Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies

I found a recipe that I absolutely HAD to try. It looked too good not to! :) It's a very simple recipe (gotta love that) with lots of yummy-ness! Basically, you make a box brownie mix, pour it in an 9x13 pan, and set aside. Next, you make a pouch chocolate chip cookie mix (or homemade Choc. Chip cookies) and place rounded tablespoons of cookie dough evenly on the brownie mix. Pat the cookie rounds gently then bake 350 for 40 mins. I had to bake mine a little longer to make sure the brownies were cooked through (I hate undercooked brownies). After the brownies have cooled completely, spread chocolate frosting on top. Serve and enjoy! Here's how they turned out...

Homemade Bread

Well, today I decided to try something new. I made homemade bread for the first time. It is such a long process but, I believe, worth it in the end. I grew up eating my Mom's and Grandma's homemade bread (which, by the way, is the best homemade bread EVER) so that is kind of what I was expecting when I made mine. To say the least, mine didn't turn out quite like theirs. I guess I shouldn't have expected it since it's my first time and they've made bread for years but that's what I had in mind when I tasted my first warm, buttery slice of bread. Good, but not great. Looks like I have some practicing to do!

JJ sat on the kitchen counter in his Bumbo during the bread-making process happily playing with whatever was in reach. I talk to him while I bake, telling him of the coming days that I'll get to make and bake things for him! I remember coming home from school and the house smelling deliciously of bread or cookies and now, I look forward to the day that I can do that for my sweet boy! Until then, I'll keep practicing and Hubby will get to enjoy the results of my practice!

Cursed With A Sweet Tooth

I have a confession...it is 11:00 pm and I just made chocolate fudge brownies about an hour ago! I know I should be more health-conscious but they're so yummy! I must admit that I don't have the greatest self-control in this area of my life. I had a Dr. appointment last week and, hallelujah, I'm back to my pre-baby weight! Unfortunately, I've been using that as an excuse to continue eating the way that I do. I basically eat what I want, when I want. It's a bad habit that started when I was pregnant and has continued through the 7 1/2 months since JJ was born. Oh, well. I guess I'd better just enjoy it while I can because I know that one day this will all have to change.

Another bad habit I've accquired is baking when I'm bored. Since I'm home with JJ most of the day, I find myself getting cabin fever so I have to find something to do. I love to bake and I love sweets so it works out well for me - sort of. And my husband loves all the homemade goodies but doesn't like the consequences that come with it! I need to find healthy, yummy goodies to bake. That way, we'll all be happier and healthier! I could certainly use suggestions. Cooking and baking are 2 things that I really enjoy and I love trying new things. All ideas are welcome!