The holidays can be a busy time. While the Pinterest magicians of the world are masterfully molding petite chocolate truffles, you’re closing a deal, driving your kid’s to soccer practice, or running countless errands preparing for the holidays. Thanksgiving should be a time for you to sit back, enjoy your family, and pour gravy over your entire plate. Don’t stress over the holiday, simply learn to make it easier.

SLOW-COOKER MASHED POTATOES

These delicious spuds do the work for you. While you’re preparing the rest of the meal, allow these slow-cooker mashed potatoes to simmer and pop until their ready! Enjoy!

You’ll need: 4 lb. russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1? pieces, 4 cups of chicken stock, 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for seasoning, 1 cup of sour cream, 1/3 cup of sliced fresh chives, plus more for garnish, 1/2 cup of warm milk and freshly ground black pepper.

1. Cook potatoes, chicken stock and salt in a covered 4- to 5-quart slow cooker until potatoes are tender, on high for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or on low for 4 to 5 hours.
2. Drain and return potatoes to slow cooker. Add sour cream and mash to desired consistency. Fold in chives and warm milk (add more milk to loosen if desired). Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm, topped with chives.

QUICK APPLE CRUMBLE WITH LEBNEH

Don’t worry; we’ll keep this secret between us. This blend of flavors is an interesting twist on an old favorite. It takes about 20 minutes to make, but your guests will assume you spent hours.

You’ll need: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 large Granny Smith apples—peeled, halved, cored and thinly sliced , 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup water,2 cups lebneh and 1 cup of granola.

1. Heat the butter in a large skillet. Add the apple slices and cook them over high heat, stirring occasionally, until they are just tender and lightly browned, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and lemon juice and cook, stirring and shaking the skillet, until the sugar is melted and the apples are lightly caramelized, about 5 minutes longer. Add the water and stir gently until a sauce forms.
2. Spoon the lebneh into bowls and scrape the apples and sauce on top. Sprinkle the apples with the granola and serve.

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Whether you need a ride to the airport, to prom, or to an unforgettable night on the town, The Franklin Chauffeur is here to help. For more information on our services, contact us online or by giving us a call at (410) 841-8400. For more articles and updates on our company, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.