Sunday, July 25, 2010

favorite frosting

I made this frosting last week and it is definitely my favorite frosting EVER!
I used regular vanilla, because I was coloring the frosting blue, but I will definitely try clear vanilla, Mexican vanilla, and maybe some other flavors -like orange on lemon cupcakes or something. I'll try to keep you posted on how these work!

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream, whipped very stiff- just before the butter stage
Hint: Chill the mixer and beaters in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before mixing to help the cream hold up

Mix separately:
8 oz cream cheese
1 3/4 c powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1/8 tsp salt

When cream cheese mixture is well mixed and creamy, fold into the whipped cream. if using color add it at this point. Use paste frosting, or add a bit more sugar if using drops as this is a very lightweight frosting. It can now be spread, or I put it into a gallon size freezer bag, cut out the corner and piped it in circles onto cupcakes.
SO Delicious!!!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

pink lemonade pie

One of my FAVORITE summer treats, and so easy too!

Makes a 9x13 pan

Graham cracker crust:
1 pkg graham crackers
4-6 TBSP melted butter
1-2 TBSP sugar

Smash graham crackers into crumbs. Add melted butter and sugar to taste and texture desired. Press into bottom of 9x13" pan.

Filling:
1/2 gallon regular vanilla ice cream
8 oz Minute Maid frozen pink lemonade concentrate (I like Minute Maid because it is a stronger concentrate [4 1/3:1 as opposed to the regular 3:1] so you can use less and the pie stays creamy , but the flavor is still strong)

Let ice cream soften slightly and pink lemonade concentrate defrost but still be cold. Mix together in large mixing bowl. Add pink food coloring if desired to reach desired color. Gently scoop over graham cracker crust and smooth out, pressing into all corners. cover and re- freeze until ready to serve.

This is beautiful on a plate with raspberry syrup swirled underneath the pie or with a mint sprig and a few raspberries on top.

Enjoy!