Black Cocoa Cupcakes with Raspberry Chambord Buttercream…and a Giveaway
In this post from September, I shared with all of you about my journey through treatment and recovery from breast cancer. That journey humbled me and changed me in ways I will be forever grateful. I rarely sweat the small stuff, and I’d like to think (depending on who you ask) it softened my rougher edges just a bit. I know I am one of the lucky ones. Too many women (and men) are still loosing their battle, but with continued research, my hope is that a cure for breast cancer is near.
As we round the bend toward the end of Breast Cancer Awareness month, and as I celebrate my 10 year anniversary cancer free, I would be remiss not to acknowledge it in some way here on my blog. It comes as no surprise to any of you that I am passionate about baking. If you’re reading my blog, you likely are as well. Following my final chemotherapy treatment, as a gift to myself, I bought a lovely Kitchen Aid mixer. It was the best gift I have ever given myself. Now, I want to give that same gift to one of you so you too can find your baking joy. In addition, for every comment left on this post, I will pledge $1 to the Susan G. Komen research fund, up to a total pledge of $500. So let’s get the celebration going!
Join me, won’t you! To enter:
* Please leave a comment and tell me what you are most passionate about? Where do you find your joy? Then click on the widget below.
* Entries accepted until 12:00am Pacific Time, Wednesday, November 12, 2014
* One winner will be randomly selected and notified by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond to the email notification, otherwise an alternate winner will be selected.
Black Cocoa Cupcakes with Raspberry Chambord Buttercream
2 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup Black Onyx Cocoa Powder (or other black Dutch-processed cocoa powder)
1/2 cup boiling water
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons Chambord liqueur
1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup canola oil
2 egg yolks, at room temperature
2 eggs, at room temperature
24 raspberries, plus 24 raspberries for decorating the finished cupcakes
Raspberry Chambord Buttercream (recipe below)
With oven racks in the upper third and lower third positions, preheat oven to 350ΛF. Prepare two cupcake pans with 12 liners each.
Combine the chopped chocolate and cocoa in a medium bowl. Pour the boiling water over the chocolate and allow it to sit for 1 minute. Whisk the mixture together. Whisk in the sour cream and Chambord.
In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and both sugars together on medium-high speed until lightened in color, about 3 minutes. Scrap down the bowl as needed. On low speed, drizzle in the oil, and mix until blended. Turn the mixer to medium-high speed and beat until the mixture is fluffy, about 3 minutes more. Blend in the eggs and egg yolks, one at a time, mixing each in completely before adding the next. With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the chocolate mixture in two parts. Stop the mixer as soon as the last addition of flour has been incorporated. Do not over-mix.
Divide the batter equally among the 24 liners. Press one raspberry into the center of each cupcake. (it is okay if the top of the raspberry remains partially exposed) Bake for 20 to 22 minutes, or until a cake tester inserted near the edge of a raspberry comes out clean. Cool on a rack for 15 minutes before removing to a rack to cool completely. Frost with Raspberry Chambord Buttercream. Toss 24 raspberries in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Top each frosted cupcake with a sugared raspberry.
Raspberry Chambord Buttercream
1 12-ounce bag of frozen raspberries, thawed
5 egg whites
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups butter, diced into tablespoon sized pieces
2 tablespoons Chambord liqueur
Place the raspberries in a fine mesh sieve set over a bowl. Using a rubber spatula, press on the berries to extract the juice and pulp. Measure out and reserve 1/2 cup of the puree. Reserve any leftover puree for another use. Stir the Chambord into the puree.
Combine the egg whites, sugar, and salt together in the bowl of a stand mixer. (Make sure the bowl is very clean and free from any residual fat.) Bring a pan of water to a gentle simmer. Place the bowl of egg whites over the simmering water, making sure the bottom of the pan does not come in contact with the water.
Whisk the egg until the sugar has melted, then stir frequently until the egg whites have reached a temperature between 145Λ and 150Λ on an instant read thermometer.
Remove the bowl from the pan and place on a stand mixer. Using the whisk attachment, beat the whites on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Continue to beat until the whites are completely cool. Test this by feeling the bottom of the bowl. It should feel completely cool to the touch.
Turn the mixer down to medium-low and begin adding the butter, a piece at a time. Once all the butter has been added, scrape down the side of the bowl and whisk for a few more seconds. With the mixer on low speed, drizzle in the raspberry puree, and whisk until combined.
24 Servings
Source: Cupcake recipe inspired by Julie Richardson’s Vintage Cakes
Raspberry Chambord Buttercream – Mary Weinberg | siftingfocus.com
I don’t need the mixer, but what a lovely way to help someone who needs one to start their baking journey. You started me on mine, and I’m forever grateful. π What brings me joy? 6 pies and my friends and family at our home on Thanksgiving. Thank you Mary!
Thanks Michael!…and if only I could be one of the guests at your Thanksgiving table. In addition to being a wonderful baker, you are a talented cook as well. I know your dinner will be perfect in every way. XX
I simply wanted to say what a beautiful post this is. So far I’ve been a silent follower of your blog but I felt like this post in particular called for me to break my silence π
You write in such a warm, empathetic and positive way and this post only reinforced that.
Congratulations on your 10th anniversary!!!
Lots of love
Thanks Lea, and I’m so glad you finally introduced yourself.
My dearest Mary…. first and foremost, congratulations on 10 years of being cancer free. As you know I was diagnosed again with breast cancer the end of August. I have completed 2 rounds of chemo with 4 left to go. I thank God that I have a huge support group in family and friends. You guys are my rock. My passion lies within my two boys, Aaron and Joshua. I was fortunate enough to attend Aaron and Charlotte’s wedding in September, and now look forward to Joshua and Kelly’s engagement. I appreciate every day, look forward to every birthday, and keep on fighting to see the end to breast cancer for all. I’m tired of doing the Revlon Breast Cancer Run/Walk every year, I am tired of doing fund raisers such as Octoberbreast (my sister-in-law and I) to raise funds for Susan G. Komen every year…. it needs to end now. Thank you for your blog, your wonderful stories, and mostly…. thank you for your love and support.
Lori
Thank you Lori for your kind words. I have no doubt you will beat this monster again. You are the toughest lady I know. My deepest wish is that we both see the day that ‘the ugly beast’ is slain for good!
What a fabulous commitment to life and the lessons we learn. I have learned to let go of the past and not fret so much about the future. For all we really have is the present moment. Practicing “Be here now” and gratitude for all of life’s blessings is my daily inspiration. And right now I am very thankful for the fabulous
Raspberry and Chocolate Cupcakes you have shared with us!
Thanks Deb! And thank you for supporting my efforts and ramblings here at Sifting Focus.
I love reading your blog and find so much inspiration from your recipes. I am a caterer in the DFW area and I am passionate about my kraft! I love the servitude of Catering. Not just sharing our food with our clients, but being of service to the community! There is nothing like the feeling I get when I see my clients at the end of an event, and they are just overjoyed with our services!
Thanks Mary! And I couldn’t agree more, there is something very satisfying about feeding others. We nurture one recipe at a time.
Beautiful cupcakes. They look so amazing and I really can’t wait to make these. What exactly is Black Onyx cocoa powder? Does it differ from regular cocoa powder in taste?
10 years cancer free. What a blessing.
Thanks Sherry! Black cocoa is a highly-Dutched processed cocoa. Dutch-process cocoa has undergone a treatment to neutralize its acidity. Regular Dutch-processed cocoa can be substituted in this recipe, however, the resulting cupcakes just won’t be quite as dark in color.
I love browsing old Vintage shops and collecting things. It’s what I do to relax and enjoy myself. Its like going back in time and seeing the Old World Charm and Beauty in old things. And also strolling down memory lane.
Kimberly, we share the same passion for vintage things. After baking, perusing vintage shops and flea markets just might be my favorite pass time.
I’m so happy that you’re healthy and well to enjoy every passing day π Too many have suffered and lost the battle to cancer and it’s really inspirational to meet a person who has gotten through this. I really hope you keep being healthy for the rest of your days π
My passion is baking, I always turn to the kitchen when I’m frustrated, sad or anxious, and when I’m happy and want to express my love for someone. I really enjoy it and I couldn’t imagine my life without it!
Thanks Myrodia! Baking can clear our minds and feed our souls, and when we share that with others, the benefits multiply ten-fold.
Happy happy happy 10 year anniversary! So blessed to have you healthy and in my life. I am passionate about friends, family, and big blue lakes!!! This recipe looks gorgeous and yummy!
Thanks Jina! Can’t wait for our first baking day at the Lake. It’s a date, right?
Mary,
You are such an inspiration and as you know, I just love following your blog. As you also may know, I’m most passionate about baking and giving back. Having just started a business, I’m saving up money to buy my own Kitchen Aid Mixer. My parents have one and I love it! I made breast cancer ribbon cookies this month that were a huge hit! In June, I’m hoping to bring them back for Cincinnati’s Relay For Life and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to help find a cure for cancer. I think this is such a great idea what you are doing!
Xoxoxxoxo
Megan
* Please leave a comment and tell me what you are most passionate about? Where do you find your joy? Then click on the widget below.
Thanks Megan!…and thanks for your loyalty. It means the world to me. Congratulations on your new business. I’ve enjoyed seeing all your beautiful baked goods. You are quite a talent. Wishing you continue success!!
Cooking and baking have always been my passion even when I was home recovering from surgery to remove a uterus tumor I would go through my mom and grandmothers old recipes looking for new ideas to prepare them-especially the baking and pastry ones that I have collected over the years. Late at night when everyone’s in bed I will sit in my kitchen playing with ingredients and then take what I make to work to my “taste testers” π Mary you are an inspiration to many and I am so happy for you to have beaten the same beast that has taken so many others around us. You are truly an inspiration to others!
Thanks so much Cheryl for your kind words. I have recipes that belonged to both of my grandmothers and I treasure them dearly.
First thing I would like to say is that “Sifting Focus” is a beautiful blog and the recipes always look delicious and achievable for the every day baker/cook.
I’m most passionate about baking because in doing so, I bring joy and a sweet satisfaction to a lot of people who otherwise wouldn’t do the baking themselves and appreciate receiving a homemade dessert.
Thanks Becky! It is so true that there are many people who would never get to enjoy home-baked goods if it wasn’t for those of us who are so passionate about baking.
Congrats on you 10th Anniversary!
Thanks!
Congratulations on your 10 year anniversary, that’s awesome. So many people take their health for granted.
I love to cook and bake. I love to create new recipes both sweet and savory. I’ve been through numerous surgeries and suffer from chronic pain, among other things. When I’m in the kitchen it’s like an escape for me, and one that I really enjoy….I just wish my body would allow me to get in the kitchen everyday.
Thanks Christi! Baking is my therapy. When I am in the kitchen, everything else falls away. Baking is food for the soul…and psyche. π
Has it been 10 years! that is so wonderful – I am passionate about my friendships and my family. They are everything to me.
I’m so happy I am one of the beneficiaries of your passion. π
Happy 10 year anniversary! I love reading your blog all the time and maybe some day I will get brave enough to try to make something! One of my favorite past-times is getting to spend time with your lovely daughter ; ) and another would probably be going for a nice long hike in the woods with my dog!
Thanks Donna! I’m pretty passionate about spending time with my daughter too. Be sure and let me know if you bake one of my recipes.
Hi there, I’m one of Jael’s friends from NYU and Admissions. Congratulations on your 10th anniversary! And those cupcakes look too pretty to eat!
All the best,
Tori
Thanks Tori!
Congratulations on being cancer free. I’m an RN and used to work with pediatric oncology patients and it’s a mean disease!
I enjoy lots of things, but I’m passionate about my kids!
Thank you Linda! I can’t imagine a more honorable (and difficult) job than working with pediatric oncology patients. The world is lucky to have people like you.
Congratulations!! I miss your wonderful family and eating all your scrumptious baked goods and food on Halloween, and of course working at the haunted house. All these recipes look fabulous… I’m gonna take a stab at one your brownie recipes. I’ll let you know how it goes π
Jacob! It’s so wonderful to hear from you!! We miss you too, and baking for all of Jael’s friends. We need a Halloween reunion, don’t ya think?
wow, so happy you’ve been cancer free for 10 years. i am most passionate about lifting others up through encouragement, as well as inspiring people to cook and nourish themselves, which i’m happy to have the opportunity to do through my blog. if i win this mixer, it would be put to great use putting smiles on people’s faces with gluten-free baked goods. xo
Thanks Amanda. Your blog is beautiful and your recipes all look so delicious. I haven’t done much gluten-free baking but I would like to start offering an occasional gluten-free recipe on my blog. I’ll be following along and taking notes from you. Happy Blogging!
I’m most passionate about family and find my joy spending time enjoying wonderful meals together. If the joy you feel, watching your family enjoying meals featuring your amazing baked goods, has strengthened you along your journey, I will continue sacrificing myself at your altar (such sacrifice)!
10 years = 1000’s of desserts = a good start
Congratulations
Thanks Dan! I wish you were at my table more often…I love feeding family!
Congratulations on your 10 year anniversary – that is so wonderful! This post was just so beautiful to read. Send you a big hug!!
P.S. You know my passion is for baking, but at the moment I’m still struggling to find a way to balance it with uni and my new job. Your cupcakes look gorgeous and make me want to abandon my essay and head for the kitchen!!
Thanks Nazia! Yes, I know that feeling. I get agitated when other things interrupt my time in the kitchen. But, priorities are priorities. If the passion is there, then baking will find a way into any little window that opens up in your schedule.
I find passion in my family and loved ones. They give me strength, support, and purpose.
We are indeed blessed with family and loved ones. π
This buttercream looks so perfect! I have to try it.
Thank you for all your beautiful recipes. I make many and dream of more.
Thanks Ashley! And you are so very welcome for the recipes. Next up on the blog is another recipe with buttercream. I think you’re going to like it! π
I am most passionate about raising my children to have a healthy attitude to food. I also try to make sure they consume ingredients free of harmful chemicals
Oh, a wonderful thing to be passionate about. There would be much less disease if there was a lot less harmful chemicals in our food.
What brings me joy? Baking. I love trying new recipes and watching my family enjoy what I make. Cooking is a way for me to unwind and just do what i love. And reading books especially paperbacks there is nothing like opening up a book and finding a quiet corner.
I too find baking relaxing. I’m always surprise when people tell me that baking stresses them out. So glad I’m not one of them.
hearing that anyone is cancer free is beautiful. I am most passionate about hoping to find cures for all cancers, and other diseases. I lost my 5 year old brother over 40 years ago, and still think of him today, and wonder what contributions he could have made to people’s lives.
I now have to sisters that have survived endometrial cancer, and that is a wake up call for everyone to keep up with their health.
So sorry about the loss of your little brother. Certainly a life taken too soon. I feel we are on the cusp of finding cures for some cancers. Treatment is getting better, and early diagnosis is key as well.
My life has been enriched beyond measure (bad pun?) during these last 10 years – having shared them with my lovely and talented wife.
Ah, thanks Hun!
Congratulations on celebrating 10 years cancer free!!! The cupcakes are just lovely, I need to try that raspberry buttercream recipe soon!
Thanks Katie! Please do give that buttercream a try!!
Congrats on 10 years that is a long time in blogging. I am most passionate at this time of the year about planning and baking the Christmas cookie platters I distribute to all my friends and neighbors. Time to get planning.
Thanks so much Mary Ann. I LOOOOVE baking holiday cookies. Every year I bake hundreds of them and then invite all my girlfriends to my home for a cookie night. They each go home with dozens of cookies…and big smiles on their faces.
Since retiring I am trying to slow down and enjoy life. Currently I am working in my garden to increase the bee and butterfly population. It is hard to stress out when you are sitting with a glass of ice tea and wstching the butterflies flutter around.
I love bees…although I am terrified of them. I would like to have a few hives some day but first I have to get over my fear. My brother has a hive so for right now I’m just living out that dream vicariously through his bees.
I am most passionate about making my family smile. I love to bake and I love to see my family smile. I make something different every weekend. I am always trying new recipes. When my dad was in the hospital dying, I asked him what he wanted to eat and I would make it for him. My dad is very picky and would not eat out, it always had to be his own cooking. My dad cooked everyday up until then. He was 70 years old and loved to cook
Maria, we both had dads who loved to cook. It literally kept my dad sane. He worked hard all day and then played in the kitchen each night and on the weekends. He was a fabulous cook. I would do anything to be able to eat some of his delicious food again. Since that isn’t possible, I keep his legacy alive by cooking his recipes for my family.
I’m passionate about coffee, baking and gifting
In that order?…or all at the same time. π
I love cooking and baking for my family and friends. It’s something I do every day and never tire of it. I have a KitchenAid circa 1980, and I love it, and it still does what I ask of it. That pretty in pink one would be a joy to receive. Congrats on your healing journey and thanks for sharing. The recipe looks delicious and what a beauty she is!
Thanks Jacque! Those KitchenAid Mixers hang in there don’t they. But a nice shiny new one would be wonderful to have for sure. Good Luck!!!
I am most passionate about my family. They are the reason I get up and go to work every day; they are the reason I cook dinner and clean even when I’m tired. They are my passion and my happiness. Seeing them happy makes me happy.
Sara, they are very lucky indeed to have you in their lives. It’s the simple things that make us happiest.
I just wanted to post on the topic of your being cancer free! Congratulations!
I battled vulva cancer last summer (Sept 27, 2014) I had sugery to remove the cancer, and followed with chemo and radiation (27 weeks start to finish) . I was cancer free for a whooping 5 months and sadly have been diagnosed once again with vulva cancer.
Good luck with your journey and I will be making these cupcakes I have black cocoa and can’t wait to use it!
Lori I’m so sorry to hear that your cancer has returned. You are in my prayers. Stay positive and keep up the fight.
My wife, Marina, my family, friends and all of the good things that have come my way.
It’s really very simple, isn’t it Thom. Our family and friends mean everything to us.
Congratulations to you and thank you for sharing! Your beautiful blog has been an inspiration for me to get in the kitchen, but your story of beating breast cancer is inspirational in so many other ways! My grandmother has beaten breast cancer twice and I’m so happy to hear other of people who have had the same courage and strength. As for my passion, I love trying new things! New foods, new hobbies, traveling to different countries, new experiences- you name it! Next on my list is trying to impress my future in-laws at Thanksgiving with your maple apple pie recipe! π Happy 10 year anniversary!
Thank you so much Elizabeth! Congratulations to your Grandma – what a fighter.
Congratulations to you! Your beautiful blog has inspired me to get in the kitchen but your story of beating breast cancer is inspirational in so many other ways! My grandmother has beaten breast cancer two separate times and I love hearing of other people who share her courage and strength. As for my passion, I love traveling and trying new things! New foods, new hobbies, visiting different countries, new experiences- you name it! The next thing I’m going to try is to impress my future in-laws at Thanksgiving with your Maple Apple Pie recipe! π
Thank you for sharing your story and your recipes!
Happy 10 year anniversary!!
Thank you so much Elizabeth for your kind words. Congratulations to Grandma! If you go for the pie, please let me know how it turns out.
I find passion in being healthy – eating healthy and working out 6x a week. it makes me feel good.
Taking care of yourself is the best way to stay healthy. Good for you for being so passionate about your health.
I’m most passionate about … I guess the trivial thing is baking, but also how my baking makes other people happy.
Donna, keep making those you love happy. Bake on!
I have lately developed a passion for cooking….real cooking. After so many years of putting dinner on the tale, am learning how to really cook real food. I wish I had more people to feed.
I know what you mean Mary Beth about wishing you had more people to feed. I grew up in a house with ten siblings, my parents,and grand-parents. Good cooking and food was the family glue. With my daughter away at school, it’s only me and my husband. So, I have lots of dinner parties and invite lots of people.
My biggest passion is trying to help any way I can .making someone’s day a bit better is the best treat possible.what you do for you dies with you,but what you do for others lives on.
It’s the little things that are never forgotten. I’m sure you have touched many live in loving ways.
playing music to an appreciative audience
Thomas, such a valuable talent. Music soothes the soul.
I love spending time with my son and his family. Just wished they lived closer. I enjoy baking for my coworkers.
Lucky co-workers. It’s always nice to have someone to share our goodies with.
I find my joy in my family and in Our Lord.
Both worthy of your passion Danielle!
I am most passionate about my family. I have 5 sisters, and while some may squabble and bicker, when push comes to shove we become a ferocious tribe if anyone messes with one of us.
Family bonds are priceless.
What….is it November already?! How I missed this beautiful post is beyond me. But, grounded with a migraine and unable to work, I have time to read your blog and all the touching and encouraging words of your friends and followers who wrote throughout October’s Breast Cancer Awareness month.
I am so impressed, Mary, that you have followed your heart’s call and created a forum for all to share your talents. It takes great courage to put your art out for all to see and for all to critique. You broke through your fear and it shows in your work. You create masterpieces for the eye and mouth to savor. A beautiful dessert evokes guttural sounds…. Oh, if only you could hear us all as we scroll down the page of your gorgeous shots.
Happy 10 year ‘versary, dear friend. Like your desserts, you are beautiful.
Michele, hands down, you are my biggest supporter. I so appreciate your enthusiasm and kind words. I’m so blessed to be living out my passion.
Hi what a fun contest. Your photography is beautiful! I am passionate about raising wagyu/angus cattle in NE Nevada. Knowing that our efforts go into feeding people really good clean is so satisfying. I never thought I would be so in love with a cow!
Thank you Diana! And keep raising those cows. We need good beef!
Happy Ten Year Anniversary.I am a silent reader of your posts.
My joy in life is to be around my family,which is very small,my daughter, son-law,my two fur-baby’s Gran dog’s,and my most wonderful man-my
husband of 47years.I cherish all time I get to spend with them and cook and bake.My son-in law,always does the cooking as my daughter has no interest,so when we go over to their house we work well in the kitchen together.I have never owned a mixer,and at times I do have problems mixing,but having a mixer would be a real lifesaver for me.Thank You for the chance to win.And those cupcakes look fabulous .
Thank you Sally for following along on my blog. We both share a love of family. I am blessed to have many siblings and my husband comes from a large family too. I get so much pleasure from feeding all of them…especially sweets.
My joy comes from the simple things. An unexpected smile, laughter and even tears. The smile on my grandchildren’s faces when we visit, the laughter of family and friends at meaningless banter ( that only we understand). And the tears that we share that unites us in good times and bad. I am 10 years blessed to have you in my life and the baking is just a bonus.
A lifetime of friendship with you is the icing on my cake. <3
congratulations! I’m passionate about baking; I love making people happy with things I make
What a fantastic thing to do. Here’s to 10 years cancer free.I try to be present and find joy in all the little things.
This weekend, I found joy in cooking for friends, wandering around the flea market, snuggling ducks and puppies, and chatting with vendors at the farmers market.
One vendor, in particular, sticks with me. We bought a little succulent from a woman and I asked her what made her decide to become a seller of succulents and cacti. She told me that she’d always loved them, and when she had breast cancer, people started giving them to her as gifts. When she recovered, she knew she wanted to make the plants a bigger part of her life.
Sabrina, thanks for sharing just an uplifting story. One never knows what will prompt a pivotal moment in our lives. Such beauty in how things manifest in our lives.
I’m passionate about cooking….I love to try new food combinations and flavors.
I love to cook and bake. Bread to full meals, homemade soups, and I love it when there are people around to eat and enjoy it.
I love to help people, cook, and love on my puppies!
I am passionate about baking which is why I chose to go to pastry school, best decision I’ve ever made!!
I am most passionate about my Savior, Jesus Christ, and my family!
My passion lies in food. Making it, eating it, giving it. Anything really. In the future, I hope to make a difference in the way food is consumed in America. I want to know how people chose the foods they buy and how fast food has become so embedded in our country’s culture.
Your blog is beautiful and really a pleasure to read. Thanks for sharing your love of food with the rest of the world!
Since my stroke, I’m passionate about helping my family and friends discover who they truly are. We don’t have much time around here…but we can help others (and ourselves) maximize their potential…
I’m most passionate about growing spiritually and emotionally, overcoming things that have kept me from moving forward. I find joy in being grateful; by expressing that gratitude I’ve moved into a more positive place and am much happier.
I would absolutely love to win the mixer. I had to leave my treasures: children and grandchildren, KitchenAid and ALL my baking/decorating stuff back in Georgia, so I could take a job in MT. All of my 5 + decades of life, baking has been my passion. Since moving to MT, a local kitchen store has asked me to come and teach baking. Like healing balm to my soul to get to share what I love!
Congratulations on your anniversary Mary! I do believe that was around the time that I was lucky enough to have you in my life! What a beautiful post this is!
I think my joy comes from so many different places these days, many of which are different than 10 years prior. Each and every adventure my children have taken me on has to be number one. The unique personalities that they’ve developed have been great to see. The challenges they have brought have taught me so much, and I am full of joy just witnessing their growth.
Along with the children, I enjoy cooking, baking, time for fitness and wellness, and my creative opportunities at work!
I am looking forward to trying this recipe as soon as possible!
Love the blog. It is an inspiration in more ways than one. I appreciate the simple things in life. A good meal and a homemade dessert with family and friends is one of many. Congratulations on your ten year anniversary.
Through the years my favorite memories are those spent with family and friends. The smell of my Grandmother coffee cake or my motherβs peach pie makes me smile. Funny how when you get a hint of those aromas the memories flood back to you. Seeing your wonderful creations and knowing you through the years bring those same fond memories to me that I will always cherish.
-Jim
You are one of my best ‘Sweet Eaters’! XX
Congrats on going strong for a decade! It`s a miracle and blessing to be able to keep living and doing what we love to do (and eat!). π It`s very sweet of you to donate to keep the research going. I love this recipe and everything in this post. You truly are a beautiful person, Mary. π
Mary, you are an inspiration to me and so many others. Your gorgeous blog is as big a treat as your baked concoctions. Love you 10 x 10 x 10 and more! Oh yes, I love all natural fabrics and making things with them.
Aawww, thanks Nancy. One of the biggest blessings in life is the ability to inspire others.