IT’S TIME for embracing warmth, love, and the joy of sharing delicious meals with those closest to our hearts. As we endure the lingering winter days, here’s a selection of recipes filled with heartfelt comfort. From delightful treats perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day to nourishing dishes that evoke feelings of love and togetherness, indulge in the flavors that bring people together and create lasting memories. Join us as we celebrate from the heart. GN
Turtle Cheesecake: Submitted by Tammie Thorpe
1 1/2 c. chocolate wafer cookies, crushed
3 T. butter, melted
2 pkgs. cream cheese, 8 oz., softened
1/2 c. sugar
1 t. vanilla
2 eggs, room temperature
1/2 c. chocolate chips
1/2 c. pecans, chopped
1/2 c. caramel ice cream topping
In a medium mixing bowl, mix wafers and butter. Press into the bottom of a 9” pie pan. In a large mixing bowl, stir cream cheese until smooth. Stir in sugar and vanilla. Add eggs one at a time. Mix until batter is smooth. Pour mix into pie crust. Bake at 325 ̊ for 40 minutes or until slightly brown. Let cheesecake cool. While cake is baking, combine chocolate chips, pecans, and caramel topping in a medium bowl. When cake has baked, gently spread mixture over top of cake. Place in refrigerator until cool.
Death by Chocolate: Submitted by Lisa Scott
2 pkgs. chocolate mousse mix
1 lg. pkg. whipped topping
1 pan baked brownies
1⁄4 c. Kahlua®
8 Heath® bars, crushed
1 c. pecans, chopped
Prepare chocolate mousse as directed. Fold whipped topping into mousse and set aside. Crumble 1⁄2 of the brownies into a 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle Kahlua® over brownies. Sprinkle 1⁄2 of the Heath® bars and the pecans over the brownies. Spread 1⁄2 chocolate mousse on top. Layer remaining brownies, Heath® bars, and mousse. Chill before serving.
The Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies: Submitted by Rose Hamner
1 1/2 c. shortening
2 1/2 c. brown sugar
4 T. milk
2 t. vanilla
2 eggs
3 1/2 c. AP flour
2 t. salt
1 1/2 t. baking soda
1 bag chocolate chips
2 c. pecan pieces
In a large mixing bowl, beat shortening and brown sugar. Add milk, vanilla, and eggs. In a medium mixing bowl, sift together flour, salt, and baking soda. Add to the creamed mixture. Stir in chocolate chips and pecan pieces. Drop by spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake at 350° for 8-10 minutes.
