No Torch Creme Brulee

With a creamy custard base and a crunchy sugar topping, No Torch Crème Brulee is easy to make at home–and can be finished under the broiler. 
no torch creme brulee

Crème Brulee is a classic restaurant dessert.  And it’s one that always feels special. But it isn’t something that comes to mind when you think of an easy home dessert.

First there’s the baked custard, which has a bit of a reputation.  So I was fearful that I’d end up with scrambled eggs… or watery goo.  

Then there is torching the top, which meant buying a new piece of equipment—and playing with fire. 

But since it’s my husband’s absolute favorite dessert—and high up on my list too, I knew I had to give it a try.  And I learned that the home version is actually not difficult.  And absolutely delightful when it’s done.   Read more


Halloween Pizza #HalloweenTreatsWeek

Tasty and fun, this easy Halloween pizza with fresh Mozzarella skulls is everything you could want in a spooky dinner or snack!

Halloween Pizza

Last Halloween I bought a silicone skull mold.  And it was possibly my best seasonal purchase. Ever! 

You see this makes it super easy to create Halloween masterpieces like last year’s Halloween Caprese Crostini.  And this year’s skull topped Halloween pizza. 

Yes, if you can heat fresh mozzarella in a microwave then press it into a mold, you can make these skulls and become a spooky design artist.

And the whole dish is a snap to make.  Just bake your favorite pizza (commercial or homemade), take it out of the oven, and set the skulls on top.  Drizzle with balsamic glaze and you’re done.

Happy Halloween!  Read more


Pumpkin Cheese Ball #HalloweenTreatsWeek

Cute and seasonal with a hint of heat, this Pumpkin Cheese Ball is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for fall.

Pumpkin Cheese Ball

I grew up in the days when cheese balls were all the rage.  Back then you could hardly find a party that didn’t have at least two!

Now I’m not sure why they went out of favor–perhaps it was the rise of artisan cheese.  But by then I was bored with them and ready for something new. 

Of course, boredom can fade.  So when cheese balls started to make a comeback, I was ready to give them a try.  And they really are fun and tasty, especially when decorated to match the season! Read more


Halloween Witches Brew Cocktail #HalloweenTreatsWeek

Like a colorful Tom Collins, this Witches Brew Cocktail combines Blue Curacao, Empress Gin and Lemonade for a fun, layered, Halloween drink.

Witches Brew Cocktail I’ve always wanted to try my hand at layered cocktails.  They’re the drinks you may have seen with different bands of color–and of course a really fun vibe. 

Now these drinks are often designed for a specific holiday.  You might see red, white, blue for the 4th of July.  Or the sea-toned mermaid cocktail for a fun summer vibe.

Or todays blue, teal, and purple Witches Brew–all dressed up for Halloween. Read more


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