During the last year, the patio at my house has been my saving grace. I have room to space more than six feet apart, so family and a small pod of friends have visited for food I have prepared, takeout from local restaurants, but above all, cocktails. We’ve even had local bartenders provide delivery cocktails on occasion. Mind you, we haven’t gone overboard and more often than … [Read more...] about Aperol Spritz Sugar Cookies
desserts
Slow Cooker Dulce de Leche Bread Pudding with Cherries
I’ve focused this month on recipes for the slow cooker, which is such a perfect way to prepare comforting winter dishes. My use of the slow cooker is generally for main dishes, soups or stews, or jam making occasionally, but over the years I have branched out. This recipe is the evolution of a very basic, simple slow cooker bread pudding that I made once for a special meal for … [Read more...] about Slow Cooker Dulce de Leche Bread Pudding with Cherries
Roasted Cocoa Brownies with Caramelized White Chocolate Buttercream
We’ve made it through January, and now is the perfect time for a little indulgence. So I’ve doubled up on rich chocolate flavor with these brownies. Sure, they take a little bit more time, but they are perfect for a day of relaxing around the house with the oven warmly humming and the lovely smell of chocolate wafting through the air. And the deeply chocolate flavor of the … [Read more...] about Roasted Cocoa Brownies with Caramelized White Chocolate Buttercream
Egg Nog Custard Tarts
In the busy, crazy holiday season, necessity is often the mother of invention, and this recipe is proof of that. Some years ago, after a trip to Portugal with a group of girlfriends, I worked out a recipe for Portuguese Custard Tarts. It was really an attempt to recreate a memory for my friends, but they are so easy to make and lovely to serve, that they became something of a … [Read more...] about Egg Nog Custard Tarts
Rosemary Chocolate Caramel Tart
One of my favorite indulgences on my yearly trip to London is Millionaire’s Shortbread, a crumbly cookie crusted bar with rich caramel and a layer of chocolate on top. These bites are decadent and delicious. I have to stop myself from eating one every day, which proves to be my greatest challenge in self-control. I have often tried to recreate the bars, but I suppose they just … [Read more...] about Rosemary Chocolate Caramel Tart
