Bring the sparkle to your dessert table with these stunning candy firework cupcake toppers! Made with melted white candy melts and topped with red, white, and blue sprinkles, these edible decorations are perfect for 4th of July parties, patriotic holidays, or any celebration that needs a little wow-factor. These delicate swirls resemble bursting fireworks or whimsical pinwheels, adding height and flair to any cupcake display. They’re not only eye-catching but also easy to make ahead—just pipe, sprinkle, and let them set!

Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, summer picnic, or birthday bash, these DIY candy toppers are a fun and festive way to add a patriotic pop to your cupcakes.

Let’s grab some

• Lollipop Sticks

• White Candy Melts

• patrioitic colored sprinkles and aren’t these sprinkles cute

they’d be great on these cookies too!

More great sprinkle options for more occasions

And do you see that added sparkle… that’s edible GLITTER!

You’ll also need a piping bag, parchment paper, and a baking sheet.

Making these candy cupcake toppers will be ready in no time…

Let’s start with the cupcakes… OMG Red Velvet is the way to go… or use chocolate or vanilla, or funfetti.

You’ll find my

• small batch red velvet cake recipe here
• this recipe will make about 36 red velvet cupcakes

Be sure to check out this PATRIOTIC CAKE– this is a show stopper!

In fact I have lots of Patriotic Recipes…

• Fun Summer Recipes
• Red, White, and Blue Deviled Eggs
• Cherry Pie Cookies
• Layered Red, White, and Blue Cupcake Batter
• Frosted Sugar Cookies – flag theme in post
• Patriotic Spritz Cookies
• Red White Blue Tie Dye Cookies

More Patriotic Recipes

While I piped some thin and some thick, the thinner lines worked well when eating at home. If you plan to travel with them, Make the lines THICKER, or even a small breeze will break the candy. Or place them in the cupcakes when you arrive.

Finally, If you plan on driving with food check out my tips here!

Another option to use to make items to top cupcakes and treats with is Royal Icing check out more ideas here!

Print

Candy Cupcake Topper

Candy melts, lollipop sticks, and sprinkles combined to make the cutest cupcake toppers

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword candy, Cupcakes

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup white candy metls I use Ghirardelli brand
• 6 lollipop sticks 1 used 6" sticks
• 1 tablespoon sprinknles I used red, white, and blue non pariels, and stars
• edible glitter
• piping bag
• parchment paper

Instructions

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
• In a microwave-safe bowl, melt candy in the microwave at 30 second intervals, stirring each 30 seconds, until smooth and fully melted.
• Place the melted candy into a piping bag, cut a small hole (I piped thinner and thicker lines) if you'll be serving at home, thin is fine, if you plan to travel with them, make them thick so they won't be so fragile and break while transporting.
• Place the lollipop sticks on the parchment lined baking sheet.
• Swirl the melted candy onto the lollipop sticks, allowing it to collect at the end of the stick for support.I found the thicker the better!
• Then place sprinkles on top before it firms up.
• Add a bit of glitter if using it, I dip a tiny paintbrush into the glitter then tap it with a finger to allow the glitter to release on top of the candy.
• Place the baking sheet into the fridge for 5-10 minutes until the candy is firm.
• Stick the lollipop sticks into cupcakes and serve.

The post Candy Cupcake Toppers first appeared on Created by Diane.

I love Mexican food! And each year, while I often make taco bowls for Taco Tuesdays on a weekly basis, when Cinco de Mayo rolls around, I find myself dreaming of all my favorite items. And oh, the list is long!

I’m sharing with you my top 12 Mexican Recipes!

Just like when I go out, I’d start with a margarita.

We’re starting with drinks and appetizer:

My favorite is a Blueberry Margarita! If you think it looks pretty now, just wait until you see it stirred.

Next, I’d like a warm bowl of chips and the easiest salsa ever!

Now’s a great time to call a friend or two to help you eat all this food. And now onto a great protein-packed Cottage Cheese Taco Dip.

Then moving onto a few lighter options:

A great item to make for lunch or to serve alongside some grilled chicken, beef, or burgers. This Taco Pasta Salad is not only full of color, it’s full of great flavors too!

Now, how about some delicious shrimp tacos!

This is an easy twist on a ground beef taco… all sealed up and browned nicely, make plenty, you’ll want leftovers! These tortilla empanadas are so fun.

And be sure to check out my post on how I make Mexican food for 15+ easily!

And now we’re getting into the heart of it all:

Now onto the sides… This is the perfect Mexican Rice.

Be sure to check out my post on my Mexican Recipes to serve 15+.

And don’t forget the beans!

Mexican corn is always a great idea, it can e made with fresh or frozen corn and makes a fantastic side dish!

And for a really fun way to finish off this meal, enjoy some crispy Rosette Cookies (Bunuelos de Viento)

Cinco de Mayo is held on May 5 to celebrate Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

These recipes are perfect to have each week for TACO TUESDAY. Go ahead and print a few and add some recipes to your weekly meal plan!

How fun is this Let’s give ’em something to talk about dish towel

Taco ‘bout a great list of recipes

Keep calm and crunch on a taco.
Life’s too short to say no to tacos.
Eat tacos, repeat mistakes.
Tacos: Because you can’t live on guacamole alone.

SIGN UP FOR MY EMAILS, you don’t want to miss any recipes.

The post Easy Recipes for Taco Tuesday and Cinco de Mayo first appeared on Created by Diane.

This red velvet cake mix hack is going to surprise you, keeping it as simple as can be while adding some additional items.

Now let’s talk about the decorating… OMG, do you love it? It got rave reviews and I personally think it’s so pretty. I am loving the soft color with some brightness added.

How do you frost this cake, it must take a lot of time?

I get this question often, no it does not take a lot of time, it’s actually simple, have all your frosting ready in separate piping bags with the piping tips. And create swirls and dollops of the frosting to cover the cake.

• I have a video here on how to place the frosting onto the cake
• and the lemon cake recipe is here)
• and you might find this post helpful on frosting cakes like this one, it’s chocolate

Place each frosting color in a piping bag with a star tip, I used 857, 2D, 4B, and 32. I added a small portion of red with white in the same piping bag to make the two-tone swirl. I used soft pink for the other colors a small amount for the lightest color and more for the darker pink colors. Americolor soft pink concentrated gel color. (Chefmaster is another brand I like). I have a video linked in the post on how I place the frosting.

How do you make boxed red velvet cake better?

This recipe takes a box mix and makes it taste like it came from a great bakery. Box mixes have ultra-milled flour, which is great for light and fluffiness, but if you want a cake to stand up to frosting, fillings, and stacking without the feeling like it might collapse and be so light in texture you want to eat five pieces, this recipe ensures the cake to be light while allowing it to be a bit more substantial, perfect for large cakes, layer cake, add a filling or more icing and you won’t be disappointed.

There are a few elements on how to improve boxed red velvet cake mix, this recipe includes sour cream which gives this cake a velvety texture

Do you have other recipes for doctored cake mix recipes?

This 2 Layer White Cake is always super delicious and easy to make. Need something bigger give my White Sour Cream Cake a try. I also have a Chocolate Cake that I’ve made more than 30 times.

Which brand of red velvet cake mix should I use?

I recommend Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines Red Velvet Cake Mix.

Can I make this cake in round cake pans?

This cake can be baked in 8″ or 9″ pans or a bundt pan. Adjust the baking time according to the pan size, smaller pans will take less time to bake. There is more batter in this recipe so be sure to leave room for the cake to rise as it bakes (at least an inch).

I don’t want to use Red Velvet Cake Box Mix do you have another option?

I have a from-scratch delicious Red Velvet Cake Recipe, and also a small batch Single Layer 8″ Red Velvet Cake.

I added some additional red food coloring, I wanted the cake bright red. I’m so glad I added it, it’s so pretty!

I topped the cake with cream cheese frosting. Using cooler temperature butter helped to make sure the frosting would be thick, and easy to pipe, and that the frosting would hold its shape.

Once I was done piping the frosting, I placed the cake in the fridge to make sure it was firm. It’s January and 80°, who would have guessed it would be so warm

I think this is my favorite Valentine’s Cake. It’ll be a great cake to make for your sweet Valentine! Or make this for yourself, or someone special, or to have some fun on a weeknight to celebrate everyday moments!

What food coloring do you use?

Americolor Gel Food Coloring (soft pink) and Chefmaster Gel Food Coloring (super red) are my two favorites. (I do not prefer the taste of Wilton food color)

I like using disposable piping bags, it makes for easy cleanup, and it ensures I have plenty of them to make as many colors as I’d like each time I bake.

This cake is thick and delicious, you can slice the whole cake in half so it becomes two thinner layers of cake, add a layer of your favorite cake filling pastry cream is yummy or add chocolate frosting for the filling or strawberry jam would be fun .

Where did I get the pan I baked the cake in?

I bought it at Home Goods, here is a not wavy edge oven safe pan, or I also bake cakes in a 13×9 pan like this one.

Print

Red Velvet 13×9 Cake

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword cake, red velvet, Valentine’s Day

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 1 box 13.25 oz Betty Crocker Delights Super Moist, Red Velvet Cake Mix
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 10 oz whole milk
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1 tablespoon red gel food coloring,
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, or vanilla bean paste
• 1/4 cup oil, I use avocado oil
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, which is 4 oz
• 3 large eggs, room temperature

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°
• Prepare your baking pan iwth a pan release on the bottom and 1 inch up on the sides.
• In the bowl of a mixer add the cake mix, flour, sugar, sour cream, milk, vinegar, cocoa, red food coloring, salt, baking soda, vanilla, oil, butter, and eggs.
• Mix on low until all ingredients are combined, then mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stop the mixer and scrape the sides and bottom of the mixing bowl to be sure all ingredients will get well mixed. Mix on medium speed for 2 more minutes.
• Pour cake batter into the prepared pan. Spread smooth.
• Bake for 55-60 minutes, then begin testing for doneness. When a toothpick comes out cream. This is a large cake be patient. Test every 2 minutes.,
• Allow the cake to cool completely, this will take about an hour. Place the cake in the fridge once completely cooled if you prefer a more dense cake. If frosting the next day, cover the cake and leave on the counter, or cover it with plastic wrap and foil and place the in the refrigerator or freeze.
• The cream cheese frosting recipe is in the post below this recipe. Other great options are chocolate frosting, buttercream frosting, swiss meringue frosting, or try Italian meringue frosting. I have lots of frosting recipes on my website.

Print

Cream Cheese Frosting

Deliciously smooth Cream Cheese Frosting

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword cake, frosting

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 1 lb butter, room temperature (not soft) which is 2 cups
• 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
• 4-6 cups powdered sugar start with 4 cups, and more until desired thickness of frosting is achieved
• pinch salt, if desired if using unsalted butter or you find it a little too sweet
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

• In the bowl of a mixer add butter and cream cheese and mix on high until light, smooth, and creamy.
• Add in the powdered sugar and mix on low to combine, then medium to mix well, add in the vanilla, then drizzle in the heavy cream. Continue mixing on medium to medium-high speed, mixing for 3 minutes. Until the frosting is thick and smooth.
• This frosting can be adjusted thicker or thinner by adding a little more powdered sugar or heavy cream.
• Divide the frosting into smaller bowls for each color you'll be making.
• I spread a very thin layer of frosting all over the cake with a small offset spatula.
• Place each color in a piping bag with a star tip, I used 857, 2D, 4B, 32. I added a small portion of red with white in the same piping bag to make the two-tone swirl. I used soft pink for the other colors a small amount for the lightest color and more for the darker pink colors. Americolor soft pink concentrated gel color. (Chefmaster is another brand I like). I have a video linked in the post on how I place the frosting.

The post Red Velvet 13×9 Cake first appeared on Created by Diane.

I love snacks and the easier the better

when it comes to last minute… I think we all need something to count on. I have a list of my top 10 favorites to share with you. I hope you find a new favorite or two.

• Chocolate with Dried Fruit-chocolate and fruit a winning combination.
• Rosemary Candied Walnuts– these are great on a charcuterie board!
• Rosemary Cranberry Toffee– might just be my number 1 favorite candy to make
• Peanut Brittle– I love peanut brittle, make it with cashews for extra fun!
• Chocolate Funnel Cake– bring on the chocolate!
• Rosette Cookies– always a favorite and fun to make too.
• Whisky Fudge– OMG give me all the bourbon fudge!
• Puppy Chow– perfect for peanut butter lovers.
• Chocolate Covered Bacon hello bacon!
• Cannoli Cones these are so fun, take minutes to whip up.

I have a little time tomorrow and think I’ll be making some Rosette Cookies and Whiskey Fudge. If there is still time more Rosemary Cranberry Toffee – this has become my all time favorite!

I cannot seem to help myself, so here are a few more:

Salty Sweets are a true favorite of mine be sure to check these out…

• Christmas Crack– chocolate pretzel toffee
• White Chocolate Covered Pretzels with Pistachios and Dried Cranberries
• Rudolph-O’s– pretzel circles, make to look like reindeer
  *And a chocolate cannoli quick dessert:
• Chocolate Cannoli Cones

And if you are looking for some Christmas Cookies I have some old favorites and a few new recipes to try!

• Teddy Bear Chocolate Butter Cookies absolutely adorable, don’t you agree.
• Orange Cardamom Cookies– bright citrusy flavor with an orange glaze.
• Rosemary Chocolate Chip Cookies– and I’ve made two batches of these and need to make one more and hide them for myself
• Chocolate Gingerbread Cut Out Cookies– I just LOVE the drizzle of green icing!
• Cranberry Pistachio Cookies– 3 ways to bake them.
• Chocolate Gingerbread Cookies– crispy and chewy a dynamic duo.

The post Easy No Bake Desserts first appeared on Created by Diane.

Are you tired of trying to squish a big bird into your fridge by moving and shoving everything around until there is enough room and afraid something will come tumbling out every time you open the door until the holiday meal is served (which could be days)!

The best way to thaw a turkey:

Use a cooler to thaw your turkey and remove stress.

Here is an estimated timeline to thaw your holiday bird in water in a cooler.

THAW A TURKEY IN WATER:

• 12-14 lbs 6-8 hours changing the water every few hours.
• 15-16 lbs 8-10 hours changing the water every few hours.
• 18-20 lbs 10-12 hours changing the water every few hours.

 Defrost time for turkey: use this timing guide as an estimate.

Now, if you want to speed up the timing to thaw a turkey quicker change the water every 30 minutes to 1 hour. As the frozen turkey thaws the water will get colder, just empty the cooler, then refill it with cold water. I use a hose and keep my cooler outside in the shade (use an umbrella or under a covering to not have the cooler in the hot sun if the temperature outside is above 70 degrees) 

Turn the turkey over in the cooler so it thaws evenly or place something heavy on top if needed or if you feel it’s not thawing evenly.

The turkey can remain in the cold water in the cooler as long as the temperature inside the cooler doesn’t rise above 40°. Add ice to maintain the temperature. 

Now let’s chat about the rest of the holiday meal and how to keep it simple and keep stress to a minimum. 

Here are some delicious ideas:

• Drinks- apple cider sangria and be sure to give these cranberry jello shots a try!
• Appetizer- pumpkin deviled eggs or this fig jam dip or maybe you’re more of a goat cheese and cherry jam kinda person!
• Side Dishes: potatoes- instant pot or slow cooker or give these garlic pumpkin mashed potatoes a try!
• Need a fun item all the kids and adults as well will devour, warm cinnamon apples are always a huge hit.
• And while we’re at it why not make a batch of mac and cheese because a few hours later after the meal you might want some!
• stuffing- OMG this is really my all-time favorite!
• sweet potatoes- make these fun Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes or this easy brown sugar sweet potato casserole.
• 1 lb cranberry sauce
• Gravy-this is my make-ahead recipe, perfect every time!
• How to cook the best turkey ever- check all the details out here
• Desserts- now pie is usually the show stopper, one of my all-time favorites is chocolate pudding pie, and this pumpkin cheesecake pie, now maybe you’re in the mood for a pumpkin cake-this one is so pretty, or some cute pumpkin cupcakes. 

DRIVING with food can be challenging if you need to bring items miles away from your kitchen… get my tips for traveling with food here.

PRINT out this list so you can keep track of the items you’ll be making and the timing to keep it all manageable.

Now maybe you go to the end of this and just want to be able to sit down and eat a meal that tastes like a well crafted Thansgiving meal but need it to be much simpler…

Make this perfect Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich- it’s fantastic! 

Or make my “Fake Thanksgiving Dinner” with turkey meatballs and easy sides.

Now… What’s next? How to Simplify CHRISTMAS and I’m looking forward to making these mini cranberry pecan pies and of course these great sugar cookies too.

The post how to thaw a turkey without taking up fridge space first appeared on Created by Diane.

The combination of pumpkin and cream cheese frosting will have everyone wanting a second piece.

I keep it simple and keep the cake in the 13×9 pan I bake it in, but you can easily remove it and place it on a tray, and go ahead and decorate the sides or leave them naked if you prefer.

I chose some fun fall colors that remind me of all the things this time of year, orange, rust, brown, deep red, yellow, green, blue, and white like those cute Cinderella-style pumpkins. At a minimum, I’d use 3 colors, but the more the merrier I think, when it comes to this cake.

I’ve made other similar style cakes check out my pink cake, yellow lemon cake, and this patriotic cake.

This fall pumpkin cake is made with cream cheese frosting, it happen to be 107° that day and I was cooking items all day long and didn’t realize the kitchen wasn’t holding the coolest temperature and the frosting was a bit softer than usual, so the frosting appears softer than normal. I still thought the cake was so… super cute and I wasn’t sure if I was going to have time to remake it to get new photographs. Looking at it over and over I think I like the patchwork style and that the colors and textures blended a bit.

Make swirls and dollops, create… rose shapes, pumpkins, or any pattern to combine the colors and textures to make the cake extra pretty.

Frosting:

I made cream cheese frosting, and it went great on this pumpkin cake, buttercream frosting is another great option. I added some cinnamon to the frosting as it goes so well with the pumpkin cake.

• Piping tips: 2D tip, 857, 195, 4B If you don’t already have some this set of piping tips looks great.
• These Piping bags are great, economical, and easy to use. 
• Food Coloring:  Americolor food coloring, a thick concentrated gel color and I also use Master Chef Brand gel coloring. They are concentrated and you don’t need much to create vivid colors.

I prefer to double bag the frosting into piping bags, it make it easier if you want to change the piping tip, is less messy if you have to refill the piping bag. Purchasing piping bags in bulk is great for this.

Prepare the bake with a baking spray or use my homemade pan release so the cake will come out of the pan easily.

If you’re taking the cake on the go you could bake it in a disposable 13×9 foil pan.

I often share my baked good with friends or have some in the fridge for a neighbor or midnight snack. I package up slices in these to go containers and include a plastic fork so it’s ready to enjoy.

Store frosted cake in the fridge, be sure to cover any exposed “cut” edge of cake so it does not get dry or go stale, use slices of bread or plastic wrap secure with toothpicks here is an example.

More pumpkin recipes

• Pumpkin Scones
• Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes
• Pumpkin Pancakes
• 3 layer 6″ Pumpkin Cake
• Pumpkin Muffins
• Crispy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Print

Pumpkin Cake Cream Cheese Frosting

The pumpkin cake you'll make over and over with silky cream cheese frosting decorated simply with a variety of Fall colors and a few piping tips.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword cake, fall, frosting, pumpkin

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 55 minutes minutes

Servings 12 servings

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup butter melted
• 1/4 cup oil avocado or vegetable oil
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°
• Prepare a 13×9 pan with baking spray or use my homemade pan release (recipe linked in post)
• In a large bowl whisk sugar and eggs.
• In the bowl of a mixer place flour, milk, pumpkin, butter, oil, baking powder, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth.
• Pour into pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to completely cool before frosting.

Print

Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese frosting with a hint of cinnamon, perfect topping on a pumpkin cake

Course Dessert

Keyword frosting

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Author Diane Schmidt – createdbydiane.com

Ingredients

• 4 oz butter room temperature
• 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

• In the bowl of a mixer combine butter and cream cheese and mix until smooth and light in texture.
• Add in the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon and mix on medium until well combined.
• Separate the frosting into small bowls, the number of colors you'll be using.
• Add food coloring to each bowl until the desired color is achieved.
• Place each color of frosting into piping bags, then add piping tips to empty piping bags and slip the frosting bag into the bag with a piping tip.
• If the frosting has warmed up while mixing, place bags of frosting into the fridge for 5 minutes.
• Next, swirl and add dollops of each frosting varying the colors and textures until the cake is covered.
• Place the cake in the fridge to set the frosting until it's firm.
• Serve the cake at room temperature. Store the cake in the fridge. Cover the cut edges of the cake with bread, plastic wrap and secure it with toothpicks so the cake does not dry out.

The post Pumpkin Cake Cream Cheese Frosting first appeared on Created by Diane.

I haven’t always been a fan of fruit in everything, but OMG this will change anyone’s mind.

This toffee is the epitome of sweet and savory, it’ll wow your taste buds.

This flavor combination took toffee to the next level. Sweet and savory toffee tastes outstanding. I had it on my idea list for a while, and the holidays got busy but as soon as I had a spare moment before the New Year, I made a batch and I made another batch the next day and another about a week later. 

Needless to say,

it’s amazing!

One bite in and every person said Oh My… this is amazing.

Continue reading: Rosemary Cranberry Toffee

The post Rosemary Cranberry Toffee first appeared on Created by Diane.

There seems to be some debate as to the name…

My mom called them Pecan Lassies,

But some call them Pecan Tassies, tassies mean small cups so that seems to be quite fitting, but to honor my mom and her coveted recipe I will continue to call them Pecan Lassies! 

These pecan cookies are my most favorite of all Christmas cookies, my mom made them every year, and it was the one cookie I looked forward to. I’ve avoided making them for many years, it was the one thing I’d ask her to make. It made me feel special when she’d give me a nice tin full of them. She’d put more in her freezer to give me when I visited.

Now this may come as a surprise… I don’t like pecan pie! It’s true, I think traditional pecan pie is far too sweet. But I have a delicious Cranberry Pecan Pies here.

And when it comes to pecans, this recipe is number one!

Continue reading: Pecan Lassies

The post Pecan Lassies first appeared on Created by Diane.

I can always go for some delicious Mexican food, tacos, rice and beans, chips and salsa, margaritas, and more.

Here are some of my favorite recipes, whether I’m cooking for my family and to have plenty of leftovers or a gathering to serve many.

It’s become my go-to for entertaining without much fuss.

To keep things simple, I serve taco bowls when we have company, and everyone can pile on the topping they prefer.

It also makes a great presentation when you line up all the items on an oval plate. They sell oval disposable plates, which are perfect for this, and have room for chips and salsa as well.

I often have impromptu dinners, and this is one of my go-to meals to serve.

I have said it time and again, I love it when we go somewhere and there is a “taco guy,” it’s perfect to replicate for Mexican-themed party food.

My recipes are easy, and the big bonus, you won’t have to spend all day in the kitchen!

Spending the time to meal prep this way allows you to have plenty of servings.

Eat some and put some in the fridge, and some in the freezer to have delicious meals ready in minutes! Mix up the proteins for more variety.

With a printable shopping list so you can easily gather the items you’ll need for serving a crowd.

The protein options are plentiful, and you can choose to serve tacos or make taco bowls.

I cook big meals almost every week just for my family. I pack the meals up, and everyone eats them all week.

I typically make one or two large portion meals on one day and then a couple of days later do it again.

So there is variety and plenty of meals ready all week long, for lunch or dinner. I’ve been doing this for years. It seems we aren’t all at the dinner table at once.

Don’t miss this cilantro lime sauce, it’s addictive! And not only perfect for tacos, but pasta, rice, and seafood.

This meal prep works well. This meal is not only great for meal prepping, but it’s great to know the portions to make and have the recipes to make a delicious meal almost effortlessly.

You can invite some friends, neighbors, or family over for everyone to sit around the table and enjoy the time together. 

We do this multiple times a year, just make a meal and invite friends over and spend some great times together, often it’s impromptu.

A couple of hours before dinner time, we’ll see who is around… It’s fun, I love casual get-togethers, they’re less stressful than planning a dinner party in advance.

We sit around and enjoy some chips and salsa with margaritas and beer.

I’m all about the food…. delicious food, it’s what brings us together, we chat and share what’s going on, and live our best lives!

Sharing food brings people together. We’re meant to spend time with others, and there is no better way to spend time than while enjoying delicious food.

Here is my list of items we enjoy:

• Mexican rice
• refried beans, or black beans
• roasted corn
• shredded pork, taco chicken, shredded beef, taco garbanzo beans, and shrimp
• short-cut tortilla empanadas or these fun tortilla cones
• guacamole
• restaurant salsa, salsa verde, pico de gallo
• chips, and oh, here is a cheese dip you may like

This is my idea of the perfect Mexican party food! Add in your favorites to make it your own.

If you’re meal prepping, these containers work well.

Every time we have a party, I wish I had one of these.

And if you’re serving tacos, these look great.

When I’m prepping lots of foods, I often rely on these for ease.

Here is a link to my taco seasoning mix. Use that or store-bought dry taco seasoning mix. Great for my taco marinated chicken.

All you need next is to gather some drinks, and you’re all set. Grab some beer and margaritas to make it a real party!

A cold side dish of black bean salsa is just perfect when you want to make it ahead of time and have it ready when you want to serve it. Great for lunches, leftovers, meal prep, and a great item to bring to the beach.

Let’s talk proteins:

• chicken thighs (boneless skinless) 
• pork (butt shoulder )
•  beef (chuck roast, London broil, tri-tip) 
  *For parties and leftovers, add back some cooking juice so it’s not dry if using lean meat. 

Would I use chicken breast? Simply put, NO, unless it’s my marinated taco chicken or similar, they are too dry, and they have less flavor than thighs, but my marinated will save you on both counts.

When cooking for a crowd, I do not go with an “ultra lean” meat, the chance that the meat will dry out is too great, and that would just ruin the meal.

Often, I serve shredded pork and tender cooked pork, then crisped to perfection. I serve it as tacos, or simply layer the items in a bowl for ease. I use the same recipe for beef as well. 

To cook the proteins, I typically use an Instant Pot, but you could grill, bake, or slow-cook the meat to your liking. 

And there is always Chili Verde, make it with pork or try it with chicken.

If you want to keep it really simple, just make the main item (chicken, beef, pork) and serve it with some chips and Corn Black Bean, and Jalapeno Salsa

If you want to serve hot beans, you can make these Instant Pot Pinto Beans or use a few cans of black beans and add a tablespoon of taco seasoning for each can, heat, and serve. Canned refried beans work in a pinch or to keep things simple.

Let’s talk rice! My Simple Mexican Rice is not only easy, it’s tender and delicious. I make it with long-grain rice or jasmine rice.

Carne Asada Dry Rub… oh this is so yummy!

And don’t worry, I didn’t forget dessert… 

• Faux-Fried Ice Cream
• Mexican Chocolate Cupcakes
• Margarita Cupcakes
• Frozen Strawberry Margarita Pie with Pretzel Crust
• cinnamon sugar “churro” cupcakes with caramel (coming soon)
• 13×9 Brownie 

These recipes are great for Mexican food ideas for parties

Be sure to check out the jalapeno bacon mac and cheese, it’s so yummy, make it plain or add in the jalapenos and bacon, and top it with cilantro, it’s a real crowd pleaser.

And just take a look at that pretty cherry margarita, oh, it’s so fun.

Lots of flavor options when making margaritas. Check out my recipe for fresh syrups here. And oh, don’t forget about this Paloma Recipe, it’s so delicious.

You’ll find ideas for serving food at a party, meal planning, and feeding a crowd or large family. and want plenty of food.

This is my PRINTABLE go-to shopping list, and how I entertain with little fuss.

Here are more meals I make for many servings, parties, to bring meals to a friend, and other “gathering” dinners including:

• Baked Ziti

• Chicken Parmesan Meatball Baked Ziti

• Goulash

• Enchiladas with Green Sauce

This white 13×9 dish would be perfect for these dishes.

And don’t forget you could always make everyone’s

• favorite “take-out” recipes 

Other great ideas for dinner with friends… serving a nice soup, chili, or….

• Meatball Tortellini Soup
• chicken tortilla soup
• Chili
• Green chicken chili
• Or serve a carving ham with cheesy potato casserole
• MORE meals to feed a crowd

And more of my Mexican-inspired recipes can be found here.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Mexican Food for a Crowd first appeared on Created by Diane.

Recipes including ham can often be quick and easy, so I compiled a list of some simple and fun recipes you’ll want to try!

There is everything from fried rice to pasta, brunch items, and so much more.

Ham is popular in the spring for Easter as well as around the holiday season to have ham for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. But if you ask me, we have ham more than just around the holidays, any variety of ham can be used in the recipes, so buy extra to have leftovers… trust me, you’ll be happy you did!

• Leftover Ham fried Rice- brown the ham in the pan for a great smokey flavor.
• Eggs Benedict Enchiladas– perfect for brunch for holidays or to make with holiday ham leftovers.
• Cordon Bleu Baked Ziti- A fun baked pasta dish that is not only delicious but great to serve to company.
• Glazed Ham– This is how I often make my holiday ham… 
• perfect with Cheesy Baked Potato Casserole.
• Pomegranate Orange Sauce for Ham – A great tasting sauce for ham, holiday or not.
• Ham, Egg, and Cheese on Waffles- Sandwiches (instructions below)
• Ham, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Cupcakes- These are great to make ahead and enjoy for days, the perfect on-the-go breakfast.
• Ham and Cheese Soup- Nothing better than a big bowl of comfort food, ready in minutes!
• Green Eggs and Ham Deviled Eggs- A great way to serve deviled eggs!

Eggs are super popular especially around Easter (so if you’re serving easter ham, check these out)

• Coloring Eggs
• Hard Boiled Eggs
• Ham and Eggs (deviled eggs)

Do you have to heat ham?

No. Both whole or half hams are cooked, they are cured, smoked, or baked. Even canned hams are fully cooked and can be eaten cold without reheating. Slicing or dicing ham will make it easy to put into recipes and reduce the time it’ll take to reheat it as well. That is why I slice my ham before heating it, even if serving it for a holiday meal.  If you are reheating the ham it should come to a temperature of 140 °. 

There are many options to reheat ham, you can put it in an oven at 350° for 15 minutes per pound.

You can stem it over water in a skillet using a metal straining basket or cooling rack.

Ham can be heated in the slow cooker, pressure cooker, or even an electric skillet, so many options. Remember, adding water will allow steam to heat ham without drying it out.

Another option for ham in recipes is to buy deli ham; you can have it sliced thicker, depending on how you’ll be using it. In the meat section of stores, you can often buy ham steaks or portions of boneless ham sliced, which makes it easy to use in meals.

What is the best ham to buy?

Some people rave over spiral ham, for others, it’s honey-baked ham. My favorite ham is carving ham, it’s usually about 4 inches thick and about ten inches wide, it has very little fat and can be cut easily, tastes great, and is not only great for holidays, it’s also perfect for slicing and dicing to add to other recipes

My least favorite is bone-in ham. I often try to cut the ham off the bone before heating it, as I find it takes so much longer to heat in a large portion with the bone in. It’s not like I serve a huge ham at the table and then begin to carve. I have made bone-in hams and used the bone for soup, but I haven’t done that in years. I like simple, so to simplify it I find the carving ham my favorite and I slice it, then heat it, most often I heat it in the oven or instant pot.

No matter what type of ham you have, there are so many delicious recipes to use ham in.

Another great recipe to use leftover ham in is this Luau Fried Rice, it’s so tasty!!!

I love making these fun ham and cheese waffle sandwiches. You can make them with eggs or not, and they are fun. Drizzled with a little maple syrup, complementing the smoky ham flavor with some sweetness, is always a good idea!

These sandwiches are yummy, Pick it up like a sandwich or cut it and eat it with a fork, they’re fun on-the-go eats to make with leftover ham…drizzle with maple syrup and you’re all set for a hearty breakfast, and it makes the perfect “brinner” breakfast for dinner too.

• Spring & Easter Recipes
• Egg Salad Spring Rolls…. and it doesn’t need to be Spring to enjoy them!
• Potted Yellow Rose Cupcakes– Great for Mother’s Day!
• If you go camping… maybe RV camping. I’ve got some great recipes for ya!
• How would you like some tips on Coloring Eggs, perfect for Easter!
• Blueberry Apricot Cake a wonderful Spring Cake
• Coconut Robin’s Eggs Cake
• Lemon Sprinkle Cookies
• Carrot Cake Recipe- so many options, loaf pan, bundt, 8″ round, 9×13 sheet cake.

• Bunny Cookies, these really are my all-time favorite spring cookies.
• Carrot Cake Scones-Oh, these are so yummy!

• Chocolate Cake Lavender Frosting_OMG what until you see how cute this is for Easter as well!

MORE Holiday Recipes 

I also have a Holiday Recipe Ebook that combines lots of favorites.

Don’t forget French Bread Stuffing goes with EVERYTHING!

The post Ham-quick and easy recipes using ham first appeared on Created by Diane.