Sparkling Sugar Cookies

I came into possession of some very pretty sparkling sugar and knew that encrusting cookies with it would be the perfect showcase. Aside from pie crust cookies, dog treats, and hamentaschen, this was one of my first times making cut-out cookies, and I learned some helpful tricks along the way. These cookies are tasty, softish, and studded throughout with black vanilla beans. Without the sugar crust, they’d be perfect for icing, if you’re into that kind of tedium. To make … Continue reading

Popover Perfection

These billowing, golden beauties are as delicious as they are photogenic. They remind me of a hybrid between a sugar doughnut and a cream puff: crisp on the outside, airy on the inside. What’s even more amazing is that these popovers are incredibly easy to make. The batter whizzes together in a blender, just like when making crêpes. Even better, this dessert comes with a show! Turn the light on in your oven, and watch these babies rise, rise, rise. … Continue reading

Grapefruit Brulée

Broiled grapefruits are wonderful. There used to be a restaurant near my house that did them best. The cinnamon sugar crust on top of the grapefruit was thick, and had to be whack-crack-cracked with a spoon. Such a treat. Through trial and error, I’ve done my best to recreate that wonderful and marginally healthy delight at home. Caramelized sugar on top of a grapefruit is heavenly, but it can take an already sweet grapefruit over the top. Use a slightly … Continue reading