From the 'Burg to Your Kitchen

Parties are all in session! My sister and I had our first party at our house for the Fourth of July and it was absolutely stressful, but a blast! I am always in the mood for picnic recipes and my best friend Judy and I are always looking for recipes for picnics! We are hoping to have a few more parties before summer is over. This inspired my recipes this week – what can I bring to parties that is something new and exciting? Have no fear, this article is here!

Berry Brownie Pizza

Ingredients:

1 package fudge brownie mix (13x9 pan size)

1 package cream cheese, softened

1 Tbsp sugar

1 tsp. vanilla

1/2 tsp grated lemon zest

2 cups Cool Whip

Strawberries and blueberries

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare brownie batter according to package directions for fudge-like brownies. Spread onto a pizza pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, 15-18 minutes. Cool completely.

Beat the first 4 topping ingredients until smooth; fold in Cool Whip. Spread over crust and refrigerate for 2 hours.

To serve, cut into 12 pieces, top with blueberries and strawberries!

Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball

Ingredients:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 tsp. onion powder

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/4 tsp. salt

1/2 cup crumbled bacon – fresh not bacon bits

Directions:

In a food processor, beat together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic and onion powder and salt. Form the mixture into a ball and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

In a small bowl, add the bacon. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll into the bacon until completely covered. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with crackers.