Valentine's Day with a K.I.S.S.

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I see all over the web families who go crazy for every holiday.  While there is nothing wrong with that, after all, I've been known to do the same, something can be said for keeping it simple.  I've had a number of years where money was an issue.  I couldn't run out and buy my kids candy, cookies, stuffed animals, etc.  Pinterest wasn't popular and life was crazy busy.  Instead, I had to keep it simple.  Show my kids that Valentine's Day is about love, not about candy and stuffed bears.

Heart pancakes are incredibly easy, cheap, and what kid doesn't love a shaped pancake?  You don't need a fancy pancake maker to get them.  I use large cookie cutters.  You can use a pancake mix or you can make them from scratch (see below for my recipe), which is not as difficult as it sounds.  Once you are ready to cook, spray the cookie cutter(s) with cooking spray and place them on an oiled, hot pan. Then pour your mix into the molds.  Don't pour too much or they'll be really thick and take forever to cook.  When the first side is browned, gently slide the cookie cutter off the cakes and flip.  Beware, it will be hot!  Repete as necessary.

Simple Pancakes:

1 c all purpose flour

1 tbls sugar

2 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

1 egg

1 c milk

2 tbls oil

Red food coloring (optional for V-day)

Whip cream and holiday sprinkles (optional)

Combine all ingredients (except whip cream and sprinkles) in a mixing bowl, stirring until blended but still slightly lumpy.  Place heart-shaped cookie cutter on a hot, slightly oiled griddle or skillet.  Pour batter into mold.  Amount of batter will depend on size of cookie cutter.  Cook until surface of pancake is bubbly and the edges are dry.  Flip and finish browning.  Makes 8-10 standard-size pancakes.  Serve with syrup, fruit, or whip cream with sprinkles.        

What's a good pancake without a cold glass of milk?  Valentine it up a bit by serving pink milk.  You could buy strawberry milk or you could simply add red food coloring to the leche of your choice.

See?  Even on a budget, Valentine's Day can be fun.  And of course, don't forget the hugs and kisses!

XOXOXOXOXOX