Helpful Hints, Tips and Secret Ingredients!!!!!!    Ssshhhhhhh

I haven't tried all of these, I confess, but my sources are very knowledgeable!!!!

For more flavorful pancakes, add 1 tsp vanilla extract per mixture for a dozen.

If a baking recipe calls for vanilla, use the listed amount, then add a dash of lemon or almond extract

Dull chocolate cake?  Add banana slices on top of the frosting on the BOTTOM layer only

Trying to get your kids to eat a bowl of oatmeal? 
Add instant hot chocolate mix.

Secret to scones........mix all moist ingredients seperately, and add them all together to the dry mixture....and don't over knead if kneading is called for.

For a caramel flavor to your apple pies, drizzle maple syrup over apple mixture before adding top crust.

Add a tsp. of molasses to your pumpkin pie mix, add color and flavor.

Add cinnamon to whipped cream before topping off a pie slice.

Want moister peant butter cookies?  Add 1/2 cup of sour cream to any recipe.

Brown the butter before adding it to a pecan pie recipe.

Tired banana bread?  Replace a small amount of the banana called for with peeled, shredded kiwi.

Shredded zucchini in brownies?  I've heard they're tasty.  Try a tablspoon full.

Add a tsp. of maple flavoring to carrot cake, or zucchini bread.

Add a tablespoon of sesame seeds to roll recipes.


Oil the knife lightly with vegetable oil before slicing a meringue topped pie.