As a born and bred New Yorker (Queens), I’ve eaten (and baked) a few babka in my life. They were all reasonably good, some definitely better than others. But really, what’s not to like about the humble babka? I’m talking chocolate babka here. Is there any other? Basically, a sweet brioche-like pastry filled with chocolate (dark … Continue Reading

Within the past few days, I’ve cleaned out my local grocer of their supply of blood oranges. I can’t get enough of them. Wasn’t planning on doing anything in particular with them, save for enjoying them. Not everything needs to be blogged about, right? Well, that was a short-lived notion. When I sliced open the … Continue Reading

Pistachio Florentine lace cookies are wafer-thin, toffee-like, buttery, subtly nutty treats. They’re unique looking, by no means your average, run-of-the-mill cookie. As they bake, they spread out and form a delicate lace pattern, hence their name. And, I’ll let you in on a little secret, these cookies are easy to make. The batter comes together … Continue Reading

Just a quick one today — Sweet and Spicy Rosemary Mixed Nuts. Honey + cayenne + rosemary are a winning combination. I love that this mixture of nuts is not too sweet, with just the right amount of heat — and the rosemary adds an extra depth of flavor. Sticky addictive nut clusters they are. … Continue Reading

Even though it’s been hovering around 80 degrees in Philadelphia the past couple of days (in mid-October), can we pretend for just a moment that it’s a brisk fall/wintry day. Let’s set the mood — brrr it’s cold, perhaps a flurry or two, and you’re sitting in front of the fireplace (if you have one, … Continue Reading