Make Modeling Chocolate -- An Easy Two-Ingredient Recipe For Cake and Dessert Decorating

A beautifully decorated cake does not necessarily require extravagant ingredients or a high level of expertise. Unlike gumpaste or fondant, the medium of modeling chocolate is easy to use and only requires two simple ingredients. From roses to whimsical figurines, all can be created using modeling chocolate.

Use Flaxseed in Recipes
Flaxseed can add a delicious nutty taste and aroma to many different recipes. It is extremely nutritious, containing large amounts of essential fatty acids and fiber. Flaxseed can be used in recipes in a variety of ways, and is most commonly found in baked goods. However, it also makes a great fat and/or egg substitute. Use any of these methods for adding flaxseed to your recipes. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Convert Old Recipes for Electric Pressure Cooker
An electric pressure cooker can allow you to enjoy your favorite recipes in a fraction of the time. Pressure cookers trap steam created during cooking and allows it to build up inside the cooker and cause pressure. These appliances can be extremely convenient for busy families who would like to enjoy homemade foods but don't have time to prepare recipes using the oven or stovetop. Plan to experiment with your recipes a few times to perfect their preparation in a pressure cooker. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Make Homemade Canned Crisp Dill Pickles - Easy Basic Recipe
If your garden produces more cucumbers than you can eat, consider canning some to make homemade dill pickles. Pick fresh cucumbers when they are firm, dark green in color and covered with bumps, or warts; these will make the crispest dill pickles. When your pickles are done, add a decorative label to each jar with the date the pickles were made. These make great homemade gifts for friends and family, so make an extra batch or two to share.

Make a Recipe Book as a Gift
Taking the time to create a personalized recipe book for a special book is worth the time it takes. Family members can each contribute a few recipes along with a little story about when and where the recipe originated. Then you can gather all these together, add a few photos and have it bound into book form. By letting children add their drawings and handwritten text, your recipe book will become a treasured keepsake. Personalized recipe books also make perfect gifts for new brides. Add this to my Recipe Box.