY'S KISSES Flower Bouquet 

Materials: 6" lengths of 12 gauge floral wire
Silk flower leaves
Green floral tape
Clear cellophane
Glue
Scissors
ribbon
Hershey Kisses Milk Chocolates
To create Chocolate Roses:

•  For each candy rose, spread glue on the bottom of one foil-wrapped chocolate. Firmly press the bottom of another chocolate to it.
• Insert florist wire into one pointed end of the double chocolates, twisting cellophane, continuing down the full length of wire with tape.
• Add 1 or 2 artificial leaves, if desired, securing leaves in place with florist tape.

You can also make them by taking two Hershey kisses...  first insert a pipe cleaner or wire into one. Next attach kisses together at flat end with tape or glue; wrap them with red saran wrap. Take 2 wire leaves and attach them to the pipe cleaner with florist tape.......

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RICE KRISPY HERSHEY KISS

For a Valentine's Day or _____ gift make -- a "Hershey Kiss" using rice krispie treats. 
1. Make a batch of the krispie treats
2. Spray a funnel using Pam and push some of the treat into the funnel making a kiss shape.
3. Put the kiss shape onto a piece of foil and wrap it up. Add a gift carad saying I love you or _________!

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CANDY CANE CAPPUCCINO  (Gift Jar)

1 cup powdered non-dairy creamer
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup instant coffee
1 cup hot cocoa mix
8 regular sized candy canes, crushed

Blend all ingredients in a food processor or blender until it becomes a smooth powder. Place mixture in small jars and decorate with fabric and ribbon-- and attach the tag.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR TAG (attach to jar/bag)... Candy Cane Cappuccino:
Stir 1 tablespoon of cappuccino mix into 1 cup boiling water. For a richer cup of cappuccino, place 1 tablespoon of mix into 1 cup of hot milk.

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COCOA MIX GIFT #1  FOR A COLD DAY...

Materials:
Small glass jar (baby food size)
1 serving of hot cocoa mix
About 1/4 cup of small marshmallows
4-inch or larger fabric scrap (depending on the size of your jar)
18" length of ribbon
Glue
Hershey Kiss candy
Small wrapped candy cane
Card

Directions:
Clean the jar and dry it well. Measure a one-cup serving of the hot cocoa mix into the jar. Fill the jar to the top with small marshmallows. . Cut the fabric scrap into a circle. Center the fabric circle on top of the jar lid. Tie the ribbon around the edge. Glue the Hershey Kiss on top of the fabric cover. Glue the candy cane to the side of the jar. Write a personal note and draw a candy cane or other symbol on the card.

Include simple directions like the following:
"Here's a little gift to warm you up on a cold afternoon. Simply pour this jar of cocoa mix into a mug filled with 6 to 8 oz. of hot water. Top with marshmallows and drop in the Hershey Kiss. Stir with the candy cane and enjoy!"

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COCOA GIFT #2 (SNOWMAN SOUP) WITH POEMS

Place in a clear plastic bag...
1 individual pack hot chocolate mix
3 Hershey's chocolate kisses
10-15 mini-marshmallows
1 small candy cane
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Add one of the following poems...

COCOA POEM #1

When the weather outside is frightful,
Snowman Soup can be delightful.
May it warm your spirit and your soul.
Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

When you feel a chill or 'burrrrrr',
Use the peppermint stick to stir.
Add hot water and sip it slow.
Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow.
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POEM #2

When it's so cold that you holler and whoop,
It's time to bring out the Snowman Soup!

Pour the packet in a mug. Add marshmallows too.
And throw in these kisses that are special just for you.

Now add some hot water and use the cane to stir it.
Sip slowly and soon you'll feel the warm winter spirit!
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COCOA POEM #3

A little cup of cocoa, I'm sending your way,
For you to sip and enjoy, On some cold lonely day.

As you sip this cocoa, It's warmth will warm your heart...
Just like our friendship warmed mine, Right from the very start.

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GOURMET APPLES (Adapted from Mrs. Z. Rochester, Mi.)
Apples MUST be dry and room temp.

•Put caramels in a crock pot (You can also microwave the caramel dip sold in stores)
Place Popsicle sticks in  stems of large apples.

•Adult- When caramel is melted, put the apple on a stick in crock pot; make sure it’s totally covered.

•Let it drip; place on wax paper on a paper plate.

•Next have semi-sweet choc melted and put in baggie; snip off the corner of baggie and drizzle over caramel. You can also do white chocolate...

•Decorate  with choice of colored sprinkles, nuts, m&m's, seasonal edible decorations, chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, Reese pieces etc. Mrs. Z gives children the choice of two decorations. (At home she does more)

•Lift off the paper plate and place on a doily.

These make a wonderful gift! For two other Apples on a Stick ideas, visit the Apple Foods category...

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SNOWBALL MARSHMALLOWS

Ingredients:
Bag of Large Marshmallows, Corn Syrup, Sugar Crystals, Cake Sparkle Sprinkles

• Gently brush each marshmallow with corn syrup.
• Roll in sugar crystals and cake sparkles.
• Set aside on parchment paper to dry.
• Cover lightly with saran wrap to keep air off so marshmallows don't dry out.
• Once set, place into snack-sized zip loc bags for gifts or later!

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COLORED SUGARS IN PRETTY CONTAINERS to give as gifts! To make: Combine 1/4 t. food coloring, 1/4 t. water, 1/2 t. vanilla extract and 1/4 c. granulated white sugar. Mix together and spread out in a thin layer to dry. Rub out the lumps between your fingers to make the powder uniform. Use more food coloring for darker colors, and less food coloring for lighter hues.

You can use clean baby food jars and cover the tops with fabric/felt and ribbon! These are to be used on cookies and desserts...

Recipe #2  Without the vanilla and water-Materials: Ziploc bags, Granulated sugar, Food coloring, Paper plates

Put some sugar into a bag and add a drop of food coloring. Close the bag and, with your hand on the outside of the bag, mix the color in. You may need to add slightly more food coloring or sugar until you get the right color and texture (you don’t want the sugar to be at all damp). Tip the sugar on to a paper plate to dry. To use the sugar, tip it back into a clean bag, seal and break up any lumps which have formed. To give as a gift-layer in jars as directed above. They really do look like sand art!

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HOLIDAY GUMDROP/SPICE DROP  CANDY TREE

Materials:
Gumdrop (Spice Drop) Candy
Styrofoam tree - Any size desired; sample is 6"
Tin foil
Pointed Toothpicks

1. Cover the tree base with tin foil
2. Break toothpicks in half
3. Put a gumdrop on the broken side of the tooth pick...
3. Starting at the bottom of the tree, poke the pointed side of the tooth pick (with the gumdrop on it) into the tree.
4. Continue going around the tree until it's covered with the candy.

Use caution with young children ... it can be difficult removing the toothpicks. These should only be for decoration. 

I remember making these in the late 1960's! Seeing a photo of one on a website --brought back some nice memories--so guess what?! I made one and "Hubby" made the other...(Barb)

Click Here for directions for "Candy Cane Seeds" and "Snowman and Reindeer Poop" Gifts! 

 Back to top of page

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Other Craft Categories that are also great for Gifts are:

• Crafts for crafts or that are great for Gifts
• Children's Crafts that Smell Good! 
• Gifts from a Child's Heart
• Creative Ways to Wrap Gifts

  You may also be interested in...

• EASY CANDY RECIPES
• POPCORN SNACKS AND GOODIES
• SNACK MIX RECIPES
• Apple Recipes-Check out APPLES ON A STICK near the page middle.
• All kinds of DIPPED PRETZELS and Pretzel Treats.

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Wrapping pretzels for gifts are at page bottom...

HUGS AND KISSES  PRETZELS (Good all year round!)

Ingredients: 3 (10 ounce) bags checkerboard, windowpane or round shaped pretzels
1 (large pound size) bag M&Ms plain chocolate candies.  (Use Red and Green M&M's for Christmas--Red and Pink for Valentine--Green for St. Paddy Day, etc.) 

Hershey's Hugs chocolates
Hershey's chocolate kisses

 Preheat oven to 170 degrees.

Open the bags of pretzels and place them on a parchment or waxed paper-lined cookie sheets in a single layer. DO ONLY ONE TYPE OF CANDY PER SHEET because the Hugs melt faster than the kisses.

Unwrap Hugs or Kisses, place one on each pretzel, repeat for an entire cookie sheet.

Place cookie sheets in the preheated oven, bake 4 MINUTES FOR THE SHEET OF pretzels and HUGS, 5-6 minutes for the pretzels and KISSES. Remove from oven and immediately put a M&M on top of each pretzel/chocolate, pressing down gently. Place cookie sheet in freezer or refrigerator until the chocolate is reset.  If this is a gift...wrap either in cellophane bags, a tin or a candy box. (Photo sample by KidActivities. This version  used chocolate Kisses candy on square pretzels.) 

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CHOCOLATE DIPPED PRETZEL RODS
Ingredients:
Pretzel Rods
Semisweet chocolate chips
Sprinkles (the sugar sprinkles won’t work as well as non-perils or “jimmy” sprinkles) (The pictured also have caramel drizzled on them.)

• Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
• Melt the chocolate chips in either a double boiler or in a mason jar over a pot of simmering water. Remove from heat.
• While the chocolate is still hot, dip the rods in the chocolate and place on the cookie sheet.
• Using a spoon, scoop out some chocolate and finish covering the rods to ½ of the way down.
• Sprinkle with sprinkles. Allow to cool until solid.
  Wrap either individually or in bunches in Pretzel Rod bags.
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LARGE CHOCOLATE DIPPED PRETZELS
12 oz.) bag chocolate chips
Large pretzels (Not rods)
Melt chocolate and dip pretzels in chocolate leaving about 1/2-inch space at top of pretzel to hold. Lay on wax paper and let set.
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WHITE CHOCOLATE DIPPED PRETZELS 
1 lg. bag pretzels
1 lbs. white chocolate
Melt chocolate in microwave as package shows. Dip pretzel in chocolate and place on wax paper; let cool. To change the color of the chocolate, add food coloring before dipping.
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MILK CHOCOLATE AND PEANUT 3" PRETZELS

Ingredients: 1 pkg. (11 1/2 oz.) milk chocolate morsels, 3 inch square chopped paraffin wax, 3 1/2 to 4 doz. (3 inch) pretzels, Unsalted peanuts, finely chopped, Mixed colored sprinkles...

• Line several trays or baking sheets with foil; set aside.
• Melt milk chocolate morsels and wax over hot (not boiling) water.
• Stir until morsels and wax melt and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.
• Using tongs, dip each pretzel in chocolate; drain excess. Place on foil-lined tray.
• Before chocolate sets, sprinkle with choice of peanuts or sprinkles; repeat with remaining pretzels.
• If chocolate starts to set, return to heat until melted.

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ROLO CARAMEL SMALL TWISTED PRETZELS
Ingredients:
Small pretzels (twisted)
ROLO Chewy Caramels in Milk Chocolate
Pecan halves 

1. Heat oven to 350 F. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper or foil.

2. Place one pretzel for each pretzel treat desired on prepared sheet. Top each pretzel with one ROLO Chewy Caramel in Milk Chocolate.

3. Bake 3 to 5 minutes or until caramel piece begins to soften, but not melt. Remove from oven; top with either A pecan half or additional pretzel. Cool completely before storing in airtight container.

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CHOCOLATE (ALMOND BARK) COVERED PRETZEL RODS 

1 bag of pretzel rods
3 to 4 squares of almond bark-any flavor

Melt chocolate in dry, narrow but deep, microwave-safe dish.
Dip in pretzel rods to coat 3/4. Shake off excess. Lay dipped pretzels on waxed paper. Chill or freeze until set.

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BUTTER BRICKLE PRETZEL RODS
1 box pretzel rods
1 pound white chocolate
1 package butter brickle chips

Melt chocolate. Dip two-thirds of each pretzel rod into the chocolate. Roll on butter brickle chips.

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BUTTERSCOTCH PRETZELS  

1 (6 oz.) pkg. butterscotch chips
1 tbsp. cooking oil
3-4 doz. small pretzels
1/4 c. chopped nuts

Melt butterscotch pieces and oil over hot, but not boiling water. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat but keep over water. With tongs, dip each pretzel into butterscotch. Place coated pretzels on wire racks (with foil underneath to catch drippings, if desired). Sprinkle tops of pretzels with chopped nuts. Refrigerate a few minutes until coating is firm.
Makes 3-4 dozen.

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CHOCOLATE CHIP CARAMEL PRETZEL RODS  

1 (14 oz.) pkg. caramels
2 tbsp. water
20 pretzel rods
3 c. miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips

Line cookie sheet with wax paper. Unwrap 1 package of caramels into 4 cup microwave proof measure. Add water. Microwave on high until melted (2 1/2 minutes), stirring every minute. Cool about 10 minutes. Dip 20 pretzel rods into caramels just to coat, leaving 2 inch handle. Roll in 3 cups miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips. Place on wax paper and let stand until firm.

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FROSTING & PRETZELS -- 84 Servings)

Heat contents of 1 tub Creamy Deluxe vanilla or chocolate ready-to-spread frosting in 1 qt. saucepan over low heat until melted. Keep frosting over low heat, stirring occasionally; dip small pretzel twists into frosting to coat. Place on waxed paper; let stand until dry, about 8 hours

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RAINBOW PRETZELS

Ingredients:
3 different colors of Candy Melts (Purchased at candy supply or craft store)
Pretzel rods or shapes
1. Melt the candy.
2.Using a teaspoon, swirl the colors onto the pretzel rods or shapes--until you achieve your desired 'rainbow' result.
3. Sprinkle on rainbow jimmies before the candy melts dry.
Note: Even though the melts will be pastel colors of pink, blue, green or yellow -the flavors will all be vanilla.

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 HOLIDAY PRETZEL RODS

REINDEER CHOCOLATE COVERED PRETZEL RODS (Pretzel rods with antlers)

 Ingredients:
4 ounces chocolate vanilla or butterscotch-flavored almond bark--chopped
12 large pretzel twists
12 pretzel rods
24 miniature semisweet chocolate chips
12 red M&M'schocolate candies (sample uses gree for nose)
1 roll Betty Crocker Fruit by the Foot--Cherry or other flavor chewy fruit snack rolls
12 miniature  M&M's

  1. Place candy coating (Almond Bark) in 1-cup microwavable measuring cup. Microwave uncovered on High 30 to 60 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds, until melted.
 
2. Dip pretzel twists into melted candy coating. Place on waxed paper. Let stand until coating is set.
 
3. If necessary, re-warm coating. Dip top 2 inches of pretzel rod into melted candy coating; attach pretzel rod to bottom of pretzel twist. Place on waxed paper.
 
4. To make reindeer...
Press on chocolate chips for eyes and red M & M for nose-- using melted candy coating.

• Cut scarf from fruit roll; attach to reindeer using candy coating.
• Press on green M & M for button using candy coating. Place on waxed paper. Let stand until coating is set.
• Store coated pretzel rods loosely covered at room temperature no longer than 2 weeks. Really cute! (Source: Betty Crocker)

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HALLOWEEN (or any Holiday color) PRETZEL RODS
Ingredients:
2 cups white chocolate candy melts or white chocolate chips
Orange colored sugar or sprinkles (for Christmas use red and green) 
Chocolate sprinkles
20 pretzel rods
Preparation:
1. Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.
2. Place candy melts or white chocolate chips in a double boiler. Heat over low heat until melted.
3. Spread orange sprinkles and chocolate sprinkles in even layers on two separate shallow plates.
4. Dip pretzel rods into white chocolate, using a spoon to coat the rods well.
5. Press gently into orange or other colored sprinkles. Turn, then press into chocolate sprinkles.
6. Place pretzel rods on prepared baking sheet. Let harden for 20-30 minutes.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

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GOODIES WITH PRETZELS AS AN INGREDIENT!

CARAMEL CHOCOLATE CLUSTERS WITH PRETZELS  

25 soft caramels
1 tbsp. water
1 c. coarsely chopped walnuts
1 c. M&M'S plain chocolate candies
1/2 c. broken thin pretzel sticks

1. In medium saucepan, stir caramels and water over low heat until smooth.
2. Remove from heat and gently stir in nuts, candies and pretzels.
3. Drop by heaping teaspoonfuls onto greased waxed paper lined cookie sheets. Let stand until firm.

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PRETZEL CANDY DROPS
1 1/2cup Broken pretzel sticks
1 1/2 cup Nuts; chopped
1 pound White candy chocolate
Break pretzels into thirds, add nuts. Melt chocolate according to package directions. Pour chocolate over pretzels and nuts, stirring to cover all. Drop by spoonfuls onto wax paper on cookie sheet. Refrig about 10 minutes.

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 BARB’S WINTER HOLIDAY SPECIAL (Or anytime special)
This one is really good---a tradition in many holiday homes!  (I make this every year!)

   1 2/3 cups (11-ounce package) Nestle TOLL HOUSE Butterscotch Morsels AND 1 1/2 cups (9 ounces) Nestle® TOLL HOUSE Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
   1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
   2 cups pretzel sticks
   2 cups dry-roasted peanuts
   1 1/3 cups Nestle RAISINETS Milk Chocolate-Covered Raisins
   Directions:

1. Butter 13 x 9-inch baking pan. 

2. Microwave 1 1/3 cups butterscotch morsels, semi-sweet morsels and peanut butter in large, uncovered, microwave-safe bowl on HIGH (100%) power for 1 minute; STIR. The morsels may retain some of their original shape. If necessary, microwave at additional 10- to 15-second intervals, stirring just until morsels are melted.

3. ADD pretzels, peanuts and Raisinets; stir well to coat. Spread into prepared baking pan.

4. REFRIGERATE for 1 hour or until firm.

5. Break into bite-size pieces or chunks. Note: It can be very difficult to break apart. Last time I made this-- my husband used a chisel LOL! Yes-it was clean...Barb 

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CANDY CARAMEL PRETZELS AND POP CORN  

16 c. popped popcorn
2 c. firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 c. dark corn syrup
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 c. of M&M's, raisins, chocolate mints
5 c. miniature pretzels
1 c. butter
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. salted peanuts

1. Heat oven to 200 degrees. In large roasting pan combine popcorn and pretzels, set aside.

2. In 2 quart saucepan combine brown sugar, butter, corn syrup and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture comes to a full boil (12 to 14 minutes).

3. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally until small amount of mixture dropped in ice forms a soft ball or candy thermometer reaches 238 degrees.

4. Remove from heat, stir in baking soda.
 
5. Pour over popcorn and pretzels, sprinkle peanuts over caramel mixture. Stir until all popcorn is coated.
 
6. Bake for 20 minutes, stir. Continue baking for 25 minutes. Remove from oven.
 
7. Stir in candy.

8. Immediately place caramel corn on waxed paper, cool.Break into pieces and store in tightly covered container.
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RANCH PRETZELS (APPETIZERS)  

1 bag broken up pretzels
1 pkg. Ranch style dressing (dry)
1/2 tsp. lemon pepper
1/2 tsp. dill weed
1/2 tsp. garlic powder or salt
1 c. oil

Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Break pretzels in bite size pieces and put in 9 x 13 inch cake pan. Mix oil, Ranch pack, dill weed, lemon pepper, and garlic together in small bowl.
Pour over pretzels and mix up and put in oven for 15-20 minutes. Stir about three times while baking. Let cool.
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STRAWBERRY PRETZEL JELLO DESSERT (or buffet dish) - - It may seem this is off  topic--but it DOES contain Pretzels and people really like it!  

 

1ST LAYER:

1 sm. bag pretzels, crushed (about 2 TO 2 1/2 cups)
3 tbsp. sugar
3/4 c. melted butter
Press into 9"x13" pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Cool.

2ND LAYER:
1 (8 oz.) pkg. softened cream cheese
1 c. sugar
Beat cream cheese and sugar, mix in 1 (8 oz.) container Cool Whip. Spread over cooled crust.

3RD LAYER:
Mix this layer together first and then set aside to thicken.
Dissolve 1 large box strawberry Jello in 2 cups boiling water. Add diced frozen strawberries, 12 ounce bag or 2 cups cut up fresh. Gently pour over 2nd layer. Refrigerate to set.

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BLUEBERRY PRETZEL DELIGHT   

3 tbsp. sugar
2 c. crushed pretzels
3/4 c. butter, melted
1 (8 oz.) cream cheese
1/2 c. confectioners' sugar
1 (8 oz.) Cool Whip
1 can blueberry pie filling
1 lg. black raspberry Jello
2 1/2 c. boiling water

Mix together the sugar, pretzels and butter. Press it into the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan. Bake 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Cool. 

Cream softened cheese, add the confectioners' sugar, beat. Fold in Cool Whip.
Spread it over the baked cooked layer. 

Make Jello, add 2 1/2 cup boiling water to gelatin. Cool until syrupy, add can of blueberry filling. 

Chill until slightly thickened. Spread over cream cheese layer and chill. Serves 16 to 20.

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CHERRY AND PRETZEL DESSERT 

2 c. coarsely crushed pretzels (save out 1/2 for topping)
1 c. melted butter
3/4 c. sugar
Mix together and press in bottom of 9 x 13 inch pan (chill).

1/2 c. powdered sugar
8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
Mix together and spread over crust:

1 can cherry pie filling
Pour over cream cheese. Top with Cool Whip and sprinkle 1/2 cup pretzels on top.

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 BUTTER PRETZEL COOKIES   

2 c. sifted flour
1/2 c. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
1 c. butter
2 1/2 tsp. vanilla
2 tbsp. milk
2 c. coarsely crushed pretzels (about 36 thin twisted pretzels)
Confectioners' sugar

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
2. Sift flour, sugar, and salt together.
3. Work in the butter and vanilla, then add milk and pretzels.
4. Shape into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place on greased cookie sheets. Bake in oven for about 25 minutes. 6. While still warm, roll cookies in confectioners' sugar. Makes about 5 dozen. 

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BACON PRETZEL RODS (Hmmm-let me know what you think about this one!)  

1 lb. bacon
1 pkg. pretzel rods

Cut each bacon strip in half lengthwise.
Wrap bacon around pretzel rod in a spiral fashion.
Microwave on bacon rack until bacon is cooked, about 6 minutes for 8 pretzels.
These can also be broiled in the oven on a cookie sheet until bacon is done.
Optional: Sprinkle with garlic salt or Worcestershire sauce.

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WRAPPING PRETZELS FOR GIFTS

...Image courtesy of Bigsislittlesis

Any of the above Pretzel Recipes are great for gifts... but also fun to make with kids -- for the kids and for yourself!!!  If they are for gifts--the following may give you wrapping ideas...

1. Purchase 'PRETZEL BAGS'.  Place 1 or more pretzels in a bags--dipped side up. Wrap prettily with ribbon and bow and you're done!

2. SMALL VASE
To make a "bouquet" of pretzels, stand pretzels dipped side up and wrap the tops individually in cellophane. Place them in a small vase and wrap it with a bow.

3. Take a TWO QUART JAR and fill the bottom of the jar a few inches with basket filler, shredded cellophane, or scrunched tissue paper. Put a pretty ribbon/bow or raffia around the jar. Stand the pretzels 'dipped ends up' in the jar.

FABRIC ON ABOVE JAR: You can also take some pretty fabric (or tissue paper); place the jar bottom in the middle of fabric/tisue paper;  pull the paper up with the material or paper flowing over the jar top. Secure the fabric or tissue paper at the jar lip with a ribbon!

4. You can do the same as the above using  SMALL CLAY POTS.

5. Place a few Rods that have been wrapped in individual cellophane pretzel bags and place in a cup...

6. Most everyone loves dipped pretzel Rods---if you are giving another wrapped gift---Use a rod as a decoration!  Place a cellophane  and ribbon wrapped rod on top of the wrapped package.

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You may also like some of the ideas in...

•Easy Candy Recipes
•Popcorn Recipes
•Food Gifts Category (Tea mixes, Chocolate covered spoons, Colored Sugars, Apples on a stick, etc.)

•Christmas Snacks and Goodies...

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 Page 2--Return to Page 1 for Autumn Recipes...

 BANANA BLIZZARDS
To serve about 10 children - Blend together one cup cold milk with two or three bananas in a blender. Ask the children to count aloud as you add ten snowballs (scoops of vanilla frozen yogurt) to the blender. Invite the children to turn the blender on and off again to create the blizzard. Serve in 5 ounce cups

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COTTAGE CHEESE SNOWMEN
Ingredients:
Cottage Cheese
Carrots
Cottage Cheese Snowman
Raisins
Slice of toasted bread
Celery stalk
Ice cream scoop and melon ball scoopers (for graduated body size)
Directions:

• Place two or three scoops of cottage cheese on a salad plate.
• Place the raisins to create buttons and eyes.
•  Cut a small piece of carrot for the nose and a slice of celery for the mouth.
• The leafy part of a celery stalk can be adder for arms
  and the hat is cut from the toast.

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 MAKE SNOWFLAKES TO EAT!

•Flour Tortillas 
• Oil 
• Powdered sugar
Warm the tortillas slightly in the microwave so you can fold them. Next fold the tortilla into half, then half again. Cut out designs just like you were making a paper snowflake.
Put a small amount of oil into a skillet. Fry the tortilla in hot oil until crisp. (About 30 seconds on each side) Absorb extra oil on paper towel. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. (Note from Barb: I just made the three in the image. My husband R loved them! They would also be great sprinkled with cinnamon sugar or drizzled with chocolate syrup over the powdered sugar. Children would not be able to fry them- but they could fold and cut them into 'snowflakes'. They could also sprinkle on the sweeteners. 'R' has asked me to make them again!)

NOTE: After making 'Baked Sweet Tortilla Shapes', they taste just as good and are healthier. KidActivities will be trying the snowflakes with the baking method described in page 1 of Fall Recipes.

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SNOWMAN COOKIE
Nice after snow play...this gives 1 Snowman Snack
Ingredients:
3 vanilla wafers,
1 tablespoon vanilla icing,
Raisins/sprinkles/candy corn/other garnish
1. Place vanilla wafers on plate so they are in a vertical line.
2. Coat each wafer with vanilla icing.
3. Decorate snowman however you like. Some ideas: Round sprinkles for eyes and mouth, raisins for buttons, candy corn for the  nose.

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'REAL SNOW' SLUSH CONES
Collect some freshly fallen snow and scoop it into bowls. Put a few spoonfuls of frozen juice concentrate on top, and you have your own slush snow cones.

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“SNOW” COVERED DONUTS
Take 1 tube unbaked biscuits and separate. Cut or split crosswise. Heat oil in small pan. Fry the little biscuits like donuts until golden brown. After frying drain and then roll in powdered sugar 'snow.'

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FROZEN JUICE IGLOO BLOCKS
Have children pick their favorite drink (fruit punch, apple juice, etc) and then pour it into an ice cube tray.
Have kids write their name on a Popsicle stick and put it in the tray.
Last- PUT THIS OUTSIDE AND LET IT FREEZE (if it is not cold enough you can put it in the freezer)
When frozen---you have an igloo block for snack.

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POLAR BEAR CUPS

•  First put ice cream and then a layer of your choice of candy (M&M's, Kisses, Chocolate or Peanut Butter Chips.)
• Cover candy layer with Cool Whip and decorate it with gummy bears.
• Serve it in small-clear plastic cups for individual serving or  one big vat that everyone shares.
• Usually, children like to have their own.

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PEACH HALF IGLOO #1 

Ingredients:

•Canned peach halves
•Paper towels
•Small paper plates,
•Cool-whip type topping
•Coconut-optional
•Small graham cracker figures such as teddy bears or elves. This sample used 'Gummy Penguins'!

1. Pat dry the peach half-and put on paper place.
2. Cover the peach with the topping to resemble an igloo.
3. Sprinkle on the coconut.
4. Use the topping to "glue" the figure to the igloo. (Image by KidActivities.net)

IGLOOS #2

 

MARSHMALLOW  IGLOO
Ingredients-
1/2 an apple, orange, or canned peach half (KidActivities used a peach half)
Mini marshmallows
White frosting or marshmallow fluff
Optional: Pretzel rods broken into shorter pieces and small winter gummy animals or teddy grahams
Paper plates and plastic knives or spoons

1. Give each child a plate and piece of fruit. Spread the fruit entirely with the frosting or fluff.
3. Starting at the bottom of the fruit piece, entirely
cover the "igloo" with the mini-marshmallows.
4. If desired, add a chimney with a pretzel rod piece.Enjoy a while and then eat!

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NO-MELT SNOWBALLS
6 cups of crispy rice cereal
Stick of margarine
10 ounce bag of marshmallows
Powdered sugar
Melt margarine in a saucepan and stir in the marshmallows until smooth.
Stir in the Crispy Rice cereal.
After the mixture has cooled slightly, rub your hands with margarine or butter. Using your hands, form balls with the mixture.
Shake the balls in a zip-lock bag to coat with the confectioner's sugar.
Makes approximately 24 two-inch "snowballs".

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NO BAKE PEANUT BUTTER SNOWBALLS
Kids will have fun making these NO-BAKE nutty snowballs.

   • 1 1/2 cups peanut butter
   • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or margarine, softened
   • 1 box (16 ounces) confectioners’ sugar
   • 1 package (12 ounces) white chocolate chips
   • 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening
   • Confectioners’ sugar or edible glitter for dusting
Preparation Time: 1 hour plus chilling
Makes about 4 dozen

1. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter and butter until blended; add confectioners’ sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring after each addition.
2. Line a baking sheet with foil. Using your hands, shape peanut butter mixture into 1-inch balls. Place balls on prepared baking sheet; chill until firm, about 1 hour.
3. Place white chocolate and shortening in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on MEDIUM, stirring at 30-second intervals, until chocolate is melted and smooth (about 2 minutes).
4. Line a baking sheet with waxed paper. Using a spoon, dip each peanut butter ball into melted chocolate, spooning chocolate over ball to coat, if necessary.
Source: cookingvillage.com

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COCOA SNOWBALLS (No-bake; makes 5 dozen pieces)

Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar, 3/4 cup cocoa, 1 1/3 cups (14-ounce can) sweetened condensed milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 2 cups chopped walnuts, additional confectioners' sugar

Combine sugar and cocoa in mixing bowl and stir with spoon.  Add condensed milk and vanilla; blend until smooth. Stir in walnuts. Cover bowl tightly and chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes. After the 30 minutes, shape mixture into 1" balls. Next, roll them in confectioners' sugar.

Place balls in an airtight container and chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

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SNOW CREAM!!!
Have children collect clean snow in a large bowl. Add approximately one cup of milk, 1/2 cup of sugar and some vanilla extract. It will be about the same texture as a milkshake! This is really easy and the kids can do it themselves. Kids always love this one!

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TIP: BE SURE TO PURCHASE LOTS OF RITZ SNOWFLAKE CRACKERS DURING WINTER HOLIDAYS...You'll then have them to pull out for dips and spreads for later Winter Food Fun! (They're only in stores for the Holidays)

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PENGUIN COOKIE

 

How easy can this be? Kinda cute-kinda silly...but the kids will love him!

 Simply split an 'Oreo type' cookie in half. (The half with the frosting on it is the bottom of the penguin) Place 2 candy-corn for the feet with a bit of frosting...vamilla frosting was placed on the face to hold the nini-chocolate chip eyes and beak nose. A variety of other goodie choice can be used to embellish this little fellow...

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PEANUTBUTTER AND COCONUT SNOWFLAKES
Ingredients:
Peanut butter, hexagon shaped crackers,  coconut

Spread peanut butter on the crackers.
Sprinkle coconut over them...

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REINDEER FACE SANDWICH (1 slice bread)
Peanut butter
4 mini pretzels
4 raisins or m&m's
2 mini marshmallows
Maraschino cherries or red-hot cinnamon candies
Plates and knife

1. Cut bread in half from corner to corner, making two equal triangles.
2. Spread peanut butter over bread.
3. Decorate as follows:

• Place it in front of you, with the point facing you and the long side of triangle facing away from you. Place one mini pretzel on each upper corner for the antlers; two raisins in the center of each slice (the eyes) and one mini marshmallow for the nose...if you are making Rudolf, use a maraschino cherry or cinnamon candy -- on the tip of each short point nearest you for the nose). You now have two reindeer faces...

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REINDEER FOOD FOR KIDS

Ingredients:
   12 cups Crispix cereal
   1 bag (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate or butterscotch chips
   3/4 cup peanut butter
   1 cup powdered sugar

1. In a very large pot over low heat, melt peanut butter and chocolate chips, stirring frequently. (Or melt in micro wave)
2. Remove from heat and add cereal, stirring gently to coat well.
3. Add the powdered sugar, a bit at a time, and continue stirring until mixture is completely combined.

• Spread pieces on a cookie sheet or other clean, flat surface, separating them so they don't stick together.
• Allow to cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container until ready to serve.
• Makes about 12 1-cup servings.
• It goes very quickly once kids get over the appearance - it looks rather like dry pet food! Adapted from partyfood.suite101.com

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REINDEER COOKIE

Need: Nutter Butter Cookies, Peanut Butter, Raisins, Small Pretzel Twists, Red M & M Candies

Directions:
Place a small amount of peanut butter on the top of a Nutter Butter cookie.
Put a small pretzel twist on the peanut butter, letting it stick beyond the cookie for antlers.
Put two more dots of peanut butter and add raisins for eyes.
 Finally put a dot of peanut butter on the bottom part of the cookie and add a red M & M for a nose.

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ICE CREAM SNOWMAN
For each child place in a small paper bowl…
Two balls of Ice-cream to build a snowman. For the eyes, nose and mouth--choose from small pieces of banana, cherry, raisins, m&m's or ______ and place where indicated. You'll end up with a friendly, yummy snowman. This child-made snowman has a strawberry for his hat!

 

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SNOW CANDY #1 Ingredients:
2 cups of brown sugar, 3 tablespoons butter, 1/2 cup water.
Bring water with other ingredients to a rolling boil. (Boil for about 10 minutes)

Have children make a smooth place in clean snow - pour the snow candy on it. You can pour in any desired design or pictures. Don't touch until it has cooled.

IF THE SNOW ON THE GROUND BOTHERS YOU ---scoop up some clean snow and place it in a bowl or dish---you can also take the snow inside and make your candy there!

SNOW CANDY #2
If you use real Maple Syrup and boil it the same way, you get an all natural treat that doesn't require any measuring or mixing of ingredients. Fans of Laura Ingall Wilder may remember the author’s vivid descriptions of this candy: It is warm, buttery in flavor, gooey, and delicious when eaten outside while making a snow fort with your daddy.

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CHEX VANILLA CHUNKS
Snack mix with chocolate, peanuts, marshmallows and pretzels. Make it in minutes.

Start to Finish:50 min.
Makes:16 cups snack

Ingredients:
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (6 oz),
3 cups Corn Chex cereal
3 cups Rice Chex cereal
3 cups Wheat Chex cerea,
2 cups salted dry-roasted peanuts,
2 cups small pretzel twists, 2 cups miniature marshmallows,
1 package (20 oz) vanilla-flavored candy coating (almond bark)

1. Place chocolate chips in freezer to chill. In large bowl, mix cereals, peanuts, pretzels and marshmallows; set aside.
 
2. In large microwavable bowl, microwave candy coating uncovered on High 1 minute 30 seconds; stir, breaking up large chunks. Microwave about 30 seconds longer or until coating can be stirred smooth.
 
3. Gently and quickly fold cereal mixture into coating with rubber spatula, stirring gently until evenly coated.

Stir in chilled chocolate chips. Spread on waxed paper; cool completely, about 30 minutes. Break into chunks. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.
Betty Crocker Recipe

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 ICE CUBE SHAPED JELL-O

• Make Jello using only 1/2 of the recipe directed amount of water.
• Fill an ice cube tray with the Jello and refrigerate.
• Carefully pop out each "cube" with a knife.

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ANGEL FOOD SNOWSTORM CAKE (10 servings)

Ingredients: 1 Angel food or chiffon cake (purchased or homemade), 1 carton (14 oz.) thawed frozen whipped topping, 2 2/3 cups flaked coconut.

1. Place cake in center of serving plate.

2. Frost cake with whipped toppoing using a spatula.

Sprinkle the frosted cake with coconut. Refrigerate until serving time. Store leftovers in refrigerator.

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SNOWBALL DESSERT
Ingredients:
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup powdered sugar
3/4 cup chopped cookie crumbs or miniature chocolate chips
Powdered sugar for rolling

Combine cream cheese, butter and vanilla In a mixing bowl. Cream together.
Add in powdered sugar. Blend.
Stir in cookie crumbs.
Shape into a ball.
Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap and scatter powdered sugar over the top.
Place dessert ball on top of sugar and roll ir around to coat entire ball. Wrap up in plastic wrap and chill several hours.

Serve with graham crackers, plain vanilla cookies or shortbread cookies.

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CHERRIES IN THE SNOW
1 large angel food cake
1 (16 oz.) tub whipped topping
1 can of cherry pie filling
1 9x13 in (23x32.5 cm) pan

Scrape the light brown crust off the cake.
Tear the angel food cake into pieces and line the bottom of the pan. Place whipped topping on top of the cake pieces.
Use a spoon to place cherry pie filling on top of the whipped topping. Chill for a few hours.

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BEVERAGES

  KID’S CRANBERRY CITRUS PUNCH
1 (12-ounce) can frozen cranberry concentrate, 31/2 cups fresh orange juice, 1 liter lemon-lime soda
     •Combine all ingredients in a pitcher. Divide into smaller pitchers for easy serving. Serve over ice. Source: Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee

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WARM APPLE ORANGE PUNCH
1 gallon (4 qt.) apple cider
About a cup of orange juice
Orange slices a nice touch...
2- 4 cinnamon sticks

1. Place all ingredients in large saucepan. Cook on low heat 20 min. or until heated through, stirring occasionally. (Do not boil.) 2. Can also be made in crock pot…
3. Remove cinnamon sticks and serve warm. Float orange slices...
Great for the Holidays and winter Days!

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*Another version made with Chrystal Light is in 'Apple Snacking and Cooking Category. 

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POLAR ICE CAP 
Ingredients:
Blue Kool-aid (prepared as directed),
Ginger ale
Vanilla ice cream
Clear glass
Straw
Directions:
1) Put the Kool-aid and ginger ale in the refrigerator until they are cold.
2) Fill a glass almost halfway with blue Kool-aid.
3) Add ginger ale almost to the top of the glass.
4) Drop in one big scoop of vanilla ice cream.
5) Enjoy your "North Pole" drink with a straw! Source: perpetualpreschool.com

There are also Fall and/or Winter Beverages at the page bottom of Smoothies, Coolers and Yummy Drinks  and  'Hot Cocoa

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Returrn to... Page 1 (Cool Weather/Autumn snacks)

Page 2 (Cool Weather/Autumn Snacks)

Page 3  (Winter Snacks) This page)

Looking for other fall and winter food ideas? Be sure to check out the various Theme and Holiday Categories'! Every Seasonal and Holiday Theme category has recipes!  You may also be interested in...

•Snowman Themed Snacks

•Reindeer Themed Snacks 

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 Cocoa 'Gift Ideas' are page bottom...

 

WHEN IT'S COLD, COLD, COLD...Help kids plan a comfy-warm Cocoa Party!

You could add a movie (an old favorite or something just released.) Make popcorn or have cookies and set up a hot chocolate bar where everyone can add marshmallows, chocolate sprinkles, whipped cream, and maybe a dusting of cinnamon to cups of cocoa. Extension Idea: Consider adding a pajama party! Have kids wear PJ's and lounge on pillows and blankets as they watch a movie. (Don't forget favorite stuffed animals!)

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FANCY UP THAT HOT CHOCOLATE MIX!!!
Making plain hot chocolate from a mix? Consider the following:

• Garnish your cocoa with a candy cane which can double as a stirrer.
• Top with whipped cream and colored sprinkles!
• Top with whipped cream, cherry and chocolate sauce.
• Make a "Milky Way" drink by adding caramel topping.
• Place chocolate chips in the bottom of a clear glass mug. Add steaming hot milk and stir the melted chocolate.
• Top hot cocoa with whipped cream and cinnamon.
• Drop a scoop of peppermint ice cream into a mug of hot chocolate.
• Put two large marshmallows in the bottom of an empty cup and pour hot chocolate on top so that the marshmallows melt. Serve with graham crackers to make s'mores in a cup. Source: amazingmoms.com

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TIPS FOR A 'CROWD' OF COCOA LOVERS!
1.  Purchase an inexpensive 'party coffee pot' for 35 cups or more; pre-make the hot chocolate. Just fill the pot with water--get it hot--add the mix.
2.  For a larger group you'll need 2 pots or add a couple air pots to keep it warm as it's made.
3.  Don't use any mix with marshmallows already in it; the spout of the coffee pot may clog!
4.  You can also use the pots for warm apple cider at other times! (To use this method-don't use a pot that has been often used to make coffee; the coffee tasted may linger.)

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FEELING CREATIVE? Try some of the following yummy recipes!

MAKE SNOWMAN SOUP (See 'Hot Cocoa Gift and Poem Ideas' at page bottom) 
Put hot chocolate mix in a cup.
Add hot water and mix.
Put in two Hershey kisses…stir again.
To cool off add an ice cube and then two or three marshmallows for the snowballs.
A Candy cane would a nice touch as stirrer.

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Before we start we 'traditional cocoa ideas' try this wonderful NUTELLA COCOA! If you like Nutella-you'll love this!

NUTELLA HOT COCOA! Yummm...

Ingredients:
1 Tablespoon of Nutella for 'each cup' of milk (whole milk tastes best)
Whipped cream or Marshmallows
Optional: Sprinkle of Cinnamon'
1. Heat milk in sauce pan or microwave. When hot---stir/whisk in the Nutella until all is combined
2. Pour into cups and top with mini-marshmallows or whipped cream 
3. Optional: Sprinkle with a little cinnamon

NOTE: Nutella hot chocolate is like regular hot chocolate-but with a bit of hazelnut taste. You can also reheat in microwave or again on stove-top after being refrigerated.

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RECIPES USING HERSHEY'S  COCOA
Basic Ingredients:
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup Hershey's Cocoa
Dash salt
1/3 cup hot water
4 cups (1 qt.) milk
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Miniature marshmallows or sweetened whipped cream(optional)

Directions:
1. Stir together sugar, cocoa and salt in medium saucepan; stir in water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil. Boil and stir 2 minutes. Add milk; stirring constantly, heat to serving temperature. Do Not Boil a second time.
2. Remove from heat; add vanilla. Beat with rotary beater or whisk until foamy. Serve topped with marshmallows or whipped cream, if desired. Five 8-oz. servings.

VARIATIONS TO THE ABOVE: Add one of the following with the vanilla extract...

•SPICED COCOA: 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Serve with cinnamon stick, if desired.
• MINT COCOA: 1/2 teaspoon mint extract OR 3 tablespoons crushed hard peppermint candy OR 2 to 3 tablespoons white crème de menthe. (At home-for adults only) Serve with peppermint candy stick, if desired.
• CITRUS COCOA: 1/2 teaspoon orange extract OR 2 to 3 tablespoons orange liqueur. (Again-for adults only)
• SWISS MOCHA: 2 to 2-1/2 teaspoons powdered instant coffee.
• COCOA AU LAIT: Omit marshmallows or whipped cream. Spoon 2 tablespoons softened vanilla ice cream on top of each cup of cocoa at serving time. SLIM-TRIM COCOA: Omit sugar. Combine cocoa, salt and water; substitute nonfat milk. Proceed as above. With vanilla, stir in sugar substitute with sweetening equivalence of 1/2 cup sugar.
• CANADIAN COCOA: 1/2 teaspoon maple extract.
• MICROWAVE SINGLE SERVING: Combine 1 heaping teaspoon Hershey's Cocoa, 2 heaping teaspoons sugar and dash salt in microwave-safe cup or mug. Add 2 teaspoons cold milk; stir until smooth. Fill cup with milk. Microwave at HIGH (100%) 1 to 1-1/2 minutes or until hot. Stir to blend. Source: Hersheys.com

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EASY RASBERRY COCOA MIX
Ingredients:
3 cups instant hot cocoa mix
1 package unsweetened raspberry-flavored kool-aid mix
Combine all ingredients in a container that seals/closes tightly.
Shake until well blended.
 Store in an airtight container.
To serve: Stir 2 heaping tablespoons into a mug of hot water.

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HOMEMADE HOT COCOA MIX #1 
Ingredients:
3 c. non-fat dry milk powder
1/2 c. cocoa
1 c. sugar
Dash of salt
Thoroughly combine all ingredients.
Will make mix for 24 servings.
Can be stored in airtight container for two months.
For one serving - 3 heaping teaspoons and 1/2 cup hot water.
Source: cooks.com

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MAKE HOT COCOA MIX #2 
Ingredients:
2 lbs. can Nestle Quick powder
1/2 c. cocoa
2 c. powdered sugar
1/2 to 1 c. granulated sugar
7 c. powdered milk
2 1/2 c. Coffeemate
Sift all ingredients together. Makes 1 gallon of mix.
To make hot chocolate: put 1/4 cup mix to 1 cup hot water.
Source: cooks.com

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CHOCOLATE SWIZZLE NOG
A steaming mug of a rich, whipped cream-topping treat.
Makes 8 servings
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
1 (14-ounce) can EAGLE BRAND® Sweetened Condensed Milk (NOT evaporated milk)
4 cups milk
4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or peppermint extract
Whipped cream or whipped topping

• In medium-sized saucepan, combine EAGLE BRAND®, milk and cocoa.
• Heat thouroughly, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
• Stir in vanilla or peppermint extract.
• Serve warm in mugs; top with whipped cream or whipped topping.
  Source: eaglebrand.com

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A FAVORITE HOT COCOA
Ingredients:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup hot water
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
4 cups milk
1/8 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix cocoa, sugar, water and salt in a saucepan.

• Over medium heat, stir constantly until mixture boils.
• Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
• Stir in the milk and heat, but do not boil.
• Remove from heat and add vanilla; blend well.
• Serve immediately.
  Makes 4 servings.

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PUMPKIN SPICE HOT COCOA

Serves six
6 cups of milk
6 packets of powdered hot chocolate OR ½ lb. of dark chocolate bits
1 1/2 tbsp. pumpkin pie spice
Lots of whipped cream
Cinnamon

Heat milk to almost boiling. Place hot chocolate mix into mugs and thoroughly mix in ¼ T of pumpkin pie spice in each cup. Pour in hot milk and stir well. Load on the whip cream. Sprinkle cinnamon on top. Recipe and photo thanks to No Fuss Fabulous!

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MEXICAN HOT CHOCOLATE
Ingredients:
1/4 cup cocoa and 1/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
dash salt
1 quart milk (4 cups), divided
1/4 cup half-and-half
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

In a small bowl, combine cocoa, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Heat 1 cup of milk in a saucepan until bubbling.
Stir in cocoa mixture and whisk until smooth.
Bring to a boil over low heat, stirring constantly.
Source: Diana Rattray

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SNOWY WHITE HOT COCOA
Ingredients:
1 ½ tablespoons white-chocolate instant pudding mix
1 cup milk
Whipped cream
Combine pudding mix and milk in a microwaveable mug.
Heat  in the microwave for 60 seconds on high.
Top with whipped cream and/or crushed candy canes, if desired.
Source: Family Fun Magazine, Dec/04

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HOLIDAY COCOA
A spoonful of marshmallow creme tops steaming homemade cocoa with rich chocolate flavor and a hint of spice.
Start to Finish:15 min... Makes 6 servings (about 3/4 cup each)
Ingredients:
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened baking cocoa
1/3 cup water
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
4 cups milk
3/4 cup marshmallow creme
1. In 2-quart saucepan, heat sugar, cocoa, water, cinnamon and nutmeg over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is smooth. Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer 4 minutes, stirring constantly.
2. Stir in milk. Heat over low heat. Pour cocoa into 6 mugs. Top each with 2 tablespoons marshmallow creme. Source: bettycrocker.com

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HAPPY HOLIDAY GOURMET HOT COCOA
Ingredients:

8 cups dry instant skim milk
4 3/4 cups powdered sugar (note: can use 1/2 Splenda & 1/2 icing/confectioners sugar)
1 3/4 cups cocoa
1 1/2 cup Light non-dairy creamer
1 small package Low-fat instant chocolate pudding mix
1 box of 12 candy canes, pulverized
Combine above ingredients in a large mixing bowl and fold together well-- or place into a food processor and mix to make it a fine powder.
To Serve:
Mix 2 tablespoons in a mug of hot water, top with marshmallows ...can put a candy cane in cup as stirrer... Source: celebrating-christmas.com

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CANDY CANE (Hot Chocolate) MINT FLOAT   
Ingredients:

3/4  cup (6 oz.) prepared hot chocolate
1/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2  cup  Mint Chip Ice Cream
Whipping cream, whipped
Mint candy cane, crushed
(OK...If you're an adult loking for a yummy holiday drink--you can add 2 tablespoons peppermint schnapps or creme de cocao liqueur instead of the extract)
 
In large  mug, pour hot chocolate and extract or liqueur; stir to mix. Spoon ice cream into hot chocolate mixture. Top with whipped cream and sprinkle of candy..Or top with whipped cream and a peppermint candy cane or stick. Yumm...
Makes 1 serving...

TIP: For 4 servings, use 3 cups (24 oz.) hot chocolate, 1/2 cup liqueur or 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract and 1 carton (14 fl. oz.) of ice cream. Follow directions above.

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EXTRA RICH FLAVORED COCOA
The secret ingredient in this mix is the mini chocolate chips, which melts when combined with the boiling water and give the cocoa an extra-rich flavor. Ingredients:
2 cups nonfat dry milk powder
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1/2 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup powdered nondairy creamer
1/8 teaspoon salt
1. Measure all of the ingredients into a mixing bowl and whisk them until they are evenly blended.
2. Store the mix in a tightly covered container at room temperature until you're ready to use. Makes about 4 cups of mix.
3. Spoon 3 or 4 generous tablespoons of cocoa mix into your cup (depending on the size), add boiling water, and stir well.

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Not 'Cocoa 'but sounds fun for you at home!  PEPPERMINT PATTY MOCHA
Ingredients: 1 small (1-1/2 inch) YORK Peppermint Pattie
1 to 2 teaspoons milk
hot coffee
Whipped cream(optional)
 
Directions:
1. Unwrap candy and cut into quarters; place in large microwave-safe mug. Add milk.
2. Microwave at HIGH (100%) 30 seconds or until candy is melted and smooth when stirred. Stir in hot coffee until mug is almost full.
3. Top with whipped cream, if desired. Serve immediately. 1 serving.

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HOMEMADE MARSHMALLOWS ...Your kids may like to try this cooking activity!

Ingredients:
3 tablespoons (3 packets) powdered gelatin*
2 cups cold water
2 cups sugar
2 egg whites
2 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted, plus more for dusting pan and marshmallows
Butter, for greasing pan

• In a medium sized saucepan soak the gelatin in the cold water.
• After the gelatin has softened, approximately 10 minutes, add the regular sugar and then gently dissolve over low heat, approximately 8 minutes.
• Remove from the heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
• In a mixer, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks and then fold in the sifted confectioners' sugar.
• While the mixer is on low, slowly pour in the cooled gelatin mixture. Increase the speed and beat until white and thick. The volume should double in size and should form between soft and firm peaks.

Line an 8 by 8-inch baking dish with high sides with foil; grease slightly with butter and coat with confectioners' sugar. Alternatively, you can use a baking sheet, but the marshmallows will not be as tall. Pour marshmallow mixture in and top with more sifted confectioners' sugar. Leave out overnight or for at least 3 hours to set. The marshmallow should be light and spongy when set. (Loosen marshmallow from edges of tray and invert onto a large cutting board. Peel off foil and use a large knife to cut the marshmallows into cubes. Dredge each piece in confectioners' sugar.
(Yep, reading it again-there's some work to it!) Source: foodnetwork.com

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MAKE 'PEPPERMINT WHIPPED CREAM' FOR HOT CHOCOLATE...

1. Buy peppermint candy canes or peppermint round candies. Using a blender, crush them to powder.

2. Using either 16 oz. of 'Cool Whip' or your own whipped--whipping cream-- use a 1/2 cup of powdered peppermint candy.

3. Stir the crushed candy into the cream topping. It makes a fun pink cream and the tiny chunks that didn't crush add to the yummy!

4. Top each mug of cocoa with one or two spoonfuls of peppermint pink topping.

Notes:
To store left over cream, put into freezer baggies or a freezing container; freeze until needed again.
To thaw--place in refrigerator.
To store leftover peppermint powder--place in a plastic bag or covered container. Be sure to check out the 'Candy Cane and Peppermint Goodies and Ideas Category!

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COCOA MIX GIFT #1  FOR A WINTER DAY...

Materials:
Small glass jar (baby food size)
1 serving of hot cocoa mix
About 1/4 cup of small marshmallows
4-inch or larger fabric scrap (depending on the size of your jar)
18" length of ribbon
Glue
Hershey Kiss candy
Small wrapped candy cane
Card

Directions:
Clean the jar and dry it well. Measure a one-cup serving of the hot cocoa mix into the jar. Fill the jar to the top with small marshmallows. . Cut the fabric scrap into a circle. Center the fabric circle on top of the jar lid. Tie the ribbon around the edge. Glue the Hershey Kiss on top of the fabric cover. Glue the candy cane to the side of the jar. Write a personal note and draw a candy cane or other symbol on the card.

Include simple directions such as the following:
"Here's a little gift to warm you up on a cold afternoon. Simply pour this jar of cocoa mix into a mug filled with 6 to 8 oz. of hot water. Top with marshmallows and drop in the Hershey Kiss. Stir with the candy cane and enjoy!"

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COCOA GIFT #2 (SNOWMAN SOUP) WITH POEMS

Place in a clear plastic bag...
1 individual pack hot chocolate mix
3 Hershey's chocolate kisses
10-15 mini-marshmallows
1 small candy cane

Add one of the following poems...

COCOA POEM #1
When the weather outside is frightful,
Snowman Soup can be delightful.
May it warm your spirit and your soul.
Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow!

When you feel a chill or 'burrrrrr',
Use the peppermint stick to stir.
Add hot water and sip it slow.
Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow.
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POEM #2 When it's so cold that you holler and whoop,
It's time to bring out the Snowman Soup!

Pour the packet in a mug. Add marshmallows too.
And throw in these kisses that are special just for you.

Now add some hot water and use the cane to stir it.
Sip slowly and soon you'll feel the warm winter spirit!
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COCOA POEM #3

A little cup of cocoa, I'm sending your way,
For you to sip and enjoy, On some cold winter day.

As you sip this cocoa, it's warmth will warm your heart...
Just like our friendship warmed mine, Right from the very start.

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HOW ABOUT MAKING 'CHOCOLATE SPOONS' for a yummy hot cocoa addition (for yourself or cocoa gift?!) These are nice!
For 12 spoons need:
1 cup (6 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips and 12 heavy-duty plastic spoons in winter colors 

Melt the chocolate in the microwave. Stsart at about 2 minutes and then keep checking. You don't want to burn the chocolate. Dip the spoons into the chocolate...allow the spoons to cool slightly, then dip them in the chocolate again. Repeat until chocolate reaches the desired thickness on the spoon. If a gift---after the spoons are cool, wrap them in gift cellophane and tie with a ribbon or yarn. Wonderful for coffee and hot chocolate...

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PEPPERMINT CANDY SPOONS...

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 candy cane or 5 peppermint candies, crushed
12 heavy-duty plastic spoons in Christmas colors

1.  Put candy in a baggie and crush with a rolling pin.
2.  Melt chocolate.
3.  Dip spoons into chocolate to fill.
4.  Sprinkle with crushed candy.
5.  Place on waxed paper covered cookie sheet to cool.
Wrap with cellophane and tie with ribbons for gifts.

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HAVE FUN WITH MORE WINTER PAGES!

• Winter Arts and Crafts
• Winter Inside Games
• Winter Outside Snow Games
• Random Winter Ideas
• Snowman Themed Games...
• Snowman Themed Arts and Crafts
• Miscellaneous Snowman Ideas
• Snowman Themed Snacks 
• Reindeer Theme
• Snowflake Theme
• Candy Cane Ideas and Goodies 

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