GREAT MEMORIAL DAY DESSERTS

I had already posted these two great dessert recipes on early blogs, but had to post them again they are so good.  Smore Brownies and Cherry Cheesecake Bars, two very simple and great tasting desserts for the upcoming Memorial Day week-end.  Whether you are having a party, are invited to a party, or if you just want to make them for your fam, these are two desserts that should be made!

SMORE BROWNIES

•1 package brownie mix (make according to directions: eggs,
  vegetable oil, water, etc...)
•6 graham crackers broken into pieces
•1 package milk chocolate morsels
•2 cups mini marshmallows

1. Make the brownie mix according to the package directions adding the correct amount of eggs, oil and water it calls for. Mix brownie mix until well blended.
2. Spray a 9x12 baking dish with cooking spray.
3. Pour the brownie mix evenly into the baking dish.
4. Place brownie mix into a pre-heated (350 degrees) oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes until lightly set.
5. Take brownies out of oven. Sprinkle the graham crackers over the mix. Then sprinkle the chocolate chips over the graham crackers. Last sprinkle the marshmallows over the top.
6. Place brownies back into over and bake for another 15 minutes or so until the marshmallows or a nice golden color - they will have the look of a smore.
7. Take browies out of oven. Let them cook completely in pan for about an hour or so.
8. Cut brownies into small squares. Place on platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

CHERRY CHEESECAKE BARS  

• 2 cups flour
•1 1/2 cups uncooked quick-cooking oats
•3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
•1/2 cup butter, softened
•1 (8 oz.) packaged cream cheese, softened
•1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
•1/4 tsp. almond or vanilla extract
•1 (21 oz.) cherry fruit filling

1. Line a 13 x 9 inch pan with aluminum foil. Lightly grease foil.
2. Combine first four ingredients in a large bowl, stir until crumbly * I use my hands to make a crumbly crust.
3. Reserve 1 cup crumb mixture. Press remaining mixture unto the bottom of prepared pan.
4. Bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes.
5. Beat cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer 1 minute or until fluffy.
6. Gradually add condensed milk and almond or vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
7. Spread over crust, and top with cherry fruit filling.
8. Sprinkle with reserved 1 cup crumb mixture.
9. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden.
10. Cool on a wire rack. Lift cheesecake out of pan using foil. Cool completely.
11. Place in fridge for a few hours. Cut into bars and serve or continue to chill.
12. Dust bars with powdered sugar.

 *Makes about 15-20 bars depending on how big you make them. I make them into 3x2 rectangles so they are on the smaller side. This way your guests can have a little of another dessert as well.