The Perfect Vanilla Cupcake

Ah, vanilla. Some people think it’s boring. I think it’s a classic. You really can’t go wrong—I don’t think I’ve ever met someone who didn’t like the flavor vanilla. Every time I make these cupcakes, they’re a hit. In fact, I just made a batch for my housemate’s birthday, and I am eating one as a I write this article. With the cream cheese frosting recipe listed below, they are delectable. Yum!

The Perfect Vanilla Cupcake Ingredients

1 1/4 cups flour

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

1 cup sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 cup oil

1/3 cup milk

1/3 cup sour cream

Find the full recipe here.

The Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting

This might be an unpopular opinion, since buttercream frosting is the universal favorite in the baking world, but I always opt for a cream cheese frosting. I just think buttercream is too sweet, and the addition of the cream cheese adds creaminess, depth, and flavor. This recipe isn’t too heavy on the cream cheese, so it’s quite neutral, unlike your typical cream cheese frosting that is traditionally only paired with carrot and red velvet cake. I would highly suggest switching over to this frosting forever.

The Perfect Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup butter

8 oz. cream cheese

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 cups powdered sugar

1 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Find the full recipe here.

Summery Raspberry Vanilla Cupcakes

These are my all-time favorite cupcakes. I can’t even remember how many times I have made them. With the above vanilla recipes as a base, the raspberry flavor is light but delicious. Since raspberry season is late August, they’re perfect for summer. Also, they’re pink, and so cute! I used to make these in huge batches to bring to my choir. I was known in high school as being the cupcake baker, and let me tell you, it really makes people like you! These are certain to be a crowd-pleaser.

Summery Raspberry Vanilla Cupcakes Ingredients

For the cake:

1 1/2 cups flour

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 eggs

1 cup sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 cup oil

1/3 cup milk

1/3 cup sour cream

(not included in the original recipe, but I like to add some raspberry flavoring for an extra berry punch)

For the frosting:

3/4 cup butter

8 oz. cream cheese

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

3 tables fresh raspberry puree

(not included in the original recipe, but I like to add some raspberry flavoring for an extra berry punch)

Find the full recipe here.

Autumnal Pumpkin Cupcakes with Maple Frosting

Like it or not, summer is going by fast. Really fast. We’re already making plans for returning to school, and with school comes fall. I’m not mad about it though—fall is my absolute favorite season. The leaves, the candles, the chill in the air, and yes, all the pumpkin flavored goodies. These are the most perfect fall treat, with a spice-filled cake and a maple twist on my favorite cream cheese frosting. I used to make these for my cross country team in high school. It would take me hours because there were over 60 girls on my team—but it was soooo worth it. There are pecans in the original recipe, but I usually omit them for personal preference.

Autumnal Pumpkin Cupcakes with Maple Frosting Ingredients

For the cake:

1 cup flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Find the full recipe here.

For the frosting:

1/2 cup butter

8 oz. cream cheese

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

4 cups powdered sugar

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 tablespoon heavy cream

Find the full recipe here.

If you enjoy baking, sweet treats, creativity, or all of the above, I highly suggest getting in the kitchen and making one of these delicious cupcake recipes. You can also experiment and mix and match, and the vanilla recipes are great bases to add flavorings of your choice. Happy baking!

The post Story of a Cupcake: 3 Great Cupcake Recipes appeared first on GirlSpring.

Check out more delicious and healthy recipes these recipe sites: Ambitious Kitchen & Allrecipes

And don’t forget to see our Girl Spring comfort food recipes!

The post 5 Things to Bake for When You’re Bored appeared first on GirlSpring.

Mastering the art of icing is essential to creating a cake that tastes heavenly and looks picture-perfect. Once your cake is out of your enameled cast iron cookware and cooling, you’ll have many options for icing and decorating. Learn all about them in this guide. 

Types of Icing

There are a few popular options for icing a birthday cake. Buttercream is a classic favorite due to its creamy texture and versatility. Fondant is known for its smooth finish and is ideal for elaborate designs. Cream cheese is generally less stable than the first two but offers a tangy twist to your cake. 

Each type has unique characteristics, so it’s important to select the one that best suits your flavor preferences and cake design. When choosing the icing, consider the flavor profile of your cake and the design you have in mind. Taste matters as much as appearance, so make sure the icing complements the cake flavor rather than overpowering it.

Preparing Your Cake for Icing

Before you even begin icing, you must ensure your cake is prepped and ready for the magic. Here’s how you can get your cake in tip-top shape for the artistic touch of icing:

Cooling the Cake

Allow your freshly baked cake to cool completely before attempting to ice it. Warm cakes can cause the icing to melt or slide off, resulting in a messy disaster. Give your cake ample time to cool down to room temperature to ensure a smooth icing process.

Leveling and Trimming

To create a stable foundation for your icing, consider leveling the top of your cake to remove any domed or uneven surfaces. A quick trim here and there can make all the difference in achieving a well-balanced and professional-looking cake.

Crumb Coating

Before you start the final icing layer, apply a thin crumb coating of icing to seal in any loose crumbs and create a smooth base for the final layer. This step ensures a clean and polished finish when you add the main icing layer later on.

Apply a Thin Base Layer

Start by applying a thin layer of icing as your base coat. This layer doesn’t need to be perfect; it’s meant to lock in the crumbs and create a smooth surface for the final layer. Use a palette knife to spread the icing evenly across the cake, ensuring a consistent thickness.

Achieving Smooth Surfaces

To achieve that flawless, professional look, use a bench scraper or offset spatula to smooth out the icing. Work your way around the cake, gently removing any excess icing and creating clean, straight edges. Keep a steady hand and take your time — patience is key to achieving a smooth finish.

Decorating Techniques

Once you have your base layer down, it’s time to get creative with decorating techniques. Let your imagination run wild and pipe intricate designs with a frosting bag or work with fondant for sculptural elements. Experiment with different patterns, shapes, and colors to elevate your cake to a work of art.

Troubleshooting Common Icing Mistakes

Even seasoned bakers encounter mishaps when it comes to icing cakes. Here are some common issues you might face and how to troubleshoot them like a pro:

Cracks and Air Bubbles

If you notice cracks or air bubbles in your icing, it may be due to air trapped within it. To prevent this, gently tap the cake on the counter after icing to release air pockets. For cracks, use a small offset spatula to smooth them out before the icing sets.

Runny Icing

Runny icing can be a nightmare to work with, but there are simple steps you can take to keep it from affecting your cake. If your icing is too thin, try adding a bit more powdered sugar or chilling it for a few minutes to thicken it up. If all else fails, you can always opt for a quick crumb coat and let it set before adding a thicker layer of icing.

Uneven Surfaces

Uneven surfaces on your cake can make the icing process challenging. To tackle this issue, consider using a cake leveler to ensure an even top before applying the icing. If you still encounter bumps or uneven patches, gently smooth them out with an offset spatula or bench scraper.

Mastering the Art of Properly Icing Birthday Cakes

Mastering the art of properly icing a birthday cake is a delightful step that requires a blend of technique, creativity, and patience. By understanding the basics of icing, preparing your cake meticulously, and perfecting your icing techniques, you can create stunning, delicious, and visually captivating cakes.

The post How Do You Properly Ice a Birthday Cake? appeared first on GirlSpring.

1. Turkey Oreo Balls– These chocolate Oreo Turkeys are the perfect quick and easy sweet treat. This recipe is made with the beloved Oreo cookies. These treats are sure to be a crowd pleaser for the kids, but also for the adults! This is not only a treat- it’s almost like a sweet craft where you have to perfectly assemble a chocolate cookie dessert into a Turkey.       
2. Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Bark–  If you are looking for something still chocolatey and delicious, but less time consuming, this dessert will be just right for you. This chocolate bark has various sweet and savory toppings. Toppings are customizable based on your favorite treats and sweets. It’s the perfect table snack that everyone can munch on and enjoy throughout the day. 
3. Chocolate Strawberry Turkey Treat– This is the perfect treat that you could do to occupy not only yourself, but also any younger siblings or little hands that want to help out. This treat consists of a strawberry dipped in chocolate that will turn out to be the shape of a turkey. This recipe is slightly healthier for you and it’s also quick and easy with few ingredients!
4. S’mores Pie–  This s’mores pie is the perfect show stopping dessert. Many are familiar with apple pies and even butterscotch pies. But a s’more’s pie is not only delicious, but it will be unlike anything else on the Thanksgiving dessert table. This is a step up and requires some past experience. But if you are willing to take your baking game to the next level, this is a perfect dessert for you!
5. Pumpkin Pie Sugar Cookies– Last but not least, these sugar cookies are in the shape of a pumpkin pie. Although not a showstopper, these sugar cookies are classic and timeless. They are bound to please the youngest of the family members to the oldest. It would also make a great family activity to decorate them together. 

The post Thanksgiving Treats appeared first on GirlSpring.

Peruvian Ceviche: A seafood dish accompanied by Sweet Potato, Corn, and Lettuce trimmings

Serves 4

Ceviche ingredients:

1 lbs White Fish Filets (preferably Tilapia)  

1 ½ Tablespoon of Salt

½ Teaspoon of Pepper

½ Teaspoon Ajinomoto (optional)

¾ lb. Limes (about 3-4)

1 Teaspoon Ginger (peeled and chopped finely)

1 Garlic Clove (peeled and chopped finely)

1 Tablespoon of Cilantro (chopped extremely finely-make sure to only use and cut leaves)

2 tablespoons of Celery (chopped finely)

1 Orange

¼ Teaspoon Cumin

1 Red Onion

2 Sweet Potatoes (optional)

1 Ear of Peruvian Corn (or any sweet corn)

4 leaves of Lettuce

Instructions:

1. Squeeze juice out of all limes into a medium sized bowl. Strain juice twice and set aside. 
2. Wash fish fillets and cut into small cubes- length of each cube should be about half the length of your finger. 
3. Place all fish cubes in bowl of lime juice and make sure fish is completely covered by juice. 
4. Stir in ginger, celery, pepper, and ajinomoto. 
5. Cover bowl and let sit for approx. 45 minutes

As the fish “cooks”:

1. Peel and cut red onion into thin, long slices. Rinse and then submerge into a bowl of water. Let sit.
2. Squeeze orange juice into a small bowl.

*If adding sweet potato, place a pot on the stove and boil water. Peel sweet potatoes and boil for approx. 10-12 minutes. Cut sweet potato into round slices right before plating.

Once 45 minutes have passed:

1. Mix in salt and add more for taste (if needed).
2. Pour and stir in orange juice.
3. Strain red onion and mix into a bowl along with cilantro. 

Immediately before plating, stir Ceviche slowly, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Plate sweet potato and lettuce (make sure to rinse beforehand), and follow with placing Ceviche directly on top of lettuce leaf. Serve with corn and enjoy!

The post A painting of a plate: Peruvian Ceviche appeared first on GirlSpring.

#1 –  Crispy, Spicy, Garlic Potatoes 

If you love fries like me, but aren’t satisfied with your cafeteria’s frozen ones, I have your back. These oven-baked potatoes are perfect for you if you love spice. 

Ingredients: 

• 3 Potatoes 
• 10 tsp oil 
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• ½ tsp salt 
• ½ tsp pepper 
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley 
• ½ tsp paprika powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder

Directions: 

1. Preheat oven to 356℉
2. Rinse potatoes.
3. Peel skin.
4. Cut the top, bottom, & side of a potato to make a cuboid.
5. Cut slices of about 1 centimeter thick. 
6. Optional: Lay 1 slice down & mark horizontal lines with your knife. Flip & cut diagonal lines. Do not cut all the way down, just ¾ deep. This makes slits in the potato for the seasoning to seep in. 
7. Boil for 4 minutes on high. 
8. Strain the water & lay out each potato on a sheet of tinfoil placed onto a baking pan. 
9. Seasoning: Whisk oil, melted butter, salt, pepper, chopped parsley, paprika, cayenne pepper, & garlic powder. 
10. Dip a pastry brush into seasoning mixture & coat each potato slice evenly. 
11. Bake in the oven at 356° for 40 minutes or until appear golden brown. 
12. When the 20-minute mark hits, carefully open the oven & sprinkle parmesan (or your favorite cheese) &  bake until done. 
13. Let potatoes cool for 10 minutes. 

Tips: 

• Be careful not to oversaturate the potatoes with the seasoning. 
• Avoid cutting the potatoes thin, I did that once & they were drenched in seasoning. 

Source: https://www.tiktok.com/@yashodhas_eats/video/6939147432374619398?lang=en&is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1

#2 Teriyaki Ramen

Are you looking for flavorful and saucy ramen for lunch? Here it is! If you’re on TikTok a lot, you’ve probably come across this deliciousness. 

Ingredients: 

• 1 Instant Ramen bag (my favorite: https://www.target.com/p/sapporo-ichiban-shio-ramen-noodle-soup-18oz-5ct/-/A-52396719#lnk=sametab)
• 1 tsp butter 
• 3 tsp soy sauce (add more if desired) 
• 1 tsp brown sugar 
• 1 egg
• Favorite Toppings: Red chili pepper flakes, Everything but the Bagel seasoning 

Directions: 

1. Boil ramen noodles, drain, & put aside. 
2. Prepare the sauce. In a pan on low-medium heat, add butter.
3. Once the butter is half melted, add garlic & soy sauce & stir. 
4. Next, add brown sugar. 
5. Once everything is well combined, add the ramen noodles. 
6. If you’d like, add 1 egg. 
7. Turn off heat & sprinkle anything you would like on top! 

Credit: https://iamafoodblog.com/tiktok-ramen/ 

#3: Honey Butter Corn: 

This is a super easy way to make your corn more exciting. You can eat this cold, perfect for school lunch. So, if you like honey and love corn, stick around! 

Ingredients:  

• 2 tbsp butter 
• 2 tbsp honey 
• 1 bag frozen corn (16oz)
• 6 tbsp cream cheese 
• ¼ tsp salt & pepper 

Directions: 

1. Sautee 1 bag of frozen corn & put aside. 
2. Warm up your skillet on low to medium heat.
3. Add the butter. Once melted, add the honey. 
4. Give it a stir & then add the corn.
5. Cook for 5-8 minutes. Stir here & there. 
6. Add in the cream cheese in chunks & salt & pepper. Combine. 
7. Cook until done ( (3-5 min.) Remember to stir.

Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/808044358146407536/

#4: No-Bake Energy Balls 

These energy balls are the easiest recipe ever and taste incredible. Not only are they a perfect snack throughout school, but they’re amazing for grabbing something before you head out the door. Plus, it includes chocolate. Who doesn’t love that? 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oats 
• ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
• ½ cup shredded coconut
• ½ cup almond butter/peanut butter 
• ½ cup ground flaxseed 
• ½ cup chocolate chips 
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: any seeds of your choice, I like chopped almonds & chia seeds 

Directions: 

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. 
2. Scoop with a tablespoon or ice cream scoop & roll into balls. 
3. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes & done! 

Tips: 

• If the mix is too dry, add more honey/maple syrup. 
• If the mix is not holding together, put it in the fridge for 25 minutes to harden.

Credit: https://downshiftology.com/recipes/no-bake-energy-balls/

#5: The Best Chicken Salad 

I love this recipe because you can pair it with anything: stuffed peppers, in a sandwich, dipped in crackers or chips, the list goes on. Bonus: you can store this in the fridge for up to 5 days!

Ingredients: 

• ½ large chicken breast 
• ¼ cup chopped celery 
• ¼ cup red grapes cut in fourths 
• 1 tbsp mixed nuts (chopped if desired)
• 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
• ¼ c mayonnaise 
• ¼ tsp garlic salt 

Directions: 

1. Prepare your chicken by either boiling, or buying precooked at a grocery store, however you want to cook it. Then, chop or shred it. 
2. Chop celery & grapes to both individually = ¼ cup. 
3. Chop lettuce to =  a cup. 
4. Chop nuts to = 1 tablespoon. 
5. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, garlic salt, mayonnaise, & mustard. 
6. Then, add the rest of the ingredients & enjoy. 

Credit: https://www.nourishnutritionblog.com/easiest-chicken-salad/

That’s a wrap! I hope you give some of these a try this school year. Let me know in the comments which recipe was your favorite! Good luck!

Check out more recipes from GirlSpring contributors!

The post 5 Easy and Yummy Back to School Lunch Ideas appeared first on GirlSpring.

1. Go for a walk

Whether it is around your neighborhood or on a designated trail, walks are an excellent way to pass the time! It has the benefit of exercising and being outside, while also being relatively easy and fun. In my opinion, the best walking times are in the early morning and mid-afternoon, when it’s not the hottest part of the day. In addition, I prefer to take walks with my friends and family because having somebody to talk to makes the experience all the more enjoyable! Listening to music is another way to make walking more fun! Next time you’re bored, go outside and take a nice walk. It’s a great mood booster! 

2. Take a visit to your local library

While I recognize that not everyone enjoys reading, libraries often have other community events available for kids and teens. I highly encourage you to see what your library has to offer! Besides, if you have nothing else to do, why not start on your summer reading? Or, if you are a reader, browse the library’s collection and find an interesting book to read. Enjoy yourself!

3. Have a picnic with friends

Have each of your friends pack their favorite foods and meet in a grassy area to share your treats! A picnic allows a plan to hang out with friends and provides an activity different from your usual hangouts.

4. Watch the sunset

If there are any lookout spots near you, watching the sunset with your friends or family is a fun and free way to get out of the house! It can be very picturesque and provide you with a stunning view. If you are not in a place to see the sunset, try watching the sunrise! It will be just as spectacular. You could even bring a picnic and enjoy food while watching the sun set.

5. Visit a farmer’s market

If you can find a farmer’s market near you, these are great places to walk around. You can browse, sample, and maybe even purchase freshly grown foods from local vendors; I happen to find these very enjoyable. They usually have a very calming atmosphere and may even inspire creativity!

6.Watch a movie

Whether it’s going to a movie theatre or watching from home, movies are arguably the easiest way to cure boredom. You can even make an event out of it and invite your friends to a movie night! If you’re at home, maybe serve microwave popcorn to each guest. If you need suggestions for movies, I watched all of the Marvel movies in chronological order. It gave me something to look forward to and was a simple way to occupy my time in the summer.

Remember to try these activities out next time you are bored, and have a great summer!

Click here to see more activities you can do with friends, family, or even just for yourself!

The post Activities to Cure Summer Boredom appeared first on GirlSpring.

Imagine the aroma of tender, spiced beef mingling with a rich, savory sauce, all wrapped in a soft tortilla and topped with melted cheese. Making beef enchiladas at home allows you the freedom to tweak the flavors to your liking, ensuring every bite is just right. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to the world of Mexican cuisine, the process of making enchiladas is rewarding and full of opportunities to learn and experiment.

In this guide, we’ll walk through ten essential steps to help you create beef enchiladas that are sure to impress. From selecting the right ingredients to the final garnish, you’ll discover the joy of bringing this beloved dish to life in your own kitchen. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the delicious world of homemade beef enchiladas!

1. Mastering the Art of Homemade Beef Enchiladas

Homemade beef enchiladas are a beloved dish known for their rich flavors and comforting warmth. They offer a perfect blend of tender beef, savory sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Making enchiladas at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring quality and authenticity in every bite. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, mastering beef enchiladas can make you the star of the culinary show.

2. Selecting the Right Cut of Beef

The journey to perfect enchiladas begins with choosing the right beef cut. For enchiladas, you want a cut that’s flavorful and becomes tender when cooked slowly. Chuck roast or brisket are excellent choices, as they break down beautifully during cooking, making them easy to shred and full of taste. Opt for well-marbled pieces; the fat will render down, adding juiciness and richness to the meat and enhancing the overall flavor of your enchiladas.

3. Preparing the Beef

Once you’ve selected your cut, it’s time to prepare the beef. Season the meat generously with a blend of spices—think cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt—to infuse it with traditional Mexican flavors. Slow cooking is key; you can use a slow cooker, an oven, or a stovetop to tenderize the beef until it’s easily shreddable. This process melds the spices into the meat, creating a deeply flavorful base for your enchiladas.

4. Making the Enchilada Sauce

A standout enchilada sauce can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable. Making the sauce from scratch allows you to layer flavors, adjusting the heat and seasoning to your preference. Start with a roux, add chili powder, and then mix in tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and additional spices. Letting the sauce simmer melds the flavors together, creating a rich, savory coating for your enchiladas.

5. Choosing the Right Tortillas

The choice of tortillas is crucial in enchilada-making. Corn tortillas are traditional and offer a distinct flavor and texture that complements the beef and sauce. However, they can be prone to tearing. To prevent this, lightly fry the tortillas in oil to make them more pliable and resilient to the sauce’s moisture. If you prefer a softer texture, flour tortillas are a suitable alternative, though they offer a different flavor profile and experience.

6. Assembling the Enchiladas

Assembling your enchiladas is where the magic happens. Lay out your tortillas and distribute the shredded beef evenly down the center of each one. The key is not to overfill them, which can make the tortillas break or the filling spill out during baking. A couple of tablespoons of meat should suffice, depending on the tortilla size. Roll them up tightly and place them seam-side down in a baking dish that you’ve lightly coated with some of your enchilada sauce to prevent sticking.

7. Layering the Sauce and Cheese

Once your enchiladas are snug in the dish, it’s time to smother them in your homemade sauce. Pour the sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they’re completely covered. This prevents the tortillas from drying out and helps meld the flavors together during baking. Next, sprinkle a generous amount of cheese on top. While traditional Mexican cheeses like queso fresco or cotija are great, a good melty cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack works well too. The cheese should not only cover the top but also sneak into the nooks between each enchilada.

8. Baking the Enchiladas

Bake your enchiladas in a preheated oven at around 350°F for about 20-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden and the edges of the tortillas peeking out start to crisp up. Baking melds the flavors together and ensures that every bite is a harmonious blend of beef, tortilla, sauce, and cheese.

9. Garnishing and Serving

Once out of the oven, let your enchiladas cool for a few minutes before garnishing. Fresh cilantro, diced onions, sour cream, or sliced avocados can add freshness, texture, and an extra layer of flavor. Serve them hot, perhaps with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans, to complete this hearty, comforting meal.

10. Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Beef enchiladas are excellent for storing and enjoying later, making them perfect for leftovers

. Cool them to room temperature, cover the dish with foil, or transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The flavors often meld and deepen overnight, making the next-day enchiladas even more delicious.

Conclusion

Mastering homemade beef enchiladas is a rewarding culinary endeavor that brings a taste of Mexico to your dining table. By following these ten essential steps, from selecting the right ingredients to proper assembly and baking, you can create a dish that’s rich in flavors and textures. Remember, the best enchiladas are made with care and attention to detail, allowing each component to shine. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, these beef enchiladas are sure to impress, offering a satisfying, flavorful experience that invites you to explore further the depth and diversity of Mexican cuisine.

The post Essential Steps for Making Delicious Homemade Beef Enchiladas appeared first on GirlSpring.

once my friend so comforting and sweet, now my enemy never missing a chance to torture me

knowing my heart and soul, it always knows where to hit me hardest.

its “calming” touch leaving me writhing against pins and needles

Even when its gone it’ll always find a way to influence my decisions, it’s whispers lapping at my ear

“how long will i entertain it?”, “how long can i go without it?”, “when will I need it again?”

Its presence a pain but its absence just as terrifying

because once it’s gone there’s emerged a new character whose damages even more permanent then the last.

The post A Relationship With Food appeared first on GirlSpring.

Move over Valentine’s Day, there’s a new holiday that is even better – Galentine’s Day! Like how Valentine’s celebrates romantic relationships, Galentine’s celebrates strong friendships between women and girls. It’s a day for the friends who stick by your side as relationships come and go, for you and your gals to have fun without the stress of having a Valentine. And, most importantly, there is lots of PINK!

“Galentine’s Day” originates from a Parks and Recreation episode, where Amy Poehler’s character, Leslie Knope, celebrates her own Galentine’s Day. Technically, the fake holiday falls on February 13th, but Galentine’s is celebrated all around February 14th. So, grab your friends and throw yourselves a Galentine’s party!

Here are some celebration ideas:

• Flower Arranging

Before the party, visit your local flower shop and purchase a variety of good-looking flowers! Then, invite your friends over, get some cute vases, and host a flower-arranging party! This is a perfect way to celebrate friendships while learning a new skill. Not to mention, you get a beautiful party favor to take home!

• Favorite Things

Gather a group of friends and have each person buy a small gift (one of your Favorite Things) for three other people. Then, after a gift swap, each person will go home with three new small gifts! Some gift ideas are favorite makeup products, jewelry, candles, or anything you love and think your friends would enjoy.

• Murder Mystery

Or, you can go the route of hosting a murder mystery party! You may purchase a premade game or design your own! Assign or have people choose their characters ahead of time so that when they attend the party, they can be in costume! This is a unique way to spend time with your friends, creating lasting memories for years to come.

• Arcade/Amusement Center

Go on a field trip to your local arcade or amusement center! When with your friends, these places can be tons of fun! Challenges can bring out your competitive side and also encourage teamwork. It’s a fun and different way to celebrate your Galentines!

• Karaoke

Sing your favorite songs with your favorite people! It does not matter if you can sing or not, everybody can participate in karaoke. So, grab some go-to songs, maybe sing a duet, and pretend you are Taylor Swift for the night with the comfort of your best friends!

• Board Night

Have each of your friends bring a board of different foods. Instead of the traditional charcuterie board, popular boards include a veggie board, a taco board, or a bread board (my personal favorite). The possibilities are endless! You and your friends can bond over tasting everybody’s different dishes and maybe try some new foods while you are at it!

Have fun celebrating!

So, to celebrate your friendships this February, have a Galentine’s party! After all, where would we be without our supportive friends? Let’s all show our appreciation for one another!

Happy Galentine’s!

Want to learn more about Galentine’s Day? Click here!

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