In all the time I’ve been a blogger, I’ve never gotten into the groove of sharing holiday-themed recipes in advance of the holiday. Obviously it makes sense, nobody wants a recipe for Easter Cupcakes when Easter is over, but I’ve just never put enough planning into it to make it work. Well, this is my newfound attempt at getting holiday content up and shared BEFORE the holiday, and I’m quite pleased with what I have to share! (more…)
A couple of weeks ago I attended my very first baby shower for one of my coworkers at the office. It seems that at my age, I should’ve attended at least one or two baby showers in my time, but somehow I’ve missed out until now, so going to my first one was exciting. What would happen? Would we play games? Did I need to get her a gift or would we get an office gift? What’s even an appropriate gift for a coworker’s unborn baby?! All I really know how to do is bake things for people that make them happy, so for this occasion that’s exactly what I did. And these bars came out great!
When I set out to make chocolate bread pudding last weekend, I knew it had to have a caramel sauce to go with it. Sauces are such a vital part of some dishes, adding an extra element of flavor and texture that brings the entire dish to a completely different level. I’ve made a handful of caramel sauces in my day, though typically as a part of a recipe, and never just to stand alone like this one. I can remember back to the early days of my baking when I couldn’t execute a successful caramel recipe if my life depended on it, either because I didn’t use a thermometer or my nerves won out or I just didn’t have the confidence. Over time, it’s become something I can conquer easily, a simple element that multiples flavor like nothing else. (more…)
This past Sunday, I had the pleasure of joining a big group of local bloggers for the 1st anniversary of Boston Brunchers at Island Creek Oyster Bar. Boston Brunchers was started by Renee of Eat Live Blog as a way to unite local food-minded folks over the greatest meal EVER (in my opinion anyways) – brunch! Since it began in October of last year, it has developed into something so wonderful, for bloggers and the local food community alike. I’ve been to a few brunches over the past year, and they’ve all been a wonderful mix of great food and great company. This past Sunday was no different – the food was delicious, the service impeccable, the company bountiful and so pleasant, and the occasion such a special one. (more…)
This recipe is a favorite in my family – my mom has been making it for as long as I can remember, and I’ve even taken to making it from time to time, despite my love for always trying new things. It’s a great-no bake dessert, it looks fancy and sophisticated, but it’s actually pretty easy to make! Plus, it tastes like heaven – pillowy mousse and coffee whipped cream, layered with coffee-flavored chocolate wafer crumbs. Nothing wrong with that!