Julia Childs' Puff Pastry: Do not be afraid!

First, you need this book to make this amazingly easy puff pastry. Second, nothing in the freezer section holds a candle to this - and the kudos you will get for attempting such a "big" dough. Last - oh the things you can do! Puff Pastry is going to be great wrapped around a brie and a chutney madee with cranberries and pears. The leftover dough is 100% potential - beef wellington, appetizers, a simple jam tart... mmmmm.

Cookie Exchange: Cardamom Pistachio Butter Cookie

I love finding new Christmas Cookies that are really tasty - and unique. These tasty butter cookies have a nice, mild cardamom flavor and topped with pistachios, coconut, and orange zest.

Stocking Stuffer Round-Up

Great gifts don't have to be expensive - a good gift is something that is useful and wanted by the recipient (not just the gift giver!) Do they have everything they need? Get a consumable - like chocolate or alcohol.

Here are some fun ideas for the stocking, gift exchange, or even gift wrap bling!

Impressive: On Hand, No Time, and Little Mess

In 72 hours, my first semester of law school will be over. Scary.

I wanted something other than a can of soup for dinner, but didn't want to take much time to deal with it. Plus, I really didn't want a mess to clean up - again, the time constraint. I can use that time for studying - and writing a blog post! So efficient.

H's Deep Dish Pizza for the Big Night!

Cookie Exchange!

I've read a few FB updates from friends who are frantically baking for an upcoming Exchange. It's pretty exciting to read about as I rewrite my Torts Outline in the Library as opposed to getting flour all over the kitchen and making a triple batch of Butter Cookies...

Bring Back the Cheese! And other fun Appetizers.

It's almost PARTY SEASON!

Here are some fun and easy ideas that let you get to the party on-time.
Nuts - The Cheese Ball - and a Relish Tray

Dreamy Popcorn - as simple as it gets

After an early dinner, I sometimes get the urge to just keep on eating. As I love food - it's not too surprising. However, I also like to fit into my clothes and not blow up like a whale - so I try to keep it under control. So - I've been resorting to popcorn at night. It's the PERFECT evening snack, easy to share or not and extremely easy to snazz it up with some "GOURMET" style flavors. *** Perfect for after holiday meals when the family is just hanging out - and you don't want leftovers!***

First: go for the gold and make the popcorn on the stovetop. Microwaves don't cut it here. It's easy and cheap - and makes your kitchen smell like a high school basketball game (in a good way.)

Old-School Popcorn