Photos by Matthew Strauss
Now that Hanukkah is right around the corner, we start to take mental notes on all that needs to be done: clean all the menorahs, buy the candles and oil, write the gift list – all while threatening the kids to behave or else NO Hanukkah gifts (yes, I still do that and it still works!). Then there are the schools’ Hanukkah performances, the holiday parties and attending “The Nutcracker” for the hundredth time.
Let’s face it, it’s a really crazy time of year for everyone and a favorite for most. I’m usually on it and try to have fun with the kids and create moments that really count with them, so time management is key. That’s why I love these easy, delicious recipes that you can literally whip up and serve in no time at all, or give them away as a tasty gift. Have fun making these treats and have a Happy Hanukkah!
Gooey S’Mores Bars
6 tablespoons butter
1 (10 oz.) bag mini marshmallows
1 (12 oz.) box mini graham crackers
¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
½ cup mini marshmallows for topping
¼ cup semisweet chocolate chips melted with ½ tsp avocado oil for drizzling on top (do this either over a double boiler or in the microwave)
Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large pot over low to medium heat, melt butter with mini marshmallows. Don’t allow to burn. Stir frequently and melt gently until smooth.
Take pot off of heat and stir in graham crackers. You can crunch up some if you like. Stir until mixture is totally combined.
Transfer mixture to another bowl (this will help it cool faster). Wait a few minutes before stirring in chocolate chips.
Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle remaining marshmallows and gently press down. Drizzle melted chocolate over the bars and let cool completely. Let cool at room temperature (do not refrigerate). Slice up and enjoy!
Laili’s Cookie Rum Balls
2½ cups crushed vanilla wafers
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
½ cup sugar
1 cup chopped walnuts
3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
¼ cup rum
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the vanilla wafers, cocoa and sugar. Stir in the chopped walnuts, condensed milk and rum. Mix until well blended.
Form dough into 2-inch balls and roll in confectioners’ sugar. Store in covered tin.
Note: you can use any toppings for these rum balls: sprinkles, nuts, shredded coconut or drizzle chocolate over them.
Lucia Schnitzer and her husband, Ken, own Luci’s Healthy Marketplace in Phoenix. The local coffee shop and marketplace opened in 2009 in Lucia’s honor after her successful battle with breast cancer. She successfully manages her career, her growing family (four children), her personal well-being and the countless demands of the day.
