I am really into icebox cake now, after coming up with two summer versions (lemon speculoos and ginger peach). It is such an easy way to create an impressive dessert. So it seemed natural to come up with an idea for the busy holiday season. Because the best thing about an ice box cake is that it can be made – indeed must be – made ahead. And it is a blank canvas for … [Read more...] about Peppermint Bark Ice Box Cake
Holiday Cooking
Cranberry Mold with Rosemary and Vanilla
The cranberry entry to the Thanksgiving can be a controversial choice. You’ve got only from the can and never from the can factions. I am from a no can family, in fact our favorite versions lack the gelled texture of the canned variety all together. The standard on my table is this cranberry-tangerine relish and or one of either of the … [Read more...] about Cranberry Mold with Rosemary and Vanilla
Smoky Bacon Potato Casserole
These mashed potatoes are not for the faint of heart. These mashed potatoes are the pinnacle of mashed potatoes. These are not your quick weeknight mashed potatoes. These are the mashed potatoes you serve with luxurious beef tenderloin or kobe steaks on a special occasion. These are the mashed potatoes you turn up with when someone asks you to bring mashed potatoes because they … [Read more...] about Smoky Bacon Potato Casserole
Pumpkin Polenta with Italian Sausage and Pumpkin Ragu
At this time of year, pumpkin everything is everywhere. It’s a little overdone in my opinion. When it comes to food, so much falls into the pumpkin spice category, which really isn’t about pumpkin at all – just those spices we associate with pumpkin pie. But pumpkin is actually a lovely thing to cook with and I really love it in savory applications, which I think get lost in … [Read more...] about Pumpkin Polenta with Italian Sausage and Pumpkin Ragu
Strawberry Margarita Bars
I love a sweet bite riffing off favorite cocktails, from Aperol Spritz Cookies to Pimm’s Bars or a Gin and Tonic Cake. It takes a pretty standard idea to the next level. A simple strawberry bar with a snort of tequila and a dash of lime is something special, and a perfect end for a Mexican-style meal, like Slow Cooker Chilorio or Chicken Tinga. I posted a Strawberry Margarita … [Read more...] about Strawberry Margarita Bars
