Salted Caramel Strawberries

I first saw this recipe in my April 2009 Southern Living. It's been begging me to make them! Well, today is that day! I've made them for a Elf 'n Burritos. A night where our friends get together to eat burritos and watch the movie Elf. They are simple to make and very pretty. A perfect combination of sweet and salty. I think it's sure to be a crowd favorite! Sorry for the picture quality, it was taken with a phone.


Salted Caramel Strawberries

20 large fresh strawberries (rinsed and dried)
40 caramels
3 Tbsp whipping cream
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/4 cup coarsely chopped mixed nuts
Wax paper

Pat strawberries completely dry with paper towels.
Microwave caramels, 3 Tbsp whipping cream, and 1/4 tsp salt in a 1-qt microwave-safe bowl at MEDIUM (50%) power for 3 1/2 minutes, stirring at 1 minute intervals.
Dip each strawberry halfway into caramel mixture. Roll in nuts, and place on lightly greased wax paper. Let stand 15 minutes.
Serve immediately, or cover and chill up to 8 hours.

*I used the new Kraft Caramel bits, no wrappers!
*I would just use chopped peanuts next time.
*Definitely spray your wax paper. I know it's weird, but it'll keep the caramel from sticking.

Bran Muffins

This recipe makes a ton. Seriously. I have a specific large tupperware for when I make this. This is an ESSENTIAL make some a lady having a baby...for many reasons. It makes a ton and lasts for 6 weeks. Plus, all those key benefits of fiber! Enough said, enjoy!

Bran Muffins

1 cup oil
4 eggs, beaten
3 cups sugar (or splenda)
1 quart buttermilk
4 cups bran flakes
1 tsp salt
5 cups flour (or whole wheat flour)
5 tsp baking soda
2 cups All Bran
2 cups boiling water

In a small bowl, mix together boiling water and All Bran. Set aside.
Mix sugar and oil. Beat in eggs. Add buttermilk, flour, soda, and salt.
Add water and All Bran mixture. Fold in bran flakes.
Bake in greased muffin pans at 350 for 18-20 minutes.
Can be kept in refrigerator for 6 weeks.

*I usually do a mixture of regular sugar and splenda and regular flour and whole wheat flour.
*These are great with cinnamon and cut up apples. Or butter and syrup!