Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Workspace:
Before you start cooking, line a baking sheet or countertop with parchment or wax paper. This is where you’ll drop your cookies to cool and set.

2. Combine Butter, Sugar, and Milk:
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the butter, granulated sugar, and cold milk. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly as the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.

3. Bring to a Boil:
Once the mixture begins to simmer, bring it to a rolling boil. Boil for exactly one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This step is crucial! Boiling for too little or too long can affect the texture of the cookies.

4. Remove from Heat:
After one minute, remove the pot from heat immediately.

5. Add Peanut Butter and Vanilla:
Stir in the peanut butter and vanilla extract while the mixture is still hot. The heat will melt the peanut butter, creating a smooth and creamy consistency.

6. Mix in the Oats:
Gradually add the quick-cooking oats to the pot, stirring until all oats are coated in the peanut butter mixture. The dough should be thick and sticky.

7. Drop and Shape Cookies:
Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared parchment paper. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon if desired, or leave them as is for a more rustic look.

8. Let Them Cool:
Allow the cookies to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes. They will firm up as they cool.

9. Enjoy!
Once the cookies are firm, peel them off the parchment paper and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Tips for Perfect No-Bake Cookies:

• Boiling Time: Timing is everything! Boil for exactly 60 seconds. Too short, and the cookies will be too soft; too long, and they may become dry and crumbly.
• Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter for smooth cookies or crunchy peanut butter if you like added texture.
• Oats: Quick-cooking oats are essential. Old-fashioned oats won’t soften properly, and instant oats can make the cookies mushy.
• Add-Ins: For extra flavor, stir in a handful of chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.
• Consistency: If the dough seems too runny, add a few extra tablespoons of oats. If it’s too dry, mix in a little more melted peanut butter.

Variations to Try:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the sugar and milk mixture before boiling.
• Nut-Free Version: Substitute sunflower seed butter or almond butter for a peanut-free alternative.
• Healthier Option: Swap out half the sugar for honey or maple syrup, and use natural peanut butter without added sugar.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate nostalgic experience.
• Crumble over ice cream for a fun twist on a sundae.
• Pack a few in lunchboxes or for road trips as a sweet pick-me-up.

Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese Stack

Looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that’s packed with flavor? This Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese Stack combines layers of rich, meaty bolognese sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti to create a dish that’s both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this twist on classic spaghetti bolognese is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

• 500g spaghetti
• 500g ground beef
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 400g canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (grated)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar

A sweet and savory delight, these Bacon Wrapped Smokies with Brown Sugar are the perfect party appetizer or game-day snack. The combination of crispy bacon and caramelized brown sugar makes every bite irresistible. Simple to prepare yet big on flavor, these smokies are guaranteed to be a crowd favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of little smokies sausages
• 1 pound of bacon (cut into thirds)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wrap each little smoky with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
3. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the wrapped smokies.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the sugar is caramelized.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!