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.

 

Watermelon-Lime Popsicles

According to the weather summer is officially here.  I couldn't believe how hot it has been for the past few days.  As the temperatures soar I find myself being able to eat almost an entire half of a watermelon in one sitting.  It's just so refreshing.  I concocted this super simple popsicle recipe to stay extra cool when the weather becomes unbearable...

1/4 of a watermelon

the juice of two limes

2 tablespoons of superfine sugar

Blend all ingredients in a blender (duh!) put in popsicle molds and freeze for at least 4 hours.  I'm feeling cooler already.

 

Banana Pudding

My last visit to the Magnolia Bakery left me craving some more of their delicious banana pudding. I am not a huge banana fan, but when paired with creamy pudding and classic Nilla wafers they are very hard to resist. Luckily, I found Magnolia's recipe online so I was spared a trip to the city. For Mothers Day I prepared individual puddings in mason jars that made for the perfect gift for several of the lovely moms in my life.

High SocieTea House

As I mentioned here, this weekend I experienced my first high tea. It was wonderful! We ordered the "Queen's Tea" which included a choice of tea (I choose the Crème Brulee flavor), quiche with soup or salad, amazing cranberry and caramel scones complete with lemon curd and clotted cream, assorted savories/mini sandwiches, sweets, and plated dessert. Needless to say we left with our tummies full. I can't wait for my next visit to the High SocieTea House. As stated on the menu, this teahouse is a place to explore the lost art of human relationships while enjoying the perfect pot of tea.

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 Dipped Pretzels & Marshmallows

I'm currently working on the sweets table for my niece's birthday party this coming weekend.  These chocolate dipped goodies are the perfect addition and they do not even require an oven.  Simply melt some chocolate (I used pink and green), dip your pretzels and marshmallows and decorate with sprinkles.  Presentation is everything, but it doesn't mean you have to go nuts to achieve it.