Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Clams Casino

Makes 40 pieces This classic appetizer is always a crowd pleaser, and we love it with a little extra crispy bacon on top. Ingredients 4 oz bacon, diced, plus more for garnish, if you like (see note) 1/2 cup diced onions 1/3 cup minced green bell pepper 1/3 cup minced […]

Beverages and Cocktails

Cortland Jab

Makes 1 cocktail This recipe features some of the season’s favorite flavors, with a special ingredient that may be new to you. Before we even get to the shrub, though, we add just enough apple brandy to make it count, fresh apple cider (often produced with sweet Cortland apples, hence […]

Desserts

Cranberry-Apple Brandy Syrup

Makes 3 (8 oz) jars Ingredients 1 cup light brown sugar 1/2 cup water 1 tablespoon raisins 1 tablespoon cranberries 3 pieces dried apple 3 dried plums (prunes) 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup bourbon, rum, or brandy Directions Heat brown sugar and water in a small […]

Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments, Side Dishes

Cranberry-Bourbon Relish

Makes about 4 cups This cranberry relish can be prepared in advance. Store wrapped in the refrigerator for 2 weeks or in the freezer for 3 months. It is great with turkey, of course, but it’s also a sweet and tangy accompaniment to roasted pork. Ingredients 1 lb fresh or […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Creating Flavored Honey and Maple Syrup

You might be surprised at how many different flavors and qualities of honey there are. And maple syrup, real maple syrup, has a light body and an intense flavor. But, like anything else, there are ways to “gild the lily” for something special. To make a flavored honey or syrup, […]

Main Dishes

Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Makes 12 servings This roast is perfect for holidays and dinner parties, because it’s quick to cook, including a few minutes on the grill. While you can sear your roast in a pan on the stove, using the grill your house free from smoke and grease, so you can finish […]

Family Fun

Decorating Holiday Cookies

Decorating cookies is fun any time of the year, but ‘tis the season for extra special treats to share with your friends and family! Whether you bring them as a gift to your teachers or to grandma’s house, there are so many easy ways to dress up your favorite cookies […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus, Family Fun

Design Your Own Gingerbread House

Nothing says “Christmas!” like an old-fashioned gingerbread house, and this year, we’re going all out! These cookies are the ideal canvas for all sorts of decorative touches. The dough can be made and baked off in advance and stored in an airtight container until ready to decorate or finish. Use […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Don’t Panic, It’s Just a Holiday Party

Reminders from a Reformed Over-Thinker Entertaining season is upon us, and there’s no time left to ruminate about the finer points of throwing a top-notch party. If you’re in the weeds (chef-speak for very overwhelmed!), here are some reminders to help you entertain like a person who has had plenty […]

Desserts, Free Recipes

Eggnog Bundt Cake

Makes one 9-inch loaf cake This recipe makes enough batter for one large bundt cake or one 9-inch loaf pan. If your bundt pan or loaf pans are on the smaller side, fill the pan about 2/3 of the way full. You can transfer any remaining batter to another cake […]