Sunday, September 23, 2012

Pumpkin Cheesecake with a Gingerbread Crust


This has to be one of my absolute favorite recipes for fall. I have been making it for years but it seems that whenever the autumn season hits I can not pump out enough of these cheesecakes for my friends and family. Your loved ones will rave over this fabulous recipe. Garnish it with some freshly whipped cream and a sprinkling of cookie crumbs and I assure you it will be a major success... Enjoy! 

Ingredients for the crust:
12 oz. Gingerbread men 
1 cup pecans
1 stick butter, melted

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350

Lightly spray a 12 inch springform pan with cooking spray and set aside.

 Place the gingerbread men and the pecans in a food processor and grind until they form coarse crumbs.  

Place in a bowl and slowly add the butter while mixing with your hands ( As soon as you can pack the mixture without it falling apart, it is ready )

Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan.  

Bake for 15 minutes then  place in the refrigerator until cool.

Ingredients for the filling:
2 lbs cream cheese ( softened )
1 cup light brown sugar
6 eggs (Farm fresh is best!)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup flour (All purpose, I prefer unbleached, sifted ) 
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/8 tsp allspice
pinch salt
1 tsp vanilla (the real stuff!)
2 cups pumpkin puree

Place the cream cheese in a kitchen aide using the paddle and blend until smooth.

 Add the sugar and blend until smooth; scrape down sides of bowl.  

one at a time, add the eggs making sure they are thoroughly blended before adding another then slowly pour in the heavy cream, flour, cinnamon, five spice and salt one at a time blending after each ingredient.

  Add the vanilla and pumpkin then blend completely, scraping down the sides and making sure there are no lumps.  

Spray the pan, with the pre-baked crust, again with cooking spray.  

Pour the mixture (it will be pretty liquid) into the pan and place in the middle of the preheated oven.  Bake for about 1 hour 20 minutes, checking frequently after 1 hour.

 The cake is finished when it is browning around the edges and top, and is mostly set; the center might still be slightly wobbly. 

 Remove from the oven and carefully cut around the edges of the cake with a very sharp knife ( this will prevent the cake from cracking as it cools )  

Allow to cool completely ( roughly 6 hours or overnight )



Garnish with some whipped cream and serve along side a nice cup of hot cocoa and a good book. Enjoy everyone and happy Autumnal equinox everyone! 

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Crock Pot Style Apple Butter

Soon it will be time for brightly colored pumpkins, fuzzy scarfs, crunchy leaves, and the aroma of sweet apples filling the crisp autumn air. What better way to start off the autumn season then breaking out the crock pot and filling your home with the supple & sensuous smell of apples and cinnamon. The aromatic effects of this recipe are reason enough to make it but it's not the only reason you should. This recipe offers a wonderful opportunity to create a memory with your loved ones. Spend some bonding time with the family or significant other picking, peeling, and preparing apples when you bring love into the kitchen wonderful memories will always be had... Enjoy! 

Ingredients: 
5-10lbs Apples ( about a grocery bag full, peeled and diced ) 
1 quart water
1/3 cup White Sugar 
2 1/2 tbsp. Brown Sugar
1/4 tsp. Salt 
1/4 tsp. Allspice
2 tbsp. Cinnamon
1 tsp. Vanilla Extract 

Place all ingredient in a crock pot, stir well so that everything is evenly distributed. 

Cook on low for 10 hours, stirring occasionally.

using an emulsion blender, puree apples. 

If you choose to can it, do it at this time. If not serve up the warm apple butter in a bowl, sprinkle with granola and a scoop of icecream for a fun take on apple pie sundaes! Enjoy! 



Saturday, September 8, 2012

Our first contest!

Who can resist an oatmeal raisin cookie? Add some chocolate and they are virtually irresistable! The creaminess of the white chocolate pairs with the fruity component of the raisins and the earthiness of the oatmeal. These cookies are just fabulous and something everyone can enjoy! The only thing that would make this recipe more awesome is a fun name to go along with it! And that is where you come in my friends! BadToTheScone is hosting our very first contest! Submit your entries for a fun and unique name for these cookies in the comment section and the winner will receive a fabulous little homemade gift made by me ( and who doesn't love free stuff! )... Enjoy! 

1 cup whole wheat flour
1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tbsp cinnamon (or more as desired)
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup oil (Canola Oil)
1 tbsp molasses
1 egg (beat with 1 Tbsp Water)
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup white chocolate chips

Directions: 

Preheat oven to 375

In a large mixing bowl combine honey, oil, vanilla, egg, and molasses. 

In a seperate bowl combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and oats. Mix well. 

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet. once mixed fold in the raisins and white chocolate. Roll dough into 1 inch balls and lay on a baking sheet. 

Bake at 375 for 10-15 minutes. 

Best served with a tall glass of milk and a nice book... Enjoy! 




Sunday, August 26, 2012

Make your own edible food paint for pastry!


I was making a pie the other day for my friends birthday and I wanted to add a little pizazz to it! I still had a bunch of my egg wash left over so I added a few drops of food dye into it and viola! here you have it! a fun and super easy way to add a little color to your pastry... Enjoy! 

Ingredients: 
1 egg
2 tbsp water
food dye 

directions: whisk egg and water togethor, add a few drops of food dye to reach desired color, mix well. Using your finger or a paint brush, paint desired design onto pastry. Bake and enjoy! 





My heart is Sherlocked on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Ever since it was recently brought to my attention that BBC had come out with a Television Series based around Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's famous Criminal Investigation books, Sherlock Holmes. I have been excited yet skeptical to see it. The Sherlock Holmes books have been a childhood favorite of mine for as long as I can remember. These books were the reason I once aspired to become a homicide detective, that is before I found a career path a little less bloody (only slightly). Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's books were written with beautiful elegance and his plots were brimming with anticipation and suspense. So you could imagine my skepticism when I found out someone was once again trying to remake my favorite pieces of literature. The Pilot started with an Episode titles, a study in pink. A play off of Sir Arthur's First Novel, the introduction to Sherlock Holmes; A Study in Scarlette. Now when I first saw this I was not only thrilled as A Study in Scarlette is one of my favorites of the series but also perplexed because I couldn't fathom why they would change the name to A Study in Pink. As I watched the Episode I noticed that it was based in modern time london which gave it a rather unique appeal. However, The story line did not match up with novel and therefore made me feel not only a bit frustrated but also sad at the same time. 
A Study in Scarlet is one of the most beautiful tales of love, passion, and struggle I have yet to come across. Set in the Mid-West America's, Utah to be specific. It is a tale of a lone nomad and a precious little girl, survived by her 2 parents who perished in the extreme desert sun from dehydration and starvation. 
 The lone nomad rescues the young girl and decides to raise her as his own. He carried her in a travel sac for miles until he could go no more, set and ready to die by the desert sun, he clutched the girl in his arms and rested what he imagined to be his final rest. Just in the nick of time they are rescued by a convoy of travelling Mormons who rescue to the two on the sole condition that they will take hold of their religion wholeheartedly. Left with little choice the man agrees and begins to build a life with in the Mormon community. 
This man raises the small girl into a fine young woman. It is only when she finds love outside the Mormon community that troubles arise. In a terrifying decision, the family abandons their religion and runs for freedom in a struggle between life and death... 
This was a something that was never even hinted upon in the Pilot of the show. It was what I felt to be, the most beautiful part of this story. Instead the show reflects the man to be a psychotic serial killer with a God complex.  I will not deny that the show was very intriguing and I did in fact absolutely love Benedict Cumberbatch as the character of sir Sherlock Holmes and the fact that it was based in modern day was a concept I instantly fell in love with. All in all I think the show will turn out to be quiet wonderful as long as I am willing to set my pickyness aside and enjoy it for what it is, another one of what I am sure will be Steven Moffat's masterpieces. 


Monday, August 13, 2012

Creole bean stew

So simple, so easy, and so delicious! The best way I can describe this soup is that it will make you wanna "giddy'up" on somebody after you've finished a bowl! This soup would be perfect for a cold winters day, however I was dumb enough to make it in the middle of august on one of the hottest days of the year. It was still equally delicious and totally worth the 12 degree shower I had to take afterwards just to cool down. I hope you love this ragin' cajun dish and much as I did... Enjoy! 

Ingredients: 
21/2 cups 17 bean soup mix ( Just the dried beans, soaked in water overnight ) 
4 carrots ( chopped ) 
1 medium walla walla sweet onion ( chopped ) 
4 cloves garlic ( minced ) 
1 quart chicken stock 
1 quart vegetable stock 
1 tsp. salt & white pepper 
1 tbsp. Creole seasoning 
1 tsp. oregano 
2 tbsp. sriracha sauce 
1 tsp. paprika 
1/4 cup flour 
1/4 cup butter 
1/2 tsp. chili garlic paste 

In a large crockpot, add beans, carrots, onion, garlic, stock, spices, and sriracha. 

Cover with lid and cook for 6 hours on high. In a small pan melt butter and chile garlic paste. 

Stirring constantly add flour until smooth to form a rue. 

Cook rue for a minute or two to cook out the flavor of the raw flour. 

Scoop some of the broth into the rue to thin it out a bit and pour the rue into the beans. Cook the beans a few minutes longer to thicken the stew up and serve alongside a nice buttery biscuit or some good old fashioned cornbread, an ice cold glass of ice tea, and of course a good friend to share it all with. 

If you want to add some extra protein to this dish, some smoked ham (cut into cubes) would make a great addition!  

Saturday, August 11, 2012

Poppin' Paper Bag Popcorn

This is such a great trick for those movie nights with friends. Make individual popcorn bags! These are great for the slumber parties for the kids, movie nights with friends, or even a simple snack to take to work. It provides easy clean-up and best of all you won't have to worry about the harmful chemicals brought on by microwave popcorn... Enjoy! 

Ingredients: 
1/4 cup popping corn 
1 brown paper lunch bag 
small piece of tape


Directions: 

Open the brown paper sack, fill with popping corn and fold the edge over on the bag then tape it shut. 

Microwave for 1:30 - 3 minutes, depending on microwave and how long it takes to pop most of it. Remove from microwave when popping slow's down to 1- second intervals. Remove from microwave, peel off the tape, open the bag and enjoy! 

Best served with your favorite topping, a nice cold beverage, and a great movie! 


Friday, August 10, 2012

We No Speak Americano Pasta salad

This salad is perfect for a nice summer evening. This italian-american fusion style dish is zesty and full of life! Share this salad on the beach, at the park, near a waterfall, or where ever your heart desires! But being outside is a must when enjoying this delicious dish... Enjoy! 


Ingredients:
1/2 small red onion ( Diced small ) 
2 tomatoes ( Diced ) 
3 tbsp. Cilantro ( Minced ) 
2 cups Garden Pasta 
1 head Romaine lettuce ( chopped ) 
1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 
3 tbsp. Balsalmic Vinegar 
1 tsp. Basil ( Dried or fresh ) 
1/2 tsp. Oregano ( dried ) 
1 tsp. Garlic Powder 
1/4 tsp. Salt 
1/2 tsp. Lemon Pepper 
Pepperoncini ( Sliced, Optional ) 
1/4 cup olives ( sliced, Optional ) 
1/4 cup Romano ( Grated )

Boil pasta, drain, and rinse with cold water to chill. 

In a large bowl, whisk together Olive Oil, Vinegar, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and lemon pepper. 

Add remaining ingredients to the bowl and toss lightly to coat. 

Serve alongside some crusty bread, a nice glass of wine, and a picnic table in the park. 



Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Blackheart Sangria


This sinfully delicious sangria was inspired by none other than Joan Jett the blackhearts. Sangria is a wonderful excuse to "Punk" up your fruit! This sweet and juicy wine packs a powerful punch... Enjoy! 


Ingredients: 

1 bottle Red Wine ( I prefer to use a cabernet sauvignon )
1 handul black cherries 
1 handful blueberries 
2 blood oranges 
1 nectarine 
1 wedge of melon ( i like honeydew) 
2 tbsp. Sugar
1/4 Cup Brandy
2 Cup Vermouth
Ice (optional)
Club soda (optional)

Directions: 
Remove stems and pits from cherries. Cut the blood orange into round slices. Remove pit from nectarine and cut into wedges. Remove rind from honey dew and cut into bite size pieces. rinse the blueberries. 

Place fruit in a large bowl and sprinkle with sugar.

Gently press the fruit with a wooden spoon, extracting some of the juices but not pulverizing the flesh.

Drizzle a small amount of brandy over the fruit.

Allow the bowl of fruit mixture to settle for at least 15 minutes. Give it enough time to absorb the brandy and sugar.

Empty the bottle of red wine into a wine carafe ( if you don't have a carafe a nice pitcher will do as well ) 

Spoon the fruit mixture into the pitcher and stir in the vermouth.

Place the sangria in the refrigerator and allow ingredients to settle overnight, or at least 8-12 hours.

Serve with or without ice. Add a drizzle of club soda to glass if desired.

Best served on a warm summer evening with plenty of friends and some good pasta.




Friday, August 3, 2012

DIY Doctor Who Party

I talk a lot about serving food for dinner parties, small gatherings, and community functions. I feel that food is best enjoyed when surrounded with love, laughter, and adventure. To me food is not just a life source, it is an experience. It is an opportunity to create something new, something wonderful, and something worth sharing with the people you care most about in this world. That is why I strive to create dishes to please wonderful people like you... Enjoy! 




For Drinks you will need:
TARDIS Jello Shots
Sonic Screwdrivers
Captain Jack's 


For food you will need:
Doctor Who-sier Pie
Tiny TARDIS Pies ( Brought to you by BBC America )
Doctor Who Companion Cookies 


For Activities! try your hand at The Doctor Who Drinking Game Brought to you by the wonderful people at www.filmschoolrejects.com!


Did you run short on time? What about having your guests decorate your Doctor Who Companion Cookies as a fun interactive project, the best part is you get to eat your creations! 


If crafts are more your game, make some fun Cybermen Costumes! provided by Bonnie Burton and her new youtube show #DIYGeek. Or you can try your hand at Adipose Plushies brought to you by the lovely folks at blog.craftzyne.com


Looking to game? Pick up a copy of Doctor Who: The eternity Clock at your local video game store. If you are like me and prefer the Table Top versions of games, head to your local comic book store ( In my case, Matt's Calvacade of Comics ) and pick up the latest Doctor Who: Time Wars family board game.


Now lets talk decoration!


If you are not into the whole DIY Decorations you can purchase plenty of Doctor Who party decorations at http://www.squidoo.com/doctor-who-birthday-party but if DIY is your thing Pinterest has plenty of ideas for aprons, cakes, door covers, and much much more!


Now, just add plenty of friends and let the good times commence! 





Thursday, August 2, 2012

Proclaimers Raspberry Scones


Raspberry's and Scones are just as much a part of Scotland as the Rockin' 80's band The Proclaimers are. The Proclaimers, most commonly known for their song "I'm gonna be" ( I would walk 500 miles ), are  a Scottish band composed of identical twin brothers Charlie and Craig Reid. This scottish recipe is a tribute to their awesome music... Enjoy! 

Ingredients:
4 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup sugar
3/4 tsp. baking soda
2 1/2 tbsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt
1 cup butter ( Cold, cubed ) 
1 cup sour cream 
dash of milk
2 pints raspberries ( fresh )
Additional sugar for dipping ( I like to use vanilla sugar, found at specialty spice store ) 

Directions:
Mix together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. 

Work in butter until mixture resembles coarse meal.

 Add sour cream and just enough milk to make dough into a soft mixture. ( not too wet )

 Gently fold in berries. Spoon dough into 3-ounce pieces. ( about 1/3 cup ) 

Dip tops in sugar and place on greased cookie sheet. 

Bake at 325°F until golden brown – approximately 8 to 10 minutes.

Serve with a nice cup of tea and some good scottish music! 



Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Doctor Who Companion Cookies


These yummy cookies are almost as sweet as the companions themselves! Serve these at a Doctor Who party as a fun activity to decorate! You can also use the recipe to cut out other Doctor Who themed bits such a daleks, the TARDIS, Ood communication devices, or whatever else your heart(s) desire! If you don't have doctor who cookie cutters make your own by simply cutting out a picture of the item you want, placing it over the flattened dough, and using a small sharp pairing knife, cutting around the edges of the picture to create the shape of your item. Decorate accordingly...Enjoy! 


Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 egg
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt


Directions: 


Preheat the oven to 400°F.


In a mixing bowl, cream butter with sugar until light and fluffy. 


Beat in egg and vanilla. Mix flour, baking powder and salt; add to the butter mixture 1 cup at a time, mixing after each addition.


 Do not chill the dough. Divide the dough into 2 balls. On a floured surface, roll each ball into a circle ( approximately 12 in. wide and 1/8 in. thick ) 


**NOTE** 
don’t make them thicker than this or your cutout may lose its shape during baking


 Dip cookie cutters in flour before each use. Bake cookies on ungreased cookie sheet 6-7 minutes or until cookies are lightly browned.


Allow to cool completely then decorate with royal icing. 




Ingredients for Royal Icing:
1 large egg white
1 1/3 cup sifted powdered sugar, divided
food coloring 
sprinkles, dragees, small candies,etc. ( For decoration ) 


Directions:
In a microwave-safe bowl, stir egg white and 2/3 cup sifted powdered sugar until thoroughly combined.

Microwave on high until the mixture reaches 160°F on an instant-read thermometer (it should not exceed 175°F), 30 to 60 seconds.


**NOTE** 
 If you need to take more than one temperature reading, wash the thermometer thoroughly or dip it into a mug of boiling water before taking additional readings.


Add the remaining 2/3 cup of sifted powdered sugar and beat on high speed until the icing is cool and holds stiff peaks. If the icing is not stiff enough, add more powdered sugar.


Color, if desired, with food coloring (the color will intensify as the icing stands). 


The icing can be stored in a covered container for up to 3 days; press a piece of wax or parchment paper directly against the surface to prevent drying. The icing can be rebeaten if necessary. 


To pipe, use a small pastry bag fitted with a fine tip, or cut off the corner of a sealable plastic bag or the tip of a parchment paper cone.


 Best served with a tall glass of milk and decorated plenty of Dragees or as the Doctor liked to call them "Edible ball bearings" 


Are you a Doctor Who fan? Tell us what you loved most about decorating these fun cookies in the comment section! 

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Sonic Screwdriver


This bright blue concoction is sweet and fruity. Perfect for sipping on while mingling with friends... Enjoy! 


Ingredients:
1 oz blue curaçao
1 oz light rum
1 oz cream of coconut
2 oz pineapple juice
1 cherry
1 slice of pineapple
1 cup of ice


Directions:
Put all ingredients into blender.


 Blend. Pour into highball glass. 


Add a cherry and pineapple to garnish.






Monday, July 30, 2012

Tauntaun Tomato Salad


Perfect summer salad, toss in some fresh mozzerella to make it a caprese inspired dish... Enjoy! 


Ingredients: 
4 Large Heirloom Tomatoes ( Vine Ripened, Cut in wedges )
1/4 cup Basil ( chopped ) 
2 tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil ( Use a high end Olive Oil )  
1 tbsp. Lemon Juice
1 tsp. Lemon Zest
1 tsp. fresh cracked pepper
1/2 tsp. Smoked Sea Salt 


In a medium bowl, whisk together oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and pepper. Toss tomatoes and basil in vinaigrette and garnish with a light sprinkling of smoked salt. 


Best served along side tatooine carmalized onion & Chioggia beet tart or a grilled component with plenty of white wine and lots of love! 


What would you pair this dish with? We would love to hear about it in the comment section below! 

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Tatooine Caramelized Onion & Chioggia beet Tart


Planning a romantic weekend for your princess leia? woo her with this delicious tart along side some Tauntaun Tomato Salad and prepare for some sweet sweet Star Wars lovin! 


One of the things that I love most about this dish is the Chioggia beet. To me Chioggia beet resembles Jogan fruit. Jogan fruit was featured during a banquet in the honor of Senator Aang hosted by senator Padmé Amidala on Coruscant. It is a small round purple fruit with a striping pattern much like the Chioggia beet!
... Enjoy! 


Ingredients for Filling: 
2 Large Walla Walla Onions ( Peeled and Sliced ) 
2 Chioggia Beet ( Sliced Thin ) 
6 oz. Goat Cheese ( separated into pieces, I like to use bleu cheese as well ) 
1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil 
1 lemon ( Juiced )  
1 tbsp. Rosemary ( Fresh, Chopped Fine ) 
1 tsp. Garlic Paste 
1/2 tsp. Sea Salt
2 tsp. Fresh Cracked Pepper 
1 tsp. Smoked Sea Salt 
1 tbsp. Butter
dash of sugar 
splash marsala


Ingredients for Tartlet: 
3 oz. Cream Cheese ( softened ) 
1/2 cup Butter ( Softened ) 
1 cup all-purpose flour


Directions


Blend cream cheese and butter or margarine. Stir in flour just until blended. Chill about 1 hour.


**NOTE** 
This can be made ahead and chilled for up to 24 hours.


While Tartlet dough is chilling prepare filling; 


In a small bowl whisk together Olive Oil, Lemon Juice, 1/2 tsp. Sea Salt, 1 tsp. Fresh Cracked Pepper, Garlic and Rosemary. 


Pour Vinaigrette into a large ziplock bag. Place Beets in bag and allow to marinate for 1 hour or until carmalized onions are done. 


Start by taking 1 tbsp. butter and melting over medium low heat. Place onions in pan and sprinkle with a dash of sugar. ( About 1/2 tsp. )


Cook over low heat for about 45 minutes or until onions are soft and golden brown, stirring frequently to ensure that onions cook evenly. De-glaze pan with a splash of Marsala and remove from heat. 


Preheat oven to 400


Shape dough i press into ungreased Tart Shell


Take beet and place in the bottom of tartlette shell. in a single layer.  ( Don't be surprised if you don't use all of the beet ) Then spread carmalized onion over over beats. drizzle 1 tbsp. of the marinade over the onions and bake for 45 minutes or until crust appears to be finished. 


Remove from oven, top with pieces of goat cheese, garnish with toasted pine nuts and some finely chopped fresh rosemary. 


Best served with a nice glass of champagne and a side of Tauntaun Tomato Salad. 

Saturday, July 28, 2012

Captain Jack


Ingredients:
1/2 oz. Captain Morgans ( Rum )
1/2 oz. Jack Daniels ( Whiskey )
1 Maraschino Cherry

In a single shot glass, pour whiskey and rum.

Place single maraschino cherry in shot glass.

Drink shot, eat cherry!


Super Mario Mushroom soup


This Soup is just what you need to power up for a long night of epic gaming! Serve this rich and creamy soup up to your friends and prepare a long night of Nintendo Madness... Enjoy! 


Ingredients:
2 Cup fresh Crimini Mushrooms ( cleaned chopped ) 
1 Tsp. Finely Chopped Tarragon
6 Tbsp. Butter
2/3 Cup Flour
2 Quarts Mushroom Stock ( I buy mine from Trader Joe's ) 
1 Cup Half & Half  
Salt & Pepper 


 Directions: 


Lightly saute mushrooms and seasonings in butter.  


Add flour and stir constantly for about 5 minutes. This will create a rue to thicken the cream. 


Slowly add stock, stirring frequently making sure there is no lumps. 


Once all stock is added, simmer about 10 minutes. 


Stir in cream, salt and pepper to taste and serve. 


Best Served with a tall Root Beer Floater Cocktail, plenty of friends, and some Super Mario Brothers. 




Friday, July 27, 2012

Batman: Arkham Party

Batman: Arkham Party

Check out this link to plan your next batman party! 
...Enjoy!  

Bun in the Oven Vanilla Surprise Cupcakes


These scrumptious little cupcakes would be perfect to feature at your friends next baby shower! The cupcake is warm and sweet just like a mothers love. The berry gives this little confection a bite of freshness and vitality. To compliment these cupcakes I use a light and airy italian butter cream frosting... Enjoy! 

Ingredients: 
1/2 Cup Butter ( Unsalted, Softened ) 
2/3 Cup Coconut Sugar
3 Eggs ( Large, Farm Fresh ) 
1 Tsp. Vanilla ( The Real Stuff! ) 
1 1/2 Cups Flour ( All- Purpose ) 
1 1/2 Tsp. Baking Powder 
1/4 Tsp. Salt 
1/4 Cup Milk ( You can also use an alternative milk product such as soy, almond, coconut, etc. ) 
12 Blackberries

Directions For Cupcakes:

Preheat the oven to 350°. Line a muffin tin with 12 paper liners. Set pan aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides and beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract. 

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. 

With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the flour mixture and milk, in 3 small batches at a time, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. 

 Scrape down the sides of the bowl and evenly fill the muffin cups two-thirds full with the batter. 

Place a single blackberry in the center of the cupcake pushing it down slightly so that the batter will rise over it. 

**NOTE**
You can fill these fabulous cupcakes with just about anything! Berries, chocolate, candy, sprinkles, etc. I like to switch it up and put raspberries, chocolate covered espresso beans, caramel filled chocolate candies, candy coated almonds, the possibilities are endless!  

Bake for about 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 

Remove from the oven and allow to cool in pan 5 minutes. Transfer cupcakes to a wire rack and allow to cool completely. While Cupcakes are cooling prepare frosting. 

Ingredients for Italian Butter Cream Frosting: 
1 Cup Sugar ( I prefer to use a white refined sugar in this case ) 
1/4 Cup Water
1/2 Cup Egg Whites
pinch of salt
1 1/4 Cups Butter ( Use a high quality butter as it will have a prominent taste in the frosting. ) 
1 1/4 tsp. Vanilla Extract ( The good stuff ) 
optional: liqueur of your choice–just a splash or two; you don’t want your buttercream to be too loose.

Directions for Frosting:

Bring the sugar and water to a boil in a small saucepan. Cover with a lid allow to boil for 2-3 minutes, Remove the lid and cook the sugar to 244 degrees, F.

While your syrup is boiling, whip the whites and salt on medium speed of your stand mixer to soft peaks. ( This is all about timing, so watch them carefully because if you overbeat your egg whites before your syrup reaches temperature, they’ll be grainy and gross )

 **NOTE** 
Adjust the speed of the mixer up or down and try and get your whites to the perfect consistency at the same time your sugar reaches 244F.

When the syrup is ready, with mixer on medium low, pour syrup in a thin stream down the inside of the mixing bowl. 

This will give the syrup a chance to cool off a bit as well as keeping the syrup from getting spun all over the sides of the mixer by the whisk attachment.

Turn mixer to high and whip until whites are completely cool and hold firm peaks.

Add the softened butter, a bit at a time making sure one addition is blended in before adding the next. Once egg whites are incorporated, beat in vanilla. 

Spoon frosting into a piping bag and pipe the cool cupcakes. Garnish with vanilla sugar, toasted coconut, lemon zest, a mint leave, or whatever your heart desires... Enjoy!

Best served with a nice cup of tea and plenty of friends! 

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Robot Chicken & Spicy dumplings

Although I truly loathe the show Robot Chicken. I find this dish to be oddly complimentary to the shows concept. These spicy dumplings add some flare to an all too traditional dish. Such as Robot Chickens take on a childlike Clay-mation series and setting it into an adult themed show. The warm and smoky broth ignites the fiery heat of these dumplings such as, of the overly apparent controversy brought on by this shows peculiar characters and plots convolution. 


Stew Ingredients: 
2 chicken quarters ( Fresh or Frozen ) 
2 small onions ( Chopped, I used walla walla sweets ) 
4 cloves garlic ( minced ) 
1 jalapeno ( Seeded and minced ) 
4 carrots ( chunked ) 
5 crimini mushrooms ( sliced ) 
4 red potatoes ( chunked ) 
1 tbsp. basil 
2 tsp. salt and pepper 
1 tbsp. Herbs de Provence 
1 tsp. oregano 
2 Bay leaves 
1 tsp. Paprika
1 quart water 


Spicy dumpling recipe: 
2 cups flour
1 tsp. baking powder 
1 tbsp. Sriracha 
1 tsp. salt 
1 tsp. Chile garlic paste  
Cold water 


Directions for Stew: 
place all ingredients except mushrooms and potatoes in crock pot. stir so veggies and herbs are well mixed.  


Place heat on high and cook for 4-5 hours.


Remove Chicken and shred it with a fork then place mushrooms and potatoes in stew and allow to continue cooking until potatoes are cooked through. 




Once potatoes are cooked add dumplings. 




Directions for Dumplings: 
Mix dry ingredients, then create a well. Slowly add cold water and mix well with hands until dough is almost sticky. 


Add sriracha and mix through dough. 


Drop dough by spoonfuls onto the stew, cover with lid and allow to steam until fluffy and cooked through. 


Best served with a nice pale ale and a good card game with friends. 





Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Kung Fu Kirimochi with Ginger Infused Soy Sauce Served over micro-greens

Mochi , is an overall term for Japanese rice cake which is made of glutinous rice pounded into paste and molded into shape. In Japan it is traditionally made in a ceremony called mochitsuki as a festive food for Japanese New Year. Meanwhile it is also available all year round but they are machine cut and not hand pounded, known as Kirimochi.


Ingredients: 
1-2 pieces kirimochi
1 Tbsp. Honey 
1 Tbsp. Sesame Seeds ( Toasted ) 
1 small piece ginger root 
2 tbsp. Soy Sauce 
1 cup micro greens 


Gently rub Kirimochi with ginger and Place in a small ungreased non stick pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides and double in size. 


Arrange micro-greens on a plate in a small pile in the center of the plate and place Kirimochi over greens. drizzle kirimochi with greens and sprinkle on the sesame seeds. 


Take the ginger root and grate 1/2 tsp. into the soy sauce. Discard remaining ginger. 


Stir together the ginger and the soy sauce and lightly drizzle over Kirimochi, allowing a bit of it to drip onto the micro-greens. 


Best Served with a nice Sake and a good Kung Fu Movie with that special someone for a nice date night in.



Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Chewy Chewbacca Chocolate Chunk Coconut Cookies

These nutty, chewy, and wholesome cookies are packed with flavor and texture. Perfect for sharing with friends or just indulging on the couch with a good movie...Enjoy! 
 
1/2 Cup Coconut Oil 
1/2 Cup Coconut Sugar
1/2 Cup Honey
1 Egg ( Beaten ) 
1 Cup Oats ( Quick Cooking, not old fashioned ) 
1 Cup Whole Wheat Flour
1/2 Tsp. Baking Soda
1/2 Tsp. Baking Powder 
1/4 Tsp. Salt
1 1/2 Tsp. Vanilla
1/2 Cup Macadamia Nuts ( Chopped ) 
1 Cup Coconut ( Toasted, Shredded )  
1/2 Cup Dark Chocolate Chunks 


Cream Coconut Oil and Coconut Sugar. Add the Honey and Egg and combine. 


 Add all dry ingredients, mix until just combined. 


Add vanilla, chopped nuts, and coconut, mix well. 


Drop dough onto cookie sheets lined with parchment paper. 


Bake at 375°F for 10-14 minutes or until dough is set and lightly golden around the edges. 


Best Served with a tall glass of milk and a good movie. 

Monday, July 23, 2012

Deep Purple Berry Infused Vodka Lemonade

I love serving this drink on hot summer days. These fruity concoctions are perfect for novice drinkers as the lemonade makes the vodka almost impossible to taste. With that said, although I recommend using a higher quality vodka, if it is not in your budget this is one of those drinks that can tolerate a lower quality liquor... Enjoy!


Ingredients:
1 cup Berry ( I like to use a mix of blackberries and blueberries )
1 cup Vodka
1 cup Simple Syrup ( 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, heated until dissolved and allowed to chill )
1 cup lemon juice
2 quarts water


In a small bowl add vodka and berries. Allow to sit for at least a few hours ( I like to soak mine overnight ).


Once vodka has been infused, pour mixture into a large pitcher. Add lemon juice and water and stir.


Pour half of the simple syrup mixture in. Stir and taste. If it is sweet enough for your taste, discard remaining syrup. If not, add remaining syrup in small batches tasting frequently as to not over sweeten.


Best served over ice with some coconut cake and your best gal pals!





Sunday, July 22, 2012

Yoda's Creamy Avocado Ranch Dressing


Perfect for summer, this recipe is! Creamy, flavorful, and low fat, serve this recipe at your next ladies night as a veggie dip or on top of taco salads...Enjoy! 


Ingredients: 
1 cup Almond Milk ( Unsweetened ) 
1/2 Lemon  ( Juiced, roughly ¼ Cup)
1 Tbsp raw apple cider vinegar
1 ripe avocado ( Cut into chunks ) 
2 clove garlic ( Minced ) 
 ¼ Cup Fresh Chive ( Minced ) 
 ¼ cup fresh dill ( Minced ) 
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp pepper


Place all ingredients in food processor, blend until smooth, and allow to chill.


Best Served over salads, as a veggie dip, on baked potatoes, or as a spread on sandwiches. 

Saturday, July 21, 2012

Emerald Eyes Avocado Breakfast Bowls

These delicious little bowls are perfect for those mornings when you want a hot home made breakfast but you  are short on time. The possibilities for toppings on these avocados are endless, sprinkle with chorizo, spoon on some salsa, or just enjoy as is! These Avocado breakfast bowls are healthy, endulgent, and simple to make... Enjoy! 


Ingredients: 
2 Avocados ( Halved  and Pitted ) 
4 eggs ( Farm Fresh ) 
Sea Salt & Fresh Cracked Pepper ( to taste ) 

Topping Ideas: 
salsa
bacon bits
cilantro 
chorizo 




Place halved Avocados on baking sheet. Crack egg into hole of avocado, sprinkle with salt and pepper and bake at 400 for 10 minutes or until eggs are desired done-ness. Remove from oven, top with desired ingredients and enjoy! 


Best served with a tall glass of juice and a side of fruit. 



Monday, July 16, 2012

Back in Black-Berry Banana Oat Muffins


These wonderful muffins are the perfect on-the-go breakfast. They are filling, flavorful, and fruity. I like to make these using a myriad of berries, anything from raspberries and blueberries to strawberries and Marion berries... Enjoy! 




2 mashed bananas
1 1/2 cup yogurt ( I like to use vanilla flavored )
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup canola oil
1 1/2 cups quick cooking oats
2 cups all purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
4 tsp baking powder
3 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 cup frozen blackberries ( You can also use other berries ) 


Preheat oven to 375


In a large bowl combine mashed banana, yogurt, brown sugar, egg and oil.


Add oats and allow to sit for 5-10 minutes then combine the dry ingredients.


**Note** 
Although Old Fashioned Oats provide more fiber, quick oats will absorb moisture faster so they work best in baking. 


Add the blackberries and dry ingredients to wet and stir until just combined.


Scoop into a paper lined muffin tin and bake for 15-20 minutes or until tops are firm to touch.


Best served slightly warm with a nice glass of fresh squeezed Orange Juice! 






Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Foreigner's Hot Blooded Chile Avocado brownies



Are you hot blooded?  do you gotta'  fever of a hundred and three? 
Well these Sweet, spicy, and indulgent brownies will warm that blood and because we replaced butter and vegetable oil with Avocado you'll be able to do more than dance! These brownies lack the calories but certainly not the flavor...enjoy! 






Ingredients:
2 very ripe Avocado’s ( sliced with pit removed. ) 
3/4 cup Coconut sugar ( White Sugar works too ) 
2 Eggs ( Farm Fresh work best! ) 
1 tsp Vanilla Extract ( Use the real stuff, it's worth the money! ) 
2 tbsp. Freshly brewed coffee. cooled ( Optional )
1/3 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1 cup + 1 tsp. Whole Wheat Flour
1/4 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Baking Powder
1/2 tsp. Cayenne Powder
1/2 cup Dark Chocolate Chunks 




Directions:


Preheat oven to 350F. 


Grease and lightly flour 8x8 baking pan. 


In a large bowl, add sliced very ripe avocado’s and mash avocado’s until smooth.


**NOTE** 
The great thing about using avocado in the recipe is that you won't actually taste the avocado but it will make the brownies taste creamier. 


Add sugar. Using a Spatula, mix to incorporate.


Add eggs, vanilla extract & coffee. Gently fold everything together ( Do not whisk ). 


**NOTE**
The coffee is optional but the reason for putting it in there is that it will bring out the flavors of the chocolate in the brownie and help them to stand out. 


In a separate medium bowl, combine all dry ingredients: cocoa powder, 1 cup whole wheat flour, salt & baking powder.


Add dry ingredient into wet ingredients. Gently stir just till it combines. Again, do not over-mix.


In a small bowl coat chocolate chunks in 1 tsp. Whole wheat flour and gently fold chocolate into brownie batter. 


Transfer batter into baking pan, spreading batter evenly toward the edges of pan.


Bake for 25 to 30 minutes.


Remove pan and allow to cool completely. Best served with a tall glass of milk and some good classic rock! 




Thursday, July 5, 2012

Futurama's Bender Beer Pancakes




My mom made beer pancakes for breakfast once when I was a kid and since then I have been hooked. ( Don't worry, the beer cooks out! ) I am missing her a lot today so here's to you mom, I love you and miss you more than you know...Enjoy! 


Ingredients:
1 cup  flour ( Sifted, all-purpose ) 
1/4 cup sugar ( White, coconut, raw, or whatever you prefer. ) 
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tsp. Cinnamon
1 tbsp. Maple Syrup
1 egg, beaten
1 cup beer ( I like to use a simple full flavor Budweiser ) 
2 tablespoons butter, melted


In a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the egg, beer, syrup, and melted butter; whisk just until blended ( A few lumps are alright ) 


Heat your griddle or skillet over medium heat (for electric griddles  350 degrees)  


Spoon about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface for each pancake. When bubbles appear  around the edge of the pancake and don't fill back up with batter flip and cook until browned on the other side.


Best served with a side of Pepper Bacon and a nice warm campfire. 

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Big Bang Theory Beer & BBQ Beef Sandwiches




Although you probably won't find Sheldon Cooper Mowing one of these bad boys down any time soon. This fabulous recipe is great for gatherings like today. Wishing everyone a glorious independence day...Enjoy! 


3 lbs lean chuck roast 
1 small red onion ( Thinly sliced ) 
1 1/2 cups ketchup
1/2 cup Pale Ale 
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp spicy mustard
1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1tbsp. soy sauce
1 tsp. liquid smoke flavoring
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground black pepper
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. cumin


In a small bowl combine all ingredients except onion and roast. 
Whisk well and set aside. Place roast in crock pot. Cover with sliced onions. 


Pour Sauce over onions and roast. Cover and allow to cook on low for 8-10 hours.


 Remove roast, shred meat. Place shredded meat back in crock pot; stir to coat well. Spoon barbecued beef onto toasted sandwich buns and serve with extra sauce, if desired.


Best Served with a heaping pile of coleslaw, an ice cold beer, and plenty of friends! 




Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Nice Spice Fried Rice

First, let me start off by saying that this is not a traditional fried rice recipe. I made this the other night in a desperation for anything closely resembling chinese food. I however, have made this recipe before and stuffed it into bell peppers and it was equally delicious in that too. I love this recipe because it is quick, easy, and delicious! ... Enjoy! 




Ingredients:
1/2 lb. ground meat ( turkey, beef, etc ) 
1/2 small red onion ( Chopped ) 
3 cloves garlic ( Minced ) 
1 tsp. ginger paste 
1 jalapeno ( Minced ) 
1 egg ( Scrambled ) 
1 cup rice 
1 3/4 cups water + 1 tbsp. 
3 tbsp. soy sauce + 1 tbsp. 


In a small sauce pan add water and 3 tbsp. soy sauce. Add rice and bring to boil. Once rice is boiling, cover, and reduce to simmer for 15 minutes. Once rice is finished cooking fluff with fork and set aside. 

In a saute pan add meat, onion, garlic, ginger, jalapeno, and 1 tbsp. Soy Sauce. Cook until meat is brown and cooked through. Once meat is finished cooking. Add rice. Cook rice in pan for 3 minutes then move mixture to side of pan. In the empty space of the pan add egg. Stir continuously in the empty space to scramble the egg and avoid sticking to the pan. Once egg is scrambled mix into the rice mixture and serve. 


Saturday, June 30, 2012

Nacho Mama's Nachos!


Yo' Mama' ain't got nothin' on these Fiesty and fun nachos! Why, do you ask? Well that is simple. Yo' Mama would probably use all the traditional stuff, cheese, chips, olives, maybe some beans and beef! Oh no, no, no, my friend! These are not your every day nachos! These nachos scream with flavor and in some respects aren't even nachos at all! They are nacho loaded fries! That's ok, ill give you a minute to mentally absorb the awesomeness that is going on in your mind right now...... finished? Perfect! Let's not waste any more time on this silly nonsense, now let's get down to business...Enjoy! 


Ingredients: 
1 bag frozen crinkly cut fries ( I like to use sweet potato fries but regular are just as good! ) 
1/2 lb. ground turkey
1/2 small onion ( Chopped small ) 
3 cloves garlic ( minced ) 
1 jalapeno ( Seeded & minced ) 
Taco Seasoning ( I prefer to make my own but those little packet things work too ) 
1 can beans ( use your favorite, black, red, pinto, re-fried... I like re-fried black beans personally! )
1 cup shredded cheese ( mexican blend ) 
2 tbsp. Cilantro ( Finely Chopped ) 
lime wedges 
hot sauce 
olives, jalapeno rings, tomato, avocado, salsa, sour cream, guacamole ( optional toppings ) 


Bake bag of fries as directed on packaging until crispy. While fries are baking, cook ground turkey in sautee pan with onion, garlic, jalapeno, and taco seasoning until browned and cooked through. 


Once fries are finished cooking remove from oven and place fries in a casserole dish. scatter beans and meat mixture on top of fries. Top with cheese and bake until cheese is melted. 


Remove from oven, sprinkle with cilantro, add toppings of your choice and mow down! Best served with some good Mexican Beer, some of your awesome college buddies, and that awesome Johnny Depp movie "Once upon a time in Mexico" 

Doctor Who-sier Pie




Let's start things off by thanking the wonderful wonderful people at www.turkeycreeklane.com for their authentic hoosier pie recipe! That's right folks, this is not my recipe. I had recently heard of hoosier pie ( also known as sugar cream pie ) and it sounded so delicious I had to find what appeared to me, to be the most authentic and traditional recipe. After hours of scourging through the depths of the intranets I discovered this! Being the spice nut I am though I would add a smidge of nutmeg and cardamom to this recipe, maybe a dash of cinnamon too!... Enjoy! 


REAL HOOSIER CREAM SUGAR PIE


¼ Cup white sugar


1/4 cup brown sugar


1 generous tablespoon butter


1 egg yolk


2 heaping tablespoons flour


1 pinch salt”


Milk or Cream (1-1 ½ cups…enough to fill pie shell)


 Preheat oven to 410 degrees. 


Mix brown and white sugar with flour. 


Sprinkle flour/sugar mixture over pie crust. Beat egg yolk with milk. Fill pie shell. 


Take a spoon and swirl it through the milk mixture a couple of times. Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg.


Bake at 410 degrees for 10 minutes.Then bake at 350 for 45 minutes. The filling should be bubbling. The center should still jiggle. Be careful not to overcook or the filling will not set.


Do you have a favorite traditional Amish dish? Tell us about it in the comment section below!