No matter what time year it is – fall|winter “spice season,” or sunny spring|summer “fresh citrus” season, we all enjoy a touch of sweet spice in our life. Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves: we need this comfort and warmth in our hearts and bellies all the time. Gifted with the reverence and beauty of Hopi…
Read More
While we are still experiencing the lingering heat of the summer season, the hankering for iced lemonade and peach ice cream, the spicy scents of fall are just around the corner.Soon it will be time for ginger and molasses – yes, that’s right!So, to unite the two seasons and bring our lingering thoughts of sunshine…
Read More
It’s Mandarin Orange Season – “Cutie” Season, in my neck of the woods.You need to try this cake. It’s moist, tender, and packed full of vibrant orange flavor. Twelve WHOLE Mandarin oranges (in full form) – yes, 12, go into the the cake batter, creating a sweet and tangy slush, to be mixed with sweetened…
Read More
Yet again, not necessarily a disaster, but NOT what I’d hoped for.I was actually thinking about the NYT Iconic Plum Torte. It’s “iconic,” it’s famous, and sure to be delicious.But, in true form, I wanted to “Ashley-ify” it and make it my own. The Times published Marian Burros’s recipe for Plum Torte every September from…
Read More
Who needs chocolate when spiced cinnamon raisin vanilla goodies are around, right?Well, while you may or may not be a chocolate lover, you’ll love this cake! You really, REALLY will.It’s dense, moist, and flavorful enough that frosting isn’t even a requirement- thus, I “invented” a spiced vanilla whipped cream “frosting” for you. It’s truly amazing….
Read More
So, my dad really loves fruitcake. Me, not so much. But, I really love my dad. He requested Panettone this year, as well as a dense rum fruit cake. But, he was also dreaming of a friend’s version – with whom I cannot compete. When you grow up a gourmet foodie, have a mom who…
Read More
