Happy Holiday Greeting 2011

Child-like scenes and reflection can hopefully bring this holiday into perspective.

Are you feeling happy, contemplative or just overwhelmed with the holidays?

During this special time of year, much is celebrated as well as questioned profoundly.

Many interpretations are experienced during our tumultuous global complexity.

Some amongst us are living through difficult times and unfortunately can’t imagine the next day.

Whether, these facets are touching you directly or not...

we are, it seems, somewhat more attentive to the less fortunate.

For some of us, it has become a fabulous way of re-thinking the holiday spirit.

Doing things differently and sharing quality time with each other is precious.

Time spent with loved ones decorating the tree could be enough for some.

Tears of joy can also be experienced by a fun, challenging project.

Building a gingerbread house can unite a village in no time.

Doing an act of goodness for strangers and having them looking at you with a surprise.

This can truly become more than any material gift could possibly offer.

The very simple things really do manage to put a smile on our faces.

No matter what background we're from...that's what really can unite us.

With this thought...

let’s all take a moment and appreciate all the symbolic gifts sent our way.

Looking forward to sharing more with you in the New Year.

I wish for you to cherish all that is good and conveniently toss the unpleasant ;o)

All the very best and Happy Holidays everyone.

Claudia

Comments? ... Write me :o)
foodessa [at] gmail [dot] com

Yule Log - Bûche de Noël - CHOCOLATE cake - CARAMEL- COFFEE custard CHOCO - MAPLE SYRUP topping

My contribution to our traditional Christmas feast is with a 'Yule log' gone rogue.

One bite will make you realize why dessert should be eaten first ;o)

While a ceremonial 'Yule log' is burning in the hearth of the fireplace...

I'm usually busy working on my edible version of this symbolic log.

In European cultures, this 'Yule log' cake {Bûche de Noël} is usually...

the dessert which takes center stage and it's no different at our sweets table.

Originally, the 'Yule log' was part of a the twelve days of Christmas ceremony.  

I'm not saying this is what takes place in my home...

however, making this cake has become somewhat of a ritual.

Whether, this moment is taking place or not as part of your Christmas celebrations...
there's no reason not to enjoy making this representative log cake.

I start the log on Christmas Eve and decorate it the morning of our mid day feast.

If you have not made a Christmas log before because you felt intimidated...

kindly follow my transformed log towards one very appreciated dessert.  

Every ingredient in this cake is delicious, however, most of the raving is about how light and fluffy the whipped cream topping is.   

No element of this cake is heavy.  
This is the best part after having had a substantial Christmas feast.

Since I do usually break up the tasks within two days, no matter what craziness is going on, it ensures to keep my Christmas spirit in tact . This mood shines through when I garnish and finish the decoration of the log.  I go back to being a child again.  This for me was always better than playing with toys.

Every year, although the basics have remained steady...

the decor does somewhat change ;o)  

Here, cigar cookies were rounded up and gently nudged onto the cake's frosting.

A decorative ribbon was not only the perfect finishing touch...

it certainly made sure those cookies held it together ;o)

No worry, once the cake is set...

even when the ribbon was peeled off...the cookies didn't fall down before slicing into it.

In the past, this cake had become more decoratively intricate...

and at times I just wanted the frosting to take center stage.

The other thing I did was to somewhat break the cycle of what the log was going to look like.  

Yes, with all the other baking going on...

I figured a long time ago, that it was acceptable to re-route the rolled cake.   

Hence, the rectangular layers slathered with decadent custard cream.

This was to become our version of the 'Yule tide' log.  

Who knows, maybe one year I'll go back to rolling...

but for now, here's how I went rogue ;o)

Here's my version of a...

'Yule log' cake {Bûche de Noël}

CHOCOLATE cake

... layered in CARAMEL - COFFEE custard cream and ...

topped with CHOCOLATE - MAPLE SYRUP whipped cream

serves: 8-10 slices

The CHOCOLATE cake

The day before...bake this cake and let it rest before dressing it.
Choose your favourite chocolate cake recipe, or try one of mine.

This cake had originated from the very easy Hershey Cocoa hot water cake  and slightly modified through the years.

Click HERE for PRINTER version

CHOCOLATE cake

INGREDIENTS:

(American / Metric measures)

...Dry:

. 1-3/4 cups (262g) All purpose flour 
. 1 tsps. (5ml) baking powder
. 2 tsps. (10ml) baking soda  
. 1/2 tsp. (2.5ml) salt 
. 1-1/2 cups (315g) granulated sugar 
. 1/2 cup (110g) brown sugar, packed
. 3/4 cup (75g) Dutch-processed Cocoa powder

...Liquids:

. 2 large eggs

. 1 cup (250ml) Buttermilk *

. 1/2 cup (125ml) regular Olive oil

. 2 tsps. (10ml) pure Vanilla extract

. 1 cup (250ml) warm, water, boiled

* Buttermilk (homemade): Sour the milk by using 1 tbsp. (15ml) white vinegar (or lemon juice) plus milk to equal 1 cup (250ml).  Let it rest for 10 minutes to coagulate.

PREPARATION:

Pre-heat oven at 350F/180C/Gas4

Position oven rack in the center of the oven.

I use a (5x12inch/13x30cm) cake loaf pan with a light metal finish: 

Baked for 60 minutes.  The rectangular log will have be divided in three separate layers.

OR...use a (9x13 inch/23x33cm) shallow baking pan and bake for 30 min. (dark pan) and 35 min. (lighter pan).
Divide the length part and separate each in two layers.  Pile the 4 layers with the cream filling.

Oil and flour the baking pan.  Shake off the excess flour.  Set aside.

1. Boil water and whisk it into the Cocoa powder.  Set it aside until the mixture has completely cooled.  Note: this step is important, otherwise the cake may bake heavy and dry.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the first 5 dry ingredients.  
3. Make a well in the center to then pour the next 4 liquid ingredients.  Lastly, add in the Cocoa mixture.
4. From the center outwards, beat the mix for about 2 minutes on medium speed with the electric mixer.  This batter will seem quite thin...don’t worry.
5. Pour the cake batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes.  Once removed from the oven, wait 15 minutes before prying the cake from the edges with a sharp spatula.   Afterwards, remove and flip it over on a wire rack.   Cool another 30 minutes before setting it on the serving platter.
6. Note: Remember, the cake needs a good resting period before cutting its layers.  I cover the cake lightly with a tea cloth and let it rest for several hours or overnight.
7. Afterwards...go ahead and follow the directions for the filling and garnish mentioned below.

***

Use any FILLING that pleases you.  

As for myself...it changes slightly every year.

For several more flavour additions...refer to my last post on CUSTARDS.

Tip: If short on time...use your favourite (cooked) pudding mix:

(i.e.: butterscotch caramel, chocolate or other).

Click HERE for PRINTER version

Caramel - Coffee custard pastry cream 

(to prepare ahead...the day before is best)

Yields about 1-1/2 cups (375ml)

INGREDIENTS:

(American / Metric measures)

. 1 large egg
. 1/8 cup (28g) granulated sugar
. 2 tsps. (10 ml) instant coffee granules
. 1/4 cup (32g) All-purpose flour  
. 1 cup (250ml) milk (low fat+)
. 1/4 tsp. (1.75ml) pure Vanilla extract
. 1/4 cup (60ml) Caramel spread

PREPARATION:

1. In a small-medium saucepan, hand whisk the egg, sugar, coffee granules and flour all at once until a smooth paste has formed.

2. Add just a little quantity of milk and whisk to soften the thick paste.   Afterwards, continually whisk in the remaining milk until all is combined.  Note: this is one of the better ways to avoid getting curdles in the egg mix.   It will assure a smooth, lump-free cream every time.  It also avoids having to later strain it.

3. Over medium-high heat, start whisking the custard gently at first.  Once a very low simmering boil appears, a quicker whisking motion should take place.   As the mix starts rising slightly and lightly thickening, an evident ribbon trail will follow.  This is the indication that the cream is ready.   

4. Remove the pot from the heat.   Add the vanilla and caramel.  Whisk until combined.

5. Let the cream rest for about 15 minutes more while giving it a stir every so often.

6. Transfer the cream to a medium bowl and cover it with a plastic wrap touching the surface.  This will avoid a dry skin from forming.  When the cream has cooled at room temperature, transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours to set until cold and thickened.  This cream keeps well for 2-3 days.

***

Fluffy Whipped Cream TOPPING...
can be inspired with several aromatics.

Through the years, I've pretty much stuck to my family's favourite...CHOCOLATE.

This frosting is hands down the best combination to suit many palates.  

Not too sweet and full of flavour.  The light, fluffy texture will amaze you ;o)

Click HERE for PRINTER version

Chocolate Maple whipped cream:

yields 4 cups (1 Litre)

INGREDIENTS:

(American / Metric measures)

. 1/2 cup (50g) premium cocoa powder

. 1/4 cup (28g) granulated sugar

. 1/2 cup (65g) confectioner’s sugar

. 1/8 cup (25ml) pure Maple syrup
. 2 cups (500ml) whipping cream (35%)

Add-in AROMATIC selections (optional):

. EXTRACTS: Add 1 tbsp. (15ml) of either pure Almond, Lemon, Mint, Orange or Vanilla extracts for that extra flavour. 

. SPICES: Add 1 tsp. (5ml) of either ground cardamom, cinnamon or ginger to give it an extra aromatic kick.

Note: I worked out the proportions in order to turn out a balanced sweetness.  If your family's sweet tooth is more exigent than mine...add a little more granulated sugar.

PREPARATION:

1. In a medium bowl (preferably stainless steel) use a hand whisk to beat together the first 4 ingredients.  

2. Gradually add and whisk the whipping cream in order to avoid getting lumps.  

3. Cover with plastic wrap and place the bowl into the refrigerator for at least one hour up to overnight. before the next step of whipping the cream.        

4. Once properly chilled, use an electric beater on medium speed and beat the cream to a smooth, thicker consistency.  Make sure not to over beat the cream to the souring stage.

5. It can be used right away or refrigerated once more while you get other cake assembly parts ready.  Afterwards, spread and slather the complete cake with this whipped topping  ;o)

***

GARNISH and DECOR suggestions:

This is where you can let your creativity run wild...have some fun.

Filling options to be spread throughout the middle layers:

. splash of liquor (optional) onto the cake layers. 

Suggestions:  Grand Marnier, Drambuie, Kahlua etc...

. 1/2 cup (125ml) jam or marmalade of choice

Suggestions:  Apricot, Cherry, Orange, Peach etc...

. 1 cup (130g) roasted nuts, coarsely chopped.

Suggestions: Almonds, Hazelnuts, Pecans, Walnuts etc...

Garnish and Decorative options:

. slivered almonds, lightly toasted

. caramelized popcorn (to be added at the very end)

. cocoa powder sprinkle

...other possibilities used in past cakes:

. hazelnut chocolate cigar cookies (to be placed around the perimeter)

. cereal puffs: (millet or quinoa puffs as well as rice crispies)

. meringues made to look like mushrooms

. coconut flakes (lightly toasted)

. colorful candy sprinkle sparkles

. shards of chocolates 

. maraschino cherries

. mini-marshmallows

You can go any route you choose...

from the whimsical to simple elegance.  

Enjoy your inner child ;o)

Last suggestions:

Remember, when spreading the creams...it will leak over the edges...

no need to worry...it will all be covered with creamy smooth whipped cream topping.

Also...refrigerate so that all ingredients will achieve the perfect union.

Before serving, make sure to remove the cake about 1 hour beforehand.
The cake will be perfect for slicing and the whipped cream will still be intact and fresh.

Hope you enjoy making and devouring every morsel of this moist and scrumptious holiday cake.

Here's wishing you all great kitchen moments as well as...
happy trails towards meeting with family and friends.

All the very best to all and many flavourful Holiday wishes,

Foodessa

Comments or suggestions ... write me :o)

Claudia at:  foodessa [at] gmail [dot] com

Go HERE for more SWEET creations.

Please take note on how I bake and cook...

Here’s a 101 of sorts to make sure that there are no disappointments when trying my creations.  

Also...just so you know...feel free to increase the salt and sweet factor since I'm not high on either of them ;o)

. Use DRY cup measurements for...you guessed it...all DRY ingredients.

Anything DRY gets measured by spooning the overfilled ingredient (never shake the cup) and then level off with a flat edged tool.  Exception...Brown sugar should be packed in and leveled.

. Use LIQUID cup measurements for...all LIQUIDS that cannot be leveled like for example butter, yogurt...etc.  Measure the liquids at eye level to avoid overdoing what the recipe truly needs.

. OVENS are unfortunately not created equal.  Mine is so old that it has reached many degrees off it's norm.  It's really worth investing a few dollars to test yours with an appropriate oven thermometer.  You'd be surprised how many ovens I've heard about not being where they should have been.  Before you lose any more ingredients and much time preparing a new recipe...run to the store...you'll thank me later. 

Other related CAKES inspired by special occasions:
- cake ELEGANCE and WHIMSY
- TiraMiSù Galliano LEMON special
- Fruit Melody velvety-smooth CHEESECAKE
- TiraMiSù ExtraOrdinario (chilled cake) - (a classic with a unique twist)

Happy Holiday Greeting Gallery

Our extended yearly Holiday Jaunt.

Hysteric, Chaotic or just Happy times?!?

Here’s a little glimpse into my blissful craziness.

 

Our model puppy, ‘Sushi’ keeps things real and into perspective for us.

Strangely enough, it’s in big part because of him...
that we appreciate the important essence of life.

 

Sparkles and colors started nudging me...

into the Holiday spirit at the start of November!

Are we finally content that gift shopping is finally over?

I don't know about any of you...but I'm pooped!

A jingle bell tune...

a little begging...

and a bribing treat gets you...

a hesitant pose at the very least ;o)

Just a few days before the family...

has the run of the household...

a festive ' tête a tête ' with Mommy was enjoyed.

Are we done with that camera yet???

***

Last healthy...non-traditional Holiday meal...
just a few days before the Italian festive meal arrives.

Are we finally in the...

Christmas Holiday spirit anyone?

To my family, friends, and endearing loyal foodie supporters...

I wish to send you warm blessings and the very best wishes going forward.

My dearest Hubby and I will be taking a...
mini-break for the next week or so.

We definitely look forward to enjoying your company once more in the new year ahead.

Big hug and flavourful wishes,

Foodessa

Comments ... ??? ... or suggestions ... write me :o)

Claudia at: foodessa [at] gmail [dot] com

 

TOP 10 MOTHERs Day DESSERT recipes

Top 10 homemade

MOTHER's Day DESSERT recipes.

source:dessertninja...flickr.com

Is it too soon to think of MOM on what most

consider the day that mothers should be celebrated?

Well, it's not too soon at all...
especially, if you're grasping empty for ideas.
Personally, I'll admit...I do not particularly celebrate my Mommy on this selected day.

Why, may you ask???

I have a very special relationship with my Mom...

whereby I decided a long time ago...

that she deserves me spoiling her throughout the year.

I do realize this will fall very unpopular for most...

however, I would feel absolutely hypocritical for not disclosing

my true feelings on the matter of when a MOM should be celebrated.

source: fotobank.com

Unlike our religious celebrations...

I do not particularly take fancy to ' societal dictatorship '

on when and how I should celebrate loved ones.

Yes, I know...there I go being my ' distinctive ' self again.
However...fortunately for my friendly foodies...this could not stop

me from appreciating others that think differently than I do.

Therefore, today I will help you with your celebration to come.

If for those like myself would like to treat

Mom one of these special desserts as a gift...
go ahead and surprise her with any of these

choices at any other time of the year also.

source: Bakery_eww.josefsvienna.com

I have once again selected from a multitude of increasingly

inspiring FOOD RELATED personal blogs and other major recipe sites.

With just a few ...

INGREDIENTS - FLAVOURS - CREATIVITY

...you'll have a wonderful homemade gift or dessert from the HEART.

source: divinepartyconcepts.com

Whether you decide to make your presentation...

'Zen-like', fun, elegant or whimsical...

your MOM will be blessed with your very special thoughtfulness.

The following desserts were randomly chosen from

searching among some of the very best FOOD RELATED sites .

They were truly delightful and inspiring.

Choose among the very easy to the little more challenging.

They are all worth taking a look at. 

source: mysweetandsaucy.com

Whether you have the chance to do these wonderful

desserts this year or in the next few years...

it's always nice to have something to reference to.

I have selected among some of the best appreciated recipes...

so go ahead and get yours too...while you can still get them 'gratuitously'.

As for myself...

I'll not only be using these as reference points...

I'll surely be using them as starting points as I

transform them in my very own personal way.

So, without further ado...here are your:

Top 10 homemade

MOTHER's day DESSERT recipes

If you have a chance to try them before I do...

please don't hesitate to share your results ;0)

BAKED GOODS:  ' Biscotti ' -- Bread -- Brownie -- Cake (Sorbet) -- Cookie -- Cupcake -- Muffin -- Pie

Mango-Strawberry Sorbet Torte loaf

(Level of difficulty: easy)

...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

BAKED GOODS: ' Biscotti ' -- Bread -- Brownie -- Cake -- Cookie -- Cupcake -- Muffin -- Pie

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Cake

(Level of difficulty: intermediate)

...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

BAKED GOODS: ' Biscotti ' -- Bread -- Brownie -- Cake -- Cookie -- Cupcake -- Muffin -- Pie

Carrot Ginger Layer Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting

(Level of difficulty: intermediate)

...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

BAKED GOODS: ' Biscotti ' -- Bread -- Brownie -- Cake -- Cookie -- Cupcake -- Muffin -- Pie

TEA POT cake

(Level of difficulty: Advanced)

...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

BAKED GOODS: ' Biscotti ' -- Bread -- Brownie -- Cake -- Cookie -- Cupcake -- Muffin -- Pie

TIRAMISU

(Level of difficulty: intermediate)

...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

BAKED GOODS:

' Biscotti ' -- Bread -- Brownie -- Cake -- Cookie -- Cupcake -- Muffin -- Pie

Ruffle Tower Cake

(Level of difficulty: intermediate)

...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

FROZEN Dessert: Cakes -- Cookies -- Cupcakes -- Pies

Frozen LEMON MOUSSE cupcakes
(Level of difficulty: easy)
Note: I made these...and they were crazy delicious.  However, I personally decided to go much lighter on the sugar quantity.  
...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

BAKED GOODS: Breads -- Brownies -- Cakes -- Cookies -- Cupcakes -- Muffins -- Pies
Lemon Cupcakes with Strawberry Frosting
(Level of difficulty: Very easy)
...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

BAKED GOODS: Breads -- Brownies -- Cakes -- Cookies -- Cupcakes -- Muffins -- Pies
Lemon Fairy Cakes with Lemon Candied Ginger Icing
(Level of difficulty: Easy) 
...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

BAKED GOODS: Breads -- Brownies -- Cakes -- Cookies -- Cupcakes -- Muffins -- Pies
Apple Cider Vinegar HONEY syrup Sponge Cupcakes
(Level of difficulty: intermediate)
...for more info on this RECIPE...click here

Once again...It’s already over.

Hopefully, there will be other top selections for us next year too.

Hope these...

Top 10 Mother's Day dessert ideas
has served to inspire you.

What homemade treat did you warmly receive this MOTHER's Day?
Or...better yet...
Did you make any of the above homemade desserts for your MOM?

Have you created a fantastic DESSERT lately?
Do you think someone else could benefit from your recipe and ideas?
Well, then, what are you waiting for...send it in...
and I'll share it with all our other 'Foodie Friends'.

May you be guided well by the

Motherly fairies in your kitchen.

Wishing all Moms a
HAPPY MOTHER's day...
everyday of the year.

Flavourful wishes,

Foodessa

Comments ... ??? ... or suggestions ... write me :o)

Claudia at: foodessa [at] gmail [dot] com

Go HERE for more SWEET creations.

Please take note on how I bake and cook...

Here’s a 101 of sorts to make sure that there are no disappointments when trying my creations.  

Also...just so you know...feel free to increase the salt and sweet factor since I'm not high on either of them ;o)

. Use DRY cup measurements for...you guessed it...all DRY ingredients.

Anything DRY gets measured by spooning the overfilled ingredient (never shake the cup) and then level off with a flat edged tool.  Exception...Brown sugar should be packed in and leveled.

. Use LIQUID cup measurements for...all LIQUIDS that cannot be leveled like for example butter, yogurt...etc.  Measure the liquids at eye level to avoid overdoing what the recipe truly needs.

. OVENS are unfortunately not created equal.  Mine is so old that it has reached many degrees off it's norm.  It's really worth investing a few dollars to test yours with an appropriate oven thermometer.  You'd be surprised how many ovens I've heard about not being where they should have been.  Before you lose any more ingredients and much time preparing a new recipe...run to the store...you'll thank me later.