These little nutty shortbread cookies are found in several different cultures throughout the world. In Russia, they're made with hazelnuts and called Tea Cakes. In Mexico, they're made with almonds and called Wedding Cookies. In the Southern USA, they're made with pecans and called Pecan Sandies. And sometimes, usually at the holidays, they're simply referred … Continue reading Russian Tea Cakes
Holiday cooking
Spiced Plum Jam for the Freezer
In the Northern Hemisphere, plums ripen in the summer months, typically between July and September. Yet, plum is such a popular flavor for the November and December holiday season, especially when you include warmer spices, like clove and cinnamon. What better way to celebrate Christmas in July than to make homemade Freezer Plum Jam, plain … Continue reading Spiced Plum Jam for the Freezer
Melted Snowman Peppermint Bark
Peppermint bark is easily one of the most popular holiday sweet treats. It can be pricy to buy premade, but not to worry: it's super easy to make at home! This version is special, however. Sprinkles and candies turns this tasty peppermint bark into adorable Melted Snowman Peppermint Bark. Try making this with your kiddos, … Continue reading Melted Snowman Peppermint Bark
Easter Rice Cereal Treats
These aren't your mama's rice cereal treats! The base recipe is my favorite way to enhance the traditional rice cereal treat recipe, using brown butter, vanilla extract, and flaky salt. It makes your typical rice cereal treat KILLER! However, folding in my favorite Easter candy - Cadbury's Mini Eggs - takes these to the next … Continue reading Easter Rice Cereal Treats
Jewish Charoset
Confession: I'm not Jewish, and I've never celebrated a Passover in my life. But I'm fascinated by rich Jewish history and culture, so I'm learning more through their food. I'm so glad I am, too, because this apple and walnut chutney - called Charoset (ha-ROE-set) - is DELICIOUS! From what I have read, this recipe … Continue reading Jewish Charoset
Hot Cross Buns
Hot Cross Buns are one of the most popular traditional Easter recipes. Some say they originated in Greece, some say they were an English invention. Whatever their origin, these buns, decorated with crosses, grace many Christian tables as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Hot Cross Buns are delicately sweet; less of a dessert … Continue reading Hot Cross Buns
Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Macaroons
Did you know macaroons are popular sweet treats during Jewish holidays, like Hanukkah and Passover? They don't contain any of the forbidden foods for traditional Jews during these sacred celebrations. That's just a bonus, however, to the fact that they're absolutely delicious! Even though I'm not Jewish, I plan to make them every December and … Continue reading Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Macaroons
Garlic and Rosemary Rub for Roast Lamb
Are you looking for the best rosemary and garlic rub for lamb? Loin, chop, leg; the cut doesn't matter. This rub will take it to the next level! I've been roasting lamb for years, and while it has always been tasty, this rub makes it phenomenal. The secret: mince that garlic to within an inch … Continue reading Garlic and Rosemary Rub for Roast Lamb
Apple Cinnamon French Toast
A fancy breakfast-at-home doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. This Cinnamon French Toast with Apple Compote and Maple Chantilly Cream is one of my favorite breakfasts to make for special occasions, like Christmas morning or Valentine's Day. These are all ingredients we have on hand in our kitchen on any given day, and it … Continue reading Apple Cinnamon French Toast
Blue-Cheese Stuffed Dates Wrapped in Bacon
The last winter in-season ingredient we're celebrating is dates. We're combining these versatile fruits with tangy blue cheese and bacon to make delicious sweet-and-salty single-bite appetizers! These can be made up to a day early, but be sure to refrigerate them. They are best served at room temperature. TIP: If you don't like blue cheese, … Continue reading Blue-Cheese Stuffed Dates Wrapped in Bacon
Mainstay Kitchen & Home 