Showing posts with label Sylvestermouse. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sylvestermouse. Show all posts

Friday, April 3, 2026

Moist and Delicious Carrot Cake Recipe Review

Not all carrot cakes are created equal!

carrot cake recipe

Many times I have heard people say they did not like carrot cake.  They tried a layered carrot cake from a grocery store or in a coffee shop that, while beautifully decorated, tasted dry and yucky.  Let me encourage all of you to try again, but make the cake yourself.  This recipe will change your opinion of carrot cake and totally rock your world of desserts.  You will never think of carrot cake the same way again.  

For many years, I have been making this carrot cake recipe.  Everyone loves it.  Even I, who normally hate nuts in anything, love this cake and the nuts don't bother me one bit.  Of course, I chop them up very fine with my nut chopper.  Therefore, we get the nut flavor without having to contend with chomping or choking on larger nuts. 

As for the "dry cake" issue, this single layer carrot cake is quite moist and delicious.  Plus, it has a glaze icing that soaks into the cake, as well as a cream cheese frosting.  We like to heat each individual slice in the microwave for 20 seconds before serving so the cream cheese icing melts slightly.  If it has been refrigerated for more than a day, the microwave heating takes about 5 seconds longer.  

 

Moist Carrot Cake Recipe 

This cake recipe takes longer to make than most cake recipes that I bake, but it is worth it!  The cake is baked, of course, but the glaze icing is cooked on the stove top.  The cream cheese frosting is spread on top of the cake after it is refrigerated for 2 hours or more.  So, it isn't quick, but as I said, it is well worth the extra time and attention.

One big tip I like to share, when using a hand mixer, I set my mixing bowl in my kitchen sink to eliminate the splatter across my counter tops.  It definitely makes for a faster clean-up.

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups & 4 Tablespoons Swans Down Cake Flour (or all purpose flour: 2 cups)
  • 1 Tablespoon baking soda
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup canola oil (plus more for pan)
  • ¾ cup buttermilk 
  • 3 large eggs  
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained  
  • 1 cup shredded coconut (I use Angel Flake shredded coconut)
  • 1 cup finely chopped pecan pieces
  • 2 cups grated carrots (4-6 carrots needed)
  • _____

  • Ingredients for the Cake syrup (made separately - see recipe below)
    ½ cup buttermilk
    1½ sticks Unsalted butter  (6 ounces)
    1 cup sugar
    1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Ingredients for the Cream cheese frosting (made separately - see recipe below)
    8 oz cream cheese
    1½ sticks Unsalted butter 
    2 cups confectioners sugar

 

Directions

     
    carrot cake batter
  1. Set out 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter to heat to room temperature even though it won't be needed until you make the syrup recipe
  2.  
  3.  Generously grease a 9x13-inch cake pan 
  4.  Preheat oven to 325°  (Convection Bake 300°) 
  5.  Grate Carrots & Chop pecans
  6.  Combine cake flour, baking soda, sugar, salt and cinnamon in a large mixing bowl & stir together 
  7.  In a separate bowl & using a mixer, mix canola oil, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla extract, crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, chopped pecans and grated carrots
  8.  Combine the wet ingredients with the flour mixture, mixing well 
  9.  Pour batter into oiled pan 
  10.  Bake approximately 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean  
_________ 

Start the syrup recipe (see below) 10 minutes BEFORE cake is out of oven so it will be ready when the cake is removed from the oven

 

Cake Syrup Recipe

  • 1 cup sugar 
  • ½ cup buttermilk 
  • 1½ sticks unsalted butter, room temperature 
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
Using a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine ingredients. Cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved. – Takes about 5 min. in my *Magnalite pan
  1. While the cake is still hot, poke holes all over the top with a large fork
  2. Pour the cake syrup over the top, allowing cake to soak up the syrup.  Use a spoon if needed to redistribute the syrup that gathers at the sides 
  3. Refrigerate cake until completely cool (minimum of 2 hrs)
  4. Set out 1½  sticks unsalted butter & Cream Cheese to heat to room temperature for frosting recipe below  

     

    Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

    • 1½ sticks unsalted butter, room temperature 
    • 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature 
    • 2 cups confectioners sugar 

    Combine ingredients - Using an electric mixer on medium speed, mix until smooth and free of lumps.  

    Then frost the cooled cake

     

    frosted carrot cake

    In the directions above, I mentioned using my *Magnalite pan to cook the syrup.  Wagnerware Sidney Magnalite (produced in the 1930's and only available through secondary markets like eBay or antique stores) is my preferred pan for cooking candy & glazes.  It is heavy and has superior heat conductivity.  Current day Magnalite is not the same as the Wagnerware Magnalite of the past that was made in Sidney, Ohio.  While I highly recommend Wagnerware Magnalite, any heavy stainless steel saucepan should work fine to make this simple glaze.  

     

     

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    Carrot Cake Recipe Written by:
    House of Sylvestermouse






    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Friday, March 27, 2026

    Easter Milk-Bones for Dogs - The Perfect Puppy Easter Treat Reviewed

    Milk-Bone Peeps
    I discovered holiday Milk-Bones last Christmas while shopping for a special treat for our puppy.  I was thrilled to find treats as a special gift for our baby dog.  With Easter approaching, I searched for Easter Milk-Bones and was elated to find an adorable box of Easter Peeps!  I immediately purchased a box.  When they arrived, I couldn't make myself wait to give our baby dog his new treats.  

    I opened the box and the smell was so wonderful it made me want to start munching on them.  Watson, our puppy, came running!  He was quite tempted by the smell too and immediately stuffed his little "big nose" in the box.  

    Like the Christmas Milk-Bones, he has a preferred shape.  The Easter Peeps have bunnies, chicks, and bone shaped Milk-Bones.  Watson prefers the bunnies, which I think is hilarious.  I just don't know why the bunnies (which are long shapes) instead of the round-ish chicks, appeal to him.  Now, whenever he minds me, he immediately sits down by his Easter Peeps awaiting his reward.

    Now, please don't tell Watson, but I have already purchased two more pails of Easter treats for him to get on Easter.  I plan to have a Easter Milk-Bone hunt.  I am sure my little active companion will love a fun hunt for Milk-Bone Easter Peeps.

     

    Milk-Bone Easter Peeps

     Milk-Bone Peeps Artificially Marshmallow
    Flavored Dog Treats, 22 Oz. Pail
    Check Price

    Milk-Bones Easter Peeps

    The Easter Peeps come in a pail with an adorable picture on the front, which appeals to the humans.  Our puppy loves the taste and the smell of his marshmallow flavored biscuits.

    The pail is durable enough that it could be refilled and used for original Milk-Bone biscuits.  It is lightweight and has easier hand access than the standard Milk-Bone rectangle box packaging.  It also has a handle for carrying which would make it very convenient when traveling. 

    Needless to say, the Milk-Bone Easter Peeps and their box are a hit with both parents and their babies.  Oops, I mean doggies.

    Milk-Bone Bunny Peep

        

     

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    Friday, March 20, 2026

    National Puppy Day Reviewed - March 23

    National Puppy Day Review
    I don't review national holidays very often.  I normally leave those special day reviews to Wednesday Elf, who loves celebrating individual days set aside for unique events.  However, when I noted that March 23 is National Puppy Day, I could not resist!  After all, we brought home a sweet puppy a few months ago and discovered the true meaning of unconditional love once again.

    Watson, our baby dog, loves everyone in the household.  He doesn't know how to withhold affection.  Even when he teethes on our hands or wrists, he does so lovingly.  Of course, we immediately seek out a nonliving object for him to transfer that particular show of love.  He really can't help it.  He is a teething baby and those little bites are just a big part of his puppy day and play.  Almost daily, someone in our home will remark that one day we will miss the teething terror.

    Our baby Watson loves company in the backyard.  He runs, and jumps, leaps and runs some more.  His favorite games are fetching the balls his daddy tosses for him and chasing the birds.  He has never harmed a bird, he just likes making them fly.  

     

    Fun Times with a Puppy 

    puppy dog
    The buffalo was a Christmas gift from his 
    sister & brother-in-law in Buffalo, NY
    There is nothing more beautiful than opening the back door and watching Watson run as fast as the wind toward his daddy.  Our baby dog doesn't realize that at 5 months old, his is no longer the 15 lb baby we brought home.  Actually, neither Watson, nor his daddy, realize that he weighs almost 70 lbs now.  I don't know the exact calculation (since I have never gauged his running speed), but I do know 70 lbs flying straight at you has increased force when it hits.  Definitely enough to knock an unprepared recipient to the ground.  Fortunately, his daddy is always prepared for his greetings of love.

    It really doesn't matter how long one of us is away, whether it is 5 minutes or 5 hours, Watson is there with a welcoming jump, lick, nip, and game-time call.  If he could speak, I have no doubt his favorite words would be "play ball!"  

    Dinnertime is also a great joy for Watson.  That baby loves to eat!  He is the perfect addition to our household.  We all love to eat and we all enjoy giving him treats.  

    We chose to adopt a Labrador Retriever because we have had such great success with them in the past.  The are almost completely housebroken by the time they are weaned from their mothers.  Wetting accidents are extremely rare for Labs.  Those accidents can be attributed to the humans slow response time because the puppy lets you know the minute he needs out.  Too bad if you need time to dress before you throw open your back door.  

    The key to having a happy puppy, even a very active Labrador Retriever, is to be active and loving yourself.  Any puppy of any breed requires patience and love, but they are always worth it!

    Remember, puppy = baby.  They are learning at that stage, but they will grow up to be a fabulous companion.

     

    Celebrate National Puppy Day on March 23!

    The end of March is the perfect time to adopt a puppy.  You have the entire spring, summer, and fall ahead to work with them outdoors.  By the following winter, you and your puppy will be almost fully trained to behave properly. 

     

    The picture in the introduction is a picture of Watson when he was 11 weeks old.  This is his picture at 5 months old.  What a difference a few months makes!  In our opinion, he is still the most adorable, lovable puppy ever!

     

    Happy National Puppy Day, Baby Dog! 

    Labrador Retriever

     




    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Friday, March 13, 2026

    An Unconventional Lady by Sarah E. Ladd - Book Review

    an unconventional lady book cover
    This book is not my normal Regency Romance to read.  It is more of a mystery than a romance, which was nice for a change.  

    It took a few pages to grab my interest, mostly because I was not familiar with the term phrenology.  That pseudoscience was long ago debunked.  It claimed there was a way to determine ones intellect, morality, and personality traits by the shape of their head/skull.  I am sure there are many criminologists and detectives who would like for it to be a true science.  It certainly would be easier to determine who was likely to commit a crime, to lie, or to be unfaithful.

    As always, the Regency Romance was set in the early 1800's when women were not given very much independence.  This book was also unique in that sense because the main character was encouraged by her parents to be educated, to think for herself, and to really consider a subject instead of just accepting it as presented. 

    It also offered a unique setting by taking place at Keatley Hall School for Young Men, which was established by Ella Wilde's grandfather.  Her grandfather was the first headmaster.  He was succeeded by Ella's father even though her mother was her grandfather's daughter.  With this decision, it was established that the daughter's husband would be the next headmaster.  Selecting a headmaster was paramount to selecting Ella's husband, and Ella was not fond of her father's choice.  

     

    Synopsis of An Unconventional Lady

     An Unconventional Lady: A Low-Spice Regency RomanceCheck PriceElla is faced with several issues all at once.  First, she wasn't keen on the man her father had chosen as her husband and the next headmaster for the school.  Second, she would soon be required to serve as hostess for the upcoming symposium on Phrenology, a theory she could not logically embrace.  And last, her mother had been "analyzed" and the results had been documented in an unflattering published pamphlet.  Unfortunately, her mother had died and was unable to defend herself.  Plus, how she died in a fire allowed a lot of speculation on the cause of the fire.  Some thought her mother must have been responsible.

    When Ella encounters Gabriel Rowe, a previous Keatley Hall School student, she is immediately drawn to him.  The fact that he is loyal to Keatley Hall makes him even more attractive to her.  

    Gabriel is a London solicitor who has been hired to investigate the speaker at the upcoming symposium.  Ella personally invites him to Keatley Hall and the symposium so he has a way to investigate Thomas Bauer, the phrenologist speaker and demonstrator, without drawing suspicion. 

    The events that follow, as well as the discovery of past truths, make this an intriguing book to read.  The touch of mystery and suspense, coupled with the budding romance between Ella and Gabriel, make the perfect combination for a great book.         



     
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    Friday, March 6, 2026

    Book Review of Hazelhurst - Families of Dorset Series by Martha Keyes

    Hazelhurst book cover
    Hazelhurst
    is book 4 of the Families of Dorset Regency Romance series.  I am sad to say that I finished reading the series last night.  As with all good books, I wish there were more.  

    Each of the books in this series introduces us to a young woman of the Regency era in British history.  It was a time when society and family pressure to 'marry correctly' dominated lives.  As much as I am intrigued by the books written about the time period, I am most often reminded of how grateful I am that I was not born during that time period.  Still, I remain intrigued by it. 

    Like many readers, I was originally drawn into Regency romance fiction by Jane Austen and the Bennet family in Pride and Prejudice, as well as the Dashwood daughters of Sense and Sensibility.  At a very young age, these books introduced me to a real part of history, their homes, the British peerage (the hierarchy of nobility), even their fashion, but mostly to the dominance of lineage.  Like so many things, the facade is beautiful.

    I have read and reviewed several books by Martha Keyes.  She does a wonderful job of creating unique situations for us to read about and consider.  Hazelhurst is an excellent example of how Keyes involves her readers in the life of her fictional character and makes us feel a range of emotions for our new friend.

     

    Synopsis of "Hazelhurst" by Martha Keyes    

     Hazelhurst: A Sweet Regency Romance
    (Families of Dorset Book 4)
    Check Price
    Lady Anne Vincent Haywood is devastated by the loss of her husband.  In this case, loss means exactly that.  Her husband has disappeared!  She has no idea if he is dead or alive.  All she knows is that he has been missing for 3 weeks.  Her brother has hired a Bow Street Runner to help them find the missing husband, Anthony.  What he finds is unbelievable.  The name Anthony Haywood is an alias.  His real name is Nicholas Hackett and he married his wife, Louisa, two years ago.  Therefore, Anne is not really married.  

    She returns to her parents home and is once again, living under her father's rule.  Lord Purbeck is determined to see the stain removed from his daughter, his name, and his family.  She will marry Tobias Cosgrove.  The Cosgrove family is wealthy, but has no title.  Lady Anne can bring a title to the marriage, but no money.  As far as her father is concerned, it is the perfect solution for all. 

    Tobias Cosgrove's father and mother have informed him of his father's agreement with Lord Purbeck.  Tobias is not ready to marry and give up his carefree lifestyle, but he has known Lady Anne all of his life through his sisters.  She seems a reasonable sort.  He decides that perhaps the two of them can come to an agreement of their own.  It is with that in mind, that he calls on Lady Anne.

    Lady Anne is relieved by Tobias suggestion.  She has already been duped by the romantic idea of a marriage for love.  Theirs will be a marriage of convenience.  Both families will get what they want and Anne and Tobias can live separate lives under the same roof without romantic entanglements.  

    Sounds perfect, right?  Marriage is never quite that simple, especially when the Ton is watching!  

    _________ 

     

    Books by Martha Keyes Previously Reviewed on ReviewThisReviews.com



     
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    House of Sylvestermouse



    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Friday, February 27, 2026

    Easy Apple Cake Recipe

    apple cake recipe
    When we received a bushel of Honeycrisp apples for Christmas, I immediately thought of the apple cake recipe that my mother-in-law gave me many years ago. 

    I've often made this cake during the holidays because we have so many out of town guests. Our family members come in from all across the United States, which means they hail from different time zones. Therefore, we have early risers who quietly start their mornings so others who are still sleeping can rest uninterrupted.

    With the various sleep habits, we are not going to find a great time to have breakfast together. The apple cake is perfect for me to make in advance and have available for whatever time of the day our guests need breakfast. 

    This apple cake is similar to a pineapple upside down cake.  The fruit goes on the bottom of the prepared pan which means it is on the top of the cake when it is turned out of the pan.

    The cake does not need to be refrigerated, which is another plus for making this delicious cake and leaving it out for breakfast, or throughout the day as a snack. 

     

    Apple Cake Recipe

    To begin, set out the butter to soften.  Also, wash, core and thinly slice apples.  Each apple will be cut into sixteenths.


    Ingredients  

    • 3 large eggs 
    • 2 cups sugar 
    • ½ cup vegetable oil 
    • ½ cup softened butter 
    • 1 tsp. baking soda 
    • 2 cups flour (I use 2-1/4 cups Swans Down cake flour) 
    • 2 tsp. ground cinnamon 
    • 1 tsp. vanilla extract 
    • 1 cup walnut pieces (if desired) 
    • 4-6 large Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, cored and sliced  

    Directions 

    1. Preheat oven to 350 F 
    2. Generously butter a 9 x 13 x 2 inch baking dish 
    3. Combine all of the dry ingredients and set aside  (cake flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon) 
    4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with an electric mixer until frothy. Gradually add the sugar, oil and butter (a little of each at a time). Beat until sugar has dissolved. 
    5. Stir in the vanilla (with the mixer on low speed is fine) 
    6. Add dry ingredients mixture to the egg mixture along with the walnuts (with the mixer on low speed is fine) 
    7. Spread the apples over the bottom of the prepared baking pan and drizzle with a few pinches of sugar 
    8. Pour the batter over them, smoothing to cover all the apples 

    Bake for 1 hour 

    Set aside to cool to room temperature. Turn upside down on serving plate. I use my cutting board as the serving tray for this cake. Not only is it the right size, but a knife will not harm it.

     PrepWorks Dishwasher Safe Apple Slicer and Corer – 16-Slice Thin Apple Cutter with Safety CoverCheck Price Swans Down, Cake Flour, 32oz Box - Pack of 6Check Price Thirteen Chefs Large Acrylic Cutting Board, 16x10 Inch with Rubber Feet, Clear - Dishwasher SafeCheck Price

     

    If you happen to be the recipient of a bushel of apples, you may also wish to check out my Apple Cobbler recipe or my Chocolate Covered Apples.  They are both delicious! 

     Easy Apple Cobbler Recipe Chocolate Dipped or Covered Apples

     

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    Apple Cake Recipe Written by:
    House of Sylvestermouse






    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Friday, February 20, 2026

    Mischief and Manors Book Reviewed

    mischief & manors book cover
    I have recently started reading through the Change of Heart book series by Ashtyn Newbold and I have not been disappointed.  

    This entire series is a  very romantic, very entertaining series built around characters with charm and wit.

    Book 1 of the series is Mischief and Manors.  The title describes well what a reader should expect.  The mischief element is introduced by the two young brothers in the story.  Manors is also clear in reference to the homes.  Changing the spelling to "manners" would also have been appropriate since having the proper manners in society definitely matters.

    Romantics at heart always love books with gentlemen and heroes.  This series is based on women who need a real gentleman and hero in their lives.  All Regency Romance novels are written based on a time period in the past when woman have little or no control over their own lives.  Happiness and romance are secondary to financial security and marriage arrangements may not include the woman's personal considerations.  

     

    Synopsis of Mischief and Manors

    Annette Downing and her two young brothers are orphans who were taken in my their uncle's widow when their parents died 5 years before the book's beginning.  Ruth Filbee is a cruel, selfish, and viscous woman who didn't want the children, but also didn't want to be criticized publicly for not taking them in.

     Mischief and Manors:
    A Regency Romance (Change of Heart Book 1)
    Check Price
    When Annette and her brothers were invited to spend the summer at Kellaway Manor, Annette couldn't get away from her aunt and the town of Silton fast enough.  Even though she thought she had found a way out of Aunt Ruth's house by accepting the vicar's marriage proposal, it would not be a love match.  Simply an escape from her aunt's abuse and guardianship.  She hoped to have time away from all of the stress by visiting her parent's friends, the Kellaways.  

    Annette had visited the Kellaways in the past with her parents, but her brothers had never been there.  She knew their mischievous antics could cause problems, but she hoped she would be able to instruct them.  She had done the best she could to raise her young brothers, but she knew she needed help.  The need for help was another reason why she was considering the vicar's proposal.

    Dr. Owen Kellaway remembered Annette, and she certainly remembered him and his own mischievous ways when he was young.  After all, when she was previously there, he had led her into an "adventure" that ended up with her being hurt.  

    Owen was immediately drawn to Annette and her dedication to her little brothers.  The more he learned about their lives, the more he wanted to help them, but Annette wasn't interested in a relationship with Owen.  However, she did realize he could help her instruct and properly teach her brothers to be gentlemen.  She finally agreed to a proper friendship.  She had no desire to be taken in by his charm or flirtation, but she thought she was safe to have him as a much needed friend.

    ____________

    It is pretty evident early on that Annette and Owen's friendship will develop into a love relationship.  However, Annette's aunt had accepted the vicar's proposal for Annette and she has threatened to send her brothers to an orphanage.  No matter who Annette marries, her aunt is still her brother's guardian and has total control over them.

    As with any "Cinderella" story, you really want to see the wicked guardian's plans thwarted.  

     

            




    Books by Ashtyn Newbold Previously Reviewed on ReviewThisReviews.com


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    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Friday, February 13, 2026

    2 Minute Microwave Fudge Recipe

    fudge
    Yes, I did say 2 minutes!  

    The 2 minutes refers to the microwave cook time.  It does take a few minutes to mix the ingredients together and spread it in a cooling pan.  Regardless, it only takes about 15 minutes total time to make this fudge and approximately 1 hour before it is set to eat.

    I've made this fudge many times over the years for parties, teas, and receptions.  It is always extremely popular.  If attendees only knew how easy it is to make, I doubt they would be as generous with the compliments.  After all, traditional fudge, made the way my grandmothers made it, has to be cooked on the stove-top to the right consistency, without being overcooked.  This microwave fudge is pretty fool proof and simple!

    I started using this easy fudge recipe 35 or 40 years ago when I purchased a Tupperware Microwave 2 quart "Ultra 21" set.  You will see it in the photos below.  I feel rather old when I realize that set is referred to as "vintage" in eBay listings.  No matter!  Sometimes vintage is best!  

    I would appreciate it if you wouldn't tell my guests at my next party my fudge secret.

     

    2 Minute Microwave Fudge Recipe

    In my case, I use the 2 quart bottom half of the Tupperware microwave set to cook the fudge and then spread it in the top of the set.  However, you can use any 2 quart (or larger) microwavable cooking dish then spread the fudge mixture in a 8 x 8 pan to cool.  

    Before you start, butter the pan you will be using to cook the fudge. If you line the cooling pan with parchment paper, you will not need to butter it, and clean-up will be much easier.

    microwave fudge ingredients
    There are only a few ingredients needed for the microwave fudge.

    • 1 lb. Confectioners Sugar aka Powdered Sugar  (approx. 4 cups)
    • 1/2 Cup Cocoa
    • 1/4 Cup Milk
    • 1 Stick of Butter
    Optional:  You can add 2 teaspoons of vanilla along with the milk.    

    Sift powdered sugar and cocoa together into 2 quart microwavable bowl/pan.  Pour in milk and stir together.  Lay the butter on top of the mixture.  Cook in the microwave for 2 minutes.

    Take it out of the microwave and stir it all together until it is smooth.  There will be some lumps, but they will breakdown and mix in as you stir to a smooth consistency.

      Optional:  You can stir in 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts into the fudge right before you spread it in the pan for cooling 

    Spread the fudge into the prepared (buttered or parchment paper) cooling pan and set in the refrigerator for an hour to completely cool.

    Then, enjoy!   

     

     Confectioners Powdered Sugar, 1 lbCheck Price Hershey's Unsweetened CocoaCheck Price


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    2 Minute Microwave Fudge Review Written by:
    House of Sylvestermouse





    Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”


    Friday, February 6, 2026

    Godiva Chocolate Reviewed

    Godiva Chocolate Gift
    My husband has been giving me Godiva Chocolate for Valentine's Day and Christmas for decades.  

    We first discovered this brand while shopping in a mall and seeing the Godiva store.  Back then, they boxed their candy in beautiful tin collectible boxes.  In recent years, they started using decorative boxes covered in fabric, some have even had lovely embroidered designs.  I keep the tins and decorative boxes and use them in my craft room.  The boxes alone have been gifts, but the chocolate is divine.  

    Over the years, I started getting headaches when eating chocolate.  Some of my favorite things like chocolate ice cream or candy bars have become a thing of the past for me.  However, Godiva chocolate stands out as the one chocolate candy I can still enjoy.  For some reason, perhaps the type of cocoa they use, Godiva chocolate does not give me headaches.  That is pretty fantastic!  It is a way for me to still delve into the world of chocolate without paying a painful price.

    Now, don't tell my husband, but I saw the package of Godiva chocolate for Valentine's Day delivered yesterday.  I left the box on the porch and acted totally ignorant.  Our Ring doorbell doesn't really allow me to be ignorant, but we can pretend. 

     

    Godiva Chocolate for Valentine's Day

    We have to purchase Godiva Chocolate online these days.  The store in the mall shut down years ago.  As of 2021, there are no Godiva brick and mortar stores.  Fortunately, the candy is still available online.  They still have a few tins available, but most of the larger boxes of candy now come in a gold box with a decorative ribbon.  

    No matter how the chocolate is packaged, the candy is delicious! 

     Godiva Masterpiece Heart Chocolate Gift Tin, Assorted Milk & Dark Chocolate with Ganache & Caramel, Valentine’s Day Keepsake Gift for Her, 20pcCheck Price Godiva Red Ribbon Gold Assorted Chocolate Gift Box, Belgian Dark and Milk Chocolates with Pralinés, Ganaches & Caramels, Gourmet Valentine's Day GiftCheck Price Godiva Masterpiece Heart Chocolate Gift Tin, Assorted Milk & Dark Chocolate with Ganache, Valentine’s Day Keepsake Gift for Her, 7pcCheck Price

     

     

    If you want the tins, you may find them on Ebay, without the candy, of course.

     

     



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    Friday, January 30, 2026

    Fluffy Fleece Loungewear Pajamas for Women Reviewed

    fleece loungewear pajamas
    My mother has pretty much everything she needs or wants.  Buying a gift for her is rather challenging.  I spent some time searching Amazon products before Christmas, asking myself questions about each thing I considered and then rejecting it.  That is, until I found this really cute fleece loungewear outfit.

    Mom and I are both always cold.  Seriously!  It can be 70° outside, but with the air conditioner on inside, we get cold.  It seems an odd dance.  We love air conditioning, but we also like to be warm.  This fleece loungewear will most likely be a year round part of our wardrobe.  

    Oh, yes!  I did say "our" wardrobe.  I had put the outfit on my wishlist so I could go back and buy it for Mom once I decided on a color and size.  It was on the wishlist for less than 48 hrs, but that was clearly an important 48 hours.  During that time, my son checked out my wishlist to select a gift for me for Christmas.  Obviously, he liked the loungewear because he purchased it for me.

    Christmas morning was rather humorous when Mom opened her gift first and he thought the wrong gift went to her.  She loved it so much, he was not about to open his mouth and say anything though.  It would be easy to mix up gifts when handing them out since I call Mom, "Mom" and my son calls me "Mom", but there was no mix-up.  When I opened my gift, he was greatly relieved to see me pull out the same fluffy blue outfit.  The rest of us were confused at why he was laughing, but a brief conversation between us revealed what had happened.  Turns out, the gift was perfect for both of us!

    Since Christmas morning, we have run around looking like 2 blue polar bears.  Mom and I both wear the loungeware over our pajamas.  We even wear the jackets when going back and forth to each other's homes.  

    The listing says they are pajamas.  I have not worn the outfit as pajamas, but Mom has.  She loves how warm and lightweight they are even when sleeping. 

    If you can't stand the cold, I highly recommend this fluffy fleece loungewear, day or night!

     

    Bedsure Fleece Women's Pajamas 

     Bedsure Fleece Womens Pajama SetsCheck PriceThe Bedsure fleece loungewear pajamas are 100% polyester and extremely soft.  Plus, they are very lightweight.  I love the pockets in the jacket!  They are perfect for my cellphone, keys, Kleenex, hair clips, etc.  

    Mom and I are both short.  The ribbed cuffs at the wrists and ankles are great.  The ribbing keeps the fabric the right length without having tight elastic or requiring alterations.    

    It is also machine wash and dry, which mean we don't have to be parted from our blue bear suits for long.  I have washed mine several times and it still looks as good as the day I opened the package.

    • Very Soft
    • Warm 
    • Comfortable 
    • Jacket and Pants included
    • Button front Jacket
    • 2 Pockets
    • Currently available in several colors. 

     

     

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    Review This Reviews is Dedicated to the Memory of Our Beloved Friend and Fellow Contributor

    Susan DeppnerSusan Deppner

    We may be apart, but
    You Are Not Forgotten





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