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mamachallenge | Real Solutions for Real Parents | Dallas Blog

Real Solutions for Real Parents by Autumn Rose Reo

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Healthy Avocado Cappuccino Truffles

January 11, 2021 By Autumn Rose Reo 26 Comments

What’s better than truffles? Healthy truffles! With 5 ingredients you can make healthy avocado cappuccino truffles with a secret ingredient – AVOCADOS!

Disclaimer

It doesn’t take much for me to stop for coffee…especially ICED COFFEE. However, when you’re trying to lose weight,  you don’t give up those calories easily for coffee. 

But with the new Skinny Cow Iced Coffee, you can have your coffee and eat it, too. However, who wants to eat cake by yourself? So I called some of my best gal pals over to catch up after the holidays for a fun and easy “Coffee Break” party to try the three Skinny Cow Iced Coffee flavors paired with my new recipe for healthy truffles!


Skinny-Cow-Ice-Coffee

While I love hosting a party with a good theme, I didn’t have much time for much creativity although I still wanted the get together to feel special.  Nowadays it’s hard to have a time everyone can pause, even just for an hour, but it actually didn’t take much to create a “cafe-inspired table” with coffee filter flowers, a coffee candle and my healthy, five-ingredient cappuccino truffles.

Coffee-Filters-Flowers

Using some leftover recycled coffee filters, straws and some ground coffee, I easily made a nice tablescape with “coffee flowers.” I think they turned out adorable and the aroma of coffee each time I walked by was amazing for this coffee lover.

Skinny-Cow-Iced-Coffee

Skinny Cow has long been a favorite in our house for their ice cream sandwiches and other sweet treats, but now at only 120 calories for iced coffee, I don’t have to choose if I treat myself with an iced coffee. I can enjoy three flavors of Skinny Cow Iced Coffees: Creamy Cappuccino, Mocha Latte and Vanilla Latte.

Skinny-Cow-Cappuccino

No matter if it’s cold outside or a blazin’ 100 degrees, Skinny Cow Iced Coffee is perfect for a morning or afternoon pick-me-up! Each of the flavors featured the delicious flavor of coffee with a subtle hint of some of my favorite flavors. Since we were having an iced coffee tasting party, we each took turns enjoying each flavor starting with the Vanilla Latte, then Creamy Cappuccino and last the Mocha Latte. And just like my friends; we all liked a different one for different reasons!

Skinny-Cow-Iced-Coffee-Tasting-Party

While I really could enjoy my Skinny Cow Iced Coffee as a treat in itself, I wanted a little something for the party. But since we all are trying to eat healthier, I wanted to make something that was healthy and paired perfectly with coffee. An idea brewed: Cappuccino Truffles! Using a fun recipe I found online with one REALLY unique ingredient, I was able to make them quickly, easily and really healthy! And based on the reviews from my friends, this recipe is a real keeper! Did I mention it only had five ingredients, too?

Avocado-Cappucino-Truffles

 

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Healthy Avocados Truffles


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These healthy cappuccino truffles only have five ingredients – including avocado instead of butter or milk!


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Ingredients

6 oz. chocolate (the darker you go the better)

1/3 cup mashed avocado (small avocado)

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

pinch of salt

1 tablespoon instant espresso powder

2 tablespoons cocoa powder, for rolling (optional)


Instructions

  1. Combine the chocolate, vanilla and salt over a double boiler, and melt until completely smooth. (This can also be done in the microwave.)
  2. Mash the avocado with a fork until no lumps are visible and then stir it into the melted chocolate mixture until smooth.
  3. Place in the fridge to set for 20 minutes.
  4. Once slightly firm, roll the chocolate into 12 balls and place them on a pan lined with parchment paper. (Don’t roll them in your hands for long or they will begin to melt.)
  5. Place the 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and instant espresso powder in bowl and roll each truffle into the cocoa to coat.
  6. Serve at room temperature, but need to be refrigerated to be stored.

Did you make this recipe?

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Avocado-Cappuccino-Truffles

 

 Other ways you might enjoy your avocados! 

baked-eggs-avocado

 

Hostess with the Mostest: Macaroni and Cheese Bar

June 13, 2020 By Autumn Rose Reo 30 Comments

What’s better than macaroni and cheese? NOTHING. Well except macaroni and cheese with stuff in it. Make your small gathering the easiest and cheesiest with a macaroni and cheese bar. 

Want to get people all excited? Ask them about what makes the perfect mac and cheese. 

Is it multiple cheeses? Is it just processed cheese? On the stove or in the oven? There are so many ways and so many opinions. 

Macaroni-Cheese--Bar


A few years ago the mashed potato bar became the big trend for weddings and fancy parties. First because who doesn’t love mashed potatoes, but more so because it allowed everyone to personalize their meal just the way they wanted. I like to call this “Starbucking” phenomenon and for the most part, it always works! Plus – it’s really easy to lay out options and let guests do the work. 

Macaroni-Cheese--Bar

Now just like cupcakes went to donuts, mashed potatoes has gone to macaroni and cheese. Other than a few basics, there’s not one way to do it – just let their creativity take over. I love this option and so will they! Here’s how we did this on Good Morning Texas. 

 

How to Make a Mac and Cheese Bar

The Base

First off you’ll need a great, basic macaroni and cheese recipe. To keep the noodles warm, I suggest making a macaroni and cheese recipe in the slowcooker. Based on this recipe, I’ve added a few touches to make it noodleriffic (see below.) 

Macaroni-Cheese-Bar

The Toppings 

Once you have this down, the fun begins. What sounds good to you? I’ve put together a few common elements of toppings that are popular, but don’t let it end there. Taking a little inspiration from your favorite menus, add ingredients that together make a whole new dish. For instance, one favorite is Buffalo Mac and Cheese. So don’t forget buffalo sauce and chicken as toppings. And because sometimes people want recommendations, add a few suggested menu ideas just in case!

Macaroni-Cheese-Bar

Topping Suggestions
  • Buffalo 
  • Grilled Chicken 
  • Lobster
  • Spinach / Artichoke 
  • Bacon 
  • Weenies 
  • More Cheese 
  • Pico de Gallo 
  • Jalapenos, chopped/sliced/diced 
  • Broccoli 
  • Breadcrumbs 
  • Black Beans/Corn 
  • Chili / BBQ 

Macaroni-Cheese--Bar

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Best Macaroni & Cheese for a Macaroni & Cheese Bar


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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The best kind of macaroni and cheese is the one that you make! Make any party fun with a mac n cheese bar!


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Ingredients

  • 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons butter (1/4 cup) cut into pieces
  • 2 1/2 cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (I prefer Greek yogurt)
  • One can condensed Cheddar cheese soup, (10 3/4-ounce can)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Boil the macaroni in a 2 quart saucepan in plenty of water until tender, about 7 minutes. Drain.
  2. In a medium saucepan, mix butter and cheese. Stir until the cheese melts.
  3. In a slow cooker, combine cheese/butter mixture and add sour cream, soup, salt, milk, nutmeg, mustard and pepper and stir well.
  4. Add drained macaroni and stir again. Set the slow cooker on low setting and cook for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Notes

  • Now add any toppings you want! We share tips and recommendations for the Best Macaroni & Cheese Bar on mamachallenge.com

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge

What makes your favorite macaroni and cheese?
 

Macaroni-and-Cheese-Bar

COPYCAT Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe

June 25, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo 46 Comments

Nothing is better than Blue Bell homemade vanilla ice cream. And we have a copycat recipe that tastes just like Blue Bell at home and tips to for making the best ice cream. 

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There’s nothing more Texan than  a big bowl of homemade vanilla ice cream straight from Brenham’s Blue Bell Creameries in the middle of July. However, you often hear when someone moves up north, the sweet taste of BB is no where to be found (and everything fails in comparison.) 

Bluebell-Copycat-Homemade-Vanilla-Ice-Cream-Recipe


So in times like these (or during a little shortage catastrophe), I’ve worked to create the best version I could of the real thing using a simple and easy ice cream maker.  Don’t believe me that it’s possible?

Make it yourself, take a bite and tell me I’m wrong. (Really, I want you to!) 

Never made homemade ice cream before? Think it takes tons of work? You’re wrong! You just need a few tips and an ice cream maker. Of course, there’s tons of ice cream makers out there – you just need to find the right one for you! Check out my review of several on Good Morning Texas.

Best Ice Cream Sodas Ever

While I created my recipe for Bluebell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream with the old school Hamilton ice maker (no switch is even on this baby), there are other ways to create a creamy treat – even some without using dairy! Take a look at these gadgets – especially the fun ones that have you take an active roll is making you scream for your ice cream.

Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker

Hamilton Beach Ice Cream Maker

Dessert Bullet

T-Fall Ice Cream Maker

F-Fal Ice Cream Maker

Ya Labs Ice Cream Maker Ball

Yay Labs! Ice Cream Ball

Chill Factor Ice Cream MakerChill Factor Ice Cream Maker

Bluebell-Homemade-Vanilla-Ice-Cream-MamaChallenge

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COPYCAT Bluebell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream


★★★★★

5 from 5 reviews

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Recipe created by Autumn Reo of MamaChallenge.com.


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Ingredients

  • 6 eggs yolks
  • 2 cups white sugar
  • 24 oz. heavy cream
  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
  • Whole Milk (about 2 cups)

Instructions

  1. Cream eggs and sugar.
  2. Then add cream and condensed milk and vanilla.
  3. Beat until well blended.
  4. Pour into ice cream churn.
  5. Add milk until to fill line.
  6. Insert dasher.
  7. Pack cooler with layer of ice, then rock salt, and continue to repeat until full.
  8. It’s done when it won’t churn anymore.

Did you make this recipe?

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Ready to dress up that ice cream? We have the best ice cream sodas! 

Best Ice Cream Sodas Ever

Quiche Lorraine with Hashbrown Crust

March 20, 2019 By Autumn Rose Reo 21 Comments

Hashbrown-Quiche-MamaChallenge

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Quiche Lorraine with Hashbrown Crust


★★★★★

5 from 1 reviews

  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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A wonderful brunch make-ahead recipe!


Scale

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted, divided in half
  • 1 package 16 oz. frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup ham, chopped
  • 1 Tablespoon minced, fresh oregano
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  2. Brush a 9-by-2 1/2-inch springform pan with 2 TBSP. melted butter.
  3. Line the sides of the pan with strips of parchment paper, brush paper with butter too.
  4. In a large bowl, mix hash browns with butter, 1 egg, salt and pepper.
  5. Squeeze all the water / moisture out of the hashbrowns in a colander and let dry.  
  6. Press hash brown mixture onto bottom and up the sides of your prepared pan. 
  7. Press firmly to mold the potatoes against the edges.
  8. Place on a rimmed baking sheet; bake until set and the edges of the hash browns are lightly browned.
  9. In a large bowl, whisk the remaining eggs and milk, then add the rest of the ingredients. Pour into prepared crust.
  10. Bake until set, 45 to 50 minutes and allow to cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Perfect Mother’s Day, Easter, Christmas or a another great holiday!

Did you make this recipe?

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Easter-Brunch

Cool Down with Unique Ice Cream Sodas

July 9, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 14 Comments

Before there was Starbucks…there were Ice Cream Soda shops. And there weren’t WiFi connections or grab and go. You waited your turn to get your special unique ice cream soda and just enjoyed it. 

People gathered to catch up, go on a date, talk business and enjoy life’s simple joys of creamy, delicious, delectable concoctions with a straw and without a device. Just being able to share a Coca-Cola float sprinkled with a few peanuts atop a whip cream (considered the bees knees at the time) was a big treat and no one worried about calories.

Ice-Cream-Soda

Photo Credit

Those were the days. And I wouldn’t mind a little moment in a poodle skirt to enjoy one.


While we can’t experience the fun of a soda jerk bringing your favorite soda to the table at too many places anymore, you can play the part at home developing your own unique ice cream sodas. All you need is your imagination to devise your own creations using some of those fun sodas like from Sparkling Ice or Mexican sodas like Juanitos, interesting ice creams in the pint section, and one super cold glass.

And don’t forget your fat pants (this is a great time to find your old maternity pants.)

Ice-Cream-Sodas

So cool off this summer with some of the best recipes for ice cream sodas like we’re making on Good Morning Texas.


All of today’s recipes were made with ingredients found at Tom Thumb/Randalls Stores. However, you can find many of these at your local grocery store in the soda and ice cream aisle (except the beer for our truly fantastic Grownups version of Chocolate Brownie Ice Cream Float.

[Tweet “Tip: Cold Ice Cream + Cold Soda + Cold Glass = Perfect Ice Cream Soda”]

ICE CREAM SODA RECIPES

Cherry-Vanilla-Coke-Ice-Cream-Soda

“The Original” With a Twist – Cherry Coke Float with Peanuts
2 scoops of cherry vanilla ice cream
1 Coca-Cola
Whip Cream
Cherry
Peanuts sprinkled on the top
Or you could use Vanilla Ice Cream with Cherry Coke

Pina-Colada-Ice-Cream-Soda

Pina Colada
2 scoops Coconut Ice Cream
1 Pineapple Soda
Whip Cream

Caramel-Ice-Cream-Soda

Caramel Apple Soda
2 scoops of Caramel Ice Cream
1 Apple Soda
Caramel drizzle

Strawberry Limeade/Lemonade
2 scoops of Strawberry Ice Cream
1 Lemonade or Lime Soda

Guinness Float with Java Chip Ice Cream

Chocolate Brownie with Stout
2 scoops of chocolate ice cream like a dutch or fudge
1 Guinness, Shiner or preferred Chocolate Stout from Dallas Deep Ellum Beer
Sprinkle crumbled brownies at the top

Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream Soda
2 scoops of Peanut Butter Ice Cream
1 Grape Soda

Now make sure to spring for straws and a long spoon to really enjoy sodas the way they were meant to be! 

What’s your favorite ice cream soda flavor? 

Soda

Bluebell-Homemade-Vanilla-Ice-Cream-MamaChallenge

Super Summer Supper: Lemonade Inspired Recipes

July 5, 2018 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

There’s nothing more summer than a glass of cold lemonade! We’ve the secret to the perfect glass and several other super lemonade inspired recipes for a perfect summer dish or sweetie! (As seen on EyeOpener TV) 

Beyonce may have made lemonade the spotlight on iTunes, this super summer time drink has long been the star of the summer for centuries. History says lemonade may have even been created by the Egyptians in as easy as the 14th century. However, taste buds for hundreds of years have kept this simple sipper of lemon, sugar, and water a #1 classic.

Lemonade-Recipes


But why stop at just lemonade to drink? Inspired by the delicious flavor of lemonade, we’ve put together a whole summer supper featuring lemonade. However, we wouldn’t suggest eating them all at one time; but a few of these will give you the taste of summer in every bite! 

But not all lemonade is the same. What’s the perfect combination to make it THE BEST? It’s an easy combination, but it starts with something called simple syrup!

Perfect Lemonade

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Perfect Lemonade


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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Great lemonade starts with simple syrup for this perfect lemonade recipe!


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Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 gallon water
  • 2 cups lemon juice
  • Lemons, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Start off the simple syrup by adding 2 cups sugar and 2 cups water in a saucepan.
  2. Bring to boil over medium heat.
  3. Stir until the sugar dissolves and then remove from heat.
  4. Next add add simple syrup, gallon of water and fresh lemon juice to pitcher. Still well.
  5. Garnish with lemon slices.

Notes

  • Don’t use presqueezed lemonade! It’s much more bitter than you want for lemonade.

Did you make this recipe?

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Lemonade-Chicken

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Lemonade Chicken


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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This lemonade-inspired chicken includes a lemon marinate and lemon batter for the perfect mix of lemon, crispy chicken made in the oven.


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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 5 chicken drumsticks
  • salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or seasoning salt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Mix half the lemon zest and the lemon juice in a large bowl.
  2. Add 1/2 cup water, sugar and whisk to dissolve.
  3. Add the buttermilk.
  4. Poke chicken fork and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Place in a plastic zipper bag.
  6. Add the marinade and refrigerate overnight.
  7. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
  8. To batter the chicken: Mix panko, thyme, lemon zest, seasonings in a large resealable plastic bag.
  9. Shake to mix.
  10. In a bowl, add mayonnaise and roll chicken in mayo.
  11. Then add chicken to the bag and shake to coat.
  12. Spray the pan with cooking spray and to chicken.
  13. Bake until golden, about 35 minutes.
  14. Turn over and then bake until browned and crisp.

Did you make this recipe?

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StrawberryLemonadePie

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Strawberry Lemonade Pie


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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A slice of this pie is the taste of summer with strawberries and lemonade! AND it only takes a few minutes to make!


Scale

Ingredients

  • Tub Whip Cream (in the tub)
  • 12 ounce can lemonade concentrate
  • 1 can condensed milk (12 ounces)
  • 1 cup strawberries, chopped
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • lemon and strawberries for garnish
  • Graham Cracker Crust (Purchase at the grocery store or made from scratch!)

Instructions

  1. in a blender, puree strawberries and sugar together until combined.
  2. With a mixer, combine the rest of the ingredients (except the crust) until blended.
  3. Poor lemonade mixture into crust.
  4. Poor strawberry mixture over lemonade mixture. Use a spoon or knife to swirl.
  5. Add crust top back to pie and then freeze overnight (or at least 8 hours.)
  6. Keep frozen until ready to serve.

Did you make this recipe?

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Don’t miss this #mamachallenge moment:
Watermelon-Blue-Cheesepin

Peach-and-Proscuitto-Salad-MamaChallenge

 

Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms

November 20, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 29 Comments

The holidays may bring opportunities for fancy dinners and cocktail parties, but it’s the impromptu moments that sometimes mean the most like these easy Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms.

During the holidays, you always be prepared with a shortlist of simple and quick go-to recipes like these mushrooms stuffed with Boursin® cheese to earn you the reputation as the holiday hostess with the mostess – even if you didn’t put forth much effort!

Basil-Mushrooms

I love that the holidays remind us to spending together. It’s so easy all year long to let everything get in the way, but at least between rolling out the first big orange pumpkin until the Big Ball drops on January 1, we try to make time to say hello, catch up and give that much-needed hug.


Wine

While you can’t always be ready with a fridge full of perfect appetizers ready to go, having a few staples around will make your guests think you’ve been slaving away for hours before they showed up! Check out the Walmart deli and produce areas for meats and cheeses like Boursin® to create a cheese plate and these Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms (that have less than five ingredients) paired with a good wine for a beautiful and delicious presentation to be proud to your own! 

ingredients

The feature of the Garlic and Herb stuffed mushrooms is creamy Boursin®  cheese. Seasoned with garlic and fine herbs wrapped in its signature foil, it’s hard not to devour this rich, but airy cheese before it’s stuffed into the mushrooms (just remember to buy two – one to nibble, one to use for the recipe.)

mushrooms

Because there’s already the great flavor of herbs and garlic, the cheese doesn’t need anything extra added to the filling. However, I added a few leaves of fresh basil chopped finely to just add a little more color to the mixture, but in a fix, you don’t have to worry about herbs. Lastly, topped with shredded Parmesan cheese and baked in the oven, you’ll have a sinfully decadent bite-sized app in just about 25-30 minutes.

Now just be ready for the rich smell of garlic that will take over your kitchen…it’s heavenly! 

boursin-cheese

For another quick app that will wow your gifts, make sure you always have veggies, breads and crackers around, especially during the holidays. You can present a serious spread by just pan frying a few slices of bread with butter then spreading a little Boursin®  Monterey Jack & Spicy Pepper Cheese Dip on the top.

Boursin-Dip

Or for a little healthier spin, stuff some of the creamy spread in celery sticks. Two apps in about two minutes (okay, maybe five), you’re ready to enjoy a little time to catch up with you eat up! 

Mushroom-Bite

You can try other recipes with Boursin® on its holiday resource www.boursinpartytricks.com.

Pinterest-Boursin

 

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Garlic and Herb Stuffed Mushrooms


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 25
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
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Description

A quick and easy yet impressive appetizer perfect for last-minute hospitality.


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Ingredients

  • Cooking Spray
  • 1 package whole mushrooms (white or portobellos)
  • 1 package Boursin® cheese
  • 2–3 basil leaves, chopped finely (optional)
  • 2 tablespoon parmesan cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Spray pan with cooking spray.
  3. Remove mushrooms steps from the caps. Chop stems finely.
  4. Combine chopped mushrooms, chopped basil and Boursin® cheese in a bowl until filly blended.
  5. Add mixture to mushroom caps until full and rounded.
  6. Place all the mushrooms in pan and then sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake mushrooms for 25-30 minutes until golden.
  8. When done, remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes and serve!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 10
  • Calories: 97
  • Sugar: 0
  • Sodium: 158
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 5
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 1
  • Protein: 6
  • Cholesterol: 25

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Apple Spice Rose Tarts

September 29, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 15 Comments

Need to make an impression, but don’t have the time? Be the apple of everyone’s eye with this Apple Rose Tart recipe with ginger! It’s the best thing since Apple Pie.

Thanks to Central Market Apple Festival for getting me to branch out with apples and partnering with us for this sweet treat. 

Tracking Pixel
This is the time of year that my insatiable desire to bake kicks into high gear. 

It could be the cooler temperatures that let me turn on the oven or the apple cinnamon potpourri that I’ve plugged into the house that smells like I’m already cooking, but nothing says fall more than breaking out the apron to get my bake on. 

Apple

For me thumbing through Granny’s old cookbooks curled up with a hot spicy mug of apple cider and a furry blanket is the perfect way to spend a day… 

Then reality sets in.

Too bad carpool, conference calls, and all that other craziness that comes up daily doesn’t allow for hours of  baking joy. And what normally happens I’ll have the perfect opportunity to make something special for some event and then I’ll have ZERO time to make it. 

I go through my head trying to think of all the great things I could make and then reality sets in and I pick up a box of cookies. #mamachallenge

This recipe for the apple rose tart is the best of both worlds: looks impressive but without much work at all. Slicing up your apples might be the hardest part.

Apples (11 of 29)

However, the best part is you can use whatever apples you choose. I’d suggest using anything that has a red/pink hue, but when you head to Apple Festival at Central Market, you have more than 35 varieties to choose from. A trip through produce is better than going apple picking in the orchard because you have the best in-season apples from all over the country and guides to help you choose just the right apple. 

Apple

At this apple wonderland, you can try and learn about so many varieties of apples. A few caught my eye like The Diva®, and the Crispin (juicy and ideal for dessert), but it was the Jonamac that became the apple of my eye. Described as having a “rich, sweet flavor with cinnamon spice notes – and great for baking,” I knew this bright red baby was coming home with me (along with many others!) 

Apple

Apple

Apple

To make these rose tarts you only need seven other ingredients including puff pastry, cream cheese and of course, a little sugar and cinnamon. 

The only other thing you’ll need is a good sharp knife to cut your beautiful apple into thin slices after you’ve cut it in half and removed the core and sees. 

Apple

However, there are a few notes you need to make note of for rose tarts.

Cut the apple horizontally on both halves to get the perfect slice.

Ideally you’re looking for the apples to keep the pretty red skin on as much of the slice as possible. 

It’s important to put the slices into a bowl of water and lemon juice and slightly cook. 

This serves two purposes: may seem like an extra step, but if you don’t follow, your slices will break when you try to roll them and the skins soften and maintain the red color rather than burn when they bake. 

Apple

Believe me, I tried it both ways to make sure what steps were absolutely necessary. Can you spot the apples that were slightly cooked and the ones that weren’t? 

Apples

Use a pizza cutter to make your four cuts into the puff pastry dough.

First cut in half and then half those halves for the exact right size. 

Apple

Roll and fold is the name of the game. 

The fun part is actually the rolling up the dough. When you roll up the pastry, the apples (which are malleable because they’ve been slightly cooked), bend and make the rose. It’s so pretty to see how each one comes out different like every real rose does. 

Apple

And don’t forget to fold up the puff pastry in half after you’ve added the apples! (It doesn’t work out well either.)

Apple

Put the tarts in the oven and for the next 35-40 minutes enjoy the aroma that will take over your kitchen. And then you’ll have around eight lovely apple rose tarts ready for presentation and for your palate pleasure! 

Apples 30 of 29

 

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Apple Spice Rose Tarts


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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Description

These easy rose tarts will make you the apple of everyone’s eye.


Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 apple
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 2 sheets puff pastry (normally what you find in a pastry box.
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ginger (enhances the apple and cinnamon combination.)

Instructions

  1. Cut an apple in half longwise to remove the core.
  2. Thinly slice the apple halves horizontally.
  3. In a bowl, add the apple slices with lemon juice and water and microwave for 2 minutes.
  4. Pat dry the apple slices and set aside.
  5. Roll out one of the puff pastry sheets and cut into 4 even strips (pizza cutter works great.)
  6. Spread cream cheese on 2/3 of the puff pastry and sprinkle sugar onto the puff pastry strips.
  7. Lay apple slices peel side up and overlap to cover the pastry.
  8. Sprinkle cinnamon and ginger on apples.
  9. Fold the pastry puff in half lengthwise and roll up to create tart.
  10. Place apple side up in a greased muffin pan.
  11. Bake for 40 minutes at 375 degrees.

Notes

  • This recipe will make 8 tarts.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @mamachallenge on Instagram and hashtag it #mamachallenge


During the Apple Festival at Central Market don’t miss the  other “applelicious” products  for you to try and sample to heart’s content. Apples are so versatile you can appreciate them in everything from your salads, your entree, your dessert and even in your liquid libations like apple cider. Check out the Apple Festival online along with several recipe ideas and more, here. 

Apple

This is a sponsored post for Central Market.

 

 

Best Fall Sandwich: Roasted Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

September 27, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo Leave a Comment

Move over pumpkin, brussels sprouts are this season’s flavor du jour. And this easy grilled cheese complete with caramelized onions and gouda is the easiest way to fall in love with fall all over again.

Like most kids, I hated brussels sprouts. 

Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

They spelled bad and they tasted worse. 


Then, like boys, and naps, as an adult, my taste changed and brussels sprouts became one of my favorite things. 

So when I found myself hungry for something different to eat one day at lunch, I did what we all have done…I stood in front of the fridge and stared at the contents waiting for them to whisper the best thing ever to make. 

Something that said, Alton Brown would approve. 

Something that said, “fall is in the air” and gave me the warm and fuzzies (instead of the heat that was actually trickling down my back from the Texas heat.) 

And something that said, “sandwich.” 

Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

I find that sandwiches are the best thing ever and with the exception of liverwurst, there’s not a lot that isn’t good between two slices of bread. 

Basking in the Frigidaire golden hue, the quick light bulb moment brought me to a brussels sprouts grilled cheese sandwich. 

How could that be bad? Right? 

But you know how it could be better? Caramelized onions…and GOUDA. 

Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

Unfortunately, I didn’t want an hour for the caramelized onions. Those babies make the world a better place, but not without a little blood, sweat and tears (literally.) 

But you know what – in a pickle – caramelized onions CAN happen with a little sweet shortcut. BROWN SHUGA. (Yes, brown sugar.) 

Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

So two skillets out – one for onions, one for bread I went to it. 

And in just about 15 minutes my new baby was born – the Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions. 

Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

And in just about 20 minutes I was biting into it and it was THAT good. 

A little crunch, a little sweetness, a little creamy gouda, and no meat. 

However, I’m pretty sure if you wanted to throw in a little bacon, it might cause you to do a little dance. 

Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

So the next time you sit down to some brussels at dinner, I’d suggest you either hold back a cup or two for leftovers or do what I do and double the batch just so you can make this. 

Take it from a gal named Autumn, you’ll be putting this in your recipe playlist. 

And song list suggestion for this dining moment: Take it from Billboard on this one and let it ride the whole way through. 

Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

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Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
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Description

This is the best flavors of fall sandwiched together between two pieces of bread.


Scale

Ingredients

  • 2 pieces bread (This is where crusty bread, especially gluten free does amazing!)
  • 1 cup brussels sprouts, sliced (you can use leftovers)
  • 1 onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon water
  • 1 slice gouda cheese (or 3!)

Instructions

  1. To make caramelized onions, melt tablespoon butter to a medium high skillet and add onions.
  2. Stir them around to not stick and let them begin breaking down.
  3. Add sugar and continue stirring. After a few minutes, add water and turn down heat to medium to let the water and sugar liquify into sweet sauce. Set aside.
  4. To cook brussels sprouts, melt butter to a medium hot skillet. Next add the brussels and still to cook.
  5. Depending on how you like yours, I like a little crunch, so let them get golden brown but not get completely wilted (I like a mix.)
  6. Next in another skillet add bread that’s been buttered on all sides.
  7. Let it get golden and add brussels sprouts and then onions.
  8. Lastly, add cheese and cover with slice.
  9. Let both sides get nice and golden.
  10. Serve immediately!

Notes

  • You can use other cheeses, but Gouda has a great flavor and melts perfectly with these ingredients.

Did you make this recipe?

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Brussels Sprouts Grilled Cheese

Cinnamon Peanut Butter Granola

August 18, 2017 By Autumn Rose Reo 1 Comment

If you love peanuts you’ll love this easy recipe for breakfast granola made with peanut butter and roasted peanuts. Once you make this, you’ll never buy cereal ever again! 

Thank you to the Texas Peanut Producers Board for sharing that there’s a lot more to peanuts than peanuts and for this sponsored post. 

Peanut-Butter

Recently I took a trip to Lubbock, Texas to learn about peanuts. I wasn’t sure what all I was going to see, especially in West Texas, but with just 48 hours in Red Raiders country and I had a great time getting hands-on with farming, manufacturing, distributing and appreciating peanuts. I shared a lot of the highlights on the trip on social, but I can’t wait to share how much work goes into that jar of PB in your cabinet. 


It takes almost 850 peanuts to make an 18oz jar of peanut butter!

Of course when I returned home after my peanut paloooza, I was craving peanuts more than ever. And with several jars of peanut butter in hand a need to get more protein in my family’s body in the morning, this granola came to be. 

Peanut-Butter (13

With just seven ingredients, you probably have these items in your pantry so it’s super cost-effective! You can eat on it all week and for every meal (I love it with yogurt and berries and my husband eats it on top of his ice cream!) Another thing I love about this granola is that it’s full of healthy ingredients and still tastes so indulgent, especially when you top it with the roasted peanuts.

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Cinnamon Peanut Butter Granola


  • Author: Autumn Reo of mamachallenge.com
Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Description

A peanut lover’s dream with peanut butter and roasted peanuts.


Scale

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (I love Homeplate Peanut Butter!)
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup roasted peanuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.
  2. Combine everything together into a bowl.
  3. Spread mixture onto a baking dish with a rim.
  4. Bake, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, approximately 20-25 minutes.
  5. Allow to cool before serving with yogurt, milk or as a snack.

Did you make this recipe?

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Meet this Mama: Autumn Rose Reo

Autumn Rose ReoGet REAL Solutions for REAL Parents that Work! From recipes, things to do, parenting tips (and fails) and how to cope with everything in between, she'll share all the best ways to take on your (mama) challenges... https://www.mamachallenge.com/about/

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Pictures Say a 1000 Words

Fancy Schmancy. This month’s @torchystacos Taco Fancy Schmancy.

This month’s @torchystacos Taco of the Month is this beut: she’s full of eggs, smoked salmon, pickled onions, capers, chopped dill, and the herb cream cheese. And yes she’s fancy but oh so good and worth the splurge.

Paired with a side of queso and change out the chips for chicharrones with that white queso (and maybe a Paloma), and you’re golden. 

#torchytacos #salmon #tacos #paloma #fancy #torchys #dryjanuary #dill #salmon #dfweats #dallaseats
Who doesn’t like chocolate? But what if it’s Who doesn’t like chocolate?

But what if it’s truffles made with avocados past their prime? 🤢? Don’t knock it until you try it #recipeontheblog

Today on @wfaagmt I shared how to make the most of those leftovers and old vegetables and fruits! The kitchen smells so good with an apple tarte tartin, truffles, potato chips, broth, banana bread, and this cilantro green sauce! ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Taken from @beardfoundation:

INGREDIENTS

1⁄4 cup red wine vinegar or freshly squeezed lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1⁄2 cup fresh cilantro stems (from 1 bunch of cilantro)
1⁄2 cup olive oil or neutral oil, such as organic canola or grapeseed
1⁄2 tsp ground cumin

DIRECTIONS

In a blender or the mixing cup of a small food processor or immersion blender, combine the vinegar and a pinch of salt and pepper. Swirl a few times to dissolve the salt. Add the stems, olive oil, and cumin — puree. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

#wfaa #tv #recipe #goodmorningtexas #chocolatetruffles #dfwinfluencer #dallasblogger #eatwell #dfw #momblogger #healthylifestyle #wholefoodmethod
Kept and Queso may sound a lot alike, but I don’ Kept and Queso may sound a lot alike, but I don’t think that’s the way it work...🌯

Today was a busy one: getting ready for the week and getting prepped for a tv segment (tomorrow on @wfaagmt, so I had to call in for reinforcements. While I may be on the no-carb wagon, the rest of the fam wanted something different -  fresh, full of flavor and delivered fast...enter @savageburritos!

Made from the @unclejuliosmexican family, this ghost kitchen delivery service offers specialty burritos, bowls, salads, the holy trinity (queso, chips and salsa) and even dessert - all to your door! 

Find ‘em online and find out why you’ll go savage for more! And thanks @savageburritos for such great service! 

#savageburritos #savageburrito #unclejulios #texmex #dfweats #mamachallenge #dallasfood #dallasmoms #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger
Nothing like trying to eat healthier and your kid Nothing like trying to eat healthier and your kid surprises you with an over-the-top hot cocoa in bed.

...But at least she put it in my @shopcarrieelle mugs.

I’m wondering if this was my first teat of 2021.
Hoping to make 2021 a lot brighter. ✨ Happy New Hoping to make 2021 a lot brighter. ✨

Happy New Year’s Y’all!

#ArlingtonTexas #ArlingtonTx #dfw #nye #lonestarnye
Consider 2021 the light at the end of the tunnel. Consider 2021 the light at the end of the tunnel.

We’ve been working to squeeze in all the celebrations this week before it’s time to work out all the tears, wine and carbs 2020 brought. 🍷 🥖 😭 

What’s your NYE plan? And most of all what’s your last cheat meal? 

#dfw #nye #newyears #covidchristmas2020 #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger
The 80s are coming back in full force...but does m The 80s are coming back in full force...but does my visor match my mask? 😱

Actually my #OOTD is part of our equipment to take down aliens in London circa 1984 at @electricgamebox, the new immersive gaming experience @grandscapetx. Opening December 24, it’s the perfect way to spend some family time TOGETHER, hear a bada$@ soundtrack (hello, 80s!?!) and burn calories (don’t worry about those extra cookies!)

Before you go: 

🕹Have a team name ready

🕹Wear tennis shoes, no hats or hair bands, and comfortable clothes. 

🕹There’s a locker to put your bag in if you need to drop it off!

🕹Safety is #1: Masks are a must, no contact and you’re the only ones in your game room! 

🕹The experience is an hour so be ready to move bc you will! 

Swipe to see our score and family photo (emailed to you after your experience!)

Thanks for some pre-Christmas fun Electric Gamebox! (Partner)

#dallas #dfw #dfwinfluencer #dallasblogger #dallasmoms #dallastexas #electricgamebox #covidchristmas #2020 #openingsoon
❄️ I’m dreaming of a White Christmas... We ❄️ I’m dreaming of a White Christmas...

We normally head to the mountains at Christmas time, but this year we’re just happy to celebrate Christmas healthy and together with lots of wonderful trips around home including to the @gaylordtexan. So we broke from our matching plaid instead with this mom/daughter snowflake set from @shinestythreads. Most their stuff is exactly what you need to dominate the Christmas sweater game, our little bit of cheesy (cue “Let it Go...”) but came out too sweet not to share. (When they’re this age, you take it when you get it!)

Shinesty is the resource for all the holidays apparel and even does free returns! Save their page for when you need to be the talk of the party (online and in person.) 

🎄And for details about the @gaylordtexan Lonestar Christmas like this week’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Brunch, head to the blog (and remember the code REO gets you a discount on some of your activities!)

#shinesty #snow #dfw AD #gaylordchristmas #gaylordtexan #visitgrapevine #dallastexas #dfwinfluencer #dallasbloggers #matchingoutfits #snowdfw #somuchchristmas
One other thing came out of #2020 besides drive-th One other thing came out of #2020 besides drive-thru margaritas...I had time to enjoy wrapping my gifts! 

While we had a minor Santa disaster yesterday, I devised a mom save and moved on to the wrapping paper! I even made my Christmas tags with my @Cricut to match my white & silver snow theme! 

Do you theme your wrapping? What was this year?

You finally can get yours or stock up on accessories now at 50% off now with this link or download the LIKEtoKNOW.it shopping app to shop this pic via screenshot. http://liketk.it/34fvi #liketkit @liketoknow.it 
 #StayHomeWithLTK #LTKhome @liketoknow.it.family @liketoknow.it.home
...Hold your horses! 🐴✨🎄 I love celebrati ...Hold your horses! 🐴✨🎄

I love celebrating our holiday traditions, but this year we made a new one! I’ve always wanted to see Christmas lights by carriage ride and this year we made it happen by surprising the girls! 

We spent the night looking at beautiful houses, drinking hot chocolate under the blankets and hearing some of the best commentary from the girls!

🐴 There are several different carriage ride companies (we used Whitehaven Carriages) that drive through Deerfield and Highland Park with multiple types of carriages (there’s even a Cinderella) for varying prices starting around $175+. 

🐴While rides reserve quickly, you might be able to find some after the holidays! If not, put this in the calendar for next year because it’s a must do!

(I’ve shared some of it on Instastories!)

#dfw #highlandpark #dallasbloggers  #christmasdecor #horses #chriatmaslights #dallas #dfwevents #dallasinfluencer #dfwinfluencer #christmastradition
Just ONE more day! The countdown to Christmas may Just ONE more day!

The countdown to Christmas may be a week away, but @thecroods New Age is available by demand tomorrow! 

The kids have been so excited about this debut and have decorated for the occasion with their goodies from @dreamworks! 🎁 (Partner)

#CROODSNEWAGE #dreamworks #thecroods #giftideas #dfwinfluencers #dallassocialinfluencers #movie #fandango #momlife #sloth
🎶I’m dreaming of a white Christmas...🎶 . 🎶I’m dreaming of a white Christmas...🎶 

...to drink that is, The Dude style. Picking up last minute gifts, I took a brief break at @lockwooddistillingco. They have a great holiday cocktail list and if you’re lucky, you’ll find some awesome gift baskets under their Biggie & Snoop Christmas tree will make everyone happy for Christmas (twofer!)

Whatever you do, don’t leave without a bottle of the Bourbon Creme or Cinnamon Rum to make it through the holidays (who needs eggnog when you can drink this?)

#lockwooddistillingco #biglebowski #dfw #richardsontx #dallastx #holidaydrinks #dallasinfluencer #dfwblogger #whitechristmas #giftidea #biggie #snoop
#MomTruth: What are you buying and wrapping yourse #MomTruth: What are you buying and wrapping yourself to put under the tree and saying it’s from the kids? 🌲 

For me it was this crossbody from @bestofsevenshop. I love a beautiful big handbag (hello @louisvuitton!), but lately I’ve kept it to the essentials as we enjoyed all the holiday events safely, but I still wanted it to be cute! 

Best of Seven style is classic: full of pockets and zippers as well different styles that let you interchange colors to make it your own! “Keeping it your own” is their mission by celebrating diversity:
🌈 races
🌈religion
🌈genders
🌈sexual orientation
🌈Abilities and disabilities
🌈Ages

And you know I love a monogram! 

Today’s the last day to get 30% off and still get it personalized! Get the link in my profile!

#bestofseven #diversity #giftideas #dallasblogger #style #holidays #grinch #rainbow #dfwinfluencers #dallasmoms #covidchristmas
SO.MUCH.CHRISTMAS. 🎄🎁🎅🏼 It’s incred SO.MUCH.CHRISTMAS. 🎄🎁🎅🏼

It’s incredible how much you can do in 24 hours and how many photos you can take - 422 to be exact.

Have you been so busy you haven’t had time to do the Christmas stuff? Get in all the holiday fun with our guide to SO MUCH Christmas at the Gaylord Texan @gaylordtexan.

We even share how to save some money (use the code REO!)

Link to the guide is in the profile and #ontheblog.

#gaylordtexan #ChristmasatGaylordTexan #ilovechristmasmoviesWB #SoMuchChristmas #gaylordchristmas #dfw #visitgrapevine #christmas #dfwinfluencers #dallasinfluencer #travelblogger #traveltex #grapevinetx
Are you making a different kind of O Face because Are you making a different kind of O Face because your not sure if that box is gonna make it? O-NO! 😱

Deadlines start today fast and being in those long lines might be the worst part of Christmas. However, I shared some tips  on @wfaagmt on how you can avoid feeling like a Grinch when it comes to shipping. 🙌🏻

Here are some tips you might not know before you get in line: 

🎁 The big three all have pick up at your house, by going online and scheduling for pick up @ups, @usps.official and @fedex.

Did you know that several stores actually have shipping inside? 
🎁Some Ace Hardware stores @acehardware and local Eliott’s Hardware
🎁 @Staples - they have all the supplies for you to box it up (and I have a coupon in my Instastories!)
🎁 CVS ships UPS
🎁 Heading to those third party parcel stores can definitely save you some time.

Ship to Store is a huge way to get the item delivered quicker to you or to have sent. 
🎁 Get your @amazon sent to an Amazon Locker  or @wholefoods for shipping and pick up! 
🎁 @target - drive through pick up with the App 
🎁 @Walmart - just launched a new service called Walmart+ which is like Amazon Prime where you can get it. (Try it free now!) 

Last-minute shipping?
🎁 While you might not want to pay for those last-minute shipping services, if you use @rakuten you can save money on your purchase so then it still can be affordable for your budget. (I have already racked up a $600 cash back check just for using Rakuten - head to my profile to get a link to get $20 back when you use it! (It’s FREE!) 

@wfaagmt @wfaa #dfw #shipping #holiday #savemoney #dfwinfluencers #dallasinfluencers #dallas #giftideas #mamachallenge #giftguide #covidchristmas
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