Handrafted

Grandma B’s Banana Bread

September 20, 2018 3:00 AM September 20, 2018

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Growing up one of my favorite memories was using my Great Grandmother’s cane as a microphone while I sang my heart out for anyone that would listen….

Growing up one of my favorite memories was using my Great Grandmother’s cane as a microphone while I sang my heart out for anyone that would listen. Ha ha ha fast forward a few years and now I only sing in large groups without microphones. 😂 Grandma B was always such a kind and nurturing soul, it truly was a blessing to know her. This banana bread recipe is one of her’s that my mom has made for me my whole life. Now it is my turn!

Time to transform those icky brown bananas into banana bread magic! ✨

Recipe Notes: The bread pictured is the Pumpkin Spice version. In addition, I added a liberal serving of chia, hemp and flax seeds with a tablespoon of espresso.

Makes for the perfect breakfast bread!

5 from 3 votes

Grandma B's Banana Bread

This easy and delicious banana bread recipe is sure to please. Passed down from my Great Grandmother it has stood the test of time.

Try adding a few ingredients to make the Pumpkin Spice version!

Course bread, Breakfast, Dessert

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour

Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients

1/2 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
3 bananas mashed
2 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
Optional: Nuts, Seeds or Espresso Powder

Pumpkin Spice Version

1/2 can canned pumpkin puree
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Blend all ingredients (except nuts, optional) together in a large bowl.
Pour batter into greased loaf pan.
Bake for 50-60 minutes (add 20-25 minutes for Pumpkin Spice).
Remove from the oven only after a knife or skewer is removed from the middle clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert on a cooling rack. Let cool on the rack completely before sealing in an airtight container.

3,896 Comments

C R E A T I V I T Y

Salted Espresso Dark Chocolate Brownies

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September 13, 2018 3:00 AM September 13, 2018

14714 views

3,601 Comments

I stumbled upon this Salted Espresso Fudge Brownie recipe by the amazing www.butterandbrioche.com. Thalia’s blog and Instagram are filled with the most amazing pictures of the most delectable foods. (Seriously #igfeedgoals)! We have a house guest coming in tomorrow for the night, which is always the best excuse to try out a new dessert recipe. 🙌🏼

As I reviewed Thalia’s recipe I realized that it was a little over my skill level and would require more free time than I had 🙆🏻. With the photos of these brownies dancing in my head, I decided to use her recipe as inspiration for a quicker, less pastry chef level dessert 🙈. Although I am certain the original recipe would blow my socks off the option below is incredibly tasty.

First, collect your ingredients. To save time I used a boxed Dark Chocolate brownie mix.

Make the brownies as instructed on the box with the addition of espresso powder and dark chocolate chips.

Bake as instructed on the box and then let cool in the pan.

Now by using a mix for the brownies, we were able to save time and effort. For the frosting, however, we are making it from scratch and believe me – it is worth it. To begin, melt the finely chopped dark chocolate in a double boiler. Stirring constantly. Meanwhile, combine the room temperature butter and powdered sugar, mix together until light yellow. Then slowly add the melted chocolate. Mix together as you add the remaining whipping cream, espresso powder, vanilla extract and cocoa powder. Continue to mix until the frosting is light brown and fluffy. Once brownies are cool apply a generous layer of the frosting to the top. Store in the fridge until ready to serve. Directly before serving sprinkle some sea salt flakes on the top.

Enjoy!

xo,

5 from 2 votes

Salted Espresso Dark Chocolate Brownies

Gooey dark chocolate brownies with a homemade salted espresso chocolate frosting make for a super indulgent treat!

Course Dessert

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

1 box dark chocolate brownie mix
1 tsp espresso powder
pinch salt
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips preferably not chunks or pieces

For the Frosting:

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips finely chopped
3/4 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/8 cup cocoa powder
2 tsp espresso powder
1 tsp vanilla bean extract

Instructions

For the Brownies:

Grease the pan and prepare for baking.
Pre-heat the oven per the instructions on the box.
Whisk together the brownie mix, espresso powder, oil, water, eggs and salt.
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly incorporated throughout the batter. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
Bake per the box instructions, or until the brownie is firm around the edges and just set in the middle. A knife inserted into the middle should come out of the middle with a few moist crumbs attached, not clean. Remove from the oven and allow the brownie to cool completely in the pan.

For the Frosting: (From the kitchen of www.butterandbrioche.com)

First, melt down the chocolate in a double boiler. Heat, over medium-low and stirring often, until melted and smooth. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Meanwhile, in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the beater attachment, beat together the butter and powdered sugar on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 4 minutes. Set the mixer speed to medium-low and slowly stream in the melted chocolate. Return the speed back to medium and beat until well combined, a further 2 minutes. Beat in the cream, cocoa, espresso, and vanilla until incorporated. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat for a further minute, or until the frosting is lightened in color, smooth, and aerated.
When you’re ready to frost the cooled brownies, use an offset palette knife or the back of a metal spoon to thickly spread the frosting over the top of the brownie. At this point, I like to chill the brownie for about half an hour to slightly set the top so it’s easier to cut, but, you could serve the brownies straight away. Make sure to sprinkle over a little pinch of flaked salt or fleur de sel, right before serving.

3,601 Comments

M I N D F U L N E S S

Tips to Stay Organized & On Task

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September 6, 2018 3:00 AM September 6, 2018

14153 views

3,668 Comments

Lately, it feels like life is spinning faster and faster, that there is always something more I should be doing and that there will never be enough time. As I…

Lately, it feels like life is spinning faster and faster, that there is always something more I should be doing and that there will never be enough time. As I work to manage this spinning top I have found some useful organizational tips to keep myself on task.

Step One: Write Everything Down

The first step in processing life as we know it today is to get everything that is swirling around your head down on paper. Many times I will feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of things running through my head. By putting pen to paper often times the list is much LESS daunting than I thought it was.

Step Two: Prioritize The List

Taking the time to empty your thoughts can truly be therapeutic. Once the items are on the list take the time to prioritize them. I have found a very useful tool to help prioritize your tasks. This tool uses the box below and is known as The Eisenhower Matrix (explained beautifully here on BrightonTheDay.com).

Step Three: Assess Overall Value & Time Consumption

Review your (now prioritized) list and weigh each 1st Quadrant item based on its overall value and the time it will take to complete. For example, if sending a calendar invite gets the ball rolling for an important meeting choose that over getting your notes and presentation perfected for the said meeting. Choose the items that can be completed the quickest and will get you closer to your goal.

Step Four: Be Flexible

This one is important – for you and those around you. Life is constantly changing, we all know that, and working from a list can sometimes heighten a person’s OCD tendencies. 🙋🏻🙋🏻🙋🏻As you formulate and complete your list be open to new items, new priorities and overall change. The more flexible you are towards these changes the better you will respond and redirect. As these changes come into your life, use the matrix to work it into your plan.

Step Five: Eliminate

Removing items from the list that are not important or urgent is crucial for maximum productivity. Your time is valuable and you need to be sure to spend it in a manner that will get you where you want to go. As you move through your list reevaluate – you might find that items get moved into the 4th Quadrant as you get more done. Don’t be afraid to cut things from the list.

How do you stay organized and on task?

Are you a list person? Planner person? I want to know, tell me below!

xo,

3,668 Comments

O I L S W E L L N E S S

An Introduction to Wellness Through Essential Oils

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August 30, 2018 3:00 AM August 30, 2018

20933 views

3,902 Comments

I got my first diffuser for Christmas 2016 (shout out to the in-laws 🙌🏼) and made my first Young Living purchase in Spring of 2017. From that moment I haven’t looked…

I got my first diffuser for Christmas 2016 (shout out to the in-laws 🙌🏼) and made my first Young Living purchase in Spring of 2017. From that moment I haven’t looked back! Collecting one or two oils a month and learning as I go. Essential oils are so versatile and beneficial so I decided to start a new category here at Handrafted.com. 🎉 A category where we talk about overall wellness and learn together about essential oils!

What are essential oils?

es·sen·tial oil

əˈsen(t)SHəl oil/

noun

plural noun: essential oils

a natural oil typically obtained by distillation and having the characteristic fragrance of the plant or other source from which it is extracted.

In other words, an oil derived from a natural substance, usually either for its healing properties or aroma.

How are essential oils extracted?

Essential oils are extracted through distillation. Distillation is the process of purifying a liquid by heating and cooling. This process takes raw materials, under pressure and heats them up using steam. Inside the tank water vapor containing the essential oil condenses as it makes contact with cold surfaces within the tank. The condensation is then drained into a holding tank where the water and oil naturally separate. The water is removed leaving the pure essential oil that we love so much.

The amount of raw materials it takes to create these pure essential oils is shocking! For example, to extract one 15 mL bottle of YL Lemon oil it takes the rine of 75 lemons. 😳

🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋
🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋
🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋
🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋
🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋

That’s right, 75 lemons! Crazy to think what all goes into each and every bottle!

Common Uses for Essential Oils

There are three ways to use essential oils: Topically, Aromatically and Internally. Over the next couple months we will delve into each one, but for today I just wanted to touch on each on briefly (As those blog posts are added, I will link them here for quick navigation.)

Topically: Essential oils are easily absorbed through the skin. Using essential oils by applying to the skin is a great way to see fast results. Once the oil is applied to the skin it is absorbed and enters the bloodstream almost immediately.
- 🚨Essential oils should almost always be diluted before being used topically – we’ll talk more about dilution soon!
Aromatically: Essential oils are great for use in your diffuser, in a hot shower or perfume. Essential oils in an aromatic form affect the human body by activating the Olfactory Nerve which in turns activates the Limbic System. The Limbic System is a complex system that controls mood and instinct. By activating this system through essential oils you can experience changes in emotion.
Internally: There are some essential oils like the Young Living Vitality line that are diluted for safe consumption right out of the bottle. These are great to add to hot tea, dessert or dinner. In addition to their health benefits, essential oils can provide wonderful flavor due to their purity.
- 🚨Some pure essential oils can be used internally if researched properly. Ingestion of essential oils can be a powerful treatment but can also cause irritation if done incorrectly.

Below are common uses for five of my favorite oils!

Do you use essential oils in your home? Do you have specific questions about essential oils?

Let me know if the comments below!

xo,

Carolyn

3,902 Comments

A D V E N T U R E

COFFEE TIME – Perk Beverage Co.

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August 23, 2018 3:00 AM August 23, 2018

20234 views

3,979 Comments

As you pull in to Vale, Oregon you can’t help but notice the newest building on Highway 20. At the corner of Highway 20 and 17th St N, you will…

As you pull in to Vale, Oregon you can’t help but notice the newest building on Highway 20. At the corner of Highway 20 and 17th St N, you will find a great new coffee spot in town! Whether you’re looking for a drive-thru or a quiet spot to read Perk Beverage Co. has you covered.

Hours

Perk Beverage Co. is open Monday – Saturday with hours during the week ranging from 6:00 am -7:00 pm and Saturdays from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. No matter the time of day Perk has a comfy place for you to sit and a hot (or cold) beverage at the ready.

Perk Beverage Co. offers your traditional coffee beverages, teas, fresh fruit smoothies and Italian Sodas. During my visit, I stuck to my standard drip coffee with sugar and a splash of cream. The coffee was full-bodied and smooth – absolutely delightful! Coming in at $ 2.00 for a 20 oz cup I was pleasantly surprised! Adreena went for a fresh fruit smoothie while Aaron chose a Breve.

In addition to drinks, Perk Beverage Co. has you covered on the snack and food front! From freshly baked pastries to paninis and salads – regardless of time, they are sure to please.

A Place to Socialize

Perk Beverage Co. prides itself in being a gathering place for the community as well as a stopping point for passers-by. It’s convenient location and roomy interior are perfectly paired to meet that mission. Perk offers free wi-fi, a selection of board games, ample parking, clean bathrooms and great customer service! What more could you ask for?

Well, there is one more thing… and adult beverage would be nice now and again. 😉 Well actually Perk Beverage Co. does serve adult beverages, they offer a selection of canned beers and wines for consumption during your visit. 🍻

If you ever passing by be sure to stop in, you’ll be happy you did!

Until next week, cheers to Friday Jr. ✨

xo,

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C R E A T I V I T Y

Back to School – FREE Printables

admin

August 16, 2018 3:00 AM August 16, 2018

9786 views

3,557 Comments

It is that time of the year again – school is back in session! Whether you are excited for the peace and quiet or nervous for the life changes ahead this…

It is that time of the year again – school is back in session! Whether you are excited for the peace and quiet or nervous for the life changes ahead this time of the year can be very busy and downright stressful. Between school supplies, new clothes, doctors visits and paperwork the last thing on many of our minds is the obligatory first-day picture.

To help take one thing off your list this year I have created two free downloads! In each download, you will find signs for all grade levels stretching from Day School to 12th grade. Click on the icon below, download the link and then print the page that works for your child. Voyla! One less thing. 🙌🏼

Download Now!

As we move into the fall and get the ball rolling on this school year let us all work to relax about the small things, be present at every opportunity and embrace our kiddos at every juncture. They grow up way too fast to sweat the small stuff.

Cheers to a successful 2018 – 2019 school year!

xo,

3,557 Comments

Grandma B's Banana Bread

Ingredients

Pumpkin Spice Version

Instructions

Salted Espresso Dark Chocolate Brownies

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

For the Frosting:

Instructions

For the Brownies:

For the Frosting: (From the kitchen of www.butterandbrioche.com)

Step One: Write Everything Down

Step Two: Prioritize The List

Step Three: Assess Overall Value & Time Consumption

Step Four: Be Flexible

Step Five: Eliminate

What are essential oils?

How are essential oils extracted?

Common Uses for Essential Oils

Hours

Menu

A Place to Socialize