Madera Museum

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  • Strawberry Cheesecake Dip

    Strawberry cheesecake dip is an irresistible treat that tastes just like the classic but in a fun dip form! Whip it up in just 5 minutes! It’s so good with graham crackers, fresh fruit, and cookies for a sweet, crowd-pleasing snack!

    Overhead shot of strawberry cheesecake dip.

    Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

    • Quick and Easy: Strawberry cheesecake dip comes together in just minutes with only 5 ingredients, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert. No chill time is needed!
    • No-Bake: Skip the oven! Enjoy all the flavors of cheesecake without the hassle of baking.
    • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or family gathering, everyone will be reaching for this dip.

    Creamy and Fruity

    With its creamy, tangy base and sweet strawberry flavor, this easy dessert is perfect for Valentine’s Day parties, potlucks, the big game, or a simple treat at home. If you like the flavor combination of strawberry and cheesecake, try my no-bake strawberry cheesecake and strawberry cheesecake salad next!

    Ingredients Needed

    Overhead shot of labeled ingredients.

    How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Dip

    Strawberry cheesecake dip is super easy to mix up and can be ready for dipping in just about 5 minutes. I turn to this recipe any time I need a quick sweet treat! And everyone loves cheesecake! Sweet and fun to dip, it’s a dessert kids and adults enjoy.

    1. Beat Cream Cheese: Add the cream cheese to a large mixing bowl and beat it with a hand mixer at high speed until smooth.
    2. Mix in the Other Ingredients: Add the powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla and beat until smooth.
    3. Add Strawberry Jam and Serve: Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a serving bowl and top with the strawberry jam. If desired, swirl the jam into it with a spoon or the back of a butter knife.
    Overhead shot of the cream cheese being beaten with a hand mixer.
    Overhead shot of the powdered sugar, vanilla and heavy cream being mixed in with the cream cheese.
    Overhead shot of someone spreading strawberry jam over the cream cheese mixture.

    Mixing Tip

    How do I avoid lumps? Whenever you use cream cheese and need it to be smooth, I always recommend scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl frequently. This will make sure it is all incorporated and smooth! You don’t want to leave bits stuck in the bowl and only scrape it down later after the other ingredients have been added. This will result in a lumpy dip.

    Strawberry Cheesecake Dip Tips and Tricks

    This strawberry cheesecake dessert dip is simple to make and perfectly sweet, creamy, and rich. It’s a great party snack that everyone will love! Follow these tips to make it a guaranteed hit every time!

    • How soft should my cream cheese be? You can let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for up to an hour before preparing the dip. But you don’t want to soften it in the microwave or leave it out too long. If it is too soft, the dip will end up a little runny.
    • Can I use my stand mixer? You may use a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment instead of a hand mixer if you prefer.
    • What is the best way to top my dip? Swirl in the jam, leave it spread right on top, or blend the jam completely into the cream cheese mixture. The choice is yours! I prefer the look of the jam swirled in, but there’s really no wrong way to do it.
    • Change up the Jam Type: You can use strawberry preserves, jam, or jelly, depending on your preference! You could use freezer jam or this delicious homemade strawberry sauce!
    • Can I change up the flavor? Feel free to use a different kind of jam or even spicy pepper jelly!
    • Dipping Ideas: Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, waffle cone pieces, animal crackers, fudge stripe cookies, creme wafer cookies, digestives, strawberries, pretzels, apples, Oreos, pita chips, and shortbread cookies are all great options.

    Close up shot of strawberry cheesecake dip in a serving dish.

    Leftover Strawberry Cheesecake Dip

    • In the Refrigerator: Store leftover strawberry cheesecake dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days. I recommend letting it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before serving.
    • Make Ahead: To prepare this in advance, I recommend preparing the cream cheese mixture up to 2-3 days before serving. Leave the strawberry jam off until you are ready to serve it. Let the cream cheese mixture sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before either stirring well with a silicone spatula or beating briefly with a hand mixer to make sure it’s soft enough to dip. Top with the strawberry jam and serve.

    Angle shot of someone dipping a graham cracker into the strawberry cheesecake dip.

    More Dessert Dip Recipes

    If you’re looking for more sweet dip recipes, you’re in the right spot! I’ve got plenty of easy, no-bake dips that are SO GOOD. Here are some of my family’s all-time favorites!

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    Strawberry Cheesecake Dip

    Strawberry cheesecake dip is an irresistible treat that tastes just like the classic but in a fun, dip form! Whip it up in just 5 minutes!
    Course Appetizer, Dessert, dip
    Cuisine American
    Keyword cheesecake dip, cheesecake dip recipe, Cream Cheese Strawberry Dip, Dessert dip recipe, Strawberry Cheesecake Dip, Strawberry Cheesecake Dip Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes
    Total Time 5 minutes
    Servings 6 servings
    Calories 279kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Equipment

    • Hand Mixer

    Ingredients

    Get Recipe Ingredients

    Instructions

    • Add 8 ounces cream cheese to a large bowl and beat with a hand mixer until smooth.
    • Add ⅓ cup powdered sugar, ½ cup heavy whipping cream, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and beat with a hand mixer until smooth.
    • Transfer the cream cheese mixture into a serving bowl and top with ⅓ cup strawberry jam. If desired, swirl the jam into it with a spoon or the back of a butter knife.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 279kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 130mg | Potassium: 84mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 799IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 54mg | Iron: 0.2mg

  • Super Bowl Menu Plan

    print the shopping list

    Alright, friends, I’ve got the ultimate Super Bowl spread ready! Whether you’re here for the game or the food (let’s be real, it’s all about the snacks), this menu’s got you covered.

    A collage of 6 photos and a graphic that says super bowl menu plan with shopping list.

    Eat Like a Super Bowl Champ

    • Make It Memorable: The Super Bowl is all about good vibes, and your menu sets the tone for a party everyone will be talking about long after the game.
    • Stress Less, Enjoy More: A meal plan and shopping list mean no last-minute chaos—you’ll actually get to relax and watch the game with everyone else.
    • Keep Everyone Happy: Let’s be real, the food is half the fun! A great spread keeps your guests fueled, excited, and coming back for seconds.

    How to Plan a Super Bowl Menu

    Planning a Super Bowl menu is so much fun! It’s all about easy, crowd-pleasing snacks like wings, dips, and finger foods that keep everyone happy between plays. Mix homemade with store-bought to keep things simple, and prep ahead so you can enjoy the game too. 🏈🎉

    printable menu and shopping list

    How Many Does This Feed?

    I have included 6 different appetizers and snacks for your Super Bowl Party! If you make all of them, you should be about to feed at least 12-15 adults! Stick to the shopping list that I have provided and you don’t even need to figure anything out.

    Jalapeño Poppers with Bacon

    4.86 from 21 votes
    These jalapeño poppers are filled with a cream cheese mixture, topped with crumbled bacon pieces, and then baked to perfection. You won’t be able to stop at one! 

    View Recipe

    Pretzel bites in a bowl with a cup of mustard

    Pretzel Bites

    5 from 1 vote
    Pretzel Bites are the perfect afterschool snacks, game day appetizers, and popcorn replacement for movie nights. The outside of each pretzel bites is golden brown and chewy, while the inside is soft and fluffy.

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    Boneless Wings

    If you’re still working on your Super Bowl food lineup, add these amazing boneless wings to the list! They have a crispy buttermilk breading and are tossed in a mouthwatering buffalo sauce.

    View Recipe

    Churro Chex Mix

    Churro Chex Mix uses cinnamon and sugar mixed with white chocolate to coat the crunchy cereal! It’s the perfect snack for game day, road trips, or when that sweet tooth hits!

    View Recipe

    Classic Muddy Buddies (Puppy Chow)

    5 from 1 vote
    This quick and easy no bake sweet treat is a combination of cereal, chocolate and peanut butter and tossed in powdered sugar. It’s snack attack perfection! 

    View Recipe

    Why a Planned Menu is the REAL Game-Day MVP

    • Stay Organized: A menu and list keep you from forgetting anything (like chips for the guac!).
    • Save Time: Fewer store runs mean more time to enjoy the party.
    • Stay on Budget: You’ll buy exactly what you need—no random extras.
    • Balanced Spread: A plan ensures you’ve got something for everyone.
    • Less Stress: Prep ahead and enjoy the game with your guests!

    Print meal plan and shopping list here
    A pdf of a meal plan and shopping list.

    How to Store Leftovers

    You proably won’t have any leftovers because let’s be honest, the food will be gone before halftime! But, if you do have leftovers, make sure to store them properly in an airtight container in your fridge.

    More Appetizer Recipes

  • Crab Fried Rice

    Delicious crab fried rice comes together in just 25 minutes with simple ingredients and tons of flavor! It combines the sweetness of lump crab meat with the savory flavors of classic fried rice for an endlessly satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

    Overhead shot of a bowl of crab fried rice.

    Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

    • Irresistible Flavors: Crab fried rice is the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence! With tender lump crab meat, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of zesty lime juice, every bite bursts with an incredible taste.
    • A Cinch to Make: This quick and easy recipe is great for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious, homemade meal without any hassle.
    • Better than Takeout: Pair this dish with some tasty Asian sides like vegetable dumplings or egg rolls for a divine takeout experience in your own home. To keep things a bit lighter, try this Asian ramen salad.

    Fantastic Fried Rice Recipe

    I LOVE fried rice! And my blog can back that up! I have lots of recipes and variations on the classic. I recently found out that crab meat is an excellent source of protein. It has a similar amount of protein per gram as other meats but is lower in fat. I knew I had to make a recipe using crab meat and wanted to stick to my go-to comfort food, fried rice!

    Ingredients Needed for Crab Fried Rice

    Overhead shot of labeled ingredients.

    How to Make Crab Fried Rice

    Make mealtime a breeze with this easy crab-fried rice recipe! With the extra protein from the crab meat, this dish works as the main course, or you can serve it as a side to an Asian-inspired meal!

    1. Cook the Veggies: Preheat a large skillet or wok to medium heat, then add the sesame oil, onion, and carrots. Cook until tender. 
    2. Add Garlic: Add the garlic and saute for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    3. Stir-Fry: Add the cooked white rice to the veggie mixture. Stir and fry the rice and veggie mixture until warmed through and combined. If you like your rice to be more crispy and golden, you can cook it longer.
    4. Scramble the Eggs: Create a hole in the middle of the rice and veggie mixture, then add the slightly beaten eggs. Using a spatula, scramble the eggs as they cook. Once cooked, you can then mix the eggs into the rice mixture.
    5. Add: Season with onion powder, salt, and pepper, then add the drained crab meat to the wok. Stir to combine. Then, stir in the soy sauce and squeeze the juice of a lime. Toss to combine. Garnish with green onions and lime wedges, and enjoy!
    Overhead shot of carrots, onions and sesame oil cooking in a skillet.
    Overhead shot of garlic added to the vegetables in the skillet.
    Overhead shot of cooked rice being added to the cooked vegetables in the skillet.
    Close up shot of someone pouring whisked eggs into a space made in the middle of the rice and veggies in the skillet.
    Angle shot of the crab, green onions, soy sauce and lime juice on top of the rice, veggie and egg mixture.

    Crab Fried Rice Variations

    If you love crab, this recipe for crab fried rice is an easy and delicious way to get your crab fix! You get to add, delete, and switch up the ingredients to make it your own.

    • Can I add more veggies? Yes! Load it up with all the veggies! Try adding diced peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or zucchini. I also love using broccoli, cabbage, green beans, or sugar snap peas. Just clean out your fridge and add all that veggie goodness!
    • What kind of rice can I use? Substitute brown rice or quinoa for the white rice if you desire. You can even make this with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
    • Protein: If you don’t love canned crab, cook fresh crab yourself before adding it in! This fried rice recipe is a great base for any protein option! Substitute the crab for bacon, ham, chicken, or tofu.

    Overhead shot of crab fried rice in a wok.

    Storing Leftovers

    This crab-fried rice makes the best leftovers for lunch! It’s a hearty and packed with protein. Make a big batch to store for leftovers and serve with crispy air fryer egg rolls or these chicken potstickers on the side! My kids love it when we have leftovers!

    • In the Refrigerator: Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
    • To Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave. Heat in 1- minute intervals, stirring in between should do the trick!

    Close up shot of crab fried rice.

    More Delicious Crab Recipes

    If you love the flavor of crab as much as I do, be sure to check out all my crab recipes! Here are a few family favorites that are easy and taste amazing!

    Print

    Crab Fried Rice

    Delicious crab fried rice comes together in just 25 minutes with simple ingredients and tons of flavor! It combines the sweetness of lump crab meat with the savory flavors of classic fried rice.
    Course Dinner, Side Dish
    Cuisine American
    Keyword crab fried rice recipe, crab rice, fried rice with crab
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Cook Time 15 minutes
    Total Time 25 minutes
    Servings 4 people
    Calories 280kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Get Recipe Ingredients

    Instructions

    • Preheat a large skillet or wok to medium heat. Add the 2 tablespoons sesame oil, ⅓ cup chopped onion, and 1 cup shredded carrots. Cook until tender.
    • Add 1 teaspoon minced garlic and saute for 30 seconds until fragrant.
    • Add the 3 cups cooked rice to the veggie mixture. Stir and fry the rice and veggie mixture until warmed through and combined. Cook longer if you like crispy and golden rice.
    • Create a hole in the middle of the rice and veggie mixture and pour 2 eggs, slightly beaten into the middle. Using a spatula, scramble the eggs as they cook. Once cooked, mix the eggs into the rice mixture.
    • Add the drained 1 (6-ounce) can lump crab, to the wok and stir to combine. Stir in 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce, and the juice of 1 lime, into the fried rice. Toss to combine, then season with ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper.
    • Garnish with 2 tablespoons green onionsand enjoy!

    Nutrition

    Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 706mg | Potassium: 246mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 5504IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 1mg

  • Creamy Parmesan Pasta Roni

    Creamy Parmesan Pasta Roni uses just 6 ingredients and one pan! It’s loaded with creamy parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked al denta noodles. Your whole family will go crazy over this delicious, quick, easy meal.

    Overhead shot of creamy parmesan pasta roni in a skillet.

    Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

    • Quick and Easy: You won’t believe how easy this recipe is with just 6 ingredients; plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to prepare and doesn’t dirty up a bunch of pans and pots.
    • Super Flavorful: You will love the flavor of the combination of heavy cream, robust garlic, and creamy cream cheese, all mixed together with nutty parmesan cheese!
    • Versatile: You can make and enjoy this on its own, but you can add protein like chicken or shrimp. Whip up a fresh wedge salad and breadtwists and you have a complete meal!

    Simple, Clean, and Delicious

    When I first started out, I survived on these cheap Pasta Roni boxes from the grocery store. Now that my boys are in college and are figuring out how to cook on their own, I wanted to make a simple recipe that replicates the classic Pasta Roni. This recipe not only tastes better than the boxed stuff, but it doesn’t have all the processed ingredients.

    Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Pasta Roni

    Simple ingredients do not mean simple taste. The creamy deliciousness you get from the cream cheese, garlic and heavy creamy is just to die for!

    Overhead shot of labeled ingredients.

    How to Make Creamy Parmesan Pasta Roni

    Make sure you teach your kids this simple yet delicious recipe for homemade pasta roni. It will become a standard for them when they get to college. It only takes 20 minutes to prepare and is insanely good. Scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact measurements.

    1. Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside. 
    2. Whisk: Melt the butter in a large skillet, then add the garlic and cook for a minute. Add in the heavy cream and cream cheese and whisk until the cream cheese has melted. 
    3. Combine: Add the noodles, shredded cheese, and salt and pepper to taste, stir to coat the noodles in the sauce, and cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently. Remove the noodles from the heat and serve fresh. 
    Overhead shot of cooked noodles in a bowl.
    Angle s hot of butter, garlic, cream cheese, and heavy cream melting in a skillet.
    Overhead shot of the noodles, parmesan cheese, salt and pepper added to the cream cheese and heavy cream mixture.

    Creamy Garlic Noodles Tips and Variations

    This creamy parmesan pasta roni really doesn’t need much to make it incredible. I have included a couple of ways you can switch things up if you need some ideas.

    • Do you like it spicy? Try adding red pepper flakes to the noodles for some heat. 
    • Do I have to use heavy cream? You can use whole milk in place of the heavy cream, but it won’t be quite as creamy.
    • Can I change up the pasta? You can use whatever noodles you have on hand. I like the texture of spaghetti noodles, but you could use angel hair pasta, linguini, or even bowtie pasta.

    Close up shot of creamy parmesan pasta roni with a wooden serving spoon.

    Leftover Creamy Parmesan Pasta Roni

    • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. 
    • DO NOT FREEZE: I don’t recommend freezing this dish, it’s best served fresh or kept in the fridge.

    Overhead shot of plated creamy parmesan pasta roni.

    More Simple Yet Delicious Pasta Dishes

    Print

    Creamy Parmesan Pasta Roni

    Creamy Parmesan Pasta Roni is just 6 ingredients and one pan! It is a delicious, quick, and easy meal that the entire family will go crazy over!
    Course Side Dish
    Cuisine American, Italian American
    Keyword Creamy parmesan pasta roni, creamy parmesan pasta roni recipe, creamy parmesan spaghetti, creamy spaghetti, parmesan spaghetti
    Prep Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 20 minutes
    Servings 4 Servings
    Calories 540kcal
    Author Alyssa Rivers

    Ingredients

    Get Recipe Ingredients

    Instructions

    • Cook 8 ounces spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
    • Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet, add the 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and cook for a minute. Add in 1 cup heavy creamand 1 (8 ounce) block softened cream cheeseand whisk until the cream cheese has melted.
    • Add the noodles, ¾ cup shredded parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste, stir to coat the noodles in the sauce, and cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently.
    • Remove the noodles from the heat and serve fresh.

    Notes

    Originally Posted 10/30/2016

    Updated 1/29/2024

    Nutrition

    Calories: 540kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 33g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 323mg | Potassium: 211mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1196IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 279mg | Iron: 1mg

     

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  • IT’S GALA 2013

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  • Hello and Welcome!

    Welcome to Madera County Historical Museum.