Cheesecake Dreams for the Sleepless Chef

Hi guys!!!

Happy Thursday and welcome back!!! Can you believe it's December already?! I know I keep on repeating how fast time flies, but right now, I just cannot believe that we're in the last month of what has been a very interesting 2013.

But I'm getting ahead of myself. When last we met, I had a beautiful Pumpkin Cheesecake setting in the fridge, getting ready for the festivities that would follow the following day. However, that magnificent beast of a cake wasn't for home...I know. Why, right? Hahahaha, a good friend ordered it for his Thanksgiving dinner, while I decided to make a Pumpkin Roll for mine.

To be honest, the picture doesn't do it justice.

So Thursday came by and many of us here, although not American, did celebrate Thanksgiving. With a beautiful bird, mashed sweet potatoes, potato gratin, stuffing, a delicious salad, corn, bread, gravy and cranberry (of course!), we gave thanks for the wonderful times we've had, the many to come and the amazing feast before our eyes. Despite dinner having been quite late, none of us said no to dessert...at 11:30 in the evening. A pumpkin roll, a pumpkin pie, a pecan pie and a "Romeo and Juliet", we were all ready for bed. 

It broke while rolling it up,
but it got devoured later

I had trouble falling asleep with a full belly (oops!), but I was up early and back in the kitchen once more. I had plenty to bake, as I had a weekend off, and I needed that pastry fridge full. It was well past midnight when I found my bed, but the alarm clock rang in what felt like seconds. I had a hair and makeup appointment at 8, so I got ready and headed out. I got home around 11 in the morning, after running several errands, just in time for a quick bite. I rested a bit, but soon it was time to get ready. I had a wedding to attend and by ten to 2, I was out, with my hair pinned up and shadowy eyes. The day passed in a blur: a beautiful bride, a handsome groom, a glorious ceremony (despite the power going out), pitter patter of rain, drinks, a toast, a dance, more dancing, and more drinks. I should have eaten. Yup. I paid dearly for my mistakes on Sunday, barely getting out of bed to shower and eat, with sore feet, a sore throat, a throbbing headache and aching body. Lesson learned: pace yourself when you're dead tired, lacking sleep and not eating well. Not to mention I am now coming down with a cold, due to the light rain we decided to ignore during the party. But regardless of the horrors of Sunday, I wish the newly wed couple a lifetime of happiness.

I think I'm gonna be hating Passion Fruit soon...
having to make it everyday hahahaha

I actually managed to fall asleep again, around 10:30 Sunday evening, with heavy eyes and a bobbing head. I woke up Monday morning, feeling like a new person. I'm sure my cold tablets helped a ton, and I was only thankful I was able to walk again. My feet no longer hurt, but I'll remember to pack in a pair of flats next time I'm out. I managed to bake a lovely batch of brownies and was in the process of making a Lemon Meringue Roulade. Sadly, this last one failed utterly. For some reason, the meringue stuck horribly to the parchment paper and left me a "holey" mess to "work" with. It ended in the trash. I arrived in the early afternoon to the cafe and enjoyed a delicious Vanilla Latte with a brownie, hehehe. The afternoon flew by and soon I found myself enjoying a lovely glass of Riesling. i left as soon as the traffic jam lessened and with absolutely no energy to bake, procrastinated for the better part of the evening. 

Big Red...meet Lil Red. One of my partners let me
borrow it to lessen my load. Thank the LORD!!!

Despite the overall weariness, sleep eluded me. I tried writing and failed miserably; music lost its meaning and I eventually turned to the TV. A good five minutes were spent browsing different channels and switching programs. I was distracted for an hour with old reruns from Criminal Minds. Then I watched a rather disturbing movie. Okay, perhaps it's an exaggeration, but I'm pretty sure I'm scarred for life after watching the 1997 adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov's novel, Lolita. No, definitely sure I'll be scarred for life. I guess I was rather horrified realizing the depraved man was played by none other than Jeremy Irons (whom I love). I soon drifted off, after watching the film. 

Morning came too soon and I woke up after snoozing several times (a thing I used to never do) and immediately showered before I slept again. My cold felt more present, and yet, I had to bake. And so my day began. A White Chocolate Passion Fruit Cheesecake, a Red Velvet Beauty and violet Lavender Cupcakes later, I was enjoying my lunch before heading out. It was a quiet day for me, something I am thankful for, as usually I'm running around stressing out. However, it was 12:52, Wednesday morning, having been a very busy bee for the past four hours, as I had just finished making a Lemon Meringue Tart, another White Chocolate Cheesecake, a Tres Leches cake and an A M A Z I N G (looks, at least) Mojito Cheesecake!!! 

The homegrown mint was essential :)

I woke up feeling terrible. My cold had worsened and my head felt heavy. With utter reluctance I managed to get out of bed, well past my time. I quickly composed myself, headed to the kitchen, applied the finishing touches on my cakes and left. The day passed in a blur, with many ups and downs. I'll detail you on the ups. The downs...let's leave it at that.  First thing in the morning, we received a message from the manager as we appeared on the social page of the newspaper, regarding our opening night. Nice enough to bring me a smile. Second big surprise came in a subscription. My step-by-step of the Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake was published in a national Food Magazine! So, yes, I had much to be thankful and happy today. 

If you haven't tried out the recipe, please do!!!

And as usual, the clock is about to strike 1. The kitchen is spotless and in the fridge I have lovely Lemon Squares, a beautiful Meringue Roulade and the ever-pleasing Carrot Cake. Waiting to be served is the delicious banana bread, sitting pretty on the counter. Despite the day flying by, I am terribly tired, but feeling cheery and merry. So, with a happy smile, I take my leave. 

Have terrific Thursday and I wish you all a great week!!!

Until next time.

xx

P.S. Be sure to stop by next week for two of the new recipes tried out!!!

Coffee & Cake and A Wine Bar Café!

Hi Guys!!!

Happy Wednesday!!! I realize that I've been late with my posting lately. But please bear with me; much has happened in the past week that has kept me quite busy. For starters: the project finally opened!!!

Say hello to Copa Café!

A Panoramic (rather small) view of the lovely
Coffee Wine Bar Bakery

After months of brainstorming, decision taking, barista training, construction works, menu pricing, arguments and discussions, our baby was born. And we couldn't be happier or proud. Sure, the real work comes now and despite the hesitation, we're more than ready. 

When last we met, I was heading to bed. I woke up well, surprisingly. Wednesday marked the beginning of what were to be two very, VERY, long days. Wednesday was shorter though. To balance off the baking in my kitchen, with one pair of hands and my trusty oven, I began the preparations baking layers, making fillings, blind baking tart bases, you know... the usual hahaha. I did finish a bit past my bedtime, but the bases were finished. Because I was stressed out and worried thinking about the amount of baking ahead, it was no surprise I had baking nightmares and a bad headache. I woke up tired and with contracted muscles, but duty called and before I knew it, it was past 3 in the afternoon. And I still had eleven hours to go. Yes...eleven, because it turns out, I clocked in 17 hours: from 9 am to 2 am Friday morning. I was so engrossed in the baking, washing pans, cleaning up, prepping up, measuring, whipping, pouring and the same over and over and over again, that time flew by. By the time I was done, having just frosted my lovely lavender cupcakes, my legs no longer held my body weight and my feet were killing me. I wanted so badly to take a shower, but I succumbed to my sleep. 

Rosed Out Lemon Meringue Tart

Sadly, five hours weren't enough after what felt and eternity in the kitchen and by the time I had showered and dressed up, I was running late, trying to fit everything snuggly in the car. My overall state felt worse than that after a night of heavy drinking; Yes...worse than a hangover. With a banana in my bag and heavy eyes, I drove over to the project, surprised I made it in time and safely. I ran on automatic the entire day, having eaten only my banana, a slice of pizza and having chugged down more coffee than ever. But the pastry corner looked marvelous and better than I hoped for. I managed to sneak out for less than an hour to get my hair done. Come on! Opening night, dead tired, looking like a raccoon, the least I could do to look presentable was pamper my hair. And thankfully I did. So many pictures were taken, my smile froze my face. I'm sure I look like a freaky clown in some of them. But  we finally opened. With a few words from my partners and myself, we thanked everyone for kindly showing up and supporting us. Bottles of wine later, a short night out, and finally getting to bed, my long day was over. 

Try pairing it with a wonderful fruity Riesling
and you have yourself the perfect marriage!

I slept in for a bit. I woke up feeling rather rested, but still, remains of tiredness remained. I composed my self throughout the day. It was our first day open for the entire public, so I still had to be at the project early. I took in a magazine for baking inspiration, and enjoyed the little I could browse through it with my coffee. I barely sat down to do my baking research. A lot of people popped in to say hello, so it was more of a social day. I left a little before closing time and headed home. I waited until a reasonable hour to sleep, and I was out like a light. I woke up excited Sunday morning as it was Election Day and just before noon, we headed to our designated voting room, made our choices and got our pinkies stained. My duty as a citizen was done and home we headed for lunch. After a short break, the kitchen called and the baking began. A couple of cakes and other goodies later, I was asleep again. Monday came sooner than I wished and before I knew it, I was finishing off the cakes and applying the final touches when we decided to close the place for the day for reasons beyond our control. So I finished the cakes peacefully and visited my grandmother.

I really love the holidays <3

Tuesday morning I was rushing...again, trying to fit everything in the car...again, but the dessert fridge looked positively sweet! I was glad my long days and kitchen hours provided great results. I headed home in the late afternoon and began preparations for today's baking. Thankfully, not much has to be replenished, so I took on a couple of side orders and have been focusing on them instead. I never thought it would be hard to balance my orders and the cafe's but it is. In the near future, I will have help, as I have finally come to realize my two short arms and legs and one oven aren't enough to fulfill the orders and satisfy the many cravings for sweet things. It took me long enough, right? I mean, any other person would take the raccoon eyes and backaches as a hint, but there you have me: stubborn and messy and sleepy, hehehehe. 

The day is quite gloomy and slightly chilly. Can't wait to have my second cup of coffee to warm me up and give me that kick of energy that I need. With a pumpkin cheesecake in the making and another order to fulfill, my day is sure to be sweet and gray. 

I wish you all a lovely week, a Happy Thanksgiving, a safe Black Friday and a wonderful weekend.

Until next time.

xx

A Brave New World: Taking that Leap of Faith

Hi Guys!!!

Welcome back!!! My sincerest apologies for not posting yesterday; To be honest, Monday completely flew by and I dropped down dead, only to realize it was about to be midnight and my blog was postless. Nevertheless, here I am, wishing you all a happy Tuesday night. Despite the sleepiness in my eyes and overall weariness, I can't help but smile. The day  was magnificently beautiful. Clear blue sky and a slight...slight...chill in the air. Not to mention, that two of the greatest people and greatest friends became parents this past weekend. We have a beautiful baby boy joining our family. Welcome to the world Werner Phillippe!

Copa Cafe...coming soon!!!

Now, because the opening date for the project is swiftly approaching (finally got a date!!!) I am scared and going insane, thinking about the amount of things I have to bake...at home...with one oven. Yes...it finally hit me, my kitchen isn't big anymore. In fact, I don't think I have ever seen it this small. It'll work out, that I know, but the stress of the time in between now and finally opening is killing me. I wish I could close my eyes, snap my fingers and voila! Have cakes appear before me. Sadly, my imagination is only that...images in my head. Reality check: done. 

Just a few of the beauties I'll be whipping up

I still owe you the lovely pumpkin roll I have in mind. I just don't know where time goes. Lately, it feels like I'm waking up, minutes pass, I sleep and the same short cycle happens all over again. Even coffee is losing its touch. I need a pause button. 

On the plus side, I can't wait to finally open and experience what it really is like to be your own boss in the kitchen. So far, I've catered to specific orders, but now, I have the liberty of creating anything I want...ANYTHING!!! And that thought brings a big smile to my face. The idea also made me think of the most incredible surprise my partners made for me. It was fully revealed to me today!!! They gave me my own PASTRY CORNER!!! I found out earlier last week, as a result of a slight mistake, and I couldn't believe the thoughtfulness of the idea and I am ever so grateful!!! So yes, another happy feeling to join my jittery eagerness.

The Little Chef has her own CORNER!!!

I really haven't much to write, as I haven't been baking that much. I've delivered a couple of orders and I finished a delicious batch of ginger spice cookies earlier tonight. Just their smell is enough to make your mouth water and as soon as you bite into it, the chewiness makes you drown in it. So be sure to try the recipe from a while back. Those babies will come in handy later on this week. They're crucial to one of the cheesecakes I'll be making. 

It's funny how life gives you random turns. Just a year ago, I was training to become a Chef. Never in that time, did it once occur to me that I'd be partnering up and opening a business.  And even scarier, as a still-in-the-learning-process Chef, to be responsible for an entire kitchen. I feel I have very big shoes to fill. Thankfully I have a wonderful family and great group of friends who have not once doubted I'd be making it out there. So please, wish us luck!!!

With a new leaf to turn in a new chapter in my life, I bid you farewell and good night. Have a great week!!! I look forward to tell you everything about the opening on Monday!!!

Until next time!!!
xx

Christmas Baking for Long November Days

Hi Guys!!!

Welcome back!!! Gray clouds hovered above us on this chilly and gloomy November day. Supposedly our rainy season should be officially over, but a late bout of rain showers have delighted us with their presence. Happily enough, I have had to remain at home for the morning as a photo shoot of a lovely jumbo cupcake took place. Easily enough, it was the highlight of my day. While I had fun baking and assembling the beautiful Christmas tree cupcake, IT, however, decided it was nice to collapse on me...twice. Yes, it sounds like a laughing matter, and the back of the finished product is, but in the spur of the moment, it caused me great anxiety and panic.  Still, it turned out great and it impressed the camera.

Voila! Le finished tree!!!

Last week, I mentioned a pumpkin roll and I hate to admit I got nowhere near making one. But I PROMISE!!! I will be making one in the coming days. I got sidetracked with some interesting baking the following day. If you recall, I've made a Salted Caramel Chocolate Cake several times, for several people. Well, the cake caught a magazine's creative director's eye and guess what?! I was asked to do a Step-by-Step that will be featured in next month's edition!!! So you can imagine my excitement!!! I was a nervous wreck an hour before the people showed up at my door, not knowing what to expect. And honestly, I don't think it could have gone any smoother or better. It was the first time I felt at ease with more than two people in the kitchen watching my every move and recording it. Because everything was photographed, it took much longer than baking any cake. Thank the Lord I had pre-baked chocolate layers. 

4 layers of moist, chocolate madness

I was excited, but mostly relieved, that the process was smooth as frosting and they enjoyed the cake so much, it went home with them. Due to that cake, I was then offered the magazine cover (EEEK!!!) and was petitioned to create an edible Christmas tree: refer to the above picture. So with a happy mind, I made my way to the project, and to my surprise, I finally began to see the pieces start to come together. The paint job was done, the equipment set in place and despite the amount of dust, I could hardly contain my utter happiness. As the days progressed, the place began to take its final shape and today the last piece of the puzzle was set: the terrace door. So tomorrow, we can expect a clean and shiny floor. 

It's gonna be fabulous!!!

Friday morning, I decided to try out an adapted recipe for an Italian favorite: florentines. I thought I had made them before in school, but I was wrong. So I dug up a recipe, and changed it for the better...hehehe. Tip: leave the candied zest in the syrup over night. 

I tested the cooking times and was extremely happy with myself and the result. The final touch was the dark chocolate gently brushed under each cookie. So please try out the recipe and be sure to leave your comments. It is a flawless recipe.

Mmmm!!!

Now, because my head was a million miles away from this Earth, every little thing was stressing me out and when the evening approached and my duties and daily jobs were completed, my body decided it needed to relax and boom! Sleepiness and drowsiness kicked in. I didn't get to bed until after midnight, and sadly, I woke up early (again). Much had to be done, so no beauty sleep for me. Sunday I got to sleep in (not really) and managed to make a beautiful mess out of the kitchen (to my mother's dismay), getting ready for the Christmas Tree giant cupcake. It was lopsided when I "finished" it and stressing out over being late for a project meeting, my mother and I agreed, it'd be best for both, the cupcake and my sanity, that I return after the meeting to finish it. I did complete the set of fondant and gum paste candy canes before I let, so I crossed that off the list. The meeting was shorter than expected, so I was back home in no time, about to witness a major disaster. 

Yes...I felt like dying.

I remolded the "muffin top" to resemble a cone to make do as a Christmas tree, using mini cupcakes for support and height. I whipped up more frosting, covered it in piped roses and placed it in the fridge to set. Sadly, in five minutes, my mother informed me that the cake had collapsed. My heart froze, sank, went back up and sank again as I witnessed, in horror, the terrible green cascade that was once the delicious cream cheese buttercream frosting roses. Out of confectioner's sugar and contemplating a three hour period to remake everything as a terrible suggestion, my mom came up with a simple solution: considering it was only made for photographic purposes, the cascade was to become the unseen back and the beautiful back was to become the pretty picture. Reluctantly, I accepted and it resulted in a glorious, not-so-petite Christmas tree!!! With my mind at ease, I went to bed. 

My baby...in the corner,
where I'll be showcasing my creations

Groggy and tired, I woke up this morning to a chill in the air. A workout, a shower and coffee "jumpstarted" my day. The photography team came in, was amazed at my work (despite the back fiasco), took the necessary pictures and left. The rest of the day passed in a blur (lunch, weighing cheese for a platter and enjoying a lovely cup of coffee, personalized with my nickname). A burger dinner and supper talk later, here we are. My eyes are closing and soon I'll be drifting off. It has been one long week, and now, we great another one. Be sure to try out the recipe (seriously). And with that, I take my leave.

A smiling cup of coffee is enough to make my day

Happy Monday and a Happy November Week!!!

Until next time.

xx

Florentines

Ingredients:

200 g butter, softened

200 g dark brown sugar

120 g all-purpose flour

120 g almonds, chopped

120 g walnuts, chopped

120 g pecans, chopped

1 oz candied orange zest*

Chocolate (milk or dark, preferably) melted

*Can be purchased. I prefer making my own: 

75 ml water

75 g sugar

grated zest

Preparations:

Preheat the oven to 355 F. Cream the butter and sugar together. Mix in the flour until smooth. Add the chopped nuts and candied zest. Place rounded teaspoonfuls of the dough (roll them up and pat them slightly) on a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat, spaced approximately 3 inches apart (they cookies spread). Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Allow them to set for a few minutes. Carefully transfer them to a rack and let cool completely. Using a thin brush, gently apply two thin layers of melted chocolate on the bottom of each cookie. Refrigerate to set the chocolate and ENJOY!!!

Welcome Sunshine, Welcome November

Hi Guys!!!

Welcome back!!! I cannot hold my happiness any longer!!! It's finally November!!! Elsewhere in the world, people are wrapping themselves up to go out, enjoying a delicious hot chocolate. Here, however, the days grow slightly cooler, the sun happily shining, as the end of our winter (rainy season) approaches. Not to mention, that the project I'm part of is about to open as well. As freaked out as I may be, I've waited for this moment for months now and to finally see it complete will be a dream come true. 

A lovely wine pairing session took place 

This past week has had its ups and downs, but I can't complain really. Well, more like I shouldn't complain. Much has been going my way, which scares me a little, as I'm afraid it'll build up for a massive fall. But until then, I should simply enjoy the ride. 

I felt a little old school, per se, and went back to basics, baking a lovely load of scrumptious chocolate tarts for a tasting. Adding walnuts certainly added a needed flavor, and still can wait to keep experimenting with these babies. They're so good. It's been a long time since I went back to old recipes. I spent that night reminiscing on school days, thinking how quickly 10 months have gone by and I am a certified Chef, although half my time, I don't feel I'm worthy of the title. Hopefully this project will help me gain more experience in the kitchen department. 

Baking late at night is sometimes a beautiful bliss

The following evening involved wine bottles and baked goodies. Not to enjoy entirely. It was a wine pairing session, and despite the late hour and sleepy eyes, much was accomplished. A lovely passion fruit cheesecake brought in was no match for the wines. Its tangy and acidic deliciousness left the wines far behind in taste. So I'm still on the look out for that wine that will marry this culinary spectacle. Any ideas?

Lining of the tarts!!!

The week simply blew by...short meetings, long meetings, coffee tasting,  wine tasting, fingers burned by my lovely oven and suddenly, its Sunday. The sky was gloriously blue, with blazing rays of sunshine pouring everywhere. How I wished to stay in bed all day, but sadly, duty called and I was up early, finishing up a couple of cakes. Just before noon, I was in the car, driving to town, delivering them and heading back home. My initial wish was somewhat granted, managing to stay in bed until around 5 in the evening. I headed over to grandma's for a short visit and it was soon nightfall. I was in no mood to be productive, so I dozed off after a Disney movie marathon.

And here we are. 6 a.m. painted a gloomy sky. Two hours later, I was enjoying my coffee, while fixing up the Christmas tree's lighting. With that done, I headed out, had a short meeting, enjoyed my lunch and will now consider some Christmas tunes to continue to enjoy my day. My afternoon involves several errands and a lovely pumpkin roll. So be sure to pop in next week for the result and recipe!!!

Until next time.

xx

Celebrating Halloween With A Strawberry Shortcake

Hi guys!!!

Welcome back!!! This week we say goodbye to October and we'll be welcoming in November. However, before that can take place, we of course, have to make room for one of my favorite celebrations: Halloween. 

While most of the past week was spent running errands and several meetings, my baking has been on hold. I have a couple of orders to fill in this week, so I'll have some fun in my kitchen. My mother, however, made sure there was some cake for Sunday. She made a delicious cake version of Strawberry Shortcakes. It was wonderful, even though I had not idea whipped cream on the side was the cherry on top.

Mouthwatering...I hope there's some still left

I'll have some catching up to do after that strawberry sensation. Apart from my orders, I also have several projects in mind, concerning mainly, the final months left in this year and more specifically, their holidays. I'll admit, I'm a sucker for holiday celebrations and it great, because all my favorite ones are in the last three months of every year: the most wonderful time of all!!! 

Even more exciting is the fact that our Christmas tree is well on its way. Seeing as it is a pre-lit tree, and since last year, a small part just won't light up, we went ahead and set it up to fix it up. Sadly, no one could tell us what is wrong and now we have to intertwine a separate extension to have light. It's a minimal problem and soon, the lovely Christmas tree will be lighting up our home. 

Now, after a busy week that flew by in seconds, I was absolutely happy when Friday landed.  I managed to trim my locks and style it a bit more (mind you, when I mean managed to trim, I don't mean my coordinate-less hands...I went to the hairdresser). I was mostly stoked about a Halloween themed wedding shower that evening. I have always loved this costume filled celebration and I try to enjoy it every year. Last year, I did not manage to dress up or even celebrate. My only consolation was carving out my first pumpkin ever! I don't know if you recall my portrayal of Jack Skellington; if not, here you go:

The Pumpkin King!

Returning to Friday, I had everything ready, except for some white face paint. I wasn't sure if I was going to need it, and in the end, I decided it was absolutely necessary. So I managed to get one that wasn't heavy on the face or exaggeratedly white. It was more of a blotting kind of foundation. I was home quite early, avoiding the annoying traffic that seems to infect every route in the late afternoon. So I had some time to rest a bit and enough time to get ready. By 8:00 in the evening, I was emerging my house in a spectacular costume. Spectacular for two reasons: firstly, no one could me miss me and secondly, it is one of my favorite characters from Tim Burton's fantastic world: Beetlejuice (in his female form).

Beetlejuice!!! Beetlejuice!!! Beetlejuice!!!
The leading bio-exorcist (verdad Lucy?)

After a long night and little sleep, I was pretty much a zombie my entire Saturday. It constituted food, my bed and a Doctor Who marathon. Yes, I am a Whovian. Despite having  another exciting costume ready for a party that night, my bed begged me to stay and I happily obliged. I can't wait for this Thursday to rock my other attire hahahaha. 

With closing eyes and a sleepy mind, I was gone, greeting a beautiful Sunday at 6:00 a.m. to whip up an order. I also had another meeting, which funnily enough got canceled as I was arriving. Not to mention, I delivered the prepared dessert until 3:00 p.m. in the afternoon. I really woke up that early for nothing. But a soothing cup of coffee for breakfast at my grandma's was all I needed to forget my sleepiness. I went back home for a delicious lunch, waited until delivery time, made that delivery and went back to my grandma's house (she's my neighbor). I made myself another cup of much needed coffee, took my nieces and cousin to mingle with my doggies and agreed to supervise them while they made cupcakes. Despite everyone's enthusiasm and participation, their lovely cakes barely rose. 

Lesson to be learned: too many cooks, spoil the broth. 

My lovelies

A quick supper and laughter later, I headed back home. My drowsy mind was giving in, but I had promised myself to read at least one more chapter from my current book: Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare. My jaw dropped by the end of it, but I couldn't keep my eyes open anymore. And soon after, I drifted off. I think I rested well enough, because I woke up a little sleepy, but had enough energy to get out of bed and work out. A gloomy, chilly Monday received me this morning, but it's gotten warmer. Rain has delighted us with its presence and we can expect more, later on this afternoon. I still have some coffee left in my mug, so I wish you a great week and a fantastic weekend. And oh, Happy Halloween!!!

Until next time!!!

xx

A Wine Kinda Weekend...with some Cake of Course!

Hi Guys!!!

Welcome back. It's a beautiful October evening, and due to a national holiday, I find myself happily typing away on my bed. It's a nice change from sitting behind a desk, chugging coffee, because once again, it is Monday and you have orders to fill in your cozy, rather messy kitchen. So while you enjoy your late coffee (yes, I just finished one), I'll recap you on my culinary adventures of this past week. 

My mom was away on a trip and strangely, the house was quiet. My week involved meetings and running errands, driving around like a reckless woman because I finally "manned up" and decided to take the wheel. It's been an adventurous week and despite not fully understanding what it means to grow up, I think I took a step forward in that direction this week. And yes, I do have a license, if that's what you are wondering. 

You can imagine my excitment

She came back on Thursday and while I couldn't stay for long to ask her about the trip due to meetings and errands needing attention, she managed to surprise me at night. Let's just say Christmas came early for me, for as soon as I entered my room, I looked upon my gifts. All sorts of culinary equipment for my kitchen adventures, reading books, cookbooks, Christmas baking ideas, etc... I managed to break in some of them this week, preparing some goodies to pair up with wines (part of the new project). But I couldn't ogle my new things for long, as I had to prepare a friend's yummy birthday cake: Apple Carrot Cake. 

A decadent and moist cake

Friday morning was spent in meetings, buying equipment and enjoying a quick lunch. In the afternoon, we had a second lesson in the world of wine, on how to properly open, serve and decant. I couldn't stay for the last part, but much was absorbed, so I headed home content. I quickly applied the final touches to the cake. While I was disappointed in my decorating skills this time, it was highly enjoyed later on in the evening. Although, next time I'll use more apples than carrot. The flavor didn't come through against the carrots.

My aunt and cousin planned a friend his birthday celebration, with much food, wine and dancing. A song was sang, the cake was cut and soon after, we were all heading home. 

The decoration needs some improvement

I guess most of us woke up a bit groggy, but the enjoyment the previous night was worth it. I couldn't stay in bed all day, as I wanted. Kitchen duties required my full attention and my entire afternoon was spent baking chocolate tarts, lavender cupcakes and passion fruit and white chocolate cheesecakes. I'll be posting the recipes soon, so be sure to come back. I finished around 5:30 in the evening, but still needed to whip up a cilantro mousse. I was missing some crucial ingredients, so I waited till around 7:00 p.m. I had a quick dinner, but had to postpone my "cooking" to later on, as I left at 8 that night, to run a last minute errand for an early Sunday meeting. I came back at 10 p.m. and thankfully I was in bed by 11 o'clock. 

I hadn't slept much in the past days, so it was no wonder I had swollen eyes and a sleepy mind. Two bananas aided my attempt to wake up and drive. The rest of the morning was helped by the crazy amount of wines we had arranged to taste. It is safe to say I was dizzy by the time we had to pair up foods with wines. I couldn't manage to help out with the red ones. I had to take a nap. It was actually funny and we managed to find a suitable partner for my lavender cupcakes: a lovely Riesling. My chocolate tart had a winning fight with a delicious Ruby Port, so I'll have to tweak that recipe. The available wines, however, were no match for the exquisite tangy flavors of the passion fruit cheesecakes; that's my homework for the coming days.

These are only the reds...

My Sunday afternoon involved coffee with grandma and resting throughout the evening. Today, I woke up late (9:30 a.m.), fixed myself a lovely cup of coffee and enjoyed reruns of the nanny. Lunch was delicious and I was treated to a mani-pedi, while I received a phone call from my bestie all the way in London. I just came back from my grandma's, where I love to have coffee and I'm thinking about the roast chicken waiting to be eaten at dinner. I hope you have enjoyed your past week as much as I did and I wish you a great one to come. 

Happy Monday!!!

Until next time,

xx

Apple Carrot Cake

A medley of flavors

Ingredients:

Candied Walnuts:

1 egg white

1 cup walnuts

1 T. sugar

1/2 t. cinnamon

Cake:

2 C. sugar

1 C. oil

4 large eggs

2 C. all-purpose flour

2 t. baking soda

1 t. cinnamon

1 t. ground ginger

1/2 t. salt

2 C. grated carrots

2 C. cooked, diced apples*

1 C. walnuts, chopped

Frosting:

2 1/2 sticks butter, softened

12 oz. cream cheese, softened

4-5 C. confectioner's sugar

a few drops maple syrup**

**too many makes the frosting soft.

Preparation:

Candied Nuts:

Preheat oven to 375°F. Line large baking sheet with foil. Beat egg white in medium bowl until foamy. Mix in remaining ingredients. Spread pecans in single layer on prepared sheet. Bake until pecans are golden, about 10 minutes. Cool on baking sheet. Transfer to work surface and chop coarsely.

Cake:

*Chop 2 Granny Smith Apples and 2 Fuji apples into small cubes.  Melt 1 tablespoon butter in heavy large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add all apples; cover and simmer until apples are juicy and almost tender, stirring occasionally, about 18 minutes. Uncover and simmer until almost all juices evaporate, about 6 minutes. Do not smash. Allow to cool.

Position rack in center of oven and preheat to 350°F. Butter and flour two 9-inch-diameter or two 9 1/2-inch-diameter cake pans with 1 1/2-inch-high sides. Using electric mixer, beat sugar, oil and eggs in large bowl until well blended. Add flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger and salt; beat until blended. Stir in apples and carrots and walnuts. Divide batter between pans.

Bake cakes until tester inserted into center comes out clean, about 32-35 minutes. Cool cakes in pans on rack 15 minutes. Run small knife between pan sides and cakes to loosen. Turn cakes out onto racks; cool completely.

Tip: Try 3 cups of apples, instead of two and reduce the carrots to 1 cup. The apple flavor should transmit.

Frosting:

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter using an electric mixer at medium-high speed until fluffy. Reduce speed to medium-low and add maple syrup. Gradually mix in confectioner's sugar, beating until smooth.

Assembly:

Place 1 cake layer on plate; spread 1/2 cup icing over top (or as much as you like...there's plenty frosting). Top with second cake layer. Spread remaining icing over top and sides of cake. Arrange cinnamon-sugar pecans in desired pattern. Chill cake until icing sets, about 30 minutes. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover with cake dome and keep chilled. Bring to room temperature before serving.)