Here’s a light, refreshing fruit dessert using sweet, ripe strawberries that is easily made ahead – perfect for summertime. We discovered this recipe in an old Cooking Light magazine, and it’s become a family favorite over the years. INGREDIENTS: 4 cups coarsely chopped strawberries 1 cup dry white wine (leftover champagne is perfect!) 3/4 cup...Read More

This old-timey recipe for Pineapple Upside Down Cake is courtesy of a dear friend who is a retired woodsman and has quite an enviable collection of old cookbooks from the turn of the century. Larry enjoys baking in his free time using recipes from his old cookbooks. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup butter 1 cup brown sugar...Read More

INGREDIENTS: 4 cups fresh blueberries 2 cups sugar 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract Pinch of salt 1 cup whole milk 1 cup half and half 2 cups heavy whipping cream METHOD: Place blueberries in a food processor bowl (or blender) and process until berries are puréed. In a large saucepan, pour in puréed blueberries and...Read More

INGREDIENTS: 1 tablespoon freshly grated blood orange zest 1 cup sugar 1/8 teaspoon salt 2 cups freshly squeezed blood orange juice* 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 teaspoons vodka or triple sec 2/3 cup heavy cream METHOD: Place grated zest in a mixing bowl and add sugar. Rub the zest and sugar together with...Read More

INGREDIENTS: 1 recipe for a 9-inch double pie crust 4 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 cup sugar 4 cups pitted cherries* 1/4 teaspoon almond extract 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 1/2 tablespoons butter METHOD: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place bottom crust in pie pan. Set top crust aside, covered. In a large...Read More

There are many versions of this cake recipe on the internet, but I especially enjoy the version from Babbo Cookbook, by Mario Batali. It’s the perfect, not-too-sweet kind of cake to enjoy with an espresso or cup of tea. INGREDIENTS: Cake 4 eggs 3/4 cup sugar 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons finely chopped...Read More

Chocolate and olive oil have a natural affinity for one another. INGREDIENTS: 4 squares unsweetened chocolate 2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, mild or buttery tasting 4 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 cups granulated sugar 1 1/3 cups flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup nuts (optional) 1 large Hershey...Read More

These exquisite-tasting cookies are made with olive oil, a healthier alternative to butter. You’ll never notice the olive oil! INGREDIENTS: 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups confectioner’s sugar, divided 1 cup almond meal, toasted 3/4 teaspoon baking soda Pinch of salt 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, buttery or mild-flavored 1/2 teaspoon pure...Read More

Generally, you would find a raspberry sauce served with this dish, along with canned peaches or peaches in syrup. Blackberries have a nice deep flavor which acts as a wonderful complement to the peaches bright flavors, and white peaches have lovely floral notes as well. The quick grilling of the peaches caramelizes some of the...Read More

By using olive oil instead of butter, you are eliminating the saturated fat of butter, and replacing it with “good” monounsaturated fats and some antioxidants. A light, mild-tasting olive oil is best for cakes or muffins made with fruits or vegetables, such as lemon, orange, apple, banana, and carrots. Chocolate cakes and brownies are excellent...Read More