No-Bake Fourth of July Treats

Do you all have any fun Fourth of July traditions? Every year when I was growing up, my family would have a cookout with all of our neighbors before watching fireworks. And then the real party started and we would set off our own fireworks. It was just the little stuff, no big boomers. But we still loved it! I remember the killer bees fountain firework was one of my personal favorites.

I remember one year this bachelor moved onto our street, and he joined in on the fun. He bought the good stuff—the ones that actually shot up in the sky. It was great!

That tradition went by the wayside a while ago as we all got older and busier and moved away. But I still think back on those times fondly.

This year, the Fourth of July is in the middle of a heat wave in Indiana. Seriously, could it get any hotter?! Actually, I don’t think I want to ask that question because I know it definitely can. Anyway, it’s way too hot to heat the house up by turning on the oven. So instead, I’ve opted for no-bake treats. Of course, very patriotic no-bake treats because you all know me. I live for themed treats.

Marshmallow Bald Eagles
Ingredients

• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• 2 Tablespoons oil (not necessary, but helps thin out chocolate so it’s easier to dip)
• 12 large marshmallows
• Sweetened shredded coconut
• 12 Oreos or other small chocolate cookies
• 12 whole cashews
• Black decorator's gel

Directions

1. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave for 30 second intervals until completely melted
2. Add oil to white chocolate and stir until smooth
3. Dip one marshmallow into the white chocolate and immediately sprinkle shredded coconut on top, making sure to leave the bottom side uncovered
4. Add a little extra dollop of white chocolate to that end and stick on a sandwich cookie. The white chocolate will act like glue to the cookie.
5. Once the chocolate sets, use a toothpick to make a little hole for the cashew beak.
6. Stick the smaller end of one side of the cashew into the hole and press gently until it says in there.
7. Add black decorators gel to make eyes and let sit for about 20 minutes before freezing.

No-Bake Cheesecake Dip
Ingredients

• 2 bars (8 ounces each) Challenge cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups whipped topping
• Fresh berries for serving, if desired

Directions

1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy, or about 3 minutes.
2. Add powdered sugar, Greek yogurt, vanilla, and salt and beat until smooth.
3. Fold in whipped topping and serve