Pizza Dough

This is a great Pizza Dough! We had a recipe that we used for our pizza oven, but I found this one and we like it better!

Got this recipe here: 

https://sugarspunrun.com/the-best-pizza-dough-recipe/

• 2-2 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour OR bread flour¹ divided (250-295g)
• 1 packet instant yeast² (2 ¼ teaspoon)
• 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ⅛-¼ teaspoon garlic powder and/or dried basil leaves optional
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil + additional
• ¾ cup warm water³ (175ml)

Instructions

• Combine 1 cup (125g) of flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. If desired, add garlic powder and dried basil at this point as well.
• Add olive oil and warm water and use a wooden spoon to stir well very well.
• Gradually add another 1 cup (125g) of flour. Add any additional flour as needed (I've found that sometimes I need as much as an additional ⅓ cup), stirring until the dough is forming into a cohesive, elastic ball and is beginning to pull away from the sides of the bowl (see video above recipe for visual cue). The dough will still be slightly sticky but still should be manageable with your hands.
• Drizzle a separate, large, clean bowl generously with olive oil and use a pastry brush to brush up the sides of the bowl.
• Lightly dust your hands with flour and form your pizza dough into a round ball and transfer to your olive oil-brushed bowl. Use your hands to roll the pizza dough along the inside of the bowl until it is coated in olive oil, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in a warm place.
• Allow dough to rise for 30 minutes or until doubled in size. If you intend to bake this dough into a pizza, I also recommend preheating your oven to 425F (215C) at this point so that it will have reached temperature once your pizza is ready to bake.
• Once the dough has risen, use your hands to gently deflate it and transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead briefly until smooth (about 3-5 times). 
• Use either your hands or a rolling pin to work the dough into 12" circle.
• Transfer dough to a parchment paper lined pizza pan and either pinch the edges or fold them over to form a crust.
• Drizzle additional olive oil (about a Tablespoon) over the top of the pizza and use your pastry brush to brush the entire surface of the pizza (including the crust) with olive oil. 
• Use a fork to poke holes all over the center of the pizza to keep the dough from bubbling up in the oven.
• Add desired toppings (see the notes for a link to my favorite, 5-minute pizza sauce recipe!) and bake in a 425F (215C) preheated oven for 13-15 minutes or until toppings are golden brown. Slice and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 113kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 146mg | Potassium: 32mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg

Notes

¹I've found that all-purpose flour yields a softer crust while bread flour gives a slightly crispier exterior. Please see the post for more information on all-purpose vs. bread flour in pizza dough.

²Many commenters have reported using active dry yeast (use the same amount, 2 ¼ teaspoon) with success. Some people have proofed the yeast first with the ¾ cup warm water, which is what I would recommend, while others have just mixed it into the dough as instructed. Both have had success! 

³Ideally your water should be between 105-115F (40-46C). I usually just use warm tap water but do make sure that your water isn't too hot or it will kill your yeast!

Making in Advance:

To make in advance, let the dough rise covered at room temperature as indicated in the recipe, then deflate it, wrap it tightly so it doesn't dry out, and store in the refrigerator for up to several days or it will freeze for up to a month. 

Hot Protien Maca Drink

Ok. My Maca drink. My kids know about this! This is a hot drink that has a lot of super great ingredients to fuel you in the morning. The original recipe is called Maca Latte. I don't feel it's really like a latte so I decided to call it what I felt it was. ;) I decided to put this here because the website that it was on doesn't work any more! Sad day! With everything that I put in this, the nutritional value ends up being somewhere close to:

Calories- 481

Carbs- 72 g

Fat- 9 g

Fiber- 14 g

Protein-36.2 g

That's pretty dang decent in the protein and fiber department! Now, the carb and the calorie count definitely depends on how much honey you put in. I estimated 2 Tbls. I need about that much, but that is also 120 calories! Some may be able to get away with less, or use a different sweetener that works best for you. I like honey for its health benefits and that it's a healthy sweetener. I went to an energy worker and he said that my body likes this drink 9/10. That's worth keepin! 

Without the recipe... it's kind of tricky right now. I've got a recipe from the comments that people have put, but then I have the quantities that I put into my fitness pal that don't match up... I'm just going to write them both. 

From the comments:

1 tbsp. raw cacao powder 

1 tbsp. maca powder 

1 tbsp. coconut milk powder 

1 tsp. ground cinnamon 

1/2 tsp. ground turmeric 

1 tsp. homemade chai spice 

1/2 cup boiling water 

1/2-3/4 cup milk of choice (I use almond or coconut)

Honey or coconut sugar to sweeten if desired

I do have a problem with this recipe because I really thought that it had ginger in it too.... and I also always put waaaaaaay more water/liquid than it called for because woah doggy! it was waaaaaaaay to concentrated!! It was thick and strong! Not for me!

Here's what I think it was and the way I made it:

1 heaping tbsp. raw cacao powder (basically 2Tbls)

1 tbsp. maca powder 

Vital Proteins Collagen serving- 1/4 C

1 tbsp. coconut milk powder 

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon, ginger and tumeric 

1 tsp. homemade chai spice (look up a good recipe)

1 cup boiling water 1/2-3/4 cup milk of choice (I use Califia coconut milk)

Honey to sweeten about 2 tbls.

mix all until smooth and drink!

What's most confusing (I haven't made it in years  :-S) is that the measurements that I put into myfitness pal are totally different :,-)

3 tbsp. raw cacao powder (basically 2Tbls)

2 tbsp. maca powder 

Vital Proteins Collagen serving- 1/4 C

1 tbsp. coconut milk powder 

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon, ginger and tumeric 

1 tsp. homemade chai spice (look up a good recipe)

1 cup boiling water 1/2-3/4 cup milk of choice (I use Califia coconut milk)

Honey to sweeten about 2 tbls.

Good Luck to us all.  , :-)

Why oh why do I drink this? Why should you drink this?? Here are some of the many health benefits of the ingredients in here:

Ginger

• Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant: Contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Digestive Health: Helps relieve nausea, vomiting, indigestion, bloating, and gas.
• Pain Relief: May help reduce arthritis pain, muscle soreness, headaches, and menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea).
• Heart Health: May help lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood sugar levels, which supports cardiovascular health.

Maca

• Energy and Stamina: Known for boosting energy levels, stamina, and endurance, potentially reducing fatigue.
• Hormonal Balance: May support the endocrine system, potentially helping to balance hormones and ease symptoms of PMS and menopause.
• Mood and Libido: Suggested to enhance mood, reduce stress, and improve sexual desire and function in both men and women.
• Nutrient-Rich: Contains fiber, protein, amino acids, vitamins (B2, C), and minerals (iron, calcium, zinc).

Turmeric 

• Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant: The active ingredient, curcumin, is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound that helps protect cells from damage.
• Joint Health: May reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with osteoarthritis, performing similarly to some over-the-counter medications.
• Heart and Brain Health: Linked to improved cardiovascular health (lowering "bad" cholesterol and improving blood flow) and enhanced brain function (memory and mood).
• Digestive Support: May help soothe digestion and reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and indigestion.

Cinnamon 

• Blood Sugar Control: May increase insulin sensitivity, helping to regulate blood sugar levels, a key benefit for managing type 2 diabetes.
• Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: Rich in polyphenol antioxidants that help reduce chronic inflammation and cellular damage.
• Heart Health: May help lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, while maintaining HDL ("good") cholesterol.
• Antimicrobial Properties: Lab studies suggest potential antibacterial and antifungal properties that could protect against certain infections.

Raw Cacao 

• Antioxidant-Rich: Raw cacao is packed with antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
• Heart Health: Supports heart health and improves circulation.
• Mood Stabilization: The compounds in cacao may help with mood stabilization.
• Relaxation: Contains components that may help promote relaxation and prepare the body for rest.

(Soluble) Fiber

• Lowers Cholesterol: Binds to "bad" (LDL) cholesterol in the digestive tract, preventing absorption and aiding excretion, reducing cardiovascular risk.
• Manages Blood Sugar: Slows carbohydrate absorption, preventing sharp blood sugar spikes and improving insulin sensitivity for better diabetes management.
• Promotes Healthy Gut Bacteria: Acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and producing anti-inflammatory short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).
• Aids in Weight Management: The gel it forms increases feelings of fullness (satiety), helping reduce overall calorie intake and supporting weight control.
• Improves Digestion: Softens stool and helps regulate bowel movements by absorbing water in the gut.

Raw Honey 

• Antioxidant: Contains antioxidants that help protect the body from damage.
• Immune Support: May help boost the immune system.
• Soothing Properties: Often used in traditional remedies for its soothing qualities in elixirs and teas.

Barbeque Chicken Pasta Salad

 I'm not a huge fan of pasta salad, but this one is worth it! It's also actually healthy for the most part! I love using wholewheat noodles! They are so much better for you, but you can use whatever kind you want. Of course I NEVER add cilantro, and I really don't like jalepeños, so I never add them. Also, rotisserie chicken makes this even easier! Yummmyyy!!! (got this one from allrecipes)

Zesty and sweet, this unique pasta salad melds the flavors of barbeque chicken, pasta, and freshly diced vegetables for a delicious summer meal. Can also be made without the chicken or with less, for a side dish.

Prep Time:

 

30 mins

Cook Time:

 

25 mins

Additional Time:

 

40 mins

Total Time:

 

1 hr 35 mins

Servings:

 

12

Yield:

 

12 servings

Ingredients

• 3 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

• 1 cup barbeque sauce

• 1 (16 ounce) package small whole-wheat pasta shells

• 1 cup barbeque sauce

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 cup jicama, peeled and diced

• 2 red bell peppers, seeded and diced

• 2 orange bell peppers, seeded and diced

• 2 (15.25 ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained

• ¾ cup minced fresh cilantro

• 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained

• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped (wear gloves) (Optional)

• 1 red onion, chopped (Optional)

Directions

1. Place the chicken breasts into a saucepan over medium-low heat, and pour in 1 cup of barbeque sauce. Simmer the chicken until the meat is no longer pink inside, about 15 minutes. Allow to cool, and dice chicken meat.

2. Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling, stir in the shell pasta, and return to a boil. Cook the pasta uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta has cooked through, but is still firm to the bite, about 10 minutes. Drain well in a colander set in the sink. Rinse pasta with cold water until chilled, and drain again thoroughly.

3. In a large salad bowl, whisk 1 cup of barbeque sauce with mayonnaise until thoroughly combined. Mix in the cumin, then stir in cooked chicken. Place cooked pasta, jicama, red and orange bell peppers, corn, cilantro, black beans, jalapeno peppers, and red onion into the salad bowl, and gently fold to combine with the dressing. Serve warm or chilled.

Nutrition Facts

             

French Toast --Pain perdu brioché au sucre vanillé

This is the BEST most creamy morning day dream that you will eat for breakfast!!! This is the way french toast is meant to be made! How do I know? Because one of the best benefits of learning french is that you can read french recipes and that is precisely what I have done! I have translated it here. Woohoo! You will not find better! My favorite part? Aside from the perfection of these, My germ OCD of slimy eggs has a no holds barred with the juicy creaminess of the middle because the juiciness is not from raw eggs! All of the eggs are on the outside fully cooked! Pheeewwwww!!! We could've died there! 

There is a lot of sugar in this recipe, I usually use half of what it calls for. I like to put the milk and egg mixture in containers that are square so that it fits the bread well.

Ingredients:

6 Pers.

• 12 slices of Brioche
• 1 Heaping Cup of Milk
• 1/2 C Sugar
• 1 pkg. Vanilla Sugar (or Vanilla)
• 5 Eggs
• 1.11 C Butter
• Syrup

• Instructions :

• Prep time: 10 min

• 1. Mix the milk and sugar and warm milk to help dissolve the sugar,  then stir in the vanilla. 

• 2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs

• 3. Dip the bread slices in the milk mixture and then in the egg mixture and cook on a medium heat griddle or pan. Serve with fresh fruit, whipped cream and or syrup.

Peanut Blossoms (Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies)

 

• So this is my go to PB cookie recipe. Disclaimer: I have not hunted high and low for the "PERFECT" PB cookie recipe. However, I haven't found any other PB cookie that has been astonishingly better than these, so I have kept this recipe. What makes these cookies so great is that you do not over bake them!!! Bake them just enough and no more! Then finish it with a kiss <3 

• 
  

• 1 (8 ounce) package HERSHEY®'S KISSES® Milk Chocolates

• ½ cup shortening

• ¾ cup REESE'S® Creamy or Crunchy Peanut Butter

• ⅓ cup white sugar

• ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar

• 1 egg

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ cup white sugar for decoration

Directions

Heat oven to 375 F. Remove wrappers from chocolate pieces.

2. Beat shortening and peanut butter in large bowl until well blended. Add 1/3 cup granulated sugar and brown sugar; beat until light and fluffy. Add egg, milk and vanilla; beat well. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt; gradually beat into peanut butter mixture.

3. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll in granulated sugar; place on ungreased cookie sheet.

4. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Immediately press a chocolate piece into center of each cookie; cookie will crack around edges. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely. But don't actually cool completely! Eat them! Eat them hot and right away!!! Wait just one second. Long enough for the chocolate to melt and eat that delicious chocolatey peanut butter cookie!!! Amen.