Chocolate Covered Cherry Dump Cake

Sinkology is proud to present Emily Schuermann, our food-loving guest blogger who runs Food for a Year. Emily is here to share some recipes she has created exclusively for the Sinkology blog that reflect her view of a copper sink: simple, timeless, affordable, and beautifully rustic. 

 

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Chocolate Covered Cherry Dump Cake! This recipe is dangerous. A boxed cake mix and canned pie filling make this dump cake dessert so easy to whip up – and the result?! The most moist, gooey, chocolatey dessert :: all the homemade flavors of chocolate covered cherries with minimal effort!

Before I get into the recipe details, I have to say that I’ve noticed an emerging food trend and I bet as soon as I explain what I’m noticing, you’ll agree!  Simple, small-portioned comfort desserts – right?! We don’t really have a need for large desserts that serve lots of people and that changes how we cook and bake.

But we’re also gravitating to simple comfort foods. And cake mixes are an excellent tool to bring comfort into the home EASILY.

So, those new trends are the inspiration for this Chocolate Covered Cherry Dump Cake.

Start off with 2 staple store bought ingredients ::

• Devil’s Food cake mix
• cherry pie filling

 

A store-bought cake mix is an excellent baking hack! 

Inside that little cake mix box are all the things that lay the foundation for yummy, simple dessert-making. It’s got the perfect proportions of flour, sugar, leavening agent and flavorings. To bring a little homemade goodness into this recipe, we’ll add a few basic pantry staples:

• milk
• oil
• sour cream
• eggs
• salt 
• vanilla

4 Easy Steps

Dump Cakes are a fantastic recipe because (like the name says), the steps are dump, mix, spread and bake. This particular recipe has been developed with a one-time serving in mind. Small portions are perfect for a one-time treat but if you need a larger portion, instructions to make a 9″ x 13″ dump cake are attached in the notes section of this recipe.

1. Mix the batter

2. Spread it in the baking dish

3. Top with cherry pie filling

4. Sprinkle with chocolate chunks and drizzle with butter

Once the dessert is assembled, simply bake until the center is just set, approximately 35 minutes, and then allow to cool slightly before serving.

The cake batter rises above the cherry pie filling and the chocolate chunks settle into the middle — and the result? A gooey, chocolatey cherry-filled dessert. It’s like a chocolate covered cherry explosion!

Chocolate Covered Cherry Dump Cake

• 1 1/2 c devil’s food cake mix
• 1/2 c milk (I used whole milk)
• 2 T canola oil
• 1/4 c sour cream
• 1 egg
• 1/8 t salt
• 1/2 t vanilla
• 1 – 21 oz can cherry pie filling
• 1 c chocolate chunks
• 3 T melted salted butter
• sweetened whipped cream and chocolate syrup (for topping)

 

Preheat oven to 350°. Butter an 11″ x 7″ baking dish.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine first 7 ingredients. Mix completely and then spread into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Top with cherry pie filling, spreading evenly.

Sprinkle with chocolate chunks and drizzle with melted butter.

Place baking dish on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips.

Bake 35 minutes or until center is almost set (only a slight jiggle when tapped).

Cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Serve with sweetened whipped cream and chocolate syrup.

NOTE – this recipe can be doubled. Use the entire cake mix and double remaining ingredients. Place in a 9″ x 13″ dish. Bake time will need to be increased (approximately 45-50 minutes.).

 

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Get It Done, All-In-One!

Every day, we’re faced with decisions both in and out of the home. But when it comes to home-improvement projects, it seems like the decision-making never ends. It can seem like a daunting task to find all the right pieces that work well together and fit your personal style and budget. If you’ve been delaying your kitchen remodel due to analysis paralysis, we understand. We created our All-In-One Kits to help make the decision-making process easier.

 

Our All-In-One Kits include a Sinkology handcrafted sink, coordinating Pfister faucet, and everything you need to install and maintain your sink. These all-encompassing kits have everything you need so you can stop browsing and start making progress. To get it all done in one, all you need to do is follow these 5 steps:

 

Step 1: It Starts with the Sink

Your kitchen sink will become a focal point in your kitchen, so it’s important to dedicate the most time to selecting the right sink for you and your kitchen. This will be the biggest decision you will make to create your All-In-One Kit, as it is the foundation for steps 2-5. But don’t worry, there’s something for every home. We have curated a beautiful selection of sinks for you to choose from. On the one hand, you’ll love having so many options. On the other hand, we understand if it becomes challenging to choose just one. We recommend you first find your favorite collection: the INSPIRE collection of SureFire fireclay sinks, our FORTIFY collection of Crafted Stainless Steel, or our selection of handcrafted copper sinks. Once you have the ideal material in mind, you can find the right size with the bowl style for your family.

Step 2: Find the Right Faucet For Your Kitchen

Once you have the sink style in mind, the next step will be to look for the kit with your favorite faucet. No matter what the faucet looks like, we promise it will bring high-quality performance in everyday use. When we first came up with our All-In-One Kit concept, we knew we needed to partner with a top faucet maker, which is why we include a Pfister faucet in every kit. Pfister is one of the top faucet manufacturers, recognized for their quality and value to customers around the world. We have nine unique styles for you to choose from, ranging in finishes, handle styles, and additional features.

Step 3: Get Down to the Drain Details

It may often be an oversight, but when done right, the sink drain can tie together the complete look of a kitchen sink. You’ll find that our All-In-One Kits are thoughtfully compiled with beauty and function in mind. Our drains span in styles from our rich Antique Bronze finish to classic Stainless Steel that pairs beautifully with the Pfister faucet and Sinkology sink. Not only can you personalize the look of your drain, but you can also choose between strainer drains and disposal flanges to fit your kitchen’s needs.

Step 4: Pair with the Perfectly Protective Grid

Our exclusive Sinkology bottom grids are designed to protect both the bottom of your sink and the fragile dishes you care for in its sturdy basin. The average grid on the market is purely functional, but with our beautifully designed, perfectly fitted bottom grids, you’ll actually add a beautiful touch to the bottom of your sink. Available in Antique Bronze and Stainless Steel so you can match your grid perfectly to your selected drain.

Step 5: Complete Your Kit with the Best Care  

Once you’ve completed steps 1-4, you’ll receive recommended extras to care for your sink. For example, when you select an All-In-One Kit with a copper sink, you’ll get a Sinkology Copper Care IQ Kit. For fireclay sinks, you receive our Breeze Non-Scratch Scrubber. These final touches will keep your sink your favorite focal point for years to come.

We hope these five simple steps show how easy it can be to upgrade your kitchen sink with our All-In-One Kits. If you love the simplicity of our All-In-One Kits for kitchen sinks, you can upgrade your bathroom sink as easily and beautifully with our Bath All-In-One Kits. Like the kitchen sink kits, you’ll have everything you need to make a beautiful upgrade to your bathroom in one artfully curated, convenient kit. With just a few kits, you’ll make all your home remodeling dreams a reality.

 

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

 

The post Get It Done, All-In-One! appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/get-it-done-all-in-one/

Apple + Plum Tart

Sinkology is proud to present Emily Schuermann, our food-loving guest blogger who runs Food for a Year. Emily is here to share some recipes she has created exclusively for the Sinkology blog that reflect her view of a copper sink: simple, timeless, affordable, and beautifully rustic. 

 

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Especially with the crazy circumstances of 2020, we all need a few simple ‘pulling a rabbit out of the hat’ type recipes. And if ever there was a magic trick recipe, this Apple + Plum Tart is the one! This tart looks and tastes so deliciously fancy but with just 8 ingredients and 30 minutes, this Apple + Plum Tart recipe is certain to have a reoccurring spot on your menu!

Special + Simple

There are a few things that makes this recipe so spectacularly special + simple. It’s ::

• easy to assemble
• versatile
• beautiful
• impressively delicious
• ingredients are easily accessible

A recipe made for your routine!

With all that, let’s break this recipe down so that we can make it part of your routine! First, any type of seasonal, ripe or even overripe fruit will work (berries, stone fruit, bananas, pears — even citrus).

A stocked pantry is key!

For starters, you’ll need ::

– a sheet of thawed puff pastry

– ripe fruit, evenly sliced (1/4″-1/2″ thick)

– sugar + cinnamon (or another favorite warm spice)

– butter + cream

All of these ingredients are items that I consider to be “pantry essentials”. I love that having them on hand means I can whip out a fruit tart like a boss!”

Ooooh how I love this Apple Plum Tart! The sugars and butter and cream get all warm and melty with the cooking fruit juices, creating a quick, crave-worthy caramel sauce. The buttery, crisp puff pastry in partnership with the cinnamon, fruit and caramel is pretty much the most perfect treat IMO! And how easy?! 

Apple + Plum Tart

• a sheet of thawed puff pastry, rolled to 8 1/2″ x 11″
• 2 small apples, evenly sliced (1/4″-1/2″ thick)
• 3 ripe plums, evenly sliced (1/4″-1/2″ thick)
• 3 T cinnamon sugar 
• 4 T brown sugar
• 2 T butter
• 3 T cream
• pinch of sea salt
• sweetened whipped cream, garnish

Preheat oven to 425°.

Start by thawing a sheet of puff pastry according to package instructions. Score the edges to create a 1″ border and prick the center with a fork so that the center doesn’t puff. Brush the edges with cream.

Par-bake the pastry for 12 minutes (so that the tart will be cooked through after the sliced fruit is added).

Once par-baking is complete, remove the pastry from the oven and use a fork to prick and deflate the center, being sure to leave the edges puffed.

Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon sugar and brown sugar (be sure not to get the sugars on the edges).

Drop half of the butter in bits evenly over the sugars.

Arrange the sliced fruit in a single layer.

Sprinkle with remaining sugars and cream and a pinch of salt.

Bake at 425° for 20-25 minutes* on the middle rack (until fruits are cooked through and sugars have melted).

When done, remove, slice and serve. Garnish with sweetened whipped cream, optional.

Serves 6

*If the edges start to to darken too much before the fruit is cooked through, cover the edges with strips of foil.

 

       

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

The post Apple + Plum Tart appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/apple-plum-tart/

Efficient Solutions for a More Environmentally Friendly Bathroom

Have you taken a look at your energy bill recently? If you have, it’s most likely encouraging you to make your home run more efficiently. This year reminded us all of the importance of living green. For starters, we’ve seen the positive impact that living sustainably can have on the environment. And, we know the personal benefit of household energy efficiency. After all, it’s safe to say that we’ve all racked up higher energy bills than any other year since we’ve spent more time in our homes, which became our offices, fitness studios and classrooms.

 

The bathroom is a fantastic place to take the first step to a greener home, given the amount of water that is used at every bathroom visit from shower to sink, electricity use in the form of lighting and ventilation and materials that go into creating a comfortable bathroom experience. From master baths to half baths, small changes can make a big impact. Not only will it help save the environment by using less energy, you’ll save more money by using less of your paycheck.

 

Thanks to a growing desire for sustainable alternatives, there are more ways than ever before to make a bathroom more environmentally friendly. But many require time and money that the average person simply doesn’t have. Installing an eco-friendly toilet or a reclaimed wood vanity sounds nice but it isn’t the easiest change to make. The good news? You don’t need to call in the professionals to make a conscious change. Today, we rank our top three ways to make an efficient, sustainable upgrade to your bathroom.

Kick off your energy-efficient upgrade with one you might have already made in other rooms in your home: replace your lightbulbs with LED alternatives. Not only will you save on your energy bill, but you’ll also save on time spent purchasing replacement bulbs. LED bulbs last 25 times longer than classic bulbs. Many assume that only standard bulbs come in LED form, but there are plenty of options that will suit your current light fixture – or give you an excuse to install a new one.

One way to make an ongoing impact with every use is with eco-friendly faucets and shower heads. Not all faucets and shower heads are created equal. To be sure you’re using the most water-efficient option, look for Watersense-labeled products. For sink faucets, it’s best if the product has a flow rate of under 1.5 gallons per minute (gpm). As for, shower heads, look for 2.0 gpm.

double sink installation with using copper bathrooms sinks

Our number one solution for an environmentally friendly bathroom is with a new copper sink. You recognize copper for its beauty. You trust its durability. But did you know the best part about copper? It’s the environmentally conscious choice. Copper has been mined for centuries and used for everything from the most basic tools to primitive plumbing systems. Once copper is mined, it can be melted, reforged and reshaped countless times. Our drop-in, undermount and vessel sinks are made to last, even well after it’s replaced. Now, you don’t have to feel guilty about a regular renovation. Technically, you’re just supporting the green movement.

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

 

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source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/environmentally-friendly-bathroom/

Meet Our Current Fireclay Favorites

Fireclay is a kitchen sink material that’s beloved by many homeowners. But when asked which of the Sinkology fireclay kitchens sinks was our favorite, it was hard to choose just one. In fact, we found it exponentially more challenging to choose our top fireclay sink than to actually install one of our top three. These easy-to-install sinks are made for the simplest installation that any DIYer can master. Really, every type of homeowner will appreciate how few modifications need to be made to existing counters and cabinets to fit these sinks in well.

 

Our top three fireclay kitchen sinks feature fireclay’s innate strength and Sinkology’s signature SureFire finish. What makes this so special? Fireclay, for starters, is heated to 2100 degrees Fahrenheit, transforming the natural clay into a scratch- and dent-resistant dense material that’s tough enough to withstand your heaviest pots and pans. This process is only improved further with our exclusive SureFit signature finish. This finish forms an extra-thick protective layer that creates even better durability and lasting shine.

 

Once you see these three sinks, you’ll understand why we want each sink’s beauty to last. The eye-catching crisp white color suits an array of rooms from full kitchens to wet bars is one you’ll want to maintain for years to come.

 

But what is it about these sinks in particular? We thought you’d never ask.

Say hello to the Anna. The Anna Quick-Fit Drop-In Fireclay Farmhouse Kitchen Sink features a compact apron-front design that suits the smallest of living places, even tiny homes. Its efficient size boasts an impressive durability, creating a unique combination that is sure to make an instant impact that lasts for years to come. We love how Anna brings a touch of farmhouse style to spaces where many might not think it to be possible.

Next, meet the small-but-mighty Eden. Like Anna, the Eden Bar and Prep Fireclay Sink packs a punch in smaller spaces like laundry rooms and prep areas, but its extra-deep bowl gives you even extra cleaning power and your dishes more space to hide until you’re ready to wash and dry. We love how Eden is both functional and fabulous. It features a flat bottom that prevents glasses from shattering and looks incredibly stylish. Plus, with an undermount install, you’ll enjoy easier counter clean-ups and seamless design lines every day.

Last, but certainly not least, we’d like to introduce Grace. The Grace Undermount Fireclay Farmhouse Kitchen Sink is an elegant addition to your kitchen or compact space. This sink is made for the household that is looking for compact design that packs plenty of soaking space. Its shallow yet wide single-bowl design maximizes surface space without a cumbersome install. A simple retrofit installation is all it takes to bring farmhouse charm and seamless surface to your kitchen.

 

These three sinks are incredibly easy to maintain. All you’ll need is a simple daily rinse with soap and water for the cleanest surface and routine application of the Sinkology Fireclay Care IQ Kit for the highest shine. We promise the Anna, Eden and Grace will all withstand the test of time. That’s why we back all three with our Everyday Promise lifetime warranty.  

 

Now that you know a little bit about our top three fireclay sinks, is it clear why we struggled to rank just one at the top of our list? No matter the style or size of your kitchen, the fireclay sink you choose is sure to bring functional beauty into your home.

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

 

The post Meet Our Current Fireclay Favorites appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/current-fireclay-favorites/

How To: Befriend Your Shared Bathroom

Are you a bathroom buddy? Sharing bathroom space can be a challenge, even for the happiest couples and the most respectful roommates. There’s a lot of grooming, personal space, and “clean up after thyself” issues that are natural in shared bathroom situations. This year’s stay-at-home orders may have made for some interesting challenges in your home: lots of people, all of the time.

But don’t worry: sharing a bathroom harmoniously with your spouse, partner, friend, or roommate is possible! All it takes is a little collaboration and consideration. Yes, both are still important in large bathrooms with a double-sink vanity. Communal bathrooms of all types can easily feel congested when bathroom-mates are out of sync. The first step in sharing a bathroom amicably is to consider how you’ll each need it.

At first thought, it may seem like a lot of time will be spent in the bathroom between the two or three of you. But with a bit of thought, you’ll find there’s plenty of time for all. Obviously, some things have to be done in the bathroom, like showering. But there are plenty of habits that can be done elsewhere like doing your makeup or painting your nails, getting dressed or styling your hair. You might even find a better source of natural light outside of your bathroom in the process. To discourage spending an excessive amount of time in the bathroom, avoid taking in cell phones, tablets, or books. With thoughtful use, you’ll find more time available for all.

But with that extra time comes the need for a clear understanding of when you’ll need it. We believe it’s important to have a general schedule bathroom use, but only for the most necessary things. No, you don’t have to pencil in the exact minute when you will wash your hair and wait for approval before doing so. But, it’s important to understand high-use hours, like before and after work. Aside from the day-to-day schedule, consider when you need a bit of extra time to prep for a date night or enjoy a pampering ritual. No matter how your shared bathroom is used, make sure that everyone has equal access.

One appointment on our shared calendar will need to include cleaning. Again, this doesn’t include the everyday routine. You should be cleaning up after every use. Coordinate the best time to clean at least once per week…together. It doesn’t have to be at the same time with an all-hands-on-deck approach, especially for those with smaller bathrooms. Instead, simply determine who will be responsible for each chore. With clear cleaning expectations, you’ll limit roommate resentment.

Another way to maintain a peaceful environment in your communal bathroom is by staying organized. Each person should have a clearly marked portion of the bathroom to store things. Whether it’s a cabinet shelf, a drawer, or shower caddy, keep your things in your place. It’s basic shared bathroom etiquette. And really, practicing proper etiquette is the best way to share a bathroom. Keep your bathroom-mate in mind and you’re sure to adapt to shared living soon enough.

We hope you love your new living situation, wherever it might take you. Once you’re settled in, we’d love to know your favorite bathroom-mate strategies. Share with us on Instagram @Sinkology.

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

The post How To: Befriend Your Shared Bathroom appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/befriend-your-shared-bathroom/

Is Copper Right for My Kitchen?

It’s no secret that we at Sinkology appreciate a copper sink in the kitchen. We love how it’s anything but ordinary. Of course, the unique look might lead you to believe a copper sink will never suit your current kitchen design. But trust us on this one, copper is the perfect accessory to any kitchen. Today, we break down some of the benefits a copper sink can bring to kitchens of all types.

Let’s start with different colored kitchens.

Dark-Colored Kitchens

If your kitchen is filled with earthy browns or moody matte black, a copper sink will fit right in. We especially love how a copper sink, when paired with a speckled brown granite backsplash, creates a perfect flow from countertop to wall. But you shouldn’t stop at one copper piece alone. We highly encourage bringing in multiple copper elements to dark-colored kitchens, which will richen the overall look of the room. Don’t be concerned about matching copper perfectly. When it comes to this natural material, it’s better to be less matchy-matchy and more eclectic.

For this kitchen style, consider our Orwell Undermount Copper Sink. The expansive basin shows off its hand-hammered detail beautifully, especially in richly colored kitchens.

 

All-White Kitchens

This kitchen style has proven to withstand the test of time. We love the new obsession with marble white everything. It’s common to see white-washed walls, cabinets, and appliances paired with a white farmhouse sink. But a copper farmhouse sink creates a standout focal point in an otherwise simple monochromatic room. An apron front copper sink is beautiful and timeless, and anything but trendy.

When it comes to an all-white farmhouse kitchen, we highly recommend our Moran Farmhouse Apron Copper Sink. Featuring a warm antique color, it’s the perfect accent to a beloved classic shape.

It’s easy to see how a copper sink brings beauty to any kitchen. But it is so much more than just a centerpiece. No matter what kind of colors fill your kitchen, a copper brings functionality to a whole new level.

Busy Family Kitchens

Copper may look decorative, but it’s incredibly durable, too. Its naturally long lifespan combined with our damage-concealing finishes will withstand anything your family throws its way. For big family dinners, we think a single bowl is best. It’s big enough to handle large loads and has plenty of elbow room for more a comfortable chore experience for your kids, meaning less complaints for you.

For the busiest family kitchens, we think our David Copper Kitchen Sink is the way to go. With its extra-deep bowl – an impressive 9.25” depth – you can load this sink with every prep piece and plate. Plus, the tight corners mean easy clean-up. All you need is a little soap, water, and our Copper Care IQ kit to keep it looking like new, even when you’re an empty nester.

Clean Kitchens

When many people think of a clean kitchen sink, they often picture a crisp white bowl or shiny stainless steel sink. It’s common for some to worry that a copper sink will look – or literally be – dirty. The most clean-obsessed will be happy to know that copper is naturally antimicrobial. Plus, it’s resistant to rust and corrosion, meaning it will stay looking as clean as it actually is.

Any of our copper sinks will suit an extra-clean kitchen, but we recommend our Rivera Copper Sink for the cleanest cleanup. It brings all the naturally cleansing benefits of copper in a double sink form, keeping clean dishes away from dirty water.

Do you have a copper sink in your kitchen? If so, we want to know why you love it in yours. Share a photo on your Instagram story and tag us @Sinkology. We would love to feature you on ours!

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If you have any additional questions during your search for the perfect copper, fireclay farmhouse sink or granite sink, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.

The post Is Copper Right for My Kitchen? appeared first on Sinkology.

source https://www.sinkology.com/blog/is-copper-right-for-my-kitchen/