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Raspberry Goat Cheese Tart
At a bakery I rarely can resist the raspberry filling and nutty crust of a linzer torte or the cookies inspired by this classic Austrian dessert. I use the term “dessert” loosely, of course, since linzer tortes are perfect for breakfast. Consider them an elevated jam on toast. With my predilection for dessert as breakfast, I used classic linzer torte flavors to create a cheesecake style tart that is perfect for any time of day. The vanilla bean flecked filling and almond crust are topped with lightly sweetened, macerated raspberries. Serve this tart after lunch or dinner, with afternoon coffee or tea, or join me in having a slice in…
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Rosemary Jalapeño Lemonade
When lemons caramelize on the grill, they become sweeter and slightly smoky. Combine their juice with a rosemary and jalapeño simple syrup, and you add fresh, green flavor that makes lemonade reminiscent of an infused cocktail.
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Churro Ice Cream Sandwiches
“She is a lover of art, words, sweets, and all things Mexican. She thinks from within a sugar skull.” At least that’s what it says in my bio for a poem published in Red Fez a few years ago, which you can read here. This weekend while indulging a serious Mexican craving, we headed to Playa Betty’s, a relatively new spot on the Upper West Side with a southern California vibe. We have some favorite spots that are closer to home, but we really wanted to relax, and the beachy feel and chance to try another kitchen’s take on Mexican won us over.
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Spicy Summer: Thai Iced Tea
As we head into summer, most of us are craving beach time, outdoor markets, and clean, fresh food. There is a certain crispness to this time of year – the tartness of a ripening berry, the sting of the first sunburn of the season. With my shoulders the color of a strawberry stain, I am guilty of the latter. I have to admit it feels a little indulgent – the mark of a weekend well-spent. Amidst all of the pre-summer revelry, though, I sometimes crave a spicy apple cider or a slice of buttery, toasty pecan pie. Thai iced tea strikes the perfect balance between summer and fall. Star anise…
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Imperfect Baking 101 (& Blueberry Cheesecake Topping Recipe)
How do I prevent a cracked cheesecake? If you ever baked a cheesecake, you likely have consulted with Google or a friend on this one. Just the sight of butter in the fridge generally makes me start whipping up a dessert, which is to say I know my way around a kitchen, but I certainly have not mastered the perfectly formed cheesecake top. Custardy smooth middle. Perfect crust. Check and check. Sometimes with a beautiful crack in the middle.
