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Grand Prize: Brandy Alexander Cheesecake
My husband and I really enjoy a good brandy Alexander, so I thought it would be fun to create a cheesecake with the same flavors. It’s not necessary to use both the dark and white creme de cacao in this recipe; six tablespoons of either one may be substituted. —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin
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2nd Place: Peach Bourbon Shrimp
After a whiskey tasting in Kentucky, I decided to create this shrimp recipe. Peach bourbon whiskey has notes of caramel, and peach preserves add sweetness to this easy weeknight dish. —Jennifer Gilbert, Brighton, Michigan
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3rd Place: Bacon, Blue Cheese & Fig Bruschetta
This is my decadent, robust version of bruschetta. I like to serve it at parties, especially on New Year’s or other winter holidays. If you don’t like blue cheese, you can substitute feta or goat cheese. —Kristyne Mcdougle Walter, Lorain, Ohio
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Runner-Up: Meaty Wild Rice Meatballs in Cranberry Sauce
We celebrate Indigenous People’s Day in October. Native Americans in Minnesota have been harvesting wild rice for several hundred years. To honor them, I make these wild rice meatballs. —Joyce Moynihan, Lakeville, Minnesota
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Runner-Up: Minty Pea Soup with Lemon
This is one of our favorite St. Patrick’s Day meals that also tastes great other times of the year. You can add cayenne or lemon pepper for a little kick. —Laura Wilhelm, West Hollywood, California
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Runner-Up: Mother’s Day Ham
After one bite, my husband informed me this slow-cooker ham was the best I’ve ever made. I invented it because I’m always buying international condiments and finding ways to use them. Sumac is the secret ingredient here. —Molly B. Johnson, Stevenson, Washington
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Runner-Up: Nacho Wings
Since I love both wings and nachos, I combined them for the perfect pairing! This recipe earned an award in a wings and ribs contest we held at our summer cottage. —Lori Stefanishion, Drumheller, AB
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Runner-Up: Spicy Roasted Carrot Hummus
This is a wonderful appetizer for Easter, Mother’s Day or any spring gathering. The roasted carrots give this hummus a bright, fresh flavor. Even those who don’t like hummus end up loving this version. —Anne Ormond, Dover, New Hampshire
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Runner-Up: Sea Salt Sticks
When my daughter was in school, her class had a recipe exchange party. The kids would bring a food and accompanying recipe to share with the class. My daughter liked these crunchy breadsticks so well, she wanted to make them for the family. Needless to say, they were a hit. —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California
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Runner-Up: Spiced Squash and Fruit Crumble
This sweet and savory dish is a side made for cold weather and is amazing with any meal. It is versatile and great for potlucks and family dinners. —Joan Hallford, Fort Worth, Texas