Archives for 2016

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing is a family favorite. The salad has bright, bold flavors and colors, and the tangy dressing pairs perfectly with the sweet blueberries and oranges.

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss


Welcome to day 4 of #BrunchWeek. My aunt introduced me to this salad. It is usually present at family gatherings, including brunch, and I love its versatility. You can definitely customize it with different fruits, vegetables and nuts, depending on the season. Blueberry season just started here in Florida, and we have already been out in the field picking blueberries. Well, I did the picking, #ToddlerLnC showed me every blueberry she picked, faked me out thinking she would put it in our bucket, then popped it into her mouth. Every. Time… toddlers…

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss

What I love most about this salad is that I am able to enter it into the #Blueberry Toss contest for the Food Wine Conference. The conference is less than 2 weeks away and I can hardly wait. One of the conference sponsors is Wish Farms – a Florida Strawberry and Blueberry grower. They tasked us to create an original recipe that includes at least 1 serving of blueberries.

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss

I know that this recipe is a favorite in my family, and with some tweaks of my own, this is the perfect salad for any family event – especially brunch. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do. If you are interested in joining me at the Food Wine Conference, there are still tickets available! It is a wonderful experience, with amazing food, delicious wine, fabulous speakers (did you hear our keynote speaker is Donatella Arpaia?!?!) and great sessions planned.


Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek Giveaway 
for $800+ in prizes!

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing
A Love and Confections original recipe
serves 4-6
Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing Ingredients:
Dressing Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 bunch green onions (scallions), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 teaspoons poppy seeds
Salad Ingredients:
– 1 head romaine lettuce
– 8 ounces baby spinach
– 1 & 1/2 cups blueberries
– 1 15-ounce can mandarin oranges, drained
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds or toasted sunflower seeds

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing Directions:
Dressing Directions:
1. Place vinegar, sugar, mustard salt and green onions in a high powered blender, and blend until fully combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the blender is on. Add the poppy seeds and give it a quick blend again. Can be made ahead and chilled.
Salad Directions:
1. Toss romaine and spinach in your serving bowl. Top with blueberries, oranges, and nuts. Serve dressing alongside. Enjoy!
Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

BrunchWeek Beverages:

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Disclaimer: Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own.

Everything Bagel Rolls #BrunchWeek

Everything Bagel Rolls are a perfect brunch accompaniment. The everything bagel spice mix is delicious on the soft homemade rolls. Serve warm with whipped cream cheese for a spin on the classic.


Welcome to day 3 of #BrunchWeek! I am co-hosting this year’s #BrunchWeek with A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures, and the brunch recipes keep getting better by the day! When I brunch, there is usually a carb involved – I’m a total “carbivore”. Sometimes it’s in the form of pancakes, waffles, toast, etc. While I do love bagels, they sometimes are too heavy when accompanied by a variety of food for brunch. These Everything Bagel Rolls are my answer to wanting the delicious everything bagel taste, but in a soft, pillowy roll.

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

I have a mason jar with my everything spice mix and I plan on baking a few different kinds of bread so I can use it all. Speaking of bread, I love Red Star Yeast. It is my favorite yeast to use – I have used it in culinary school, in my home kitchen, and in the bakery. It is high quality and consistent, making bread-baking a whole lot easier. RedStarYeast.com has so many delicious recipes and I want to bake every one!

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

When these rolls were baking, the whole house smelled delicious. I had to have one while it was warm, and smeared on some whipped cream cheese. It would also be great with butter and your favorite jam! These rolls are sure to be a hit at your next brunch!

Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek Giveaway for $800+ in prizes!

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Everything Bagel Rolls
Rolls adapted from Stephie Cooks
Everything Bagel Spice Mix a Love and Confection original recipe

Everything Bagel Rolls Ingredients:
Yeast Roll Ingredients:
– 1 cup shortening
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 packages (4& 1/2 teaspoons) Red Star Platinum Yeast
– 1 cup warm water (110F-115F)
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– 6 cups all purpose flour, sifted
– 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water, beaten for egg wash

Everything Bagel Spice Mix Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon minced onion
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– 2 teaspoons course salt
– 1 & 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds

Everything Bagel Rolls Directions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve shortening, salt and sugar, then let cool to 110F-120F.
2. In medium measuring cup, dissolve yeast into warm water. Add it to the shortening mixture. Whisk in eggs.
3. With a spatula, stir in the flour until combined. Cover bowl with lightly greased plastic wrap and refrigerate for 6-8 hours.
4. To bake, gently turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 16 equal pieces. Tuck the edges of each piece under until the top of the dough is taut, like a bubble, place the dough onto your surface and gently roll the dough clockwise to tighten each roll.
5. Grease 2-3 9-inch cake pans and arrange the dough balls in them. Cover with a tea towel and let it rise for 1 hour. Near the end of the rise, heat the oven to 425F.
6. In a bowl or jar, combine all the ingredients for the spice mix. Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash and sprinkle the everything bagel spice mix on.
7. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown on top, and cooked inside. If necessary, place a piece of foil over each pan, halfway through baking, to prevent topping from burning. Enjoy

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

BrunchWeek Beverages:

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Disclaimer: Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake #BrunchWeek

Light and lemony angel food cake with fresh lemon curd and lemon-scented meringue is the perfect addition to any brunch or Mother’s Day menu!

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek


Welcome to day 2 of #BrunchWeek! My family has a love of lemon desserts. My mom’s favorite is lemon meringue pie. Instead of creating a pie, I opted to make an angel food cake, which was one of my grandmother’s favorite desserts – creating a delicious combination of the two.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

My mom and grandmother have been an inspiration to me throughout my whole life. I learned to love cooking from being in the kitchen with them. We baked bread, made cookies, and cooked meals together. I am fortunate to be able to cook with my mom on a near daily basis. I miss my grandmother terribly, but she is still with us in spirit – especially since #ToddlerLnC is named after her.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Angel food cake is very easy to make, even though lots of people think otherwise. The hardest part is sifting the ingredients – and that isn’t hard at all. Homemade lemon curd makes all the difference – fresh, sweet, and slightly tart, I use this curd in parfaits, crepes, or just eat it with a spoon.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

My friends over at Nielsen-Massey Vanillas gifted me with a bottle of their Pure Lemon Extract and Pure Orange Extract. I used the lemon extract in both the cake and meringue. The hint of lemon in fluffy, toasted meringue is subtle and luxurious.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Do you have a favorite dessert that reminds you of someone you love? I hope you give this delicious cake a try!


Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek giveaway!

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake
Cake adapted from Allrecipes
Lemon Curd and Meringue a Love and Confections original recipe

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake Ingredients:
For the Lemon Curd :
– 100 grams Lemon Juice
– 60 grams Unsalted Butter, room temperature
– 60 grams Dixie Crystals Granulated Sugar (first measurement)
– 60 grams Dixie Crystals Granulated Sugar (second measurement)
– 12 grams Corn Starch
– 150 grams large Eggs, roughly 3

Angel Food Cake Ingredients:
– 1 & 1/4 cups Cake Flour
– 1 & 3/4 cups Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon Salt
– 1 & 1/2 cups Egg Whites, liquid measure roughly 10-11 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract
– 1/2 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Pure Lemon Extract

Lemon Meringue Ingredients:
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 cup Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 1/8 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
– 1/4 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Pure Lemon Extract


Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake Directions:
Lemon Curd Directions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the Lemon Juice, Unsalted Butter and first measurement of Sugar. Whisk to combine and cook on medium to medium-high until sugar has dissolved and mixture is just simmering.
2. Right before the liquids boil, whisk together the second measurement of Sugar, Corn Starch and Eggs in a bowl big enough to hold the liquid and egg mixtures.
3. Temper the eggs: slowly pour the hot liquid, in a small stream, into the bowl while constantly whisking the eggs. Pour the mixture back into the pan and heat on the stove until it is thick and almost boiling.
4. With a sieve, strain the curd into a clean bowl to insure no overcooked eggs get into the curd. Place plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the curd and let it cool for 30 minutes on the counter, then refrigerate it until it is thoroughly chilled. Can be made a day before use. Can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Makes 2-3 cups.


Angel Food Cake Directions:
1. Sift together Cake Flour, Sugar and Salt. Repeat 5 times.
2. In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment, beat the Egg Whites until foamy. Add the Cream of Tartar, Almond Extract and Lemon Extract and whip until medium peaks. Gently fold in the dry ingredients, making sure it is all combined without deflating the whites
3. Pour batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan and place in a cold oven. Heat oven to 325F and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown and skewer comes out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.
4. Invert cake, while in pan, and allow it to cool completely upside down. Once cool, remove from pan.


Lemon Meringue Directions:
1. Create a double boiler by placing a saucepan with water on the stove, making sure the bottom of your stand mixer bowl does not touch the surface of the water.
2. Place egg whites and sugar into the bowl of your stand mixer and whisk almost constantly while on the double boiler, until the eggs are warm and the sugar has completely dissolved.
3. Place the bowl on the mixer and whip until foamy. Add in the Cream of Tartar, Vanilla Extract and Lemon Extract. Whip on high until stiff peaks form.

Assembly:
1. With large serrated knife, cut cake in half horizontally. Spread an even amount of lemon curd on the cut surface, then place the top layer back on.
2. With an offset spatula, spread the meringue over the cake, covering it completely. With a kitchen torch, carefully toast the meringue. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to one day. Enjoy!


Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

BrunchWeek Beverages:

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Disclaimer: Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own. The #BrunchWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up only. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Eight winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The #BrunchWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law.

Green Tea Mojitos #BrunchWeek

Green Tea Mojitos are a refreshing twist on the classic sweet tea and traditional mojito. Mint, simple syrup, and lime juice blend perfectly with the green tea for a fabulous cocktail, or mocktail

Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Welcome to day 1 of #BrunchWeek! My co-hostess, A Kitchen Hoor, and I are so excited for all the Brunch recipes this week. We have a great group of bloggers, amazing sponsors, and fabulous prize packages! all 37 bloggers are sharing delicious recipes today, and you can see them all at the end of the post. Apparently it has become tradition for me to start of #BrunchWeek with a cocktail, so I created these Green Tea Mojitos for the occasion.

Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

I love mojitos, and it’s always fun to put a twist on the classic and glam it up a bit. I was inspired to create this recipe from a little Cuban food truck at my local farmer’s market. They serve the best Cuban Sandwiches and Tea Mojitos. I searched and searched for a recipe so I could re-create it at home, but had no luck; so I created my own.

Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

This mojito is very easy to make and perfect for a warm day. During the Spring and Summer, I have a small herb garden on my patio, and using fresh mint is the key. There is so much flavor and brightness that fresh mint adds to any dish or drink. This would be the perfect drink for a beverage dispenser at a party, just keep the rum on the side as an option, in case there are kids or party-goers who don’t want it.
Visit Dixie Crystals for the FULL RECIPE: 
Green Tea Mojitos

Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek giveaway:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek
BrunchWeek Beverages:
BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:
BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:
BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:
BrunchWeek Main Dishes:
BrunchWeek Desserts:
Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!
Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for individuals ages 21 & up. Please drink responsibly. Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own. The #BrunchWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up only. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Eight winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The #BrunchWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law.

I have an ongoing relationship with Dixie Crystals as a recipe developer and brand ambassador. I receive product, coupons and/or compensation for posts featuring their products. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Love and Confections possible. As always, all opinions are my own.

#BrunchWeek 2016

#BrunchWeek is here and we are celebrating in a big way – join me all week as I create delicious Brunch recipes and share an incredible giveaway!


Welcome to the fourth annual #BrunchWeek hosted by Terri from Love and Confections and Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures. We are so excited to have you join us this year as we celebrate Brunch and prepare for Mother’s Day. 37 Bloggers from around the country will showcase their best brunch dishes, from cocktails to cakes, breakfast breads, tarts, and quiche – there is something for everyone! Our amazing Sponsors have donated some great prizes for the #BrunchWeek giveaway. Thank you so much, Sponsors, for your generosity. We have an incredible giveaway below and we’d love if you would take a moment to read about it and what you can win!

Prize #1 Red Star Yeast is giving one winner an amazing baking set, which includes a mixing bowl, dough whisk, bamboo spatula, rubber spatula, instant-read thermometer, measuring cup, pizza cutter, tea towel, oven mitt, bench scraper, ‘Knead to be Loaved’ apron, 6 strips of Red Star Yeast, National Festival of Breads cookbook, and The New Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day hardcover cookbook

For more than a century, home bakers have trusted the high quality and consist performance of RED STAR Yeast. Inspiring bakers from novice to professional, our goal is your baking success! Visit redstaryeast.com for hundreds of tried & true recipes, baking tips and how-to videos. Better yeast. Better bread. Every time.

Prize #2 Dixie Crystals is giving one winner 1 case of 2-lb Extra Fine Granulated Sugar, a silicone baking mat, Dixie Crystal’s My First Cookbook, and Dixie Crystals red ruffle apron.

About Dixie Crystals: Since 1917, Dixie Crystals® has been the South’s choice for high-quality sugar and sweeteners. Our pure cane sugar products are all natural, non-GMO and provide consistently delicious results.

Prize #3 Cabot Cheese is giving one winner $50 assortment of Cabot Cheese, one Berghoff Cheese Knife and one Slate Cheese Board

Cabot Creamery Cooperative is a 1,200 farm family dairy cooperative with members in New England & upstate New York making all natural, award-winning cheeses & the “World’s Best Cheddar.”


Prize #4 Vidalia Onion Committee is giving one winner a Martha Stewart Knife Set, cast iron fry pan, cutting board, and fresh Vidalia Onions

About Vidalia Onions: Vidalia onions are unique to a very small region. In fact, they only grow within 20 counties in Georgia (which is also why they are the official state vegetable of Georgia)! Vidalia onions were discovered back in 1930’s, and just like back then, they are still planted, transplanted and harvested entirely all by hand! Vidalia onions are grown during the winter months, and are only available in stores between April and September, making them a true seasonal specialty. In order to grow great tasting Vidalias, and to give them their characteristic sweetness, they must be grown in a sandy soil mixture that is low in sulfur (sulfur in soil is what gives onions their hotness). Because of this sweet flavor, Vidalia onions are incredibly versatile and can be used in any sort of dish; grilling, baking, appetizers, sandwiches, casseroles, and yes, even sweet desserts. Each year, approximately 5-million 40-pound boxes are shipped out around the entire country – now that’s a lot of onions!

Prize #5 Sage Fruits is giving one winner a Ninja® Mega Kitchen System® with Slicing/Shredding

Sage Fruit Company is a premier grower/shipper of apples, pears and cherries. Not only are they focused on healthy products, but also on helping kids get excited about healthy eating through their free Kids in Force program that helps kids eat more nutrition and get more physical activity.

Prize #6 Nielsen-Massey Fine Vanillas & Flavors is giving one winner a set of their pure flavors: 2-oz each of Orange, Lemon, Peppermint, Almond, Chocolate, Coffee, Rose Water, and Orange Blossom Water.

Nielsen-Massey Vanillas has been crafting the world’s finest vanillas and flavors since 1907. Each of Nielsen-Massey’s all-nature pure flavors are crafted with premium ingredients, sourced from around the world and chosen to meet the utmost quality standards. From lemon to peppermint to coffee or chocolate, Nielsen-Massey’s pure flavors offer convenience, quality and consistency to ensure your favorite recipes taste delicious every single time. All products are gluten-free, allergen-free, GMO-free, all-natural and Kosher.

Prize #7 KitchenIQ is giving one winner a Lid & Mitt, Edge Grip Quick Prep Knife Sharpener & Pairing Knife Combo, IQ Smart Wireless Nutri Scale, Edge Bug Scissor Sharpener, and Prep & Measure Tool

KitchenIQ, the new houseware branch of Smith’s Consumer Products, Inc., embraces Smith’s long-standing reputation for innovation and quality. KitchenIQ is committed to producing smarter products for the kitchen.

Prize #8 Le Creuset is giving one winner one Egg Carton in Caribbean, a Heritage 4 Qt Rectangular Baking Dish in Caribbean and a Revolution Spatula Spoon in Caribbean.

Le Creuset is focused on inspiring and empowering people everywhere to make joy through cooking. From our original enameled cast iron cookware to stoneware, stainless, silicone and more, Le Creuset has grown to offer products across a range of materials and categories that guarantees the right tool for the right job.


HERE’S HOW TO ENTER:

Tiramisu Tres Leches

Tiramisu Tres Leches is like a match made in Heaven. Delicious espresso-flavored and milk-soaked cake is topped with traditional coffee liqueur-soaked ladyfingers, a mascarpone whipped cream, and dusted with cocoa powder!

Tiramisu Tres Leches #makeitwithMILK #FWCon

This is one of my favorite desserts to date. I love both tiramisu and tres leches, so combining them made an even better dessert! My tiramisu tres leches has the traditional coffee flavor, but the combinations are endless for flavor profiles. I’m sure a fruity one would be amazing during the Spring and Summer months.

Tiramisu Tres Leches #makeitwithMILK #FWCon

This is also great for a crowd. Since the dish needs to be made ahead of time for the flavors to meld, it is perfect to make ahead and bring to a party. I wouldn’t dust with cocoa powder until then, though, because you don’t want it to get clumpy in the refrigerator. I served this dessert to some family and friends, and it was a hit. They keep asking me when I will make it again.

Tiramisu Tres Leches #makeitwithMILK #FWCon

This recipe has lots of dairy – milk, heavy cream, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk. I can’t believe I never thought to combine Tres Leches and Tiramisu before. They are like a match made in Heaven. I have made Pumpkin Tres Leches and Chocolate Tres Leches, and cannot wait to develop more recipes for Tres Leches.

Tiramisu Tres Leches #makeitwithMILK #FWCon

Tiramisu tres leches is rich and decadent, but light and airy at the same time. It is a great all-around dessert. The cream is my favorite part, because mascarpone has such a luxurious texture. It’s similar to cream cheese, but without the tang. You can fin mascarpone usually in the deli or specialty cheese section of the grocery store. Don’t skip this and use a substitution, because it is crucial in the recipe.

Tiramisu Tres Leches #makeitwithMILK #FWCon

Tiramisu Tres Leches
A Love and Confections original recipe
Yield 16-20 servings

Tiramisu Tres Leches Ingredients:
For the Cake:
– 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, room temperature
– 1 & 1/2 cup Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 4 large Eggs, room temperature
– 1 cup Whole Milk
– 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
– 2 cups Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
– 1 tablespoon Baking Powder
– 1/2 teaspoon Salt

For the Milk Mixture:
– 12 ounces Evaporated Milk
– 14 ounces Sweetened Condensed Milk
– 8 ounces Whole Milk
– 4 ounces Heavy Cream
– 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
– 1 tablespoon Espresso Powder

For the Topping:
– 8 ounces Mascarpone
– 2 cups Heavy Cream, very cold
– 2 & 1/2 cups Dixie Crystals Powdered Sugar, sifted
– 2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
– 3/4 cup Coffee
– 3/4 cup Coffee Liqueur, or Coffee Wine Cocktail like I used
– 30-40 Ladyfingers
– Cocoa Powder for dusting

Tiramisu Tres Leches Directions:
1. Heat oven to 350F. Prepare a 9×13 pan with baking spray and set aside.
2. In the bowl of your stand mixer, cream the Butter and Sugar until light and fluffy. While the mixer is on low, add the Eggs one at a time. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to insure everything is incorporated. Add in the Milk and Vanilla Extract and mix to combine.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Flour, Baking Powder, and Salt. Add it into the liquid mixture, while on low.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Make the Milk Mixture while the cake cools.
5. In a medium bowl, whisk the Evaporated Milk, Sweetened Condensed Milk, Whole Milk, Heavy Cream, Vanilla Extract, and Espresso Powder together. With skewers, poke holes all over the cake, making sure you go all the way through to the bottom of the pan. With a ladle, spoon the milk mixture over the cake, trying to get as much as possible into the holes. It looks like a lot of milk, but the cake will absorb everything. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate a minimum of 6 hours, preferably overnight.
6. Thirty minutes before making the topping, place the bowl and whisk attachment from your stand mixer into the freezer.* Whip the Mascarpone with a little bit of Heavy Cream to start. Add the rest of the Heavy Cream and whip slowly working your way up to medium-high, until it starts to thicken and form soft peaks. Add in the Vanilla Extract and combine. Slowly add in the Powdered Sugar while the mixer is on low. Once it is incorporated, mix on high to whip until firm peaks.
7. Remove the cake from the refrigerator and spread about a quarter of the whipped topping on, and make it level, with an offset spatula.
8. Combine Coffee and Coffee Liqueur in a shallow dish and briefly dunk the Ladyfingers in and arrange them on the cake so there are no spaces in between. If necessary, re-whip the whipped topping before piping.
9. Place mascarpone whipped topping in a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pip onto the top of the cake and dust with powdered sugar. Enjoy! **

*Heavy Cream whips better when cold. To insure a good whip, it is best to chill the bowl and whip attachment before it is needed.
**The cake needs to remain refrigerated and covered because of the whipped topping. If necessary, use toothpicks on the cake so the plastic wrap does not touch the whipped topping. If not serving immediately, store in the refrigerator and do not put the cocoa powder on until right before serving.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

On-the-Go with #OXOTot

Warm weather has us spending more time outside having fun. My toddler loves to go for walks around the block and run around playgrounds. OXO Tot sent #ToddlerLnC and I some fun goodies to use in our outdoor adventures.
On-the-Go with #OXOTot by LoveandConfections.com


What feels like Spring to most folks is starting to already be Summer weather here in Florida. We love to go on family walks, but often wait until it cools down later in the day. I will fully admit that I have gone on walks or visited a playground and left my diaper bag at home or in the car. Usually I am always prepared but, of course, when I don’t have a snack or drink handy is when she wants something.

On-the-Go with #OXOTot by LoveandConfections.com

We have loved OXO Tot products since #ToddlerLnC was little. We chose the OXO Tot Seedling High Chair and have loved it since the day we purchased it – it is easy to assemble/disassemble, easy to use and the cushion is machine washable! We have also used spoons, plates, and sippy cups from OXO Tot as well, so I was very excited when we received OXO Tot products for when we are on the go.

On-the-Go with #OXOTot by LoveandConfections.com

The On-the-Go Wipes Dispenser w/ Diaper Pouch holds up to 20 wipes and 5 diapers, and conveniently hooks to our stroller. I never knew how important it was to have wipes handy, until we had a little one, and this dispenser makes it even easier to have fun on the go and not worry about bringing my whole diaper bag along.

On-the-Go with #OXOTot by LoveandConfections.com

The Toddler loves water and that makes me so happy. She drinks milk and the occasional juice, but always asks for water, which is important when you are outside, in the sun, and on the go. We love and use our OXO Tot Sippy Cup, but now that she is older, she likes to drink out of straws like big kids. The Straw Cup (7 oz.) is great because it has a flexible, durable straw and twisting lid that keeps the straw clean and prevents spills when it is closed. Did you know that all OXO Sippy, Straw and Training Cup parts are interchangeable?

On-the-Go with #OXOTot by LoveandConfections.com

#ToddlerLnC’s favorite word is “snack” and we hear it at least 10 times a day. She runs to the pantry and has her own shelf with fruit cups, applesauce and veggie pouches, cheddar bunnies, and other delicious snacks. When we are out, I always have her Flippy Snack Cup with Travel Cover handy. I requested a pink one on my baby registry and everyone at my baby shower loved the idea. We still use it 2+ years later, and I love that I now have a second one to fill with other snacks. It has soft, comfortable flavs that provide easy access to snacks and they keep snacks in the Cup and off the floor. The twist-on lid doesn’t pop off, even when dropped on the floor and it has a travel cover to keep snacks contained while we are on the go. The handle can fit easily onto strollers and is perfect for little hands to hold.

On-the-Go with #OXOTot by LoveandConfections.com

When we are finished with our walks or trips to the park, I put away the Flippy Snack Cup, and clean the Straw Cup with the Cleaning Set for Straw & Sippy Cups. It has a small brush for lids and pump parts, a long brush for straws and bottle parts, and a flixible pick for sippy cups. The Cleaning Set makes cleaning a breeze and it so compact that I can take it with me in the diaper bag, if I know I will be out longer than usual. I am going to add this to my gift ideas for any new moms that I know!

On-the-Go with #OXOTot by LoveandConfections.com

I hope you have fun this Spring, and spend some quality time with your family outdoors. Don’t forget to pack essentials, like sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, wipes, diapers, snack cups and water cups when spending time in the outside.


How do you enjoy the outdoors with your toddler? What are your toddler essentials?

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!


Disclaimer: I received product from OXO Tot for an honest review. I only work with companies that I love. All opinions are my own.

Pavlova with Strawberry Curd

Pavlova with fresh Strawberry Curd is a delicate and delicious dessert! Make it for a special occasion or a delightful after dinner treat.

Pavlova with Strawberry Curd from LoveandConfections.com #SundaySupper


It’s time for #SundaySupper again, and the theme this week is eggs! There are so many delicious recipes to create with eggs, like frittatas, quiches, deviled eggs, etc. I love eggs in almost every form, but decided to go sweet and do a dessert this week.

Pavlova with Strawberry Curd from LoveandConfections.com #SundaySupper

Pavlova with Strawberry Curd is a great way to use eggs, because it used both whole eggs and egg whites. Meringue can be finicky depending on the weather, and making baked meringue (or macarons) is best done on days with low humidity.

Pavlova with Strawberry Curd from LoveandConfections.com #SundaySupper

Another tidbit of advice: cold eggs separate better, yet warm eggs whip up better. Separate your eggs while they are cold and let them come to room temperature before whipping them. In quite a few recipes where egg whites need to be whipped, a double boiler is a great tool to warm the eggs. I usually prepare a small saucepan with about 1-2 inches of water and use my stand mixing bowl as the double boiler – that way, when my eggs get warm, I can move straight to the stand mixer and start whipping.

Pavlova with Strawberry Curd from LoveandConfections.com #SundaySupper

Pavlova with Strawberry Curd
Strawberry Curd is a Love and Confections original recipe
Meringue is adapted from Francois Payard

Strawberry Curd Ingredients:
– 8 ounces Strawberries
– 2 tablespoons fresh Lemon Juice
– 1/2 cup granulated Sugar, divided
– 5 extra large Eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted Butter, room temperature

Strawberry Curd Directions:
* before starting have a clean bowl along with a fine mesh sieve set aside for after the mixture is cooked.
1. Puree strawberries in a food processor, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Discard the solids. Combine the strawberry puree, lemon juice, and 1/4 cup sugar in a medium pot. Heat until just under boiling.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and remaining 1/4 cup sugar. Slowly pour the puree into the eggs while whisking continuously.
3. Return the mixture to the pot and cook on medium-high, whisking constantly, for 3-5 minutes, or until thickened slightly and coats the back of a wooden spoon.
4. Remove from the stove and strain through the waiting fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, making sure the surface is completely covered to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate a minimum 8 hours, preferably overnight.

Meringue Ingredients:
– 90 grams Egg Whites
– 110 grams Granulated Sugar
– 60 grams Confectioner’s Sugar

Meringue Directions:
1. Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 200F. Line one or two baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment and set aside.
2. Put the Egg Whites in a bowl and whip until soft peaks form. Increase speed to high and gradually add granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until stiff peaks form. (The whites should be firm but moist.)
3. Sift the Confectioner’s Sugar over the Egg Whites and fold the dry ingredients into the whites. (This looks like it will not happen. Fold gently and it will eventually come together.)
4. Fill a pastry bag with the meringue. Pipe the meringue into whatever shapes you desire. Alternatively, you could free form your shapes and level them with the back of a spoon or an offset spatula.
5. Bake for 2-3 hours until the meringues become dry and crisp. Cool and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Assembly:
Do not assemble unless serving immediately. Place meringue on serving plate, fill with strawberry curd and top with fresh whipped cream or strawberries. Enjoy!

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Here are more egg recipes from the Sunday Supper Family!

Appetizers & Sides

Main Dishes (Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Brinner and Dinner!)

Desserts

Sunday Supper MovementJoin the #SundaySupper conversation on twitter on Sunday! We tweet throughout the day and share recipes from all over the world. Our weekly chat starts at 7:00 pm ET. Follow the #SundaySupper hashtag and remember to include it in your tweets to join in the chat. To get more great Sunday Supper Recipes, visit our website or check out our Pinterest board.Would you like to join the Sunday Supper Movement? It’s easy. You can sign up by clicking here: Sunday Supper Movement.

Strawberry Scones #IDSimplyPure

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #IDSimplyPure #CollectiveBias

Make every morning extraordinary with International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer for your coffee. Scones are the perfect accompaniment, especially with fresh-from-the-field strawberries!

Strawberry Scones from LoveandConfections.com

I never used to be a morning person, and still, some days are harder than others to get up and get going. Even though I wish I was still snuggling under my comforter, the toddler is awake and the day has begun. A hot cup of coffee is a welcome sight in the morning, especially when I am dragging my feet to start the day.
Strawberry Scones from LoveandConfections.com

The same goes for breakfast. I used to not eat breakfast because I wanted those few extra minutes of sleep. Nowadays, breakfast starts my day off right, whether it’s oatmeal, eggs, or a baked good, like these fresh Strawberry Scones. My family and I love fresh fruit, and since we recently went strawberry picking, strawberry scones were on my to-do list.

Strawberry Scones from LoveandConfections.com

These scones are such a delicious breakfast, and they pair perfectly with a freshly brewed cup of coffee that is lightly sweetened with International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer. I am definitely a sugar and milk kinda gal when it comes to coffee, so I love that Simply Pure contains only 5 simple ingredients, including real milk, cream and sugar. While in Walmart, pick up one of the three flavors: Vanilla, Caramel and Hazelnut. I am a vanilla girl at heart, and it paired perfectly with my scones.

Strawberry Scones from LoveandConfections.com

Make every day special with International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer. 
Which flavor will you try first?
Strawberry Scones
Adapted from Betty Crocker
Strawberry Scone Ingredients:
– 2 cups Baking Mix
– 3 tablespoons granulated Sugar
– 1 large Egg
– 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
– 1/3 cup Vanilla International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer
– 1/2 cup chopped Strawberries
– Additional Vanilla International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer
– Additional Sugar
Glaze:
– 1/2 cup Powdered Sugar
– 3 tablespoons Vanilla International Delight Simply Pure Coffee Creamer


Strawberry Scone Directions:
1. Heat oven to 425F. Prepare sheet pan with cooking spray. If needed, place a second cookie sheet underneath, so the bottom of the scones don’t burn.
2. In a medium bowl, Add Bisquick, Sugar, Egg, Vanilla, Simply Pure Creamer, and Strawberries. Gently stir with a spatula until the mixture comes together and a soft, and slightly sticky, dough forms.
3. Using a cookie/ice cream scoop, spoon out equal portions of dough onto the cookie sheet. Gently brush on additional Simply Pure and sprinkle with Sugar.
4. Bake 12-16 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool on the sheet pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to cooling rack. 
5. While the scones are cooling, whisk together the Powdered Sugar and Simply Pure. Place in piping or zip top bag and drizzle over scones. Serve immediately. Enjoy!

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!