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Tres Leche Cake, One Year of Blogging, and a Giveaway!

Posted in Dessert, tagged , , , , , , on March 16, 2012| 90 Comments »

Yesterday was my first anniversary here at Relishing It.  For me, it’s a bit mind-boggling.  I remember the day I told Radd that I wanted to write a food blog.  I recall mulling over what I wanted the blog to be about, and being both excited and nervous when I finally took the plunge with that first post.  As much as I love having a visual place to keep my most-loved recipes, I really wanted share them with people.  And, of course, I wondered if anyone would read them?  Thankfully, all of you have been stopping by to share in this with me.  You’ve helped make blogging a wonderful experience.  ‘Life-changing’ may sound a bit dramatic, but for me it’s close to the truth.

I was a bit fearful that I’d be doing this solo– sequestered in my kitchen cooking/baking away then writing to no one about it.  Instead, blogging has opened up a whole new social world.  I had no idea there were so many MN food bloggers.  And I was surprised to see how close-knit, and accepting they all were.  In the last year, I’ve made friendships through blogging that mean the world to me.  I’ve also been lucky enough to “meet” so many wonderful people through Twitter.  People who are as excited about food, health, and the environment as I am.  I’ve had the opportunity to chat with chefs and writers that I admire in the culinary world– people who have taken the time to help with advice and support.  The internet can really close those vast spaces between people, and I’m thankful that through Relishing It, my world has expanded beyond our little neighborhood in St. Paul, MN.

I will say, there are definite ups and downs to food blogging.  It’s a huge commitment.  Testing the recipes, taking the photographs, and then writing about the experience often takes a colossal amount of time.  And it’s not exactly convenient.  As I write this, I chuckle when I think about how many times I’ve cursed at having to open the kitchen door in mid-January to try to squeeze the last bit of sunlight into the room for a decent photo.  And trying to keep two small children entertained while frosting a multi-layer cake always makes things ‘interesting’.  Even so, it’s been such a wonderful experience for me.

As a thank you to you readers who stop by my little corner of the internet to see what I have to say; and to my wonderful friends and family who are always so encouraging, I’m giving away a prize to mark my first anniversary!  By now you all know that I love cookbooks.  One lucky reader will get to choose one of these lovely cookbooks that I often turn to for inspiration:  “In the Kitchen With a Good Appetite”  by Melissa Clark, “Plenty” by Yotam Ottolenghi, and “Super Natural Every Day”, by Heidi Swanson.  A crisp new one, of course (I wouldn’t dream of parting with mine.)  To enter the contest just leave a comment– say whatever you want– at the end of this post.  If you follow me on  twitter , and tweet about my giveaway, you’ll get a second entry.  You must come back to the comment section here and tell me you did so in a separate comment.  Here’s a sample tweet.  “Enter to win a cookbook from @LaurieJKul to celebrate “Relishing It’s”  first blogiversary!  Enter here: https://relishingit.com/2012/03/16/tres-leche-cake-one-year-of-blogging-and-a-giveaway/ #giveaway”.  You can even enter a third time if you subscribe to Relishing It– again, just tell me in a separate comment on this blog post.  The contest ends on March 22, 2012 at 11:59 pm Eastern Time.  It’s is only open to US residents (sorry).  Please be sure to leave your email in the appropriate spot in the comment section, so that I may contact the winner.  Allow roughly 4 weeks to receive your cookbook.  (I’m just being realistic folks — why is it so hard to get to the post office?)  Good Luck!

UPDATE:  The winner of the cookbook giveaway is Tammy Kimbler!  Congratulations Tammy!  The winner was chosen using Random.org.  Thank you All for the very kind and wonderful comments.  I enjoyed reading through all of them.

And since we’re celebrating, I thought it fitting to share my family’s go-to celebration cake.  This is the King of the Cakes in our house– all four of use would pick this beauty over anything else.  The is cake layered in three different types of milk…well, actually four.  It’s a simple whipped cream “frosting” with a bit of creme fraiche mixed in to help it hold its shape.  If you can’t find creme fraiche, just make it without it.  The extra fat content in creme fraiche helps the whipped cream keep it’s shape longer, but will certainly be delicious without it.  This cake can last for about 2 days in the refrigerator if covered, but for optimum results should be eaten right away.   The best part?  It’s quite easy to make.  I hope you give it a try!

The Recipe:  Tres Leche Cake

For the Cake:

2 large eggs, room temperature

3/4 cup (5 1/2 ounces) granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup,  canola oil

1 cup all-purpose flour (4 1/2 ounces)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature (or microwaved a few seconds)

For the Soaking Liquid:

1/2 can (7 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup half and half

For the Topping:

1/2 cup (2 1/4 ounces) confectioners’ sugar

4 cups heavy cream, cold

1/3 cup creme fraiche, cold

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preheat the oven to 350°F.  Prepare a 8-inch round cake pan by buttering it, lining with parchment paper, buttering the parchment, and lightly coating it with flour.  Tap out any excess.  Set aside.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.  Set aside.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, add the eggs, sugar, and vanilla.  Mix on medium for about 2-3 minutes, or until there is a bit of volume and the mixture is a light pale color.  Add the oil, and mix for a minute longer, until it is thoroughly combined.  Scrape down the sides, as needed.  Sprinkle dry ingredients over the wet and mix until combined, about 30 seconds.  Add the buttermilk and mix until just combined — do not over mix.  Bake for 25-27 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a cake tester comes out with almost no crumbs.  Cool completely in the pan.

When the cake has cooled, begin making the soaking liquid.  Mix the sweetened condensed milk, half and half, and vanilla in a medium bowl and set aside.

Run a knife along the edges of the pan to loosen the cake.  Invert cake onto a flat surface, such as a plate.  Using a serrated knife, horizontally cut the cake into two equal halves.  Place each half, cut side up, into it’s own rimmed baking sheet, or anything flat that it will fit into.  Slowly pour the liquid equally over each of the cake halves.   Let it soak in while you prepare the whipped topping.

In a cold bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the cold whisk attachment, add the heavy cream.  Start on low and slowly increase the speed to medium-high.  After about a minute, add the creme fraiche.  Continue beating and when it’s about half-way whipped  slowly sprinkle the confectioners’ sugar into the cream.  Continue beating on medium-high until it is fully whipped, is smooth and has shape.  Be careful not to over-whip or it will look curdled.

On a cake stand place the bottom layer of cake, cut side up.  At this point, it’s a good idea to tuck waxed paper under the edges of the cake.  It will catch any topping and make clean-up a cinch.   Mound 1/3 of the topping onto it and smooth it out with an offset spatula.  Place the other layer of cake, cut side down on top of that.  Place 1/3 of the topping on the sides, and 1/3 on the top.  Smooth out with an offset spatula. Garnish with raspberries.  Best if eaten right away, but will keep fairly well covered in the refrigerator for 2 days.  3 days is pushing it, but I’ve certainly devoured a piece at that point.

Source:  Adapted from this recipe originally from Cafe Latté in St. Paul, MN

A special thank you to my husband, Radd, for all of his help on this blog this past year — I truly appreciate it.  To Radd and our kids — thank you all for being so patient as I snap picture of our dinner before we devour it.  And thanks for always being excited (or pretending to be ) to try new things.  Thanks to my readers, once again for always stopping by to say hello!  I can’t wait to see where this next year will take us!

Laurie

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Grasshopper Bars

Posted in Dessert, tagged , , , , , , , , on March 12, 2012| 8 Comments »

The St. Patrick’s Day preparations are in full-swing at our house!  My parents will be coming for a visit this weekend to help us celebrate, and my kids are about to burst with excitement!  The brisket is already in it’s brine for homemade corned beef.  I made and toasted my own mixture for pickling spice this year.  The fragrance was fantastic.  So exciting!  The fun party hats and favors have been purchased, and I found a fabulous “green” dessert to help mark the day.

I’ve actually been wanting to make these bars for quite some time, but that beautiful green hue made be hold off until St. Patrick’s Day.  Last year I made this indulgent stout cake that still ranks as one of my favorite cakes of all time.  Apparently, a bit of alcohol in the token St. Patty’s Day dessert is how we roll in the Kulseth house.

My kids are big fans of mint.  In these bars, when combined with the chocolate, it’s brilliant.  These little numbers do not disappoint.  The brownie layer is perfectly fudge-y.  It’s worth noting that under-baking the brownie layer by a minute or so will lead to a perfect bar in the end.  The mint buttercream in the center is ideal– perfectly minty, but not overpowering.  And the top layer is a rich chocolate shell that holds it all together.  These bars keep very well, they’ll last at least 4 days in the refrigerator.

The Recipe: Grasshopper Bars

For the Brownie:

3/4 cup (4 ounces) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 tablespoon Dutch-processed unsweetened cocoa

5 ounces good quality dark chocolate (60-72%) coarsely chopped (I used Sharffen Berger)

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into chunks

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar

3 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon espresso powder

For the Buttercream:

3/4 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3/4 cup milk

2 tablespoons heavy cream

1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) unsalted butter, softened but still cool, cut into small chunks

3 tablespoons crème de menthe

1 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the Chocolate Glaze:

6 ounces good-quality dark chocolate (60-72%) coarsely chopped

1 teaspoon light corn syrup

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened, cut into chunks

Preheat oven to 325°F.  Butter the sides and bottom of a glass or metal 9-by-13-inch pan.  Line the bottom with parchment paper, and butter the parchment.  Set aside.

To make the Brownie:  In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cocoa powder.  Set aside.  In a small saucepan over medium/low heat,  add the chocolate and the butter.  Stirring constantly with a rubber spatula until everything is completely melted.  Be careful not to burn the chocolate.  Alternately, this can be done over a hot water bath.  Remove from heat and whisk in the sugars until they are completely combined.  Pour into a large bowl, and let sit until it cools to room temperature.

In a small bowl, gently mix the 3 eggs, vanilla, and espresso powder.  Add the egg mixture to the bowl of chocolate.   Whisk until just combined.  Be careful to not over -mix the batter, as it will lead to a cakey brownie.  Sprinkle the flour mixture over the chocolate and fold the dry ingredients into the wet using a rubber spatula until just a trace amount of flour/cocoa mixture is visible.  Again, do not over-mix.

Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth out with an offset spatula.  Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating halfway.  These brownies will benefit from being slightly under-baked.  A toothpick inserted into the brownies at an angle should contain a few loose crumbs.  Remove from oven and let cool completely.

To make the Buttercream:  In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk the sugar and flour together.  Add the milk and cream and cook and cook over medium heat, whisking often until the mixture comes to a boil and has thickened, about 5-7 minutes.

Transfer the mixture to a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment.  Beat on high speed until cool.  Reduce speed to low and add the butter and mix until thoroughly incorporated.  Increase the speed to medium-high and beat until filling is light and fluffy.  Add the crème de menthe and peppermint extract and mix until combined.  If the buttercream is too soft, chill slightly in the refrigerator and then mix again until it is the right consistency.  If the buttercream is too firm, place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and re-mix to the right consistency.  Spread the filling evenly across the top of the cooled brownie layer and place the pan in the refrigerator for a minimum of 45 minutes.

To make the Chocolate Glaze:  In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the chocolate, corn syrup, and butter.  Stir constantly with a rubber spatula until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.  Remove from heat and stir vigorously for 1 minute to release some of the heat.  Pour the mixture over the chilled mint buttercream layer.  Use an offset spatula to smooth it out into an even layer.  Place the pan back in the refrigerator until it hardens, about 1 hour.

It is best to cut into the bars using a knife warmed underneath warm water, wiped clean each time.  Store the bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.  Enjoy!

Source:  Adapted from Baked Explorations

Be sure to check back later this week  — Relishing It will be having it’s first giveaway and I’m so excited!

Laurie

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Chocolate, Walnut, and Oatmeal Cookies with Browned Butter and Coconut Oil

Posted in Dessert, tagged , , , , , , , on March 9, 2012| 10 Comments »

I know, I know, could I possible have a more lengthy title for a recipe?  I could.  I didn’t mention the whole wheat flour.  You get the idea.  This is a cookie recipe I’ve been playing around with for the last few weeks.  You already know that I’m a cookie fiend, so this one is for me (and hopefully you).  It has all of my favorite  flavors that make-up a perfect cookie.

Let’s break this down.  First, I wanted to create a cookie that contains coconut oil.  You can read a bit about it here on my friend Amy’s blog.  Not only do I love the health factor, but the flavor is phenomenal.  Use virgin coconut oil as opposed to regular, as it has a more noticeable coconut flavor.   Then there’s the browned butter.  Is there anything that brown butter does not make better?  Of course not.  It adds a deep caramel-like flavor that is unforgettable.  The toasted walnuts add a brilliant crunch.  Now cookies are obviously not going to be terribly healthy, but I slipped in whole wheat flour and rolled oats for fiber.   Finally, we get to the chocolate chips.  Use good quality chocolate, or even go the chunk route and chop your own.

All of these elements come together to make this delicious cookie.  It’s loaded with great ingredients and has wonderful texture– crisp on the very edges and soft in the middle.  Now that’s what I’m talking about.  My husband declared this the best cookie he’s ever eaten.  So, that’s something, right?!  I hope you enjoy these little morsels as much as I have!

The Recipe:  Chocolate Chip, Walnut, and Oatmeal Cookies with Browned Butter and Coconut Oil

(Makes 24-26 cookies)

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup virgin coconut oil

1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) butter, browned

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup (5 ounces) whole wheat flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 cup rolled oats

1 cup chocolate chips (Ghirardelli 60 % cacao chips are my favorite)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

Preheat oven to 350°F.  Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small saucepan over medium heat add the butter.  Stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, cook the butter until it becomes a beautiful medium colored brown, just a few minutes.   Too little will not have enough flavor, and too much will taste burnt.  It will smell fragrant and somewhat caramel-like.  Remove from heat and pour into a bowl to cool for at least 10 minutes.

In a small sauté  pan over medium heat add the walnuts.  Stirring frequently, toast them until they become fragrant, just a few minutes.  Keep a watchful eye, as they can burn quickly.  Remove from heat and pour onto a plate to cool for 5 minutes.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.  Set aside.

In a bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (a hand mixer or bowl and wooden spoon can also be used), add the coconut oil, browned butter (brown bits, too), and brown sugar.  Cream the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes.  Mix the beaten egg and vanilla together and pour that into the bowl.  Continue to cream for about 3-4 more minutes, or until the mixture has gained a little volume and has become pale in color (Note: it won’t have as much volume as cookies with room temperature butter). Add the flour mixture and mix until combined.  Turn the machine off and stir in the oats, chocolate chips and walnuts by hand.

Roll into balls by hand or use a small scoop.  Use a bit of pressure to make the mixture form a solid ball.  Bake cookies for 9-10 minutes, the edges should just be starting to turn golden brown.  Remove from oven and let cool on pan for a couple of minutes.  Remove from pan and place on a cooling rack.  The cookies will keep for a few days in an airtight container.  Enjoy!

Have a wonderful weekend, friends!  Be sure to check back next week — something exciting will be happening on Relishing It!

Laurie

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Chocolate Babka

Posted in Breakfast, Dessert, tagged , , , , , on March 5, 2012| 27 Comments »

I distinctly remember the first time I ate a piece of chocolate babka bread.  It floored me.  I had a hard time wrapping my brain around the fact that it looked so sweet– like a dessert bread– but instead had so much more flavorful depth.  Those simple swirls wrapped around chunks of bittersweet chocolate were amazing.  And though it wasn’t what I was expecting, I loved it.  I was hooked.  Since that first piece, I’ve ordered chocolate babka whenever I’ve had the opportunity.  Some have been amazing, while others just didn’t quite get it right.

For today’s recipe, I’ve found a babka that definitely gets it right.  Being able to make something at home that is just as good, if not better, than the versions I’ve tried elsewhere is one of the most satisfying things about cooking and baking.  And this babka ranks right up there with the best I’ve ever eaten.  The bread is moist and soft, and of course, not overly sweet.  I love the big chunks of chocolate and the subtle kiss of cinnamon that make every bite interesting.  In a word, it’s perfect.

This babka is not difficult to make, and I think the pictures should help you visualize each step.  As always, fancy equipment is not necessary.  Every step can be done by hand, though it’ll take a bit longer to mix and knead the dough.  The results are worth the little added effort.  This babka begs to be eaten while sipping a cup of coffee and chatting with a good friend.  I hope you make this one, you’ll be so happy you did!

The Recipe: Chocolate Babka

For the Bread:

2 1/4 teaspoons (one 1/4-ounce envelope) active dry yeast

1/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup warm milk (110 degrees)

1 large egg plus one large egg yolk

3 cups (15 ounces) all-purpose flour, plus more for surface

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter at room temperature, plus more for bowl and pan

1 large egg, lightly beaten with 1 tablespoon heavy cream, for egg wash

For the Filling:

8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped (1 1/4 cups)

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into small pieces

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Crumb Topping:

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

To make the bread: In a medium bowl, sprinkle the yeast and a pinch of sugar over the milk and let stand for about 5 minutes, or until foamy.  In another bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, the egg and the yolk.  Whisk into the yeast mixture.  In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the flour and kosher salt.  Add the egg mixture and mix on low speed until almost fully combined, about 30 seconds.  Switch to the dough-hook attachment, and add the butter.  Mix until smooth, soft, and slightly sticky, about 9-10 minutes.  Butter a large bowl.  Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead a few times until smooth.  Place in bowl and cover with plastic wrap.  Let stand in a warm place until doubled in size, roughly 1- 1 1/2 hours or longer (it will depend upon how warm your house is).

Meanwhile, make the chocolate filling.  In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate chunks, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.  Cut in the butter with a fork, pastry cutter, or my favorite way, your fingers, until combined.

Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down.  Place it on a flour work surface.  Let rest for 5 minutes and then roll it out into a 18-inch square.  Reserve a 1/2 cup of the filling and sprinkle the rest over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.  Brush the edges with the egg wash.  Tightly roll the dough from one end to the other, like a jelly roll.  Pinch the seam to seal.  Fold in half and form a “U” shape.  Twist 2 or 3 times to “braid”.  Make sure to pinch the ends of braid together, as well.  Butter a 5-by-10-inch loaf pan, line with parchment, leaving 1-inch overhangs; then butter the parchment paper.  Place the dough in the pan and brush with egg wash.

To make the crumb topping, in a small bowl combine the confectioners’ sugar, flour, and butter.  Mix with your finger until large, moist clumps form.  Sprinkle topping along with 1/2 cup reserved chocolate filling over the cake.  It’s ok if it falls down the sides of the cake, it will bake up beautifully.

Preheat oven to 350°F.  Drape plastic wrap over the dough.  Let rise in a warm place until risen by half, about 30 minutes.

Place bread pan on a cookie sheet, in case any of the topping tumbles off while baking.  Place in the oven (center rack).  Bake rotating halfway through, until golden, about 55 minutes.  Reduce oven temperature to 325°F.  Bake until deeply golden, about 15-20 minutes more (cover with foil if top gets too dark).  Transfer pan to wire rack to cool completely before removing from pan.  Bread can be stored in an airtight container (with plastic wrap placed on cut ends) for about 3 days.

Source:  Adapted from Martha Stewart Living, 2011

Thanks for stopping by Relishing It.  I’d love to hear about some of the foods you’ve been relishing in your life lately!

Laurie

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Lemon Pull-Apart Bread

Posted in Breakfast, Dessert, tagged , , , , , on February 21, 2012| 7 Comments »

Ah yes, lemon season…  It’s that one bright seasonal food that falls just when I need it the most–right in the middle of Winter.  The lemons are sublime right now.  Obviously I love to bake with these beauties.  This tart  and these bars always make me weak in the knees. And this delicious yogurt cake  is one of the best desserts I’ve ever made.  But don’t stop at baking.  Remember to preserve a batch of lemons to use in savory dishes as well.  With lemons around, the dull gray of late February just seems a little less oppresive.

This fantastic pull-apart bread is another mouth-watering way to bring that lemon-y zing into your baking.  And how good is this bread?  It knocked our socks off!  My family was wowed by this one– we inhaled it in one day.  It really is that good.  I mean, it’s so good that you’ll want to invite friends over to share so they can ”ooooo…”  and “ahhh…” at your masterpiece.

Don’t be intimidated by the recipe’s length– it’s not difficult.  The photos here show you how to cut the dough, which seemed to be the most confusing part of the original directions.  Just remember the goal– make a dough, let it rise, roll it into a large rectangle, top with lemon/sugar mixture, cut into 30 small, equal rectangles, stack in a bread pan, let rise, and bake.  That’s it.  The cutting measurements don’t have to be perfect, so slight variations in shape are just fine.  The key is to make sure you bake it long enough.  Otherwise, the center may not be done, which will ruin your bread.  If you make the dough and store it in the refrigerator, you’ll find it really shortens the wait if you plan on making it for breakfast.  Enjoy!

 

The Recipe: Lemon Pull-Apart Bread

(Makes one loaf)

For the Dough:

2 3/4 cups (12 1/4 ounces) all-purpose flour

1/4 cup (1 3/4 ounces) granulated sugar

2 1/4 teaspoons (1 envelope) instant yeast

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/3 cup (2 1/2 ounces) whole milk

2 ounces (4 tablespoons), unsalted butter

1/4 cup water

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs, at room temperature

For the Lemon Paste Filling:

1/2 cup (3 1/2 ounces) granulated sugar

4 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest (4 lemons)

2 ounces unsalted butter (4 tablespoons), melted

For the Icing:

3 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/3 cup (1 1/4 ounce) confectioners’ sugar

About 2 tablespoons lemon juice

I recommend  making the dough and refrigerating the night before.  The dough is remarkably easy to handle this way.  To make the dough, mix together 2 cups (9 ounces) flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer.  In a small sauce pan, heat the butter and milk until it is entirely melted.  Remove from heat and add the water and vanilla.  Set aside until the temperature drops to  120°F – 130°F.

Pour the milk mixture over the flour mixture and stir with a spoon until moistened.  Attach bowl to mixer and using the paddle attachment, begin to add the eggs one at a time while the mixer is on low.  Mix until just incorporated after each egg.  Stop the mixer and add 1/2 cup of the remaining flour, and continue to mix on low until the dough is smooth, 30-45 seconds.  Add 2 more tablespoons of flour and mix on medium speed until the dough is smooth, soft, and slightly sticky, about 45 seconds.

Sprinkle work surface with 1 tablespoon of flour, knead dough by hand for about 1 minute, or until no longer sticky.  1-2 tablespoons of flour can be added, if needed.  Butter a large bowl and place dough in it and cover with plastic wrap.  Let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.  Gently deflate the dough.  At this point, either refrigerate the well-covered dough overnight or proceed onto the next step.

Meanwhile, while dough is rising, make the lemon filling.  In a small bowl, add the sugar and lemon zest.  Using a spoon or your hand, mix together until it forms a sandy mixture.

Center a rack in the center of an oven pre-heated to 350°F.  Butter a 9 x 5 – inch loaf pan, line the bottom with parchment paper, and butter again.  Set aside.

On a lightly floured work surface roll the dough out to a 20 x 12 – inch rectangle.  Use a pastry brush (or smear with your hands) to distribute the melted butter onto the dough.  Sprinkle the lemon/sugar mixture evenly over the melted butter.  Give the mixture a gentle pat so that it sticks well.  Using a pizza cutter, cut the dough crosswise into 5 equal strips (each about 12 x 4 – inches).  Carefully stack all 5 strips of dough.  Again using the pizza cutter, cut the stack into 6 equal sections (each about 4 x 2 -inches).

Carefully place all of the stacks, widthwise, into the prepared bread pan.  Make sure the dough pieces are close/snug with each other.  There will be extra room at the end of the pan and that’s good.  The dough will rise and fill that space in.  Loosely cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 30-50 minutes, or a bit longer if the dough was refrigerated.

Bake the bread until the top is a beautiful golden brown and an instant read thermometer inserted into the center of the bread reads about 200°F, about 35 minutes.  If the bread seems to be browning too quickly and the inside is not yet done, place some aluminum foil over the bread while it continues to bake.  Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely in pan, or else the bread will fall apart.

Gently run knife around the edges of the pan and carefully invert cooled bread into your hand, then place on a plate.  Using a wooden spoon or whisk, mix the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and lemon juice together — using more or less lemon juice depending upon your desired consistency.  Drizzle over the bread.  Stores well in an airtight container.  Enjoy!

Adapted from Flo Braker’s Baking for All Occasions via Leite’s Culinaria

Thanks for stopping by!

Laurie

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Chocolate Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Meringue Buttercream

Posted in Dessert, tagged , , , on February 9, 2012| 14 Comments »

Where to begin?  My goodness, I love these babies!  I had been craving a proper chocolate cupcake with a salted caramel frosting for a long time.  I knew where I could probably buy one, but sometimes I get a little ticked at the steep price tag for just a “bite” of cake– especially when my kids beg for (and usually get) them every week.  I got to thinking, and decided to try to make them myself.  I combined several recipes, and came up with cupcakes that are even better than I imagined.

I used my favorite chocolate cupcake recipe, but made it with coconut oil.  The cake is moist and dense.  I’ve become addicted to coconut oil lately (I’ve even made a coconut oil body butter–but more on that another time).  These cupcakes have a nice, subtle coconut flavor that blends perfectly with the chocolate and caramel.  Now my goal was to use a healthier fat– which worked– though I’m not sure the ‘healthiness’ mattered, since I piled a mound of buttercream on top.  Oh well, they are cupcakes, after all.

Now, let’s talk about the salted caramel.  Salt and caramel are such a heavenly combination.  So perfect.  You will not use all of the caramel, which is a good thing.  Just keep it in your refrigerator, and use later poured over ice cream.  Or drizzle it over a brownie.  Or just enjoy it by the spoonful (or maybe that’s just me).

And you know that deliciously thick and rich frosting that makes those specialty shop cupcakes so good?  Yeah, that’s this stuff.  It not just a buttercream, it’s meringue buttercream.   Big difference.  This one uses egg whites, but don’t worry, they’re perfectly safe because they’ve been carefully cooked.  They whip up beautifully and become a silky treasure when mixed with the butter.  Add that liquid gold salted caramel, and you’ve just made one of the most delicious frostings possible.

The Recipe: Chocolate Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Meringue Buttercream

(Makes 16-18 frosted cupcakes)

Salted Caramel:

1 cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons light corn syrup

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 1/4 teaspoon fleur de del (regular sea salt or even kosher will also work)

1/4 cup sour cream

To make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and corn syrup along with 1/4 cup water.   Gently stir them together, being careful not to splash the sides of the pan.  Cook over high heat until an instant-read thermometer reads 350°F, or until the mixture is a dark amber in color, about 6-8 minutes.  Keep a watchful eye on it, as it can turn from a golden amber color to burnt very quickly.  Remove from heat and slowly add the cream (be careful, it will bubble), and then add the fleur de sel.  Whisk in the sour cream.  Set aside to cool to room temperature.  Or refrigerate if making ahead of time, then bring to room temperature before mixing into the buttercream.

Chocolate Cupcakes:

1/2 cup natural unsweetened cocoa powder

2 ounces high-quality semi-sweet chocolate (60% cacao works great), chopped

1/2 cup strong, very hot coffee

1/2 cup sour cream

1 cup unbleached cake flour

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

2/3 cup (packed) dark brown sugar

1/2 cup virgin coconut oil

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 For the Cupcakes: Preheat oven to 350°F.  Line 16-18 standard (1/3 cup) muffin cups with paper liners.  Combine cocoa powder and chocolate in medium bowl.  Pour 1/2 cup hot coffee over; whisk until smooth.  Whisk in sour cream.
Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt in another medium bowl to blend.  Using a stand mixer, beat brown sugar, coconut oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla in large bowl until light and creamy, about 2 minutes.  Beat in flour mixture, alternating with chocolate mixture in 2 additions. Careful not to over-mix.  Divide batter among paper liners.

Bake until tester inserted into center comes out with some crumbs attached, about 16-18 minutes.  Cool in pans for about 10 minutes.  Transfer cupcakes to cooling racks and cool completely.

Salted Caramel Meringue Buttercream:

4 large (1/2 cup) egg whites

1 cup sugar

pinch of kosher salt

3/4 pound (3 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature, cut into 1-inch chunks

1/3 cup salted caramel

To make the meringue buttercream:  Put the egg whites, sugar and salt into a medium-sized heatproof mixing bowl over a pan of simmering water, and whisk gently and continuously until the egg whites reach 140°F.  The eggs whites will be hot and the sugar will be dissolved, about 3-4 minutes.

Remove from the heat and pour into a bowl of a very clean stand mixer.   Using the whip attachment, whip mixture on high until thick and cooled, about 5 minutes.  (Make sure the meringue is cooled to room temperature before adding the butter, or  the butter will melt and will not make a proper frosting).  With the mixer running, slowly add the butter to the meringue, one chunk at a time.  Beat until the buttercream is smooth and spreadable, scraping down the sides of the bowl, as needed.  With the machine still running, slowly add the salted caramel and beat until well blended, about 2 minutes.

Troubleshooting:  If for some reason your buttercream is too soft (perhaps your meringue wasn’t cooled enough), stir the buttercream over ice water; then beat with a machine until smooth and spreadable.  Sometimes buttercream separates – it will look like scrambled eggs.  If this happens, briefly immerse the bottom of the mixing bowl into some hot tap water, then beat again until the buttercream is smooth and spreadable.

To Assemble the Cupcakes:

After the caramel and cupcakes have cooled to room temperature, using a small knife carefully cut out a 1/2-inch circle midway down in the center of the cupcakes.  Fill the hole with the salted caramel just to the surface.  Place the salted caramel meringue buttercream into a large pastry bag and top each cupcake with a swirl of it — be generous!   Frosted cupcakes should be eaten as soon as possible, but will hold their shape for a couple hours.  Unfrosted cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.  Leftover caramel should be treated as gold, because it is that delicious.  Store in jar and refrigerate — it makes a wonderful topping for ice cream.  Enjoy!

Sources:  Chocolate Cupcakes adapted from this recipe.  Salted Caramel adapted from Baked Explorations.  Meringue Buttercream adapted from How to Bake.

Thanks for stopping by Relishing It today — hope you enjoy these cupcakes!

Laurie

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Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Posted in Dessert, tagged , , , , , on February 7, 2012| 4 Comments »

My kids love to help me make holiday cookies.  We smear them with frosting (which must be tasted, over and over as we work), and decorate them with a hodgepodge of sprinkles.  And yes, the kids get to help with everything.  It’s worth it, even if the process takes a bit longer.  The kitchen counter ends up covered with frosting, and the floor is dusted with sprinkles that hide and reappear for days.

If you have children, you know how important it is to have a go-to sugar cookie recipe for the kids to cut out and decorate.  Heck, as far as I’m concerned, even if you don’t have kids you should have a great sugar cookie recipe.  I’ve tried so many different versions, and after years of testing have decided that this one is my favorite.  It’s quick, reliable, and most importantly it’s very, very good.

These sugar cookies are just what I like– crisp around the edges and soft in the middle.  They have a rich buttery flavor, and the frosting is soft and perfect.  Even better, these cookies are simple to make.  So there is no reason to settle for that pre-made cookie dough with the funky aftertaste from the supermarket.  Make these.  You’ll be happy you did.

The Recipe: Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

(Makes about 2 dozen cookies, though it depends on the size of your cookie cutter)

1 cup (2 sticks/228 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature

1 1/2 cups (300 grams) granulated sugar

2 eggs, at room temperature

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

3 cups (420 grams) unbleached all-purpose flour

2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Frosting

About 3 1/4 cups (1 pound/ 454 grams) confectioners’ sugar

About 3 tablespoons milk, more if necessary

4 ounces softened cream cheese

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy.  Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl a couple of times.  Beat in the eggs and vanilla on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, or until thoroughly combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl, once again.

In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.  On low speed, slowly blend the flour mixture into the butter-sugar mixture.  Mix until evenly incorporated.

Place the dough onto a sheet of plastic wrap and form into a disk shape, about 8-inches in diameter and 1-inch thick.  Wrap completely in plastic wrap.  Refrigerate for 1 hour, or until it is firm enough to roll out.  Dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in a freezer for up to 1 month.  If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then let sit at room temperature for 1 hour before using.

Position rack in the center of an oven, and heat to 350°F.  Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.

Lightly flour a work surface, place the dough on the surface and lightly flour the dough, as well as the rolling pin. Roll out dough to be about 1/4-inch thick.  Make sure to keep the work surface well-floured to prevent sticking.  Use a cookie cutter and cut out as many cookies as possible.  Place them on the lined cookie sheet with a normal amount of space between them.  Gather scraps and reroll; continue until all of the dough is gone.

Bake cookies for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown on the edges and pale to light brown in the centers.  The baking time may be shorter or longer depending upon the size of your cookies.  Keep a watchful eye.  Let them cool on the pan for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

To make the frosting, using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese for a couple of minutes until soft and smooth.  Add the confectioners sugar and milk.  Mix until well incorporated.  Add a bit more milk, if necessary.  You will want the frosting to be somewhat thick, or else it will slide off of the cookies.  Mistakes can easily corrected by adding more confectioners’ sugar or milk.  Frost the cookies and sprinkle with decorations.  Let set for a few minutes before serving.  The cookies keep well in an airtight container for about 4 days.  Enjoy!

Source:  Adapted from Joanne Chang’s Flour Cookbook

Thanks for stopping by Relishing It today!

Laurie

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Orange and Olive Oil Cake

Posted in Dessert, tagged , , , on January 31, 2012| 14 Comments »

Pretty much every time I walked into my Grandma Jesch’s home as a child, there was a newly-baked cake waiting for me.  And I stopped by to visit at least every other day.  I guess that’s likely the source of my infatuation with cake.  I love them.  I love every kind of cake.  I love big decadent cakes with billowing frosting.  And tarts loaded with pastry cream and topped with ripe summer berries, make me swoon.  But sometimes…sometimes I want a simple cake.  A snacking cake.  Like the ones my Grandma Jesch made.

This orange and olive oil cake is the perfect snacking cake.  It’s interesting and delicious, without being too glamorous.  The olive oil lets you know it’s in there, though it’s subtle.  It adds a slightly floral flavor that works wonderfully with the brightness of the orange zest.  The cake stays moist with the help of the olive oil and the yogurt; and in my experience, it’s better after sitting for a few hours or even overnight.  Be warned though, the modesty of this cake may deceive you.  Since it doesn’t have the pomp of a fancy chocolate layer cake, you won’t think of it as dessert.  Your guard will be down.  You’ll wander into the kitchen several times over the course of the afternoon, and suddenly, half of the cake will be gone.  Not that that happened to me.  And I certainly wouldn’t tell you if it did…

The Recipe:  Orange and Olive Oil Cake

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon kosher salt

4 large eggs, separated

2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup plain yogurt

3/4 cup good-quality extra-virgin olive oil  (preferably something fruity, if possible)

zest of 3 oranges

1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Preheat the oven to 350°F.  Place rack in the center of oven.  Generously spray the inside of a 10-inch Bundt pan with a nonstick cooking spray; or butter it well, flour it, and tap out any excess.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.  Set aside.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the egg yolks until they are pale and light; slowly pour in the sugar until it is completely incorporated.  Add the yogurt and olive oil and mix until thoroughly combined.  Add the orange zest and vanilla, mix until just incorporated.

Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in two parts, beating after each addition until just combined (it should only take 10 seconds).  Scrape down the bowl and beat again for 5 seconds.

In another large bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.  Scoop 1 cup of the egg whites into the batter.  Use a rubber spatula to gently fold them in.  After about 30 seconds of folding, add the remaining egg whites and gently fold until they are almost completely combined.  Do not rush this process.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40-50 minute, rotating the pan half way through the baking time, or bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.  Transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool for 10-15 minutes.  Gently loosen the sides of the cake from the pan (an offset spatula works well) and turn out onto a rack to cool completely.  Dust with confectioners’ sugar right before serving.  This cake stores well at room temperature for about 3 days in a tightly covered container.  Enjoy!

Source: Adapted from Baked Explorations

Thanks for stopping by today!

Laurie

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Perfect Chocolate Pudding

Posted in Dessert, tagged , , , on January 17, 2012| 14 Comments »

As a mother of two little ones, a few years back I embarked on a quest to find the perfect chocolate pudding recipe.  It started because my kids would see those plastic individually-sealed “pudding cups” while grocery shopping.  They begged and pleaded  until I just couldn’t take it anymore, so I broke down and bought them once in awhile.  The thing is, I knew that I could make something that tasted so much better and was less-heavily processed.  Let’s be honest, chocolate pudding isn’t exactly a health food, but I feel better knowing I have control over the ingredient list.  And it’s not like kids are going to stop begging for it.  This is the recipe that I found– and it’s marvelous.

This chocolate pudding is decadent.  It has a deep, rich, cocoa flavor.  So rich, in fact, that I’ve scaled back the amount of chocolate on occasion just to make sure it’s exactly what my kids are looking for.  You may want to do the same, though note that now I generally make it as listed in the recipe.  It’s a good thing Aanen and Aria inherited my out-of-control zeal for chocolate.  The texture is beautifully silky.  It’s substantial, though not overly heavy because it’s based on milk, rather than cream.  And it’s not just for the kids.  This pudding’s flavor is profound enough to make it a versatile all-around dessert.  It’s perfect for a lovely weeknight, or even a more upscale weekend dinner party.

 

Whatever occassion you decide to make it for, know that in my opinion it’s much better served cold.  My kids– quite clearly– agree.  As you can imagine, our evenings get rushed from time to time.  On a few of those occasions, we grew impatient waiting for the pudding to cool.  I served it warm, and it went…nowhere.  I know, I know.  Some of you probably like warm pudding.  But if you know your family prefers it cold, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to allow it to chill.

The Recipe: Perfect Chocolate Pudding

(Makes about 6 ramekins)

1/4 cup cornstarch

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

3 cups whole milk

6 ounces good quality semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine the cornstarch, sugar, and salt, in the top of a double boiler.  Slowly whisk in the milk making sure to incorporate all of the dry ingredients.  Place over gently simmering water, stirring occasionally and scraping down the bottom and sides.  Use a whisk, if any lumps should begin to form.  After 15 to 20 minutes, when the mixture should begin to thicken and coat the back of a wooden spoon, add the chocolate.  Continue to stir until the pudding is smooth and thick, about 2-4 minutes.  Remove from heat and add the vanilla.

Strain through a fine mesh strainer.  Or skip this step if you feel that it is smooth enough to your liking.  Ladle pudding into individual ramekins and place plastic wrap against the surface.  Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though the longer the better, in my opinion.  Skip the plastic wrap, if you prefer to have “skin” on the top of  your pudding.  Serve with freshly whipped cream and a big ol’ smile!  Enjoy.

Source: Adapted from the Smitten Kitchen

Thanks for dropping by today!

Laurie

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Double-Dark Chocolate Thumbprints

Posted in Dessert, tagged , , , on December 21, 2011| 6 Comments »

I intended to get this to-die-for cookie recipe to you earlier this week, but I’ve been (more than) a bit under the weather with a cold.  In any case, you still have a time to whip out a batch of these little treats.  Trust me here– they will not be passed over on the cookie platter.  The inspiration for these double-dark chocolate thumbprint cookies is chocolate mousse.  Is there anything better than chocolate mousse?  Anything?  I’ve tried to capture how light and airy they are in this picture of the batter.

The cookies crisp-up around the edges, yet stay soft and tender in the middle.  They’re almost like biting into a little pillow of chocolate.  And of course I’m a sucker for ganache, so these little gems are right in my wheel house.  My family and friends love these cookies, and I think you will too.

I’ll be on the road for the next few days, since we’re packing up the presents and the kids and traveling back to North Dakota to be with our families for the holidays.  I’m so excited!  Even the prospect of facing a nine-hour drive each way with a three and five-year-old can’t dampen my spirit– at least not yet.  The weather looks good, with no blizzards in the forecast.  Fingers crossed.   Happy holidays to all of you!

The Recipe:  Double-Dark Chocolate Thumbprints

(Yields about 2 1/2 dozen)

For the cookies:

6 ounces (1 1/2 cups) unbleached all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

4 ounces (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened

1 1/3 cups granulated sugar

1 1/2 ounces (1/2 cup) natural, unsweetened cocoa powder

3 large eggs, room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, melted and cooled slightly

Sea salt, for sprinkling

For the chocolate filling:

3 ounces bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped, (1/2 cup)

2 ounces (4 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into 3 pieces

Position rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F.  Line cookie sheet with parchment paper.  In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.  Set aside.

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, sugar, and cocoa powder on medium speed until well blended, about 2 minutes.  Scrape down the sides of the bowl.  Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until blended after each addition, about 30 seconds, add the vanilla along with the last egg.  Continue mixing on medium speed until well blended, about 1 minute.  Add the cooled, melted chocolate and mix until just blended, about 30 seconds.  Add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until well blended, about 1 minute.

Using a mini-scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared cookie sheet.  Do not flatten.  Bake until the cookies are puffed and the tops are cracked and look dry, 10-11 minutes.  Remove from oven and immediately make a small, deep well in the center of each of them using the end of a thick handled spoon or the back of a measuring spoon.  Sprinkle with sea salt while they are warm.  Let sit on cookie sheet for a couple of minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Meanwhile,  melt the chocolate and butter in the microwave.  Stir every 20 seconds until melted and smooth.  Let cool and thicken a bit.

When cookies are somewhat cool, fill them with the chocolate filling using a teaspoon.  If the filling becomes too thick, just microwave it for a few seconds longer.  The chocolate will completely set in the cookies within an hour.  They keep well in an airtight container for days.  Enjoy!

Source:  Adapted from Fine Cooking Dec/Jan 2011

Thanks for stopping by Relishing It today!  I hope you all have a wonderful holiday filled with much happiness.  See you next week.

Laurie

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