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It is very simple and helps keep my stress level down. I can make all
of it ahead of time and just set the table up later. I don't get fancy with the table
decorations, but do include a pretty poinsettia tablecloth and pretty holiday paper plates and napkins. It's now a tradition that everyone looks
forward to because it's easy and provides delicious snacks all day long. The best
part is that by using paper plates, there are no dishes or pots and pans to wash!
The only clean up involved is putting away any leftovers, that is, if there is
any!
Here are a few tips to plan your own snack buffet. When you have time,
take out a piece of paper and start writing down some possibilities. Write down any
recipes that come to mind as you read the following:
~ Trays of things to dip is always popular. I like to put out a veggie
platter with ranch dip (I use the packet of `Uncle Dans' found in the grocery store
to make the dip) and an assortment of crackers with my popular recipe `clam dip'.
~ A tray of sandwich makings. I load a tray with deli meats and
cheeses, and other sandwich makings such as onion, tomato, pickles, mayonnaise, and
mustard. You might try a tray of club sandwich makings or Reuben sandwich makings.
You can also experiment with different breads such as party rye or sourdough.
~ Cookies and Candies. Each year I make two or three of our family's
favorite recipes which are included below. What's your family's favorite cookie and
candy recipes?
~ Beverages. The Irish Cream recipe below served over ice is wonderful
and a special treat. We also buy pop and beer and this seems to make everyone happy.
You might have a favorite punch, eggnog or hot buttered rum recipe you'd like to serve.
~ Crunchy things. I always have the Chex mix out.
Don't forget that you can have family members or other guests
contribute! This will give you more variety and less work! Just tell them to bring
a snack type item.
Recipes
Clam Dip
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 (6-ounce) can minced clams, save juice
1 small garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
salt to taste
Combine cream cheese and clams. Stir in just enough clam juice to make
a nice consistency for dipping. Add remaining ingredients and thoroughly combine.
Serve or cover and chill. Serve with crackers or chips.
Toffee Treats
1/4 Box Saltine Crackers
1 Cup Sugar
1 Cup Butter or Margarine
1 large bag Chocolate Chips
Chopped Walnuts-Opt.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cover a large cookie sheet with aluminum
foil. Grease with butter. Cover with saltine crackers. Bring 1 cup sugar and
1 cup butter to a boil & continue to boil for 2 1/2 minutes. Pour over crackers &
spread fast. Bake 5-7 minutes. Spread a large bag of chocolate chips over, like icing. Top with chopped walnuts if desired.
Irish Cream
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1 14-oz. can sweetened condensed milk
1 2/3 c. Whiskey
1 tsp. instant coffee
2 Tbsp. chocolate syrup
1 tsp Vanilla
Put all the ingredients in a blender and mix on high for 30 seconds.
Refrigerate. Shake well before serving over ice. Should keep for at least 2 months.
Peanut Butter Bon Bons
1 - 1 Lb Box Powdered Sugar
2 Cubes Margarine (1 cup)
1 Cup Peanut Butter
Chocolate Chips or Chocolate Almond Bark
Mix all ingredients except chocolate. Shape into round balls. Chill.
Insert toothpick & dip into melted chocolate. Chill until set.
I know the recipes aren't for the health conscious, but it's only once
a year. Here's to hoping you have an `easy does it' Christmas celebration this year.
Copyright ©, 2003, Monica Resinger
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