Apple Butter Cheesecake Bars

Apple Butter Cheesecake Bar Recipe

White House Foods® Apple Butter + Cheesecake Bar = A heavenly combination

This recipe is perfect for Fall. Thanksgiving? Halloween Party? Sunday Dessert? Office Party? This is a sure hit recipe!

If you are an apple butter fan, you’re going to need this recipe. As always, it’s simple… (a must for me) and it’s also delicious (also a must)!

The recipe is below, but be sure to refrigerate overnight before serving. This is crucial for texture and flavor. Also, I highly recommend White House Foods® Apple Butter. It is made in Winchester, Virginia with American grown apples. You can find it at your local Wal-Mart, Food Lion, or online here! 

What you’ll need:

For the crust:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the cheesecake layer:
  • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 egg at room temp
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla 
For topping:
How to make it:
  • Preheat oven to 350°
  • First the crust: Cut butter into small pieces. Beat together the butter and flour until it is thoroughly combined into crumbly pieces. Place the crust mixture into an ungreased 13×9 baking dish. Pat the crust evenly into the dish with your hands. Bake the crust for 15 minutes. Remove and cool. I placed mine into the fridge to speed up this process.
  • Next the cheesecake mixture: Beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth then add in the egg and vanilla. Beat on medium until evenly combined. Set this mixture to the side.
  • Then the topping: Cut butter into small pieces. In a bowl, use a fork to mix the flour, confectioners’ sugar, butter pieces, pecans, and salt. This mixture will not be smooth. You should have a crumbly/coarse texture. Set to the side.
  • Make the magic happen: Take the cooled crusted and spread the cream cheese mixture on top evenly. Leave an edge around the outside perimeter to from “crust.” Next, spread a thin layer for White House Foods® Apple Butter over the cream cheese layer. Last, sprinkle the crumb topping over the top evenly.
  • Bake for 40 minutes. Remove and cool. Cover and store in refrigerator overnight before cutting into square bars.

Let me know if you try them! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!

xoxo,

Brittany

 

Check out my easy print and decorate Fall Decor idea here: DIY Fall Decor – Free Printable

 

Post Sponsored By: 

White House Foods, serving families since 1908. Visit them online at www.whitehousefoods.com to find your favorite applesauce, juice, cider, butter, organic apple cider vinegar with mother, and much more! Proudly growing their own apples, here in the USA!

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Easy Recipes: Chocolate Applesauce Cake

Easy Recipes: Chocolate Applesauce Cake

I am the QUEEN of Easy Recipes, and this one is 100% one of my favorites!

You may be thinking, Chocolate, applesauce, and cake is a questionable trio….. BUT trust me the trio was meant to be!close pic

I was skeptical but after tasting, this is going

to be my holiday dessert go-to. First of all, it was super simple. You do not need to be a fancy baker to pull this off. Second, I typically have all of the ingredients in my pantry… perfect for those last minute holiday parties or guests. 

I took this cake into the office break-room and it was gone within minutes. IT’s a must try…and then try again!

What you’ll need:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup butter or margarine (melted)
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups White House Foods® Original Applesauce
  • 2/3 cup chocolate chips
  • powdered sugar

Directions:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Grease a 9×13 pan.
  • Combine all the listed ingredients EXCEPT– 2 tablespoons of sugar and the chocolate chips—in a large mixing bowl. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
  • Pour the batter into greased pan.
  • Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar over top of batter in pan. Then sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of batter and sugar.
  • Bake in preheated oven for 40-45 minutes.
  • Let cool of 10 minutes then sprinkle powdered sugar over top of cake.
  • Serve warm & enjoy!

 

Try it for your next Sunday dessert or upcoming holiday festivities and let me know what you thought! Comment below or tag me on social @coldcoffeegrind 

piece with jar

 

For other easy, recipes, click here!

As always, thanks for reading and happy baking!

 

xoxo,

 

Brittany

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Easy Christmas Gift Crafts!

Need a last minute Christmas gift idea?

Christmas Crafts

On this week’s Vlog, Benjamin joined me to help make some thoughtful, handmade Christmas gifts. Check out the video here for ALL the tutorials: Christmas Craft Video!

We covered gifts for the grandparents, aunts/uncles, teachers, friends, co-workers, etc! There’s something for everyone. I have included the links to the free printables below. If you try any or create your own, comment below or tag me on Instagram so I can see @coldcoffeegrind !

Link for the “Thanks for making me one smart cookie!” : ChristmasGiftTags2018

Link for “Thanks a latte for all you do!”:  ChristmasLatte2018

 

Thanks for watching & reading, it means to world to me! I hope you ALL have a Merry Christmas!

 

xoxo,

Brittany

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Santa Claus Applesauce Pouches!

It’s that time again…. holiday parties, Christmas dinner’s, school celebrations, & the list goes on and on! Looking for a healthy, yet fun & festive option? These are perfect for the kids…not to mention, they will save you a ton of time in the kitchen!

FullSizeRender

For Benjamin’s school party, I attempted a recipe that proclaimed it was the “easiest, picture perfect” cookie recipe. It took WAY too long and if you follow me on Instagram (@coldcoffeegrind) you know they were anything but “picture perfect.” Benjamin hasn’t even attempted to sneak one because they don’t look edible. #strugglecity

So instead, insert my favorite healthy option…White House Foods® Applesauce pouches + a simple Santa Suit Printable! I used the strawberry flavor for a little change, plus the red cap makes a great Santa hat. You can get the printable by clicking here:ChristmasPouch2018.

Directions:

  1. Print the free printable Santa Suit wraps.
  2. Cut them out.
  3. Wrap and tape them around the pouches.
  4. Glue small, white pompom ball on cap. 
  5. Deliver to your next Christmas event! 
  6. Be sure to take a picture, and tag me so I can see! @coldcoffeegrind

FullSizeRender (1)

Merry Christmas!

xoxo,

Brittany

 

 

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Gift Guide for the Boss Lady

If you’re like me, you have quite a few boss ladies in your life. A “Boss Lady” can describe a variety of women, but they all have a few things in common. They are trendy, have big dreams, and go after their goals like momma’s running after toddlers. So whether the boss lady in your life is a young mom, grandma, right out of college, or somewhere between all of that….I am here to help you find something for the girl who has everything!

BossLady2018

Click the title or words in bold for a direct shopping link!

  1. 4 Things Tote: Check out these adorable tote bags! I haven’t met a woman who doesn’t love a good bag. These totes would be perfect for work or play. You can purchase premade bags, or create your own “4 Things” to put on a tote! When you give this gift, you’re also giving back to Haiti! Proceeds go to the Hope to Haiti mission which began to support a children’s orphanage in Port au Prince and now reaches many other causes in Haiti.
  2. Start Today Journal: If you follow me, you know I am low key obsessed with Rachel Hollis. No shame in my game! These journals are another level of LOVE for me. I truly believe in the power of affirmations and gratitude and this journal is both of those things. I think every lady (all ages and all stages of life) can benefit from this Start Today Journal. Hurry while they’re still in stock!
  3. Choose Joy Hat: This super, cute hat makes for a great weekend accessory. After a long work week, what boss babe wants to worry about doing their hair. Relax, throw the hair up in a pony, and rock this “Choose Joy” hat!
  4. Sparkle Hustle Grow Subscription: Big fan of subscriptions here! This one is perfect for working women with BIG dreams. Each box is full of accessories to jazz up your desk, a book that pertains to the month’s topic, and access to an online training. You really can’t go wrong giving this gift because it can be a tool for any Boss Babe no matter their career field.
  5. Headbands: These headbands are just too cute! These are great for keeping your hair up while working out/doing your makeup or just to accessorize on the weekends! They come in a ton of prints or solid colors. Check out the website to find the perfect print for your babe’s personality!
  6. Ember Travel Mug: It’s like Jesus read this blog and answered all of our prayers. Y’all, this mug keeps your drink at your preferred temperature! Can I get an amen?! I really can not even say anymore, this speaks for itself. YOU WILL BE LOVED FOREVER!
  7. Blue Light Blocking Glasses: While these glasses are stylish, they are actually saving your eyes! Seriously, we are constantly staring at screens…computers, phones, tvs, ipads, etc. It never stops and our eyes are getting tired much earlier in life than they should be. These glasses help block the blue light and reduce the stress on your eyes. Everyone can use these!
  8. Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel: For the Boss Babe that needs a little daily pampering and skincare, this leave on peel will do wonders for their skin. This peel improves skin texture and minimizes the appearance of pores, fine lines, and dark spots without irritation or over-drying. This brand is known for safer beauty because of the guidelines they follow for the ingredients they use. Show your love with safer beauty products!
  9. You are a Badass Book: I mean the title really speaks for itself. This book is great for personal and professional development. Treat the boss babe in your life to a gift that will inspire her!
  10. Essential Oil Diffuser: This is a beautiful diffuser that is great for the office or at home. Essential oils are great for the office because the scent is natural and you can adjust the strength to your preference. Here is also a link to a Calming Oil Blend: https://amzn.to/2Pj4U9b
  11. Rae Dunn Desk Pad: Whether she’s a Rae Dunn fanatic, or just loves organization, this desk pad is great for keeping lists and projects on schedule!
  12. Spanx Leggings: Finally, leggings that are comfy, flattering, and appropriate for the office. Pair these with a tunic and you have a Boss Babe outfit!
  13. Nespresso Machine: For the Boss Babe who has a Starbucks addiction, this is perfection. It may seem a little pricey, but imagine the money that will be saved in the long run. This little beauty just happens to be 35% off. Unlimited lattes for life…what a dream!

This list was so fun to put together, I would love to know what you would add!

Comment below with your favorite Boss Lady items.

 

As always, thanks for reading! Happy Shopping!

xoxo,

Brittany

 

 

 

 

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Gift Guide for the Dad

Dads can be next to impossible to shop for, am I right? This year, save the stress and check out the list below. If this list doesn’t have something for the man you’re shopping for then God bless you…just kidding! A gift card always works too…ALL men love Lowes®, right?

Dad2018 (1)

 As always, I try to make your job as easy as possible. To find these items for sale, click the title (underlined word) for a direct shopping link!

  1. Wireless Earbuds: Whether your man listens to music, podcasts, or books, good quality audio is always appreciated. Wireless earbuds make it easy for wearing during an intense workout or mowing the lawn. I think any guy would LOVE to find these under the tree this year!
  2. Adjustable Dumbbells: I am obsessed with these compact, adjustable dumbbells. Each dumbbell adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds, allows for a quick exercise switch, and eliminates the need for multiple dumbbells by unique dial system. If you’re short on space, this is the perfect solution! And to top it off, they’re $50 off here:
  3. Personalized Framing: Sounds simple, but this company can turn any memory into a beautiful keepsake. From framing jerseys to your first house key, this website has great gift ideas to turn a memory into gift that will be cherished forever.
  4. Brush Hero: The Original Brush Hero, perfect for the dad who loves his car, motorcycle, etc. It comes with two different brush heads for multiple surface types. The Brush Hero attaches to a water hose, no batteries or electricity is needed. There are multiple accessories and interchangeable brush heads for other types of cleaning.
  5. Master Lock Padlock: For the dad who uses a locker, this lock is controlled by a smartphone and Bluetooth. The technology makes is simple to use, but also has a backup keypad for easy opening. Whether the gym or at work, this lock is sure to make life easier and safer.
  6. Quip Electric Toothbrush: Before you roll your eyes at this gift sounding lame, give me a chance. This electric toothbrush is lightweight and shower safe, has a built-in timer and quadrant pulses to clean evenly, and the travel cover doubles as a stand and mirror mount. To make life even easier, you can subscribe to have the brush heads and battery delivered automatically to avoid over using brushes. You’re welcome!
  7. Spikeball Game Set: For the dad who enjoys a little competition for family bonding, this Spikeball Game Set might be a gift for everyone. My family takes this to the beach and even plays in the backyard. It’s a simple set up and always brings some laughs. Its currently $20 off here: https://amzn.to/2Qu6NnS
  8. Dollar Shave Club: Treat your dad to a little manly pampering! The Dollar Shave Club is a men’s subscription box for shaving, showering and oral care! This monthly subscription brings quality products to your door with customization options.
  9. Ben & Jerry’s Lock: For the ice cream loving dad, security! Check out these hilarious, but functional locks for your pints of ice-cream. This is sure to bring a laugh and your dad will be eternally grateful.
  10. Carharrt PantsCarharrt Pants: A classic but safe choice, Carharrt pants. Functional for outdoor work, yet stylish enough to run into town. Perfect for the colder weather and this brand is known for lasting many seasons!
  11. Ugg Boots: Because Uggs aren’t just for women! I had no clue Uggs made men’s boots, but I am glad I know now. They are guaranteed to be warm and comfy, with a stylish look! Perfect for the simple dressed dad or the fashionista dad!
  12. Faith Can Move Mountains Decal: For the faithful dad, this decal would be great for a laptop, car, or water bottle. This company started as a fundraiser for a mission trip, and continues to grow. I am loving this design, also available on a t-shirt on their website!

 

I hope you found this helpful and have some new ideas for the dad(s) in your life! Have other great ideas? I’d love to hear them. Post in the comments below!

 

Thanks for reading. Talk soon!

Xoxo,

Brittany

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Gift Guide for the Momma

Whether you’re a momma looking for ideas to forward to your husband…or you’re a husband who got directed to this site, I am here to HELP you!

Check out the list below for some of my favorite items that are perfect for MOMS! Scroll down below for details on ALL the items and shopping links! Most items are on SALE or I have provided a link for a DISCOUNT….Merry Christmas!

Mom2018.jpg

As always, I’ve tried to make your life a little easier.

For a direct shopping link, click the item name in the list below. 

Happy Shopping! XOXO

1. Leggings: There is nothing more exciting than NEW leggings! Either for working out, running errands, or getting housework done, LEGGINGS are the perfect and most comfy wardrobe for any lady!

My fave brand is Fabletics and  you can get 2 pairs for $24, if you click here. #amazing

I also love these from Amazon, click here.

2. Love Your Melon Hat: I am OBSESSED with this adorable hat brand. Love Your Melon is an amazing quality brand PLUS their mission goes to giving children with cancer hats. Support an amazing cause and give an amazing gift!

3. A Subscription Box: I haven’t met a woman who does not LOVE a surprise! There are so many subscription boxes out there with a lot of options. Whether you choose a one-time box or go for an entire year, it will be a HIT! FabFitFun would be an easy option because they are filled with something for everyone. Not to mention, it is full of high-end products that are worth way more than the cost. You cannot beat the price!

Here is link to get $10 off a box, click here.

4. Rothy’s: Shoes, because duh. These are the most comfortable shoes you could ever put on your feet. They have a style for every personality/occasion. The price may be a little shocking (discount link below), but they are washable and last FOREVER. I love that they look super stylish, but they are also the most comfortable shoes I own.

Here is a code for $20 off your order, click here.

5. Girl Wash Your Face: This book is for ALL females. It is one of my most favorite books of all time. This book is perfect for women of ALL ages! It’s currently 50% off on Amazon!

6. Silhouette Necklace: Mom’s melt over anything with their children’s initials, faces, etc. Check out these beautiful silhouette necklaces. They have an easy customization option, which allows you to send a photo of your child and they will create a sentimental piece of jewelry that any momma is sure to love!

7. A Gift that Gives Back: I recently came across GlobeIn., a company that sells items from around the world, offering employment to communities in need. They offer subscription or one-time purchase gift boxes, and with each purchase you can read exactly what has been provided. For instance, this Cozy Artisan Box, helped employ 85,000 farmers in Ghana, it provided 840 hours of flexible employment for 12 artisans in Thailand, and provided the equivalent of a full year of employment for 6 workers. How can you not feel good about purchasing these products made with purpose and providing so much to others? I love the mission of this company and all of the products are beautifully made. The Cozy Box includes: Hand-painted Malika Mug from Tunisia, Fair Trade Scarf from Thailand, Fair Trade Cocoa Powder from Ghana, and a Gallito Palm Leaf Basket from Oaxaca, Mexico. Visit the website for more options, there’s something for everyone!

8. Journaling Bible: I can’t NOT list this because it is one of my most favorite gifts I have ever received. There is nothing more relaxing than sitting down with some journaling pens, colored pencils, and my journal bible. I love reading passages, taking notes, and COLORING pictures to interpret in my own way.

Link to Journaling Bible:  https://amzn.to/2TRFEKm

Link to my favorite pens: https://amzn.to/2QnZVIB

And here are the colored pencils I use to color and highlight: https://amzn.to/2SeSsZN

ALL of these items are currently on SALE!

9. BeautyCounter’s Instant Awakening Trio: This set is on MY wish list this year. These are 3 of my favorite products together for a savings bundle! If you know a mom who is lacking sleep (every single one of them), they will love you forever after this gift

10.  Glossier Gift Set: This brand is EVERYWHERE right now, and for good reason! This is the perfect season for moisturizing skincare, and this is the perfect set for just that. It includes a cleanser, primer, and tinted lip balm. You will be set in the moisturizing department for the upcoming “dry” months!

11. Fawn Design Bag: Another product that is all the rage right now. These bags are so stylish and super functional. I am obsessed with this mini in the gray tone. It can be worn as a backpack or messenger bag. There is plenty of space for my things, plus a toddler drinking cup and whatever toys are necessary for an outing!

12. Madewell Jeans: For the mom who doesn’t normally splurge on herself, these jeans are the perfect gift! A little on the pricier side, but totally worth the quality. These are my favorite jeans. Super comfy and supportive in all the right places!

13. Hunter Boots: These boots are adorable and super functional for snow to rain season. For moms who do not have a lot of time to accessorize, these boots always finish off a look nicely!

 

 

 

 

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Gift Guide for the Toddler

Toddler Gift Guide (ages 1-4)

So, you would think your kids would be the easiest to shop for but I have found that is not always the case. This is my son’s third Christmas, and each year I struggle! Maybe because there are too many options or maybe because he would really be happy with a box…. if I’m being honest, probably both of those reasons.

Welcome to struggle city, hop on the bus and let’s go on a ride. Here I will help with some of the ideas I have come up with in the last couple years that have made great gifts for my toddler!

Toddler2018

Oh, and I tried to save you a little time. Just click right on the item title below for a direct link to the product on Amazon. XOXO!

  1. Magformers (30 piece): I don’t know who came up with this idea, but they were genius. My son loves playing with these whether we are at home or out to dinner, as they are super easy to take on the go. The idea of playing with magnets seem very simple, but these are sure to entertain a range in age for sure…even myself!
  2.  Amazon Fire Kids Edition Tablet: If you’re a strict “no screen time” parent, then this option is not for you. BUT I have found this to be a great investment, even though we only use it on rare occasions. We have a few favorite shows and some games downloaded. This is perfect for traveling or dinners that go a little too long. While I am not for having unlimited screen time, this has been perfect for those times when you just need to keep the attention a little bit longer. Have a mentioned this is a non-judgment, no mom shaming zone? Sometimes, you gotta do what you gotta do!
  3. Play Kitchen: I love this idea for boys & girls, plus there are so many cute options these days. Benjamin has this Retro Blue KidKraft Kitchen. It took a little more assembly than I would have liked, but it was totally worth it. It has held up well, and I think it is a great price!
  4. Activity/Train Table: I haven’t met a toddler who doesn’t love an activity table. My son has a Disney Cars® Racetrack Table that I found for a great deal last year at Costco. I wasn’t able to find that exact table, but I am loving this KidKraft Train Table.
  5. Kinetic Sand: Have you all got your hands in this stuff? It is amazing! Honestly, I look forward to when Ben wants to play with it because there’s something relaxing about playing in sand. It’s like a mini indoor sandbox……. that is CLEAN! Yes, it’s super easy to clean up. Don’t let the word “sand” scare you. I totally recommend this over and over again!
  6. Rody: This guy has become a member of our family… I am only sort of kidding. Rody is a toy that kids can ride and bounce. Rody’s come in multiple colors and the quality is unbeatable. This time of year, I am always trying to find ways to keep my son active indoors so this is a perfect solution. Two-year old’s have a lot of energy, and Rody never disappoints!
  7. Learning Tower Step Stool: If your littles love helping in the kitchen, this Learning Tower may be a great option for you. It’s a safe way to let your Little Partner be up at the counter with you without having to worry about slips and falls. The height is adjustable, so it grows with them. I love that this is multifunction with an easel on the side. My son loves being up at the counter with me whether I am cooking or he is working on a craft. This is one of my favorite “mom finds!”
  8. Magic Ink Coloring Books: These are no mess coloring books. Great for on the go or an easy activity at home. One marker, lots of colors! They come with all different characters and favorite shows. I always keep on in my bag for when we are eating out. Ben loves watching the colors appear like magic!
  9. Paints: Classic, yet dependable. Anything craft related is a win in my book. We have this paint set and it has been worth every penny. Benjamin LOVES painting and mixing colors. Not only is it fun, but he’s also improved with learning his colors.
  10. Photo Rhymes: The age recommendation for this set 3+ but we have been using them since Ben was 1.5. This set comes in a nice storage case and includes 40 double sided photo cards (20 sets of 4 rhymes). These cards are super fun, but have also been great for building vocabulary!
  11. Color Sorting Game: Here’s another “fun” option that is also educational. If you’ve been working on teaching colors, this is also great for sorting and counting. I love that it is wooden and made with all-natural products!
  12. Bath Collection: I am obsessed with all three of the bath products for kids. I even use the shampoo and conditioner for myself. I love knowing this company has a super high standard for ingredients and only uses the safest products!

Shopping link: https://www.beautycounter.com/brittanysmith1/contact

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