Cranberry, Apple & Pecan Stuffing

Two years ago, I made this semi-homemade stuffing. It took just under 20 minutes to make and was full of flavor. When I made it the first time, I used fresh cranberries. We thought they were a little tart and opted for dried cranberries the second time. The sweetness of the cranberries combined with the crunch of the apples and nuts dresses up any boxed stuffing mix. The little cook time and delicious flavor will make it a  recipe you come back to time and time again.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups apple juice
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 package Stuffing Mix 6 oz package
• 1 small apple chopped
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or fresh
• 1/4 cup pecans chopped

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring juice and butter to a boil.
2. Add stuffing mix along with the cranberries and apples, mix lightly.
3. Once fruit is mixed in, remove from heat. Let it stand for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in pecans before serving.

Adapted from Kraft Foods

Valentine's Snack Mix

Now that we're into the new year, I've already started thinking about Valentine's Day. This year I'm planning on hosting a Valentine's Day playdate for a few of AG's friends.  When hosting playdates, I always make a snack mix for the kids. 

Snack mixes are usually a big hit at our playdates.  Chances are there is usually a few things in the mix that all of the kids will eat, no matter how picky. Kids can also help to make the mix, which makes things even more fun (and messy!)  I make sure to have little cups or even the small waffle ice cream cones make things fun for serving and even more fun for the kids to eat!

If you're looking for little Valentine's Day gifts, you can also package the snack mix in a cute jar with a tag and you're good to gift. Lots of possibilities, just a few ingredients and some happy littles. Enjoy! 

Ingredients: 

Berry Kix

Stick Pretzels

Strawberry Goldfish

M&M's

Mini Marshmallows

Vanilla Chex Mix

Directions: 

Mix ingredients in a bowl and serve!