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Happy 4th Blogiversary to Me!

February 6, 2014

I can’t believe I have been blogging for 4 years! A lot has happened since I started the blog. I graduated from culinary school, worked in a few bakeries, attended a few blogging conferences and had a baby. My photography has improved – and I am always working on taking better photos. With a newborn, it is difficult to do some baking, and of course, this day snuck up on me, so I thought I would share some of my favorite recipes from the past 4 years. Enjoy!

Almond Croissants

Berry Parfaits

Melt-In-Your-Mouth Pumpkin Cookies

Blueberry Squares

Key Lime Cupcakes

Raspberry Crumb Bars
Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Filed Under: Uncategorized

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam #BrunchWeek

May 6, 2016

Create an unforgettable appetizer or snack with my instructions on how to make the perfect cheddar cheese board. Plus, I created an amazing Balsamic Onion Jam that pairs nicely with the cheeses.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek


Welcome to day 5 of #BrunchWeek! The week is almost over, so I had to share one of my favorite appetizers – a cheese board. Cheese boards can be glamorous, elegant, and over the top, or simply styled and satisfyingly delicious. There is such a variety of ingredients that there is something for everyone. An assortment of cheeses, meats, spreads, crackers, fruits, nuts, and much more come together to form a delicious appetizer or snack.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Cheese: I had so much fun making this cheese board! Cabot Cheese sent me so many different and delicious cheddar varieties that I had a hard time deciding what I wanted to use. I chose Seriously Sharp Cheddar, Tomato Basil Cheddar, and Chipotle Cheddar – a little something for everyone – and they all were different colors for variety. Three cheeses is a good starting point, since you want to leave room for all the other goodies.
Crackers: Next, I wanted different textures for the crackers so I chose a traditional water cracker, a wafer cracker, and thinly sliced crusty bread. You can toast your bread to give it a nice char. Grissini breadsticks are also a fun addition to boards.
The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Spreads: Spreads are always fun for a cheese board, and when presented in jars or bowls, it gives height and color to your board. A mix of sweet and savory is good, so it appeals to different guests. Jam, compote, and marmalade are good options, and readily available at stores. Balsamic Onion Jam is absolutely delicious, easy to make, and perfect for a savory addition to some crusty bread. I use a mandolin to evenly and quickly slice the onions, and the KitchenIQ Better Zester to grate the garlic right into the pan.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Honeycomb is a must for me when it comes to cheese boards. Once you have honey with cheese, you never go back. It is delicious, and pairs beautifully with many different kinds of cheeses.

Fruit and Nuts: I made a sweet nut recipe and a savory nut recipe, because I like variety. Spiced pecans are a family favorite and made constantly during the holidays. Thyme fried almonds are a twist on my favorite wine bar snack of salted marcona almonds. Salty, crunchy and herbaceous is a great blend of flavors for any cheese board.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek Giveaway!



Balsamic Onion Jam
A Love and Confections original recipe

Balsamic Onion Jam Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons Butter
– 3 tablespoons Dixie Crystals Dark Brown Sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 2 Garlic cloves, grated
– 4 large Vidalia Onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
– Salt and Pepper, to taste


Balsamic Onion Jam Directions:
1. In a large skillet with a tight fitting lid, melt the butter on medium heat. Once melted add in the Brown and Granulated Sugars. Add garlic into the skillet and stir to combine
2. Add onions, stirring to coat in sugar mixture. Place lid on and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove lid and cook for 10 minutes. After, add Vinegar, Salt and Pepper, and stir to combine. Cook an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions the liquid is dissolved and the onions are a dark brown. Enjoy!

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!


The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

BrunchWeek Beverages:

  • Breakfast Margarita by Forking Up.
  • Brunch Sangria Mimosas by The Crumby Cupcake.

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

  • Apple Onion Fritters by Cindy’s Recipes and Writings.
  • Breakfast Pizza by Big Bear’s Wife.
  • Caramelized Apple & Onion Kolaches by The Spiffy Cookie.
  • Cheddar Scones by My Catholic Kitchen.
  • Cinnamon Pancetta Waffles by The Texan New Yorker.
  • Citrus Rolls by Feeding Big and More.
  • Orange Poppy Seed Pancakes by From Gate to Plate.
  • Raspberry Lemon Sticky Buns with Lemon Glaze by Sweet Beginnings.
  • White Cheddar Cheese Muffin Biscuits by Family Around the Table.

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

  • Cheesy Potato Hash by Gluten Free Crumbley.
  • Kale and Apple Slaw by Palatable Pastime.
  • Key Lime Parfait by The Redhead Baker.
  • Lemon Blueberry Parfait by Tara’s Multicultural Table.

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:

  • Baked Egg Boats by Pink Cake Plate.
  • Breakfast Enchilada Bake by Making Miracles.
  • Caramelized Onion and Apple Frittata by A Day in the Life on the Farm.
  • Cheddar & Sausage Frittata by The Chef Next Door.
  • Baked Toad in a Hole Breakfast Sandwiches by Sarcastic Cooking.
  • Southern Eggs Benedict by The Barbee Housewife.
  • Tomato Basil Cheddar Eggs by {i love} my disorganized life.

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

  • Cheddar Cheese Board with Onion Jam by Love & Confections.

BrunchWeek Desserts:

  • Lavender-Lemon Madeleines by Culinary Adventures with Camilla.
  • Apple Fritter Rings by The Healthy Fit Foodie.
  • Individual Fresh Strawberries and Cream Pies by Rants From My Crazy Kitchen.
  • Lemon Mascarpone Crepe Cake by The Suburban Soapbox.
  • Sugar Cookie Strawberry Shortcake by Jane’s Adventures in Dinner.

Disclaimer: Thank you to #BrunchWeekSponsors: 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.

Filed Under: #BrunchWeek, Appetizers-Snacks-Dips, Uncategorized

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

August 19, 2014

This basic Vanilla Bean Ice Cream is anything but ordinary. Creamy, Sweet and flecked with Vanilla Seeds, this ice cream is sure to be a great base for any sundae, float or shake.


Welcome to day 2 of Ice Cream Week 2014! This year the event is hosted by Kim of Cravings of a Lunatic and Susan of The Girl in the Little Red Kitchen. We have teamed up with 25 amazing bloggers to bring you ice cream treats all week long. It’s going to be an epic week full of frozen treats!

I absolutely LOVE vanilla ice cream. Sure chocolate or cookie dough is great, as are other flavors like Key Lime Pie Ice Cream, but I love vanilla. There is something special about eating a well-made vanilla ice cream. I love how creamy it is and when I can see the little vanilla seeds dispersed throughout.

Vanilla is a great base for everything, from ice cream pie to floats, shakes and sundaes. I personally love hot fudge, caramel and sprinkles on my sundae. Top it with whipped cream and a cherry and I am one happy girl!

I usually make a custard base for my ice cream, but wanted to do something different and easy in case anyone was not sure about cooking eggs. I will be posting a custard based ice cream later in the week, so if you would like to try it, it is delicious!



Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
a Love and Confection original
Click here for a printable recipe

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Ingredients:
– 1 cup Whole Milk
– 1 cup Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 1/8 teaspoon Salt
– 2 teaspoons Vanilla Bean Paste
– 2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
– Hot Fudge, Sprinkles or any other toppings optional

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Directions:
1. Make sure the bowl of your ice cream maker is frozen for a minimum of 24 hours before needed. Make sure all the dairy ingredients are well chilled before using.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Whole Milk, Granulated Sugar, Salt and Vanilla Bean Paste until thoroughly combined.
3. Add in the Heavy Whipping Cream and slowly stir/whisk to combine. You do not want to whip it too much. Since the mixture should still be cold, you can churn immediately. If you wish, you can refrigerate it again for 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Churn ice cream according to manufacturer’s directions. You can either serve immediately or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for a minimum 4 hours, or until firm. Enjoy!

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Stop by to visit all our Day 2 Ice Cream Week Participants:

  • S’mores Ice Cream Sandwiches by Cravings of a Lunatic
  • Balsamic Roasted Strawberry Ice Cream by The Girl in the Little Red Kitchen
  • White Russian Milkshakes by The Redhead Baker
  • Very Chocolate Little Malt Ice Cream by Cookistry
  • Kickin’ Peach Milkshake by The Life and Loves of Grumpy’s Honeybunch
  • Vanilla Bean Ice Cream by Love and Confections
  • Chocolate Beet Milkshakes by Farm Fresh Feasts
  • Salted Caramel Ice Cream by Noshing with the Nolands
  • Gluten Free Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Ice Cream by Gluten Free Crumbley
  • Vanilla Caramel Swirl Ice Cream by That Skinny Chick Can Bake
  • Apple Pie Ice Cream by Mind Over Batter
  • Nutella Swirl Toffee Crunch No-Churn Ice Cream by Cupcakes & Kale Chips
  • Chocolate Ginger Ice Cream Sandwiches by Mother Would Know

Our sponsors for the event have provided us with some great prizes. A huge thanks to Cake Boss, Anolon, Microplane, WÜSTHOF, Page Street Publishing and Quarry Spoon. Kim of Cravings of a Lunatic and Susan of The Girl in the Little Red Kitchen have tossed in a bonus prize of a Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker because they think everyone should own one!

    Image 1 Image 2

    Here’s what is up for grabs, One Winner Takes All:
    • 1 Cuisinart Ice Cream Machine in White
    • One Cake Boss Mechanical Ice Cream Scoop with Red Silicone grips
    • One Cake Boss 4Pc Ice Cream Bowl Set, Icing Pattern
    • One Anolon Advanced Bronze 2 Qt Covered Straining Saucepan with Pour Spout
    • One Microplane Herb and Salad Chopper
    • One Microplane Premium Classic Grater in White
    • One WUSTHOF CLASSIC 9-inch Double Serrated Bread Knife
    • One Copy of the Cookbook Making Artisan Gelato by Torrance Kopfer 
    • One Copy of the Cookbook Everything Goes with Ice Cream by Koralee Teichroeb 
    • One Copy of the Cookbook Vegan Scoop by Wheeler del Torro 
    • One Copy of the Cookbook The Great Vegan Bean Book by Kathy Hester 
    • One Copy of the Cookbook Eat More Dessert by Jenny Kellar 
    • One Copy of the Cookbook The Perfect Scoop by David Lebovitz 
    • One Copy of the Cookbook Scoop Adventures by Lindsay Clendaniel 

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Disclaimer: I did not receive any product for participating in this event. The #IceCreamWeek Giveaway is open to U.S. and Canada residents only. ONE winner will receive ALL the prizes listed. Giveaway ends at midnight on August 31st.

    LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Filed Under: Ice Cream & Frozen Treats, Uncategorized

Green Tea Mojitos #BrunchWeek

May 2, 2016

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:
  • Green Tea Mojito by Love & Confections.
BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:
  • Apple Bacon Cheddar Flatbread by Wholistic Woman.
  • Apple Cheddar Scones by Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks.
  • Apple Pie Pastry Braid by {i love} my disorganized life.
  • Bacon, Cheddar & Chive Scones by Books n’ Cooks.
  • Caramelized Onion Apple Galette by Forking Up.
  • Chocolate Covered Strawberry Sweet Rolls by From Gate to Plate.
  • Chocolate Zucchini Donuts by My Catholic Kitchen.
  • Cinnamon Swirl Bread by Making Miracles.
  • Cornmeal Biscuits with Chorizo Gravy and Scallions by Sweet Beginnings.
  • {Gluten-Free} Galette Perougienne avec Chamomile by Culinary Adventures with Camilla.
  • Gluten Free Orange Rolls by Gluten Free Crumbley.
  • Italian Sweet Rolls by A Day in the Life on the Farm.
  • Mini Brioche by The Redhead Baker.
  • Orange Creamsicle Donuts by The Crumby Cupcake.
  • Peach Cobbler Cinnamon Rolls by The Suburban Soapbox.
  • Saffron Bread by Jane’s Adventures in Dinner.
  • Savory Ham & Cheese Waffles by The Chef Next Door.
  • White Cheddar & Black Pepper Gougéres by The Barbee Housewife.
BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:
  • Breakfast Potatoes by Big Bear’s Wife
  • Cheesy Hash Browns by Cindy’s Recipes and Writings.
  • Slow Cooker Apple Butter by Casa de Crews.
BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:
  • Akuri Scrambled Eggs by Palatable Pastime.
  • Bubble Up Denver Breakfast Bake by A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures.
  • Carnitas Eggs Benedict with Chipotle Crema in Avocado Halves by Sarcastic Cooking.
  • Cheesy Breakfast Nachos by Rants From My Crazy Kitchen.
  • Croque Madame Bread Pudding by Cooking In Stilettos.
  • Macaroni and Cheese Soufflé by Tara’s Multicultural Table.
BrunchWeek Main Dishes:
  • Apple Cornbread & Ham Roll-Ups by Nik Snacks.
  • Breakfast Mac & Cheese by The Spiffy Cookie.
  • Italian Sausage Strata by Feeding Big and more.
  • Pizza Loaf by The Healthy Fit Foodie.
  • Shrimp and Andouille Cheddar Grits with Hot Pepper Cream Sauce by The Texan New Yorker.
BrunchWeek Desserts:
  • Chocolate-dipped Orange Cookies by Family Around the Table.
  • Jelly Donut Cake by Pink Cake Plate
  • Raspberry Coffeecake by That Skinny Chick Can Bake.
  • Strawberry French Toast Cupcakes by Brunch-n-Bites.
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.

Filed Under: #BrunchWeek, Beverages, Cocktails, Dixie Crystals, Uncategorized

Lemonade Round-Up

September 4, 2014

Tart, sweet and full of flavor, this Lemonade Round-Up will have your mouth watering!
I am enjoying my time at the beach with family and loving all the tropical drinks so far. Here are some kid-friendly and adult-only lemonades that are sure to please. Don’t forget to check out my other #SanibelBeachWeek drinks and round-ups: Cocktail Round-Up 1, Cocktail Round-Up 2, Mint Simple Syrup, Guava Mojito and {Spiked} Blueberry Lemon Iced Tea.

Homemade Blueberry Vodka and Lemonade Cocktail – Nutmeg Nanny

Lavender Infused Lemonade – Sweet Remedy
Frozen Cherry Lemonade – Jen’s Favorite Cookies
Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade – I Love My Disorganized Life
Blueberry Lemonade Spritzer – Katie’s Cucina
Roasted Cherry Sage Lemonade Cocktail – Nutmeg Nanny
Pomegranate Lemonade Spritzer – Sarcastic Cooking
Key Lime Whipped Lemonade – Real Housemoms
Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Guava and Cream Cheese Bundt Cake #BundtBakers

June 19, 2014

Guava Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a great treat for any day of the week!
  

This is my first #BundtBakers entry. I don’t know why I didn’t join earlier, because I really do love bundt cakes. Of course, when I told Mr L&C I was making a bundt cake, he immediately quoted the lines from “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” – “This cake has a whole in it”.

Growing up in Miami, guava pastelitos were everywhere and they were delicious! This cake reminds me of those treats, with the guava center and cream cheese frosting – a match made in heaven. This cake is a bit dense, like a pound cake, and I’m sure I will experiment more with this recipe in the future, but for now it satisfied my pastelito craving.

Guava and Cream Cheese Bundt Cake
adapted from “A Taste of South Florida” cookbook
Click here for printable recipe

Guava Bundt Cake Ingredients:
 – 1 stick Unsalted Butter, room temperature
 – 1 cup Granulated Sugar
 – 2 Eggs, room temperature
 – 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
 – 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
 – 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
 – 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
 – 1/2 package Guava Paste, thinly sliced


Guava Bundt Cake Directions:
1. Heat oven to 350°F. Thoroughly coat a bundt pan with baking spray.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the Butter and Sugar, until light and fluffy.
3. Add in Eggs, one at a time, then scrape down the sides of the bowl.
4. While on low, add the Flour, a half cup at a time, followed by the Baking Powder. Scrape the sides of the bowl.
4. Add in the Vanilla Extract and while on low, slowly drizzle in the Heavy Cream.
5. Pour half the batter into the bundt pan. Layer the sliced Guava Paste to cover the batter. Top with remaining batter.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out and continue to cool completely on a wire rack before frosing.

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
 – 4 ounces Cream Cheese, room temperature
 – 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, room temperature
 – pinch of Salt
 – 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
 – 2 cups Powdered Sugar
 – 3-4 tablespoons Heavy Cream

Cream Cheese Frosting Directions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, or with a hand mixer, cream together the Cream Cheese, Butter and Salt. After every step, crape the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is incorporated.
2. Add in the Vanilla Extract and blend together.
3. With the mixer on low, add in the Powdered Sugar a half-cup at a time. Scrape down the sides of the bowl
4. Add in the Heavy Cream, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until desired consistency
5. Pour over cooled cake and enjoy!

Until next time
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!


BundtBakers



A big thanks to Lauren from From Gate to Plate for hosting this month. Check out all the Tropical Bundts below:

  • Guava and Cream Cheese Bundt Cake by Love and Confections
  • Guava and Pineapple Impossible Cake by Passion Kneaded
  • Pineapple Macadamia Nut Bundt Cake by Sew You Think You Can Cook
  • Passion-Orange-Guava Bundt Cake by All That’s Left are the Crumbs
  • Mini Spiced Upside Down Caramelized Pineapple Bundt Cakes by From Gate to Plate
  • Hibiscus Lime Bundt Cake by Brooklyn Homemaker
  • Mango Brown Sugar Glazed Bundt Cake by Noshing with the Nolands
  • Pineapple Pound Cake by Magnolia Days
  • Mango Ginger Bundt Cake by Food Lust People Love
  • Almost Pina Colada Bundt Cake by Tea and Scones
  • Mexican Mango Cake by My Catholic Kitchen
  • Mango Coconut Bundt by Jane’s Adventures in Dinner
  • Mini Pineapple Lime Mojito Bundt Cakes by Blahnik Baker
  • Tropical Pineapple Bundt Cake by Bizzy Bakes

Interested in learning more about us?? #BundtBakers is a group of Bundt loving bakers who get together once a month to bake Bundts with a common ingredient or theme.  Follow our Pinterest board right here. Links are also updated each month on the BundtBakers home page.

We take turns hosting each month and choosing the theme/ingredient.

If you are a food blogger and would like to join us, just send Stacy an email with your blog URL to foodlustpeoplelove@gmail.com.

You might also like:
Citrus Chiffon Bundt Cake

Coffee Chiffon Bundt Cake

Filed Under: Cakes & Frostings, Uncategorized

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule

May 11, 2017

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic, with 3 different Wish Farms berries – blueberries, strawberries and blackberries. The addition of basil makes it wonderfully herbaceous and refreshing. 

This recipe was created for the #BerryDelish contest in conjunction with the Food Wine Conference. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions are mine alone.

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #FWCon #BerryDelish


I’m heading to the Food Wine Conference next weekend and cannot wait! One of the conference sponsors, Wish Farms is hosting a #BerryDelish contest, where bloggers were tasked with creating a cocktail or mocktail using their fresh berries. With so many berry good (see what I did there?) cocktail options, like sangrias, mojitos, punches, and spritzers, I knew I wanted to create a show-stopping and delicious variation of a favorite – the Moscow Mule.

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #FWCon #BerryDelish

Moscow Mules traditionally have mint, vodka and ginger beer. While I do have a beautiful burgeoning mint plant, I wanted to use a different herb for this special drink. My mom is growing an enormous and beautiful basil plant, and I love basil in cocktails, so it was a no-brainer.

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #FWCon #BerryDelish

How could I choose between all the gorgeous Wish Farms berries? Well, I didn’t. That’s why I made it with three – blueberries, strawberries and blackberries. They come together with a bit of sugar and basil and create a delicious berry syrup as the base of the cocktail.

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #FWCon #BerryDelish

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule

By Love and Confections
Published 05/11/2017

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic, with 3 different Wish Farms berries – blueberries, strawberries and blackberries. The addition of basil makes it wonderfully herbaceous and refreshing.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Wish Farms blueberries
  • 1 cup Wish Farms strawberries
  • 1 cup Wish Farms blackberries
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 8-10 large basil leaves, plus more for garnish
  • 5 limes
  • 8 ounces vodka
  • Ginger beer

Instructions

  1. Place blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, sugar, water and basil leaves in a medium pot and stir together. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, then simmer on low for 5-8 minutes, or until all berries have burst or released their juices. Turn off heat and let cool for another 5 minutes.
  2. Using a potato masher, or a large spoon, mash the berries to make sure they have released all the juice. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a heat-proof measuring cup and refrigerate mixture until cold.
  3. Place crushed ice in copper mule glasses. Divide the berry mixture between them, squeeze half a lime into each glass. Add 2 ounces vodka to each glass and top with with ginger beer.
  4. Slice the remaining lime for garnish. Garnish with berries and basil.

Yield: 4 cocktails
Prep Time: 00 hrs. 10 mins.

Cook time: 00 hrs. 10 mins.
Total time: 20 mins.

Until next time, 
LOVE & CONFECTIONS

Very Berry Basil Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #FWCon #BerryDelish

Learn more about Wish Farms and their beautiful berries by visiting their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Youtube.

This post was created for the #BerryDelish contest in conjunction with the Food Wine Conference. I was not compensated for this post. All opinions are mine alone.

Filed Under: Cocktails, Uncategorized

Blood Orange Sangria

March 4, 2013

Yesterday was “Girl’s Day”. Every couple of months – because monthly never tends to work out – Thelma, Susan and I, along with three other friends, plan a day where we get together. One of our favorite Girl Day adventures is Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival, which we have gone to regularly for a few years now.

This month, we did movie day at Lolo’s house. Everyone brought a dish, drink, dessert, or in my case, all three. Lolo’s Birthday is Tuesday, so I made red velvet cupcakes to celebrate. Everyone always requests my Buffalo Chicken Dip – which isn’t really a secret recipe, since it’s on the back of the buffalo sauce bottle – but I doctor it up a bit.

It isn’t a Girl’s Day without some form of “adult beverages”. I had a few Blood Oranges from a recent trip to the farmer’s market and thought they would be perfect for sangria. For this recipe, you can either by a pre-made sangria and add to it, or make your own from scratch. Either way it is delicious.

Sangria is usually made with red wine, fresh fruit, and sparkling water or citrus-flavored soda. There are no set rules when it comes to making sangria. Everyone has their tried and true, go-to recipe. The fruits vary, the wines can be cheap budget-friendly, and you can add your own spin on it with sweeteners, juice, additional liquor, and garnishes.





Blood Orange Sangria
a Love and Confections original recipe


Blood Orange Sangria Ingredients:
 – 1.5 liters of your favorite Red Wine, preferably one with citrus notes (read the labels, they’re helpful) or a pre-made bottle of red Sangria.
 – 750 milliliters all natural Blood Orange Soda (I use this one)
 – 2 Blood Oranges
 – 1 large Orange
 – 2 Limes

Blood Orange Sangria Directions:
 – Chill Red Wine, Blood Orange Soda and Citrus for at least an hour before making the Sangria.
 – Slice, then quarter both Blood Oranges, the regular Orange and one Lime. Place pieces in pitcher. Juice the second Lime into the pitcher.
 – Pour in the Red Wine and the Blood Orange Soda. Stir to combine and enjoy. Best if consumed within 4 hours.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS

Disclaimer: Please Drink Responsibly. This recipe is intended for those who are 21 years of age or older. There are external links.

Filed Under: Cocktails, Uncategorized

Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule #PumpkinWeek

October 2, 2017

Celebrate Fall with a Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule – my twist on the classic cocktail with pumpkin and warm Autumn spices!

Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #PumpkinWeek

Welcome to #PumpkinWeek 2017!! I can’t believe what started as a small gathering of bloggers wanting to celebrate their love of this fabulous Fall flavor has turned into such a great event year after year. What started off with 17 bloggers and 65 recipes has turned into 35 bloggers and 105 recipes, 4 years later. As usual, I like to start off my week-long celebrations with a cocktail, and this Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule does not disappoint!

Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #PumpkinWeek

Within the past couple of years, I have jumped on the Mule bandwagon. Aside from the fact that drinking out of a copper mug is awesome, I really do love all the flavors in it. Now, sometimes they are a bit more gingery or limey depending on the recipe or bartender, but since it is quite different than my usual fruity/sweet cocktail order, I like to try them at restaurants or bars.

Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #PumpkinWeek

This recipe does not use lime, but the ginger beer I used had a hint of lime. It’s all about personal preference, and this recipe can easily be made for two or to serve a crowd. The Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup is enough for quite a few drinks. I am actually saving some for another pumpkin-inspired cocktail coming soon.

Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #PumpkinWeek

I started the syrup with both granulated and dark brown sugars. The rich molasses flavor from the dark brown sugar complements the spices, but I also didn’t want it to be too overbearing. When mixed together, the whole drink is warming and delicious. You can probably even use a flavored vodka (caramel, pumpkin, or apple pie) or to really give it a punch, some bourbon.

I love playing around with different flavor Moscow Mules, and even created a Berry Basil Moscow Mule this past Summer. October has me craving pumpkin, apple, cinnamon, nutmeg, and all those lovely warm spices that feel like Fall. Since it isn’t quite sweater-weather yet, I am definitely enjoying this Moscow Mule that is cool, refreshing, and tastes like Fall in a glass. Cheers!

Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #PumpkinWeek

Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule

By Love and Confections
Published 10/02/2017

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
  • Vodka
  • Ginger Beer

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugars, pumpkin, spices and vanilla bean paste. Heat until sugars have dissolved. Set aside for 10 minutes.
  2. Discard cinnamon sticks. Pour syrup into heat-safe container and refrigerate until chilled.
  3. Once syrup is chilled, in cocktail shaker or measuring cup, combine 2 ounces pumpkin syrup and 2 ounces vodka per serving. Divide between glasses, top with ginger beer, and garnish with cinnamon stick.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Here are today’s #PumpkinWeek recipes:

Pumpkin Drink Recipes:

Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule from Love and Confections.

Savory Pumpkin Recipes:

Chicken Enchiladas with Pumpkin Sauce from Hardly A Goddess.
Goat Cheese and Sage Pizza with Pumpkin Crust from The Spiffy Cookie.
Kaddo Bowrani (Afghan Pumpkin with Yoghurt Sauce) from Caroline’s Cooking.
Pickled Pumpkin with Sage and Autumn Spices from Culinary Adventures with Camilla.
Pumpkin Beer Bread from Forking Up.
Pumpkin Beer Cheese Soup with Herbed Croutons from The Crumby Kitchen.
Pumpkin Chili from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures.
Pumpkin Corn Chowder with Shrimp from Kudos Kitchen by Renee.
Pumpkin Focaccia Bread from Cookaholic Wife.
Pumpkin Ravioli with Parmesan Sage Cream Sauce from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen.
Pumpkin Rosemary Hummus with Sizzled Garlic from Amy’s Cooking Adventures.
Pumpkin Stew with Chicken and Black Beans from Palatable Pastime.

Sweet Pumpkin Recipes:

Brown Butter Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies from The Redhead Baker.
Cheesecake Stuffed Pumpkin Bundt Cake from Cooking with Carlee.
Easy Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake from Daily Dish Recipes.
Jumbo Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Pecan Streusel Topping from Family Around The Table.
Pumpkin Blondies from It Bakes Me Happy.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars from The Bitter Side of Sweet.
Pumpkin Coffee Cake from The Chef Next Door.

Pumpkin Cranberry Oatmeal Bars from The Nifty Foodie.

Pumpkin Madeleines from Mildly Meandering.
Pumpkin Pie Energy Bites from Making Miracles.
Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal from Seduction in the Kitchen.
Pumpkin Pie Tassies from Cindy’s Recipes and Writings.
Pumpkin Scones from The Freshman Cook.
Pumpkin Spice Donuts from A Day in the Life on the Farm.
Pumpkin Spice Donuts from Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks.
Pumpkin Zucchini Streusel Bread from An Affair from the Heart.
Ridiculously Good Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Cake from Bacon Fatte.


Pumpkin Pie Moscow Mule from LoveandConfections.com #PumpkinWeek

Filed Under: #PumpkinWeek, Beverages, Uncategorized

Black Velvet Cauldron Cupcakes

October 28, 2017

Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble. Black Velvet Cauldron Cupcakes are sure to be the hit of your Halloween party. Don’t forget the skeleton bones and eyeball sprinkles!!

This post is sponsored by Dixie Crystals

  

Black Velvet Cauldron Cupcakes from LoveandConfections.com

Halloween is just around the corner and if you need a spooky and delicious treat, these Cauldron Cupcakes are perfect. I used a red velvet cake recipe as the base and added black food coloring. When I think of witches and cauldrons, the color lime green is my favorite; so what better way to make a bubbling cauldron than with lime green frosting.
Black Velvet Cauldron Cupcakes from LoveandConfections.com
My little one is going to be a purple witch this year. We usually have big cauldrons to hold all the candy for the trick-or-treaters. When I was a kid, my parents always bought dry ice and we would set it up in a cauldron outside, have some spooky music playing, and my mom would be a witch every year. We don’t do many gory decorations for Halloween so these cupcakes are the perfect treat for everyone!
Black Velvet Cauldron Cupcakes from LoveandConfections.com
You can definitely adjust the amount of food coloring, depending on how bright green you want your frosting. Same with the cupcakes. I used a little bit of black coloring, but you can use more if you really want it dark. Candy eyes, green sprinkles, and candy bones are the perfect topping for these fun Halloween cupcakes
Black Velvet Cauldron Cupcakes from LoveandConfections.com
Click here for the FULL RECIPE:
BLACK VELVET CAULDRON CUPCAKES
Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Black Velvet Cauldron Cupcakes from LoveandConfections.com

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. This post may contain Amazon Affiliate links. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Love and Confections possible. As always, all opinions are my own.

Filed Under: Cakes & Frostings, Cupcakes, Dixie Crystals, Uncategorized

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