The Pink Veranda

I made this dip last week when we had company coming to visit.  It is strawberry season in this part of the country and I wanted to use the berries I bought from the local farmer's market.  I thought this would make a nice snack for our guests when they arrived and it did! This dip has a terrific strawberry and coconut flavor and the toasted coconut and strawberry slices makes a nice garnish. You really cannot stop eating it.  It has a light fresh flavor and the use of Greek yogurt makes it a healthier version than a fruit dip made with sour cream.  You can also substitute blueberries and just about any other berries for this recipe. Enjoy! Strawberry Coconut Greek Yogurt Dip Yield:   8-10 servings Ingredients 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1 cup plain Greek yogurt 8 tablespoons powdered sugar 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped ½ teaspoon coconut extract 1/2 cup toasted coconut + 1 tablespoon to garnish Instructions In...

I love making desserts and this is one of my favorite fall treats for my family.  The base is a dough that tastes a little like shortbread but it is softer and less dense. Then there is a layer of velvety caramel that is topped with more of the yummy dough.  What makes this bar so darn good is the addition of fleur de sel.  I use fleur de sel because I feel it goes well with caramel, but any other type of coarse salt will do. What you taste when you bite into each bar is the sweet and salty flavor of the caramel and salt combination.  So good, a little unexpected and you will find after the first bite that it's so hard to eat just one! Here's the recipe, enjoy! Salted Caramel Bars Ingredients 2 cups butter, softened 1 cup white sugar 1½ cups powdered sugar 1 tablespoon vanilla 4 cups flour 1 -14 oz bag caramels, unwrapped ⅓ cup whipping cream ½ teaspoon vanilla 2 teaspoons fleur de sel salt or other coarse sea salt Instructions ...