Care for Some Carrot Cake?

Aunt Julie, The Pop'r Queen, is at it again, Dear Readers. Remember, she's the one who's always on top of things in the kitchen. Didn't that Blueberry Pie just make your summer? What about the Strawberry Rhubarb number? And the Summer Block Party Chicken Salad? Did you positively salivate over Aunt Julie's Strawberry Salad? And who could forget that delightful Sherbet Watermelon, or the actually Good-For-You Fruit Pizza? But of course, I can't sing Aunt Julie's praises without mentioning the Taffy Bars, which are just perfect for Fall!

Aunti J., she of so many accomplishments, whipped up a Dee-LISH Carrot Cake recipe that's certain to please everyone in my household, for sure! Julie first wanted me to remind you that you only have Two. Days. Left to enter The Great New Pop'rs Giveaway. Don't miss out on your chance to be a Grand Prize Winner! We're pickin' two of 'em, ya know!!

I don't know about you, but Carrot Cake's my fave. Especially, when we use Aunt Julie's recipe!

Aunt Julie's Carrot Cake
2 cups sugar
1 ½ c. vegetable oil
4 eggs
2 tsp. baking soda
2 cups flour
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. salt
1 cup coconut
3 cups grated carrots
1 cup chopped walnuts

Bake at 350 degrees in two 8" layers (sprayed with non-stick spray) for 45-50 minutes. I make a recipe-and-a-half, to get three layers, and make a really high, impressive cake! Decorate with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Aunt Julie's Cream Cheese Frosting
8 ounces cream cheese, softened (not low-fat!)
1 cup butter, soft (2 sticks)
1 tsp. vanilla
4 cups powdered sugar
(Be sure to make extra frosting, if you make three layers!)

Aunt Julie, you've done it again. How many of you think Auntie J. should start a recipe blog? I sure do!

Another Sweet Summer Recipe

Aunt Julie, The Pop'r Queen, likes to pick her own strawberries when they're in season. And she's always up for a summer recipe, such as Strawberry Salad, which actually combines sweet and tangy tastes in a cool seasonal medley. Top this delightful salad with Caramelized Nuts, and you've got a taste sensation worthy of any summer social!

Strawberry Salad
2 bunches Romaine, or spring salad mix, or baby spinach
2 bunches green onions, sliced thin
Sliced fresh strawberries
Dressing:
½ cup oil
½ cup sugar
4 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
1/8 – ¼ tsp. Worcestershire or hot pepper sauce
Top with caramelized nuts.
Toss the fruit, nuts and dressing with the green when ready to serve.

Caramelized Nuts
1 egg white
1 tsp. cold water

Beat 'til frothy.
Stir in 1 lb. pecan halves, coat evenly.
Then, combine:

1 cup sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon (or more)
¼ tsp. salt

Pour over coated nuts, mixing well.
Bake on cookie sheet 1 hour @225. Stir occasionally.