QUESTION - I need to bake 800 cupcakes for a big gathering coming up in the next few months. What is the fastest way to fill cupcake liners? Lynda (St. Francis Xavier, MB)
ANSWER -- Here are some options: Purchase a retractable quarter cup ice cream scoop "disher" to quickly fill liners. Or use a turkey baster to squeeze the batter neatly into the cupcake liners. Make batches ahead of time; plain cupcakes freeze well.
QUESTION-- I am having different thoughts about cleaning two doors that lead into my office. These doors have dirty plastic windows that I would like to clean up. I have used window cleaner; however that seems to be the wrong product. I've spread some window cleaner on a cloth and attempted to clean the plastic panels, I was not successful. Bud, Winnipeg
ANSWER -- The answer depends on whether or not you mean Plexiglas or plastic. If the windows are plastic; use vinegar (or 50/50 water and ammonia) and a great quality microfiber window cloth and microfiber drying cloth. If the windows are Plexiglas; head to a marine or paint store and purchase plastic cleaner. Or clean the windows with full strength Woolite and a damp sponge. Dry with a soft microfiber cloth.
QUESTION -- I am cleaning my china cabinet and I have a wine decanter that is purple and gold. I notice there is dried wine at the bottom, from the last time I used it which would be many years ago. The decanter was a gift to me in 1968 so I guess it is vintage glass. I have soaked the inside with vinegar to no avail, and my bottle brush can only get in so far. I worry that if I pour boiling water inside, the decanter will break. Do you have a solution to this problem? Val, Winnipeg
ANSWER -- Pour one quarter cup household ammonia into the bottom of the decanter. Leave the substance for 30 minutes. Using an elastic band; secure a scrubby pad to a wooden spoon to reach the bottom of the decanter. Shake and discard contents. Rinse with water until clean.
QUESTION -- While I was away on a recent holiday, my freezer accidentally turned off. The smell was indescribable, I have thrown everything out and washed the inside of the freezer with hot water and Lysol soap, rinsed and then washed with lemon juice and vinegar. Then I wiped the freezer with baking soda and rinsed again. It still smells. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks. Carol, Winnipeg
ANSWER -- Stuff the freezer with LOTS of crumpled up newspaper. The ink in newspaper will absorb the stubborn odor. Leave newspaper for at least a few days. After removing the newspaper, leave a bowl of tomato juice in the freezer for a few days.
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