Very Vanilla Pear Bread {Gluten Free Option} | Swirls and Spice

Very Vanilla Pear Bread

This pear bread truly lets the fruit flavour shine through, offering just a slight touch of cinnamon spice.  Pears and vanilla pair well by complementing each others’ delicate aromas.  We’ve enjoyed this delicious bread several times over the last couple of months and I plan on making it regularly, as I now prefer it to banana bread. Though it is an ideal way to use … Continue reading Very Vanilla Pear Bread

Cocoa Nut Breakfast Cookies | Swirls and Spice

Cocoa Nut Breakfast Cookies {GF}

Even though it’s January and I’m on a salad kick, no way am I going to give up cookies.  They are my favourite.  And what about some chocolatey cookies that taste amazing?  Sign me up!  Oh, and they’re healthy too!  Morning, noon, or night, you won’t find me hesitating to take a bite. What’s in these cookies that counts as healthy?  Almost everything.  Starting with superfood … Continue reading Cocoa Nut Breakfast Cookies {GF}

12 Glute-Free Party Appetizers and Sweets | Swirls and Spice

12 {Gluten Free} Party Starters and Sweets to Welcome the New Year

Whether you are gathering with friends to ring in the new year or just relaxing with family during a bowl game or favourite movie, bite-sized foods are where it’s at.  And all the better if those delicious bites can be made ahead and enjoyed by all (including those who eat gluten free). Some day I dream of hosting open houses with bountiful buffets where I … Continue reading 12 {Gluten Free} Party Starters and Sweets to Welcome the New Year

Five Spice Pepper Nuts

As an avid baker, I am usually both surprised and intrigued when I hear about something new.  Last month’s discovery was pepper nuts.  Have you ever tried them? I was schooled by a friend in town here about what pepper nuts are and how to make them.  Interestingly, they require neither pepper nor nuts.  They are crunchy (like nuts) and spicy (like pepper).  These teeny … Continue reading Five Spice Pepper Nuts

Pistachio Almond Cookie Brittle {Gluten Free} | Swirls and Spice

Pistachio Almond Blondie Brittle

Christmastime is near.  And that often calls for trays of something sweet to munch on, for which blondie brittle is perfect.  Neither ridiculously sweet nor tricky to pick up, this Pistachio Almond Blondie Brittle is an ideal party guest. And it would make great company for my Hot Chocolate Cookie Brittle and Double Chocolate Cookie Brittle with peanuts.  All of three them can also be … Continue reading Pistachio Almond Blondie Brittle

Pomegranate Orange Bars {Gluten Free}

Pomegranate Gem Orange Bars

Sparkling red pomegranate atop tangy orange bars make a lovely and refreshing addition to the dessert table.  For extra fun, I spelled the word “JOY” with pomegranate arils.  But what you write (or don’t write) is up to you!  The bars look even more colourful with a generous sprinkling of pomegranate rubies.  May your heart and home have room for joy this holiday season. I’ll … Continue reading Pomegranate Gem Orange Bars