Today's Kool Idea: Breadman TR520 Programmable Bread Maker

Has anyone ever taken a look at the ingredients in a typical bag of bread sold in your local supermarket? Yikes! We shudder just thinking about all of the emulsifiers and preservatives on the nutrition label. Granted, it keeps the price down to a reasonable level and allows us to keep our store-bought bread in the fridge for a lengthy stay without getting moldy. But when it comes down to it, The Daily Kool is a big believer of feeding our family foods with simple ingredients that aren't a struggle to read. Unfortunately, buying healthy (yet expensive) artisan-type bread at the bakery every day is a pipe dream for most of us, especially in today's economy. What's a parent to do?

There is nothing (and we mean nothing) as amazing as the smell of home-baked bread in the morning...and afternoon...and evening. Who are we kidding? We love homemade bread, regardless of when it's made. Okay, so our obsession will clearly never place us on the cover of one of those low-carb diet books. But, we like to think that we get enough fresh fruits and vegetables in our diet to indulge in what we believe to be one of life's most delectable culinary pleasures. We have to admit though, that as adventurous as we are in the kitchen, homemade bread has always been an intimidating process for us. It can take a long time to create a perfect loaf of bread, between mixing the ingredients, kneading the dough, letting it rise (once or twice), punching and kneading again (and again), then finally putting it in the oven to bake. Whew...we could probably use a bread maker.

We have always heard great things about bread makers, but have always resisted the impulse to purchase one for ourselves. We're not quite sure why...well, maybe we do. Have you ever considered what a stress reliever punching and kneading dough is? Think about it. Let's face it though, either our schedules are fuller or we're just getting lazier with age, but we just don't have the time anymore. A bread machine would definitely simplify our lives, especially one that is as reasonably priced as the Breadman TR520 programmable bread maker.

We saw a demo for the Breadman TR520 programmable bread maker on QVC yesterday and were really impressed with how easy it seems. They made a big deal about the cost, but with shipping, it winds up only being a couple of dollars less expensive than the one featured on Amazon. Regardless, for the typical family, this an absolute bargain at under $60, especially compared with others on the market. If eight functions with 39 programmable options weren't enough, the Breadman TR520 has a host of other features that we love. The digital display with viewing window also includes a crust color control, one-hour warm cycle and (our favorite) a 13-hour delay timer. Imagine putting the ingredients in your bread machine before you go to sleep and waking up to a luscious aroma in the morning...not that we are ever able to get 13 hours of sleep in one night (don't we wish), but that's just us being fickle about it. Add a fruit and nut add-in beep, a recipe booklet and a viewing window to keep tabs on our creations (yes, we're anal), and we've got everything we need to bake a perfect loaf of homemade bread.

The biggest complaint that we have come across with the Breadman TR520 is that the digital display is kind of hard to read. What the company's executives were thinking when they put white lettering on a yellowish beige panel is anyone's guess. Maybe there was something in the yeast that day, but it was really a pretty dopey move on their part. Also, watch out for the kneading paddle...it is likely to come out of the machine with your bread. Oh, and make sure to put your Breadman TR520 far enough back on the counter so it doesn't "walk" off and smash itself to bits. Overall, the issues seem pretty minor for what you're getting with this great machine. The Breadman TR520 programmable bread maker is clearly a convenient and practical way to create yummy loaves that are affordable and healthy for the entire family. How "kool" is that?

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Today's Kool Idea: Nordic Ware Ice Cream Cone Cupcake Baking Pan

What better way to celebrate the end of our National Ice Cream Month week-long feature than with cake? Or should we say cupcakes? The Daily Kool family is headed out to a friend's house for dinner together tonight...of course, we're in charge of the dessert (we have a bit of a reputation). Since there's going to be a pretty large group of kids at the house, we thought it might be fun to do something a little different for them.

Take a look at this adorable ice cream cone cupcake baking pan from Nordic Ware. Since we are always on the lookout for unusual novelty pans, we're pretty excited about this one. Do these cupcakes look just like ice cream cones, or what? Gotta love that Nordic Ware! We really love the detail of this pan. Constructed of heavy cast-aluminum, it is non-stick coated for easy cake removal and clean up. Plus, since the pan measures 3" deep and 10.5" across, it will produce six nice size, cone-shaped cupcakes at one time.

Our creative juices are really flowing with possibilities with the Nordic Ware ice cream cone cupcake baking pan, but we're keeping it pretty simple for tonight's event. We're going to bring several cans of Betty Crocker easy flow icing and some sprinkles to make the "ice cream" to top our cupcake cones. The kids can sit down and decorate to their hearts' content. We'll also bring along a couple of containers of real ice cream...our local supermarket has a "buy one, get one free" special going on this week. The kids can top their cupcakes with ice cream instead of the frosting, or maybe we'll just give each of them a plate and put a scoop on the side so they can have it all...yep, that's probably the way we'll go.

As with all high quality baking pans, we strongly recommend hand-washing this one. Hey, superior baking comes at a superior price (around $35), so we'd prefer our pans to last forever. Also, make sure to grease the Nordic Ware ice cream cone cupcake baking pan very well to avoid stickiness. With so many intricate details to create the realistic effect, even a non-stick coating just isn't enough. Pam baking spray with flour (found in your local supermarket) always gives us excellent results. Experiment with a boxed cake mix first...it's easier, kids love it, and it tends to have the great consistency for beginners with these kinds of pans.

It's just too bad we can only make six cupcakes at a time...we'll be spending most of the day in the kitchen baking. But, with this super "kool" Nordic Ware ice cream cone cupcake baking pan, we are absolutely going to be the hit of the party tonight. Yeah we know we're showoffs, but seriously...how could we resist?

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Today's Kool Idea: Chef's Choice 838 Waffle Cone Express Ice Cream Cone Maker

Nothing says summer quite like an ice cream cone. Some of our best childhood memories include strolling down the boardwalk by the beach with our parents, eating ice cream cones while watching the ocean waves crash against the shore. We could never quite understand how anyone could dishonor the sanctity of ice cream by eating it out of a cup. Good thing we've never quite grown up...as adults, we still love our ice cream cones, even when the sticky mess drips down the side of our arms. Waffle cones help us stay a bit cleaner...not that we care much. We just love them because they are so darned yummy!

At The Daily Kool, we have a bit of a dilemma when it comes to addictions like these. Our taste buds require easy and immediate access for those occasional (okay, frequent) cravings, but our inherent laziness prevent us from taking more trips to the ice cream parlor to satisfy them. Plus, the cost definitely adds up! Sure, ice cream cones are available at our local supermarket, but have you ever read the ingredients in those things? Too many unpronounceable words for us...blech.

Take a look at the Chef's Choice Waffle Cone Express ice cream cone maker. Seriously, folks...nothing beats the incredible aroma and freshness of a home-baked waffle cone. This ice cream cone maker features an advanced professional baking system that delivers homemade, freshly baked sugar cones in about two minutes. Yes, you heard us right...two minutes. Who could resist that temptation? Like your ice cream cone crispier than the average aficionado? No problem...a color-control dial makes that personal browning preference easy to select. An instant temperature recovery feature allows for continuous baking..cone after cone. The unique locking latch function with easy-clean overflow channel ensures each ice cream cone will be uniform in thickness for perfect results each and every time. Plus, the built-in cord storage compartment makes it convenient to keep the Chef's Choice Waffle Cone Express ice cream cone maker in a space saving, upright position.

A plastic cone-rolling form is included with the Chef's Choice Waffle Cone Express ice cream cone maker. Illustrated instructions and detailed recipes make it easy to become a master ice cream cone maker in no time. We love how the recipes use everyday ingredients we typically keep stocked in our pantry, and our creative juices are already flowing with several possible variations. Chocolate dipped sprinkle cones, waffle cups, cookies and even cannolis...our waistlines are expanding as we speak! Just be careful when rolling the ice cream cone...it has to be done when it's hot or it won't form properly. Also, make sure to pinch the end properly to prevent ice cream from leaking out...pouring some melted chocolate in the bottom of the cone is an easy (and tasty) solution. Though it has a non-stick coating, we recommend spraying or brushing the Chef's Choice Waffle Cone Express with a little oil before use to make it that much easier.

The Chef's Choice Waffle Cone Express ice cream cone maker is a great way to enjoy the crunchy sweetness of this sugary treat, straight from the kitchen. It's available all over, but we found the best deal at Bed Bath and Beyond with our 20% coupon...just go to the store to save on shipping, or type in your coupon code online. For about the price of a couple of trips to the ice cream parlor, you can produce delectable, edible delights that are sure to impress each and every time. Friends and family will be amazed at your culinary genius, never guessing how "kool" and easy it is...that's okay, we won't tell if you don't.

Basic Gourmet Waffle Cone

Ingredients:

• 1 whole egg
• 1 egg white
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup sifted all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp. butter, melted and cooled slightly

Directions:

1. Preheat the Chef's Choice Waffle Cone Express. Start with Color Control setting of 2 1/2 to 3, but change as necessary for best results.
   
   
2. Beat the egg, egg white and salt in a small bowl with a fork or hand-held mixer until well blended. Beat in the sugar and beat until sugar is incorporated and the egg has lightened in color slightly, about 1 minute. Add flour and beat another 15 seconds or until incorporated and all lumps are gone. Add the melted butter and stir until well blended.
   
   
3. Spoon 2 tablespoons (1 ounce) of batter in the center of the iron. Bake for 1 minute then check for proper color. Cook an additional 5 to 10 seconds if necessary.
   
   
4. Quickly remove the waffle from the WaffleCone Express™ onto a clean cloth towel. If the waffle is too hot to handle with your bare hands, use the cloth to help lift and roll the waffle around the cone form. Hold the cone a few seconds to set its shape then place on a wire rack to cool.
   

Makes about 8 ice cream cones.

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Today's Kool Idea: Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan

Every week, we try to spend a little time in the kitchen, fostering our love for baking. Lately, The Daily Kool family has become obsessed with baking the perfect brownie. You know which one we're talking about...moist and extravagant truffle-like brownies that have a crackly top, yet are tender with slightly chewy edges. Yum. A perfect edge is the pride and joy of any brownie baker, yet is often unattainable with a standard brownie baking pan.

Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan is definitely not standard...but, it has certainly exceeded it! Look at how "kool" this gourmet baking pan is...its award-winning design has these patented sidewalls that circulate heat more evenly throughout the pan. No more mushy middles, and every individual serving boasts two perfect edges...fabulous if you're an edge family like we are. These days, we expect all high quality bakeware to have a premium nonstick coating for easy removal, and the Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan does not disappoint (though we tend to grease our pans regardless). We love the recessed handles that make it easy to turn the pan upside down, but also appreciate the flexible nylon spatula the company has provided in case we want to take just one piece.

The Daily Kool simply does not believe in investing in a one-dish wonder. So, it's nice to know that the Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan has been designed to fit all 9" x 13" recipes. Not only is it great for brownie, cookie bar and cake mixes...but, we can also use it for most of our casserole recipes. The company is coming out with a nonstick edge lasagna pan in the near future, but we actually plan on trying this dish out in the brownie pan...should be fine for a family of four. Plus, the Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan is oven safe up to 500 degrees and broiler safe for even browning. Keep in mind that the interior volume is sized to accommodate approximately 11 cups, so make sure to plan your recipes accordingly. And, please do not put the Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan in the dishwasher...in fact, all bakeware, regardless of whether it's dishwasher safe, will last much longer if hand-washed.

If there is one thing we've learned about kitchen items, never skimp on bakeware, and always get the highest quality your budget can possibly afford. It might seem a little extravagant, but indulge yourself with Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan...and the reward will pay for itself in the years to come. This pan makes a fabulous gift for the home baker, and is bound to become a staple in your own kitchen. Now that we've completely worked up our appetite, we've shared our favorite brownie recipe for you below. Enjoy!

Cocoa Fudge Brownies

Ingredients for Brownies:

• 1 cup of unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar (we use light brown, but either is fine)
• 3 eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup chopped walnuts, optional (but no brownie is the same without them!)

Ingredients for Frosting:

• 2-3 cups confectioner's sugar, sifted
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, slightly softened
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3-6 tablespoons warm water, as needed.
  

Directions:

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease your Baker's Edge Nonstick Edge Brownie Pan and set aside.

Brownies: In a bowl, blend the melted butter and the sugars together. Blend in the eggs, vanilla, cocoa powder, flour, salt, baking soda and nuts (if using) in that order to make a smooth batter. Spoon the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the middle is just set and does not seem wet and jiggly when touched. Check the brownies after 20 minutes so you do not overbake them (depends on how your oven cooks). Cool thoroughly in the pan.

Frosting: In a bowl, combine the confectioners sugar with the cocoa. Add the butter and cream with the dry ingredients. Add the vanilla and water as required to make a fluffy, spreadable frosting. Frost the completely cooled brownies and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting and serving. We prefer to eat our brownies cold, right out of the fridge.

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Today's Kool Ideas: Wilton 3-D Cake Pans (Lamb, Bunny, Egg)

We at The Daily Kool are suckers for unusual baking molds. Imagine our joy in finding three super "kool" 3-D cake pans to share with our readers for our Easter week...a Stand Up Lamb Pan, 3-D Bunny Pan, and 3-D Egg Pan Set. This is a wonderful baking project to do with the kids or on your own.

We were thrilled to see that these 3-D cake pans were made by one of our personal favorite bakeware companies, Wilton. Wilton is an industry leader in cake decorating, quality bakeware and food crafting. They are the number one resource for nationally-located decorating classes, and proven supplier of professional Wilton decorating bakeware. Their website gives some great ideas with clear, step-by-step instructions to ensure success, even for the amateur baker.

Check out this adorable Stand Up Lamb Pan! An especially sweet addition to Easter festivities, the lamb cake is fun and easy to make using Wilton's Stand Up Lamb Pan. The two halves of the pan fill with six cups of pound cake or another firm textured batter and bake without the need for a heating core. Contoured for realism, they produce a life-like lamb with long ears and a little snout nestled in a laying position. The Stand Up Lamb Pan comes with five decorating suggestions, or use your imagination to design your own. Measures 10 by 4-1/2 by 7 inches.


Peter Rabbit is a welcome guest at any Easter or other springtime event! This precious 3-D Bunny Pan is sure to impress. The two-piece set fills with 4-1/2 cups of pound cake or another firm textured batter and bakes without the need for a heating core. Contoured for realism, the pan produces a lifelike bunny with long ears and plump cheeks nestled in a sitting position. The 3-D Bunny Pan also comes with five decorating suggestions. Measures 7-1/4 by 7 by 4 inches.



The 3-D Egg Pan Set is The Daily Kool personal favorite. A lovely addition to a spring holiday table, this egg-shaped cake is fun and easy to make using Wilton's 3-D Egg Pan Set. The four-piece set includes two oval halves and two ring bases to keep the pans level in the oven. Simply fill the halves with any two-layer cake mix and bake, then flip one cake on top of the other and decorate. Yep, you guessed it...the 3-D Egg Pan Set comes with five decorating suggestions but has infinite possibilities. Measures 6.2 x 6.3 x 8.8 inches.


All three bakeware sets are crafted of quality aluminum for even heating and long-lasting durability. We do not recommend putting these pans in the the dishwasher, though...they will hold up better if you hand-wash them. Also, we have found that many of the 3-D cake pans have stickiness issues, so make sure to grease them very well when baking...we personally use Pam baking spray with flour (found in your local supermarket) with excellent results. Make sure you do a practice run before making any of these 3-D cakes for company...it's always a good idea to get the kinks out. We also suggest experimenting with a boxed cake mix first...they are likely to have the best consistency for 3-D cake pan beginners. Another idea is to use chocolate (we are partial to white chocolate) instead of cake...you make them solid or hollow to fill with other candy. What a "kool" way to impress your guests this Easter!

Check out some other decorating ideas (using our featured 3-D cake pans) from Wilton's website:

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