When I lived in Australia, vegetable pasties were a favorite take-out food. We would have them with everything from a serving of fries, to a plate of vegetables or salad, or simply serve them with tomato sauce for dipping. They are one of the foods I had been missing most since moving overseas, so it encouraged me to start making them at home. The ones we have are generally individual hand-held pies, which are shaped like a half circle, however, I find this way, which looks similar to a Stromboli, to be much quicker and easier to do. It's also perfect for serving for family dinner, or when home entertaining. Guests can take as much (or as little) as they like, and the recipe below makes three. So if you don't use them all, freeze them for later, just remember to reheat in the oven as … [Read more...]
Bird’s Nest Cake for Easter
Easter is right around the corner! It's time to start thinking about what decadent and precious dessert you'll be whipping up for your friends and family. If you ask me, you should make this lovely little cake. It's the kind of super chocolatey that screams for a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt. In addition to being absolutely delicious, it's also too cute! You'll have all of the women oo-ing and ah-ing over it! Trust me. I did! Plus, they'll be in for a surprise when you cut the cake to reveal a vanilla chocolate chip frosting inside! Happy Easter and Happy Baking! Bird's Nest Cake adapted from Martha Stewart Ingredients canola oil spray 1/2 cup Hershey's Special Dark cocoa powder + some for dusting 2 sticks unsalted butter 1 tablespoon instant espresso … [Read more...]
Easter Cake Recipe
I still can’t believe that Easter is in March this year, I always think of March as the month of Women’s day in Italy (8th of March) and it’s a way too early for Easter eggs and bunnies! So I decided to decorate my traditional carrot Easter cake with mimosas (typical flowers women are given on the 8th of March in Italy) to bring together the two celebrations! This cake is extra light and moist and it’s perfect for family parties. The frosting is very simple but blood orange juice pairs really well with the carrots, I also don’t add any butter because I like my frosting light, but you can use your usual cream cheese frosting recipe if you wish to. I used two 6 inch round pans (plus a 7 inches square pan for the extra batter) but I think it can be baked in two 8 inches round … [Read more...]
Eggcellent Dyed Deviled Eggs for Easter!
Hoppy Easter, ya'll! I am so excited for this time of year to be here already. I love all the beautiful spring colors all around, the lovely flowers in bloom and not to mention lots and lots of candy to be eaten! When I am not dreaming of chocolate, I am doing my best to consider other food groups that can be delicious, as well for a fun time with family and friends. One of my favorite party dishes is deviled eggs. Not only are the pretty quick to whip up, they are also usually guaranteed to please any crowd. I am positive that all your guests will absolutely love this fun finger food and keep coming back for more! For this dyed deviled egg recipe, I want to put a spin on your traditional ingredients as well as make the Easter bunny proud with some fun colors. They are all the fun of … [Read more...]
Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe with Bob’s Red Mill
This blog post has been sponsored by Bob’s Red Mill, but all opinions are my own, and this recipe is kid-tested and approved so give it a try. Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins are sure to make them smile. I have a gluten-free child. He doesn't have Celiac disease, his body just cannot process gluten. The transition from regular flours, breads, and treats has been a long and sometimes difficult one for not only him, but my other children too with me often having to make two separate dishes. He misses certain foods, and finds the taste of some gluten-free foods unappealing. So I'm constantly experimenting in the kitchen trying to come up with recipes that not only he loves, but that my other kids love too. And I've found one that has quickly become a big hit for after … [Read more...]
Lucky Guinness Chocolate Cake Shake
The Irish are not the only ones feeling so very lucky this St. Patrick's Day! "Why,pour" you ask? Well get ready for this four-leaf clover-like surprise. I am sharing a craving-satisfying chocolate cake, immersed in creamy and cool ice cream with a delicious dash of Guinness beer recipe! You will be ready to play the lottery once you see how lucky you are that it is quick to make, too. So, are you ready for some quick and delicious fun to get this cake shake St. Paddy's day party started? Then, let's get our ingredients together and meet after we kiss the blarney stone! First, I am starting out with the chocolate cake recipe so it has time to cool. To save some time and make it extra easy for this amazing holiday, I used ChocolateandCarrots' post that I found here on Blissfully … [Read more...]
