Lesson #145: Cookie Dough Pretzel Bites

What is better than chocolate chip cookie dough frosting sandwiched between two salty pretzels dipped in milk chocolate and covered with sprinkles? Nothing, I'd say!

This is the perfect summer dessert because it doesn't need to bake and can be whipped up with very little time & effort. I love the combination of sweet and salty and I've been OBSESSED with sprinkles lately.

In fact, I made these treats for my summer intro to psychology class after they took their first exam. I think I said something like "Sprinkles make everything better, so don't stress about how you did on the exam". My students probably like I'm crazy! :)

LESSON LEARNED: Don't want to mess with the hassle of sandwiches? Make the cookie dough frosting and use it as a dip for the pretzels. I took some to my family and it was a big hit with kids!

Recipe for Cookie Dough Pretzel Bites

Lesson #142: Funfetti Cookies

I started teaching a summer class of Introduction to Psychology last week and I wanted to make my students a treat to bring into class. I decided on these cute cookies because they are DELICIOUS and look like a lot of fun. Really, how could you go wrong with adding sprinkles to cookies?

They are basically a sugar cookie with almond extract and sprinkles in the batter. I made them into teaspoon sized balls so they were the perfect snack size. I bought in a few dozen to class and the container was empty by the end of class. That's the way to spice up lectures on research methods in psychology! :)

LESSON LEARNED: Bake these cookies a little underdone and they will firm up as they set. The result is a cakey, soft cookie.

Recipe for Funfetti Cookies

Lesson #138: Funfetti Cupcakes

Last weekend I was asked by my cousin to make birthday cupcakes for her son's second birthday party. She didn't have any requests besides baking some of the cupcakes in ice cream cones so it was easier for the little kids at the party to grab-and-go with their dessert.  That was such a great idea!

I adapted my favorite vanilla cake recipe by adding a ton of sprinkles to make "Funfetti Cupcakes". For half of the cupcakes, I baked the batter in regular cupcake liners and added an edible image on top (which I purchased on Etsy). For the other cupcakes, I baked the cake in ice cream cones, topped them with a swirl of frosting, and garnished with sprinkles. They were super fun and the kids absolutely loved them!

I only had my cell phone camera when I set up the cake, but you'll get the general idea. The birthday boy is the one driving his birthday present Jeep!

 LESSON LEARNED: Sometimes cupcakes baked in the ice cream cones will sink after they come out of the oven. Don't worry - just cover the top with a swirl of frosting and no one will ever know!

Recipe for Funfetti Cupcakes