Martha Stuart wannabe!

 

I love having people over to our house, even though it isn't the biggest or the newest, I am definitely not the greatest cook (working on becoming better though!) But something about growing up with my mom, who loved to host parties and was the best cook, it rubbed off on me. One thing I do love is setting up for company with all the details. If I did have the money, I would be tempted to buy all different matching place settings and dishes for all occasions, but I make do with what I still have from our wedding presents. Recently I got to host my good friend Katrina's shower. One of my favorite things was making the cupcakes for her! She recently had a beautiful baby girl, Ava Dae, so it was fun to use all of my favorite pinks.

Good bags for the guests!



<>

Found these on the martha stewart website, so easy and fun!





Summer treats-Strawberry Fudge Pie

Well, a friend today asked me what happened to my blog...non existent pretty much! Oh I meant well and it sounded fun, but I have been crafting all summer so over the next few days I promise to add these DIY crafts to show everyone! Here is one delicious summer recipe I tried for 4th of July, combining 2 of my favorite things, chocolate and strawberries. Here is the recipe!

Ingredients:

Refrigerated pie crust, 10.25 oz box of fudge brownie mix (plus ingredients on box), 8oz pkg of cream cheese, 1/4 C sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, 1 egg, fresh strawberries, hotfudge

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Place pie crust in 9-inch glass pie pan as directed on package for one-crust filled pie.
2.  In large bowl, combine all brownie layer ingredients; beat 50 strokes with spoon. Spread in bottom of crust-lined pan.
3. Bake at 350°F. for 30 to 35 minutes or until top is shiny and center is set. If necessary, cover edge of crust with strips of foil after 15 to 20 minutes of baking to prevent excessive browning. 
4.  Meanwhile, in small bowl, combine cream cheese, sugar, vanilla and 1 egg; beat until smooth. Working quickly, drop cream cheese mixture by small spoonfuls over partially baked brownies; carefully spread to cover brownie layer. Bake an additional 18 to 20 minutes or until cream cheese is set. Cool at least 1 hour.
5. Arrange strawberry halves, cut side down, over top of cream cheese layer. Refrigerate 1 hour or until serving time. Immediately before serving, place ice cream topping in small microwave-safe dish. Microwave on DEFROST for 45 seconds. Spoon into small resealable plastic bag; seal bag. Cut small hole in bottom corner of bag; squeeze bag to drizzle topping over pie. Store in refrigerator.

Enjoyed by all (except my picky husband:( Would be delicious with some vanilla icecream!