(Family Features) How you begin each day affects more than whether you make it to work on time. In fact, those early morning hours are often the foundation for your entire day.

Set yourself up for success with these tips to help you maximize your mornings. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, starting the day the right way can help you power through your to-do list.

Wake Up On Time
Set your alarm for a reasonable hour that gives you ample time to get ready for the day ahead. If you have a commute or children or pets who need attention, be sure to factor in time for unexpected events like traffic jams or accidents. Avoid setting your alarm early and hitting snooze repeatedly; the quality of sleep you’ll add is poor and you’ll likely end up feeling more tired than if you’d just risen with the alarm.

Get Your Body Moving
Even a light workout is a great way to rev up for a new day. Prioritizing your health to start the morning can put you in a healthier mindset. Completing a workout before the day is even fully underway gives you something to be proud of, which helps boost your mental well-being. What’s more, an early workout gets your blood pumping, which supports stronger cognition and produces more energy.

Treat Yourself
It’s never too early to give yourself a little TLC, and a delicious coffee-based drink is a great way to perk up your morning with a tasty treat. The best indulgent coffee beverages start with quality coffee. Consider options from Eight O’Clock Coffee, which has selected and roasted high-quality, 100% Arabica coffee for more than 100 years. The rich, smooth flavor means you can drink it black, but it’s also the perfect base for a decadent latte with maple and vanilla or a classic iced caramel macchiato.

Establish a Self-Care Routine
While you’re still working toward being fully awake, a routine that lets you dive into daily preparations on autopilot can be helpful. Making time to take care of yourself can give you greater confidence to tackle the day, so find a pattern that fits and run with it. Aside from basic hygiene, take time to moisturize your skin and apply sunscreen. Also build in time to focus on your mental health, whether you make some notes in a gratitude journal or meditate to manage stress.

Eat a Healthy Breakfast
Countless studies support the benefits of eating a nutritious breakfast. It’s good for your metabolism and digestive health. It also gives your body the fuel it needs to help you push through the day. You’re likely to think faster and be a more effective problem-solver when your body has proper nourishment. Eating early in the day also affects your mood; you’re less likely to be irritable if you’re not hungry.

Find more inspiration to perk up your mornings at eightoclock.com.

Maple Vanilla Latte

• 1 1/2 cups milk, divided
• 1/2 cup strong-brewed Eight O'Clock French Vanilla Coffee
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ground cinnamon, to taste

1. In microwave, heat 1 cup milk.
2. Pour coffee into mug and, using milk frother, top with warm milk.
3. Stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract and cinnamon, to taste.
4. Using milk frother, foam remaining milk then add to mug.

Salted Caramel Macchiato Iced Coffee

• 1/2 cup Eight O'Clock Caramel Macchiato Coffee, chilled
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup ice
• squeezable caramel sauce
• 1 pinch sea salt

1. Stir together chilled coffee and milk.
2. Pour over ice into glass.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with sea salt.

Photos courtesy of Shutterstock

Source:

Eight O’Clock Coffee

(Family Features) As part of the season of change with leaves crunching underfoot and a crispness in the air, remember to pause to celebrate a food known for its change, crunching and crispness – popcorn.

In honor of National Popcorn Poppin’ Month, a time when farmers head to the fields to harvest crops, gather with loved ones to celebrate this humble yet extraordinary snack. Whether it’s prepped on the stove, in the microwave or purchased ready-to-eat, Americans consume around 14 billion quarts each year of the wholesome whole grain, according to the Popcorn Board.

With each kernel, popcorn’s tantalizing aroma fills the air, setting off a journey of sensory bliss, as the sound of popping echoes in ears and the taste of buttery goodness dances on tongues. Whether enjoyed at the movies, during a cozy night in or at festive gatherings, popcorn brings people together, creating moments of shared joy and laughter. Catering to every palate, popcorn’s versatility knows few boundaries, as it can be dressed up with caramel, chocolate or even savory seasonings.

Join the celebration this fall with a fitting recipe like Old Fashioned Bourbon Maple Popcorn with Pecans. Accented with warming flavors of bourbon, orange and bitters, this maple-glazed treat offers a fun, cocktail-inspired snack perfect for sharing.

Discover more snacks that celebrate fall flavors at Popcorn.org.

Old Fashioned Bourbon Maple Popcorn with Pecans

Servings: 4-6

• 8 cups popped popcorn
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon bourbon
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 dash bitters

1. Place popcorn and pecans in large bowl.
2. In small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine maple syrup, bourbon and butter; bring to boil. Cook, swirling pan, 3-5 minutes, or until mixture thickens to corn syrup consistency. Stir in orange zest and bitters.
3. Drizzle maple syrup mixture over popcorn; toss to evenly coat. Cool completely and serve.

Tips: Substitute bourbon with rye or whiskey. For "mocktail" popcorn, substitute with non-alcoholic bourbon or whiskey.

Source:

Popcorn Board

(Family Features) Breakfast for dinner may be a widely accepted practice for many families, but breakfast for dessert can be a new option for your loved ones when a sweet craving strikes.

This Maple Pecan Dessert Pancake from author and James Beard Award winner Ellie Krieger’s “Whole in One” is cooked in a skillet with a maple-sweetened egg batter and can be served warm or chilled. It feels like a homey, sweet pancake when served warm. Chilled, it becomes more of a flan-like tart with its custardy batter and caramelized sugars.

Visit milkmeansmore.org for more family dessert inspiration.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Maple Pecan Dessert Pancake

Recipe courtesy of “Whole in One” by Ellie Krieger on behalf of Milk Means More
Servings: 8

• 1          cup pecan pieces, divided
• 4          large eggs
• 1/3       cup whole milk
• 1/4       cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4       cup light brown sugar
• 1/4       teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1          pinch salt
• 1          tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1          teaspoon confectioners’ sugar

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. In small bowl of food processor, process 1/2 cup pecans until finely ground. Transfer to bowl. In processor, pulse remaining pecans to coarsely chop.
2. In medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Stir in finely ground and coarsely chopped pecans.
3. In 10-inch ovenproof skillet over medium-low heat, heat butter. Add batter to pan. Cook without stirring until edges begin to set, 5 minutes, then transfer to oven and bake until completely set and golden brown, 10 minutes. Pancake will puff up in oven then fall into place as it cools.
4. Allow to cool in pan 10 minutes then sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar and cut into eight wedges. Serve warm or chilled.

Source: Milk Means More

(Family Features) You probably don't know it, but you may have the secret ingredients for an exceptional Easter dinner in your pantry right now. The holidays are a perfect opportunity to sprinkle creativity into special meals by using staples like pancake mix, syrup and instant mashed potatoes in unexpected ways to craft new and delicious dishes the whole family will love.

Here are ways to use up what you already have to make a complete Easter menu, including savory Bacon and Cheese Appetizer Bites, Spinach Salad with Warm Maple Dijon Vinaigrette, Maple Glazed Pork Tenderloin, and a sweet Spiced Mocha Fudge Cake. You'll create an Easter meal worth celebrating and make your hungry family a happy one.

For more creative recipes and tips, visit www.hungryjack.com.

Spiced Mocha Fudge Cake

Makes: 12 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour

CAKE:

• Crisco Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
• 4 (1-ounce) squares unsweetened baking chocolate
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1cup hot brewed Folgers Classic Roast® Coffee
• 2/3 cup Hungry Jack Instant Mashed Potato Flakes
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1/2 cup Pillsbury BEST® All Purpose Flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Powdered sugar

SPICED WHIPPED CREAM:

• 1/2 pint whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. HEAT oven to 350°F. Line bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. Coat paper with no-stick cooking spray. Place chocolate and butter in medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on HIGH power 45 to 60 seconds or until chocolate is melted and smooth when stirred.
2. COMBINE coffee, potato flakes, cinnamon and cayenne in large mixing bowl, stirring until moistened. Blend in sugar and vanilla. Blend in chocolate mixture and egg yolks. Stir together flour, baking powder and salt. Gradually blend into chocolate mixture.
3. BEAT egg whites on medium speed of electric mixer until stiff. Add to chocolate mixture and blend on low speed until completely blended, scraping sides and bottom of bowl frequently. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 55 to 60 minutes or until set in center. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Remove from pan. Sprinkle liberally with powdered sugar.
4. COMBINE whipping cream, powdered sugar, cinnamon and vanilla in medium mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed of electric mixer until stiff. Serve with cake.

Maple Glazed Pork Tenderloin

Makes: 4 servings
Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves, crushed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 pound pork tenderloin, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons Hungry Jack Original Regular Syrup

1. COMBINE thyme, marjoram, salt, onion powder and garlic powder in large resealable food storage bag. Seal bag and shake well. Add pork slices. Seal bag. Shake to coat.
2. MELT butter in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork mixture. Cook and stir 8 to 10 minutes or until pork is browned and no longer pink in center. Add syrup. Cook and stir until pork is glazed.

Spinach Salad with Warm Maple Dijon Vinaigrette

Makes: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 minute

• 1/4 cup Hungry Jack Original Syrup
• 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, minced, or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 cup Crisco 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 (6-ounce) bag fresh baby spinach leaves
• 1 small unpeeled red apple, cored and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 2 tablespoons crumbled cooked bacon or real bacon bits

1. WHISK together syrup, vinegar, mustard, thyme, garlic, salt and pepper in a medium microwave-safe bowl until well blended. Gradually whisk in oil, stirring until thickened.
2. COMBINE spinach, apple, cheese and bacon in a large bowl. Just before serving, microwave vinaigrette on HIGH for 30 to 45 seconds or until warm. Drizzle salad with desired amount of vinaigrette; toss salad and serve immediately.

Bacon and Cheese Appetizer Bites

Makes: 24 appetizers
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Crisco® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 cup Hungry Jack Buttermilk Complete Pancake & Waffle Mix (Just Add Water)
• 1/2 cup (2 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Paprika

1. HEAT oven to 400°F. Spray cookie sheet with no-stick cooking spray.
2. MIX sour cream and water in medium bowl until well combined. Add pancake mix, cheese and bacon pieces. Stir just until dry ingredients are moistened. Drop by rounded teaspoons onto prepared cookie sheet.
3. BAKE 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with paprika. Serve warm.

(c)/® The J.M. Smucker Company. Folgers Classic Roast is a trademark of The Folgers Coffee Company. Pillsbury BEST is a trademark of The Pillsbury Company, LLC, used under license.

Source: Hungry Jack

(Family Features) Eggnog Martini and Maple Amaretto Sour are two holiday cocktails that could easily be found on a festive bar menu. However, you can make them yourself in the comfort of your own home. Dazzle guests with an easy, simple trick: extracts.

A simple drop of an extract – peppermint, maple, rum or almond – can transform a holiday cocktail or warm drink into a truly special experience. Add rum extract and nutmeg to white chocolate liqueur and cream for an Eggnog Martini. Or try a few drops of maple extract with coffee, whiskey and half and half for a festive Irish Coffee.

Find these cocktails and more recipes at McCormick.com or on Facebook and Pinterest.

1. Chocolate Coconut Martini
   

   A dusting of delicious coconut and rich chocolate syrup makes for a drink that’s a dessert and cocktail in one. Coconut extract takes the decadent flavor to the next level.

2. Eggnog Martini
   

   There’s no taste that says “holiday” quite like eggnog. Swap the actual rum or bourbon for rum extract then mix with white chocolate liqueur and cream for a less alcoholic version. Top with snowy whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

3. Maple Amaretto Sour
   

   Give the sweet-tart Amaretto Sour – made with amaretto, simple syrup and lemon juice – the seasonal treatment with warming maple extract.

4. Almond Ale Shandy
   

   This nutty riff on a shandy calls for almond extract, which joins pale ale and cilantro in this lemony, fizzy drink. For a non-alcoholic version, just replace the beer with micro-brewed ginger ale.

5. Peppermint Martini
   

   The crisp bite of peppermint extract and the smooth sweetness of white chocolate liqueur unite in this quintessential winter martini. Be sure to use colorful mints for a candy-dipped rim that’s both pretty and tasty.

6. Maple Irish Coffee
   

   For a seasonal twist on Irish coffee, add a few drops of maple extract. It brings authentic maple flavor to this warm favorite when combined with hot coffee and whiskey.  

Source: McCormick

(Family Features) As leaves fall and temperatures cool, put a comforting twist on breakfast classics like oats and pancakes by incorporating autumn flavors from delicious fall harvest. Whether you're craving something sweet or savory, enjoying a breakfast full of wholesome ingredients and essential nutrients can help kick-start a great day.

Incorporating milk as an ingredient in your breakfast dish, or serving an 8-ounce glass on the side, is a nutritious way to start the day with essential nutrients like high-quality protein, calcium and vitamin D. Embrace the crisp temperatures and bring the whole family together for a delicious morning meal with these six fall breakfast essentials made with milk.

For more seasonal recipes made with milk to help you stay energized all year round, visit MilkLife.com.

Mexican Apple-Cinnamon Oatmeal

Enjoy old-fashioned oats with a fall flair. Once sweetened with apples and maple syrup and spiced with cinnamon and salt, mix in 1 cup milk and simmer until creamy. Sprinkle extra cinnamon and garnish with golden raisins.

Chai Quinoa Protein Breakfast Bowl

Jumpstart your morning with this protein breakfast bowl made with quinoa, milk, brown sugar, vanilla and spices galore. 

Amaranth Porridge with Pears, Crunchy Pecans and Yogurt

Toss roasted pecans drizzled in maple syrup with pears and spices then mix into amaranth with milk for a creative twist on a classic breakfast favorite.

Maple Steamer

Two ingredients: milk and maple syrup. Warm up, pour into a mug and sip on this simple, delicious treat.

Apple-Cinnamon Whole-Grain Pancake Muffins

Combine two breakfast favorites – pancakes and muffins – for the ultimate grab-and-go meal made with apples, cinnamon and wholesome milk for your delight.

Caramelized Pear and Pecan Zoats

Try this tasty twist to add vegetables to your breakfast bowl by mixing shredded zucchini and oatmeal to make zoats. Flavored with cinnamon, brown sugar and pecans, this recipe is an ingenious way to bring the fall harvest to your morning meal.

Source: MilkPEP

(Family Features) Weekend barbecues, birthday celebrations and family reunions are in full swing, so up your grill game from basic to bold with a few ideas to leave your guests wanting more.

Step outside your comfort zone and create some “wow-worthy” dishes with big flavors with these recipes from McCormick and chef Roger Mooking from Cooking Channel’s “Man, Fire, Food.”

Get started with these ideas:

• Once ribs are grilled until tender, use a sharp knife to carefully slit skin on the back of each rib for easier bone removal.
• Make a giant cheese-stuffed burger by lining a 9-inch round cake pan with foil. Add in half of the ground beef followed by a cheese layer. Top with remaining ground beef and shake on seasoning for maximum flavor.
• Brine pork chops in the refrigerator for 8-10 hours before grilling to infuse with flavor and help make tender and juicy. Top with caramelized apples cooked in a cast-iron skillet.

Find more summer recipes and tips at GrillYourBest.com.

Smokehouse Maple-Brined Pork Chops

Servings: 4

• 1/3       cup sea salt
• 1/4       cup, plus 2 tablespoons and pinch, McCormick Grill Mates Smokehouse Maple Seasoning
• 1/2       cup packed light brown sugar, divided
• 8          cups water, divided
• 4          bone-in center-cut pork chops (3/4-inch thick, about 2 1/2-2 3/4 pounds total)
• vegetable oil
• 1          lemon, cut in half
• 3          tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2          Granny Smith apples, each peeled, cored and cut into six wedges
• 1          tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives (optional)

1. In medium saucepan, whisk salt, 1/4 cup seasoning, 1/4 cup sugar and 4 cups water. Bring to simmer, whisking constantly, until salt and sugar dissolve. Pour in remaining water and mix thoroughly. Transfer brine to large container with lid and cool to room temperature. Add pork chops to brine. Cover and refrigerate 8-10 hours.
2. Heat grill to medium-high heat.
3. Remove pork chops from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Brush lightly with oil. Season both sides of pork with 2 tablespoons seasoning.
4. Grill until bottom side of pork chops are well marked and charred, 7-9 minutes. Flip and grill 4-6 minutes, or until cooked through and internal temperature registers 145° F. Let rest under tented foil.
5. Place large cast-iron skillet on grill. Juice one lemon half into small bowl. Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice and remaining sugar to skillet and stir with heatproof spatula until mixture resembles wet sand. Cook with grill open, stirring frequently, until sugar melts and deepens to amber, about 8 minutes. Add butter and stir until melted. Once foam subsides, add apples. Close grill and cook, stirring gently to coat apples in caramel, until apples are tender-crisp, about 8 minutes. Remove skillet from heat and add remaining lemon juice and pinch of seasoning; stir gently.
6. Arrange pork chops on platter and top with apples. Zest remaining lemon half over dish. Sprinkle with chives, if desired.

Best-Ever Buffalo Rack O’ Ribs Sandwich

Servings: 4

Slaw:

• 1/4       cup mayonnaise
• 1          tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2       teaspoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, plus additional, to taste
• 1/8       teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper, plus additional, to taste
• 2          cups shredded green cabbage
• 1/2       cup shredded carrot
• 1/4       cup diced celery, chopped
• 2          tablespoons fresh celery leaves
• 2          tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Ribs:

• 1          rack (about 2 pounds) baby back ribs
• 3          tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar
• 1          tablespoon Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• 4          tablespoons hot sauce, divided, plus additional for spreading and serving (optional)

Sandwich:

• 1          soft French loaf (12-14 inches), split
• olive oil
• Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
• McCormick coarsely ground black pepper
• 1/4       small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4       cup crumbled blue cheese

1. To make slaw: In medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, lemon juice, seasoned salt and pepper. Add cabbage, carrot, celery, celery leaves and parsley; toss to combine. Sprinkle with additional seasoned salt and pepper, to taste.
2. To make ribs: Prepare grill for indirect medium heat at about 350° F.
3. Insert butter knife between membrane and bone on backside of ribs. Grab membrane with paper towel then pull to remove membrane; discard. Rub ribs on both sides with brown sugar and seasoned salt. Wrap ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place on indirect-heat side of grill. Grill ribs, turning once until meat is tender and pulling away from bone but not totally falling apart, about 1 hour, 15 minutes-1 hour, 30 minutes. Remove ribs from grill.
4. Unwrap ribs and let cool until cool enough to handle. Using sharp knife, carefully slit skin on back of ribs and remove bones, keeping slab in one piece.
5. Place boneless rib slab on direct-heat side of grill, rounded-side up, and brush top with 2 tablespoons hot sauce. Grill until underside begins to crisp, about 2 minutes. Carefully flip ribs and brush top with the remaining hot sauce. Continue to grill ribs until glossy and caramelized, about 2-3 minutes.
6. To assemble sandwich: Scoop out most of soft insides of top of French bread to make room for toppings. Brush cut sides with oil and sprinkle with seasoned salt and pepper. Grill on direct-heat side of grill until bread is toasted and grill marks appear, about 3 minutes.
7. Place ribs on bottom of loaf. Brush with additional hot sauce, if desired, and top with slaw, onions and blue cheese. Cover with top of loaf. Cut into four pieces.

Giant Bacon-Cheddar Juicy Lucy Burger

Servings: 8

• 2          tablespoons McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Steak Seasoning, divided
• 2          pounds 80 percent lean ground beef
• 8          ounces sliced medium or sharp white cheddar cheese
• 1/4       cup mayonnaise
• 1/4       cup yellow mustard
• 8          long pickle slices, plus 2 tablespoons brine
• 1          round loaf soft bread (10 inches), cut in half horizontally
• olive oil
• sea salt
• freshly ground black pepper
• 1          large heirloom tomato, thinly sliced
• 1          small red onion, thinly sliced
• 8          slices bacon, cooked
• 2          cups shredded iceberg lettuce

1. Line 9-inch round cake pan with aluminum foil, leaving extra foil over edges of pan. Sprinkle with 2 teaspoons steak seasoning. Press half of ground beef into cake pan. Layer cheese in middle, leaving 1/2-1-inch border around sides. Sprinkle with additional 2 teaspoons seasoning. Top with remaining ground beef in even layer and press to seal in cheese. Sprinkle with remaining seasoning.
2. Lift burger from cake pan using foil. Press to flatten to about 11 inches in diameter. Refrigerate until ready to cook. (Patty can be assembled up to 2 hours in advance.)
3. In small bowl, whisk mayonnaise, mustard and pickle brine until smooth. Cover and refrigerate.
4. Remove most of soft insides from top of bread to make hollow. Reserve insides.
5. Prepare grill for indirect medium heat at about 350° F.
6. Brush grill grates with oil. Hold burger on foil bottom and flip onto indirect-heat side of grill; peel off foil. Cook until sides of burger are cooked and it feels firm when lifted with spatula, about 8-10 minutes. Using two spatulas, carefully flip burger. Close grill and cook until burger is cooked through and cheese is melted, about 5-8 minutes longer. Move to direct-heat side of grill for 1-2 minutes per side for more char.
7. Brush cut sides of bread with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Grill on direct-heat side of grill until bread is toasted and grill marks appear, about 3 minutes.
8. Place bottom half of bread on large cutting board. Spread with half of mustard sauce. Place burger on top and top with tomatoes, onions, pickles and bacon. Spread top of bread with remaining mustard sauce and fill with lettuce. Place top of bun on burger and cut into eight wedges.

Source:  McCormick

(Family Features) Amazing food is the centerpiece of most holiday gatherings. This Easter, impress guests with your culinary talent by making simple dishes simply amazing. With a little special attention, even the most basic foods can evolve into dishes worth sharing with loved ones.

Most chefs agree that spices and seasonings are essential elements of your kitchen arsenal. This Easter, give your spread a boost with spices and herbs of the highest quality, such as those from Spice Islands, which crafts and packages spices and herbs from around the world to deliver the most authentic and intense flavor possible.

Sensational Cinnamon

With its rich hue and warm aroma, cinnamon can bring spicy sweetness to all kinds of baked goods. However, all cinnamon is not the same. There are two main varieties of cinnamon, Indonesian and Vietnamese.

Vietnamese, which is used in the Spice Islands Saigon Cinnamon featured in these recipes, tends to have a brighter, spicy taste. The forests of Vietnam are known for their premium cinnamon. High in volatile oils, the Vietnamese cinnamon trees produce a deep, reddish-brown cinnamon with an intense fragrance and sweet, red-hot-candy-like flavor.

Update your traditional ham with a spicy, honeyed glaze; give a side serving of carrots a tasty twist and end the affair on a sweet note with a rustic, utterly delicious dessert. Find more flavorful ideas to elevate your Easter menu at spiceislands.com.

Spiced Honey and Black Pepper-Glazed Ham

Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12

• 8-10     pounds cooked shank-end ham
• water (optional)
• 1          tablespoon Spice Islands Cracked Black Pepper
• 1          tablespoon Spice Islands Ground Mustard
• 1          tablespoon Spice Islands Garlic Powder
• 1/2       cup honey
• 1 1/2    teaspoons Spice Islands Ground Saigon Cinnamon
• 1/2       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Cloves

1. Heat oven to 325° F.
2. With sharp knife, score ham at 1-inch intervals; place in baking dish. If ham appears dry, moisten surface with water. In small bowl, combine black pepper, mustard and garlic powder. Rub pepper mixture over surface of ham. Roast according to package directions.
3. Combine honey, cinnamon and cloves. Drizzle over ham during last 30 minutes of roasting. Remove ham from oven and let rest 20 minutes before slicing.

Spiced Maple Carrots

Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

• 1          pound (4 cups) baby carrots
• 1/2       cup water
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Saigon Cinnamon
• 3/4       teaspoon Spice Islands Ground Ginger
• 2          tablespoons Maple Grove Farms 100% Pure Maple Syrup
• 1          tablespoon butter
• sea salt, to taste

1. In large skillet, combine carrots, water, cinnamon and ginger. Mix well. Cover and cook on high 6 minutes until almost tender.
2. Add maple syrup and butter. Mix well and continue to cook, uncovered, 2-3 minutes, until carrots are well-glazed. Season, to taste, with sea salt.

Anise, Pear and Almond Crostata

Prep time: 45 minutes
Total time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Crostata Crust:

• 1 1/4    cups all-purpose flour
• 1          stick butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes and frozen
• 1/2       teaspoon Spice Islands Fine Mediterranean Sea Salt
• 1/4       cup ice water

Anise Almond Filling:

• 1          cup blanched, slivered almonds
• 3/4       teaspoon Spice Islands Anise Seeds
• 1/3       cup sugar
• 1          large egg
• 1          teaspoon Spice Islands Vanilla Extract
• 1/4       teaspoon Spice Islands Fine Mediterranean Sea Salt
• 2          tablespoons butter, at room temperature
• 3          Fiorelle or small pears, sliced into thin wedges
• 2          tablespoons sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
• 1          tablespoon lemon juice
• 1          large egg, beaten
• 2          tablespoons Polaner Apricot Preserves, heated
• cream or ice cream (optional)

1. To make crust: In food processor, combine flour, frozen butter and salt. Pulse until dough is size of large peas. Add 3 tablespoons ice water and pulse several times. Pinch dough to see if it is holding together; if not, add water a couple of teaspoons at a time, pulsing once or twice after each addition, until dough holds together. Form dough into disk, wrap in plastic wrap and chill 30 minutes.
2. Heat oven to 400° F.
3. To make filling: In food processor, blend almonds, anise seeds, sugar, egg, vanilla and salt until paste forms. Add room temperature butter and blend again. Set aside.
4. Toss sliced pears with 2 tablespoons sugar and lemon juice. Set aside.
5. On sheet of floured parchment paper, roll out dough into 13-inch circle; transfer on parchment to rimless cookie sheet.
6. Spread almond paste onto circle, leaving 2-inch border. Scatter pears on top, covering almond paste. Fold dough up and over pears, overlapping dough as needed. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle crust generously with extra sugar.
7. Bake until pears are tender, 40-45 minutes. If crust starts to get too brown, lightly cover with foil. Remove tart from oven and brush pears with heated apricot preserves. Serve with cream or ice cream, if desired.

Source: Spice Islands

(Family Features) Easter is all about festive family gatherings and good food. Whether you’re celebrating with your closest or hosting a larger crowd in your home, try these simple tips to keep everyone happy and full without blowing your budget.

Plan ahead: Don’t let the pressure of hosting the holidays stress you. A well-constructed game plan can help you stay on track with your spending goals. Before heading to the grocery store, take inventory of what you already have and create a list of the items you need. These simple steps can save you time and money in the long run.    

Find affordable ingredients and supplies: Grocery shopping can be a daunting task, especially with seemingly endless options. Shopping at a grocery store like ALDI helps you find everything you need in one quick and easy shopping trip, including high-quality, fresh, affordable foods for your Easter spread. While there, you can also pick up other Easter essentials like baskets, toys, bakeware, decor and more.  

Keep leftovers in mind: Food (and money) can go to waste when leftovers go uneaten. Instead of tossing out your forgotten leftovers, incorporate them into a whole new dish. Try these Holiday Ham Sliders using leftovers from main dishes such as Slow-Cooked Maple Ham.

Find more tips and recipes for an appetizing Easter at ALDI.us.

Slow-Cooked Maple Ham

Recipe courtesy of Chef Alyssa, ALDI Test Kitchen   
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 hours, 15 minutes
Servings: 10

• 20        ounces Sweet Harvest Pineapple Chunks
• 8          pounds Appleton Farms Smoked Ham Butt
• 1          cup Specially Selected 100% Pure Maple Syrup
• 1          cup Baker’s Corner Brown Sugar
• 1/2       teaspoon Stonemill Cinnamon
• 1          tablespoon Burman’s Dijon Mustard
• 1          teaspoon Stonemill Ground Black Pepper

1. Pour pineapple into large slow cooker. Place ham on top of pineapple, flat-side down.
2. In small bowl, combine syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, Dijon mustard and pepper. Pour over ham.
3. Set slow cooker to low. Cook 4-5 hours.
4. Remove ham; keep warm. Skim fat off top of remaining liquid in slow cooker.
5. Pour liquid into small saucepan and bring to boil. Reduce heat to simmer; cook until reduced to desired consistency.
6. Serve sauce on side or heat oven to broil and glaze ham. Broil 3-4 minutes for caramelized crust.

Holiday Ham Sliders

Recipe courtesy of Chef Linsey, ALDI Test Kitchen
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6

• Carlini Canola Cooking Spray
• 3          ounces Happy Farms Preferred Cranberry White Cheddar, shredded
• 3          ounces Happy Farms Preferred Plain Havarti Cheese, shredded
• 12        ounces L'oven Fresh Hawaiian Sweet Rolls
• 2          tablespoons Burman's Spicy Mustard
• 1/4       cup sliced red onion
• 12        ounces Appleton Farms Spiral Sliced Half Ham
• 1/4       cup sliced green apple
• 4          tablespoons Countryside Creamery butter, melted
• 1/2       teaspoon Stonemill Garlic Powder
• 1/4       teaspoon ground Stonemill Sea Salt
• 1/2       teaspoon Stonemill Parsley Flakes

1. Heat oven to 350 F.
2. Line 9-by-13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and coat with cooking spray.
3. In small bowl, combine cranberry white cheddar and havarti cheeses. Reserve.
4. Remove entire package of rolls and, keeping rolls connected, slice in half horizontally.
5. Place bottom half of rolls in baking pan. Spread with spicy mustard.
6. Top with red onion, ham, apple, cheese mixture and bun tops.
7. In small bowl, combine butter, garlic powder, salt and parsley flakes. Pour over sandwiches.
8. Cover with foil and bake 15 minutes.
9. Remove foil. Bake 10 minutes more.
10. Remove from pan and separate sandwiches; serve immediately.

Source: ALDI

(Family Features) Good things come in pairs, and flavor is no exception. Professional chefs know the secret to combining sweet, hot, tangy, salty, bitter and sour for crave-worthy dishes, and now everyday cooks are discovering this concept as well. The right combinations can turn basic main dish meals into tasty adventures. With a greater variety of ingredients and influences at our fingertips — in restaurants, grocery stores and on TV cooking shows — experimenting with flavor pairings has never been easier or more exciting.

The palate-pleasing combination of salty and sweet goes upscale with crystallized ginger and salted pistachio. While it is an ideal pairing for desserts, the dynamic duo is equally delicious in main dish recipes, such as Ginger-Pistachio Crusted Chicken With Tangerine Sauce.

Watch out when wasabi and maple — the ultimate in sweet heat — team up. Accented by ginger and garlic, Maple Wasabi Glazed Salmon features an exciting twist on teriyaki. This combination is also great for enhancing the flavor of stir-fries, ribs and chicken.

Though their appearance is tiny, when mustard and fennel seeds join forces, the result is a mighty punch of flavor and texture. For a light, delicious main dish salad, try Fennel and Mustard Seed Crusted Shrimp With Apricot Dressing. Toasting the seeds adds depth to their flavor.

For additional recipes, visit www.mccormick.com.

Toasting spices is fast and easy:

1. Place dry skillet over medium heat.
2. Once pan is hot, pour in desired amount of seeds.
3. Using a spatula, stir seeds in pan until they become fragrant, approximately 1 to 2 minutes.

Fennel and Mustard Crusted Shrimp With Apricot Dressing

Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Makes: 4 servings

• 1 tablespoon McCormick Gourmet Collection Mustard Seed
• 1 teaspoon McCormick Gourmet Collection Fennel Seed
• 1 teaspoon hot water
• 1/8 teaspoon McCormick Gourmet Collection Ground Turmeric
• 1 pound extra large shrimp (16 to 20 count), peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup apricot preserves
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 4 cups field greens

1. Heat a small skillet on medium heat. Add mustard and fennel seeds; cook and stir about 2 minutes or until fragrant. Immediately pour out of hot pan to avoid over-toasting. Finely crush seeds using a small food processor, a clean coffee grinder, a rolling pin or a mortar and pestle. Pour into small bowl. Stir in hot water and turmeric. Let stand 5 minutes. Coat shrimp evenly with seed mixture.
2. Mix apricot preserves, lime juice, soy sauce and sea salt in small bowl with wire whisk until well blended. Set aside.
3. Heat oil in large skillet on medium heat. Add shrimp; cook 3 to 5 minutes or just until shrimp turn pink, turning once. Divide greens among 4 serving plates. Top with shrimp. Serve with apricot dressing.

Maple Wasabi Glazed Salmon

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Makes: 8 servings

• 2 teaspoons McCormick Gourmet Collection Wasabi Powder
• 1 teaspoon water
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon McCormick Gourmet Collection Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon McCormick Gourmet Collection Ground Ginger
• 2 pounds salmon fillets

1. Mix wasabi with water in small bowl until well blended. Add remaining ingredients, except salmon; stir until well mixed. Place salmon in 13- by 9-inch baking dish. Spoon wasabi mixture evenly over salmon.
2. Bake in preheated 375°F oven 15 to 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork, basting occasionally with wasabi mixture.

Ginger-Pistachio Crusted Chicken With Tangerine Sauce

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Makes: 4 servings

• 3/4 cup shelled salted pistachio nuts
• 1/4 cup McCormick Gourmet Collection Crystallized Ginger
• 1/3 cup tangerine or orange juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
• 1 egg white, lightly beaten

1. Place pistachios and crystallized ginger in food processor; process until mixture is chopped. Stir tangerine juice, honey and soy sauce in small bowl with wire whisk until smooth. Set aside.
2. Place chicken in foil-lined shallow baking pan; brush chicken with egg white. Coat evenly with ginger-pistachio mixture.
3. Bake in preheated 350°F oven 15 to 20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Slice chicken and serve with tangerine sauce.

Source: McCormick