Category: quick and easy recipe

Do I know why these are called Congo Bars? I do not. But what I do know is that they’re an utterly irresistible thick and chewy bar loaded with two kinds of chocolate and plenty of brown sugar and butter flavor. Imagine if a blondie and a chocolate chip cookie had a baby and then you upped the chocolate a bit for good measure – you’d have these. They’re soft, they’re just gooey enough, and they’re an absolute classic.

These bars have staying power but they’re actually a vintage recipe. Congo Bars were common in church cookbooks and grandmas’ kitchens for decades and they taste every bit as good today. That’s generally a good sign that they’re perfect for things like bake sales and potlucks and parties, but I certainly don’t mind just having a tray sitting out on my own kitchen counter as an afternoon pick-me-up. (No one else in my family has complained about that either.)

Other pros? They’re easy to make. It’s a one-bowl batter where you simply cream together some butter and brown sugar before adding in eggs, vanilla, flour, etc, and then both milk chocolate chips and semi-sweet chocolate chunks. The two kinds of chocolate melt a bit differently and help ensure that you get a good hit of chocolate in every single bite but that it’s not just sweet, sweet, sweet.

These are like everything you love about a chocolate chip cookie, but richer and with a thicker, chewier bite. They’re a go-to dessert bar – easy to love, easy to make, easy to rely on.

Congo Bars

Yield(s): Yield 24 bars

10m prep time

30m cook time

4.5

Rated by 364 reviewers

Allergens: Eggs, Milk

Diet: Vegetarian

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Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, at room temperature
• 2 cups brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chunks
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and grease with nonstick spray. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.
3. Add eggs, vanilla, salt, and baking powder and mix to combine, scraping down the sides of the bowl.
4. Reduce mixer to low, then add flour. Mix until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chunks and chocolate chips.
6. Transfer dough to prepared pan and spread out with a rubber spatula. Bake until edges are set, about 30 minutes. Center will seem slightly underbaked and gooey.
7. Let cool in pan 5 minutes before removing and allowing to cool completely. Once cool, slice and serve. Enjoy!

Susan Drees won third place in our “Sure Thing” Potluck Recipe Contest with her Corn Casserole recipe. She says, “This is the one casserole I always serve at potlucks and Thanksgiving. It’s quick to make, tastes great, and leftovers reheat wonderfully.” Now you can try it for yourself!

Susan’s recipe uses canned corn, cream-style corn, Jiffy corn muffin mix, sour cream, melted butter, and cheddar cheese. It’s a great side – both sweet and savory and very easy to enjoy!

Corn Casserole by Susan Drees

4.5

Rated by 795 reviewers

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you’re making mealtime meaningful.

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Ingredients

• 1 (15.25 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 (14.75 oz) can cream-style corn
• 1 (8 oz) package Jiffy corn muffin mix
• 1 cup sour cream (can use light)
• 6 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
3. In a large bowl stir together corn, cream-style corn, corn muffin mix, sour cream, and melted butter. Stir in cheese. Pour into casserole dish.
4. Bake, uncovered, 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until set in middle and toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
5. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Homemade Turkish Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 600 grams flour (Adjust if needed, approximately 140 grams more)
• 500 ml warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon dry yeast

For the Surface:

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• Sesame seeds

Instructions:

Preparing the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Create a well in the center.
2. Dissolve the dry yeast in warm water and pour it into the well in the flour mixture.

Kneading the Dough:

1. Mix the ingredients gradually, incorporating the flour from the sides of the well into the liquid. Knead until you form a soft, smooth dough. If the dough is too watery or sticky, add more flour gradually until it reaches the right consistency.

Allowing the Dough to Rise:

1. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Preheating the Oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).

Preparing the Surface and Baking:

1. In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk and yogurt to create the glaze.
2. Divide the risen dough into equal-sized portions and shape them into oval or round loaves.
3. Place the loaves onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the surface of the loaves with the egg yolk and yogurt glaze.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the glazed loaves.

Baking the Bread:

1. Put the baking sheet with the loaves into the preheated oven.
2. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cooling and Serving:

1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.
2. Once cooled, slice and serve this delicious homemade Turkish bread with your favorite dishes! 

No-Bake Chocolate Cake in 5 Minutes

Ingredients:

• 500g biscuits
• 120g sugar
• 250ml milk
• 2-3g vanilla sugar
• 150g butter
• 60g cocoa powder
• 140g chocolate (chopped)
• Toppings (as desired)

 Instructions:

1. Crush biscuits into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
2. In a saucepan, combine sugar, milk, vanilla sugar, butter, cocoa powder, and chopped chocolate. Heat gently, stirring until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat, add crushed biscuits. Mix until well combined.
4. Press the mixture firmly into a lined cake pan.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
6. Garnish with your favorite toppings before serving.
7.  Dive into this quick and decadent chocolate delight! Share your joy with friends and savor every bite!

Apple Cinnamon Cookies Recipe

These Apple Cinnamon Cookies are a delightful treat with a soft, chewy texture and a burst of apple flavor. With the added touch of cinnamon, they make for a perfect snack or dessert. Simple to bake and wonderfully comforting, these cookies are a must-try! Perfect for any occasion, they combine the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, creating a delicious and easy-to-make cookie.

Preparation Time:

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

Wet Ingredients:

• 2 eggs (room temperature)
• 100 grams (1/2 cup or 3.5 oz) sugar
• 100 grams (3.5 oz) butter (softened)

Dry Ingredients:

• 320-340 grams plain flour (2 1/4 – 2 1/2 cups), add gradually
• 14 grams (3 teaspoons) baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Add-ins:

• 2 apples, peeled and diced
• Optional: cinnamon for dusting

For Dusting:

• Icing sugar
• Optional: cinnamon (for mixing with icing sugar)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
3. Add Apples:
   • Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed in the dough.
4. Shape the Cookies:
   • Drop spoonful’s of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
6. Cool and Dust:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
   • Dust with icing sugar, and optionally, a sprinkle of cinnamon mixed with the icing sugar for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Great as a sweet treat for parties or gatherings.

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure the butter is softened for easy mixing and a tender texture.
• Adjust the amount of flour as needed to get the right consistency; the dough should be thick but manageable.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Apples: Add fiber and vitamin C.
• Butter and Eggs: Provide richness and protein.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian: Yes
• Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based butter and milk.

Nutritional Facts:

• Calories: 150 per cookie
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 3g

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon.
• Simple to make and perfect for any time of day.
• Versatile and customizable with optional cinnamon dusting.
• Perfect balance of flavors and textures for a satisfying treat.

Conclusion:

These Apple Cinnamon Cookies are a scrumptious treat that brings together the flavors of apples and cinnamon in a delightful cookie form. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they’re sure to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Enjoy every bite of these delicious and comforting cookies. Perfect for any occasion, they are a delightful addition to your baking collection.

Super Creamy Desserts: No Condensed Milk, No Gelatin, No Cream Cheese!

There’s something truly magical about creating a dessert that’s not only mouthwateringly delicious but also incredibly creamy without relying on condensed milk, gelatine, or cream cheese. Our Super Creamy Dessert is a delightful concoction of caramel, pudding, and Castella cake that will leave your taste buds dancing. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special.

A Brief History of Creamy Desserts

Creamy desserts have long been a staple in culinary traditions around the world. From the rich custards of France to the delicate puddings of England, these desserts have been beloved for their luxurious textures and comforting flavors. Our recipe takes inspiration from these classics but with a modern twist that avoids some of the more common ingredients, making it suitable for a wider range of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Caramel:

• 5.29 oz sugar
• 0.81 tsp water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Pudding:

• 1 egg yolk
• 3 eggs
• 2.12 oz sugar
• 1.35 cups milk
• 1 tbsp vanilla (optional)

For the Castella Cake:

• 1 egg white
• 1 egg
• 1.23 oz sugar
• 1.06 oz flour

Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Make Caramel

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine 5.29 oz sugar, 0.81 tsp water, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Stir gently to combine.
2. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Allow the sugar to dissolve without stirring. As the mixture heats, it will begin to bubble and change color.
3. Watch for Color Change: Once the sugar syrup begins to turn a light amber color, reduce the heat to low. This process can take a few minutes, so be patient and keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
4. Spread the Caramel: Tilt the saucepan carefully to spread the caramel evenly. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to deepen the color and flavor, then remove from heat.
5. Pour and Cool: Carefully pour the hot caramel into your pudding cups, coating the bottom evenly. Set the cups aside to cool while you prepare the pudding.

How to Make Pudding

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture: Separate one egg yolk from the white, reserving the white for later use. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 egg yolk, 3 whole eggs, and 2.12 oz sugar. Whisk together until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy.
2. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in 1.35 cups milk, continuing to whisk until all ingredients are fully incorporated. If using, add 1 tbsp vanilla for extra flavor.
3. Strain the Mixture: To ensure a smooth texture, strain the pudding mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a jug. This will remove any bits of egg or foam that might create an uneven texture.
4. Remove Foam: Use a spoon to skim off any foam that has risen to the top of the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a silky-smooth pudding.
5. Pour into Cups: Carefully pour the pudding mixture over the caramel in your prepared cups. Fill each cup nearly to the top.

How to Make Castella Cake

1. Beat the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 egg white, 1 whole egg, and 1.23 oz sugar. Using an electric hand mixer on medium-low speed, beat the mixture for about 2 minutes until it becomes foamy. Increase the speed and continue beating for another 4 minutes until the mixture forms stiff peaks and turns a pale yellow color.
2. Fold in the Flour: Sift 1.06 oz flour into the beaten egg mixture. Gently fold the flour in with a spatula until fully incorporated, being careful not to deflate the batter.
3. Layer the Batter: Scoop the Castella cake batter on top of the pudding mixture in your cups. Spread it evenly with a spatula.

Baking and Finishing

1. Prepare the Water Bath: Place the filled cups in a baking tray. Pour hot water into the tray, filling it halfway up the sides of the cups. This water bath will help the desserts cook evenly and gently.
2. Bake: Preheat your oven to 160ºC (320ºF). Carefully transfer the baking tray to the oven and bake for 28 minutes or until the tops of the desserts are golden brown.
3. Cool and Serve: Remove the baking tray from the oven and take the cups out of the water bath. Let them cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
4. Optional Serving Suggestion: These desserts can also be served warm. For an extra touch of elegance, serve with a side of black coffee.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 328 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 59g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0.01g
• Cholesterol: 178mg
• Sodium: 87mg
• Potassium: 172mg
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Sugar: 54g
• Vitamin A: 349IU
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 108mg
• Iron: 1mg

Conclusion

Indulge in the luxurious flavors and textures of our Super Creamy Desserts. Perfectly balancing the sweetness of caramel, the silkiness of pudding, and the lightness of Castella cake, this dessert is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy it chilled or warm, and don’t forget to pair it with a robust black coffee for the ultimate experience.

Chocolate Banana Oatmeal Bake

Ingredients

120 g (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) oat flakes
200 ml (5/6 cup) hot milk
2 eggs
2 bananas
Vanillin (a pinch)
40 g (1/2 cup) bitter cocoa
1 teaspoon baking powder
Walnuts (as desired)
Chocolate chips (as desired)
100 g (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp) chocolate
40 ml (3 tbsp) boiling milk

Directions

Prepare the Oats
Soak the Oats: In a bowl, combine 120 g of oat flakes with 200 ml of hot milk. Let it soak for 10 minutes.

Prepare the Batter
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mash 2 bananas until smooth. Add 2 eggs and a pinch of vanillin, and mix well.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Add 40 g of bitter cocoa and 1 teaspoon of baking powder to the banana mixture. Stir until well combined. Incorporate the soaked oats into the mixture.

Assemble the Bake
Prepare the Pan: Grease a baking pan with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Add Mix-ins: Fold in walnuts and chocolate chips as desired into the batter.

Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping
Melt the Chocolate: In a small bowl, combine 100 g of chocolate with 40 ml of boiling milk. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Serve
Finish the Bake: Remove the oatmeal bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the top.
Enjoy: Slice and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions
With Fresh Fruit: Pair with fresh berries or sliced fruit.
With Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
As a Snack: Enjoy on its own as a satisfying snack.

Cooking Tips
Ripe Bananas: Use ripe bananas for a naturally sweeter flavor.
Nut Options: Substitute walnuts with your favorite nuts like almonds or pecans

.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Nutritional Benefits
Oats: High in fiber and great for digestion.
Bananas: Provide potassium and natural sweetness.
Cocoa: Rich in antioxidants

.
Dietary Information
Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.

Orange and Yogurt Dessert: Ready in 5 Minutes Without an Oven!

Ingredients:

1 egg
2 tablespoons of sugar
2 tablespoons of cooking oil
1 pinch of salt
Finely grated orange zest
60 ml freshly squeezed orange juice
125 g solid yogurt or sour cream
280g flour
6 g of baking powder (1/2 sachet)
Sugar and vanilla sugar for rolling

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, beat the egg with the sugar and cooking oil until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add the pinch of salt, orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice to the bowl and mix well.
3. Add the solid yogurt or sour cream to the mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Add the sifted flour and baking powder to the bowl and mix until you obtain a soft and homogeneous dough.
5. Dust a work surface with flour and place the dough on it. Knead lightly until it forms a ball.
6. Divide the dough into small portions and form into walnut-sized balls.
7. In a plate, mix the sugar and vanilla sugar. Dip each ball of dough into this mixture so that they are evenly coated.
8. Place the dough balls on a tray or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to harden slightly.
9. Ready to enjoy! Serve these delicious orange and yogurt dough balls as a dessert or snack, and surprise your guests with their refreshing flavor and creamy texture.

Conclusion:

With its combination of citrus and cream flavors, this orange and yogurt dessert is a quick and delicious option to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, since it doesn’t require cooking, it’s perfect for those times when you’re looking for something quick and easy to prepare. Dare to try this recipe and let yourself be seduced by its fresh and tempting flavor!

Unlocking the Culinary Secret: Just Add Vinegar (9%)!

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Join me as we delve into the world of baking secrets passed down through generations. Today, I’ll let you in on a little-known tip that will revolutionize your baking game – the power of vinegar (9%)!

2. The Secret Ingredient Revealed

Why is vinegar (9%) the unsung hero of baking? Well, it’s all about chemistry! Vinegar not only adds a subtle tang to your baked treats but also interacts with other ingredients to create a light and airy texture. It’s like a magic wand for your dough, ensuring that every bite is a delight.

3. Unveiling the Recipe

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking! Here’s a rundown of the ingredients you’ll need:

• 2 cups of lukewarm milk
• 1 bag of dry yeast
• 2 small spoons of sugar
• 1 egg + 1 egg white
• 2 small spoons of vinegar (9%)
• 20 ounces of flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1.8 ounces of softened butter
• Additional butter for coating
• 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon of milk
• Sesame for sprinkling

4. The Art of Dough Preparation

Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of dough preparation. Follow these steps for dough perfection:

• Activate the Yeast: Start by heating the milk until lukewarm and dissolve yeast and sugar in it. Add eggs and vinegar, then gradually mix in the flour and salt until you achieve a soft dough.
• Incorporate Butter: Knead softened butter into the dough until smooth and non-sticky. Allow the dough to ferment until it triples in volume.

5. Mastering the Folding Technique

Creating layers in your dough is essential for that perfect flakiness. Follow these steps to master the folding technique:

• Butter Layers: Spread softened butter over the dough and fold it repeatedly to create layers, similar to puff pastry.
• Roll and Stretch: Roll out the dough into a large crust, ensuring to coat each surface with butter, then cut into pieces and shape into balls.

6. Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven and brush the pastry with egg yolk mixed with milk. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor and texture. Bake until golden brown and irresistible!

7. Serving Suggestions

Now that your baked goods are ready, it’s time to indulge! Serve these delights warm with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon treat. They’re also great for breakfast or as a snack on the go!