Tasty Thursdays #19

Thank you so much to everyone that took the time to contribute to last week's party.   I know with Thanksgiving it was a crazy week.  I enjoyed seeing all of the great link ups!!

Head over and "like" my Facebook page.  Once I get 500 "likes" I will do a fun giveaway.  

I'm so close!!!!

In case you missed my most recent blog post...please check it out.  These Homemade Christmas Bows are an easy addition to your gifts this year.

Now on to the terrific FEATURES from last week's party.
Be sure to visit them, pin them, and enjoy them!!

Light-up Christmas Lantern from Pink Polka Dot Creations

Lalaloopsy Sugar Cookies from Pint Sized Baker

White Tulle Christmas Wreath from Adorned From Above

Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes with Sage from Flavors by Four

 Congrats to you all.  Feel free to grab a "Featured" button. 

Now on to the next party!!
New features will be posted next Thursday!!

<div align="center"><a href="http://www.mandatorymooch.blogspot.com" title="The Mandatory Mooch" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-maCAKzy_8N0/UA84BtuDhUI/AAAAAAAAAcw/VDpHnk0w_ts/s800/moochblogTHURS.jpg" alt="The Mandatory Mooch" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

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Party Guidelines:
**If you "like" my Facebook page, you will see some of your links featured over the next week.
**I will also be pinning some of my favorites each week after the party is over.

1. Grab my button or add a text link somewhere on your post.  If you don't link back...you can't be featured.

2. Would love for you to follow me through Facebook, GFC, Pinterest, or all.

3. Link something new {MUST BE MADE BY YOU} or a great oldie that you haven't shared before.

4. No etsy shops, giveaways, round ups, business links, please.

5. Link up to your post, not your main blog

6. Link as many items, recipes, crafts, etc... as you want.

Now I want to see what you find tasty this week!

Homemade Christmas Bows

This year I am making my own Christmas Bows.  I got inspired after using the Bowdabra bow making tool earlier this year.  It has made it super easy for me to create fun decorations for my gifts within minutes.  Did you see my review of the Bowdabra?  You can view it HERE.  These bows are all made by using the scrunchy bow technique.   Want this tool?  You can find it at most craft and retail stores.  Enjoy!!

Aren't they fun!!!!

I couldn't resist taking this picture and sharing.  Our kitty, Rosco, laying under the tree.

Source: a Mandatory Mooch original

Linked up to THESE GREAT PARTIES!!!! 

Quick and Easy M&M Cookies

Who has a package of M&Ms laying around?  Aren't they just asking to be mixed into these yummy cookies?  I love this recipe.  It is super quick and easy with only a few ingredients.  A great treat to make for last minute guests or gathering.  The cake mix keeps them soft and moist.  Hope they go as fast in your house as they did in mine.

Makes approx. 18 large cookies

Ingredients:

1 yellow cake mix

2 eggs

1/3 c. vegetable oil

3 Tbsp. water

1 c. M&Ms

Directions:
1.  Mix together cake mix, eggs, oil and water until well combined.  Stir in M&Ms.
2.  Drop by heaping spoonfuls onto cookie sheet. 
3.  Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.  Let cool completely.

Source: a Mandatory Mooch original recipe

Linked up to THESE GREAT PARTIES!!!! 

Turkey Cookies

My oldest daughter and I made these cute little turkeys yesterday.  Unfortunately my younger daughter was very sick with the flu.  Poor little thing!!  So my hubby and older daughter took these to my family gathering.  They were a hit.  Thanksgiving may be over, but you can always save this idea for next year!!

Ingredients:
1 package chocolate almond bark (or any other chocolate that you prefer)
Oreo cookies
candy corn
small tube of green decorating gel (we used Betty Crocker)
small tube of yellow decorating gel 
orange Starbursts

Directions:

Melt bark or chocolate in microwave in 30 second increments until stirred smooth.  Dip Oreos until covered.  Lay on waxed paper.

Add 5 candy corn while coating is still wet to form feathers.  Let dry completely.

Cut Starbursts into small triangles for the beak.

Add green gel frosting for eyes.  Use small amount of yellow gel frosting or melted bark as glue for beak.

The finished treat.  Aren't they cute?!?!

Source:  "mooched" and adapted from Candiquik

Tasty Thursdays #18

Thank you so much to everyone that took the time to contribute to last week's party.  There were 136 linkups...a new record.  Lets see if we can make it 150 this week!!

Head over and "like" my Facebook page.  Once I get 500 "likes" I will do a fun giveaway.  

I'm so close!!!!

In case you missed my most recent blog post...please check it out.  These Ranch Oyster Crackers will be a fun and easy addition to your holiday gatherings.

Now on to the terrific FEATURES from last week's party.
Be sure to visit them, pin them, and enjoy them!!

Grilled Monte Zuma Sandwiches from ZENTMRS & the MR

Decorated Clothespins from Posed Perfection

Amazing Almond Peach Cobbler from Pink Polka Dot Creations

Scarf from an Old Sweater from allons-y kimberly

Stuffed Chicken Meatballs from Cooking to Perfection

Congrats to you all.  Feel free to grab a "Featured" button. 

Now on to the next party!!
New features will be posted next Thursday!!

<div align="center"><a href="http://www.mandatorymooch.blogspot.com" title="The Mandatory Mooch" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-maCAKzy_8N0/UA84BtuDhUI/AAAAAAAAAcw/VDpHnk0w_ts/s800/moochblogTHURS.jpg" alt="The Mandatory Mooch" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

<div align="center"><a href="http://www.mandatorymooch.blogspot.com" title="The Mandatory Mooch" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qkIksn40pLI/UA9e6vIZlDI/AAAAAAAAAdg/mE_NGKGbljY/s800/moochblogTHURSfeature.jpg" alt="The Mandatory Mooch" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

Party Guidelines:
**If you "like" my Facebook page, you will see some of your links featured over the next week.
**I will also be pinning some of my favorites each week after the party is over.

1. Grab my button or add a text link somewhere on your post.  If you don't link back...you can't be featured.

2. Would love for you to follow me through Facebook, GFC, Pinterest, or all.

3. Link something new {MUST BE MADE BY YOU} or a great oldie that you haven't shared before.

4. No etsy shops, giveaways, round ups, business links, please.

5. Link up to your post, not your main blog

6. Link as many items, recipes, crafts, etc... as you want.

Now I want to see what you find tasty this week!

Ranch Oyster Crackers

Yummy!!  Don't these look like a tasty, salty, crunchy treat?  This was a terrific recipe that I discovered last year for the holiday season.  It is a super quick recipe that will be devoured in minutes.  Great for a last minute appetizer!!

Ingredients:
1 (1 oz) package ranch dressing mix
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 bag oyster crackers
 

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 250°.  

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine first 4 ingredients and mix well. 

3. Stir in oyster crackers mix to coat. Pour crackers onto a large cookie sheet.  

4. Bake 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes.  

5. Cool and add store in a covered container.

Source:  "mooched" and adapted from www.examiner.com  

Linked up to THESE GREAT PARTIES!!!! 

Ranch Cheeseball

It's that time of year...holiday gatherings are being organized, gifts are being bought.  This is a super easy recipe that I like to serve at parties and holiday gatherings.  It can be made days ahead of time too.  Don't let the stress of entertaining get to you.  Enjoy this simple recipe instead!!

Ingredients:
2 pkgs. cream cheese, softened
1 pkg. Hidden Valley Ranch dry dressing mix
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1 1/2 c. chopped pecans

Directions:
1.  Mix cream cheese, ranch mix, and cheddar cheese together.  Let chill in refrigerator.
2.  After firm, form into a ball and roll in pecans.
3.  Serve with your favorite crackers.

Source: a Mandatory Mooch original recipe

Linked up to THESE GREAT PARTIES!!!! 

Tasty Thursdays #17

I'm still recovering from a fun long weekend getaway with my family.  New posts are on the way!!

Thank you so much to everyone that took the time to contribute to last week's party.  What a great group of recipes, crafts and projects!!  I always enjoy looking at each link.
Keep passing the word!!

Head over and "like" my Facebook page.  Once I get 500 "likes" I will do a fun giveaway.  
I'm so close!!!!

Now on to the terrific FEATURES from last week's party.
Be sure to visit them, pin them, and enjoy them!!

DIY Purse Camera Bag Tutorial from Wine & Glue

BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Buns from Love Bakes Good Cakes

Easy Ranch Rolls from The Busy Bee's

How To Tie a Perfect Ribbon: Holiday Gift Wrapping from Bowdabra

Sweet Potato Cake with Cream Cheese Icing from Farm Flavor

Congrats to you all.  Feel free to grab a "Featured" button. 

Now on to the next party!!
New features will be posted next Thursday!!

<div align="center"><a href="http://www.mandatorymooch.blogspot.com" title="The Mandatory Mooch" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-maCAKzy_8N0/UA84BtuDhUI/AAAAAAAAAcw/VDpHnk0w_ts/s800/moochblogTHURS.jpg" alt="The Mandatory Mooch" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

<div align="center"><a href="http://www.mandatorymooch.blogspot.com" title="The Mandatory Mooch" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qkIksn40pLI/UA9e6vIZlDI/AAAAAAAAAdg/mE_NGKGbljY/s800/moochblogTHURSfeature.jpg" alt="The Mandatory Mooch" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

Party Guidelines:
**If you "like" my Facebook page, you will see some of your links featured over the next week.
**I will also be pinning some of my favorites each week after the party is over.

1. Grab my button or add a text link somewhere on your post.  If you don't link back...you can't be featured.

2. Would love for you to follow me through Facebook, GFC, Pinterest, or all.

3. Link something new {MUST BE MADE BY YOU} or a great oldie that you haven't shared before.

4. No etsy shops, giveaways, round ups, business links, please.

5. Link up to your post, not your main blog

6. Link as many items, recipes, crafts, etc... as you want.

Now I want to see what you find tasty this week!

Tasty Thursdays #16

I've taken on the task of being Cookie Mom for both of my girl's Girl Scout troops.  My basement is full of cookies and deliveries are being made.  After that is complete this weekend it will give me more time to work on new recipe posts.  So, hang in there...new fun posts are on the way!!

Thank you so much to everyone that took the time to contribute to last week's party.  What a great group of recipes, crafts and projects!!  I always enjoy looking at each link.
Keep passing the word!!

Head over and "like" my Facebook page.  Once I get 500 "likes" I will do a fun giveaway.  
I'm so close!!!!

In case you missed my most recent blog post...please check it out.  These Oreo Drizzle Cookies are a fast fix for a last minute gathering.

Now on to the terrific FEATURES from last week's party.
Be sure to visit them, pin them, and enjoy them!!

Homemade Gumdrops from Chocolate, Chocolate and More



Cookie Dough Truffle Cake Balls from Lemons for Lulu

Owl Pops from Angela, Herself

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Caramel Pecan Glaze from Winnish

Terrible Horrible No Good Really Bad Day Macaroni and Cheese from Fresh Eggs Daily

Congrats to you all.  Feel free to grab a "Featured" button. 

Now on to the next party!!
New features will be posted next Thursday!!

<div align="center"><a href="http://www.mandatorymooch.blogspot.com" title="The Mandatory Mooch" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-maCAKzy_8N0/UA84BtuDhUI/AAAAAAAAAcw/VDpHnk0w_ts/s800/moochblogTHURS.jpg" alt="The Mandatory Mooch" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

<div align="center"><a href="http://www.mandatorymooch.blogspot.com" title="The Mandatory Mooch" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qkIksn40pLI/UA9e6vIZlDI/AAAAAAAAAdg/mE_NGKGbljY/s800/moochblogTHURSfeature.jpg" alt="The Mandatory Mooch" style="border:none;" /></a></div>

Party Guidelines:
**If you "like" my Facebook page, you will see some of your links featured over the next week.
**I will also be pinning some of my favorites each week after the party is over.

1. Grab my button or add a text link somewhere on your post.  If you don't link back...you can't be featured.

2. Would love for you to follow me through Facebook, GFC, Pinterest, or all.

3. Link something new {MUST BE MADE BY YOU} or a great oldie that you haven't shared before.

4. No etsy shops, giveaways, round ups, business links, please.

5. Link up to your post, not your main blog

6. Link as many items, recipes, crafts, etc... as you want.

Now I want to see what you find tasty this week!

Oreo Cookies - Co-Host on Mommy's Sweet Confessions

Today I'm a co-host on Mommy's Sweet Confessions.  Please head over to Lindsay's wonderful site, say hello, and link up to her party.  Here is what I posted along with my newest recipe.

***********************************************************

Hello everyone!  My name is Nichi (sounds like Niki) and I blog over at The Mandatory Mooch.  I'm honored to be a co-host here today....thanks, Lindsay!!  Growing up I was always mooching food off of my dad. Hence my nickname "Mooch". To me there are certain foods out there that you just have to have...therefore, making them a "mandatory mooch" if someone has it.

I am a born and raised Kansas girl who loves family and food.  As a wife and working mother of two wonderful little girls, life can get crazy.  Many of the recipes that I tend to use are quick and easy...no crazy ingredients that you have to search for.  Just simple good food that can make my family happy.  

Today I'm sharing my latest creation Oreo Drizzle Cookies.  I hope you enjoy.  

Please stop on over any time and say hi!!
Blog~Facebook~Pinterest

I also host a weekly linky party Tasty Thursdays.  Hope to see you there.

Makes approx. 25-30 cookies

Ingredients:

1 white cake mix

2 eggs

1/3 c. vegetable oil

3 Tbsp. water

8 crushed Oreo cookies

8 Oreos broken into 1/4 pieces
almond bark or white chocolate, melted

Directions:
1.  Mix together cake mix, eggs, oil and water until well combined.  Stir in crushed Oreos.
2.  Drop by spoonfuls onto cookie sheet.  Top with 1/4 piece of Oreo.
3.  Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.  Let cool completely.
4.  Drizzle with almond bark or white chocolate. I used a cake decorating bag to pipe over the cookies.

Enjoy!!  ~ Nichi

Source: a Mandatory Mooch original recipe

Linked up to THESE GREAT PARTIES!!!! 

Oreo Drizzle Cookies

My husband showed up at my office one day just before lunchtime last week.  He had poker that night at a neighbor's house and asked if I was making anything for him to take.  It caught me off guard...it was a crazy week and I hadn't planned anything.  However, he told me "you can't let the guys down".  Oh boy, there it was the pressure to perform.  And most of them knew I have a food blog.  I had to figure out something quick to make during my lunch break.  Keep in mind, I have one hour for lunch and it takes me about 6 minutes to get home and another back to work.  So, I ransacked my cabinets and created these tasty treats.  They were a hit.  My daughter deemed them her new favorite and I made them for her Halloween party at school.  So, there you have it...a simple large batch of cookies that will take less than an hour to create start to finish.

Makes approx. 25-30 cookies

Ingredients:

1 white cake mix

2 eggs

1/3 c. vegetable oil

3 Tbsp. water

8 crushed Oreo cookies

8 Oreos broken into 1/4 pieces
almond bark or white chocolate, melted

Directions:
1.  Mix together cake mix, eggs, oil and water until well combined.  Stir in crushed Oreos.
2.  Drop by spoonfuls onto cookie sheet.  Top with 1/4 piece of Oreo.
3.  Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.  Let cool completely.
4.  Drizzle with almond bark or white chocolate. I used a cake decorating bag to pipe over the cookies.

Source: a Mandatory Mooch original recipe

Linked up to THESE GREAT PARTIES!!!!