Root Beer Sandwich Cookies

Root beer cookies with root beer filling. Yup. It's all root beer around here and it's good. Like amazing good. The cookie itself is soft textured, almost like the consistency of an oatmeal creme pie. The filling--yes with that same yummy root beer flavor--is thicker than buttercream, more like an Oreo filling with a root beer kick. My filling got used up before the cookies and I had every intention of stuffing those extra cookies full of vanilla ice cream for a root beer float sandwich, but...let's just say the cookies alone are really good!

My friend Kate (pictured with her cutie son Chad) had a birthday last month. Kate's a root beer fan so as soon as I saw this recipe, I knew it would be her birthday baking. In fact, I was so excited to get these to her that I shipped them out without taking a photo. And the few extra that I had (hey, you have to taste test) got devoured by Dave and I before I realized I had no photo! Luckily Kate is sweet enough (and thankful enough for the cookies) that she took some shots for me. Thanks Kate!

Jumbo Chocolate Chip Muffins

There were a few weeks when I was so hungry, even after having a good breakfast, that while at my desk around 9 or 10 am, I'd find myself taking a little field trip to the coffee cart or cafeteria to pick up a muffin. And for several days in a row, it was a big, giant chocolate chip muffin about the size of a softball that kept call my name. At about $2.50 a pop though, I noticed the damage to my wallet and figured I'd try my hand at making these treats myself. The result? Dave and I both agree these are better than what we've bought at various bakeries. Fluffy, tender and delicious with the perfect amount of chocolate and sweetness with chocolate chips throughout, plus a few extra mini chips on top for extra fun. This recipe helped me save some money on what I've dubbed "second breakfast," a little something I've been enjoying since I started eating for two!

Cheesy Enchilada Dip

Sometimes it's acceptable to have nachos for dinner. Even if it wasn't what you intended. In fact, I walked into the kitchen expecting to make a nice meaty casserole with enchilada flavor, lots of cheese and to dish it up for a hearty meal. Problem was, it never got thick enough to keep the structure of a casserole like I wanted. No matter, Because when life hands you cheese, seasoned ground turkey and lots of Mexican flavor, add some tortilla chips and grab a margarita--it's time for nachos.