Shortbread Cookies

The baking education continues as I make my way through Cooking with Chocolate. I made a very large batch of shortbread cookies, which were a huge hit. It makes me so happy to bake and feed people. I find it is really the perfect end to a long day to come home a whip up a little something sweet. I hope you all go out and bake a little something special!

Chocolate Macaroons

I have always wanted to master the perfect macaroon. Knowing this (and fully aware of my love for all things chocolate), my wonderful boyfriend bought me Cooking with Chocolate for our anniversary. I'm sure there will be many more recipe attempts to come, but this is the first one.

Below is my first attempt at chocolate macaroons that are filled with a little Nutella. I can't wait to keep going!

Orange Cranberry Muffins

I tried out this recipe while I was on vacation and it was quite a hit. A citrusy way to enjoy some baked goods by the pool and not worry about adding on the pounds. I hope you enjoy!

2 1/2 C almond meal

1 C apple sauce

juice / zest of one medium orange 

2 tbsp cinnamon

pinch of nutmeg

1 tsp baking soda

4 eggs

1/4 C maple syrup

1/2 C dried cranberries

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor, blend the almond meal, baking soda, cinnamon and nutmeg. Add in the apple sauce, orange zest, orange juice, eggs and maple syrup. Pulse the food processor until the batter is smooth. Fold in the cranberries. Spoon into a greased muffin tin and bake at 350 for 20-30 minutes (until a toothpick comes out clean). This should make about a dozen muffins. To help the muffins baked more evenly, try using the 1/4 C measuring cup to spoon the batter and this will help you keep the muffins consistent and delicious. 

Orange Spice Cake

The baking continues and as a going away gift to my family, my sister and I made this orange spice cake from the new cookbook. It was really nice to try something a little different (ie not chocolate).

One Piece Wonder

While on vacation, I've been truly enjoying being able to pull an entire outfit together with just one piece of clothing. In this case, this really cute romper, paired with a simple pair of silver sandals, made a put together look easy.

Romper (Club Monaco), Sandals (Tapeet Vicini) - Toenail Polish (Essie: To Buy or Not to Buy)

Raspberry Tart

I got to enjoy a wonderful dinner with family tonight and decided that my contribution would be another recipe from my new baking book. On the menu tonight was a raspberry tart!

Marble Loaf

For a wonderful breakfast treat. I tried another recipe from my new book,  The Art of French Baking: Marble Loaf. What a delicious way to start the day!