5 French Desserts You Have to Try At Least Once

French cuisine has always been marveled at.  From Fois Gras to Beef Bourguignon, French cooking has always been something to aim for and their desserts are no different.  While many people know of the amazing thing called crepes many other simple desserts are left unnoticed and unloved.  These are my top five French desserts that everyone must try at least once in your life- only if you want to live a full and happy life of course :)

 

1. Chocolate Hazelnut Meringues

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Meringues are made with whipped egg whites and sugar, occasionally adding either lemon, vinegar, or cream.  They are light and sweet with a crispy exterior, and absolutely delicious.  While the originals are quite tasty, adding a chocolate hazelnut filling makes it crazy good.  There's only a few simple steps, and if you need a good recipe click here. 

2. Raspberry Crème Brulee

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The earliest reference to crème brulee appears in Francois Massialot's 1691 Cookbook: Cuisnier royal et bourgeois.  In the 1702 English translation the dessert was called "burnt cream".  Crème Brulees are a traditional French pastry with a vanilla custard base and a topping of crunchy caramel to offset it.  They are traditionally served one per person, and are quite scrumptious, and not too tricky to make if one is careful.  And, while the traditional dessert is definitely tempting it is always fun to add a thing or two.  If you're feeling adventurous try adding some fruit, I love a good raspberry crème brulee myself.  If you're in need of a good recipe click here, follow it and you should have no trouble whatsoever. 

3. Orange Bavarois

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Bavarois include whipped cream, crème anglaise, fruit puree, meringue, chocolate or liqueur.  They are usually served cold and are heavenly!  However, if you throw in some orange, you will not be disappointed.  Orange Bavarois are relatively easy to make, and pretty damn tasty if I do say so myself.  If you need a solid recipe to follow check out this one. 

4. Chocolate Éclair

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An Éclair is a French pastry made with a choux pastry, which is then filled with a cream or custard and then dipped in icing.  And while there are many different flavors the chocolate is possibly the best and the most well known.  Chocolate éclairs are classically mouth watering, and while they are a bit trickier to make they're well worth it.  Click here for an amazing recipe, guiding you step by step throughout the whole process. 

 

5. Madeleine

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Madeleines are small butter cakes that are simply to die for.  Delicious enough to have been a muse for the great Proust in his Remembrance of Things Past.  They're a small little treat, and simple enough to make at home, if one is feeling creative enough to do so.  For a great short read, and an original Julia Child recipe click here, the article is fun and informative and will leave you with some enticing mouth watering madelienes.   

 

 

6 Amazing and Easy Ice Cream Desserts that Anyone Can Make

Ice cream is honestly one of the best things ever.  Whoever invented ice cream is a mother f**king genius- they are my god.  Anyhoo, one of the best things about ice cream is that there are SO MANY flavors.  Ben and Jerry's alone has at least twenty... I think... anyhoo either way there's so much variety and truly something for everyone.  Keeping that in mind, you don't always just have to eat ice cream by itself.  You can make sundaes and a variety of other easy treats for yourself.  Here's a short list if you're looking for some new midnight munchies to try, or are flat out bored.  Either way good luck and may the force be with you!

 

1. Brownie Sundae

 

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An all time classic and possible my most favorite thing to eat ever, a brownie sundae is simple and delicious.  With only a few key ingredients, but with lots of room to spice things up, it's hard to go wrong with a brownie sundae.  I like to top mine with melted caramel and chocolate chips- that is in addition to the hot fudge and whipped cream that usually comes equipped :)

2. Ice Cream Parfait

 

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Looking to trick yourself into thinking that you're eating something healthy- why not try an ice cream parfait.  It's pretty straightforward- simply throw some ice cream into a cup and top with whatever assortment of fruits and nuts you desire.  I personally like strawberries, blueberries, with some crushed walnuts on top of vanilla ice cream. 

 

3. Ice Cream Cupcakes

 

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So most people over the age of eight have heard of ice cream cake- if you haven't I'm very sorry because you have been missing out.  To be frank ice cream cake is f**king delicious.  They're affordable, relatively easy to make, and impressive.  Also you can make like 12 at once so BONUS! 

 

4. Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches

 

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First things first, whip together a batch of seriously delicious peanut butter cookies.  If you need a good recipe click here.  Next take whatever flavor ice cream you think might taste good, I personally go for chocolate chip or some type of brownie flavored ice cream, but you should do whatever your heart desires. 

5. Ice Cream pie. 





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It's as simple and delicious as it sounds.  All you need is some pie crust, whatever flavor ice cream you're currently craving.  I personally like a thick pie crust with pistachio ice cream and crushed walnuts.  Or Maple Ice cream with crushed nuts and hot fudge- absolutely delicious. 

6. Ice Cream Cake

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Making a delicious ice cream cake is not as difficult as it sounds- you just need a shit ton of ice cream.  Make a few layers of cake (depending on just how big you want your finished product to be) and then in between the layers add whatever flavor you like.  Then add icing, or frosting, or pretty much whatever.  My suggestion is chocolate cake with vanilla chocolate chip ice cream, topped with cream cheese frosting and strawberries.  But that's just me.  Luckily these are pretty easy to make your own so you can really do whatever! 

What Slow Churned Really Means

If you're like me, and are currently attending ice cream fanatics anonymous meetings, then you've probably seen this weird thing called "slow churned ice cream".  It's apparently healthier and yet somehow seriously delicious at the same time.  And yes, that is definitely kind of true.  However, it is still definitely a treat and not a healthy snack. 



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Slow churned ice cream does have less calories.  It is made with a low temperature extrusion, a process that removes air bubbles in the cream which helps reduce the size of fat molecules.  The end result being an ice cream with significantly less calories.  As an added bonus the process makes a very nice creamy texture which is very similar to that of normal full fat ice cream- thus keeping it almost as good as the real stuff. 


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So yes slow churned technically has less calories, but that doesn't necessarily make it healthy.  And yes I understand that all ice cream has calcium- and that builds strong bones yada yada yada.  But like anything slow churned ice cream is something to be eaten in moderation.  I know it's annoying as hell, but it's true.  But if you're looking for a lower calorie option, you're could truly do worse. 



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Maple Sugar Cookies

Hey, been awhile :)

Anyhoo so school has begun again and that means that my free time has been greatly diminished, we will be having a memorial service if anyone would like to join, nonetheless I'm still trying to bake as much as possible.

A few days ago I made some very drunk, but very delicious brownies.  They really weren't all that special pretty much followed the directions on the box and then added some crushed up oreos on top- but to me and my drunk roommates they were delicious!!!

More recently I made some maple sugar cookies, adding on a simple cream cheese frosting (because it's official I am in LOVE with cream cheese frosting- and it will probably be the death of me via heart attack).  It all started due to some very stressful academic situations- I then decided that baking was the only real solution to such anxiety.  I went and picked up the most basic ingredients for sugar cookies- so pretty much some eggs, butter, and a betty crocker mix.  Sad but true.  Desperate times come for desperate measures (did I mention that like every other college student I'm borderline broke at all times-- I hope that acts as some sort of explanation).

 

But like always I didn't stick to the box rules.  I threw in some good ol' fashioned VT Maple syrup and some extra vanilla extract (because in my opinion they never have enough and the cookies don't really taste like anything often).  Also just a PINCH of salt- if you put in too much you may as well throw out the cookies now because salt is so overpowering that you only really need a tiny tiny bit to make a difference.  Also it's really not that good for you and you're already making cookies, so calm down.

 

From there I followed the regular cookie making format.  Roll up the dough, plop it on the already greased up pan, and then indent each cookie dough sphere with a fork to flatten it out a bit.

 

Throw each batch in the oven for 7-10 minutes and you've got the maple sugar cookies down.

 

For my cream cheese frosting I honestly just winged it.  I threw together about 14oz of plain cream cheese, purchased at the small market conveniently located a block away from my house, about two cups of sugar, a teaspoon and some of vanilla extract, a dash of milk, and just a hint of melted butter (but not too much).  Then I mixed them all together until smooth and delicious.

We weren't even drunk and they were pretty tasty!!!  Super easy, if I can do it anyone can!!!

 

7 Delicious Reasons You Need to Visit Burlington VT

The state of Vermont is home to a variety of treasures, and it's largest city Burlington is no exception.  Despite it's title Burlington hardly feels city like.  No sky scrapers in sight and a cobblestone walking only marketplace makes Burlington seem like a large town more than anything.  Still despite it's size there is always lots to do and lots to eat. 

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Since arriving in Burly for school I have made it a mission to eat as many delicious things as humanely possible.  For me the sweeter the better.  Lucky for me there are tons of bakeries and other sweet centered shops all around Burlington.  While I could spend days, months, maybe even years writing about the delicacies that Burlington has between it's borders, I have decided to give a special shout out to the following seven places.  They're all freaking amazing and if I could never get fat I would probably only eat here:

1. Mirabelle's Bakery

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Located on Burlington's Main St., Mirabelle's is a famous little shop known for their crazy delicious desserts.  It's a great spot to stop for breakfast or lunch, and this little eatery is owned by a lovely chef who provides a variety of sweet treats.  Not to mention their coffee is crazy good, and what's better than dank coffee and delicious desserts- absolutely nothing that's what!

2. Ben and Jerry's

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Ben and Jerry's was actually founded in Burlington in 1978, by it's two co- founders by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield.  Fun fact: Ben Cohen can't actually taste or smell much due to the fact that he suffers from anosmia, he therefore relies on mostly texture to provide variety to his diet.  This led to the company creating their ice cream with the chunks mixed in- a crazy new idea at the time.

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  While the actual factory is located in Waterbury, Burlington has it's own store in the Church Street Marketplace.  Ben and Jerry's is a classic Vermont treat, and a basic household name all at the same time.  While their ice cream will always be delicious- I swear it tastes better here!

3. Cremee's

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Cremee's are what Vermonters call soft serve ice cream.  Vanilla, Chocolate, or twist- no matter what they're delicious.  Add sprinkles- rainbow if you're feeling overly dedicated.  The actual Cremee stand is located down College street along the waterfront, but you can find them at all sorts of small shops across the city.

4. My Little Cupcake

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My Little Cupcake is one of my favorite shops in all of Burlington.  Not only do they have some amazingly delicious cupcakes but they also offer up some crazy good cake pops.  They have every flavor from the classics like chocolate and red velvet to the crazier flavors like maple bacon. 

5. Lake Champlain Chocolates

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My grandma always told me how delicious Lake Champlain Chocolates were, and she was right.  My first visit to Burlington was the March of my junior year of High School, and I made sure to stop by Lake Champlain Chocolates.  Located on Church Street, it's easy to access and pretty much everything there is delicious.  My personal favorite is their homemade fudge, which they actually make there in the shop right in front of you.  From chocolate to peanut butter or almond crunch they pretty much have it all.  While their treats can be a little bit on the pricey side- they're so delicious that as a once a week treat why the hell not!

6. Nunyuns Bakery and Café

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Nunyuns is an adorable bakery and eatery located in Burlington's Old North End.  It offers a variety of sweet treats while also catering some more traditional breakfast options.  Their coffee is solid, their fresh made biscuits are amazing, and their breakfast sandwiches are equally filling and delicious.  Not to mention their chocolate coconut glazed donuts are to die for.

7. The Skinny Pancake

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The Skinny Pancake is a great local company that has a few locations across Vermont.  It's main location sits on Burlington's waterfront at the bottom of college street.  This amazing Creperie uses locally sourced fresh ingredients and has some of the best working conditions around!  Not only is it a great company but their crepes are amazing.  From a savory crepe like the "Pizza Pizza" to my personal favorite the "Brownies in Bed" which is essentially a brownie sundae in a crepe, this great eatery has everything to be desired.  Including some seriously good, and probably heart stopping, poutine. All around the Skinny Pancake is a Burlington landmark- and for good reason.  It's become such a favorite among the student crowd

An Ode to Allie's Doughnuts

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If you have ever been to Rhode Island, then you must have heard of Allie's Donuts.  And if you grew up in Rhode Island then you know that the best way to make friends at any party is to show up with a boxful of Allie's Donuts.  They're seriously a heart attack in a donut but so f**king worth it!

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Located in North Kingston RI, Allie's Donuts provides cheap and delicious donuts that you have to try in order to have the true Rhode Island experience.  They have all the classics like chocolate glaze in addition to pretty much every freaking flavor imaginable.  They even make wedding cakes (see below!).  It's ridiculous.  Now you should be warned that if you go in there on a Saturday, you will be in line, but trust me these donuts are worth the wait.  So here it goes, and ode for you, my dearest Allie's Donuts. 

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Covered in sprinkles and sugary sweets

you surely are the most delicious of treats

you clog my arteries for that I am sure

but my love for you is still oh so pure

I love you my donuts

even if you often clog up gut

because I have stuffed myself completely full to the brim

that honestly my waistline could surely use a trim

but no matter I'll probably be back here tomorrow

because Allie's Donuts you're too good, without you I have nothing but sorrow

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4 Key Things You Need to Remember While Making Pancakes

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"Why would anyone eat anything besides breakfast food?"- Leslie Knope

"People are idiots Leslie"- Ron Swanson

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Pancakes are delicious, and generally they're pretty easy to make.  If you're feeling a little lazy you can easily buy some mix at your local store, or you could get a little creative and make your own batter.  Either way pancakes are a pretty sweet and easy treat to make yourself when those muchies start grumbling.  Despite this, pancakes are also pretty easy to f**k up.  But- have no fear, here are the key things you need to remember when making yourself some dank pancakes!

1. The batter HAS to be smooth

Yes it's difficult and if you don't have a mixer you may get carpal tunnel syndrome.  But if you don't mix it completely your pancakes are going to be lumpy and who the hell wants lumpy pancakes!  No one that's who.  So mix that shit properly!

2. Butter the pan!

If you don't want your pancakes to stick, and therefore not be able to flip them, butter that pan!  It honestly just makes everything easier

3. Size doesn't always matter

Ok so I know everyone says it but I mean it, when it comes to pancakes size really doesn't matter at all.  In fact it's way easier to find success when the pancakes are small- they're much easier to flip.  In my first attempt I used a much bigger pan in hopes of creating giant fluffy pancakes but the first one broke immediately.  I then switched to a smaller pan and began, with much more success, to make significantly smaller pancakes. 

  However if you're pancake master then go ahead and try to make 'em bigger.  If you're a beginner like me, take it one step at a time and remember that's it's quality not quantity :)

4. Keep the heat on LOW

You will burn your pancakes if you try to cook them too fast.  Patience is key and chilling for like two seconds will not kill you

Now I'm sure that there's more to know- because let's face it there always is- but that's a pretty good jumpstart into the world of pancakes!

Top 6 Reasons to Eat More Pineapple

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Pineapple is an amazing fruit that can really be eaten at any time of day.  But in addition to being f**king delicious it's also pretty damn healthy.  Pineapple is loaded with vitamins and enzymes crucial to a healthy immune system.  If you don't believe me here are the top 6 reasons you should be eating more Pineapple. 

1. Improves Heart Health

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Pineapple contains Bromelain which is key in having a healthy circulatory system.  Essentially Bromelain allows the blood to flow more easily throughout the body- and thus helps prevent heart attacks, stroke, and other potential problems. 

2. Helps those who suffer from Asthma

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Because Pineapple is an amazing anti-inflammatory device it naturally acts as a relaxant to the lungs and therefore helps prevent asthma attacks.  In addition Pineapple is loaded with vitamin C which is helpful in preventing body spasms that often lead to asthma attacks. 

3.Supports healthy bone production

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Manganese is a vitamin crucial to bone formation and wound healing, it is also something that our body does not naturally produce on our own.  However pineapple produces a hell of a lot of it- so the moral is eat more pineapple because it's healthy and delicious!

4. Gum Care

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Vitamin C is amazing for oral care.

5. Digestive Aid

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Because Pineapple is loaded with Bromelain, an enzyme that helps digest proteins, pineapple is amazing for your digestive system.  So next time you're feeling a bit full, eat some pineapple to help lighten the  load. 

6. Can help you lose weight

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Pineapple is great because it tastes amazing and it fills you up pretty easily.  It has a high water content and a lot of dietary fiber making you feel full faster. 

A Week in Truffles

Monday- Mocha Truffles

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Mondays are tough and if you're anything like me coffee is a necessity.  Match your coffee with a delicious mocha truffle.  Easy enough to pick up at the store, but if you want to make your own try this recipe for some seriously dank truffles.

Tuesday- Pecan Pie Truffles

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Tuesdays are never the worst days, but they're also never the best.  The day often wreaks of post- Monday queasiness and everyone is still waking up to the week.  This is why you need something simple and sweet to get you through the day- what you need is a nice pecan pie truffle.  Just a quick bite of something sweet to help jumpstart the rest of your week.

Wednesday- Peanut Butter Cup Truffles

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Since the dawn of time it has been understood that peanut butter and chocolate taste amazing together.  This is what hump day needs- a classic treat to get you through the middle of the week.

Thursday- Sugar Cookie Dough Truffles

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Thursday is pretty much the beginning of the weekend, so in order to celebrate make yourself some crazy delicious sugar cookie dough truffles.  They're so good you'll promise yourself you'll only eat two and end up eating 10.  But they're totally worth it so screw it. 

Friday- Chocolate Raspberry Truffles 

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Celebrate your Friday with a chocolate raspberry truffle.  If you're looking to make your own, check out this recipe, it's a little complicated but mouthwateringly delicious. 

Saturday- Snickerdoodle Truffles

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Saturdays you need Snickerdoodles- or at least I do- if you don't you're crazy!

Sunday- Banana Bread Truffles

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Sunday is the end of the weekend and usually a cold slap of reality (especially during the school year).  For a Sunday what you really need is comfort food, something soothing, you need a banana bread truffle.  If you're feeling super crazy try dipping it in chocolate...