tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51853854103490077042023-06-05T09:00:57.129-07:00AskanamMy kitchenAskanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-84829412249100599052013-01-25T19:05:00.004-08:002013-01-25T19:05:53.851-08:00Making beach themed cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Yy3HnTD3Ig/UQNGJtMJneI/AAAAAAAAGD8/DIXcw-I6eos/s1600/IMG_0443.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="https://www.etsy.com/listing/121595703/summer-at-the-beach-sugar-cookies" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Yy3HnTD3Ig/UQNGJtMJneI/AAAAAAAAGD8/DIXcw-I6eos/s640/IMG_0443.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand and sun decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5zaTXJ-owU/UQNGDPFeeMI/AAAAAAAAGCM/1El4Rm_LbKs/s1600/IMG_0362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand and sun decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v5zaTXJ-owU/UQNGDPFeeMI/AAAAAAAAGCM/1El4Rm_LbKs/s640/IMG_0362.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand and sun decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IhqdjWDXvT4/UQNGDjCSAEI/AAAAAAAAGCQ/0KjRySf2Iv8/s1600/IMG_0364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IhqdjWDXvT4/UQNGDjCSAEI/AAAAAAAAGCQ/0KjRySf2Iv8/s640/IMG_0364.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SsEj65Jugek/UQNGDp_OirI/AAAAAAAAGCU/y493jW3z6ZU/s1600/IMG_0370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SsEj65Jugek/UQNGDp_OirI/AAAAAAAAGCU/y493jW3z6ZU/s640/IMG_0370.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYcbI-VcMzg/UQNGEtV41TI/AAAAAAAAGCg/SfPDJ4vSqMo/s1600/IMG_0374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYcbI-VcMzg/UQNGEtV41TI/AAAAAAAAGCg/SfPDJ4vSqMo/s640/IMG_0374.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IkhCRWMS4uY/UQNGE5wFFVI/AAAAAAAAGCk/C4PIiMV2RR0/s1600/IMG_0376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IkhCRWMS4uY/UQNGE5wFFVI/AAAAAAAAGCk/C4PIiMV2RR0/s640/IMG_0376.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ItxvHevHog/UQNGE8X2h0I/AAAAAAAAGCo/WCecJlZXPnM/s1600/IMG_0381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2ItxvHevHog/UQNGE8X2h0I/AAAAAAAAGCo/WCecJlZXPnM/s640/IMG_0381.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5Y7tGsG_KA/UQNGFhDiO3I/AAAAAAAAGCw/9eDGWlOx28Q/s1600/IMG_0385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5Y7tGsG_KA/UQNGFhDiO3I/AAAAAAAAGCw/9eDGWlOx28Q/s640/IMG_0385.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivTFB7rm3HE/UQNGGqRp0xI/AAAAAAAAGDA/d0VDh2s5esw/s1600/IMG_0387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivTFB7rm3HE/UQNGGqRp0xI/AAAAAAAAGDA/d0VDh2s5esw/s640/IMG_0387.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-stlEhHO7WEI/UQNGHN92zpI/AAAAAAAAGDM/A719KcPxbrs/s1600/IMG_0407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-stlEhHO7WEI/UQNGHN92zpI/AAAAAAAAGDM/A719KcPxbrs/s640/IMG_0407.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dcA1a1YLB08/UQNGHq-CVHI/AAAAAAAAGDU/QfhM2NnzwLc/s1600/IMG_0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dcA1a1YLB08/UQNGHq-CVHI/AAAAAAAAGDU/QfhM2NnzwLc/s640/IMG_0410.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YnSu08mT95s/UQNGH8prZjI/AAAAAAAAGDY/kZTiEOIDRFE/s1600/IMG_0412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YnSu08mT95s/UQNGH8prZjI/AAAAAAAAGDY/kZTiEOIDRFE/s640/IMG_0412.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9azSf_qRHXg/UQNGIHqakeI/AAAAAAAAGDc/kOzVzEro-vI/s1600/IMG_0425.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9azSf_qRHXg/UQNGIHqakeI/AAAAAAAAGDc/kOzVzEro-vI/s640/IMG_0425.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wt4PJObfE8g/UQNGI_Lgn9I/AAAAAAAAGDo/CsGpUfaDHF0/s1600/IMG_0429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wt4PJObfE8g/UQNGI_Lgn9I/AAAAAAAAGDo/CsGpUfaDHF0/s640/IMG_0429.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sirtdHJY0nw/UQNGJSgiyLI/AAAAAAAAGD0/XdIK0_x6GgM/s1600/IMG_0441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sirtdHJY0nw/UQNGJSgiyLI/AAAAAAAAGD0/XdIK0_x6GgM/s640/IMG_0441.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b-450Y6o3cU/UQNGJJLTXcI/AAAAAAAAGD4/4zWzYOWcxtg/s1600/IMG_0437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b-450Y6o3cU/UQNGJJLTXcI/AAAAAAAAGD4/4zWzYOWcxtg/s640/IMG_0437.JPG" title="Beach, sea, sand, sun and starfish decorated sugar cookies by askanam, available on Etsy" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-13108357003646689362013-01-10T18:25:00.000-08:002013-01-10T18:25:17.985-08:00Getting ready for Valentine's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-URA82Jn8-Fk/UO92kiKURnI/AAAAAAAAGAg/hvGSTOWtzV0/s1600/IMG_0967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-URA82Jn8-Fk/UO92kiKURnI/AAAAAAAAGAg/hvGSTOWtzV0/s640/IMG_0967.JPG" title="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gwFx-hVg1rg/UO92nBBKGJI/AAAAAAAAGA4/syn89B3Qz5E/s1600/IMG_0975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gwFx-hVg1rg/UO92nBBKGJI/AAAAAAAAGA4/syn89B3Qz5E/s640/IMG_0975.JPG" title="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmHsbeEj-ts/UO92mA_KR2I/AAAAAAAAGAs/KnYIM_ulEKw/s1600/IMG_0973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fmHsbeEj-ts/UO92mA_KR2I/AAAAAAAAGAs/KnYIM_ulEKw/s640/IMG_0973.JPG" title="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1n7jSGFmFJE/UO92lKEtcAI/AAAAAAAAGAw/K-QKJUslB8s/s1600/IMG_0971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1n7jSGFmFJE/UO92lKEtcAI/AAAAAAAAGAw/K-QKJUslB8s/s640/IMG_0971.JPG" title="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oIjH2WB7mc4/UO92jopZyfI/AAAAAAAAGAY/e9OUssm9-4E/s1600/IMG_0952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oIjH2WB7mc4/UO92jopZyfI/AAAAAAAAGAY/e9OUssm9-4E/s640/IMG_0952.JPG" title="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7ULheVIVNQ/UO92lYJJR4I/AAAAAAAAGAo/K6LU1Iyt7Kg/s1600/IMG_0969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7ULheVIVNQ/UO92lYJJR4I/AAAAAAAAGAo/K6LU1Iyt7Kg/s640/IMG_0969.JPG" title="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ond4jX4UZOs/UO92j5bThRI/AAAAAAAAGAc/5Ks7y-blfZc/s1600/IMG_0961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ond4jX4UZOs/UO92j5bThRI/AAAAAAAAGAc/5Ks7y-blfZc/s640/IMG_0961.JPG" title="Valentine's Day mushroom pink sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yzNkPTtncPc/UO92nStxSBI/AAAAAAAAGA8/hFuEzOWMGY0/s1600/IMG_0981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yzNkPTtncPc/UO92nStxSBI/AAAAAAAAGA8/hFuEzOWMGY0/s640/IMG_0981.JPG" title="Valentine's Day sugar cookies by Askanam , order on www.etsy.com/shop/askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-8787597888573507872012-12-08T18:49:00.001-08:002012-12-08T18:49:54.111-08:00Happy Hanukkah!<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Here are some Hanukkah themed cookies I made. You can order them on my Etsy shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/116586365/hanukkah-cookies" target="_blank">here</a> .</span><div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G7i_uczIuR0/UMP7SUWXIgI/AAAAAAAAF-I/nNO7nQbHuEI/s1600/DSC05002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G7i_uczIuR0/UMP7SUWXIgI/AAAAAAAAF-I/nNO7nQbHuEI/s640/DSC05002.JPG" title="Hanukkah sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pXNRF41B6Qk/UMP7T7bbimI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/hOr29VGQcks/s1600/DSC05008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pXNRF41B6Qk/UMP7T7bbimI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/hOr29VGQcks/s640/DSC05008.JPG" title="Hanukkah sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-THzhUti8XFc/UMP7VuPZBiI/AAAAAAAAF-Y/x2sH1EsSaq4/s1600/DSC05011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-THzhUti8XFc/UMP7VuPZBiI/AAAAAAAAF-Y/x2sH1EsSaq4/s640/DSC05011.JPG" title="Hanukkah sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3WW3_sGJxCc/UMP6tD3Gq2I/AAAAAAAAF9c/6i4DamyuEfM/s1600/DSC04688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3WW3_sGJxCc/UMP6tD3Gq2I/AAAAAAAAF9c/6i4DamyuEfM/s640/DSC04688.JPG" title="Hanukkah sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oZejsRNYAUk/UMP65BhCQBI/AAAAAAAAF98/s45X64dh62o/s1600/DSC04703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oZejsRNYAUk/UMP65BhCQBI/AAAAAAAAF98/s45X64dh62o/s640/DSC04703.JPG" title="Hanukkah sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nPX_4gg_k_0/UMP6vzOrflI/AAAAAAAAF9k/4Fjpv_Eb17k/s1600/DSC04693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nPX_4gg_k_0/UMP6vzOrflI/AAAAAAAAF9k/4Fjpv_Eb17k/s640/DSC04693.JPG" title="Hanukkah sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hYqv1op-V5I/UMP61YaePxI/AAAAAAAAF9s/bnZ58O2I_Ls/s1600/DSC04697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hYqv1op-V5I/UMP61YaePxI/AAAAAAAAF9s/bnZ58O2I_Ls/s640/DSC04697.JPG" title="Hanukkah sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M6AC7YvsNlo/UMP63nv8LXI/AAAAAAAAF90/IHsnpIw0DZU/s1600/DSC04702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M6AC7YvsNlo/UMP63nv8LXI/AAAAAAAAF90/IHsnpIw0DZU/s640/DSC04702.JPG" title="Hanukkah sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-88292934598823994382012-12-06T12:44:00.000-08:002013-01-22T17:43:45.395-08:00Favorite recipes : sugar cookies<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I have been on a cookie making craze lately, and because I am just a beginner, I still have to find my favorite recipes, for cookies and royal icing. </span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7sKJ8y_E55I/UMD-Pk4WPII/AAAAAAAAF7M/6IuaYXSveUk/s1600/DSC04992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7sKJ8y_E55I/UMD-Pk4WPII/AAAAAAAAF7M/6IuaYXSveUk/s640/DSC04992.JPG" title="Google Android shaped sugar cookies, for AnDevCon, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">made some Android cookies, because we live in Silicon Valley and AnDevCon is this week</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">After trying a shortbread cookie recipe, I decided I would rather stick to the classic sugar cookie, so I concentrated on that.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Many many pounds of butter, flour and sugar later, and batch after batch of cookies baked, decorated and mostly eaten, this recipe I am sharing with you today seem to work best for me so far. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Since I started making cookies, I did not make the same recipe twice, so each series was different. I kept playing with the amounts of the ingredients, and using different types of sugars and butters... my whole kitchen was overtaken by cookies! I needed a cookie that was tasty, soft but also kept it's shape. Harder to do, than I thought. Still working on it. I will update this post whenever I will find a better recipe/method.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">So here it is:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Sugar cookie recipe (makes about 24 3 inch cookies)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1. 4 sticks of butter ( 2 cups, 16 oz, 1 pound or 453 grams). The butter must be slightly soften, but still cold. I just take the butter out of the fridge and leave it on the counter for 15-20 minutes, not more. Use good quality butter with high fat percentage. I like to use Plugra brand butter. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2. 2 cups (250 grams) sugar. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3. 2 large eggs, cracked in a separate bowl, lightly beaten.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">4. 1 tablespoon pure vanilla bean paste. You can use the seeds of a whole vanilla bean, or one tablespoon pure vanilla extract. Just make sure you use a natural, pure vanilla, and not some imitation stuff (yuk). I like using vanilla bean paste, because I love seeing the vanilla seeds in my cookies, and is much cheaper than using vanilla beans. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">5. 5 cups of all purpose flour, sifted in a separate bowl, and set aside</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">6. 1 pinch fine sea salt (optional, but it does help adding salt to any baked product) Sift this with your flour. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Note: you can substitute or add other flavorings on top of the vanilla , like almond extract (few drops), 1 tablespoon of Grand Marnier liqueur, lemon or orange zest (1-2 tablespoons), some cardamom, cinnamon ...whatever you like, really.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">In the bowl of your stand mixer (hand mixer works just as fine) fitted to the paddle attachment add the butter, cut in 1-2 inch cubes, and the sugar, and cream for not more than 1 minute. You just need to mix them together and incorporate, not more. This is important! If you beat it for longer you incorporate more air in the dough, and the cookies won't hold the shape while baking ;)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g1g93tdV2wU/UMEATCTdQXI/AAAAAAAAF7c/maJPM23ORRE/s1600/IMG_20121116_184845-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-g1g93tdV2wU/UMEATCTdQXI/AAAAAAAAF7c/maJPM23ORRE/s640/IMG_20121116_184845-001.jpg" title="making sugar cookies, KitchenAid mixer, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Beat lightly the eggs and flavorings, add to the butter and mix just until combined.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Add the flour and salt mixture, and mix on low speed for about 30 seconds up to a minute, until the flour is barely incorporated, and the dough starts to cling to the paddle. Don't over work the dough, so the cookies stay soft. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Transfer dough onto your work surface, dusted lightly with confectioner's sugar. It is usual to use flour for this, but I prefer sugar. Adding flour while rolling out the dough might make it tougher, because the flour will be assimilated in the dough, so with sugar you don't have this problem! I have my confectioner's sugar jar near by, and using a small sifter, or tea infuser, I dust my work surface with it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Shape the dough into a rough ball, cut it in half. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPGb-YmmUzU/UMEAUOuR6wI/AAAAAAAAF7k/8Mukvc4uYKs/s1600/IMG_20121116_190350-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPGb-YmmUzU/UMEAUOuR6wI/AAAAAAAAF7k/8Mukvc4uYKs/s640/IMG_20121116_190350-001.jpg" title="making cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Take each half, shape it into a somewhat square shape. I don't know why but I prefer my dough to be square when rolled out, but of course round is just as fine. Don't knead the dough, be gentle. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Place the dough onto a large parchment paper, or even clear plastic wrapping foil, dusted with confectioner's sugar. If you have a silicon mat, place it under the parchment paper, so it does not slide while rolling, or lightly wet your work surface, so that the paper kind of stick to it. Rolling the dough onto a parchment paper will make it very easy for you to handle it later, without breaking it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7QHMvFwGl8Q/UMEAVEMI3OI/AAAAAAAAF7s/kDFGtnrg9a4/s1600/IMG_20121116_192013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7QHMvFwGl8Q/UMEAVEMI3OI/AAAAAAAAF7s/kDFGtnrg9a4/s640/IMG_20121116_192013.jpg" title="sugar cookie recipe, by Askanam" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Dust some more confectioner's sugar on top of the dough, so the rolling pin does not stick. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Using a rolling pin roll out the dough to a 1/3 , 1/4 inch thickness. I like the cookies to be thicker, as they keep their shape better and are also softer after baking, but mostly because biting into a fat cookie is awesome.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">The easiest for me to roll out the dough is to start with the rolling pin in the middle of the dough, and gently roll one time away from you, then lift, place the pin in the center again, and roll towards yourself. Do this a few times until the dough is thinner, about 1/2 inches. you can roll in a continuous up and down motion after this point. If you shaped the dough in a square at the beginning, you will end up with a rectangular shaped dough sheet. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"> I find using <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Casabella-Silicone-Rolling-Spacer-Bands/dp/B0058VX11Q" target="_blank">rolling pin spacer bands</a> like these to be very useful, so my dough has the same thickness all over. These are like really fat silicon bands, that come in different sizes, and you attach them to your rolling pin's ends. Makes it so much easier! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Transfer the rolled out dough, with the parchment paper onto a pan, or even a large cutting board, whatever you have on hand that will fit the whole sheet of dough, cover with plastic wrap on top, and place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Repeat same process with the second half of the dough. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">It is best to work in a cool environment, so the butter in the dough does not soften too much. A cooled marble pastry board and pin would be ideal, but I don't have that. Just make sure your kitchen is not very warm, and work as fast as you can. Cool dough is much easier to roll and handle. If you notice the dough is too soft and gets sticky, wrap it well in plastic or place in a bag, and keep in the fridge for 10-15 minutes, then roll it. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Many recipes advise to chill the dough before rolling it out for at least one hour. I like to roll out my dough right away, because I have no patience to wait for it one extra hour, and because when it is very cool/firm it cracks while rolling it. Then you have to wait a while for it to get softer... and so on. So I just skip this step. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Prepare your baking sheets (you will need 2 or 3 if you have), lining them with parchment paper. I also like to chill them in the fridge or freezer, while the dough also chills. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HbNw_z3fxnE/UMEAWIZ_YmI/AAAAAAAAF70/lRrnjt4VyqY/s1600/IMG_20121116_194136-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HbNw_z3fxnE/UMEAWIZ_YmI/AAAAAAAAF70/lRrnjt4VyqY/s640/IMG_20121116_194136-001.jpg" title="Sugar cookie recipe, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">After the dough sheets have been in the fridge for at least one hour, take them out, and start cutting out your shapes. For more complicated shaped and delicate cookies, I like to place the cutter on the dough, press straight down with your palms, then lift the dough without removing the cookie cutter, and even using an offset spatula using it as a helper to transfer the cut cookie to the baking sheet. Then gently remove the cutter. Take extra care for thin parts of the cookie, so they don't break. If the dough is thoroughly chilled is easy to handle. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">If you are making round or square cookies you can just cut out all of them, then transfer them easily.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">If you make many different shaped cookies at once, place all your cookie cutters at the same time on the dough sheet, close to one another, so that you fit as many as possible at once. Using your both palms, press on them. It is best to do this because you want as little dough scraps to be left behind. The dough scraps will be rerolled, to make other cookies, and if you do this many times, your last cookies will get tough, from all the extra kneading and rolling. So we want to have to do this as few times as possible.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LaINNH3xrfs/UMEByRujKRI/AAAAAAAAF8U/aPna04QkrsY/s1600/IMG_20121126_190255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LaINNH3xrfs/UMEByRujKRI/AAAAAAAAF8U/aPna04QkrsY/s640/IMG_20121126_190255.jpg" title="sugar cookie recipe, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I like to place 12 medium ( 3 inch ) cookies on a baking sheet, 4 rows of 3 cookies. Just make sure they have 1-2 inches of space between them, for even baking and to avoid them sticking to one another, as they can get little larger while baking. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">So now that your cookies are cut and placed on the baking sheets, place them in the freezer, with the baking sheet, for at least 15 minutes (max 30), or in the fridge for at least one hour! This will also help them retain their shape while baking. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 350-360 degrees F (180 C). Checking the accurate oven temperature is a good idea, and adjust it accordingly, with the use of an oven thermometer, as many ovens are not very precise. Do not bake cookies bellow 350 degrees F.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">While oven is heating and cookies are chilling, re-roll your dough scrapes, and repeat the chilling/cutting process. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">If you have only one or two baking sheets, you can place the cut cookies on a parchment paper on a clean cutting board, in the fridge, while the first batch is baking. Just make sure that after you remove the baked cookies from the pan, to cool/chill the pan before placing and baking the new batch. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kU3MWgOAqMg/UMEC1IB0sQI/AAAAAAAAF8k/GlbVzFK7go4/s1600/IMG_20121203_220803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kU3MWgOAqMg/UMEC1IB0sQI/AAAAAAAAF8k/GlbVzFK7go4/s640/IMG_20121203_220803.jpg" title="Google Android sugar cookie recipe, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Take out the pans from the freezer and place directly in the preheated oven. Bake for 8-12 minutes, depending on the size of the cookies, until lightly golden edges. I bake 2 pans at a time. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Let them cool for 15 minutes in the pan, then remove to a wire rack, and cool completely before decorating. You can also decorate them the second day. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--2p0dTBP2CA/UMECz7U2jwI/AAAAAAAAF8c/5c9QJJkrrWk/s1600/IMG_20121203_102352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--2p0dTBP2CA/UMECz7U2jwI/AAAAAAAAF8c/5c9QJJkrrWk/s640/IMG_20121203_102352.jpg" title="Snowflakes sugar cookies recipe, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">You can store cookies in an airtight container, at room temperature for 2-3 weeks. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Hope this post will help other beginner bakers. Baking and decorating cookies is so much fun, please give it a try!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Royal icing recipe coming soon! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-52426249363987999042012-12-03T15:01:00.001-08:002012-12-03T15:01:19.526-08:00"Gingerbread" house<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">My first gingerbread house is ready! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u5sjsLMYq8I/UL0u7BNmGXI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/zPmau15fCBY/s1600/DSC04960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u5sjsLMYq8I/UL0u7BNmGXI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/zPmau15fCBY/s640/DSC04960.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="426" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">This is not technically a gingerbread house, as it is made with shortbread cookie recipe instead of gingerbread, because I wanted it to be light colored, instead of brown. I do not recommend this dough though, as the shortbread is so fragile, the house was kind of hard to put together, my roof broke in half, and had to do repair it (when a cookie breaks, the easiest way to fix things, besides eating it, is to put few drops of royal icing as a glue, and stick the two pieces together carefully, and let it dry over night. It will not even show it was broken ;) ), so I think it is better to go with the traditional gingerbread recipe, or for a light colored house with basic sugar cookie recipe.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SruezSuUQTE/UL0vGvzrO-I/AAAAAAAAF6Y/ETjn8nQkFDE/s1600/DSC04962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SruezSuUQTE/UL0vGvzrO-I/AAAAAAAAF6Y/ETjn8nQkFDE/s640/DSC04962.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I had so much fun making and decorating it! If you have some free time, I strongly recommend you make one yourself. You will love it! I especially enjoyed finding and buying all the candy, it was the perfect excuse to wonder around all candy stores and stock up on lots and lots of fun candy. Much more than I needed for this small house. I guess I will have to eat it now. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">:)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bMHCfGGCFH0/UL0p_gKQBZI/AAAAAAAAF4M/MJvz6wfFhCw/s1600/DSC04937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bMHCfGGCFH0/UL0p_gKQBZI/AAAAAAAAF4M/MJvz6wfFhCw/s640/DSC04937.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I also put a Christmas tree inside of the house. I love seeing it though the heart shaped windows.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Os1K_IFsocE/UL0qVsoI3mI/AAAAAAAAF4U/Sem2D8EgUbc/s1600/DSC04925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Os1K_IFsocE/UL0qVsoI3mI/AAAAAAAAF4U/Sem2D8EgUbc/s640/DSC04925.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Love the little dots of color in the "tiles" I used for the roof, I was so happy to find those candy melts.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1x4eUHOD1k/UL0qYyD5jGI/AAAAAAAAF4k/bu_XPjr0vSE/s1600/DSC04946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1x4eUHOD1k/UL0qYyD5jGI/AAAAAAAAF4k/bu_XPjr0vSE/s640/DSC04946.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">This is the back side of the house.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OEYoej6j5S4/UL0qaTkAtuI/AAAAAAAAF4s/FgCV8hWQPek/s1600/DSC04948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OEYoej6j5S4/UL0qaTkAtuI/AAAAAAAAF4s/FgCV8hWQPek/s640/DSC04948.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="425" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">The icicles were hard to make, and it still did not come right. I guess i will just have to make another house. To practice, you know.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MXJ1HCRC2MU/UL0qb5xYnSI/AAAAAAAAF40/GqxFfksV5rU/s1600/DSC04957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MXJ1HCRC2MU/UL0qb5xYnSI/AAAAAAAAF40/GqxFfksV5rU/s640/DSC04957.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XqSMEMLelnI/UL0qdgKB-iI/AAAAAAAAF48/l_wIWEAADPU/s1600/DSC04967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XqSMEMLelnI/UL0qdgKB-iI/AAAAAAAAF48/l_wIWEAADPU/s640/DSC04967.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gSECTXP1NSg/UL0qgCZuDbI/AAAAAAAAF5M/szCZIQLvNfY/s1600/DSC04984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gSECTXP1NSg/UL0qgCZuDbI/AAAAAAAAF5M/szCZIQLvNfY/s640/DSC04984.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G7Sq35y02w4/UL0qW8c6dwI/AAAAAAAAF4c/qESlHTZdexQ/s1600/DSC04942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G7Sq35y02w4/UL0qW8c6dwI/AAAAAAAAF4c/qESlHTZdexQ/s640/DSC04942.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Os1K_IFsocE/UL0qVsoI3mI/AAAAAAAAF4U/Sem2D8EgUbc/s1600/DSC04925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Os1K_IFsocE/UL0qVsoI3mI/AAAAAAAAF4U/Sem2D8EgUbc/s640/DSC04925.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">And this is to give you an idea of the size of the house. I really like the proportions of it. Isn't it cute?</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4hPtfB-5JxY/UL0qe6o8Y3I/AAAAAAAAF5E/mhnOca2dOqA/s1600/DSC04975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4hPtfB-5JxY/UL0qe6o8Y3I/AAAAAAAAF5E/mhnOca2dOqA/s640/DSC04975.JPG" title="Christmas "gingerbread" house, made of shortbread cookie dough, from scratch, by Askanam" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I cut out the dough for this house by hand, using a beautiful template that Marian form Sweetopia.net was so kind to share. She makes the most amazing cookies I ever saw, and is my main inspiration, also the reason I started making cookies and this house too. Thank you, Marian!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Hope you all are having a great time preparing for the arrival of Santa. Can't wait to see what I get! </span>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-74782574219072223182012-11-30T00:30:00.000-08:002012-11-30T00:30:01.259-08:00Tis the season!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DEg9Z8FTtOY/ULdFZ3A6GhI/AAAAAAAAF10/8m3xby7qWhA/s1600/DSC04833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DEg9Z8FTtOY/ULdFZ3A6GhI/AAAAAAAAF10/8m3xby7qWhA/s640/DSC04833.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yzrdLgC3nlA/ULdFXmPMm3I/AAAAAAAAF1s/IEjEoTPe4ZE/s1600/DSC04832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yzrdLgC3nlA/ULdFXmPMm3I/AAAAAAAAF1s/IEjEoTPe4ZE/s640/DSC04832.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vtl1EXdgDGU/ULdFcjTa3QI/AAAAAAAAF18/EoYdt6ugZKI/s1600/DSC04790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vtl1EXdgDGU/ULdFcjTa3QI/AAAAAAAAF18/EoYdt6ugZKI/s640/DSC04790.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZHmWJD0wNI/ULdFjvg77jI/AAAAAAAAF2M/-C4JVsdXj4g/s1600/DSC04797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iZHmWJD0wNI/ULdFjvg77jI/AAAAAAAAF2M/-C4JVsdXj4g/s640/DSC04797.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zAZOcuhLkro/ULdFlWY6ppI/AAAAAAAAF2U/vP-ZK_Mem0c/s1600/DSC04779.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zAZOcuhLkro/ULdFlWY6ppI/AAAAAAAAF2U/vP-ZK_Mem0c/s640/DSC04779.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdExlBQyDzU/ULdFnL0RtlI/AAAAAAAAF2c/yhETEV8AWcQ/s1600/DSC04780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdExlBQyDzU/ULdFnL0RtlI/AAAAAAAAF2c/yhETEV8AWcQ/s640/DSC04780.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HGPcyNg3-og/ULdFqXFDcEI/AAAAAAAAF2w/LmfY3fxdbUs/s1600/DSC04765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HGPcyNg3-og/ULdFqXFDcEI/AAAAAAAAF2w/LmfY3fxdbUs/s640/DSC04765.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uqy8iTPRrns/ULdFr6CJ6QI/AAAAAAAAF28/2zz1xpaPzdg/s1600/DSC04771.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uqy8iTPRrns/ULdFr6CJ6QI/AAAAAAAAF28/2zz1xpaPzdg/s640/DSC04771.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oDGHen_OY5s/ULdFtpjqi2I/AAAAAAAAF3E/JP0ew0Q9KW0/s1600/DSC04807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oDGHen_OY5s/ULdFtpjqi2I/AAAAAAAAF3E/JP0ew0Q9KW0/s640/DSC04807.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKOH3WKXmbM/ULdFvKLZ3LI/AAAAAAAAF3M/eq0-M5VdRS0/s1600/DSC04812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKOH3WKXmbM/ULdFvKLZ3LI/AAAAAAAAF3M/eq0-M5VdRS0/s640/DSC04812.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qe_pfFoTGpk/ULdFznBY7zI/AAAAAAAAF3U/v3wD4qS0Vlo/s1600/DSC04822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qe_pfFoTGpk/ULdFznBY7zI/AAAAAAAAF3U/v3wD4qS0Vlo/s640/DSC04822.JPG" title="Christmas decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-70833249262795337832012-11-29T03:14:00.000-08:002012-11-29T03:14:39.152-08:00Pac-Man cookies. Yes, you can eat them.Loved making these cookies. Can't wait to eat them!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-upm252U3iQA/ULdAO_yNSRI/AAAAAAAAFz8/Kf1h3NAVZFI/s1600/DSC04866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoPDqxpOukc/ULdASNQjIOI/AAAAAAAAF0M/aMbo4Ye695E/s1600/DSC04880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoPDqxpOukc/ULdASNQjIOI/AAAAAAAAF0M/aMbo4Ye695E/s1600/DSC04880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoPDqxpOukc/ULdASNQjIOI/AAAAAAAAF0M/aMbo4Ye695E/s640/DSC04880.JPG" title="Pac-Man or Pakku-man sugar cookies by Askanam" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-upm252U3iQA/ULdAO_yNSRI/AAAAAAAAFz8/Kf1h3NAVZFI/s1600/DSC04866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-upm252U3iQA/ULdAO_yNSRI/AAAAAAAAFz8/Kf1h3NAVZFI/s640/DSC04866.JPG" title="Pac-Man or Pakku-man and Ms. Pac-Man sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAgJbxNjIKs/ULdAQga_13I/AAAAAAAAF0E/RDpU9mHz3Ww/s1600/DSC04867.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AAgJbxNjIKs/ULdAQga_13I/AAAAAAAAF0E/RDpU9mHz3Ww/s640/DSC04867.JPG" title="Pac-Man or Pakku-man and Ms. Pac-Man sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bZEazZTQTKE/ULdAUW5V5tI/AAAAAAAAF0U/bDlHiP2v7hs/s1600/DSC04884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bZEazZTQTKE/ULdAUW5V5tI/AAAAAAAAF0U/bDlHiP2v7hs/s640/DSC04884.JPG" title="Pac-Man or Pakku-man and Ms. Pac-Man sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A44fdCf_wGo/ULdAVhC25MI/AAAAAAAAF0c/vfazJeZHcH0/s1600/DSC04886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A44fdCf_wGo/ULdAVhC25MI/AAAAAAAAF0c/vfazJeZHcH0/s640/DSC04886.JPG" title="Pac-Man or Pakku-man and Ms. Pac-Man sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Nm5U5dwF6M/ULdAXUisHcI/AAAAAAAAF0k/DmZPJ4-HvME/s1600/DSC04887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Nm5U5dwF6M/ULdAXUisHcI/AAAAAAAAF0k/DmZPJ4-HvME/s640/DSC04887.JPG" title="Pac-Man or Pakku-man and Ms. Pac-Man sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VK7fa7Z3NrQ/ULdAZlIe-MI/AAAAAAAAF0w/XH0xnj6WVl4/s1600/DSC04890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VK7fa7Z3NrQ/ULdAZlIe-MI/AAAAAAAAF0w/XH0xnj6WVl4/s640/DSC04890.JPG" title="Pac-Man or Pakku-man and Ms. Pac-Man sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-19637693324108183632012-11-26T12:17:00.001-08:002012-11-26T12:40:25.965-08:00Hockey themed custom cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Had so much fun making those custom hockey themed cookies. Because I could only find a jersey shaped cookie cutter, I had to make all the rest of the cookies by hand cutting the shapes. It was a lot of work, but I enjoyed it. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0r8SMvhUKA/ULPJemSuC4I/AAAAAAAAFy4/WKudv8PIdNI/s1600/DSC04609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0r8SMvhUKA/ULPJemSuC4I/AAAAAAAAFy4/WKudv8PIdNI/s640/DSC04609.JPG" title="Custom hockey themed, jersey, ice skate, hockey stick and puck, logo, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam. Find me on Etsy to order your custom cookies!" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I do not know anything about hockey, and had to do some research. But if you are a hockey fan, what do the numbers on the jerseys, 9, 99, and 4 stand for? This should be easy ;) </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0r8SMvhUKA/ULPJemSuC4I/AAAAAAAAFy4/WKudv8PIdNI/s1600/DSC04609.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"></span></a></div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gz3Gapb46FI/ULPJbEZkn7I/AAAAAAAAFyo/uV3gpbBQj_o/s1600/DSC04604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="Custom hockey themed, jersey, ice skate, hockey stick and puck, logo, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam. Find me on Etsy to order your custom cookies!" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gz3Gapb46FI/ULPJbEZkn7I/AAAAAAAAFyo/uV3gpbBQj_o/s640/DSC04604.JPG" title="Custom hockey ice skate sugar cookie" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQXsCXIHALc/ULPJXiwBgGI/AAAAAAAAFyY/ebeSofd0tKM/s1600/DSC04601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="Custom hockey themed, jersey, ice skate, hockey stick and puck, logo, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam. Find me on Etsy to order your custom cookies!" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQXsCXIHALc/ULPJXiwBgGI/AAAAAAAAFyY/ebeSofd0tKM/s640/DSC04601.JPG" title="Custom hockey jersey sugar cookie" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_VqhSxCIc0g/ULPJZH19IUI/AAAAAAAAFyg/bD5TWI4Qhqg/s1600/DSC04602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="Custom hockey themed, jersey, ice skate, hockey stick and puck, logo, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam. Find me on Etsy to order your custom cookies!" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_VqhSxCIc0g/ULPJZH19IUI/AAAAAAAAFyg/bD5TWI4Qhqg/s640/DSC04602.JPG" title="Hockey jersey cookie" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xOlXq_i--OA/ULPJc7anHKI/AAAAAAAAFyw/-mJF6S9OEKM/s1600/DSC04605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="Custom hockey themed, jersey, ice skate, hockey stick and puck, logo, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam. Find me on Etsy to order your custom cookies!" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xOlXq_i--OA/ULPJc7anHKI/AAAAAAAAFyw/-mJF6S9OEKM/s640/DSC04605.JPG" title="Hockey stick and puck cookie" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x-FJOUnpDY8/ULPJgb8tptI/AAAAAAAAFzE/ia2W9NSxn2M/s1600/DSC04614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="Custom hockey themed, jersey, ice skate, hockey stick and puck, logo, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam. Find me on Etsy to order your custom cookies!" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x-FJOUnpDY8/ULPJgb8tptI/AAAAAAAAFzE/ia2W9NSxn2M/s640/DSC04614.JPG" title="Hockey cookies" width="640" /> </span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NOKHMbBJy00/ULPJj67HM0I/AAAAAAAAFzM/DywM3FQCUDo/s1600/DSC04615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="Custom hockey themed, jersey, ice skate, hockey stick and puck, logo, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam. Find me on Etsy to order your custom cookies!" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NOKHMbBJy00/ULPJj67HM0I/AAAAAAAAFzM/DywM3FQCUDo/s640/DSC04615.JPG" title="Hockey team logo cookie" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-68686471829376156262012-11-25T03:51:00.000-08:002012-11-25T03:51:04.255-08:00Obsessed with cookies<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Exciting news!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I got so much into making cookies, that I started thinking I might have to sell them, as we really cannot eat as many as I am making, and would love to share them with others! So, Askanam opened an Etsy store (<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Askanam" target="_blank">click here for link</a>) , where you can order your custom cookies! I feel so much more motivated when I have a precise goal and theme for my cookie baking, so I am very excited about this. Already have a few orders! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Here are some of the cookies I made lately, grey and pink, girl themed cookies for baby Brielle</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9nj4TuH7sI/ULIDzonQcCI/AAAAAAAAFwY/aFXa7IEHrfs/s1600/DSC04577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9nj4TuH7sI/ULIDzonQcCI/AAAAAAAAFwY/aFXa7IEHrfs/s640/DSC04577.JPG" title="Custom, baby girl, gourmet, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"> The man in the moon and star are my favorite cookies from this set. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GuhgMoQnwyk/ULID1q5LXsI/AAAAAAAAFwg/15ZWJuefFNg/s1600/DSC04581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GuhgMoQnwyk/ULID1q5LXsI/AAAAAAAAFwg/15ZWJuefFNg/s640/DSC04581.JPG" title="Custom, baby girl, gourmet, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam, man in the moon and star" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rNc_wgOL-uU/ULID3T_LYvI/AAAAAAAAFwo/vWNJCmrHZKM/s1600/DSC04582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rNc_wgOL-uU/ULID3T_LYvI/AAAAAAAAFwo/vWNJCmrHZKM/s640/DSC04582.JPG" title="Custom, baby girl, gourmet, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam, baby rattle cookie" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LrWhvZV6QWY/ULID5IFPytI/AAAAAAAAFww/rO-aGiURUFc/s1600/DSC04584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LrWhvZV6QWY/ULID5IFPytI/AAAAAAAAFww/rO-aGiURUFc/s640/DSC04584.JPG" title="Custom, baby girl, gourmet, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam, grey and pink elephant" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUm6Ig2c2yY/ULID9sQICCI/AAAAAAAAFxI/w2sTHXfuJck/s1600/DSC04588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUm6Ig2c2yY/ULID9sQICCI/AAAAAAAAFxI/w2sTHXfuJck/s640/DSC04588.JPG" title="Custom, baby girl, gourmet, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam, milk bottle" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BmUixKvo8w0/ULID_e33nAI/AAAAAAAAFxY/BaqqTZZERZM/s1600/DSC04591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BmUixKvo8w0/ULID_e33nAI/AAAAAAAAFxY/BaqqTZZERZM/s640/DSC04591.JPG" title="Custom, baby girl, gourmet, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam, baby carriage " width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qt8bhj9xvII/ULIEBfrBirI/AAAAAAAAFxg/89vvqxzQIdM/s1600/DSC04592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qt8bhj9xvII/ULIEBfrBirI/AAAAAAAAFxg/89vvqxzQIdM/s640/DSC04592.JPG" title="Custom, baby girl, gourmet, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam, monogram pink heart" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0HYkAmHj9M/ULIED8-Q5FI/AAAAAAAAFxo/cR7UdpYB8vA/s1600/DSC04596.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l0HYkAmHj9M/ULIED8-Q5FI/AAAAAAAAFxo/cR7UdpYB8vA/s640/DSC04596.JPG" title="Custom, baby girl, gourmet, hand decorated sugar cookies, by Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-67648043154179792202012-10-30T02:29:00.000-07:002012-11-01T00:31:55.526-07:00My first cookies <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JJoXdN_33qw/UI-VTXZ-EuI/AAAAAAAAFrA/8T8prWcey6A/s1600/IMG_20121029_232226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MGARjj07DN4/UJIiVhB0z7I/AAAAAAAAFt8/KaoLRt6AWuI/s1600/IMG_20121031_113506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MGARjj07DN4/UJIiVhB0z7I/AAAAAAAAFt8/KaoLRt6AWuI/s640/IMG_20121031_113506.jpg" title="Askanam's Halloween sugar cookies with royal icing decoration: pumpkins, unicorns, monsters, butterflies, leafs, spiderwebs " width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ayl4kn5gvX0/UJIiLB_oadI/AAAAAAAAFsk/cSMLCAN03Xk/s1600/IMG_20121030_172708.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ayl4kn5gvX0/UJIiLB_oadI/AAAAAAAAFsk/cSMLCAN03Xk/s640/IMG_20121030_172708.jpg" title="Askanam's Halloween sugar cookies with royal icing decoration: pumpkins, unicorns, monsters, butterflies, leafs, spiderwebs " width="640" /><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QgdX7hz8Z_g/UJIiNTqH0cI/AAAAAAAAFs0/z902u76H67E/s1600/IMG_20121030_190049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QgdX7hz8Z_g/UJIiNTqH0cI/AAAAAAAAFs0/z902u76H67E/s320/IMG_20121030_190049.jpg" title="Askanam's Halloween sugar cookies with royal icing decoration: pumpkins, unicorns, monsters, butterflies, leafs, spiderwebs " width="240" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BiLXzQrUJpE/UJIiMV45xnI/AAAAAAAAFso/QqnRTwhMfog/s1600/IMG_20121030_190043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BiLXzQrUJpE/UJIiMV45xnI/AAAAAAAAFso/QqnRTwhMfog/s320/IMG_20121030_190043.jpg" title="Askanam's Halloween sugar cookies with royal icing decoration: pumpkins, unicorns, monsters, butterflies, leafs, spiderwebs " width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MroqvB4Endw/UJIiOnDWCSI/AAAAAAAAFs8/iat7oih5RcI/s1600/IMG_20121030_190055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MroqvB4Endw/UJIiOnDWCSI/AAAAAAAAFs8/iat7oih5RcI/s320/IMG_20121030_190055.jpg" title="Askanam's Halloween sugar cookies with royal icing decoration: pumpkins, unicorns, monsters, butterflies, leafs, spiderwebs " width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G6G8JtVz_mw/UJIiQk5EQKI/AAAAAAAAFtM/cwLyMhqSaws/s1600/IMG_20121030_194300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G6G8JtVz_mw/UJIiQk5EQKI/AAAAAAAAFtM/cwLyMhqSaws/s320/IMG_20121030_194300.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HyyQfDmEaHo/UJIiRfs-PfI/AAAAAAAAFtU/eutTwh30LH8/s1600/IMG_20121030_194557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HyyQfDmEaHo/UJIiRfs-PfI/AAAAAAAAFtU/eutTwh30LH8/s320/IMG_20121030_194557.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dbmMAS6wlJc/UJIiPsQUlaI/AAAAAAAAFtE/tVcIwkDKHr8/s1600/IMG_20121030_192437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dbmMAS6wlJc/UJIiPsQUlaI/AAAAAAAAFtE/tVcIwkDKHr8/s320/IMG_20121030_192437.jpg" title="Askanam's Halloween sugar cookies with royal icing decoration: pumpkins, unicorns, monsters, butterflies, leafs, spiderwebs " width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BaAP1mICIn4/UJIiTE3lXSI/AAAAAAAAFtk/xRX7Yis8k8M/s1600/IMG_20121030_210755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BaAP1mICIn4/UJIiTE3lXSI/AAAAAAAAFtk/xRX7Yis8k8M/s640/IMG_20121030_210755.jpg" title="Askanam's Halloween sugar cookies with royal icing decoration: pumpkins, unicorns, monsters, butterflies, leafs, spiderwebs " width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bLXR_7bdurI/UJIiSbyE96I/AAAAAAAAFtc/_0IuqOYQo3M/s1600/IMG_20121030_210644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bLXR_7bdurI/UJIiSbyE96I/AAAAAAAAFtc/_0IuqOYQo3M/s640/IMG_20121030_210644.jpg" title="Askanam's Halloween sugar cookies with royal icing decoration: pumpkins, unicorns, monsters, butterflies, leafs, spiderwebs " width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dJ9Pt5T5oYQ/UJIiT7sepnI/AAAAAAAAFts/OOuh_bcPs5A/s1600/IMG_20121031_113011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dJ9Pt5T5oYQ/UJIiT7sepnI/AAAAAAAAFts/OOuh_bcPs5A/s640/IMG_20121031_113011.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atPZJieZsOw/UJIiU9CwnpI/AAAAAAAAFt0/7itsFyAsu8I/s1600/IMG_20121031_113205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atPZJieZsOw/UJIiU9CwnpI/AAAAAAAAFt0/7itsFyAsu8I/s640/IMG_20121031_113205.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XmE9W6pC4L4/UJIiX0hM1NI/AAAAAAAAFuU/E9LP9Ip_j9w/s1600/IMG_20121031_113913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XmE9W6pC4L4/UJIiX0hM1NI/AAAAAAAAFuU/E9LP9Ip_j9w/s640/IMG_20121031_113913.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lA-yQIUPBNE/UJIiWedtFmI/AAAAAAAAFuE/05ck24cJQH8/s1600/IMG_20121031_113610.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lA-yQIUPBNE/UJIiWedtFmI/AAAAAAAAFuE/05ck24cJQH8/s640/IMG_20121031_113610.jpg" width="640" /><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5WOrqg9_6JY/UJIiXA8hsII/AAAAAAAAFuM/59aA6tR7NEk/s1600/IMG_20121031_113807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5WOrqg9_6JY/UJIiXA8hsII/AAAAAAAAFuM/59aA6tR7NEk/s640/IMG_20121031_113807.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yc2_r0tFPNs/UJIiZjZN6RI/AAAAAAAAFuk/m6ZshE-ePtU/s1600/IMG_20121031_120106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yc2_r0tFPNs/UJIiZjZN6RI/AAAAAAAAFuk/m6ZshE-ePtU/s640/IMG_20121031_120106.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XSpYUc46UAk/UJIiaSatlDI/AAAAAAAAFus/9AxumGlW888/s1600/IMG_20121031_120336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XSpYUc46UAk/UJIiaSatlDI/AAAAAAAAFus/9AxumGlW888/s640/IMG_20121031_120336.jpg" width="640" /><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Z4QupSebhE/UJIibcEY2uI/AAAAAAAAFu0/YerSwMhCzcI/s1600/IMG_20121031_190720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Z4QupSebhE/UJIibcEY2uI/AAAAAAAAFu0/YerSwMhCzcI/s640/IMG_20121031_190720.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I was always curious about making this type of "American" decorated cookie, and with Halloween around the corner it seemed like the time for it. Bought so many cookie cutters since we moved here, but so far only used them for anything else but cookies. This is why you will see so many different types of cookies, I wanted to try as many as I could :)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I admit I do not really like cookies, but I adore decorating them, so for sure will keep making those, until maybe I find a recipe I like to eat as well, rather than just play with :) and in the meantime I will stick to eating cake.</span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">So happy to be able to play with my big collection of food coloring too. Felt like a kid in kindergarten today. So much fun! I even forgot to eat today, as I was so much into making and decorating these cookies.</span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">The recipe I used is adapted from Martha Stewart's website. These are simple sugar cookies, frosted with royal icing tinted in various colors. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iWr5_4fNNJQ/UI-VNBCRPSI/AAAAAAAAFqI/7XrR5Dtdob4/s640/IMG_20121029_174350.jpg" title="Halloween royal icing decorated sugar cookies" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HbaLlYfDWFg/UI-VN-_JNvI/AAAAAAAAFqQ/6dEhnPNOzMg/s640/IMG_20121029_182551.jpg" title="Halloween royal icing decorated sugar cookies" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rD8MsYfaGck/UI-VPESs7bI/AAAAAAAAFqY/SwJO5__1esM/s640/IMG_20121029_200024.jpg" title="Halloween royal icing decorated sugar cookies" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qopb9_PvYrU/UI-VP440KNI/AAAAAAAAFqg/NM0cOj9EqIE/s640/IMG_20121029_200249.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sYqLpIfzl8c/UI-VQ36M9yI/AAAAAAAAFqo/AW8BIh6JEjU/s640/IMG_20121029_231810.jpg" title="Halloween royal icing decorated sugar cookies : pumpkins, spiders, leafs, acorns, stars, webs, unicorns, butterflies" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U4YnESNMSW0/UI-VRxlBt1I/AAAAAAAAFqw/12gc5-cjBVA/s640/IMG_20121029_232012.jpg" title="Halloween royal icing decorated sugar cookies : pumpkins, spiders, leafs, acorns, stars, webs, unicorns, butterflies" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1u6DCtyk3Y/UI-VSnG3aFI/AAAAAAAAFq4/S0bbeN-A5Ac/s640/IMG_20121029_232118.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--3g91G3hRm8/UI-VUbdBNoI/AAAAAAAAFrI/zLwanrJVpn8/s640/IMG_20121029_232339.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VdtCGVBXO_8/UI-VVbWbFlI/AAAAAAAAFrQ/nLrgCRIuSYI/s640/IMG_20121029_232554.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iuUROR0w3hU/UI-VWAAqkJI/AAAAAAAAFrY/WHsfcMW_41w/s640/IMG_20121029_232702.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0IKi1Mb3Xcg/UI-VXLGQkkI/AAAAAAAAFrg/cNEBVPeEDPA/s640/IMG_20121029_232820.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lnTJcuZvw6A/UI-VX-s0rBI/AAAAAAAAFro/F5J3L6bv8vQ/s640/IMG_20121029_232902.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ej5jzLk_zA/UI-VZE72R1I/AAAAAAAAFrw/yiwjTZ8ibiw/s640/IMG_20121029_232947.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5iw2r4Y_ihk/UI-VaVe-LYI/AAAAAAAAFr4/Bfc3ELYv4Ow/s640/IMG_20121029_233024.jpg" width="640" /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Cookie recipe</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients for 24 medium sized cookies:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 stick butter, at room temperature</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup granulated sugar</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 egg, beaten</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 tablespoon Grand Marnier ( Martha said brandy but I had Grand Marnier, so I used that; you can also skip this if you are making the cookies for kids)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 pinch baking powder</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 pinch salt</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 cups all purpose flour</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Cream the butter and sugar for about 30 seconds, just until well combined.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Add the egg, vanilla and liqueur and mix.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Sift over the flour, salt and baking powder, and mix everything just until combined. Don't over work the dough, as the cookies will turn out hard.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Form dough into a disc, wrap well in plastic and chill in the fridge for 1 hour.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 C)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">When the dough is chilled, take it out, and with a rolling pin roll it to about 1/8 of an inch thickness.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Use you desired cookie cutters and place the cut cookies on a baking sheet lined with un-greased parchment paper. Chill the cut cookies for 10 minutes in the fridge on the baking sheet. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Bake for 10-12 minutes, until cookies turn light golden on edges. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Cool cookies on a cooling rack. Handle with care for the cookies not to break. Use an offset spatula to move them from the baking sheet on the cooling rack.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">You can start decorating them with royal icing once they reach room temperature. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Royal icing</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 large egg whites</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">4 cups sifted confectioner's sugar (powdered sugar)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Gel food coloring if desired</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, but not until it looks grainy. They should look glossy and smooth.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Add lemon juice and sift over the sugar. Add only 3 1/2 cups, and keep 1/2 cups to adjust the consistency later. Beat everything well until smooth. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">This icing can be kept in a covered non reactive container in the fridge for up to 3 days.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"> The right consistency:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">the most important part when decorating cookies, is to have a perfect consistency of the icing. Easiest way to check is to have your icing in a bowl, trace a line with a knife/toothpick on the surface, but quite deep, and the icing should return flat, covering the trace, in 10 seconds. If it is too thick you can put some lemon juice and thin it out. If it is too runny add more sugar and beat, then test again. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Divide the icing in separate bowls, one for each color you want to decorate with. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Add 2-3 drops of food coloring, mix, and adjust until you get the desired shade.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I used plastic piping bags, and a number 2 piping tip. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Unleash your creativity and have fun! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">If you want more details about how I decorated my cookies, please ask in the comments bellow, I will be happy to explain.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Happy Halloween!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666;">Photos taken with Instagram; sorry for the bad quality, it is 2:35 AM, so this is all I could do :)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-83229513518869166612012-09-15T16:44:00.001-07:002012-09-15T16:44:23.024-07:00Ema's brownie ... or blondie?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8-srEi-0IY8/UFUPRwOHonI/AAAAAAAAFpI/e190RXGSnHg/s1600/IMG_20120829_202758.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8-srEi-0IY8/UFUPRwOHonI/AAAAAAAAFpI/e190RXGSnHg/s640/IMG_20120829_202758.jpg" title="Brownie or blondie with meringue topping and chocolate sauce , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5cVQsqN7LVI/UFUPOM9P2xI/AAAAAAAAFoo/5l9EJAbNNfA/s1600/DSC03575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5cVQsqN7LVI/UFUPOM9P2xI/AAAAAAAAFoo/5l9EJAbNNfA/s640/DSC03575.JPG" title="Brownie or blondie with chocolate sauce , by Askanam " width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">This cake I was introduced to earlier in the summer, while visiting my hubby's cousin, Ema. I like to think of her as my cousin too now. I love her, she is an awesome person. Everybody in the family was excited for her barbecue party, but not as much for the barbecue itself but more about this scrumptious cake she makes. And you can imagine I got very excited about this, all our cousins were raving about it, and as soon as we got there we dug in, before having any actual food, even some of us breaking all strict diets and all, and ate half of the cake in a heartbeat. Then we ate an array or various grilled meats, sides and salads, all delicious, and yes, we finished everything with the other half of the cake. It was an awesome evening! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DB-Jk9_zF3M/UFUPL_m-ZFI/AAAAAAAAFog/P-s-L-8gkFs/s1600/DSC03556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DB-Jk9_zF3M/UFUPL_m-ZFI/AAAAAAAAFog/P-s-L-8gkFs/s640/DSC03556.JPG" title="Brownie or blondie with chocolate sauce , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">And of course I asked her for the recipe and the permission to share it here on Askanam. She is a total sweetheart, and agreed. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Back home we call this type of cake a brownie, although it has nothing much in common with the American brownie. My Mom also makes this type of cake, but Ema had changed and improved the recipe over the years, as she has been making this since her school years, and the results are great to say the least. Well I must say I added my own touch to it, errrr, just by doubling the quantity of chocolate sauce, haha. Because well, you can never have to much chocolate, right?</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients for a 9x13 inch pan, around 40 servings (yes, portion size is very small, as the cake is very rich, but of course, you eat as many as you want or can... that means a lot more than 1 for us): </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">For the cake:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">7 large eggs, separated</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">7 tablespoons vegetable oil (sunflower, canola or corn)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 1/2 cups all purpose flour</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 teaspoon baking powder (optional, works just as fine without)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 small pinch of salt</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon pure vanilla bean paste or extract</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">For the frosting:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">6 egg whites</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 1/2 cups granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 teaspoon vinegar (optional)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 tablespoon corn starch (optional)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">For the sauce:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">6 egg yolks</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 1/2 cups granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 stick of butter, softened preferably </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup of milk</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2/3 cup good quality cocoa powder </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">First, make the cake.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan lined with parchment paper, and preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 C).</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Separate the egg whites from yolks, putting the whites in the clean bowl of your mixer, fitted with the whip attachment, and the yolks in the bowl of a small food processor, blender or just a medium bowl.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Start beating the egg whites on lowest speed for 20-30 seconds. Increase the speed to high, and beat for 1-2 minutes until soft peaks. Add a pinch of salt. With the mixer still on high speed add the sugar gradually, and beat until stiff glossy peaks form, another 2 minutes or so. This times are for a KitchenAid stand mixer, it might take a little longer time if you use a hand held mixer, that is not as powerful. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Blend/process or beat with a fork or whisk the egg yolks and vegetable oil very well, until thick and lighter in color. Mix in the vanilla.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Add the egg yolk mixture over the egg whites (meringue) and mix/fold in gently with a wooden spoon.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Sift on top of it the flour and baking powder, and fold in gently just until incorporated. Do not over mix. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9G0UW2rld8/UFUPO7Yb4HI/AAAAAAAAFow/Hf973l9lTbQ/s1600/IMG_20120829_171127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X9G0UW2rld8/UFUPO7Yb4HI/AAAAAAAAFow/Hf973l9lTbQ/s640/IMG_20120829_171127.jpg" title="Brownie or blondie with chocolate sauce , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Pour the batter in the pan, level with an offset spatula, and bake for 23 minutes, on the middle rack. Check after 20 minutes, by gently pressing with the finger on top. If the cake springs back it is done, so you can take it out of the oven. Don't over bake the cake, as it will dry out, and you will place it again in the oven later. It is better to be under baked actually. But not as much as it to deflate when you take it out. Keep a close watch on it, and take it out as soon as it sets. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">After the cake is done,take it out on a heat proof surface, and let the oven on, increasing the temperature to 380 degrees F. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m4Inb2CIbtA/UFUPPvKWEYI/AAAAAAAAFo4/7B5Glk9EJ0E/s1600/IMG_20120829_173924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m4Inb2CIbtA/UFUPPvKWEYI/AAAAAAAAFo4/7B5Glk9EJ0E/s640/IMG_20120829_173924.jpg" title="Brownie or blondie with meringue topping and chocolate sauce , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">While the cake bakes, make the topping.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Wash and dry the mixer bowl and whip. Repeat the same process with the egg whites as you did for the cake. When the meringue is stiff and glossy sift over the corn starch, add the vinegar and gently mix.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Pour the meringue over the cake, level it well with an offset spatula, return pan to oven and bake at 380 F for 15 minutes, until the top is golden and crisp. You can put the meringue on the hot, just out of the oven cake. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PiFfknjzhFc/UFUPQrV9RhI/AAAAAAAAFpA/mLJuqZj6Z8k/s1600/IMG_20120829_175744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PiFfknjzhFc/UFUPQrV9RhI/AAAAAAAAFpA/mLJuqZj6Z8k/s640/IMG_20120829_175744.jpg" title="Brownie or blondie with meringue topping and chocolate sauce , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Let the cake cool down completely on a rack, in the pan. When cool using a sharp knife cut it in small, 1 inch squares. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Make the chocolate sauce.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">In a sauce pan mix well together the cocoa powder and sugar, so there are no cocoa lumps. Add the milk and butter, mix, and place on medium heat, mixing constantly. Get to a boil, and let it cook for 1 minute.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">In a medium bowl beat the egg yolks with 2-3 tablespoons of sugar. When the cocoa has boiled, take it off heat. Add one tablespoon of the hot mixture and add it to the yolks, mixing very well. Do this for several times, increasing to 2,3, 4 tablespoons of hot mixture you add every time, mixing well after each addition. This is in order to temper the eggs, so you don't get scrambled eggs. When the bowl is almost fool, return it's contents to the rest of cocoa mixture in the sauce pan, and mix well everything. The sauce should be glossy, thicker and delicious. Add the vanilla and mix. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3UM15P9ocz8/UFURIzwLNxI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/gNwrzbQyO0M/s1600/DSC03535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3UM15P9ocz8/UFURIzwLNxI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/gNwrzbQyO0M/s640/DSC03535.JPG" title="Brownie or blondie with meringue topping and chocolate sauce , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">With a spoon, pour hot chocolate sauce on each cold cake square. Or just pour it over, but slowly. The cake should be "swimming" in chocolate sauce. It is best to make the cake few hours in advance, so it has time to soak up the sauce. It keeps well for 2-3 days, in a cool dry place. I keep it in the oven after it cools. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Now stop thinking about calories, and eat!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Thank you, Ema! </span><br />
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-81713290197361853552012-09-08T04:25:00.000-07:002012-09-09T17:31:17.308-07:00Tiramisù in Mason jars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1swkWmPqkpk/UEsnkk3Q0aI/AAAAAAAAFno/jo319VRP01o/s1600/DSC03697.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1swkWmPqkpk/UEsnkk3Q0aI/AAAAAAAAFno/jo319VRP01o/s640/DSC03697.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">This post is about two firsts: my first Tiramisu</span><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"> and also the first time I make something in the famous and so cute Mason jars. I love the idea of using Mason jars. Especially this small wide mouth ones. They are perfect for individual cakes, pies, beverages or any other delicious treats. I have seen around the web so many creative uses for this jars that I can't wait to try and to come up with some new ones myself.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NqcjG7JJMr8/UEsjP3mrkBI/AAAAAAAAFms/Qo1UW5dp8kg/s1600/DSC03686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NqcjG7JJMr8/UEsjP3mrkBI/AAAAAAAAFms/Qo1UW5dp8kg/s640/DSC03686.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">About the Tiramisu: this is a basic and traditional recipe, and you will absolutely love it! I was never a big Tiramisu fan, but for some reason, maybe because I made it, and also had so much fun while making it, I absolutely loved this one, and can't wait to make it again. Make this dessert ahead of time, as it needs to chill for several hours before served, so plan accordingly. Is best to make it the day before, so it has time to chill over night. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1VbNT4DHEv8/UEsjFONgEdI/AAAAAAAAFmc/x8AhomAVF1s/s1600/DSC03661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1VbNT4DHEv8/UEsjFONgEdI/AAAAAAAAFmc/x8AhomAVF1s/s640/DSC03661.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Tiramisu is a relatively new Italian dessert, it seems to have been first mentioned in cookbooks around 1982-1983, although there are some that establish the creation of it in 1969. "Tirami su" means "pick-me-up" in Italian, and it most probably refers to the effect of the coffee and cacao used in the recipe, and I can attest it is quite accurate: we made the mistake of eating some before going to bed, the other night, and we could not fall asleep for a couple of hours. So yes, it does pick you up indeed. It is a good idea to avoid eating it at night. That is, if you can resist. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eOJ50zIjtE8/UEsjWEHFuzI/AAAAAAAAFm0/5YpUw4Xr0Y8/s1600/DSC03701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eOJ50zIjtE8/UEsjWEHFuzI/AAAAAAAAFm0/5YpUw4Xr0Y8/s640/DSC03701.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Most of the recipes are using Savoiardi biscuits, the Italian Lady fingers, the same ones I used for this <a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2012/04/bread-pudding-with-upgrade.html" target="_blank">bread pudding</a>. But I wanted to use instead my favorite sponge cake recipe, (pan di Spagna or chiffon cake) that is as easy to make as going to the store and buying the Savoiardi, so please try it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">This recipe made 12 portions (12 half pint jars ; half pint=236 ml) of Tiramisu. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">For the sponge cake:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">7 eggs</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">7 tablespoons vegetable oil (canola, sunflower or corn)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 1/2 cups all purpose flour</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 teaspoon baking powder</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 pinch salt</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract (I started using pure vanilla bean paste lately, as I adore seeing the small vanilla seeds in my desserts, and is more economical than using vanilla beans)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">For the syrup:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup strong brew espresso (I made 6 regular espressos, but you can make less, and dilute it with water to get to one cup, if you don't want it to be too strong, especially if you have kids ;) )</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/4 cup sweet Marsala wine</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/4 cup granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">For the Mascarpone cream:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">5 egg yolks</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/4 cup granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/2 cup sweet Marsala wine</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup Mascarpone cheese</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup heavy whipping cream</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2-3 tablespoons confectioner's sugar (powder sugar)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">You will also need:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3-4 tablespoons good quality cocoa powder</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">12 half pint jars</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Optional for garnish:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 pint of raspberries or other fresh berries/fruit of your choice </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">fresh mint</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Start by making the sponge cake, so it has time to cool:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C), and prepare a baking pan (9x13 inch) with parchment paper, or butter and flour. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Separate the eggs, putting the egg whites in the clean bowl of your mixer, and the yolks in another bowl and set aside.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Beat the egg whites on lowest speed for 30 seconds-1 minute, then increase the speed to medium-high and beat for 2-3 minutes until soft peaks form. Add the sugar gradually and continue beating on high for other 3-4 minutes to stiff peaks. Careful not to over beat it though. It has to look glossy not grainy for best results. But hey, no one will know that you over beat it, so don't worry, it should be OK. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Mix the egg yolks and oil very well. I use my blender for this step. Add the vanilla extract and mix.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Sift the flour, baking powder and salt together in another bowl.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">With the mixer on low, or even better with a wooden spoon or spatula, add the egg yolk mixture to the egg whites, slowly folding them in, just a few seconds. Add the flour mixture, and fold in gently, just until incorporated. This should mean 10-15 folding moves, or 10-15 seconds with the mixer on low.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Pour the batter in the pan, spread evenly using an off set spatula, and bake on the middle rack for 23-25 minutes. Check on it after 20 minutes pass. It is done when the cake springs back after gently pressing your finger on it, in the middle of the pan. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">When done take out and let it cool completely.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">While the cake bakes, make the mascarpone cream:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">First we will make a Zabaione:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Place a sauce pan or other small pot with an inch of water on fire, to get to a simmer. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Beat the egg yolks and the sugar on medium-high, preferably in a heat proof bowl, until fluffy and light, for about 5 minutes. Mix in the Marsala wine. Sweet Marsala is a delicious wine! Pour yourself a glass and cooking will be even more fun! You can substitute Marsala with Port or Madeira wine, any sweet wine you like really, or brandy, cognac, even rum.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Put the mixture in a heat proof bowl, over the pot of simmering water, on low heat. It is important for the water not to be boiling at all, just simmering, and the water not to be touching the bowl, otherwise you will end up with sweet scrambled eggs.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">With a whisk keep beating the mixture, constantly, for about 15 minutes, until it cooks and becomes thicker, airy, and super creamy and well, insanely delicious. Take off heat. You just made Zabaione! Zabaione is another Italian dessert staple. It is traditionally served simply over figs. Keep this recipe, you can use this cream in many delicious treats, or just by itself. It is highly addictive, though, be careful! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OGqpY5irrHs/UEsiJCdA0AI/AAAAAAAAFlU/Qc2SJtLiCgQ/s1600/DSC03612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OGqpY5irrHs/UEsiJCdA0AI/AAAAAAAAFlU/Qc2SJtLiCgQ/s640/DSC03612.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Let it cool, and place in the fridge for at least an hour, to cool completely.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">In another bowl mix the Mascarpone cheese gently, until soft, with a fork. Don't whip it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Using again your trusted mixer, beat the heavy cream and confectioner's sugar on medium-high for 3-4 minutes, to stiff peaks. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Gently fold in together the softened Mascarpone with the whipped cream. Pour the cold Zabaione on top, and mix everything, still very gently, just until combined... this is such a dainty delicate dessert! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">It would be best to let the cream chill in the fridge for a couple of hours. I did not. I have no patience what so ever! It still worked out fine.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Make the syrup:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Mix the espresso, wine and sugar in a sauce pan, and simmer for 3-4 minutes. Set aside and let it cool.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Now assembly everything:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Line you cute jars, the cake, syrup, cream and powdered cocoa, like in a assembly line. You can use any type of glasses too. </span><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">This recipe would look very elegant in Martini glasses, for example. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-onLWKRl4lyo/UEsiWv_OQKI/AAAAAAAAFlk/xJW7OwzFR8o/s1600/DSC03625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-onLWKRl4lyo/UEsiWv_OQKI/AAAAAAAAFlk/xJW7OwzFR8o/s640/DSC03625.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">You will need some round biscuit or cookie cutters, in same diameter as your jars, a small sifter, and optional an ice cream/cookie dough scoop.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Using the cookie cutter cut out circles of cake. Cut them very close to one another, so you get as many cake rounds as possible. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cftAWzjRC4M/UEsiQNYPMkI/AAAAAAAAFlc/2XFU74vSqSg/s1600/DSC03615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cftAWzjRC4M/UEsiQNYPMkI/AAAAAAAAFlc/2XFU74vSqSg/s640/DSC03615.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Place a tablespoon of Mascarpone cream in each jar. Place a cake round on top of it, with the bottom side (with no crust) facing up. Sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of coffee syrup over the cake. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ACcgsCXq8-g/UEsic4GjTsI/AAAAAAAAFls/PLoky9osgIs/s1600/DSC03635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ACcgsCXq8-g/UEsic4GjTsI/AAAAAAAAFls/PLoky9osgIs/s640/DSC03635.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Put two heaped tablespoons of Mascarpone cream on top of the cake round. I use an ice cream scoop, to make sure I put equal amounts of cream between the layers.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xz_l4vMyZfk/UEsij_B_ijI/AAAAAAAAFl0/X_8JvYc9iac/s1600/DSC03636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xz_l4vMyZfk/UEsij_B_ijI/AAAAAAAAFl0/X_8JvYc9iac/s640/DSC03636.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Using the small sifter, add a fine layer of cocoa powder on top. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Place another cake round, then syrup, then two tablespoons of cream, then sift cocoa. Repeat. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-by5icnOCw88/UEsiqexhbHI/AAAAAAAAFl8/8LsOP3E9qGE/s1600/DSC03649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-by5icnOCw88/UEsiqexhbHI/AAAAAAAAFl8/8LsOP3E9qGE/s640/DSC03649.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VqoLzyoz-WA/UEsixLiq5SI/AAAAAAAAFmE/B1tRPxoPfcE/s1600/DSC03650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VqoLzyoz-WA/UEsixLiq5SI/AAAAAAAAFmE/B1tRPxoPfcE/s640/DSC03650.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VJBAYH6gb04/UEsi3kFOmYI/AAAAAAAAFmM/T-8QBJEpPEU/s1600/DSC03653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VJBAYH6gb04/UEsi3kFOmYI/AAAAAAAAFmM/T-8QBJEpPEU/s640/DSC03653.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">The last layer has to be Mascarpone cream, dusted with a generous layer of sifted cocoa. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Chill in the fridge for several hours... at least 4, over night would be better... Eh, if you can't resist, go ahead an eat one immediately! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Garnish with the fresh fruit or whipped cream and fresh mint before serving or leave as it is. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HQbfDT2a-G4/UEsjJaWyBTI/AAAAAAAAFmk/blUvc0taHho/s1600/DSC03665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HQbfDT2a-G4/UEsjJaWyBTI/AAAAAAAAFmk/blUvc0taHho/s640/DSC03665.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">The great part of using jars, besides cuteness of course, is that you can cover them with lids, so they keep fresh longer, and they are so easy to transport, to a picnic or to work even! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">It is past 3 AM now and all I want is the last jar of Tiramisu we have left in the fridge. Must resist! Goodnight!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BbbMo5U8JA0/UEsnoVGtetI/AAAAAAAAFnw/kiRGRrcCWjI/s1600/DSC03699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BbbMo5U8JA0/UEsnoVGtetI/AAAAAAAAFnw/kiRGRrcCWjI/s640/DSC03699.JPG" title="Tiramisu in Mason jars , by Askanam " width="424" /></a></div>
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-21002654847646584152012-08-21T20:39:00.001-07:002012-12-19T15:23:17.750-08:00Sekerpare<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iSEbaNLfnIE/UDRQ-2QB9fI/AAAAAAAAFkQ/lGOE4AA3YL4/s1600/DSC03366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iSEbaNLfnIE/UDRQ-2QB9fI/AAAAAAAAFkQ/lGOE4AA3YL4/s640/DSC03366.JPG" title="Sekerpare - Turkish sweets on Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #666666;">If you are craving home made Turkish (or Middle Eastern) desserts, and you don't feel like spending hours in the kitchen, this, my friends, is the recipe for you. It is as easy as can be. Sekerpare (sheckerpar</span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">é) means</span></span><span style="color: #666666;"> "sugar bit". And they are sweet as sugar indeed. It is very similar to a cookie, but it is soaked in delicious syrup, like most of the Turkish sweets. Keep in mind though that you need to make this one day, or at least 10-12 hours before you want to serve them. </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAycDdbtxcg/UDRRFSfSx3I/AAAAAAAAFkY/JdH4hlZKTbY/s1600/DSC03424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vAycDdbtxcg/UDRRFSfSx3I/AAAAAAAAFkY/JdH4hlZKTbY/s640/DSC03424.JPG" title="Sekerpare - Turkish sweets on Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
Ingredients for 30-36 <b>Sekerpare</b> (one tray)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
1 stick softened butter (100-110 g)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1 cup confectioner's sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">4 egg yolks</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">4 cups flour, sifted</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon baking powder</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract . I started using vanilla bean paste, it is still quite liquid,but the nice part is that you get the vanilla seeds as well, and I love that. It is also much cheaper than using whole vanilla beans. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1 small pinch of salt</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">30-36 whole , raw, blanched nuts of your choice ( hazelnuts, macadamia, pine nuts, almonds, pistachio)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
For <b>the syrup</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">3 cups sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">3 cups water</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
Method:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
Start by making the syrup. In a medium sauce pan mix the sugar, water and lemon juice, bring to a boil, then let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. Turn the heat off, and add the vanilla extract, mix and set aside. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
In a bowl beat the sugar and butter for 2-3 minutes, then add 3 of the egg yolks and vanilla extract and mix. You will need one egg yolk to brush the top of the cookies. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Add the baking powder, salt and flour, mixing just until you get an oily soft dough, but hard enough not to stick to your hands, and to be able to make small balls out of it. Careful not to over work the dough. Adjust the flour quantity if needed. Even if it looks a little crumbly don't worry, it will get smooth when shaping it.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-988C4UOSWD8/UDRQyu5qizI/AAAAAAAAFkA/rhS9UpUm7uA/s1600/DSC03355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-988C4UOSWD8/UDRQyu5qizI/AAAAAAAAFkA/rhS9UpUm7uA/s640/DSC03355.JPG" title="Sekerpare - Turkish sweets on Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
In order to have all the cookies same size, it is best to use a small ice cream scoop (25 mm or 20 mm), the one that you use for your regular cookies. Sekerpare must be the size of a walnut. Scoop some of the dough and using your hands and make balls out of it, placing them on a sheet pan, covered with parchment paper.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9l6MoIHs2qw/UDRQ5M8UwjI/AAAAAAAAFkI/p2FY-CFd0SQ/s1600/DSC03356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9l6MoIHs2qw/UDRQ5M8UwjI/AAAAAAAAFkI/p2FY-CFd0SQ/s640/DSC03356.JPG" title="Sekerpare - Turkish sweets on Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
When done, using a pastry brush, gently brush the tops with egg yolk. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Place a nut in the middle of each cookie, pressing gently in order to flatten it a bit. Even if it cracks a little it is fine, if not even better, as it will be easier for it to absorb the syrup. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CXHTYGASYWU/UDRSSoOE6GI/AAAAAAAAFkg/XCTLCO9Q8U0/s1600/DSC03361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CXHTYGASYWU/UDRSSoOE6GI/AAAAAAAAFkg/XCTLCO9Q8U0/s640/DSC03361.JPG" title="Sekerpare - Turkish sweets on Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Bake the cookies for about 40 minutes.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Quickly move the cookies in a deeper, and smaller dish, so they fit snugly. </span><br />
<b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The secret to great Sekerpare is that you pour the lukewarm syrup on top of the hot, straight out of the oven cookies, then cover the dish. The syrup must not be cold, nor hot. The cookies must be hot.</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Let the Sekerpare soak up the syrup overnight, on the counter. They will be ready to serve the second day. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SQL6USlDnlw/UDRSXKR0npI/AAAAAAAAFko/-cxZYHXSo4Y/s1600/IMG_20120817_220624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SQL6USlDnlw/UDRSXKR0npI/AAAAAAAAFko/-cxZYHXSo4Y/s640/IMG_20120817_220624.jpg" title="Sekerpare - Turkish sweets on Askanam" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I prefer most of my desserts with a dollop of vanilla ice cream on top, and I recommend you try Sekerpare this way as well, it goes really well. Or with fresh whipped cream. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Enjoy!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br />
Ramazan Bayraminiz mubarek bolsun!</span>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-85078602110681608802012-08-08T19:48:00.000-07:002012-08-08T20:02:05.114-07:00Another bread pudding<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Yes indeed, I do love bread pudding a lot! And now that I discovered bourbon sauce, I like it even more! </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iG1W68_BFBg/UCMifDOv_3I/AAAAAAAAFiQ/eLfEHGcsJ0s/s1600/DSC03288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iG1W68_BFBg/UCMifDOv_3I/AAAAAAAAFiQ/eLfEHGcsJ0s/s640/DSC03288.JPG" title="Askanam brioche bread pudding with bourbon sauce" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I made this bread pudding for breakfast the other day, and I was looking for something to make it even better, and stumbled upon this amazing sauce, so simple and fast to make and so delicious. I would put this on everything!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">To make the <b>bread pudding</b> :</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients for 4 servings</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-2 cups brioche bread, cut in 1 inch cubes. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Cut the bread and let it stand on the counter for few hours, or over night, and if you have stale bread is even better. You can actually use any kind of bread, if it is not with olives, rosemary or any savory ingredient. Any regular bread will do. Or croissants, and various pastries that are getting old, you can use them in this recipe. Isn't this great? No more waist, and more yumminess in your life!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-4 whole eggs, beaten</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-2/3 cups granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-2 cups of milk</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick or 4 tablespoons) softened, and some more for greasing the pan</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">- 1 pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (skip it if you want)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-1/2 cup slivered almonds (or any other nuts you like)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 C)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">In a big bowl beat together eggs and sugar, add the milk, vanilla and nutmeg, and mix well. Drop in the cubed bread, mix gently, and let sit in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. I actually prep everything the night before, and let it in the fridge over night. Pour everything in the pan you will bake it in. i like to use individual ramekins, but a deep dish or other deep pan should work just as fine. Mix the butter and nuts and sprinkle on top, then bake the pudding for 40-45 minutes (30-35 if you use ramekins).</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W-2Q7njcKx0/UCMikOe6-3I/AAAAAAAAFiY/Z7WRpjjcRVQ/s1600/DSC03287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W-2Q7njcKx0/UCMikOe6-3I/AAAAAAAAFiY/Z7WRpjjcRVQ/s640/DSC03287.JPG" title="Askanam brioche bread pudding with bourbon sauce" width="424" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">While the pudding cools slightly, make the </span><b style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: large;">sauce</span></b><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-1 cup granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-1 stick butter (8 tablespoons) melted</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-1 egg , beaten</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">-3 tablespoons bourbon or brandy , even rum (I don't have bourbon in the house and used some champagne instead, and it works great too)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">In a sauce pan beat the egg and sugar, add the melted butter and vanilla and mix well. Put on medium heat and whisking continuously let it cook for 5-7 minutes, until the sugar melts, and it starts to thicken just a little. To be more precise use a thermometer, and wait for the sauce to get to 150 degrees F. Add the brandy and mix well, keeping on heat for 2-3 minutes, for the alcohol to evaporate a little. If you want a stronger alcohol taste you can skip this step. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUzbVDQpfzA/UCMkXagtL-I/AAAAAAAAFig/HoON1qK0-aQ/s1600/DSC03289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUzbVDQpfzA/UCMkXagtL-I/AAAAAAAAFig/HoON1qK0-aQ/s640/DSC03289.JPG" title="Askanam brioche bread pudding with bourbon sauce" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Pour the hot sauce over the bread pudding, and serve. I served it with a dollop of whipped cream on top, fresh mint and a cherry. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: x-small;">Recipe adapted from Paula Deen. </span><br />
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-66791352305923836542012-08-02T23:43:00.000-07:002012-08-03T14:32:40.767-07:00Apricot cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9G9-RMEvUqI/UBtwLbhit9I/AAAAAAAAFhY/rcVcyOOXLWk/s1600/DSC03264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9G9-RMEvUqI/UBtwLbhit9I/AAAAAAAAFhY/rcVcyOOXLWk/s640/DSC03264.JPG" title="Askanam- apricot cupcakes with meringue frosting " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Our cousin E has an amazing "blondie" recipe that she was so kind and shared with me, and I plan sharing with you on this blog soon! But until then I used part of that delicious recipe and experimented with some cupcakes today. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3cXBq21T_7o/UBtwPCYhifI/AAAAAAAAFhg/DeIwIzELV44/s1600/DSC03266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3cXBq21T_7o/UBtwPCYhifI/AAAAAAAAFhg/DeIwIzELV44/s640/DSC03266.JPG" title="Askanam- apricot cupcakes with meringue frosting " width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="250" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6693770.1258;sz=300x250;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000000000373657;pid=561100;usg=AFHzDLuZjuZo6Gj_zr2ZLBD9XEThZwCbdg;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.surlatable.com%252Fproduct%252FPRO-561100%252F;pubid=566442;price=%2415.00;title=Wilton+12-Color+Cookie+Icing+Kit;merc=Sur+La+Table;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.surlatable.com%2Fimages%2Fcustomers%2Fc1079%2FPRO-561100%2Fgenerated%2FPRO-561100_Default_1_430x430.jpg;width=135;height=135" vspace="0" width="300"></iframe></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">These are fluffy and light as air, filled with fresh apricots, as they are in full season, and frosted with a velvety meringue. The apricots bake inside the cupcake and transform in this creamy delicious filling. I believe it is a perfect combination between the sweetness of the cake, tartness of the apricots and creaminess of the meringue. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9LUzEvV7so/UBtwHoaCVmI/AAAAAAAAFhQ/z8rRSEKZCnc/s1600/DSC03241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9LUzEvV7so/UBtwHoaCVmI/AAAAAAAAFhQ/z8rRSEKZCnc/s640/DSC03241.JPG" title="Askanam- apricot cupcakes with meringue frosting " width="424" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"> <iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="250" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6693770.1251;sz=300x250;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000000000373657;pid=869503;usg=AFHzDLtbFaHhkzwGaUEDWWVJdRvWLMZAhQ;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.surlatable.com%252Fproduct%252FPRO-869503%252F;pubid=566442;price=%2430.00;title=Edible+Gold%2C+Powder%2C+100mg+Shaker;merc=Sur+La+Table;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.surlatable.com%2Fimages%2Fcustomers%2Fc1079%2FPRO-869503%2Fgenerated%2FPRO-869503_Default_1_430x430.jpg;width=135;height=135" vspace="0" width="300"></iframe></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients (for 12 cupcakes):</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3 eggs, separated</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/2 cup granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3 tablespoons vegetable oil (sunflower or canola)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 1/4 cup all purpose flour</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/2 teaspoon baking powder</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 small pinch of salt</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract ( you can use one teaspoon, I love vanilla and tend to exaggerate )</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">6 ripe fresh apricots, pitted, cut in half. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 C)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Line your cupcake pan with your favorite cupcake liners.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1. Separate the eggs, putting the egg whites in the clean (wipe the bowl with a paper towel and lemon juice or vinegar to remove any fat traces) bowl of your electric mixer (don't use plastic bowls, use glass, stainless steel, copper or ceramic ones) and the egg yolks in another bowl.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2. Start beating the egg whites, on low for 30 seconds, then on medium-high for about 3-4 minutes, or until soft peaks form.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3. Gradually add the sugar, and beat another 2 minutes or so, until it gets stiff and glossy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">4. Whisk the egg yolks with the vegetable oil well, then add to this the vanilla extract and mix.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">5. Add the egg yolk mixture over the beaten egg whites, and using a spatula or wooden spoon fold in, slowly.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">6. Sift over the eggs the flour, salt and baking powder. Fold in carefully, just until combined.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">The batter should be fluffy but not runny, should keep it's shape, like in the photo bellow.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-21JEi6GPoz8/UBtwC4HDglI/AAAAAAAAFhA/LJO_1l_N_3c/s1600/DSC03229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-21JEi6GPoz8/UBtwC4HDglI/AAAAAAAAFhA/LJO_1l_N_3c/s640/DSC03229.JPG" title="Askanam- apricot cupcakes with meringue frosting " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">7. With the help of an ice cream scoop or spoon, fill the cupcake liners with the batter, up to half of the height.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">8. Place over the batter half of apricot</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KaaQ4j5cpbU/UBtwEy6-V4I/AAAAAAAAFhI/qucM8NeZyug/s1600/DSC03233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KaaQ4j5cpbU/UBtwEy6-V4I/AAAAAAAAFhI/qucM8NeZyug/s640/DSC03233.JPG" title="Askanam- apricot cupcakes with meringue frosting " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">9. Cover the apricot with another spoon of batter. In the end the cupcakes should be filled up to two thirds.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">10. Bake cupcakes on the middle rack of the oven for 17-20 minutes, depending on your oven, until puffed up and golden on top.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">11. Carefully take the pan out of the oven, and let the cupcakes cool on a cooling rack.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Make the meringue frosting:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup egg whites (egg whites from 4-5 eggs)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (I use Tahitian vanilla extract for this)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 teaspoon lemon juice or almond extract (you can also skip this all together)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Gel food coloring of your choice (I used Americolor soft gel food coloring in color Peach, 3 tiny drops)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1. Put a medium sauce pan with some water on heat to get to a simmer.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2. In the clean bowl of your mixer add the egg whites and sugar, and place the bowl over the simmering pot, taking care that it does not touch the water and fits snugly. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3. With a clean hand whisk beat slowly but constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved, and the mixture is hot to the touch. It should take 5-7 minutes. To be more precise use a candy thermometer, and take them off the heat when they reach 140 degrees F.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">4. Place the bowl on the mixer,after wiping the bottom dry and using the whisk attachment beat them on medium speed until soft peaks form, and the bowl cools down. You can also do this by hand, it does not take too long.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">5. Add the lemon juice (or almond extract if you wish), vanilla extract and food coloring. Careful to add the food coloring drop by drop, not too much at once, to make sure you get the desired hue. If you want a deeper color you can always add more later. The food coloring is pretty strong, and very little is needed. Beat everything on medium high for couple more minutes, until glossy and stiff peaks form. It is important not to over beat it, as it will start to look grainy, and will be hard to pipe and of course not look as good. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">6. Fill a piping bag fitted with a tip of your choice, with the meringue, making sure there are no air bubble left. This is kind of tricky, but it is worth taking care of if you want the frosting to look as perfect as possible. I used a big simple round piping tip to achieve this classic look. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">This meringue frosting is best used immediately, so be sure to start making it right before you will use it. Also it is best eaten the same day, as it does not keep well. (maybe one night in the fridge won't ruin it though, but it won't be as good). The best part of this frosting is that it is pure white, and it makes so much easier coloring it in pale pastel hues, and the colors stay true. It is also very easy to handle and frost/pipe it on your desserts. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">To make my cupcakes fabulous I decorated them with edible golden stars. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">So, what do you think?</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EyhfsErQEn4/UBtwT57tHII/AAAAAAAAFho/LqJId6bbcvU/s1600/DSC03271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EyhfsErQEn4/UBtwT57tHII/AAAAAAAAFho/LqJId6bbcvU/s640/DSC03271.JPG" title="Askanam- apricot cupcakes with meringue frosting " width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="250" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6693770.1259;sz=300x250;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000000000373657;pid=770636;usg=AFHzDLvBWy6RXw1czidmMHw4zq780LqLVQ;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.surlatable.com%252Fproduct%252FPRO-170218%252F;pubid=566442;price=%2412.98;title=Nordic+Ware+Mini+Filled+Cupcake+Pan;merc=Sur+La+Table;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.surlatable.com%2Fimages%2Fcustomers%2Fc1079%2FPRO-170218%2Fgenerated%2FPRO-170218_Default_1_430x430.jpg;width=135;height=135" vspace="0" width="300"></iframe>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-38578339943045512032012-08-01T14:50:00.000-07:002012-08-01T14:51:56.691-07:00Chocolate on chocolate mascarpone bundt cake<br />
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Because a day without chocolate is a day lost, I give you with no further introduction the chocolate on chocolate mascarpone bundt cake</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b3BMt-JeI0E/UBmglL6GTHI/AAAAAAAAFgI/lKlErDIeGaw/s1600/DSC02887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b3BMt-JeI0E/UBmglL6GTHI/AAAAAAAAFgI/lKlErDIeGaw/s640/DSC02887.JPG" title="Askanam chocolate bundt cake" width="420" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4iMuw3pA6no/UBmgsPbOCPI/AAAAAAAAFgY/yKMqyCf59qs/s1600/DSC02894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4iMuw3pA6no/UBmgsPbOCPI/AAAAAAAAFgY/yKMqyCf59qs/s640/DSC02894.JPG" title="Askanam chocolate bundt cake" width="420" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="250" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6693770.1204;sz=300x250;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000000000373657;pid=648832;usg=AFHzDLvxaz5ACBdw7O5iD-5Zgrz4gfBy-Q;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.surlatable.com%252Fproduct%252FPRO-648832%252F;pubid=566442;price=%2419.98;title=Nordic+Ware+Fleur+de+Lis+Bundt+Pan;merc=Sur+La+Table;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.surlatable.com%2Fimages%2Fcustomers%2Fc1079%2FPRO-648832%2Fgenerated%2FPRO-648832_Default_1_430x430.jpg;width=135;height=135" vspace="0" width="300"></iframe></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Chocolate bundt cake </span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<strong style="line-height: 16px;"><em><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients</span></em></strong></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2+1/2 cups all-purpose flour</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/4 cup cocoa</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 tsp baking powder</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">3/4 tsp salt</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup mascarpone</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup heavy cream</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">7 ounces chocolate, chopped</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">8 ounces butter, plus more for pan</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 + 1/4 cups sugar</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">5 eggs </span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 tbs pure vanilla extract</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<strong><em><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Method</span></em></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ol style="margin: 0px 0px 5px 20px; padding: 0px 10px 0px 20px; text-align: justify;">
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Preheat your oven to 325F (170C).</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Butter a 14-cup Bundt cake pan and set aside. If your pan has a lot of corners and complicated shapes, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and use a pastry brush to spread the butter all over the pan, getting in all the corners, so that your cake comes out easily. </span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sift flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt into a large mixing bowl. Whisk and set aside.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">In a small saucepan, bring cream to a boil. Place chopped chocolate in a small bowl and pour hot cream, through a sieve, over the chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth and creamy in texture.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Add mascarpone and mix. Let aside to cool.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Cream butter and sugar with a mixer until fluffy.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Add the eggs and beat until combined.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Stir in vanilla extract.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">On low speed, add the flour mixture in three equal amounts alternating with the chocolate batter, ending with flour.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Pour the batter into the Bundt pan and bake for 55-60 minutes (or until a wooden toothpick insterted in center comes out clean). If the toothpick is wet, bake 5 more minutes and check again.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Let cool in pan, invert onto a serving plate and start preparing the chocolate ganache glaze.</span></li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b3C9aVPihzA/UBmgienuyGI/AAAAAAAAFgA/5u1KbkoN9XU/s1600/DSC02880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="420" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b3C9aVPihzA/UBmgienuyGI/AAAAAAAAFgA/5u1KbkoN9XU/s640/DSC02880.JPG" title="Askanam chocolate bundt cake" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<strong><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></strong></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Chocolate glaze</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<strong><em><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients</span></em></strong></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">4.5 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup heavy cream</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 tbsp butter</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/4 cup almond slivers</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 8px 0px 5px; text-align: justify;">
<strong><em><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Method</span></em></strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ol style="margin: 0px 0px 5px 20px; padding: 0px 10px 0px 20px; text-align: justify;">
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">In a small saucepan, bring cream to a boil.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Add chopped chocolate and butter and let stand without mixing for 3-4 minutes.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Stir until smooth and creamy in texture.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Let stand, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Pour over the cooled cake</span></li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px 5px 5px 0px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sprinkle some almond slivers on top for some crunch</span></li>
</ol>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dToWCCZI-Lg/UBmgoZoP8RI/AAAAAAAAFgQ/WKFxjkatuG4/s1600/DSC02891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="420" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dToWCCZI-Lg/UBmgoZoP8RI/AAAAAAAAFgQ/WKFxjkatuG4/s640/DSC02891.JPG" title="Askanam chocolate bundt cake" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UE4emd2geq4/UBmgDgX2SbI/AAAAAAAAFfw/Ki4k-KpRTNU/s1600/DSC02884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="630" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UE4emd2geq4/UBmgDgX2SbI/AAAAAAAAFfw/Ki4k-KpRTNU/s640/DSC02884.JPG" title="Askanam chocolate bundt cake" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-46635025046515687242012-07-01T23:41:00.000-07:002012-09-11T18:53:42.034-07:00Starry cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hKw1gHX5eRc/T_E_1Y3cEkI/AAAAAAAAFdw/hGCbJWquJrw/s1600/DSC03052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LTdMF-nXY2M/T_SZRPNVj8I/AAAAAAAAFfY/VG5aUlHy7KM/s1600/DSC03050+copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LTdMF-nXY2M/T_SZRPNVj8I/AAAAAAAAFfY/VG5aUlHy7KM/s640/DSC03050+copy.JPG" title="Hidden star inside fourth of july red white and blue cupcake recipe and turorial by Askanam" width="630" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Fourth of July baking took over my kitchen, and so I also made this cute little cupcakes. What is special about them is a hidden white star you find inside them when cut. It is so unexpected, pretty and festive! Perfect to take to a 4th of July barbecue.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8P5BGNO1Q9o/T_SWoNGo6fI/AAAAAAAAFe4/JDXIf1iOggI/s1600/DSC03060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8P5BGNO1Q9o/T_SWoNGo6fI/AAAAAAAAFe4/JDXIf1iOggI/s640/DSC03060.JPG" title="Hidden star inside fourth of july red white and blue cupcake recipe and turorial by Askanam" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;">To make the cupcakes I used the same white cake recipe as for the </span><a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2012/07/fourth-of-july-epic-cake.html" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">Fourth of July Cake</a><span style="background-color: white;">. Make one recipe of the cake, and bake it in a sheet pan lined with parchment paper, at 325 degrees F, for 20 minutes. Let it cool to room temperature, then pop it in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Freezing the cake sheet will make it much easier to cut and then stand in the cupcake pan. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Prepare your cupcake pan, using your favorite cupcake liners.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Preheat oven at 325 degrees F. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Prepare another recipe of the white cake, tinting it at the end with blue gel food coloring, or any other color you wan to use, just make sure the stars and the other batter have different colors. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HEu501NVplg/T_E_ktv-zpI/AAAAAAAAFdI/xmIJSFUzGbY/s1600/DSC02965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aa4Z4KjSeRY/T_E_sbbFLEI/AAAAAAAAFdY/d1FsVSvjLqI/s1600/DSC02969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aa4Z4KjSeRY/T_E_sbbFLEI/AAAAAAAAFdY/d1FsVSvjLqI/s640/DSC02969.JPG" title="Hidden star inside fourth of july red white and blue cupcake recipe and turorial by Askanam" width="640" /></a><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">With a 2-2.5 inch star shaped cookie cutter, cut out stars out of the chilled cake sheet. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Aa4Z4KjSeRY/T_E_sbbFLEI/AAAAAAAAFdY/d1FsVSvjLqI/s1600/DSC02969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Place a star, standing on two of it's five little feet, in the center of each cupcake liner, and make you sure you put all of them on the same line, so that you will remember where the stars are facing. This is important. I like to put them paralel to the pan's edge. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qRXpBysA9MQ/T_E_oqETECI/AAAAAAAAFdQ/5yzGY6EwqDI/s1600/DSC02967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cleAQx2GYhE/T_SYiVurStI/AAAAAAAAFfQ/nPy1rVoI1I4/s1600/DSC02967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cleAQx2GYhE/T_SYiVurStI/AAAAAAAAFfQ/nPy1rVoI1I4/s640/DSC02967.JPG" title="Hidden star inside fourth of july red white and blue cupcake recipe and turorial by Askanam" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: large;">Using a spoon, carefully spoon blue/colored batter in front, and back of the star, so that it is helps it stand. If you just pour the batter on top you risk the star to fall, and it won't stand strait. Keep adding batter in the cupcake liner, up to 2/3 of it's height, as you would normally do for regular cupcakes. Carefully place the pan in the preheated oven, and bake for 20 minutes. Check them with a toothpick to make sure they are done. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Let them cool on a wire rack in the pan.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Take a small sharp knife and make small superficial cuts on top of the cupcakes, all the way across, till the paper, on the same line as the stars inside, so after you take the cupcakes out of the pan, you will be able to see exactly what way the stars are oriented. The cut won't be obvious unless you look carefully.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Prepare your favorite cupcake frosting recipe. I used Swiss meringue buttercream on some , and cream cheese frosting on others. (left overs from the cake :) )</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kGslLwT6j9Q/T_E_3iGQIMI/AAAAAAAAFd4/l6Md_vW0fUc/s1600/DSC03053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6mDXgCTyGjc/T_SWmdWwMyI/AAAAAAAAFew/yMrdaO5u8sY/s1600/DSC03049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6mDXgCTyGjc/T_SWmdWwMyI/AAAAAAAAFew/yMrdaO5u8sY/s640/DSC03049.JPG" title="Hidden star inside fourth of july red white and blue cupcake recipe and turorial by Askanam" width="424" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Frost the cupcakes to your liking, but remember not to cover the cut near the paper liner, so you can still see the sign you made, and so you can cut them when serving, to make the stars show up! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">You can use this technique for making many fun cupcakes. You could make pink hearts inside of Valentine's Day cupcakes for example!</span>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-34609243148248222012-07-01T20:52:00.000-07:002012-07-02T15:19:49.696-07:00"Fourth of July" cake<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I was really excited to try making my first Fourth of July "Independence Day" cake, and here is what it turned out like!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VRj_WZmXeNw/T_EU8t8HU2I/AAAAAAAAFcs/zMs7FIrtS5Q/s1600/DSC03083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VRj_WZmXeNw/T_EU8t8HU2I/AAAAAAAAFcs/zMs7FIrtS5Q/s640/DSC03083.JPG" title="fourth of july cake, red white and blue" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">It was so much fun making it! But it took two days... </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pFtgRDe7wng/T_EU0XipG7I/AAAAAAAAFcU/bdJ5UKnfrqc/s1600/DSC03017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pFtgRDe7wng/T_EU0XipG7I/AAAAAAAAFcU/bdJ5UKnfrqc/s640/DSC03017.JPG" title="fourth of july cake, red white and blue" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: large;">First day I made the marshmallows, as they had to have time to set overnight, and baked the cake layers too, letting them chill overnight in the fridge, so that it would be easier to cut and handle when assembling the cake. Today I made the filling and frosting, and put everything together. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-ujoGHH34Y/T_EUN7nfPkI/AAAAAAAAFa0/Vbj8lv7st3g/s1600/DSC02971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-ujoGHH34Y/T_EUN7nfPkI/AAAAAAAAFa0/Vbj8lv7st3g/s640/DSC02971.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6USiWzV5MHo/T_EURbRnfQI/AAAAAAAAFa8/7H79yVc933c/s1600/DSC02974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6USiWzV5MHo/T_EURbRnfQI/AAAAAAAAFa8/7H79yVc933c/s640/DSC02974.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666;">I used </span><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/homemade-marshmallows-recipe/index.html" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">Alton Brown's</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666;"> marshmallow recipe. They are very easy to make, and it is so much fun to be able to make your own colors and shapes! I made one batch, spread it on a 9 by 13 inch pan, and next day I cut them with a cookie cutter. So easy! </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VQpLAPkzRRk/T_EUKdt4tPI/AAAAAAAAFas/fWN44vaki8s/s1600/DSC02964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VQpLAPkzRRk/T_EUKdt4tPI/AAAAAAAAFas/fWN44vaki8s/s640/DSC02964.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Agw6rodSz7k/T_EUVslqDsI/AAAAAAAAFbE/qpVH4l444UQ/s1600/DSC02975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Agw6rodSz7k/T_EUVslqDsI/AAAAAAAAFbE/qpVH4l444UQ/s640/DSC02975.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"> <span style="background-color: white;">I baked 3 batches of regular white sponge cake, this means 6 7 inch pans, leaving one (2 pans) all white, while tinting with food coloring the other two in a vivid red. To make white sponge cake I just replace the egg quantity in my regular vanilla cake recipe, with a same quantity of egg whites only. For the batter recipe, you can check my "</span><a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2011/11/perfect-vanilla-cake.html" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">Perfect vanilla cake</a><span style="background-color: white;">"</span><span style="background-color: white;"> recipe.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1RLLAMv7_fU/T_EUZeTWw_I/AAAAAAAAFbM/mtUTfIyNT-s/s1600/DSC02976.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1RLLAMv7_fU/T_EUZeTWw_I/AAAAAAAAFbM/mtUTfIyNT-s/s640/DSC02976.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I then cut out the domed upper part of each baked cake, so that it would be perfect straight. Then cut it in two equal layers, using a cake leveler, having now 8 layers of red cake, and 4 of white cake. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: large;">This tool is very handy when making layered cakes like this. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-size: large;">I used only five of the red cake, for symmetry. Also It was dangerous to make the cake taller, it is 8 inches tall as it is, and only 7 inches in diameter! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">For filling I used the cream cheese frosting recipe that you can also find in the <a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2011/11/perfect-vanilla-cake.html" target="_blank">"Perfect vanilla cake"</a> post. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T95YbFZez2A/T_EUcAe0vRI/AAAAAAAAFbU/DavfNugNAuQ/s1600/DSC02979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T95YbFZez2A/T_EUcAe0vRI/AAAAAAAAFbU/DavfNugNAuQ/s640/DSC02979.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"> Placing pieces of parchment paper under the cake helps keep clean the cake stand while frosting it! After finishing frosting gently pull them out and you have a clean stand! This is very helpful especially when using bright colored frosting, like the blue one I used.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oSbVT8-XDrw/T_EUfUC0x8I/AAAAAAAAFbc/oJbBLdYVGT0/s1600/DSC02981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oSbVT8-XDrw/T_EUfUC0x8I/AAAAAAAAFbc/oJbBLdYVGT0/s640/DSC02981.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I started assembling the cake with a red layer, alternating with a white one, and so on, and finishing with a red layer as well. In between the layers I used a dollop of cream cheese frosting only. Using a large ice cream scoop for picking up the cream ensures you have equal amounts of it between layers. I decided on this filling because it is a little thicker, and would hold better under the weight of the cake. This is a huge cake, about 8 inches tall, so you have to take in consideration it's stability. Having the cake layers chilled also helps a lot. You can also freeze them before, but chilling was enough.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EK-NmrhYeDY/T_EUibj-7xI/AAAAAAAAFbk/8cVFY6CemLE/s1600/DSC02986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EK-NmrhYeDY/T_EUibj-7xI/AAAAAAAAFbk/8cVFY6CemLE/s640/DSC02986.JPG" title="fourth of july cake, red white and blue" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">After finishing layering, I covered everything with a Swiss meringue buttercream, because it is a very white cream, so tinting it a bright blue is easier, and gives you a nice color. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D7nfpsBD_t4/T_EUlU-PWOI/AAAAAAAAFbs/Ddoe7KNVRd8/s1600/DSC02988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D7nfpsBD_t4/T_EUlU-PWOI/AAAAAAAAFbs/Ddoe7KNVRd8/s640/DSC02988.JPG" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p73t397jkk4/T_EUooi_jBI/AAAAAAAAFb0/_gzywqSK_us/s1600/DSC02989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p73t397jkk4/T_EUooi_jBI/AAAAAAAAFb0/_gzywqSK_us/s640/DSC02989.JPG" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"> Place a dollop of frosting on top, and using an offset spatula crumble coat the cake first. This means putting a thin layer of frosting all over it, so the crumbles won't get in your finishing layer of frosting. After crumble coating it, let it chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes, then continue with the rest of the frosting.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jqw-zyq9Tgo/T_EUrqp1MhI/AAAAAAAAFb8/H09chhjqFX0/s1600/DSC02991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jqw-zyq9Tgo/T_EUrqp1MhI/AAAAAAAAFb8/H09chhjqFX0/s640/DSC02991.JPG" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AtwRx_vWcF4/T_EUvIRUCaI/AAAAAAAAFcE/8Uro8wg64lo/s1600/DSC02995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AtwRx_vWcF4/T_EUvIRUCaI/AAAAAAAAFcE/8Uro8wg64lo/s640/DSC02995.JPG" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">The recipe for the meringue buttercream:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup egg whites</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 cups granulated sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3 sticks softened but cold butter, cut in cubes</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon pure Tahitian vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">small pinch of salt</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">5 drops of Royal Blue Ateco gel food coloring</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Wipe the clean bowl and whisk attachment of your stand or regular mixer and a hand whisk with a paper towel with vinegar or lemon juice, to make sure you remove all traces of grease.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Put a sauce pan with 2-3 cups of water on heat, and let get to a simmer. Mix the egg whites with sugar in the mixer bowl, and place it over the sauce pan, making sure the bowl does not touch the simmering water bellow. Mix continuously with a whisk, until the egg and sugar mixture gets to 140 degrees F. You can use a candy thermometer. I did not have one, but for this cake went and got one at Sur la Table, for $12. This little gadget is not expensive but it helps you so much in the kitchen, from making candy and marshmallow, to playing with chocolate or getting a perfect steak or turkey!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">If you don't have one just heat everything for 6-8 minutes, until all the sugar is melted, and the egg whites are quite warm, but you must be able to touch it, so not very warm. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Place the bowl on the mixer, and let it whip for 5-6 minutes on medium heat, until you get a glossy meringue, and the bowl reaches a neutral temperature to the touch.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Change the whisk with the paddle attachment, and with the mixer on slow, add the butter cubes one by one, until incorporated, and the cream is spreadable. If it is too runny, the butter might have been to warm. Put the bowl in the fridge to cool fo 10-15 minutes, then beat again. If the mixture curdles, keep beating and it will come together. At the end add the vanilla, salt and food coloring. Mix.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Use the frosting immediately. If not you can keep it in the fridge or even freeze it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">After frosting the cake with the blue buttercream, I made a cake topper using my marshmallow stars. I wanted white stars to put on the blue cake, and marshmallows seemed the perfect choice for USA's Independence Day, because they are sooo... American! An explosion of stars on a beautiful blue is what I wanted. I am happy how it turned out!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bcrgt3VJlqQ/T_EUxbn5swI/AAAAAAAAFcM/LoQLQc_LfLg/s1600/DSC02999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bcrgt3VJlqQ/T_EUxbn5swI/AAAAAAAAFcM/LoQLQc_LfLg/s640/DSC02999.JPG" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-akQrqrGe06c/T_EU3LuD4XI/AAAAAAAAFcc/qEolgba7Si4/s1600/DSC03070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-akQrqrGe06c/T_EU3LuD4XI/AAAAAAAAFcc/qEolgba7Si4/s640/DSC03070.JPG" title="fourth of july cake, red white and blue" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1EtaEAF7fHY/T_EU58Um8FI/AAAAAAAAFck/7nDkvPL2l4w/s1600/DSC03074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1EtaEAF7fHY/T_EU58Um8FI/AAAAAAAAFck/7nDkvPL2l4w/s640/DSC03074.JPG" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5ljasxbXog/T_EVB0E2H6I/AAAAAAAAFc8/FHJ7gEBNNMY/s1600/DSC03086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5ljasxbXog/T_EVB0E2H6I/AAAAAAAAFc8/FHJ7gEBNNMY/s640/DSC03086.JPG" title="fourth of july cake, red white and blue" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">The red and white striped "stick" holding the largest star is actually a paper beverage straw! ;)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">So here you have it, a 9 layers cream cheese frosting filled, red,white and blue, taller than wide cake, covered in blue meringue buttercream and topped with an explosion of homemade marshmallow stars!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YI4TCc5L5ME/T_EU_dz7CfI/AAAAAAAAFc0/X3a7sz5i4zc/s1600/DSC03085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YI4TCc5L5ME/T_EU_dz7CfI/AAAAAAAAFc0/X3a7sz5i4zc/s640/DSC03085.JPG" title="fourth of july cake, red white and blue" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Happy 4th of July, everyone!</span>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-27104835609094656292012-06-22T14:36:00.000-07:002012-06-22T14:52:37.100-07:00Rustic fish<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Last night wanted to cook something fast and simple, and it turned out to be one of the best things ever. The bad photos don't do this meal justice, but trust me, you will love it! So please try to make this! </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Fish in tomato lemon sauce, creamy polenta and roasted tomatoes.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6pE_3J3czXE/T-TjwwS2NSI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/9_VtFydAyWw/s1600/DSC02923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6pE_3J3czXE/T-TjwwS2NSI/AAAAAAAAFZ4/9_VtFydAyWw/s640/DSC02923.JPG" title="fish and polenta" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Here is how to make it:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Start with the polenta, as it takes the longest to cook:</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 cups water</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 teaspoon salt</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 cup cornmeal</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/3 cup heavy cream</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/2 cup grated Mozzarella or other cheese of your choice. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Place a small pot or a medium sauce pan with 2 cups of water and pinch of salt on medium heat. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of cornmeal on the water, this will help the water boil faster. Or you can use a an electric water kettle to have hot water fast. <span style="background-color: white;">Now that the water is boiling, slowly add the cornmeal, whisking continuously with a wire whip, so you don't get any lumps. After adding all the cornmeal turn the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. In the meantime you can start cooking the fish.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">When the polenta is done, warm the heavy cream in a sauce pan and add it to the polenta, mixing well. Let rest in the pot covered, until ready to serve. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top before serving.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fSKxZ5CD47w/T-TjreLjPhI/AAAAAAAAFZg/7XrTYpFg2NQ/s1600/DSC02919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fSKxZ5CD47w/T-TjreLjPhI/AAAAAAAAFZg/7XrTYpFg2NQ/s640/DSC02919.JPG" title="polenta" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">For the fish : </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3 tablespoons butter</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 medium red onion , cut in half inch cubes</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">4-6 Campari tomatoes (or other tomatoes you like, I just prefer Campari), peeled and cut in quarters. To easy peel tomatoes drop them whole in boiling water for 10 seconds, then the peel will come off super easy. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 cloves of garlic, chopped</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">15 oz (around 400 g) white fish fillet cut in 2-3 inch pieces (your choice of fish)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Salt and fresh ground peppercorns , to taste</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/2 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (spicy red peppers)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/2 teaspoon paprika </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 bay leaf</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3 slices of fresh lemon, seeded</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">In a deep pan on medium heat stove top, melt the butter and olive oil. When hot, add chopped onion, mix, and cook for 2-3 minutes, sprinkled with a little salt. Add the cut tomatoes, turn up the heat on medium-high, and cook for 2-3 minutes , stirring once or twice. Add the garlic, stir, and immediately add the fish pieces on top, sprinkle the seasoning and add the bay leaf, then stir carefully once, not to break the fish. Place the lemon slices on top of the fish, and let cook for 3 minutes. G<span style="background-color: white;">ently turn the fish on the other side and cook for another 3 minutes. Turn of the stove. Give it another gentle stir and cover the pot to keep it warm until serving. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-36YcrtQHzbE/T-Tjux0rshI/AAAAAAAAFZw/peyURf9BXXo/s1600/DSC02921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-36YcrtQHzbE/T-Tjux0rshI/AAAAAAAAFZw/peyURf9BXXo/s640/DSC02921.JPG" title="fish in sauce of onion, tomato and lemon." width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">While the fish cooks is time to make the roasted tomatoes:</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">4 Campari tomatoes, cut in half</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 small pinch of salt</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_rbWB4w6rzg/T-TjtJoOQ3I/AAAAAAAAFZo/URzOvHgegsY/s1600/DSC02920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_rbWB4w6rzg/T-TjtJoOQ3I/AAAAAAAAFZo/URzOvHgegsY/s640/DSC02920.JPG" title="roasted tomatoes" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">The fastest way to get "roasted tomatoes" is actually searing them in a pan. In the oven it would take longer, so I prefer to do it this way. Grilled or roasted tomatoes are so delicious, they make a good side to any dish. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Heat the olive oil on medium high heat in a pan. Add the tomato halves , cut side up, sprinkle with salt, and cook for 2 minutes, then turn them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">You can also grill them if you have a grill.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Enjoy this hearty but easy to make dish!</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ds0JZR5C350/T-TjzLH-DXI/AAAAAAAAFaA/IIlBY80kOwI/s1600/DSC02925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ds0JZR5C350/T-TjzLH-DXI/AAAAAAAAFaA/IIlBY80kOwI/s640/DSC02925.JPG" title="white fish in sauce, with polenta and roasted tomatoes" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;">On the plate you can see also some potato fries, just because my hubby asked for them. :)</span>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-35673398634462115832012-05-08T15:45:00.000-07:002012-05-08T16:15:17.790-07:00PopOver in the morning!<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Popovers are something like the "child" of an omelet and a pancake... you get the best of both in one small delicious bite. They are light, hollow rolls, made from an egg batter and baked usually in muffin tins, and can be served as a sweet, with fruit and whipped cream, for breakfast with butter and jam, or in a savory version, when you add cheese or meat and herbs to the batter, but most often are made simple, with a buttery taste. <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">The name "popover" comes from the fact that the batter swells or "pops" over the top of the muffin tin while baking.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SKav2GUNoN8/T6mgeepJL0I/AAAAAAAAFZI/eTQwdl4HVik/s1600/DSC02665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="popover" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SKav2GUNoN8/T6mgeepJL0I/AAAAAAAAFZI/eTQwdl4HVik/s640/DSC02665.JPG" title="parmesan popovers for breakfast" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 19px;">I made some savory ones for breakfast today, with Parmesan cheese and dill. These are great for breakfast, because it takes only 3 minutes to prepare them, then they're off in the oven for 20 minutes, and you don't need to watch or turn them, as you might have to do with pancakes and omelets. So this breakfast really take only 3 minutes of your morning. Isn't this great?! Also this can be your "go to" fast easy to make treat when you have an unexpected guest.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4irmA0Yws-s/T6mggLEbm7I/AAAAAAAAFZQ/I3UDtaZrEBA/s1600/DSC02669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4irmA0Yws-s/T6mggLEbm7I/AAAAAAAAFZQ/I3UDtaZrEBA/s640/DSC02669.JPG" title="popover" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><i>Ingredients for 16 small popovers:</i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">3 eggs</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">1 cup whole milk</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">2 tablespoons melted butter (it works without the butter as well, but it is good to use some as it gives a great taste)</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">1 cup all purpose flour</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">1 small pinch of salt</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">1 tablespoon butter for greasing the muffin tin, or you can use a non stick spray. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">These are the ingredients you need for basic simple popovers. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">For the savory ones I made you will also need:</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley or dill</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">If you want to make them sweet, add instead 1/3 cups of sugar and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><i>Method:</i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 420 degrees F (215 C)</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">In a small butter warmer over medium low heat melt the butter. Set aside to cool.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Grease the muffin tin. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;">Place all of the ingredients (don't forget the melted butter) into a </span>food processor<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"> or blender and process for 30 seconds. I like using the blender, because it is so easy to use it's cup to just pour the batter in the muffin tin cups. The batter will be quite liquid. Divide the batter evenly between the cups of the muffin tin; each should be about 2/3 full. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hNIG45KVW4U/T6mga0P3mQI/AAAAAAAAFY4/uGSdUgLdReM/s1600/DSC02658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="popover" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hNIG45KVW4U/T6mga0P3mQI/AAAAAAAAFY4/uGSdUgLdReM/s640/DSC02658.JPG" title="popover" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 23px;">Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 20 minutes, </span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 23px;">without opening the oven door.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uc-YBCJEBCM/T6mgcnRV-II/AAAAAAAAFZA/noqcCTr3mfk/s1600/DSC02660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="parmesan popovers" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uc-YBCJEBCM/T6mgcnRV-II/AAAAAAAAFZA/noqcCTr3mfk/s640/DSC02660.JPG" title="popover" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 23px;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">When they are all puffed up and golden, remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-92rzdsIYw7A/T6mgTzS-iaI/AAAAAAAAFYw/uwtfQ6S2qvY/s1600/DSC02667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img alt="parmesan popovers" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-92rzdsIYw7A/T6mgTzS-iaI/AAAAAAAAFYw/uwtfQ6S2qvY/s640/DSC02667.JPG" title="popover" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-60964894712000367532012-04-23T22:32:00.002-07:002012-04-24T01:24:56.491-07:00Pan di Spagna cupcakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-origin: initial; line-height: 19px;">Pan di Spagna</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"> (literally 'bread of Spain'), is a cake invented in the mid 1700's by </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-origin: initial; line-height: 19px;">Giobatta Cabona</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"> (a cook from Genoa</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"> at the service of the genoese ambassador in Spain, marquis Domenico Pallavicini) on the occasion of a banquet, where he presented a cake of incredible lightness, that took its name to honor the Spanish court. It is very similar to the American chiffon cake. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">The high oil and egg content creates a very moist cake, and as oil is liquid even at cooler temperatures, it does not tend to harden or dry out as traditional </span>butter cake<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"> might. This makes them better-suited to filling or frosting with ingredients that need to be refrigerated or frozen, such as </span>pastry cream<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"> or </span>ice cream<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">. It also tends to be lower in saturated fat than butter cakes, making them healthier than their butter-heavy counterparts.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">I love this cake for so many reasons: very few and unpretentious ingredients, easy and fast to make, and so many uses! I think of it as one of the basic recipes in baking, that you can use as a starting point for classic layered cakes, for cupcakes, pound cakes, cake rolls, trifle and many more. Back at home it is usually baked in a loaf pan, then served as slices with confectioner's sugar sprinkled on top. </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KtqFkFbtfrM/T5Y0pb_HBnI/AAAAAAAAE-g/tJtO-SYVUCs/s1600/DSC02256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6y-XvY4vxl0/T5Y0tQNOacI/AAAAAAAAE-o/S2wojYgJYOk/s1600/DSC02263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="422" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6y-XvY4vxl0/T5Y0tQNOacI/AAAAAAAAE-o/S2wojYgJYOk/s640/DSC02263.JPG" title="chocolate ganache pan di Spagna cupcakes" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 19px;">I used this recipe the other day to make cupcakes, some frosted with chocolate ganache, and some with lemon icing. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NC2W1z_9jBw/T5ZjRg75K2I/AAAAAAAAE_Y/Qu92fKmNMaQ/s1600/DSC02256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NC2W1z_9jBw/T5ZjRg75K2I/AAAAAAAAE_Y/Qu92fKmNMaQ/s640/DSC02256.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">This is what you need for about 24 cupcakes (2 loafs if you use loaf pans instead, or 3, 8 inch cake layers if you want to make a cake):</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">For the cake:</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">7 eggs, separated</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">1 1/2 cups granulated sugar</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">7 spoons water</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">7 spoons vegetable oil (canola, corn or sunflower oil)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">1 1/2 cups all purpose or cake four, sifted</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">1 pinch of salt</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">1 teaspoon baking powder (the original recipe does not ask for backing powder, you can skip it, but I usually add some)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">For chocolate ganache:</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">2 cups good quality </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">chopped dark semi-sweet chocolate</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">3/4 cup heavy whipping cream</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">For lemon icing:</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">2 cups confectioner's (powder) sugar</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;">2 tablespoons butter, melted</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">3 tablespoons lemon juice (I use Meyer lemons, because I love their taste and fragrance)</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Method:</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Preheat oven at 360 degrees F (180 C).</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Prepare the pans you will bake the cake in, greasing them with butter and lining with parchment paper, or lining the muffin tins with cupcake liners.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_yywpqOQvOo/T5Y0CxIC6zI/AAAAAAAAE9Y/W4f5l1E1JMw/s1600/DSC02236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_yywpqOQvOo/T5Y0CxIC6zI/AAAAAAAAE9Y/W4f5l1E1JMw/s640/DSC02236.JPG" title="cupcake liners" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">In the clean bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (of course you can use a hand mixer, or if you are in shape even a regular whisk), beat the egg whites on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, for 2 minutes or so, then gradually add the sugar, and beat until very stiff, for 2-3 more minutes. Stop the mixer. Leave the bowl with the meringue in place.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">In another bowl whisk together the egg yolk, vanilla extract, water, vegetable oil, then sift on top the flour, salt and baking powder together, and mix everything well. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Change the whisk attachment of the stand mixer with the paddle attachment. Start the mixer on low ( I put my KitchenAid on 2 or 3) and gradually add the egg yolk mixture, beating for 20 seconds, just until combined, not more. Make sure to scrape the sides of the bowl with a spatula. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">The best would be to carefully fold them in using a spatula, but it worked very well with the mixer too. It is important though to mix very lightly in order for the beaten egg whites to keep their volume, so the cake is light and fluffy as we want it to be. The dough should be very airy, soft, and light, like a beaten mousse. </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pJprJdVUIxM/T5Y0HqsG3BI/AAAAAAAAE9g/dLmmgEGN-NM/s1600/DSC02238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pJprJdVUIxM/T5Y0HqsG3BI/AAAAAAAAE9g/dLmmgEGN-NM/s640/DSC02238.JPG" title="pan di Spagna" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">To make cupcakes, carefully fill them to two thirds, with batter. The easiest way to do this is using a large ice cream scoop, of about 2.5 inches diameter. One full scoop takes the exact quantity of batter needed for a perfect cupcake. </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jzGSBPizSXs/T5Y0MvF4oBI/AAAAAAAAE9o/m4KHkElORK8/s1600/DSC02241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jzGSBPizSXs/T5Y0MvF4oBI/AAAAAAAAE9o/m4KHkElORK8/s640/DSC02241.JPG" title="cupcakes" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Bake them for 17-20 minutes, until they puff up and are golden on top. Keep an eye on them, but do not open the oven before 15 minutes pass. Try to see if they are done by carefully pressing on top, (don't burn yourself though by touching the oven, be careful!) with your finger, and if it springs back, they are done. You can also use the toothpick method, inserting a toothpick in, and if it comes out clean, it means they are done. Every oven is different, so it is better to try them and see when they are done, for best results. It can take only 15 minutes in some, or even 20 in other ovens. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">I also made mini cupcakes, and you have to bake them only 12-15 minutes.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Whenever I want to bake two different sizes of cupcakes, what I do is to fill out the big ones, place them in the oven, then start filling the small ones after that, and place them in the oven later, as it usually takes me 5 minutes to fill all the mini liners, so they are both ready in the same time.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AwpEE4ETiCM/T5Y0Sg7gpuI/AAAAAAAAE9w/1jaG7yb29dk/s1600/DSC02246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AwpEE4ETiCM/T5Y0Sg7gpuI/AAAAAAAAE9w/1jaG7yb29dk/s640/DSC02246.JPG" title="cupcakes" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">When done, let them cool in the tins, then carefully remove them. While they cool you can prepare the frosting/ icing.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">To make the <b>chocolate ganache</b>: heat the heavy cream in a sauce pan over medium heat, until small bubbles form on the pan sides, turn heat off, drop the chocolate on top, let it stand and melt for 5 minutes, then mix well until smooth and shinny. You can use this chocolate ganache in many desserts, as cakes like <a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2011/11/i-use-my-kitchenaid-mixer-way-too-often.html" target="_blank">this</a> or <a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2011/11/death-by-chocolate.html" target="_blank">this</a>, for <a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2012/03/profiteroles.html" target="_blank">profiteroles</a> or frost various other things, like a <a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2011/11/back-where-we-are-from-cheesecake-is.html" target="_blank">cheesecake</a>.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">To make the <b>lemon icing</b>: juice one medium Mayer lemon (to get 3 tablespoons lemon juice). Set the juice aside, in a medium bowl. Melt the butter in a small sauce pan or butter warmer. Pour it over the lemon juice and mix, then add the confectioner's (powder) sugar, and mix well. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before using it. Mix once more just before frosting with it. You can control the thickness of the icing by adding more lemon juice or sugar, until you get the desired consistency. It will harden a little as it sets after you frost the cupcakes.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">For easy frosting, just carefully take the cupcake keeping it by the liner, turn it upside down and dip in frosting gently, covering all the top, with circular motions, then slowly turn them upright, and place on a rack to set. Do the same with the chocolate ganache.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LBHxzh9o0TI/T5Y0XNm-MRI/AAAAAAAAE94/O3HtGbTGRws/s1600/DSC02248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="icing" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LBHxzh9o0TI/T5Y0XNm-MRI/AAAAAAAAE94/O3HtGbTGRws/s640/DSC02248.JPG" title="lemon icing cupcakes" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0soqgxUyw4/T5Y0aiYUcfI/AAAAAAAAE-A/s3vSo3_ioLo/s1600/DSC02249.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0soqgxUyw4/T5Y0aiYUcfI/AAAAAAAAE-A/s3vSo3_ioLo/s640/DSC02249.JPG" title="lemon icing cupcakes" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jYY3shxmL44/T5Y0eP3iIZI/AAAAAAAAE-I/s8UY8EobbS4/s1600/DSC02251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jYY3shxmL44/T5Y0eP3iIZI/AAAAAAAAE-I/s8UY8EobbS4/s640/DSC02251.JPG" title="lemon icing cupcakes" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X4fZUh-uJxU/T5Y0hs5PsxI/AAAAAAAAE-Q/gEnjIRAFKxg/s1600/DSC02254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X4fZUh-uJxU/T5Y0hs5PsxI/AAAAAAAAE-Q/gEnjIRAFKxg/s640/DSC02254.JPG" title="lemon icing cupcakes" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Because this cake is so moist, baking it in cupcake liners, and frosting them, ensures a longer freshness, as they don't dry out fast, so you can keep and enjoy them for a few days!</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T4ngscxV1ig/T5Y0xJMwQ8I/AAAAAAAAE-w/EJ5n36anyxw/s1600/DSC02265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T4ngscxV1ig/T5Y0xJMwQ8I/AAAAAAAAE-w/EJ5n36anyxw/s640/DSC02265.JPG" title="chocolate ganache cupcakes" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-48864758372656575272012-04-19T12:22:00.002-07:002012-04-19T23:21:17.936-07:00Bread pudding with an upgrade<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Shopping at a World Market yesterday I found some Italian cookies I used to love as a child : <a href="http://www.balocco.it/en/dolce_quotidiano.php?id=12" target="_blank">Savoiardi</a>. I believe they call this type of cookie "lady fingers" here in United States. This particular ones are very dry, crisp, porous and crumbly, with a sugary sprinkle on top. They are used usually for Tiramisu, but work great for any cake. I bought them thinking to make the crust for my next cheesecake, as we are not very crazy for the graham cracker crust, and wanted to find a replacement. As a kid I used to love eating Savoiardi with my hot chocolate, dipping them in. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8IaMpY9Vsvk/T5D8J76SOoI/AAAAAAAAE7o/faUHLD2tsbo/s1600/DSC02235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="savoiardi custard" border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8IaMpY9Vsvk/T5D8J76SOoI/AAAAAAAAE7o/faUHLD2tsbo/s640/DSC02235.JPG" title="bread pudding" width="424" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Thinking about what to fix for breakfast next day, bread pudding came to mind, and this spongy cookies would be perfect to take this yummy treat up a notch. Said and done. I think bread pudding is a wonderful breakfast, but you have to have the time. If you are in a hurry this won't be a good breakfast idea. You could try it as a dinner desert though!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s0qVEr3Bxhk/T5Bgk6Yyt1I/AAAAAAAAE6Q/mra9vtY-eos/s1600/DSC02235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Here is how to make this:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients (for 2 rather large portions, or 4 smaller):</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">12 Savoiardi cookies (you can use any other lady finger cookies, or even left over Panettone, or why not make the classic recipe with stale bread) </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">4 eggs</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/4 cup sugar (you can put less if you don't want them too sweet, as the cookies are also sweet and have sugar sprinkles on top as well)</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/3 cup heavy cream</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 cups whole milk</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/2 tablespoon pure vanilla extract, or even better, half vanilla bean seeds</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 pinch of grated nutmeg</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Method:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Break the cookies in half, and arrange them in layers in the ramekins. Set aside.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPBPxuWhzfA/T5D-Yo3yUGI/AAAAAAAAE7w/TYkBqwysqSM/s1600/DSC02212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="savoiardi" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KPBPxuWhzfA/T5D-Yo3yUGI/AAAAAAAAE7w/TYkBqwysqSM/s640/DSC02212.JPG" title="bread pudding" width="640" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QmAhuROxxno/T5D-dLK38rI/AAAAAAAAE74/-BPd49KJtZY/s1600/DSC02213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="savoiardi" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QmAhuROxxno/T5D-dLK38rI/AAAAAAAAE74/-BPd49KJtZY/s640/DSC02213.JPG" title="bread pudding" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">In a bowl, or in a blender as I did, mix together sugar and eggs, then add all the rest of the ingredients and mix well, not too long though.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oZOOcLc2-t8/T5D-iGmRbWI/AAAAAAAAE8A/3-oFTnZaVsc/s1600/DSC02215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="custard" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oZOOcLc2-t8/T5D-iGmRbWI/AAAAAAAAE8A/3-oFTnZaVsc/s640/DSC02215.JPG" title="bread pudding" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Pour this mixture over the cookies in the ramekins, to fill them up, but not all the way to the top, as they will rise at least one inch while baking. Gently press the cookies down to make sure they are sunk in the custard. Let them soak in for at least 10-15 minutes.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb1xsYrBCno/T5D-mCML2XI/AAAAAAAAE8I/2q-KZMRDiy8/s1600/DSC02223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="savoiardi" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Pb1xsYrBCno/T5D-mCML2XI/AAAAAAAAE8I/2q-KZMRDiy8/s640/DSC02223.JPG" title="bread pudding" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RFN1He-LdQ4/T5D-rNwBxeI/AAAAAAAAE8Q/zGVft_BcIM4/s1600/DSC02225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="savoiardi custard" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RFN1He-LdQ4/T5D-rNwBxeI/AAAAAAAAE8Q/zGVft_BcIM4/s640/DSC02225.JPG" title="bread puddding" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I prepared this the night before, so I placed the ramekins in the fridge until the next morning. But you can bake them right away as well. Bake at 350 degrees F (180 C), placing them in a deep pan filled with hot water halfway up the ramekins, for 50 minutes to one hour, until they get golden brown and fluffy and the custard sets. Just keep an eye on them after 45 minutes pass, not to get them burned, as every oven is different.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NMiqqPadD90/T5D-wkaqBUI/AAAAAAAAE8Y/bssz1K4jeJc/s1600/DSC02227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="baking" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NMiqqPadD90/T5D-wkaqBUI/AAAAAAAAE8Y/bssz1K4jeJc/s640/DSC02227.JPG" title="bread pudding" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">If your morning routine takes you about one hour, this is a great breakfast for you. What I do is, wake up, go straight to the kitchen, take the ramekins out of the fridge, place them in a deep pan, fill the pan halfway up with water, preferably hot, but cold should work too... after all, you just woke up, you need things simple and easy. Place the pan in the oven, turn the oven on to 350 degrees, and set the timer for one hour. Never place the cold out of the fridge ramekins in a preheated oven though, you risk them cracking. But if you place them in the cold oven and turn it on afterwards, it is fine. It will take them a little longer in the oven to be done if you are baking them straight out the fridge, then it would if you bake them right away.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Go get your shower, put on make up, get dressed... it takes me about one hour... long, I know... Between your mascara and blush, go check on the pudding. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">And when you are ready, your kitchen will be filled with an amazing smell, and you have a yummy hot breakfast waiting for you. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-px1HduRP-pY/T5D-3T036iI/AAAAAAAAE8o/jDdAUKIgOeM/s1600/DSC02234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="savoiardi custard" border="0" height="632" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-px1HduRP-pY/T5D-3T036iI/AAAAAAAAE8o/jDdAUKIgOeM/s640/DSC02234.JPG" title="bread pudding" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Careful though, as it will be very hot, let them cool a little before digging in. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OXEoxXoS898/T5D-1F0sqOI/AAAAAAAAE8g/Aj19n-mDHUQ/s1600/DSC02232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OXEoxXoS898/T5D-1F0sqOI/AAAAAAAAE8g/Aj19n-mDHUQ/s640/DSC02232.JPG" title="bread pudding" width="424" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I believe this would be great with a nice sauce on top (extra calories always somehow make things tastier :), but I skipped the sauce this time), such as this one from Paula Deen:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Ingredients:</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/2 cup sugar</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick) melted</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 egg yolk</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">2 tablespoons brandy, or liqueur, or 1/2 teaspoon rum essence</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Mix everything but the brandy together in a sauce pan over medium heat, until the sugar dissolves, and you get a creamy consistency. Add the brandy, mix well, and pour over pudding. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">You can also top the warm pudding with ice cream, or whipped cream, and even fresh berries. </span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Yum</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<br />Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-47511502064208757702012-04-17T12:44:00.000-07:002012-04-20T17:49:25.262-07:00Quick spin on Croque Madame<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">We often have dinner very very late... hubby is a workaholic... sometimes I get confused and don't know if to consider it a dinner, supper or even breakfast, as we sometimes eat at 3 or 4 AM... We had such a situation last night. Started cooking at 1 AM. Dinner. Or... Anyway, I wanted to make something fast and easy. I had planned to have grilled salmon and salad for dinner, thinking we would have a "normal" dinner, but at 1 AM I wasn't going to grill fish and get the house all smelly. So we had to improvise. And made Croque Madame, with smoked salmon. This is my first try at this dish, and wanted to make it for a long time now. It is also quite different than the classic recipe, as I had to make some substitutions, so this is my "quick" spin on it:</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ibDiXbmFOaY/T5EB_1izOBI/AAAAAAAAE84/oFWekvpMiPc/s1600/DSC02194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ibDiXbmFOaY/T5EB_1izOBI/AAAAAAAAE84/oFWekvpMiPc/s640/DSC02194.JPG" title="Croque madame with salmon" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #666666;">I usually have Croque Madame for breakfast or brunch, and my favorite is the one at </span><a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/douce-france-palo-alto-2" target="_blank">Douce France</a><span style="color: #666666;">, a nice French bakery in the </span><a href="http://www.tandcvillage.com/" target="_blank">Town and Country Village</a><span style="color: #666666;">, in Palo Alto. If you are in the area you should try this place out, for brunch or breakfast, (they open at 7!) as they have delicious treats, good coffee, and also nice service and seating outside, and I love to eat al fresco. </span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">This is how to make a midnight, quick and easy French inspired food:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients for one portion:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 slices of french bread. My favorite is the LaBrea Bakery French loaf that we buy from our local Whole Foods</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon butter</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 slices of cheese. Gruyere or other cheese you like to use for grilled cheese sandwiches. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 slices of smoked salmon (you can use ham instead)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">If you stop here, you would have a Croque Monsieur. But I prefer to take it further to make it a Croque Madame, and add:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 fresh eggs</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon mayonnaise </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Fresh ground black pepper</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Pinch cayenne</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Nutmeg</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2-3 tablespoons wine vinegar, or lemon juice</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">The classic Croque Madame recipe calls for Hollandaise sauce. But hey, at 1 AM, I didn't want to make it, so I substituted it with a sauce made simply with mayo and mustard. It works great!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Method:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Place a pot with water on heat, with the vinegar or lemon juice, to get to a simmer. You need 1 tablespoon of vinegar per cup of water. Also, if you use a nonstick pot, the water should be 1 inch deep. If is a regular pot, it needs to be about 3 inches deep. You will need this to poach the eggs in. The vinegar/lemon juice will help the eggs keep their shape, and not spread in water. </span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aI-Vp-JM6LQ/T5EB7yPy0PI/AAAAAAAAE8w/Vspwc2t9sd8/s1600/DSC02182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aI-Vp-JM6LQ/T5EB7yPy0PI/AAAAAAAAE8w/Vspwc2t9sd8/s640/DSC02182.JPG" title="Poached eggs" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Place a skillet on medium heat. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Spread the butter on both sides of the bread slices. Toast bread in skillet on both sides. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Place the slices of cheese on top of the bread, turn off the heat, cover, letting them melt. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AbtkE-8HIUc/T43B3PXh02I/AAAAAAAAE4o/Iluemh2kmDU/s640/DSC02183.JPG" width="640" /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">At this point the water in pot should be simmering. Carefully break the eggs, one at a time in a small bowl, to make sure the yolk is intact, and the egg is good. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Gently drop the egg in the simmering water. Do the same with the second one. Stop the heat, cover, and let the eggs cook for 4-5 minutes. This will make the egg yolk barely runny. If you want them softer, keep them less. Also, if you cook more eggs at once, you have to keep them longer, 7-8 minutes for 4 eggs, for example, as they absorb more heat, therefore they need to cook longer to get the same consistency.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I recently bought this cute egg poacher on my last Williams Sonoma spree, but trying both methods, I kind of prefer to just drop the eggs directly in the pan, it works better.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Very carefully spoon out the eggs, and place on a paper towel for a few seconds to dry them.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5GqHiVo5G8k/T43B7SqqdBI/AAAAAAAAE4w/XJ6ivMKCmbc/s640/DSC02188.JPG" width="640" /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Place the slices of smoked salmon on top of the melted cheese.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Add one poached egg on top of each slice.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="clear: left; color: #666666; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iTKqQGYh3P0/T43B_GPO3mI/AAAAAAAAE44/K8LZKa7fZtA/s640/DSC02189.JPG" width="640" /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">I let them in the skillet up till before serving, so they stay warm.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Place them on a plate.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Spoon over some sauce.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Season with little salt, not too much as the cheese and salmon are already salty, fresh ground pepper, some cayenne and/or little grated nutmeg.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g21FPqXcXBU/T5ECDyp1V0I/AAAAAAAAE9A/TOKD0A8KN9g/s1600/DSC02197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g21FPqXcXBU/T5ECDyp1V0I/AAAAAAAAE9A/TOKD0A8KN9g/s640/DSC02197.JPG" title="Croque madame" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c8DLxVJO3Us/T5ECH1xXwoI/AAAAAAAAE9I/2JggTqPbLMI/s1600/DSC02198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c8DLxVJO3Us/T5ECH1xXwoI/AAAAAAAAE9I/2JggTqPbLMI/s640/DSC02198.JPG" title="Croque madame" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e712HW1NT-U/T5ECL8QkWVI/AAAAAAAAE9Q/jwNxc8tbG0I/s1600/DSC02200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><img alt="" border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e712HW1NT-U/T5ECL8QkWVI/AAAAAAAAE9Q/jwNxc8tbG0I/s640/DSC02200.JPG" title="Croque madame" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Enjoy warm, with a side of salad, or just as it is.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-50674377029753014682012-04-12T15:33:00.000-07:002012-04-12T15:43:11.972-07:00Morning stories<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">I love breakfast. It is so great to sit down in your pajamas, your hair up in a bun, and enjoy some yummy food, with the sun shining though the open windows, and a fresh smell of spring getting in. This should be an easy to fix, but also nutritious meal, to get you started, and I believe a great day starts with an amazing breakfast. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fIIJ1Q0u4kU/T4dT6GJPZaI/AAAAAAAAE3o/wgZraTdCJRI/s1600/DSC02173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fIIJ1Q0u4kU/T4dT6GJPZaI/AAAAAAAAE3o/wgZraTdCJRI/s640/DSC02173.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Today we had my favorite <a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2012/03/perfect-omelette.html" target="_blank">omelet</a> , diced cucumbers and tomatoes drizzled with olive oil, fresh mozzarella cheese, bread with butter and jam, Turkish black tea, my favorite coffee , made with a cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of Nesquik, and 1 teaspoon of a good quality instant coffee, and <a href="http://askanam.blogspot.com/2012/04/mini-blackberry-apple-pies.html" target="_blank">mini pies</a> . </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u_fJYZ3NvAs/T4dT-udfdrI/AAAAAAAAE3w/nckgJiZA79Q/s1600/DSC02178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u_fJYZ3NvAs/T4dT-udfdrI/AAAAAAAAE3w/nckgJiZA79Q/s640/DSC02178.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dGzINABywSs/T4dUB7whX7I/AAAAAAAAE34/lAyvnmLbYFs/s1600/DSC02180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qzLUdFLMMmA/T4dUFWzviSI/AAAAAAAAE4A/oTQqOvP0qSE/s1600/DSC02181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qzLUdFLMMmA/T4dUFWzviSI/AAAAAAAAE4A/oTQqOvP0qSE/s640/DSC02181.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dGzINABywSs/T4dUB7whX7I/AAAAAAAAE34/lAyvnmLbYFs/s1600/DSC02180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">My favorite breakfast experience is always in Turkey, preferably in some one's home, but if you don't have friends/relatives there, there are tons of breakfast places to choose from.. They have such an awesome way to fix it, the table pretty, clean and simple, full of many elegant small bowls filled with a variety of things: cucumbers, tomatoes, drizzled with good olive oil, white cheese, olives cured in olive oil, lemon juice, crushed red pepper and thyme; home made jams, butter, hazelnut spread, cured meats, eggs, yogurt, fresh bread, freshly squeezed orange juice, and fresh fruit.</span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">Everything is served separate, in bowls, simple and fresh, and I love just to pick a little from each and gather it on my plate. Of course the famous Turkish black tea served in small glass cups brings everything together. There is something very special about this type of breakfast, and is my absolute favorite. [I am really not into a bowl of cereals breakfast. I just have cereals at night watching TV, for some reason] </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dGzINABywSs/T4dUB7whX7I/AAAAAAAAE34/lAyvnmLbYFs/s1600/DSC02180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dGzINABywSs/T4dUB7whX7I/AAAAAAAAE34/lAyvnmLbYFs/s640/DSC02180.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">If you ever find yourself in Turkey, please have a traditional breakfast. I am sure you will love it! This is what you do in Turkey: eat, eat, eat, anywhere, from the street corner to the upscale restaurants, everywhere will be a delicious experience, shop, shop, shop in Nisantasi, (best shopping experience is also in Istanbul; they know how to do this right), of course visit all the amazing historic sites, and get your hair done! If you ever wanted to try a new hair style and you were too afraid, or didn't trust a stylist can make your vision come true, then you have to do this while in Turkey, Istanbul more precisely. They are amazing! When living in Europe, Mom my sister and I would drive for 7 hours to Istanbul just to get our hair done. It is so worth it! Turkish women are always so stylish and love to have their make up and hair done professionally, so you will find hair salons at every corner. My favorite was Mos, in Nisantasi, but most of them will do a great job. And you will have the best blowout too. Oh, I really miss Istanbul now. It must be my favorite city in the world!</span>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5185385410349007704.post-81034637549811627302012-04-11T19:41:00.000-07:002012-04-11T19:41:39.808-07:00Mini blackberry-apple pies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cg4Fymzarmk/T4Y9_LuK38I/AAAAAAAAE3A/BG36hXqhTms/s1600/DSC02157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cg4Fymzarmk/T4Y9_LuK38I/AAAAAAAAE3A/BG36hXqhTms/s640/DSC02157.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">This is how you make this cute little pies:</span><div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Ingredients for 12 mini pies:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Crust:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">2 cups all purpose four, sifted</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">pinch of salt</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/3 cup confectioner's sugar (granulated would work too)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 1/2 sticks butter, very cold, cut in cubes</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">3 tablespoons sour cream</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">3 tablespoon heavy whipping cream</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Filling:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">5 green apples (Granny Smith), cored, peeled, cut in small cubes</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">12 oz blackberries (you can substitute with any other berries)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">3 tablespoons butter</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1/3 cup sugar</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 tablespoon butter for the pan</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">1 egg, beaten</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">You will also need a rolling pin, cupcake/muffin pan, parchment paper cut in 12 1 inch wide and 6 inches long pieces, cookie cutter, or a bowl, 5-6 inch wide, dough cutter, brush</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Method:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">In a food processor, stand mixer, or by hand, mix the flour, confectioner's sugar and salt. Add the butter and pulse/mix just until you get a crumbly consistency, with pieces of butter the size of a pea. Add the sour cream and heavy cream and mix just until combined, and it forms a ball of dough. It is important not to over work the dough. Cover it in plastic wrap and place in the fridge to rest for at least half an hour. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAh_4mNraLo/T4Y75DNxipI/AAAAAAAAE1g/Be5CRP18ZBU/s1600/DSC02119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAh_4mNraLo/T4Y75DNxipI/AAAAAAAAE1g/Be5CRP18ZBU/s640/DSC02119.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSwRIkn03Fc/T4Y8vbg8-tI/AAAAAAAAE1w/T5TzjLc3WgU/s1600/DSC02125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSwRIkn03Fc/T4Y8vbg8-tI/AAAAAAAAE1w/T5TzjLc3WgU/s640/DSC02125.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Meanwhile, prepare the filling. In a saute pan on medium heat, melt the butter and sugar. Add the apples, mix, and let them cook covered on medium-low for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice. The apples will get a beautiful golden color, and the sugar will caramelize them. Sprinkle the pure vanilla extract and mix. Take them off heat, and in the blackberries. Let aside to cool, uncovered. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-drNmw8JHL2g/T4Y88lg-q3I/AAAAAAAAE14/egXkd_itRZE/s1600/DSC02127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-drNmw8JHL2g/T4Y88lg-q3I/AAAAAAAAE14/egXkd_itRZE/s640/DSC02127.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Take the chilled dough, sprinkle it and the work surface with flour, not to stick, and roll it in a large thin sheet. Using a large cookie or biscuit cutter (I used a small bowl) cut discs, large enough to cover the whole cupcake pan forms. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FZ4sHDZCRlk/T4Y9M9o5MpI/AAAAAAAAE2A/g6r8xBAC05o/s1600/DSC02131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FZ4sHDZCRlk/T4Y9M9o5MpI/AAAAAAAAE2A/g6r8xBAC05o/s640/DSC02131.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VowL5dyNY5k/T4Y9RwMiC4I/AAAAAAAAE2I/pAwjrDP1faA/s1600/DSC02132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VowL5dyNY5k/T4Y9RwMiC4I/AAAAAAAAE2I/pAwjrDP1faA/s640/DSC02132.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Preheat oven to 360 degrees F (180 C)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xx5flnCkiNg/T4Y8Ip9wZzI/AAAAAAAAE1o/nTUKOdcnVvo/s1600/DSC02123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xx5flnCkiNg/T4Y8Ip9wZzI/AAAAAAAAE1o/nTUKOdcnVvo/s640/DSC02123.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Grease the cupcake pan with butter, and place in each of it a 1x6 inch piece of parchment paper , like in the photo. The butter will help them stick and stay in place. This will help you safely and easily remove the pies from the pan when done, pulling them up by the free ends of the parchment paper pieces. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mj33mGP03Vg/T4Y9dyP1fRI/AAAAAAAAE2Q/5KyOJygv--I/s1600/DSC02134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mj33mGP03Vg/T4Y9dyP1fRI/AAAAAAAAE2Q/5KyOJygv--I/s640/DSC02134.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Carefully lift and place the dough discs in the pan, then gently press them on the bottom and sides.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Place the pan in the freezer for 10 minutes, for the dough to chill.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1PTOY1wqBLs/T4Y9hV96jBI/AAAAAAAAE2Y/XZjYEBJVZaM/s1600/DSC02136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1PTOY1wqBLs/T4Y9hV96jBI/AAAAAAAAE2Y/XZjYEBJVZaM/s640/DSC02136.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Meanwhile, with the dough left,form a ball and roll it again in a sheet, and using the dough cutter, cut thin strips. You will use them to cover the top of the pies. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-23M76SHRX0k/T4Y9le-yZHI/AAAAAAAAE2g/AL2pxp7xzHs/s1600/DSC02139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-23M76SHRX0k/T4Y9le-yZHI/AAAAAAAAE2g/AL2pxp7xzHs/s640/DSC02139.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc66sBw3f3k/T4Y9oa2ckTI/AAAAAAAAE2o/lOJDdjZARUA/s1600/DSC02142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zc66sBw3f3k/T4Y9oa2ckTI/AAAAAAAAE2o/lOJDdjZARUA/s640/DSC02142.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Take the cupcake pan out of the freezer, spoon the filling in, and cover it</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;"> in a lattice pattern with pie crust strips. Brush them with the beaten egg and bake them on the middle rack for 20-25 minutes, until the crust is golden. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3byuzk1PVh0/T4Y95sj5pmI/AAAAAAAAE24/lrwLDntd-j0/s1600/DSC02150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3byuzk1PVh0/T4Y95sj5pmI/AAAAAAAAE24/lrwLDntd-j0/s640/DSC02150.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">Carefully remove the pies from the pan, and serve warm with vanilla ice cream. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ol_DM4i3yno/T4Y9zsvY4gI/AAAAAAAAE2w/cUhHu5K6Fqo/s1600/DSC02149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ol_DM4i3yno/T4Y9zsvY4gI/AAAAAAAAE2w/cUhHu5K6Fqo/s640/DSC02149.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9bg894NibbA/T4Y-AGFcdII/AAAAAAAAE3I/hItVhyR17hE/s1600/DSC02159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="630" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9bg894NibbA/T4Y-AGFcdII/AAAAAAAAE3I/hItVhyR17hE/s640/DSC02159.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>Askanamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13262043395742948700noreply@blogger.com2