Food and Beverage
Entertaining Made Easy
Last Updated on August 9, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Entertaining Made Easy
(Family Features) When guests are on their way and it’s time to put on your hosting cap, it’s common for stress to set in. From preparing meals to cleaning and decorating, entertaining can feel like a lot of pressure. Taking the stress out of hosting guests starts with easy, tasty recipes you know everyone can enjoy together, made with convenient ingredients. Transform your meals in a flash with Minute Sticky Rice Cups, which are perfectly portioned, deliciously sticky and ready in just 1 minute. The short grain sticky rice delivers a pleasing consistency and subtle flavor in a no-hassle, convenient cup. They’re ideal for Avocado Shrimp Sushi Boats, which offer a fresh and flavorful twist on sushi. Packed with tender shrimp, creamy avocado and a tangy barbecue sauce, they’re a shareable appetizer or light meal. Combining the indulgent flavors of sushi with a playful, convenient presentation, they take the guesswork out of hosting in a visually stunning and delicious dish. Presentation is key, starting with sticky rice, diced cucumber and cooked shrimp tossed in Japanese barbecue sauce. Spoon the sticky rice into the hollowed centers of avocado halves then drizzle with a touch of soy sauce, top the rice with shrimp and generously fill each “boat.” Be sure to choose ripe avocados and high-quality shrimp to enjoy the balanced flavors of sweet, salty and spicy. You can also elevate your entertaining with a Sushi Grazing Board packed with fresh salmon, crisp veggies and a medley of bold dipping sauces. Easily shared and customizable, this appetizer transforms sushi night into a fun, interactive experience as guests can mix and match their preferred flavors and sauces. The artistry of sushi and versatility of charcuterie boards allow you to explore creative pairings while the deconstructed version of sushi – rather than rolling individual pieces – means you can enjoy your own perfect bite. Find more ways to bring ease to in-home entertaining by visiting MinuteRice.com. 
Avocado Shrimp Sushi Boats
Prep time: 4 minutes Cook time: 1 minute Servings: 2-4- 1 cup Minute Sticky Rice
- 1 pound shrimp, cooked
- 1/4 cup English cucumber, small diced
- 1/4 cup Japanese barbecue sauce
- 2 large avocados, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Sriracha sauce (optional)
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- Heat rice according to package directions.
- In bowl, mix shrimp, cucumber and barbecue sauce until shrimp and cucumber are fully coated.
- Spoon rice into each avocado hole. Pour 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce on top of rice.
- Top each half with shrimp mixture. Drizzle Sriracha sauce on top, if desired. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
Sushi Board
Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 2 minutes Servings: 2-4- 2 Minute Sticky Rice
- 6 ounces fresh salmon, sliced into thin sashimi pieces
- 12 nori squares
- 12 thin slices cucumber
- 6 thin slices radish
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup pickled ginger
- 1/2 tablespoon wasabi (optional)
- 3 tablespoons eel sauce
- 3 tablespoons ponzu sauce
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons spicy mayo
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (black, white or both)
- 1 Minute Sticky Rice Cup
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Heat rice according to package directions.
- On large board, place sticky rice in mound in middle.
- Neatly arrange salmon; nori; cucumber; radish; avocado; ginger; and wasabi, if desired, around board.
- Place eel sauce, ponzu sauce, soy sauce, spicy mayo and Sriracha sauce in small ramekins or bowls. Place on board.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over rice.
- To make crispy rice squares: Preheat air fryer to 390 F. Heat rice according to package directions.
- Flatten rice and divide into small squares. Brush each with oil.
- Air fry 3 minutes, or until slightly golden. Add to board..
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Food and Beverage
Unwrap the Holidays: Whataburger Launches 12 Days of Whatacheer With Daily App Deals
Celebrate the holidays with Whataburger’s 12 Days of Whatacheer! Discover daily in-app deals, exclusive to Rewards members, from December 12–23. Unwrap new menu favorites, BOGO offers, and festive savings—only on the Whataburger App.
As the holiday lights go up and the year winds down, Whataburger is serving up more than just its signature burgers—it’s delivering a sleigh-full of savings and cheer to its loyal fans. For Rewards members, the season just got a whole lot tastier.
12 Days of Whatacheer: Festive Deals for Rewards Members
From December 12 through December 23, Whataburger is rolling out a new holiday tradition: the 12 Days of Whatacheer. Each day, Rewards members can unlock a fresh, exclusive deal in the Whataburger App—think crave-worthy classics, “buy one, get one” surprises, and complimentary add-ons that make every meal feel like a celebration.
Whether you’re craving a hot Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit to start your morning, a classic Whataburger for lunch, or a sweet Strawberry Shake to cap off your evening, there’s a daily treat waiting to be unwrapped. Just sign in to your Rewards account, check the app, and claim your deal to add a little extra joy to your holiday routine.
How It Works
- Who: Whataburger Rewards members (sign up in the app if you’re not already!)
- When: December 12–23, with a new offer every day
- How: Open the Whataburger App, claim the day’s deal, and enjoy with your next order
A new reward pops up each morning—so there’s always a reason to check in, tap, and treat yourself. According to Scott Hudler, Whataburger’s Chief Marketing Officer, “12 Days of Whatacheer is Whataburger’s way of celebrating the season with a bit of holiday magic and special savings just for our Rewards members.”
Holiday-themed graphic reading ‘12 Days of WhataCheer’ on a red background with white dots. Below the text are images of Whataburger menu items: a Cinnamon Roll, Onion Rings, a Whataburger, a Whatafresher, a Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, and a Strawberry Shake.
Why Join the Whataburger Rewards Fun?
It’s not just about the deals (though those are pretty great). It’s about celebrating the season with a brand that’s been a community favorite for 76 years. With over 1,100 locations across 17 states, Whataburger’s family members serve up more than just food—they deliver hospitality and hometown spirit.
Plus, the Whataburger App makes it easy to order, customize, and save—right from your phone. If you haven’t joined the Rewards program yet, now’s the perfect time to start.
Get Started
Ready to add some Whatacheer to your holiday countdown? Download the Whataburger App on iOS or Android, create your Rewards account, and get set to unwrap a new deal every day. For more details, visit Whataburger.com.
Wishing you a season of flavor, fun, and festive deals—see you in the drive-thru!
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recipes
A Sweet, Seasonal Spice Cake
Pumpkin spice may be all the rage this time of year, but don’t forget another fruit that’s sure to please: sweet, delicious apples. For an ooey-gooey breakfast, office snack or potluck dessert, turn to this Apple Spice Cake.
A Sweet, Seasonal Spice Cake
(Family Features) Pumpkin spice may be all the rage this time of year, but don’t forget another fruit that’s sure to please: sweet, delicious apples. For an ooey-gooey breakfast, office snack or potluck dessert, turn to this Apple Spice Cake that looks and tastes like it’s made for the season. Visit Culinary.net to discover more recipe inspiration.
Apple Spice Cake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”- 2 apples
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional)
- 1 box spice cake mix
- 1 stick butter, melted
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Heat oven to 350 F.
- Peel, core and chop apples into bite-sized pieces. In bowl, mix apples with brown sugar, cinnamon and flour, if desired, which helps keep apples from sinking to bottom. Set aside.
- In large mixing bowl, mix spice cake mix, butter, eggs and milk. Mix in apples and pour into 9-by-13-inch pan. Bake 30-35 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
- Let cool.
- To make glaze: Mix powdered sugar and milk; pour over cooled cake.
- Top with pecans.
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Recipe of the Week
Holiday Desserts Just Got a Dairy-Forward Upgrade
Holiday Desserts: From festive cookies to indulgent dips, these delicious desserts bring people together to create memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking to impress guests, Santa Cookies are the ultimate treat. For a unique twist, try Gingerbread Dip, featuring vanilla Greek yogurt made with 100% grass-fed organic milk.
Last Updated on December 17, 2025 by Rod Washington
Holiday Desserts Just Got a Dairy-Forward Upgrade
(Family Features) Holiday desserts set the stage for seasonal delight and add a touch of joy to gatherings. From festive cookies to indulgent dips, these delicious desserts bring people together to create memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re looking to impress guests, Santa Cookies are the ultimate treat. Made with Maple Hill Salted Butter, they’re rich, soft and full of festive spirit. For a unique twist, try Gingerbread Dip, featuring vanilla Greek yogurt made with 100% grass-fed organic milk. Whether you’re hosting or deciding what to bring to the potluck, Maple Hill’s 100% grass-fed organic dairy makes it easy to whip up desserts that are as wholesome as they are delicious. Rich in nutrients and free from GMOs, hormones and antibiotics, each product comes from farms that prioritize regenerative practices as nature intended. With a 40% healthier ratio of omega 3:6 and 40% higher levels of CLA fatty acids compared to traditional organic dairy, you can feel good about sweet treats at the holiday table. To find more recipes, visit MapleHill.com.
Santa Cookies
Yield: 14 cookies- 1 cup (2 sticks) Maple Hill Salted Butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
- mini chocolate chips
- mini red chocolate-coated candies
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) Maple Hill Salted Butter, at room temperature
- 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- Preheat oven to 350 F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In large mixing bowl, beat butter, sugar and vanilla until light and fluffy. Add egg and beat until combined. Add flour and salt; mix until dough begins to form ball.
- Remove 1 cup dough and set aside. Add red food coloring to remaining dough.
- From red cookie dough, make one 1-inch ball and five 1/2-inch balls. From plain cookie dough, make one 3/4-inch ball and five 1/4-inch balls.
- On prepared baking sheet, place red 1-inch ball and gently flatten until 1/2-inch thick. Attach four red 1/2-inch balls for arms and legs. Attach plain 3/4-inch ball for head and gently flatten until 1/2-inch thick. Attach plain 1/4-inch balls for hands and feet. Shape remaining red 1/2-inch ball into triangle for hat and attach. Repeat with remaining dough, arranging cookies 2 inches apart on baking sheet. Add chocolate candies for eyes and buttons.
- Bake 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- To make frosting: In medium bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add vanilla and powdered sugar; mix until combined.
- To decorate: Place half of frosting in piping bag with small tip to line Santa’s arms and legs. Place other half in second piping bag with small star tip to add Santa’s beard, hat and hands. Put small dot of icing between eyes and beard and place red mini chocolate-coated candy on face for nose.
Gingerbread Dip
Servings: 8-12- 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons molasses
- 1 container (16 ounces) Maple Hill Vanilla Greek Yogurt
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 cups whipped cream
- graham crackers
- fruit
- In medium bowl using electric mixer on medium speed, beat cream cheese and sugars about 1 minute. Add molasses and mix until combined.
- Add Greek yogurt, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg; beat until combined. Fold in whipped cream and mix until fully incorporated. Refrigerate 1 hour before serving or overnight.
- Serve with graham crackers and fruit.
At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.
Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/
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