I know that we said we were off for the rest of the year, but I did want to pop in and share a few of the recipes I’ve been having fun with lately. As I shared when I posted my DIY recipe book recently, baking is one of the few hobbies that I’ve allowed to remain a hobby. I only do it when I feel like it and there is no pressure – it is simply a bonus.
To be clear: there is no way we are turning into a cooking or lifestyle blog. Don’t worry. But if you’re looking for something fun and sweet to make while on vacation or this winter, here are five recipes I’ve tried lately and loved:
Source: Epicurious
These chocolate chip scones can be made the day before and kept in the fridge overnight for an easy morning. The recipe calls for them to be huge, so cut the final product into 1/8th or 1/10th pieces, rather than 1/6th.
Source: Once Upon a Chef
This is a really good pumpkin bread, and easy to make. I usually make half the recipe (since I’ve only got one appropriately sized loaf pan) but two would definitely get eaten up.
Recommended adaptation: make it a pumpkin-chocolate marbled loaf! Just make as usual, and then when you go to add it to the pan, add about only about half of the batter and spread along the bottom of the pan. Take 2/3 of the remaining batter into a separate small bowl, add 2 tbsp of cocoa powder and a splash of milk, and combine. Add as a second layer in the pan, swirl about with a knife, and then smooth. Add the last bit of batter, swirl about, and then smooth… and then bake as usual.
Source: The Little Epicurean
For a twist on regular chocolate chip cookies, try making them with olive oil! It is a fun way to make them a little special. My only caution is to eat them fresh – they’re not as good after sitting for a day or two.
Source: Baking a Moment
If you want to try out some other new flavor combination, this extremely simple sugar cookie recipe is a great base for whatever you want to add. They’re also great on their own, just easy-tasting and sweet.
Recommended adaptation: honey chamomile cookies. Just add 1 tsp lemon extract, a few tbsp of honey, and 3+ packets of chamomile tea. It’s a light flavor but relaxing like a cup of tea.
Source: Snixy Kitchen
Finally, if you haven’t tried making candy before, try these honey lavender caramels. It seems a little intimidating, but if you just read ahead and follow the recipe, it really isn’t so bad. And don’t feel like you need special equipment: I used a regular meat thermometer and it turned out fine. And they’re SO GOOD and make you seem super fancy and talented when you share them with friends and co-workers.
Enjoy!
