As Cinco de Mayo approaches, thoughts often turn to tacos, queso and margaritas. But let us not forget the sweet side of life. Chocolate goes with everything and it’s nice to have a little sweet nibble at any fiesta. These cookies are a classic recipe, one I have made since I was a kid. I pulled it out recently to make a batch to send to my niece in college, and as I was … [Read more...] about Mexican Chocolate Chewies
Sweets
Strawberry Basil Chiffon Cake with Strawberry Basil Sauce
Chiffon Cake always sounds so delightfully old-fashioned to me. Maybe because chiffon just sounds like a frilly, girly, poufy tea-party dress. I always see chiffon cake recipes in older community cookbooks, in all sorts of flavor combinations. I don’t think people make chiffon cakes much anymore, but the light, foamy sponge is a treat that shouldn’t be missed. Add some fresh … [Read more...] about Strawberry Basil Chiffon Cake with Strawberry Basil Sauce
Lemon Lovely Bars
The story I was going to write here was about the joys of bright citrus in the gray and gloomy weather of winter. A nice tale about citrus fruits being the sunshine in season during the bleak midwinter. But we've had a spring like February with 75 degree days this year and lovely sunny weather. I ate lunch on a patio. In February. I thought about putting off this post, but … [Read more...] about Lemon Lovely Bars
Goat Cheese Cheesecake with Red Wine Rosemary Pears
I love taking classic dishes and adding a little twist, without adding a whole lot of work. Cheesecake topped with syrupy fruit is definitely a classic. In my younger years, cheesecake with strawberries, or later the more fanciful raspberry coulis, was the go to dessert for romantic dinner menus. With this recipe, you get the brilliant, creamy sweetness of a classic cheesecake, … [Read more...] about Goat Cheese Cheesecake with Red Wine Rosemary Pears
Egg Nog Bread Pudding with Hot Buttered Rum Icing
You have to love a dessert that ticks all the holiday entertaining boxes – feeds a crowd, can be made ahead and is full of festive flavor. And this dish does that in spades. Not to mention that is easy to prepare, but impressive in taste and presentation. And I’ll be honest with you, it’s hard to mess this up. I made it once thinking I’d be so smart and set the oven to a timed … [Read more...] about Egg Nog Bread Pudding with Hot Buttered Rum Icing
