Blackberries and chocolate are not a combination that pops into mind readily. I think we tend to think summer and fruit and light and bright. But they make a wonderful pair, rich deep chocolate with the dusky purple winey-ness of the berries. Last summer, I pulled together this Chocolate Blackberry Cake with Red Wine, all majestic, lush flavors and the idea has kind of stuck … [Read more...] about Blackberry Swirl Brownies
Fruit
Fresh Peach Bars
Fresh summer peaches are the best sweet I know. And I am always testing out new ways to make the most of them. And I think this is a pretty novel one. A bouncy layer of peach-rich curd baked on a sugar cookie crust. Not quite like a lemon bar, but in the general vicinity. But the real bonus right in the middle of a hot and busy summer is how easy these are to make. Spin up the … [Read more...] about Fresh Peach Bars
Blueberry Vanilla Bars
I really love the incredibly vivid blue hue of these summery sweet treats. And even more so because it is totally natural, not food coloring needed. Reducing pureed blueberries concentrates both the sweet flavor and the color, creating these surprising and delicious bars. I love a healthy dose of speckled vanilla bean paste, though extract works as well, to complement the … [Read more...] about Blueberry Vanilla Bars
Baked Blintz Casserole with Peach Basil Compote
Summer weekends. At the lake, at the beach, in the mountains, at home. It’s a great time for a leisurely breakfast or brunch. Actually at a table, not in the car or at your desk. But that doesn’t have to mean a ton of cooking at the crack of dawn. This make-ahead blintz casserole is a perfect summer morning meal. Creamy and airy and just sweet enough. Add to it a peak season … [Read more...] about Baked Blintz Casserole with Peach Basil Compote
Blueberry Ripple Pound Cake
You can’t really go wrong with a classic pound cake, especially when it has a special touch. And this ripple of fresh blueberries is all kinds of special. The cake is tender with this juicy pop of lemony berries swirled through. Not only is it delicious, but it is so pretty to look at – and makes for an impressive presentation with an easy preparation. Present this to your … [Read more...] about Blueberry Ripple Pound Cake
