North Pole Dirt Cake Cones
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: June 8, 2023
Are you looking for something different to do with your kids for Christmas or even during school break? Well, how about these treats. There is no baking involved and they are easy to assemble. Everything is edible except the sign.
I have always loved dirt cake. In this one I got to use my Candy Cane Oreos. I don’t remember if I bought them at Walmart or Target, but they sure taste good. Don’t worry, you’ll have a few left over so you can taste them too.
I chop mine up in a food processor, but you can place them in a large Ziplock bag and have the kids crush them with a rolling pin. The filling is just a lot of mixing, which can all be done by hand so the kids can help. Have them whisk the pudding mix and milk instead of using a hand mixer. It will help tire them out.
Normally I mix 2 cups of milk to make the pudding, but I wanted to add some eggnog. First I tried making the pudding with eggnog, but it didn’t take. So on my second try I made the pudding with 1 1/2 cups milk and let it set in the fridge. Once it was set, I added the 1/2 cup eggnog and it came out fine.
I think I am single-handedly keeping Wilton in business this holiday season. I can’t stop buying their stuff. Tell me these penguins are not adorable. And the North Pole Decorating Kit has everything I need included, the candy cane pole, the sign, and the snow glitter. I found these at Walmart by the way.
Before assembling my cones, I just wanted to add one more thing to the poles. I found these holiday Sixlets at the Dollar Tree, they were perfect for the top of the pole. I just glued them on with cookie icing. You can also use red M&Ms if you like. The north pole signs that come with the kit are stickers. I wanted to make them more sturdy, so I stuck them on some white card stock and cut around it to give it a white edge. I glued those on with cookie icing also.
If you don’t want to buy the kit, you can make your own signs with a paper straw, some white and red card stock and a red glitter pen. You can still glue the Sixlet on top with cookie icing.
To fill the cones, I started with the crushed Oreos at the bottom, about a tablespoons worth. Then I topped it with a tablespoon of cream filling. Then another layer of Oreos and a final layer of cream filling.
I smooth out the top, then it was time for the frosting. For a little extra detail you can use some cookie icing around the rim of the cone to make some icicles before you add the frosting.
For the frosting, I didn’t want anything heavy, so I used Cool Whip frosting. I just spread it on with a spatula. I had these Wilton, white sugar pearls in the pantry so I added them with the other glitter sprinkles to resemble snowballs. Then I added the pole and the penguin.
Come on, what kid wouldn’t like to eat one of these? The only thing about these treats is that you have to eat them right away, or the cones with start to get soggy. After I made mine, I walked down the street and handed them to all the kids. They were gone in no time at all. We have a lot of kids in the neighborhood. (Ok, I did eat one before I left.)
You can eat the filling first with a spoon, then eat the cone or you can just bite into it all at once with no spoon at all. It may be a little messier, but definitely fun!
North Pole Dirt Cake Cones
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Keywords: no bake dessert snack cream cheese cool whip vanilla pudding Candy Cane Oreos Christmas trifle dirt cake American winter
Ingredients (24 cones)
- 25 Candy Cane Oreos
- 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 package (3.4 oz.) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup vanilla eggnog
- 1 cup Cool Whip whipped topping, thawed
- 1 container (10.6 oz.) Cool Whip vanilla frosting, thawed
- 24 ice cream cups (flat bottom)
- 2 Wilton North Pole decorating kits
- 2 Wilton Penguin Icing Decorations kits
- 24 red Sixlets (or M&Ms)
- 1 package (7 oz.) Betty Crocker Cookie Icing (white)
Optional
- 1 container (5 oz.) Wilton’s White Sugar Pearls
Instructions
Chop Oreos in a food processor until they become a dirt like consistency or place them in a Ziplock bag and crush them by hand with a rolling pin. Set aside.
In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Set aside.
In a large bowl whisk together the milk and pudding mix until pudding mix dissolves. Place bowl in fridge for pudding to set. (It will be a thick consistency)
Once pudding is set, add eggnog and mix well. Then fold whipped topping into the pudding until well blended.
Next add cream cheese mixture to pudding mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Place in fridge while you assemble the poles.
Unwrap each candy cane pole in the kits. Add a little dab of cookie icing to the tops of the poles and place a red Sixlet on top. Try to place the poles upright until the cookie icing sets.
Take each North Pole sticker and adhere it to white cardstock. Cut out by hand, leaving a small white border around each sign. Place a small dab of cookie icing to the back of the cardstock and adhere it to the pole. Place upside down on flat surface until it dries.
Set cones on a flat surface. Add 1 tablespoon crushed Oreos to the bottoms of each cone. Then add 1 tablespoon cream filling and another tablespoon of crushed Oreos.
Press down slightly with a spoon before adding the final tablespoon of cream filling. Smooth the filling with a spatula before adding the frosting.
If you want, decorate the tops of each cone with some cookie icing to resemble icicles.
Then with a spatula, frost each cone with the Cool Whip frosting. Sprinkle with the glitter sprinkles included in the kits. If you want you can also add some White Sugar Pearls to resemble snowballs.
Place a candy cane pole into the tops of each cone. Add a candy penguin to each cone by pressing them gently into the frosting.
That’s it! You are done. Dig in!
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Is Apple Butter Acidic? Everything You Need to Know
Apple butter is a delightful spread loved by many for its sweet and spiced flavor. Made by slowly cooking apples with sugar and spices until thick and caramelized, it is often a go-to topping for bread, pancakes, and even oatmeal. But, if you’re someone who deals with acid reflux or heartburn, you might wonder whether apple butter is acidic and whether it’s safe to consume.
The acidity of apple butter and its potential effects on acid reflux depends on various factors like the type of apples used, added ingredients, and individual dietary sensitivities. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore whether apple butter is high in acid, its role in acid reflux, and alternative options for those dealing with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Additionally, we’ll discuss how different types of apples, butter, and other foods can impact your digestive health. Let’s dive in.
What is Apple Butter?
Apple butter is a slow-cooked spread made by reducing apples with sugar, spices, and sometimes a dash of lemon juice or cider vinegar. The long cooking process caramelizes the sugars in the apples, giving the spread its rich, dark color and intensified flavor.
The pH level of apple butter typically falls around 3.5 to 4.0, making it moderately acidic. This is due to the natural acidity of apples, especially when certain tart varieties are used. The addition of sugar and spices like cinnamon or cloves does not significantly alter its acidity but may make the spread more tolerable to some.
Unlike butter made from dairy, apple butter contains no fat. However, it’s essential to understand how the acidity of this spread may interact with sensitive digestive systems, especially for individuals prone to acid reflux.
Author Tip: Are Red Apples Acidic?
Is Apple Butter Acidic?
Yes, apple butter is acidic, primarily due to the natural acids found in apples such as malic acid and citric acid. The cooking process intensifies these flavors, concentrating both the sweetness and acidity. However, the degree of acidity can vary depending on the apple variety used.
For example, Granny Smith apples are more acidic than Fuji or Gala apples. If the apple butter contains additional acidic ingredients like lemon juice, its overall acidity may increase. Compared to fresh apples or applesauce, apple butter’s acidity is similar but its thicker consistency may make it harder to digest for some individuals.
Is Apple Butter High in Acid?
Apple butter is relatively high in acid compared to raw apples or applesauce. The cooking process not only reduces the water content but also concentrates the natural acids found in the fruit.
Factors influencing the acidity of apple butter include:
- Apple Variety: Tart apples like Granny Smith contain more malic acid than sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala.
- Added Ingredients: Lemon juice or cider vinegar, often used for preservation or flavor enhancement, can increase acidity.
- Sugar Content: While sugar doesn’t add acidity, it can mask the sour taste, making the spread seem less acidic.
For a milder option, homemade apple butter made with low-acid apples and minimal additives may be preferable.
Apple Butter and Acid Reflux: Safe or Risky?
For individuals with acid reflux or GERD, consuming apple butter can be tricky. Its acidic nature might irritate the esophageal lining, especially if eaten in large amounts or on an empty stomach. The spices commonly used in apple butter, such as cinnamon and cloves, can also act as triggers for acid reflux in some people.
To minimize risks, consider these tips:
- Limit Portion Size: Consume small amounts to avoid overloading your stomach.
- Pair with Low-Acid Foods: Spread apple butter on non-acidic bases like whole-grain bread or oatmeal.
- Opt for Homemade Versions: Control the acidity by choosing low-acid apples and avoiding acidic additives.
What Makes Apple Butter Acidic?
As per the research, several factors contribute to the acidity of apple butter:
- Malic Acid: Naturally present in apples, this compound gives apple butter its tangy flavor.
- Prolonged Cooking: Slow cooking intensifies the acidic profile by concentrating the natural components.
- Added Ingredients: Lemon juice or cider vinegar is often added for flavor or preservation, further increasing acidity.
The choice of spices can also impact the perceived acidity, with warming spices like cloves and nutmeg potentially aggravating reflux symptoms.
Can People with GERD Eat Apple Butter?
People with GERD or acid reflux should approach apple butter cautiously. While it’s not strictly off-limits, the following considerations can help:
- Choose Low-Acid Recipes: Use sweet apple varieties like Gala or Fuji and skip acidic additives.
- Avoid Eating on an Empty Stomach: Consuming apple butter with a balanced meal can reduce its impact.
- Watch for Triggers: Monitor how your body reacts and adjust your intake accordingly.
How to Reduce the Acidity of Apple Butter
If you love apple butter but struggle with its acidity, here are some ways to make it gentler on your stomach:
- Use Low-Acid Apples: Choose varieties like Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious.
- Skip Acidic Additives: Avoid adding lemon juice or vinegar to the recipe.
- Balance with Sweetness: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to offset the tartness.
Cooking apple butter at a lower temperature for a longer time can also reduce its sharpness.
Which Butter is Best for Acid Reflux?
Butter, whether salted or unsalted, is typically low in acidity but high in fat, which can slow digestion and exacerbate acid reflux symptoms. Unsalted butter is generally a better choice as it lacks the additional sodium, which can irritate sensitive stomachs.
For those with chronic acid reflux, plant-based alternatives like almond butter or sunflower seed butter may be easier to digest. These spreads are not only low in acidity but also packed with healthy fats and nutrients.
Alternatives to Apple Butter for Acid Reflux Sufferers
If apple butter proves too acidic, consider these alternatives:
- Pumpkin Butter: Lower in acid and rich in fiber.
- Nut Butters: Almond or cashew butter are creamy, nutritious options.
- Banana Spread: Made from mashed bananas, this is naturally low in acid.
Recipes: Pumpkin Soynut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip Cookies
How to Enjoy Apple Butter Without Triggering Acid Reflux?
You don’t have to give up apple butter entirely if you have acid reflux. By making a few adjustments, you can still enjoy this delicious spread:
- Choose Low-Acid Apples: Use varieties like Gala or Fuji when making homemade apple butter.
- Limit Sugar and Spices: Excess sugar and spices like cloves or nutmeg can irritate the stomach.
- Pair Wisely: Spread apple butter on low-acid bases like whole-grain bread or rice cakes.
- Watch Your Portions: Stick to small servings to minimize the risk of reflux.
Homemade apple butter gives you control over the ingredients, allowing you to customize it to your dietary needs.
Is Cinnamon Apple sauce Good for Acid Reflux?
Cinnamon applesauce can be a soothing treat, but it depends on the ingredients. Cinnamon itself is not acidic, but it can sometimes act as a trigger for acid reflux in sensitive individuals. Store-bought applesauce may contain added sugars and preservatives that increase acidity.
To make it reflux-friendly:
- Choose Unsweetened Applesauce: Avoid brands with added sugar or acidic preservatives.
- Use Low-Acid Apples: Opt for sweeter apple varieties when preparing homemade applesauce.
- Limit Cinnamon: Use small amounts of cinnamon or omit it entirely if it triggers your symptoms.
Homemade cinnamon applesauce made with low-acid apples is a better option, as you have complete control over the ingredients.
What Foods Neutralize Stomach Acid Immediately?
When acid reflux strikes, certain foods can help neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief. Here are some of the best options:
- Bananas: Low in acid and rich in potassium, bananas are gentle on the stomach.
- Oatmeal: A great high-fiber option that can absorb excess acid.
- Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can soothe the digestive system.
- Almond Milk: A low-acid alternative to dairy that can coat the stomach.
- Melons: Fruits like cantaloupe and honeydew are low in acidity and hydrating.
Drinking water or herbal teas, such as chamomile or licorice root tea, can also help dilute stomach acid and provide relief.
FAQs on Apple Butter and Acid Reflux
1. Is apple butter safe for GERD sufferers?
Apple butter may be too acidic for some GERD sufferers. Opt for small portions or homemade versions with low-acid apples.
2. Which apple variety is best for acid reflux?
Gala and Fuji apples are the best options as they are low in acidity.
3. Does eating raw apples help acid reflux?
Raw apples can sometimes help neutralize stomach acid, but low-acid varieties are best.
4. Can cinnamon worsen acid reflux?
Cinnamon may trigger acid reflux in some individuals, especially if consumed in large quantities.
5. What are other reflux-friendly spreads?
Try almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or hummus as reflux-friendly alternatives to apple butter.
Conclusion
Apple butter is a delicious and versatile spread, but its acidity can pose challenges for those with acid reflux or GERD. Understanding its natural acidity, preparation methods, and how to pair it with digestive-friendly foods can help you enjoy apple butter without discomfort. Opt for homemade versions with low-acid apples and minimal additives for a gentler option. By being mindful of portions and combinations, you can savor the sweet and spiced goodness of apple butter safely.
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