Category Archives: Traditional with a Twist

Buttermilk Rosewater Cupcakes

When I recently came across candied rose berries at a favorite market of mine, I couldn’t help but stop in my tracks.  The pastel pink beads sparkled with sweetness, and their scent was alluringly delicate and floral.  Immediately inspired, I … Continue reading

Posted in Baking with Flowers, Cakes & Cupcakes, Sweets, Traditional with a Twist | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 38 Comments

Orange Cardamom Cookies

While planning my annual holiday baking menu several years ago, I found myself pondering the exquisite versatility of cardamom: an ingredient I’d tasted as it splendidly sang in both savory and sweet treats alike.  Before I knew it, I added … Continue reading

Posted in Cookies & Bars, Sweets, Traditional with a Twist | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 21 Comments

Festive Striped Meringues: An Easy, Delicious Gift

I admit it: I’ve been known to squeal and even get teary-eyed when making these meringues.  What can I say?  They’re just so pretty coming out of the pastry bag.  And after you’ve whipped them up and piped them onto … Continue reading

Posted in Cookies & Bars, Sweets, Traditional with a Twist | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 8 Comments

Cranberry Quince Skillet Tart with Orange and Sweet Almond

I’ve come to think of quince as a sort of magical fruit.  It starts out fuzzy like a peach, growing on a fragrant plant that’s apparently also cultivated for its flowers.  A bowl of quince sitting on your counter will … Continue reading

Posted in Pies, Tarts, Tortes & Cheesecakes, Sweets, Traditional with a Twist | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

Cut-Out Turkeys: Hazelnut Brown Sugar Cookies

There’s something funny about decorating with turkeys for Thanksgiving, if you ask me.  For one, they’re generally not too cute; plus, their very carcasses are the center of the momentous meal.  But for some reason, I bought a turkey cookie … Continue reading

Posted in Cookies & Bars, Sweets, Traditional with a Twist | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments