St. Patrick's Day Party Food and Fun!

This morning I presented a couple of segments on my local TV news Channel (KSL 5-SLC, UT) for a St. Patrick's Day Party! In this post, I will be sharing recipes that were spotlighted during the segments. For the Party Decor and Games, please visit THIS POST on my Creative Blog AdventuresofaBusyBee! Thanks for visiting both of my blogs!

First up is the largest food item that I showed this morning:

Shamrock Trifle

 This is a super easy St Patty's Day dessert! You could also easily substitute other flavors and shapes for other holidays during the year.

 

Pumpkin-Apple Cider

The Perfect Hot Drink for all your Fall and Winter Events!

Last week, my husband and I hosted a large gathering and I made this yummy cider to go along with the Pumpkin and Apple Theme I had planned for the Decor and Refreshments. It was a BIG hit and I had people asking me (begging me...haha) for the recipe. I technically didn't use a recipe, (as usual) I just threw things together! However, for the benefit of those that asked, plus those who will find this via the internet, I made it again in a large batch yesterday (for another event that I hosted in my home) and I kept track of how much of everything I added. 

 

It's so fast and easy to put together, I'm sure you'll fall in love with it as a host, and I can guarantee your guests will love it as well!

 

 

 

Can we thank Starbucks first off for creating a "Pumpkin Spice Latte" frenzy that spurred on an abundance of Pumpkin Spice Products?? **Applause** I don't ever drink coffee, but I sure do love Pumpkin Spice, so I'm thrilled that what seems to be the entire planet is so obsessed with "PSL" that food manufacturers are getting in on the act this season. Their creations mean more fun for me! 

 

Puffed Rice Possibilites!

Go Beyond Rice Krispies and try a new spin on the traditional favorite!

 

How? Use Chewy Puffed Rice in place of the Rice Krispies...You'll love the change, I promise! 

I developed some of these recipes for a cooking segment I did on a local TV program called "Studio 5" that airs here in UT, but the basic recipe has been in my repertoire of treats since I was a child. I don't know why my mom made "Rice Krispy Treats" with puffed rice instead of "Crisped" rice, all I know is that I loved it. And continued to love it as an adult, except that I added my favorite dessert extract to the mix...ALMOND. Oh yes, it takes the flavor sensation to a whole new level, my friends. 

One thing I really want to point out is that this mixture, vs. the traditional Rice Krispie treats, is REALLY soft and chewy. Additionally, the very malleable nature of it makes it very easy to form, mold and shape...even long after it is made. You really can't say the same thing about the traditional version.  Plus, it stays fresh for DAYS! I'm not kidding...I have some that I made last week to do my pics with, and it still tastes good 5 days later. It's soft and chewy still!

 

Here is a photo I took at the studio showing all of the things I demonstrated and talked about during the TV segment:

 

 

 As you can see, in addition to the "Basic" recipe, I created some other tasty treats and concoctions for the TV segment. They were a big hit with the staff and crew at the studio. I am including the recipes at the end of the post. And now....for your enjoyment....the goods:

 

First up: The "Faux-Nut". 

 

Quick and Easy Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle

Strawberry Cheesecake Trifle

• 1 Angel Food Cake, cubed and dried (250° oven for 30 minutes, or air-dry for 6 hours)
• 1 block Cream Cheese, softened
• 1 cup Greek Yogurt, Vanilla Flavor (if using regular yogurt, let it drain for an hour)
• 2/3 cup Powdered Sugar
• 1/2 cup flavored Liquid Creamer (I used Coldstone's Sweet Cream, but French Vanilla would be fine)
• 1 cup Whipped Cream (or use Cool Whip)
• 1 tsp Almond Extract
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla Bean Paste (or 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract)
• 2 lbs Strawberries, sliced
• 1/2 cup Sugar

1. Blend all ingredients except the Strawberries and regular sugar (and cake cubes) with a mixer until creamy
2. Gently fold in the cake cubes
3. Combine the strawberries with the sugar and allow to sit for at least 2 hours
4. Start with a layer of the berries, then a layer of the cake mixture
5. Repeat Layers
6. Garnish with fresh berries and whipped cream, if desired 

For additional Trifle Ideas and info, please visit my post here . To learn how to keep Strawberries and other berries fresh, make sure to read my AMAZING TIP here.  By the way, my favorite brand of Greek Yogurt is ZOI Brand! I hope you can find it because it's amazing!