20 Delicious Molly Yeh Recipes for Every Occasion

Carmen Eldridge

April 11, 2025

Molly Yeh, author of the James Beard Award-winning cookbook “Molly on the Range,” has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of home cooks everywhere with her creative and mouthwatering recipes. From sweet treats like Funfetti Cake with Vanilla Buttercream to savory dishes like Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Pierogi, Molly’s culinary creations are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of Molly Yeh’s most delicious recipes, covering a range of occasions from brunches and breakfasts to dinner parties and holiday gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are guaranteed to inspire your next culinary adventure.

Funfetti Cake with Vanilla Buttercream

Funfetti Cake with Vanilla Buttercream
This classic recipe combines the magic of funfetti sprinkles with a moist vanilla cake, topped with a creamy and sweet vanilla buttercream frosting. Perfect for birthdays, parties, or just because!

Ingredients:

For the cake:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
– 3 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon funfetti sprinkles

For the buttercream:

– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the funfetti sprinkles and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely. Assemble with buttercream frosting.

Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes

Everything Bagel Challah Bread

Everything Bagel Challah Bread
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and savory Everything Bagel Challah Bread, packed with the flavors of toasted bagels. This recipe combines the best of both worlds, blending the richness of challah bread with the warm spices and crunchy texture of everything bagels.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
– 1 tablespoon dried garlic flakes
– 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, melted butter, beaten egg, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic flakes, and onion flakes. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Place in loaf pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Scallion Pancake Challah Knots

Scallion Pancake Challah Knots
These Scallion Pancake Challah Knots are a game-changer for brunch or dinner. Flaky, buttery challah dough is infused with the rich flavor of scallions and wrapped around a crispy pancake, creating a delightful contrast of textures.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup challah dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup scallion greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large pancake mix, cooked according to package instructions
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out challah dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into 6-8 equal pieces.
3. Place a cooked pancake in the center of each dough piece. Sprinkle chopped scallions on top of pancake.
4. Fold dough over pancake, forming a knot. Tuck ends under and press gently to seal.
5. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Matcha Mochi Donuts

Matcha Mochi Donuts
Experience the unique fusion of Japanese matcha green tea and chewy mochi dough wrapped around a soft, fluffy donut. This recipe combines two popular desserts into one mouthwatering treat.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and sugar.
3. Add matcha powder, yeast, and milk. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
4. Beat in eggs until fully incorporated.
5. Pipe the dough into donut shapes and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar. Serve warm.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are a perfect combination of crispy edges and chewy centers, with the added depth of flavor from browned butter and dark chocolate chips.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.

Yield: About 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Pierogi

Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Pierogi
Elevate your pierogi game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of caramelized onions with the creaminess of Gruyère cheese.

Ingredients:

– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– Water, as needed
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook onions in butter over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add Gruyère cheese to the dough mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Add beaten egg and mix until a smooth dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Place caramelized onions in the center of each dough circle.
7. Fold dough over filling, forming a half-moon shape.
8. Cook pierogi in boiling water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
9. Serve with your choice of toppings and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Rainbow Sprinkle Sugar Cookies

Rainbow Sprinkle Sugar Cookies
Add a pop of color and fun to your baking with these vibrant Rainbow Sprinkle Sugar Cookies. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or just because!

Ingredients:

– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Rainbow sprinkles (enough for decoration)
– Colored sugar or sanding sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. Decorate with rainbow sprinkles and additional colored sugar or sanding sugar, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Za’atar Roasted Carrot Hummus

Za
Elevate your hummus game with this unique twist that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted carrots with the bright, herbaceous flavor of za’atar. This creamy dip is perfect for snacking or serving as a side to your favorite Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.

Ingredients:

– 2 large carrots
– 1/4 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon za’atar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss carrots with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted carrots, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, za’atar, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Blend until smooth, adding the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil as needed.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (roasting time) + blending time

Sesame Ginger Noodle Salad

Sesame Ginger Noodle Salad
This Sesame Ginger Noodle Salad is a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional noodle salads. With the combination of nutty sesame seeds, spicy ginger, and tender noodles, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 8 oz noodles (rice or soba work well)
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook noodles according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil and grated ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, sesame-ginger mixture, toasted sesame seeds, chopped scallions, and diced cucumber.
4. Toss gently to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time for noodles)

Cardamom Coffee Cake

Cardamom Coffee Cake
Start your day with a sweet and aromatic treat by making this Cardamom Coffee Cake, infused with the warm spices of cardamom and coffee.

Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Add flour mixture to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in cardamom and coffee.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies

Brown Butter Pumpkin Blondies
These chewy blondies are infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and brown butter, perfect for a cozy fall treat. With a hint of spice and a crunchy pecan topping, they’re sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and top with chopped pecans.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese

Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the smooth richness of smoked Gouda cheese with the comforting warmth of macaroni and cheese. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in smoked Gouda and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Lemon Blueberry Poppy Seed Cake

Lemon Blueberry Poppy Seed Cake
Brighten up your day with this moist and flavorful cake, infused with the sweetness of blueberries and the brightness of lemon zest. This Lemon Blueberry Poppy Seed Cake is perfect for a brunch or afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons poppy seeds

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and lemon zest.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, lemon juice, melted butter, yogurt, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in blueberries and poppy seeds.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Spiced Sweet Potato Latkes

Spiced Sweet Potato Latkes
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this unique twist on traditional latkes, incorporating the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and a blend of warming spices.

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, and beaten eggs to the mixture. Stir until smooth.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the sweet potato mixture into the oil.
5. Flatten each latke slightly with a spatula and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Chocolate Tahini Babka

Chocolate Tahini Babka
Experience the perfect blend of creamy tahini, velvety chocolate, and tender babka dough in this indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup tahini paste
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and tahini until smooth. Add chocolate chips and mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness and spread with the chocolate-tahini mixture.
7. Roll up, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place seam-side down in the prepared loaf pan.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Rosemary Garlic Focaccia

Rosemary Garlic Focaccia
Rosemary Garlic Focaccia Recipe

Experience the rustic charm of Italy with this flavorful rosemary garlic focaccia, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 4 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, garlic, and rosemary to the bowl; stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add flour, stirring with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a smooth dough is achieved.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until elastic and slightly sticky.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down the dough; shape into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Strawberry Rhubarb Galette

Strawberry Rhubarb Galette
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional pie-making, this strawberry rhubarb galette is a delightful dessert for springtime gatherings. With its rustic crust and perfectly balanced flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with your friends and family.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup sliced rhubarb
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press dough into a 9-inch round tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. In a separate bowl, mix strawberries, rhubarb, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
6. Pour fruit mixture onto center of dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Fold crust up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
8. Brush crust with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) for golden glaze.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling bubbles.

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes

Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Start your day with a fluffy and flavorful twist on traditional pancakes – Cinnamon Roll Pancakes! This recipe combines the classic cinnamon roll flavors with the convenience of a pancake, perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar (a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon)
– Fresh fruit or whipped cream for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in cinnamon sugar.
5. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Harissa Roasted Cauliflower

Harissa Roasted Cauliflower
Elevate your roasted cauliflower game with the bold flavors of North African cuisine! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the spicy kick of harissa, a chili pepper paste.

Ingredients:
• 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp harissa
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, harissa, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread cauliflower in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Black Sesame Shortbread Cookies

Black Sesame Shortbread Cookies
Elevate your snacking game with these crumbly, nutty shortbread cookies infused with the rich flavor of black sesame.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Stir in black sesame seeds.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to be inspired by Molly Yeh’s delicious recipes! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes has something for every occasion. From sweet treats like Funfetti Cake with Vanilla Buttercream and Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, to savory delights like Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Pierogi and Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese, there’s a recipe to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get baking (or cooking), and indulge in the flavors of Molly Yeh!

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