(Family Features) A snug sweater, a crackling fire and a meal that warms you from the inside out are perfect ways to spend a cool autumn evening with the people you love.

Gather around the table for a hearty meal featuring some of the most comforting flavors of fall – pumpkin, apple and cinnamon – plus a special ingredient: pierogies. Found in the frozen food aisle, Mrs. T’s Pierogies are stuffed with creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy goodness and other big, bold flavors – a comforting addition to this Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Mini Pierogies.

Available in 13 flavors, including 4 Cheese Medley, Loaded Baked Potato, Broccoli & Cheddar and other varieties in both full and mini sizes, they can be boiled, baked, sauteed, air fried and even grilled, making them a versatile addition to seasonal dishes of all kinds.

Plus, in honor of National Pierogy Day, you can enter for a chance to win items to get cozy –pierogy style. From getting comfy on the couch with pierogies to enjoying them in bed, you can win items inspired by these soft, pillowy, cheese-filled pasta pockets: like a plush robe or pierogy-shaped blanket. To enter, simply follow @mrstspierogies on Instagram, like the sweepstakes post and comment your favorite way to get cozy.

To find more cozy recipe inspiration, visit mrstspierogies.com.

Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Mini Pierogies

Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1 large shallot
• 1 large Honeycrisp apple (or 1 1/2 cups)
• 5 garlic cloves
• olive oil
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, divided
• 2 cups canned pumpkin puree
• 2 teaspoons maple syrup
• pepper, to taste
• salt, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• fresh thyme, to taste
• 1 box Mini 4 Cheese Medley Mrs. T's Pierogies

1. Slice shallot, peel and cube apple and crush garlic.
2. In pot over medium-low heat, add drizzle of olive oil and saute shallots, garlic and apple 20 minutes, covered.
3. Let mixture slightly cool then add to blender with 1/2 cup broth and blend until fully combined.
4. In pot, add pumpkin puree; blended shallot mixture; maple syrup; salt, to taste; pepper, to taste; nutmeg; cinnamon; remaining broth; heavy cream; and thyme, to taste. Bring to low boil then add frozen pierogies. Boil 3 minutes.

 Source: Mrs. T’s Pierogies

(Family Features) If you’re looking for a little motivation to take on a busy day or fueling up for an adventurous weekend with the family, there’s no better way to start the morning than with a filling breakfast. However, not everyone takes full advantage of this ever-important opportunity to prepare for the day ahead.

For some, skipping breakfast is due to a lack of time in the morning. For others, it isn’t about a lack of hunger or time; it’s boredom from quick solutions like cereal or a bagel.

Take your breakfast to a whole new level – without sacrificing too many precious morning minutes – with recipes you can get excited about like Basmati with Apricots, Walnuts, Yogurt and Honey. Jam-packed with flavor, it takes 5 minutes to prepare so you can serve your whole family a nutritious, filling meal even if you’re in a rush.

A long-grain rice that’s common in India, basmati is fragrant with a nutty flavor and fluffy texture that pairs well with the sweetness of dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, apricots and dates for a combination of flavor and nutrition at the breakfast table. Better yet, you can enjoy it during busy mornings with Minute Instant Basmati Rice, which is ready in just 5 minutes on the stove or in the microwave for quick, delicious, aromatic dishes.

When you’re in need of a single-serve meal that’s big on flavor but short on prep time before heading to the office, it’s hard to top a comforting breakfast scramble. This Tomato, Bacon, Onion and Cheddar Scramble is sure to awaken your taste buds while providing the energy you need to take on the day.

Fully cooked Minute Chicken & Herb Seasoned Rice Cups offer homestyle taste with carrots, onion and garlic. Ready in only 1 minute, the delicious combination of chicken, vegetables and herbs with hearty rice serves as a perfect base for savory omelets and scrambles. Plus, the BPA-free cups are a great option for an on-the-go power-up. For an even easier solution, you can eat the flavored rice right out of the cup so the breakroom or kitchen will stay clean while you enjoy a pick-me-up.

Discover more recipes that can fuel your mornings at MinuteRice.com.

Basmati with Apricots, Walnuts, Yogurt and Honey

Prep time: 3 minutes
Cook time: 2 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1 cup Minute Instant Basmati Rice
• 1/3 cup dried apricots, diced
• 1/3 cup walnut pieces
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup fresh apples, diced (optional)

1. Heat rice according to package directions.
2. In cereal bowl, mix rice with apricots, walnuts and yogurt. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon. Top with diced apples, if desired, and serve.

Tomato, Bacon, Onion and Cheddar Scramble

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1

• 1 Minute Chicken & Herb Seasoned Rice Cup
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/8 cup diced onion
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup diced tomato
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• sliced scallions or parsley, for garnish (optional)

1. Heat rice according to package directions.
2. In medium, nonstick saute pan over medium heat, heat butter. Add onion and saute 1 minute.
3. Add egg to pan and cook, stirring frequently, until scrambled and cooked through.
4. Add rice, bacon and tomato to pan; stir to combine until heated through. Stir in cheese. Garnish with scallions or parsley, if desired, and serve.

Source: Minute Rice

(Family Features) Break out the red, white and blue and (safely) set off your favorite fireworks – it’s time to honor America’s birthday. Along with all the booms and blasts, make sure your crowd is satisfied with one of the country’s most beloved snack foods and a true firecracker in the kitchen: popcorn.

Celebrated for its seed-to-snack simplicity, popcorn’s smell, taste and versatility mean it can enhance any occasion as a budget-friendly solution for family gatherings. As a timeless treat nationwide, it’s an especially perfect partner for Fourth of July get-togethers as it bursts while cooking and brings a thrill to the senses.

Whether your gathering will take place poolside, in air-conditioned comfort or while watching spectacular fireworks shows among the backdrop of the night sky, tasty treats that honor the occasion allow you to show off your patriotic pride.

These Peanut Butter Cups are an ideal summer snack that’s easy to prepare with everyday ingredients. All you need to do is melt together peanut butter, butter and marshmallows then mix in popcorn, shredded wheat, peanuts and raisins. Bake in individual paper liners for grab-and-go convenience then share with your nearest and dearest. For added flair, use American flag-themed liners or finish your creation with toothpicks connected to miniature American flags.

Add a touch of heat to this year’s celebrations with Cinnamon Candy Poppers that bring a real bang to the snack table. Inspired by those classic firecrackers that a Fourth of July party can’t go without, these balls of ooey-gooey goodness provide a truly patriotic spark.

Find more popcorn-inspired snacks for your summer celebrations at Popcorn.org.

Peanut Butter Cups

Yield: 24 cups

• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup butter or margarine
• 1 package (10 1/2 ounces) miniature marshmallows
• 6 cups freshly popped popcorn
• 6 cups spoon-size shredded wheat
• 1 cup dry roasted peanuts
• 1 cup raisins

1. Preheat oven to 250 F.
2. In microwave on high heat using large, microwavable bowl, melt peanut butter and butter 1 minute.
3. Add marshmallows and microwave on high 1 minute, or until marshmallows puff; stir.
4. Add popcorn, shredded wheat, peanuts and raisins; stir gently.
5. Place paper liners in two 12-cup muffin pans. Divide mixture into 24 cups.
6. Bake 10 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and tore "cups" in airtight container.

Cinnamon Candy Poppers

Yield: 24 balls

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 3 quarts popped popcorn
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter or margarine
• 3 cups miniature marshmallows
• 1/2 cup cinnamon-flavored candies
• red and blue confection stars
• red licorice string

1. Spread large sheet of plastic wrap on work surface and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Spray large mixing bowl lightly with nonstick cooking spray and place popcorn inside.
3. In medium saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Stir in marshmallows until melted and mixture is smooth. Pour over popcorn. Add cinnamon candies and mix well until coated.
4. Spray hands with nonstick cooking spray and form mixture into 24 balls. Gently press red and blue stars onto each ball. Place piece of licorice string on top of each ball.

Source: Popcorn Board

(Family Features) There’s perhaps no better occasion to show off your kitchen skills than Mother’s Day, a perfect opportunity to turn the tables on mom and let her relax while you handle cooking duties. A homemade breakfast – or better yet, letting her sleep in for brunch – is a sure way to win her over and show how much you care.

Show your delicate side by working up a batch of Apple Ricotta Crepes, which require a soft touch to cook the light, silky batter to golden perfection. This rendition of the beloved thin pancakes calls for a ricotta spread and apple-cinnamon topping for a delightful pairing of savory and sweet.

If a full Mother’s Day celebration is on the menu, something a bit heartier may be required. A frittata provides the best of both worlds, as it’s a filling meal that’s also easy to make – just let the oven do the work. This Apple, Tomato and Goat Cheese Frittata is no exception as it calls for a handful of everyday ingredients you can whisk together in a cinch. While it’s in the oven (about 30 minutes, give or take) you can put the finishing touches on your last-minute decorations and handwritten cards.

Special occasions with those you love can be uplifted with the aroma and flavor Envy Apples that offer an invitation to savor small moments around the table. Available at Whole Foods and other major grocery stores, the craveable texture and crunch of this leading apple variety provides balanced sweetness as the ultimate apple experience for Mother’s Day gatherings. Along with their delicious flavor, the flesh remains whiter longer, even after cutting, slicing, dicing or cubing, so that homemade meals look as good as they taste.

Visit EnvyApple.com to find more Mother’s Day brunch inspiration.

Apple Ricotta Crepes

Crepes:

• 1 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1cup whole milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• butter, for cooking

Apple Topping:

• butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• Envy Apples, sliced or cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• salt, to taste
• maple syrup

Ricotta Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 lemon, zest and juice only
• 2-3 tablespoons sugar, or to taste

1. To make crepes: In bowl, combine flour, sugar and salt. Add milk, eggs and vanilla then, using whisk, combine thoroughly. Mixture should be silky smooth. Refrigerate.
2. To make apple topping: In pan over medium heat, heat butter and brown sugar until bubbly and golden.
3. Add apples, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt, to taste; cook over medium-low heat until apples are soft. Turn off heat and finish with maple syrup.
4. To make ricotta filling: Combine ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice and sugar, mix well and set aside.
5. In nonstick pan over medium-low heat, melt small amount of butter.
6. Add one ladle crepe batter, cook until bubbles form, flip and cook until golden. Repeat with remaining batter. Stack crepes to keep warm and soft.
7. Spread ricotta mixture thinly onto crepes and fold into quarters. Top with apple mixture and serve.

Apple, Tomato and Goat Cheese Frittata

• 6 eggs
• 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 20 turns fresh cracked pepper
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 Envy Apple, small diced
• 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
• 4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives

1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, hot pepper sauce, salt, pepper and milk until well combined.
3. Stir in apples, tomatoes, goat cheese and chives until well combined.
4. Using 1/3 measuring cup, spoon frittata mixture into oven-safe large skillet or 9-by-9-inch pan.
5. Bake 25-30 minutes, or until eggs are set.
6. Let cool slightly then serve.

Source: Envy Apples

(Family Features) Don’t let Mother’s Day pass by as just another day on the calendar. Make this year’s celebration a true ode to the moms in your life with some extra special touches at breakfast and beyond.

Give Her the Day Off
Whether she’s the culinary expert of the home or cooking is usually a team effort, make sure her morning is one of rest and relaxation while you handle kitchen duties from prep to cleanup. These Bacon-Wrapped Egg Muffins are easily customizable to suit your family’s favorite tastes with nearly endless possibilities. Just make sure to place a foil-lined cookie sheet under the muffin tin to make cleanup a breeze.

For a sweeter touch on brunch, these Cinnamon Muffins offer a one-ingredient solution that take just 15 minutes to prepare. Serve alongside the egg muffins or let these ooey-gooey bites bake while mom enjoys the main course.

Add Flowers
Flowers are a timeless Mother’s Day gift for a reason. They provide pops of color on dining room tables, kitchen counters, end tables or even nightstands. Consider mom’s favorite spot in the house and place them within eyeshot for a frequent reminder of how much she’s appreciated.

Create a Personalized Card
Add a special final touch to an already memorable morning with a thoughtful card and handwritten message. Get the kiddos involved and create a card from scratch with construction paper, colored pencils, markers and more for a homemade gift she’ll cherish. If you didn’t fall from the artistic tree, don’t fret – a storebought card means all the same when paired with a heartfelt message that conveys your love.

Regardless of how you choose to celebrate, mom will appreciate the extra effort to make her day special. Find more family-friendly recipe ideas at Culinary.net.

Bacon-Wrapped Egg Muffins

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

• 1 pound regular-sliced bacon (not thick-sliced)
• 10 eggs
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1/3 cup half-and-half or milk
• 1 tablespoon garlic pepper
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh or frozen spinach

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. Using muffin tin, wrap bacon around inside of each muffin hole. In bowl, whisk eggs, cheese, half-and-half, garlic pepper and spinach. Pour into each hole, filling about halfway to avoid overflowing while cooking. Cook 40 minutes, or until eggs are golden.

Tips: Place muffin tin on cookie sheet lined with aluminum foil to catch grease and make cleanup easier. If you want bacon taste without lining muffin holes, mix fried bacon pieces into eggs.

Substitutions: Line each hole with hashbrowns then add egg mixture. Use broccoli instead of spinach, if desired.

Cinnamon Muffins

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

• 2 tubes (8-count each) cinnamon rolls

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. Grease muffin tin or line with liners. Using kitchen shears, cut each cinnamon roll into pieces and place in muffin holes.
3. Bake about 15 minutes, or until golden. Let cool then add provided icing.

Tip: To make icing extra special, add 2 tablespoons creamer and mix well before icing muffins.

 Source: Culinary.net

(Family Features) Few things go together quite like fresh spring air, warm sunshine and a menu made up of delicious brunch bites. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or simply gathering your loved ones around the family table for quality time together, a menu of morning favorites can appease appetites of all kinds.

From sweet to savory and back again, you can turn your mid-morning meal into a full-blown feast with a menu made up of pleasing dishes such as this French Toast Casserole, which can serve as a make-ahead twist on the breakfast classic; customizable Breakfast Burritos that pack a protein punch; and a bite-sized treat like Double Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins for a sweet finishing touch to any brunch occasion.

Find more recipes to inspire your next brunch menu at Culinary.net.

Warm Up with a Fresh Casserole

An exciting twist on a breakfast classic, it’s hard to beat this French Toast Casserole when putting together your brunch spread. Crisp on top while soft and moist in the middle, it comes fresh out of the oven with the aroma of maple syrup and pecans that will have the whole house eager for a bite. It’s easy enough to make fresh in the morning but can also be prepared the night before so all you have to do is add the topping and pop it in the oven.

French Toast Casserole

• 1 loaf French bread (about 1 1/2 pounds), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 5 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened milk
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• maple syrup, for serving

Topping:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup frozen strawberries
• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• confectioners' sugar, for dusting

1. Grease 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Place bread cubes in baking dish. In large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt. Pour mixture evenly over bread cubes.
2. If making casserole ahead, cover baking dish and refrigerate overnight. If baking immediately, let stand 30 minutes at room temperature to allow bread to soak up egg mixture.
3. Preheat oven to 350 F.
4. To make topping: Drizzle casserole with melted butter and sprinkle with brown sugar and pecans. Top with strawberries and blueberries.
5. Cover and bake 35 minutes then uncover and bake 10-20 minutes, or until topping is browned and egg mixture has mostly set.
6. Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil and let stand 10 minutes. Dust with confectioners' sugar. Serve with maple syrup.

Brunch with a Powerful Punch

When you’re craving something hearty and rich, switch up your brunch habits with wholesome and filling Breakfast Burritos. With protein to keep you full, veggies for a touch of added nutrition and hot sauce to pack a powerful punch of flavor in every bite, this hearty recipe will keep you full and bursting with energy until your next meal. Plus, they’re easy to make in a matter of minutes and totally customizable to accommodate every palate.

Breakfast Burritos

Servings: 4

• 2 teaspoons canola oil
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 4 eggs
• 4 egg whites
• 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• nonstick cooking spray
• 4 flour tortillas
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup salsa
• 1 large tomato, seeded and diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• hot sauce (optional)

1. In large skillet, heat canola oil over medium heat. Add red onion and red bell pepper; cook 8 minutes. Add black beans and red pepper flakes; cook 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Transfer to dish.
2. In medium bowl, whisk eggs and egg whites. Stir in cheese until combined. Heat large skillet over low heat, add egg mixture and scramble 3 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Spread sour cream over tortilla. Spread salsa over sour cream. Spoon 1/4 bean mixture over salsa. Spoon 1/4 scrambled eggs over bean mixture. Top with diced tomatoes and avocado. Drizzle with hot sauce, if desired. Roll-up burrito. Repeat three times with remaining ingredients and serve.

Bite-Sized Chocolate Delights

Flavorful French toast, filling breakfast burritos and favorite fruits make a feast to look forward to, but no brunch spread is complete without a chocolatey bite to cap off the meal. In fact, make it a double.

These Double Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins offer a combination of two kinds of rich chocolate complemented by the caramel notes of C&H Light Brown Sugar for an irresistible dessert in bite-sized form. Tiny, tasty treats are a perfect way to send guests off with one sweet final bite.

Visit chsugar.com to find more delectable dessert recipes.

Double Chocolate Chip Mini Muffins

Muffin Batter:

• 2          cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2       cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1          teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1          package (10 ounces) mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2          large eggs
• 1/2       cup C&H Light Brown Sugar, packed
• 1/2       cup C&H Granulated Sugar
• 3/4       cup sour cream
• 1/2       cup vegetable oil
• 1/2       cup whole milk
• 1/2       teaspoon instant espresso (optional)
• 2          teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2          tablespoons flaked sea salt (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Line mini muffin pan with mini cupcake liners.
2. In large mixing bowl, use whisk to combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt. Add chocolate chips and stir to ensure chocolate chips are coated in flour mixture.
3. In separate large mixing bowl, use wire whisk to whisk eggs and sugars until ingredients are combined and sugars are dissolved. Add sour cream, oil and milk. Whisk again to combine. If using espresso powder, add to vanilla then add to wet ingredients. Whisk vanilla espresso mixture into other liquid ingredients.
4. Pour liquid ingredients on top of dry ingredients. Using rubber spatula, mix until just combined, being careful to not overmix. Batter should be thick and shiny.
5. Using tablespoon or two spoons, spoon muffin batter into liners. Batter should be filled almost to top of each liner. Top each muffin with flaked sea salt before baking, if desired.
6. Bake muffins on center rack 6 minutes. Rotate pan and bake 6 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in muffin comes out clean. Once muffins finish baking, place muffin pan on cooling rack to cool completely.

(Family Features) The foundation of healthy eating may include nutritious breakfasts, lunches and dinners, but just as important are the snacks in-between meals. Regardless of when or where you snack, encourage better-for-you eating habits with nutritious nibbles to power through your day.

According to an online survey conducted among 1,000 Americans ages 18 and older across the U.S. by Wakefield Research on behalf of the American Pecan Promotion Board, Americans love snacks, and reach for them an average of three times a day.

However, where and when those snacks are eaten can vary from on the move to on the couch, from sunrise to after bedtime. Nearly a third (30%) of respondents are munching on snacks while in bed, calling it their favorite snacking spot. However, only 35% of their snack choices are considered healthy.

Fueling busy days can be easy with an option like pecans. According to the survey, 66% of snackers enjoy pecans on their own with 58% eating them as part of a trail mix. If you’re among the 50% who reach for a snack in the late afternoon, you can turn to nutritious, satisfying solutions to indulge afternoon cravings without the guilt. With pleasing crunch, comforting creaminess and a satisfying chew, pecans are the “no sacrifice” nut that can punch up your routine with both delicious taste and plant-based nutrition.

Just a handful of pecans – about 19 halves – provides a good source of fiber, thiamin and zinc and an excellent source of copper and manganese, a mineral that’s essential for metabolism and bone health. They also provide a mix of protein and good fats – 18 grams of unsaturated fat, including oleic acid, and only 2 grams of unsaturated fat – to help keep you full and energized throughout the day.

As an added bonus, their versatility and easy-to-pair profile makes them a perfect ingredient in recipes you can prepare in a cinch. For bite-sized treats that are packed with flavor and perfect for snack time, these Pecan Chickpea Cookie Dough Bites swap out flour and sugar in favor of blended pecans, chickpeas, vanilla extract, cinnamon and sea salt with dark chocolate chips folded in for a sweet finishing touch.

Or you can simply toss warm pecans with olive oil and sea salt in this Roasted Pecans recipe for a grab-and-go snack that can be prepared in advance without worrying about spoiling. Another benefit of pecans: They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 9 months or frozen up to 2 years, giving them a longer shelf life than many pantry favorites. Plus, they can be thawed and refrozen without losing flavor or texture.

To find more surprisingly delicious nutritional facts or recipe inspiration, visit EatPecans.com.

Pecan Chickpea Cookie Dough Bites

Recipe courtesy of Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN, on behalf of the American Pecan Promotion Board
Prep time: 10 minutes
Servings: 24

• 1 cup raw pecan pieces
• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

1. In blender or food processor, blend pecan pieces, chickpeas, vanilla extract, cinnamon and sea salt 3-5 minutes, scraping down sides occasionally, until smooth and creamy.
2. Fold in dark chocolate chips.
3. Form into 24 cookie dough balls. Eat as-is; no baking required.

Note: Store leftovers in airtight container in refrigerator 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Roasted Pecans

Recipe courtesy of the American Pecan Promotion Board
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8

• 2 1/4 cups raw pecan halves
• 2 teaspoons olive oil or pecan oil
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

1. Preheat oven to 300 F.
2. Place pecans on baking sheet and bake 15 minutes.
3. In heat-proof bowl, toss warm pecans with olive oil and sea salt, crushing larger salt grains with fingers while sprinkling.
4. Return pecans to baking sheet in single layer and bake 20 minutes, or until slightly browned and dry. Remove from oven and cool on baking sheet.

Note: Store pecans in airtight container in refrigerator up to 9 months or freeze up to 2 years. Pecans can be thawed and frozen repeatedly without loss of flavor or texture.

Source: American Pecan Promotion Board

(Family Features) Whether Cinco de Mayo means an opportunity to celebrate your family’s heritage or it’s simply an excuse to gather with the ones you love, every holiday truly is about the same thing: special moments together. While those treasured times at the table revolve around camaraderie and conversation, it can start with a filling meal and end with a sweet treat.

Take this year’s festivities the traditional route with recipes that combine familiar favorites with ingredients you normally may not use otherwise, such as cactus. This Mexican Cactus Pork Stew makes Cinco de Mayo a cinch with the use of a Dutch oven. Just brown fresh pork shoulder (or reheat leftover pork) in the Dutch oven and combine with onion and jalapeno for the right mixture of flavor and spice. Once pork is cooked or warmed through, add broth, beans, spices, seasonings and a cup of chopped cactus for a southwestern spin.

After some lively chatter or friendly competition, you’re bound to work up the appetite for dessert. Call the kids to the kitchen to lend a hand with these Kid-Friendly Mexican Cinnamon Cookies – they’ll love working with the dough and rolling warm cookies in the cinnamon-sugar mixture after baking. Remember, they don’t have to be perfect; you can ensure a bit of fun and flavor by letting their creativity shine.

Visit Culinary.net to find more family-friendly recipes perfect for celebrating holidays throughout the year.

Mexican Cactus Pork Stew

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

• 1 pound pork shoulder (leftover or fresh)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, chopped
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) mild chili beans
• 1 cup chopped cactus (nopales)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• 4 green onions, chopped, for garnish
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish

1. If using fresh pork, in Dutch oven, cube and brown it with onion and jalapeno pepper. If using leftover pork, reheat in Dutch oven with onion and jalapeno pepper.
2. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, chili beans, cactus, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper and salt and pepper, to taste.
3. Simmer 25 minutes then garnish with green onions and cilantro.

Kid-Friendly Mexican Cinnamon Cookies

Recipe courtesy of "Cookin' Savvy"

• 4 sticks butter, at room temperature
• 4 cups self-rising flour, plus additional for coating workspace
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 egg
• 3/4 cup sugar

Topping:

• 2/3 cup sugar
• 4 teaspoons cinnamon

1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. In bowl, combine butter, 4 cups flour and cinnamon. Add egg and sugar then knead into ball.
3. Spread additional flour on counter and cut ball into six sections. Roll each section into 24-inch ropes then cut into 1-inch pieces and place on cookie sheet.
4. Bake 10 minutes.
5. To make topping: In bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon.
6. Roll warm cookies in mixture and let cool on rack.

(Family Features) Whether your favorite springtime meals take you to the patio or have you throwing open the windows to let fresh air in, enjoying the sunshine and warmth with sweet and savory dishes is a perfect way to celebrate the season. Better yet – bring loved ones together with recipes that are as easy to make as they are delicious for refreshing taste without the hassle.

The uplifting aroma and flavor of Envy Apples offer an invitation to savor small moments around the table, especially when used in simple favorites like muffins, sandwiches, pizza or pies for delicious dishes all day long. Celebrating spring can start with this ultimate apple experience, allowing you to introduce loved ones to new ways to rethink weekly staples.

Wake up with breakfast or brunch on the patio, highlighted by Apple and Date Muffins you can prepare fresh or bake ahead of time then reheat for an easy, breezy morning. Spring often means outdoor activities which require a recharge at lunch like these Apple, Bacon and Brie Cheese Toasties featuring the perfect pairing of sweet with savory.

Wind down the day with Stilton Cheese Pizza, an ultimate family favorite and shareable solution. Finally, cap off the excitement of warming weather and time outdoors with a slice of Classic Apple Lattice Tart served with a scoop of ice cream or custard.

These recipes and more start with the craveable texture and crunch of Envy Apples – a leading apple variety – that provide balanced sweetness with flesh that remains whiter longer, even after cutting, so your favorite meals look as delicious as they taste.

Visit EnvyApple.com to find more patio-perfect recipe inspiration.

Classic Apple Lattice Tart

Servings: 8-10

• 2-3 sheets puff pastry dough
• 5 Envy Apples
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar
• ice cream, custard or cream, for serving (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 365 F.
2. Use two sheets semi-thawed pastry to line fluted tart pan approximately 10 inches, pressing and trimming neatly to fit; chill 15 minutes.
3. Peel, core and thinly slice apples into large bowl; sprinkle with sugar, lemon zest and cornstarch then toss well to evenly coat.
4. Arrange apple slices in pastry-lined tart pan, laying flat.
5. Beat egg with milk. Brush egg wash around pastry rim.
6. Cut 1/2-inch strips from remaining pastry sheet and make lattice pattern over apples, crimping edges once lattice is completed.
7. Brush tart with egg wash and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
8. Bake 35-40 minutes, or until pastry is golden. Allow to cool at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve with ice cream, custard or cream, if desired.

Apple and Date Muffins

Servings: 12

• 2 Envy Apples
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup bran flakes
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped dates
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup butter, melted
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3/4 cup milk
• butter or powdered sugar, for serving (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 375 F and line muffin pan with cupcake papers.
2. Peel and core apples and dice finely; toss with maple syrup.
3. In large bowl, combine flour, bran flakes, brown sugar, dates, pumpkin pie spice and baking powder; mix well.
4. In separate bowl, whisk melted butter, egg and milk.
5. Add half maple-apple mixture to dry ingredients.
6. Pour wet ingredients into dry and fold together until mixed. Spoon evenly into muffin tin cupcake papers. Add 1 teaspoon remaining maple-apple mixture to top of each muffin.
7. Bake 20-25 minutes until muffin mix is set and apple topping is golden. Allow muffins to cool 5 minutes before removing from tin.
8. Serve with butter or dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

Stilton Cheese Pizza

Yield: 1 pizza

• 1 tablespoon pizza sauce
• 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
• 1 storebought pizza crust
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/3 cup stilton cheese, divided
• 1 Envy Apple
• 4 slices prosciutto
• fresh arugula leaves, for garnish
• fresh basil, for garnish
• toasted walnuts (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 450 F.
2. Combine pizza sauce and sweet chili sauce. Spread sauce over pizza crust.
3. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the stilton cheese.
4. Cut apple in half then core and slice into thin wedges. Arrange apple over cheese then top with remaining cheese.
5. Cook pizza 7-10 minutes until pale golden and starting to bubble. Add prosciutto and cook 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbling.
6. Serve with fresh arugula and basil. Sprinkle with toasted walnuts, if desired.

Apple, Bacon and Brie Cheese Toasties

Servings: 2

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 1 teaspoon honey mustard, plus additional for serving (optional)
• 4 slices cooked bacon
• 1 Envy Apple, peeled, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 3/4 ounces brie cheese, sliced
• side salad, for serving (optional)

1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Lay out two slices bread, buttered sides down. Top with honey mustard then layer with two bacon slices, apple slices and brie cheese slices. Top with remaining slices bread, buttered sides up, to create two sandwiches.
3. Heat grill pan or frying pan and cook sandwiches until golden brown on each side and cheese is beginning to bubble.
4. Cut sandwiches in half and serve with side salad or extra honey mustard, if desired.

Source: Envy Apples

(Family Features) Whether you’re encouraging loved ones to start a new wellness kick or looking to add new ideas to an already-nutritious menu, families at any stage of a journey toward better health can use newfound favorites to bring fresh flavors to the table.

These dishes from Milk Means More provide an all-day assortment of deliciousness from breakfast to lunch and dinner so you can bring everyone together for tasty, nutritious meals no matter the occasion. Dairy foods, like the low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt and cheese found in these recipes, are fundamental to good nutrition.

Constructing a better-for-you menu calls for a balanced diet with a variety of foods to get essential nutrients. This balance is important for maintaining healthy gut and immune function while optimizing overall wellness.

Start by ramping up your family’s breakfast with these slightly sweet Mini Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Cinnamon-Maple Topping for a protein-packed way to start the day with a healthy addition of fresh berries.

Fusion cooking is on the menu at lunchtime with the spicy-sweet combo of Cajun-seasoned chicken mingling with mango and pungent blue cheese in these Chicken, Mango and Blue Cheese Pitas. Finally, finish the day with Feta Roasted Salmon and Tomatoes – an easy-to-make family meal ready in 30 minutes.

Find additional better-for-you recipe inspiration at MilkMeansMore.org.

Mini Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Cinnamon-Maple Topping

Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, culinary dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings:6

Topping:

• 1 3/4 cups plain Greek yogurt (fat free, 2% or 5%)
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pancakes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (fat free, 2% or 5%)
• 1/2 cup milk (skim, 2% or whole)
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• oil
• 1 cup fresh blueberries or chopped fresh strawberries

1. To make topping: Stir yogurt, syrup and cinnamon. Cover and refrigerate.
2. To make pancakes: In mixing bowl, stir flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In separate bowl, whisk egg, yogurt, milk, butter and vanilla. Add yogurt mixture to flour mixture. Stir just until combined (batter should be slightly lumpy).
3. Scrape batter into large plastic food storage bag. Oil nonstick griddle or large nonstick skillet. Heat over medium heat. Cut off about 1/2 inch from corner of plastic bag. Squeeze batter, about 1 tablespoon at a time, onto hot griddle. Cook 1-2 minutes per side, or until pancakes are golden brown, turning to second sides when bubbles form on surface of pancakes and edges are slightly dry.
4. Serve warm pancakes topped with cinnamon-maple yogurt and sprinkled with berries.

Feta Roasted Salmon and Tomatoes

Recipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, culinary dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

• Nonstick cooking spray
• 3 cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or dried dill weed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, divided
• 1 1/2 pounds salmon or halibut fillets, cut into 4 serving-size pieces
• 1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled feta cheese

1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Line 18-by-13-by-1-inch (half sheet) baking pan with foil. Lightly spray foil with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
2. In medium bowl, toss tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
3. Place fish pieces, skin side down, on one side of prepared pan. Sprinkle with remaining pepper. Lightly press feta cheese on top of fish. Pour tomato mixture on other side of prepared pan. Bake, uncovered, 12-15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with fork.
4. Place salmon on serving plates. Spoon tomato mixture over top.

Chicken, Mango and Blue Cheese Pitas

Recipe by Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, culinary dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means More
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

Sauce:

• 1 cup low-fat plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon orange juice or lime juice

Filling:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
• 1 large fresh mango, seeded, peeled and chopped
• 3 large whole-wheat pita rounds (or 6 small), halved
• 1 1/2 cups spring greens
• 3/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (3 ounces)

1. To make sauce: In small bowl, stir yogurt, honey and juice. Cover and refrigerate.
2. To make filling: In large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Cook and stir chicken with seasoning in hot oil 4-6 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink in center. Remove from heat. Stir in mango.
3. Fill pita pockets with greens, chicken mixture and blue cheese. Spoon yogurt sauce on top.

Source: United Dairy Industry of Michigan