A New Year’s Celebration just isn’t complete without Champagne, and I’ve put together a selection of three different Champagne drinks to help you ring in the New Year. We’ll start off with a delicious “Mexican Bubbly”, along with M&J’s Champagne Spritzer and finish the trio with...

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This appetizer is the ultimate in make ahead.  Arrange the platter up to a day ahead, keeping the bread separate. When you are ready to serve, put the platter out on the counter finish with the bread and serve. This can be out for several hours with out refrigeration. Ingredients 8 oz or 2 large balls fresh mozzarella cheese 5 dates,...

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I’m a big fan of the sugar cookie recipe by Alton Brown of the Food Network. You can use your favorite cookie recipe or in a pinch use the pre-made dough from the store. These cookies are great for Valentines Day as well, just use heart shaped cookie cutters. If you are making your cookie dough, add 1/2-3/4 (depending on how minty you like...

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Sometimes you find a recipe that simply can’t be topped!  In this case,  I like to use a sugar cookie recipe by Alton Brown of the Food Network.  You can use your favorite cookie recipe or in a pinch use the pre-made dough from the store.  I like to give these cookies as a gift to co-workers or my UPS driver, and they are a perfect...

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I make the frosting up to 5 days ahead. Since the cookies are store bought I keep them on hand throughout the holidays so I always have a quick dessert on hand. Makes 1 dozen Ingredients 1/2 cup or 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature 2 Tablespoons pumpkin puree a scant 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1/4 cup brown sugar 24 ginger thins or...

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