Dark Chocolate & Coconut Almond Meal Cookies

Usually when I hear that something is gluten free I’ll run in the other direction.  Well, not literally, but I think you get my point.  Anyway, no gluten no good, right?  WRONG!  I made these amazing cookies that are not only delicious, but they are a pretty healthy option.   There are only a few ingredients and the result are flavorful and moist chocolate chip cookies with a touch of coconut.  Serve these with an ice cold glass of milk and you will be in cookie heaven.

 

Red Pepper & Feta Skillet Scones

I've been wanting to make scones for what feels like forever now.  My first attempt was anything but traditional.  1.  They were savory.  2.  They were baked in a skillet.  I couldn't resist giving this recipe a try.  Feta cheese and roasted red peppers, I mean, HELLO!  I made a few slight substitutions like swapping basil for scallions and using jarred roasted peppers instead of roasting them myself.  The results were quite lovely.  A nice crunchy outside crust and a tender dough studded with salty feta and sweet red peppers.  I think my next round of scones will be more traditional.  Stay tuned...

Life Lately

{found this old pic of my first DIY bang cutting, I think I did an awesome job}

Well it officially feels like fall!  Not going to lie getting out of bed this morning was a little like torture.  It was 44 degrees out and we haven't put our heat on yet.  Time for some flannel pajamas.  Hope you have a wonderful week! 

 {baked a pear custard pie}

{purchased individual lashes for the first time ever and I'm OBSESSED}

 {got to spend some quality time with my Bff at her Godson's christening}

{warmed up this chilly morning with some homemade pumpkin pie oatmeal}

Life Lately...

{Chris and I walked around downtown Jersey City last Friday} 

I needed a little blogging break. It's good to be back. Here are a few snaps of life lately according to my iPhone...

 {my niece and her little pigtails are hard to resist}

 {ate breakfast in my backyard this past gorgeous Saturday}

 {oh Josiah, you are just the cutest}

 {worked on this week's recipe in the comfort of my geeky PJ pants}

{my everyday arm party as of late}

Cake Batter Blondies

Upgrading regular boxed cake mix into something a little more special is something I love to do as seen here and here.  This is another incredibly easy recipe that does just that.  I used Funfetti cake mix and added extra sprinkles as well as white chocolate chips.  The results were perfect blondies.  Crusty on the outside, chewy and moist on the inside. 

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Zucchini Cupcakes

I made these for our preggo friend who invited us to dinner the other night.  She requested chocolate cupcakes and of course I had to give her what she wanted.  All that you need is a box of devil's food cake, a cup of shredded zucchini and a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.  Follow the directions on the cake mix, but add slightly less oil than you normally would.  Once all is properly mixed, stir in the zucchini and chocolate chips.  Bake according to the directions on the box.  I used this vanilla buttercream recipe, it doesn't compare to store bought icing and makes such a difference.  What you are left with is a cupcake that is super moist, lower in fat and higher in fiber.  I may or may not have eaten at least 5 over the weekend ; )

Scenes From The Weekend

{Chris & I walked around 5th Ave and took pics of the awesome store windows}

I started to feel the countdown towards Christmas this past weekend.  So many things to do, so little time.  I made a promise to enjoy every step of the way instead of stressing out.  Isn't that what the holidays should be about anyway?  Here's a quick look into my weekend...

 {laughed out loud while reading Mindy Kaling's latest book}

 {hit up Michael's for my holiday baking packaging}

 {purchased some baking supplies}

{got a little glittery with the nailpolish}

Mixed Berry-Oat Muffins

These muffins are not only super delicious, but they are actually healthy for you.  I was inspired by Candice Kumai's Raspberry-Oat muffin recipe from her cookbook Pretty Delicious, which you may have seen in this post.  Instead of just using raspberries I used frozen mixed berries which came in handy since berry season is now sadly behind us.  I also used 100% white whole grain flour which I purchased at Trader Joe's.  Can't remember the last time I was so looking forward to breakfast.

{spread with a little Brummel & Brown to keep it healthy.  Yum!}

New Holiday Traditions

Yesterday my family and I decorated sugar cookies to celebrate the season.  I think we just may have started a new holiday tradition.  We had a lot of fun especially since none of us are expert cookie decorators.  It was pretty hilarious.  Here are a few pics...

Up next a gingerbread house.  That should be interesting ; )

Me Bake Pretty One Day

I've been finding myself baking a lot lately.  This will not be slowing down anytime soon as the holidays are approching.  I can't always make an elaborate dessert that takes a ton of time.  So, in these instances presentation is everything!

These cupcake/muffin liners will brighten anyone's day.

Just in time for Thanksgiving, these mini dough cutters will make your pies look like something straight out of Martha Stewart Living.

Turn a plain cake into a super elegant one by using this stencil along with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Make your own custom cookie cutters with the help of this kit.

This decorative ribbon adds the perfect touch when packaging baked goods.