Category Archives: Christmas

by | December 9, 2013 · 9:17 am

White Chocolate Peanut Butter Reindeer Fudge

If you are looking for an easy treat to get crafty with this Christmas, try this simple white chocolate peanut butter fudge recipe and wrap it in Rudolph! I have a small obsession for Rudolph crafts and treats as seen in my posts of Christmas’ past: Rudolph the Reindeer Treat Bags and Reindeer Peanut Butter Cookies. This year, we were asked to bring something to a cookie exchange for a kid’s holiday party and I thought these would be the perfect addition. They take about ten minutes of prep and cooking, 2 hours of cooling and a little extra time for decorating (which can be done with or without a little one).

reindeer fudge

White Chocolate Peanut Butter Fudge
2 C sugar
1/2 2% milk
1 tsp vanilla
3/4 C creamy peanut butter
1/2 C white chocolate chips

Line a 9 inch glass pie pan with non-stick foil or wax paper. Spray with cooking spray. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar and milk. Heat and whisk until dissolved. Bring to a boil and allow to boil for 2-3 minutes, or until mixture becomes thickened. Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter and vanilla until incorporated. Using a rubber spatula, spread mixture into pie pan. Sprinkle white chocolate chips generously over the top, patting down with the spatula. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for two hours.

When chilled, remove foil from pie pan and cut into triangles. One pie pan will make approximately 10-12 triangles, depending on the size.

DSC_0011

To decorate, you will need:
Cellophane bags
Brown pipe cleaners
Self-stick google eyes
Red construction paper
Scissors
Glue

Place triangle fudge into bags. Fit bag tightly over fudge and pull together at the top. Secure with pipe cleaner, twisting to create a seal (you could always place a small rubber band to secure the bag first if you’d like). Fashion pipe cleaners into antlers, bending to your liking. Cut small circle with construction paper. Glue at tip of bag. Stick eyes above. Repeat until complete.

You can also use your favorite brownie or blondie recipe with this wrapping to create the same effect.

Happy Holiday baking!

stef

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by | December 6, 2013 · 7:54 am

{Gift Guide} Emerald & Pine

Anne’s Picks

Give a gift that will be an instant conversation starter.  The book The Art of Manliness tries to revive the lost art of manliness with equal parts solid and humorous advice.  And if your daughter is anything like mine, she could spend the day twirling around in this adorable, tiered tutu.  The best part?  It strays from the traditional girly pink tutus that you normally see.

emeraldpine-anne

1. The Art of Manliness ($15) 2. Rewind candle ($25) 3. Turquoise statement necklace ($110) 4. Plush-a-saur ($24.95)  5. Girls Blended Tutu ($34)

Katie’s Picks

My clothing picks on this one feel exactly like what my husband and I will be wearing as we go into 2014 – an easy-chic, work dress in a rich color for me to kick off all those business meetings and a stylish yet practical merino hoodie to accommodate his outdoor fanaticism.

emeraldpine-katie

1. Quantum Plus merino hoodie ($219.99) 2. Emerald studs ($38) 3. Silk cinema dress ($160) 4. Organic Green Tea ($14) & Infuser tumbler ($19.99) 5. Nail polish in Laughin’ to the Bank ($17)

Stef’s Picks

My little man loves Pete the Cat and I have to say I do not blame him. I’m all about gifting books at Christmas time and you can’t go wrong with this one. If you are looking for something for a tech-saavy, stylish female, try the Taylor iPad Case from 1154 Lill Studio. You can purchase pre-made items or create your own in store or online.

emeraldpine-stef

1. Pete the Cat Saves Christmas ($13) 2. Broken-in Chino Urban Slim Fit ($75) 3. Taylor iPad Case – Pea Pods ($69)  4. Lincoln Logs Classic Edition ($28) 5. Hand Knit Boot Cuffs ($19)

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by | December 5, 2013 · 7:41 am

{Gift Guide} Snow & Ice

Anne’s Picks

My all time favorite candle from Anthropologie comes in the beautiful (and reusable!) jar this time of year.  Pick this up for your hostess and grab one for yourself while you’re at it.  If you have any new little ones that have joined your family this year, think about getting them this adorable owl hat.  It is equal parts adorable and functional.

snowice-anne

1. Capri Blue candle ($25) 2. Owl hat ($16.75) 3. Cable knit knee socks ($16.50) 4. Fleece bear robe ($23.97) 5. Bird cup & saucer ($13.96)

Katie’s Picks

Who says you can’t wear white in winter? This chic, minimalist leather skirt from Topshop (via Nordstrom) feels like a fresh twist on a winter skirt and would elevate your look from work to cocktail hour in that I-didn’t-even-try kind of way.
snowice-katie

1. Sequined table runner ($24.95), 2. Trimmed Mazurka gloves ($32), 3. Leather skirt ($180), 4. Mercury glass flask (from $26), 5. Ceramic sugar jar ($12.95), 6. Silk tie ($150)

Stef’s Picks

It may be cold out, but the little ones can always warm our hearts. Consider giving the grandparent in your life the My Quotable Grandkid Journal. Here they can chronicle the darndest things their grandkids say. This is also available for parents. If you want to give a little extra to your whiskey-getter, try the sphere ice mold set. These slow melting molds won’t dilute your whiskey, plus they look like a snowball in a glass.

snowice-stef

1. My Quotable Grandkid Journal ($13) 2. A Chilly Treat Sweater ($60) 3. Mini Boden ‘Cozy’ Teddy Bear Texture Gilet ($38) 4. Philosophy Giving Grace Fragrance Spray ($44) 5. Sphere Ice Mold Set ($12) 6. Vintage Stamped Serving Spoons ($28)

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by | December 4, 2013 · 7:47 am

{Gift Guide} Neon & Neutral

Anne’s Picks

Consider giving a small clutch that can turn an outfit into something special.  This pop-of-color clutch from the gap is on trend, practical and reasonably price.  And for the kid in your life, give a shoe that makes an outfit!  These neon baby vans are too adorable to pass up.

neonneutral-anne

1. Let’s Do This pillow ($69) 2. Lippy Marker ($10) 3. Orange skinny belt ($49.50) 4. Pink leather clutch ($39.95) 5. Neon baby Vans ($30) 6. Knot & Bot tag set ($10)

Katie’s Picks

Your favorite home cook needs an Emile Henry salt pig in their life. Ok, they probably don’t need it but it will certainly keep all that kosher salt contained (as opposed to spilling on the bottom of their spice cupboard like mine is) and make them feel like the culinarian they are as they grab liberal pinches and toss them into their favorite dish.

neonneutral-katie

1. Summit fleece track jacket ($128), 2. Chevron fingerless gloves ($35), 3. Cable knit sweater ($59), 4. Salt pig ($29.95), 5. Embossed leather wallet ($120), 6. Herringbone throw ($74)

Stef’s Picks

If you are looking for a fun gift that as Uncle Eddie says, “keeps on giving the whole year through” gift your man or woman with a Birchbox subscription. I receive one of these little kraft boxes every month and love testing out all the home and beauty products. A little pampering can go a long way! You can choose how many months you’d like to give, offering a good range of price points.

neonneutral-stef

1. Minnetonka Leopard Kilty Moccasin ($40) 2. Baby 7 A.M. Enfant Duodoune ($90) 3. Flared Trench ($225) 4. Nike Free TR III ($100) 5. Birchbox Subscription ($10/month)

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by | December 3, 2013 · 8:18 am

{Gift Guide} Black & Gold

Anne’s Picks

I love adding a few beautiful cookbooks to my collection around the holidays.  This year I came across the Smitten Kitchen Cookbook and fell in love.  The recipes are divine and the pictures are perfection.  It is a wonderful cookbook to inspire creativity in the kitchen.

blackgold-anne

1. The Smitten Kitchen cookbook ($24) 2. iPhone case ($34.95) 3. Alphabet stacking ring ($30) 4. Metallic slouchy beanie ($34.50) 5. The Polar Express ($12) 6. Salt & pepper shakers ($19)

Katie’s Picks

It’s terribly difficult for me to not select one of these sparkly options, but as someone who is always cold Under Armour’s Infrared tech hoodie is definitely on my list.  UA’s says their infrared technology is designed to absorb and retain your own body heat to keep you warmer without extra bulk – double win. Thinking one of the guys on your list would be into this too?  Don’t worry, there are plenty of men’s infrared options as well.

blackgold-katie

1. Twill gingham shirt ($34.96), 2. Starstruck cocktail ring ($59), 3. Coldgear Infrared EVO hoodie ($64.99), 4. Metal clutch ($68), 5. Catcher sparkle flat ($150), 6. Foil print pillow ($24.99)

Stef’s Picks

For the man, or real woman, in your life, surprise them with a bottle of Great Lakes Distillery Kinnickinnic whiskey. Locally distilled right here in Milwaukee, this bottle will spice up your Christmas day. If you are looking for a splurge, I’m loving all oversized gold sports watches for women this year. You won’t disappoint if you adorn your favorite lady’s wrist with this Karl Lagerfeld piece.

blackgold-stef

1. Great Lakes Distillery Kinnickinnic Whiskey ($40) 2. Men’s Bridgeport Jacket ($100) 3. Karl Lagerfeld Karl 7 Gold Watch ($250) 4. Seamless Shimmer Hoodie ($89)  5. Smashbox Full Exposure Palette ($49)

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by | December 2, 2013 · 12:34 pm

{Gift Guide} Cranberry & Cardinal

Anne’s Picks

This time of year, I long for all things warm and cozy and my picks tend to revolve around that theme.  For the cook in your life, a dutch oven in a beautiful shade of red is a must have for slow cooked meals on a cold day.   And I know that I cannot get through our Wisconsin winters without a new cozy scarf or beautiful throw, both perfect for anyone who can be hard to shop for.  And don’t forget the little ones!  The little girl in your life  will love this adorable and whimsical doll from the land of nod.

red-anne

1. Waffle stitch infinity scarf ($65) 2. Zoku slush and shake maker with book ($34.95) 3. Softest throw ($49) 4. Dutch oven ($99.95) 5. Polka dot potholders ($14) 6. Hello doll ($19.95)

Katie’s Picks

I’m lusting over all of these items so the best I can do is narrow it down to two picks. Guys and gals alike will be pumped to open a pair of comfy, on trend New Balance Classics. This rich Men’s cranberry color is an undercover cool type shade but if you’re looking for something punchier there are plenty of those to choose from. If you’re looking for something a little more traditional, I’d go with this toasty, artisan buffalo plaid blanket from the nearly 150 year old Faribault Woolen Mill (which just happens to be next door to my home town!).

red-katie

1. Bomber jacket ($69.90), 2. The Sriracha Cookbook ($16.99), 3. Palm Springs scarf in Red Ikat ($59), 4. New Balance Classics sneakers ($74.95), 5. La Creme lipstick in Stiletto ($21), 6. Buffalo plaid wool blanket ($100)

Stef’s Picks

You can’t have Christmas without a little glitz. I’m a huge fan of all things Stella & Dot and love the Mae necklace layered with some of your other favorite jewels to spice up a little black dress or a simple tee. If you are looking for something for the rambunctious boy in your life, try a Hot Wheels Remote Control Camaro. For a great price, this little car will ensure excitement under the tree on Christmas morning.

red-stef

New Clean Edge Wool Fedora ($50) Stella & Dot Mae Necklace ($49) Mack Cheers Tumblers ($45) Hot Wheels R/C Camaro ($20) Le Crueset 7 Piece Cherry Tool Set ($75)

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by | November 27, 2013 · 8:13 am

{Coming Soon} Haute Holiday Gift Guides

hapgiftguides

We are busy stuffing our faces with turkey this week, but we promise great things for next week. It is everyone’s favorite time of year…Haute Holiday Gift Guides! We are switching it up color style this year for a unique look at our favorite picks for the holidays. We are ever so thankful for you – our loyal followers – and look forward to sharing another holiday season with you!

theLadies

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by | January 16, 2013 · 10:38 am

Cinnamon Honey Butter

For Christmas this year, I made and delivered Cinnamon Honey Butter to neighbors, family and friends.  The butter was very easy to make and turned out to be delicious.  I have received so many requests for the recipe that I figured I should post it on HAP!

cinnamon honey butter up close

This is supposedly the recipe for the Texas Road House honey butter.  You can find variations all over the internet, but this combination is my favorite.

Cinnamon Honey Butter

1 cup butter, softened (not melted)

3/4 cup honey

3/4 cup powdered sugar

2 tsp cinnamon

Blend all of the ingredients together with a mixer until smooth.  Store in jars and refrigerate.

cinnamon honey butter

We have used this on everything from toast to sweet potatoes.  The possibilities are endless and so delicious!

anne

 

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by | December 21, 2012 · 8:11 am

Rudolph the Reindeer Treat Bags

We are Rudolph obsessed in our house this year, therefore, this project was inspired by my little guy. If you are looking for a last minute way to wrap up some of those delicious Christmas cookies or homemade goodies for your friends and neighbors, or looking for a cute and simple way to wrap a gift for a little one, call on the most favorite reindeer of all – Rudolph! I recently made these goodie bags for a kid’s Christmas party and filled them with bags of homemade hot chocolate mix, hot chocolate spoons and Christmas cookies. They are easy to make and fun for your little elves to help with as well.

Rudolph Treat Bags via Haute Apple Pie

What you need:
Brown paper lunch bags
Large google eyes
Red pom poms
Brown cardstock
Scissors or circle punch
Black permanent marker
Brown pipe cleaners
Scissors or wire cutter
Glue (Elmers or Tacky)
Clear tape

Using a circle punch or scissors. Cut one-inch circles from brown cardstock.

Lay the paper bag flat. Glue on eyes. Make sure to leave at least 3-4 inches of space at the top to fold over. Glue brown paper circle to bag. Glue red pom on top of brown circle. Using a marker, draw a mouth. I had fun with this and made them all different. Some with buck teeth, some sticking their tongue out, etc. Allow to dry.

Fill bag with goodies or gift. Fold over firmly. Slide one pipe clear tightly to the crease of the bag. Tape the bag in place. Bend the ends of the pipe cleaner upward. With a scissors or wire cutter, cut a pipe cleaner in half. Twist one on each side to create antlers.

Rudolph the Reindeer Treat Bags via Haute Apple Pie

I’m sure everyone will love these so much, they will shout out with glee. Too far?

Happy holidays to you and yours.

stef

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by | December 19, 2012 · 10:00 am

Candy Cane Oreo Truffles

Might as well throw one more cookie on just for good measure, right? My mom gave me this recipe Oreo Truffles as a “quick and easy” for a holiday party I had last week. Since then I’ve noticed similar ones here and there on the blogosphere so some of you may already be making and loving these, but because they were new to me I thought I would share anyways.

They truly were easy and turned out looking fancier than they are. Despite my scolding, my cookies-and-cream-aholic husband couldn’t get enough. In fact, he told me I should start making 20% more of every cookie when I have a party just so that he can steal some…um, 20% more, honey? Does he think I’m a mathematician? Silly…

oreo-truffle2

Candy Cane Oreo Truffles
1 1/2 pkg reduced fat cream cheese, room temp
1 pkg Oreos
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 brick of vanilla almond bark
10-12 mini candy canes, crushed

Use a food processor to finely crush Oreos. Transfer to a stand mixer and mix in cream cheese and vanilla.
Roll dough into small 1 inch balls and place on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Refrigerate for one hour. Meanwhile, crush up candy canes in the food processor or with a meat mallet.

After dough balls are firm, remove from the fridge. Melt almond bark in the microwave according to package instructions, reheating as necessary if bark begins to get too thick. Use a spoon to gently roll balls in the bark until they are covered, then transfer each ball onto a parchment lined baking sheet.

Working quickly, top each truffle with crushed candy canes before the bark hardens. Let harden and freeze or refrigerate until serving.
oreo-truffle
katie

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