Cranberry and Coconut Gummy Candies

Had I known that making gummy candy was quicker than Jello, I would have made it long before now! Seriously, gummies take less than 30 minutes to mix, set, and cut, and only require four ingredients. Can it get much easier than that? These candies were so easy that I had time to play around with sweeteners.  I found that maple syrup tasted better than … Continue reading Cranberry and Coconut Gummy Candies

Simple Stuffed Pepper Soup

It’s the most wonderful and most activity packed time of the year!  A gloriously simple supper of rich soup is an ideal weeknight meal solution.  My friend Jessica shared this this delicious stuffed pepper soup with me, and I know your family will love it too!  It is great to have a hearty homemade soup that comes together in less than an hour, with most … Continue reading Simple Stuffed Pepper Soup

Poinsettia Guacamole Blossoms

Pretty floral guacamole blossoms are great starters for gatherings during the holiday season.  With only three ingredients, they are simple to make.  And the poinsettia flowers can serve as more than a decoration–they can be a conversation starter as well.  Why do we use poinsettias as Christmas decorations?  Have you heard of the legend of the poinsettia?  Did the legend precede the tradition, or vice … Continue reading Poinsettia Guacamole Blossoms

Soothing Spiced Smoothie with Turmeric

Smoothies and I have an off-and-on relationship.  It makes no sense, really, because I continue baking all year long.  Meanwhile, my blender, which can deliver healthy results much more rapidly than an oven, gets neglected in the corner of my counter top.  Smoothies are something I hope to make a more regular part of my days in the months ahead.  Inspiration for a simple smoothie … Continue reading Soothing Spiced Smoothie with Turmeric

Steamed Milk with Cinnamon and Dates

As a college student, local coffee houses (that were not national chains) drew me in as an evening hangout spot.  It wasn’t about the coffee; my friends and I came for the ambiance.  To justify occupying a table, I would order a cup of hot chocolate or steamed milk. However, unlike those artificially tinted cups of warm, frothy sweetness, this homemade version of steamed milk … Continue reading Steamed Milk with Cinnamon and Dates

Apple Goji Berry Spiced Cider

Now at the most northerly latitude that I have ever lived, the Canadian penchant for steaming cups of coffee makes a lot of sense.  But I’ll never join in drinking the bitter stuff, as heavenly as the aroma is.  As an alternative, hot tea has its appeal, yet sometimes I find myself wanting more flavour.  And for flavour, spiced cider is the way to go. … Continue reading Apple Goji Berry Spiced Cider