Author Archives: Kim

Garlic Cheese Biscuits

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EASTER HAIR HUNT, the sixteenth book in the Bad Hair Day Mystery series by Nancy J. Cohen, is the first I’ve read in the series but most definitely will not be the last! I appreciated how the author introduces and portrays the characters so I always felt like I knew who each person was and never felt lost trying to figure them out. Even though I started so late in the series, I found EASTER HAIR HUNT was easily read as a stand-alone. However, the protagonist, Marla Vail, seems to have a rich backstory and character development arc throughout the series and I admire the strong family unit that she’s a part of. I plan on starting with book one and follow along since Marla is an enjoyable character and Ms. Cohen has an easy style of telling a story.

I, for one, greatly enjoy holiday-themed mysteries, and Easter is one that is often overlooked. Ms. Cohen creates plenty of details to incorporate the theme, including a Fabergé egg theft and a dead costumed Easter bunny. I loved all the factoids she wove into the story about Fabergé eggs, bee keeping, and philately (aka stamp collecting). Despite the details, the story moved at a good pace and the mystery was well-plotted. While I guessed which one of the suspects killed the Easter bunny, there were some twists that I didn’t see coming which kept the story entertaining. Given that Marla is seven months pregnant in the book, I appreciated that she did everything possible to not put herself in danger. Her detective husband, Dalton, recognizes her value in finding clues and getting people to talk and treats her like a true partner which made the book all the more enjoyable.

Marla owns the Cut ‘N Dye Hair Salon, is a soon-to-be new mother, is raising a teenaged step-daughter, and assists her husband in solving mysteries. Despite having her hands more than full, she still likes to cook for her family and spending time in the kitchen with her stepdaughter, Brianna. They create a delicious Easter dinner for the family and Ms. Cohen includes several recipes for that meal at the back of the book. They all sound delectable. I decided to try the recipe for Garlic Cheddar Biscuits that Brianna makes for Easter dinner because it’s a dish that a teen can easily make without any supervision…and it just sounded too delicious to pass up. All that is required are a few simple ingredients, a few stirs in a bowl, a short bake and voilà, a savory side that goes perfectly with soup, salad, or as Marla serves them, with a Roast Leg of Lamb.

 

All that is required are a few simple ingredients, a few stirs in a bowl, a short bake and voilà, Garlic Cheese Biscuits provide a savory side that goes perfectly with soup or salaid. Recipe shared with permission granted by Nancy J. Cohen, author of EASTER HAIR HUNT.

 

Amazon Synopsis

Hare today, dead tomorrow… Can a stylish sleuth pull a rabbit out of her hat to solve an Easter murder in this to-dye-for cozy mystery?

When hairstylist Marla Vail attends an Easter egg hunt at historic Tremayne Manor, she’s only there to fix hair for a client, Bonnie “Blinky” Morris. But when she’s asked to comb the grounds for leftover goodies, Marla discovers more than just a few dyed eggs. The dead body in the bunny costume is definitely not having a good hare day. And Blinky seems to have disappeared down a rabbit hole.

When trying to solve a murder, everyone needs a friend who’s all ears. For Marla, that’s her husband, homicide detective Dalton Vail. They make an eggcellent team. Dalton isn’t the kind to leap to conclusions, but with his wife seven months pregnant, and knowing Marla finds crime-solving to be irresistible, he worries about her running off on another hare-raising adventure.

Marla’s peeps are hoping for a happy ending, but she may have found a basketful of trouble this time. Can she crack the case before Blinky becomes the next victim?

 

 

 

 

A special thanks to Nancy J. Cohen for offering an e-book giveaway copy of EASTER HAIR HUNT. Contest ends Sunday, March 22, 2020 at 11:59 pm PST. Please use the Rafflecopter box located below to enter. The winner will be announced on this page and on Cinnamon & Sugar’s Facebook page, as well as notified by email (so check your spam folder!)

 

 

 

 

 

All that is required are a few simple ingredients, a few stirs in a bowl, a short bake and voilà, Garlic Cheese Biscuits provide a savory side that goes perfectly with soup or salaid. Recipe shared with permission granted by Nancy J. Cohen, author of EASTER HAIR HUNT.

Print
Garlic Cheese Biscuits
Ingredients
  • 2 cups biscuit mix
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2/3 cup low fat milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

  2. Combine biscuit mix, shredded cheese, and minced garlic in a large bowl. Stir in milk until moistened.

  3. Drop by the tablespoon onto a greased (or parchment-lined) cookie sheet.

  4. Bake for 10 minutes until browned.

  5. Meanwhile, mix together melted butter and garlic powder. Brush over warm biscuits and serve.

Notes

Makes 12 biscuits.

All that is required are a few simple ingredients, a few stirs in a bowl, a short bake and voilà, Garlic Cheese Biscuits provide a savory side that goes perfectly with soup or salaid. Recipe shared with permission granted by Nancy J. Cohen, author of EASTER HAIR HUNT.

 

 

 

 

 

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All that is required are a few simple ingredients, a few stirs in a bowl, a short bake and voilà, Garlic Cheese Biscuits provide a savory side that goes perfectly with soup or salaid. Recipe shared with permission granted by Nancy J. Cohen, author of EASTER HAIR HUNT.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you receive my blog post via email you will need to visit my website to view the video.

 

 

 

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If you enjoy great food, check out A BAD HAIR DAY COOKBOOK, a collection of recipes from Nancy J. Cohen’s cozy mystery series!

 

 

I was provided an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

 

All that is required are a few simple ingredients, a few stirs in a bowl, a short bake and voilà, Garlic Cheese Biscuits provide a savory side that goes perfectly with soup or salaid. Recipe shared with permission granted by Nancy J. Cohen, author of EASTER HAIR HUNT.

 

Azad’s Armenian Sweet Bread (Choereg)

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ON THE LAMB, the fourth book in the Kebab Kitchen Mystery series by Tina Kashian, is a delightful read that immerses the reader in the boardwalk culture of Ocean Crest, New Jersey. Ms. Kashian does a fabulous job with her descriptive voice and I felt like I was there experiencing the beachy tourist destination and beautiful ocean views. The protagonist, Lucy Berberian, works as the manager for her family’s Mediterranean restaurant, Kebab Kitchen. I love how close-knit her family is, from her parents (who are trying to ease into semi-retirement) to her sister, Emma, along with her sweet niece and brother-in-law. Their interaction seems realistic and the support between the family members is also extended to the other employees who work at their restaurant. The author also creates many memorable characters that adds to the entertainment of the book, such as Lucy’s new elderly landlady…she’s a hoot…and a Harley-riding biker named Pumpkin.

When her landlady’s nephew is found murdered on the beach during a bonfire event, the local candy shop owner, Melanie, becomes a suspect because of an argument she had with him shortly before his demise. Melanie begs Lucy to find the truth so she begins to ask questions around town. Assisting Lucy is her best friend, Katie. They make a great team and I enjoyed how they not only egg each other on, but then they try to talk sense into each other before getting into danger. This leads to some humorous situations. There were plenty of suspects who hated the dead man and keeps the reader guessing. With an edge-of-your seat reveal, the author kept me turning pages faster and faster until I’d read the very last page.

Not only does Lucy run Kebab Kitchen, but she’s dating the head chef, Azad, and is planning to host her very first family Easter dinner. There are so many mouth-watering mentions of food throughout the book and, luckily for the reader, Ms. Kashian provides a few recipes. I was drawn to the recipe for Azad’s Armenia Sweet Bread, also known as Choereg. This is a rich, buttery yeast bread that I didn’t find too difficult to make, especially if you have a stand mixer to do the kneading for you. The author also suggests inserting chocolate candy squares into the center of the buns before baking, and that addition pushed the yum factor into the stratosphere! This recipe makes a huge batch, making them a delicious addition to any brunch table or special luncheon…or prepare them like Lucy did when she wanted to wow her family at Easter.

 

Azad’s Armenia Sweet Bread, also known as Choereg, is a rich, buttery yeast bread. The surprise addition of a chocolate-filled center makes these even more mouthwatering! Recipe shared with permission granted by Tina Kashian, author of ON THE LAMB.

 

Amazon Synopsis

Lucy Berberian is busy preparing her family’s Mediterranean restaurant for Easter on the Jersey Shore—but a batch of sweets is to die for . . .

Bikers are thundering into the seaside town of Ocean Crest for the annual Bikers on the Beach gathering that raises funds for injured veterans. It’s a big boost for the Kebab Kitchen, as well as for local businesses like Melanie Haven’s candy shop. But Melanie is about to find herself in a sticky situation.

When Melanie and Lucy attend a beach bonfire, a local landlord is found dead after apparently choking on a piece of salt water taffy. Melanie, who was known to have a contentious relationship with the victim, is quickly skewered as the prime suspect. But Lucy is determined to prove her friend’s innocence before the real killer coasts free . . .

 

 

 

 

 

A special thanks to Tina Kashian for offering two print giveaway copies of ON THE LAMB. Contest ends Sunday, March 15, 2020 at 11:59 pm PST and is limited to U.S. residents only. Please use the Rafflecopter box located below to enter. The winner will be announced on this page and on Cinnamon & Sugar’s Facebook page, as well as notified by email (so check your spam folder!)

 

 

 

 

 

Azad’s Armenia Sweet Bread, also known as Choereg, is a rich, buttery yeast bread. The surprise addition of a chocolate-filled center makes these even more mouthwatering! Recipe shared with permission granted by Tina Kashian, author of ON THE LAMB.

Print
Azad's Armenian Sweet Bread (Choereg)
Ingredients
  • 1/4 ounce package of active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup lukewarm water
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 cup lukewarm whole milk
  • 7 cups flour
  • Sesame seeds
  • 3 Hershey chocolate bars (optional)
Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine yeast, water, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and stir until mixture is dissolved. Set aside.

  2. In a large bowl, combine three of the eggs, salt, and remaining sugar. Add yeast mixture, butter, and milk. Mix with an electric mixer or by hand until blended.

  3. Add flour, a cup at a time, and mix with a dough hook of an electric mixer or by hand. Knead dough until it is smooth (about 10 minutes).

  4. Cover bowl with a towel and set aside to rise for 2 hours. The dough should double in size.

  5. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

  6. Shape dough into small buns. Optional: When shaping dough into small buns, insert two squares of chocolate into the bun, then pinch the bun dough closed until it seals.

  7. Beat remaining egg and brush tops of buns with egg wash. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

  8. Bake for 15 minutes until tops of buns are golden brown.

  9. For leftover buns, warm in a toaster oven, oven, or microwave before serving for delicious, warm sweet bread.

Makes about 3 dozen.
Cinnamon & Sugar's Notes

  1. The author says that there isn't a need to do a second rising after forming the buns. I did, however, allow the buns to rest about 30 minutes before baking because the dough seemed a little dense after forming the bun. This could have been due to the ambient temperature of my kitchen (it was very cold) while if I had made these in the summer, the second rise could have been skipped. Basically the formed buns should be slightly puffy before baking.

 

Azad’s Armenia Sweet Bread, also known as Choereg, is a rich, buttery yeast bread. The surprise addition of a chocolate-filled center makes these even more mouthwatering! Recipe shared with permission granted by Tina Kashian, author of ON THE LAMB.

 

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

 

Pin to Pinterest:

Azad’s Armenia Sweet Bread, also known as Choereg, is a rich, buttery yeast bread. The surprise addition of a chocolate-filled center makes these even more mouthwatering! Recipe shared with permission granted by Tina Kashian, author of ON THE LAMB.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you receive my blog post via email you will need to visit my website to view the video.

 

I was provided an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

 

Azad’s Armenia Sweet Bread, also known as Choereg, is a rich, buttery yeast bread. The surprise addition of a chocolate-filled center makes these even more mouthwatering! Recipe shared with permission granted by Tina Kashian, author of ON THE LAMB.

Greek Farina Cake

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HERE COMES THE BODY, the first book in the brand new Catering Hall Mystery series by Maria DiRico (aka award-winning author Ellen Byron) combines the perfect balance of a clever mystery, zany characters, and witty humor. It captured my imagination and my attention so thoroughly, I didn’t want to put it down until I’d read the very last word. As the daughter of a mobster (who’s trying to go straight), protagonist Mia Carina has developed a very strong personality and has what it takes to meet life head-on and then move on (like being a person of interest in her cheating husband’s disappearance). The smart-alecky responses to situations Mia finds herself in, provides plenty of laugh out loud moments, while heart-felt scenes concerning her missing parakeet brings an emotional depth to the story. I greatly enjoyed that the author embraces the vibes of Queens, New York, instead of focusing on the typical pretentiousness of Manhattan. The way she weaves the comparisons into the story provides another layer of humor.

The author’s descriptive voice makes the setting come alive so I felt like I was visiting the Astoria neighborhood as she captures the flavors of the Italian and Greek residents. And oh what fun those senior neighborhood women are! Heading up the “Army” is Mia’s elderly Italian grandmother, Elisabetta. She and her friends add another dimension of humor to the story. Don’t think for a moment that since the story is filled with humor and entertaining characters, that the mystery has been overlooked. It hasn’t in the least. HERE COMES THE BODY is well-plotted with sub-plots that intertwine with the main murder mystery, and plenty of shady characters to keep the reader guessing. Ms. DiRico touches on crime themes that many cozy mysteries might shy away from. It has a bit of an edgier feel than a typical “English Village” cozy, yet she makes it work beautifully and I am eager to read future books in this new series!

Mia’s grandmother, along with the other elderly women in the neighborhood, are all great cooks. There is always an offer (or push) to eat with them and lots of yummy dishes mentioned in the book. Ms. DiRico provides a few recipes at the back of the book and I was drawn to the recipe for Farina Greek Cake. With the addition of a honey and orange zest syrup soaked into the baked cake, I was sure this cake had to be moist, flavorful and delicious… and I was right! I did have to utilize Google to find out what Farina is and much to my surprise, it’s Cream of Wheat… which makes this a pantry staple type of dessert. Easy to make, the honey syrup adds a lovely flavor and texture to this dense-style cake. It also made it possible to eat over several days without the cake getting stale. A dollop of whipped cream and a few sprinkles of pistachios for garnish, Farina Greek Cake is a sweet ending to any supper.

 

Greek Farina Cake is made from pantry and refrigerated staples and then drenched in a honey, orange zest syrup, which results in a supremely moist and flavorful dessert. Recipe shared with permission granted by Maria DiRico, author of HERE COMES THE BODY.

 

 

Amazon Synopsis

After her philandering husband’s boat went down, newly single Mia Carina went back to Astoria, the bustling Queens neighborhood of her youth. Living with her nonna and her oversized cat, Doorstop, she’s got a whole new life—including some amateur sleuthing . . .

Mia is starting work at Belle View, her father’s catering hall, a popular spot for weddings, office parties, and more—despite the planes that occasionally roar overhead on their way to LaGuardia and rattle the crystal chandelier. Soon she’s planning a bachelor party for a less-than-gentlemanly groom. But it goes awry when the gigantic cake is wheeled in and a deadly surprise is revealed . . .

Since some of her family’s associates are on the shady side, the NYPD wastes no time in casting suspicion on Mia’s father. Now, Mia’s going to have to use all her street smarts to keep him out of Rikers Island . . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

A special thanks to Maria DiRico for providing one winner with a print copy of HERE COMES THE BODY. Contest ends Sunday, March 8, 2020 at 11:59 pm PST and is limited to U.S. residents. Please use the Rafflecopter box located below to enter. The winner will be announced on this page and on Cinnamon & Sugar’s Facebook page, as well as notified by email (so check your spam folder!)

 

 

 

 

 

Greek Farina Cake is made from pantry and refrigerated staples and then drenched in a honey, orange zest syrup, which results in a supremely moist and flavorful dessert. Recipe shared with permission granted by Maria DiRico, author of HERE COMES THE BODY.

Print
Greek Farina Cake

Serves 16

Ingredients
Ingredients for the Cake
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon double-acting baking powder
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 6 eggs
  • 3/4 cup regular, uncooked farina
Ingredients for the Syrup
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest
  • 1/4 cup honey
Optional
  • Whipped cream
  • Crushed pistachio nuts
Instructions
Instructions for the Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees (F).

  2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.

  3. Cream the butter with an electric mixer. Slowly add the sugar, then add the eggs one at a time at slow speed, making sure to beat well after adding each egg.

  4. While running the mixer on medium speed, slowly add the flour mixture, and then the farina. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

  5. Pour batter into an 8" x 8" baking pan and bake for 35 - 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted to test it comes out clean.

Instructions for the Syrup

  1. While the cake is baking, combine the water, sugar, vanilla, orange zest, and honey in a heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. You can simmer it for the duration of the cake's baking time. If you turn the heat off, make sure to heat up the syrup again before using to finish the cake.

Instructions for Finishing the Cake

  1. While the cake is hot, poke about a dozen holes in it. Ladle the hot syrup onto the cake, waiting for one ladle of syrup to absorb before adding another. (You can use all the syrup or half of it, saving the other half for future use.

  2. When the cake has cooled completely, cut it into sixteen squares. As an option, you can add a spoonful of whipped cream to each piece and sprinkle with pistachio nuts.

 

Greek Farina Cake is made from pantry and refrigerated staples and then drenched in a honey, orange zest syrup, which results in a supremely moist and flavorful dessert. Recipe shared with permission granted by Maria DiRico, author of HERE COMES THE BODY.

 

 

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

 

Pin to Pinterest:

Greek Farina Cake is made from pantry and refrigerated staples and then drenched in a honey, orange zest syrup, which results in a supremely moist and flavorful dessert. Recipe shared with permission granted by Maria DiRico, author of HERE COMES THE BODY.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you receive my blog post via email you will need to visit my website to view the video.

 

I was provided an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

 

 

Greek Farina Cake is made from pantry and refrigerated staples and then drenched in a honey, orange zest syrup, which results in a supremely moist and flavorful dessert. Recipe shared with permission granted by Maria DiRico, author of HERE COMES THE BODY.

 

Chai Spice Cake

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I’ve been a long-time fan of The Callie’s Kitchen Mystery Series by Jenny Kales! Featuring Greek-American Calliope Costas, this feisty food business owner and amateur sleuth lives in a scenic Wisconsin town with colorful characters — and a high murder rate. Ms. Kales provides several yummy recipes at the back of each of her cozy mysteries and I was thrilled when I found that she had compiled and then added numerous recipes to create The Callie’s Kitchen Mysteries Cookbook! 

Full of mouth-watering dishes, Ms. Kales includes a full range of dishes from Appetizers, Beverages, Salads and Sides, Soups and Stews, Main Dishes, and of course my favorite, Sweet Treats! I appreciate that the index recipe list links to the actual recipe page, which saves time from having to scroll through to find the right spot. I also love that Ms. Kales starts each recipe with a blurb, alerting the reader to either that it’s a new recipe or which book the recipe was featured in. She also gives some fun tidbits about the storyline in her books or insight into the recipe. It provides added entertainment when browsing for a new recipe to try out. The hardest part when reading through Callie’s Kitchen Mysteries Cookbook? Trying to narrow down which recipe I want to try first since I want to make them all!

I’ve had the opportunity to make several dessert dishes from her four mystery books, and each of them are amazingly delicious. I’m re-sharing Ms. Kale’s recipe for Chai Spice Cake because it’s super yummy, looks festive, and isn’t too difficult to make. Plus I really like that the recipe includes using individual spices to create the chai mix instead of having to track down and buy a specialty spice. Included is a yummy cream cheese glaze for the Chai Spice Cake, but if pressed for time I think a sprinkling of confectioners’ sugar would be a simple alternative. I’ve made this cake a few times and always receive huge compliments on it!

 

Six spices combine to infuse Chai Spice Cake with delicious flavor. With a generous drizzle of Cream Cheese Glaze, this showstopper will wow your guests! Recipe shared with permission granted by Jenny Kales, author of CALLIE'S KITCHEN MYSTERIES COOKBOOK.

 

Amazon Synopsis

You’re invited to Callie’s Kitchen, where Greek food meets Midwest comfort cooking…

The Callie’s Kitchen Mysteries Cookbook is filled with Mediterranean-meets-Midwest comfort food recipes! You’ll find every delicious recipe from each one of the books in the popular culinary cozy mystery series, plus many new bonus recipes. Also included are book excerpts, brand-new scenes, family lore and kitchen tips from Callie “Calliope” Costas herself, Greek-American foodie, business owner and amateur sleuth.

Now you can share Callie’s Greek specialties with your family and friends, including:

George’s Spanakopita (Spinach-Feta Pie with Phyllo)
Kourabiethes (Greek snowball cookies)
New Year’s Meat-Leek Pie with Phyllo
Zucchini Fritters with Greek Yogurt Sauce
My Big (Low) Fat Greek Salad

You’ll also find Callie’s Midwestern favorites, such as:

Wisconsin Supper Club Cheese Spread
Callie’s Sour Cherry Pie
Pumpkin Spice Scones

If you’ve ever wanted to visit Callie’s fictional Wisconsin eatery, this cookbook is the next best thing. Bring the scrumptious flavors of Callie’s Kitchen right into your own home by ordering today!

 

 

 

 

 

A special thanks to Jenny Kales for providing one winner with an e-book copy of Callie’s Kitchen Cookbook PLUS your e-book choice of one of Callie’s Kitchen Mysteries listed below! Contest ends Friday, February 21, 2020 at 11:59 pm PST. Please use the Rafflecopter box located below to enter. The winner will be announced on this page and on Cinnamon & Sugar’s Facebook page, as well as notified by email (so check your spam folder!)

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Print
Chai Spice Cake
Bring out your best Bundt pan for this one and you will have one impressive cake to share at a fall gathering or the holidays. I use my Vintage Star Bundt pan for this, but any Bundt or tube pan will work. With its warm blend of spices, this cake could even grace the table at a special brunch. An easy glaze recipe is included, but you could also dust this cake with powdered sugar for a simple decoration. Either way, this cake is full of scrumptious flavor.
Ingredients
Cake:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Pinch salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chai spice mix:
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch finely ground black pepper
Cream Cheese Glaze:
  • 1 tablespoon very soft cream cheese
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 - 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees (F).

  2. Spray a Bundt pan or tube pan with Pam baking spray (with flour).
  3. Mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and chai spice in a medium bowl. Set aside.

  4. Beat butter and cream cheese with sugar until very light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. 

  5. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until blended.

  6. Add flour mixture in thirds, alternating with sour cream. Do not overbeat. 

  7. Add the vanilla extract and mix until just blended.

  8. Pour batter into Bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 38-40 minutes. Check for doneness by testing the center with a toothpick; it should come out clean. Be careful not to overbake.

  9. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before unmolding to cool completely on a wire rack. Let cool a little longer before slicing the cake. It is best served warm.

Cream Cheese Glaze:

  1. Whisk ingredients together until the glaze is smooth and pourable. Add a little more milk if the mixture is too stiff. Drizzle over top of cake.

Six spices combine to infuse Chai Spice Cake with delicious flavor. With a generous drizzle of Cream Cheese Glaze, this showstopper will wow your guests! Recipe shared with permission granted by Jenny Kales, author of CALLIE'S KITCHEN MYSTERIES COOKBOOK.

 

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

 

Pin to Pinterest:

Six spices combine to infuse Chai Spice Cake with delicious flavor. With a generous drizzle of Cream Cheese Glaze, this showstopper will wow your guests! Recipe shared with permission granted by Jenny Kales, author of CALLIE'S KITCHEN MYSTERIES COOKBOOK.

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you receive my blog post via email you will need to visit my website to view the video.

 

 

Here’s a link to Paximathia (Spiced Greek Biscotti), one of the recipes in SPICED AND ICED, and was passed down from Ms. Kale’s husband’s grandmother! This recipe is the second most visited page on my blog and is in the top 10 most watched YouTube videos on my channel!

Paximathia – Spiced Greek Biscotti

Click on photo to visit recipe page

 

Penn’s Surprisingly Simple Chocolate Chip Brownies

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BONBON WITH THE WIND, the much anticipated fourth book in the Southern Chocolate Shop Mystery series by Dorothy St. James, is another entertaining edition to a charming series! This newest release continues the story of protagonist, Charity Penn, who goes by the name of Penn. I love how the author has developed Penn’s character from the very first book and continues her progression through this fourth book. Penn is finally learning to trust her friends and open herself up to love which adds a dimension of emotion to the story. While this can be read as a stand-alone I personally think it is better to start at the beginning. The metamorphosis the protagonist experiences after inheriting her grandmother’s chocolate shop (whom she never even knew existed while growing up) can be better appreciated by reading the books in order. The author’s strong descriptive voice brings the setting of Camellia Beach in full focus as the island experiences the devastation following a hurricane. The reader can feel the anguish the residents feel as they inspect the damage caused to their homes and business. I love how they work together to recover from the disaster.

BONBON WITH THE WIND brings a greater element of the paranormal to the story as well…not that Penn believes in ghosts or anything. I was greatly intrigued in the way the legends of the island were portrayed and woven into the story and into the murder. As Penn learns to trust her friends in matters of the heart, she also has to learn to trust them as she hunts for the killer of the elderly treasure hunter. I enjoyed seeing her work as a team instead of shutting them out. The mystery was well-paced and the clues were sprinkled throughout, although I didn’t guess right. With a suspenseful reveal, Ms. St. James wraps up the threads of the story into a highly satisfying conclusion.

Penn’s shop, The Chocolate Box, creates all sorts of yummy chocolate delicacies for the residents and visiting ghost hunters. When the hurricane damage halts delivery of their supplies, Penn and her chocolatier, Bertie, scramble to create treats with ingredients they can rummage together from the grocery store and their dwindling pantry. One of the recipes Penn comes up with is her Surprisingly Simple Chocolate Chip Brownies, which uses only THREE ingredients. (If you haven’t read any books in this series, Penn isn’t a cook or a baker or a chocolatier, so the simpler the recipe, the better.) I was intrigued but couldn’t quite picture how it would turn out. Let me tell you, not only was it one of the easiest recipes I’ve made, but it was super yummy too! The graham cracker mixture turned chewy (in a good way) while the chocolate chips added just the right amount of bitterness and texture to the mix. I added a quick drizzle of melted chocolate chips to the top of the brownies to make them a bit more visually appealing, but they’d still be delicious without it. Next time I need a spur-of-the-moment dessert, I’ll be making these Chocolate Chip Brownies since I always have these ingredients stocked in my pantry.

 

Penn's Surprisingly Simple Chocolate Chip Brownies uses only THREE pantry staple ingredients, yet the results create a delicous, chocolatey treat! Recipe shared with permission granted by Dorothy St. James, author of BONBON WITH THE WIND.

 

Amazon Synopsis

Penn’s perfect life on Camellia Beach is threatened. A powerful hurricane is heading their way.

There’s a legend in the Sea Islands that before a hurricane hits if you see the Gray Lady walking down the beach, you’re doomed. Joe Davies, a local treasure hunter with an unquenchable sweet tooth, claims to have seen the Gray Lady walking toward him just that morning and is terrified for his life. Penn saw the woman, too. But she doesn’t believe in such silly stories.

After the storm passes, Joe Davies’ body is found washed up onshore. Did the Gray Lady claim another victim? Many on the island believe that is exactly what happened.

Penn is sure there’s another explanation. She follows the clues and hints of lost gold to discover that the truth behind the treasure hunter’s death is as much of a maze as the boating channels winding their way through the local marshes.

 

 

 

 

A special thanks to Dorothy St. James for offering one winner a print copy of PLAYING WITH BONBON FIRE. Contest ends Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at 11:59 pm PST and is limited to U.S. residents only. Please use the Rafflecopter box located below to enter. The winner will be announced on this page and on Cinnamon & Sugar’s Facebook page, as well as notified by email (so check your spam folder!)

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Penn's Surprisingly Simple Chocolate Chip Brownies uses only THREE pantry staple ingredients, yet the results create a delicous, chocolatey treat! Recipe shared with permission granted by Dorothy St. James, author of BONBON WITH THE WIND.

Penn's Surprisingly Simple Chocolate Chip Brownies-2728
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Penn's Surprisingly Simple Chocolate Chip Brownies

The secret to this recipe is not to over mix the batter. Penn has shared with this editor all the other ways that she's messed up this ridiculously simple recipe, but dear reader, we know that you have more sense than to repeat any of her appalling mistakes. This is a recipe that was given to her, so she doesn't know the original origin. But, let me tell you, I've tested this one myself. And although there are only three ingredients, if you use a good quality chocolate, you're going to find it difficult not to eat all of these brownies for yourself.

Ingredients
  • 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk
  • 2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
  • 6 ounces Fair Trade Chocolate Chips (I prefer dark or semi-sweet)
Instructions

  1. Mix all the ingredients together.

  2. Spread in a 9 x 9 square inch pan (ungreased).

  3. Bake in a 350 degree (F) preheated oven for 30 minutes.

  4. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting.

  5. Depending on how you cut the brownies, the recipe makes about 2 dozen.

Cinnamon & Sugar's Notes

  1. If you plan on serving brownies on a platter, create two foil slings and line baking pan with them before spreading dough for easy removal.

  2. If desired, melt 1/4 cup (1.5 ounces) Fair Trade chocolate chips and place in a piping bag or ziplock bag. Snip a corner of the bag and drizzle over cooled brownies. Allow drizzle to set before serving.

Penn's Surprisingly Simple Chocolate Chip Brownies uses only THREE pantry staple ingredients, yet the results create a delicous, chocolatey treat! Recipe shared with permission granted by Dorothy St. James, author of BONBON WITH THE WIND.

 

 

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

 

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Penn's Surprisingly Simple Chocolate Chip Brownies uses only THREE pantry staple ingredients, yet the results create a delicous, chocolatey treat! Recipe shared with permission granted by Dorothy St. James, author of BONBON WITH THE WIND.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you receive my blog post via email you will need to visit my website to view the video.

 

Penn's Surprisingly Simple Chocolate Chip Brownies uses only THREE pantry staple ingredients, yet the results create a delicous, chocolatey treat! Recipe shared with permission granted by Dorothy St. James, author of BONBON WITH THE WIND.

 

 

Vicki Delany’s Hummingbird Cake

Click on book to visit Amazon

THERE’S A MURDER AFOOT, the fifth book in the Sherlock Bookshop Mysteries by Vicki Delany, is another entertaining addition to one of my favorite series. Protagonist Gemma Doyle is part owner and the manager of the Sherlock Homes Bookshop and Emporium in West London, Massachusetts. Despite not being a huge fan of Sherlock, Gemma is quite knowledgeable and has a sharp sense of observation not unlike the famous detective. I’ve always enjoyed the setting of the bookshop but in this new release Gemma and her good friends head across the pond to London, England. It was a treat to be introduced to Gemma’s family which adds another layer of insight into her character. I especially enjoyed seeing her interact with her mysterious sister, Pippa. The set up makes it seem like the reader might be treated to future storylines featuring both sisters. One of the great strengths of Ms. Delany is her character development which makes the story come alive.

When Gemma’s father is accused of murdering his estranged and felonious brother-in-law, Gemma knows she has to get involved in finding the truth. Despite pointing out overlooked clues to the detective in charge, Gemma still can’t convince him of her father’s innocence. I loved how she teamed up with her friends to ask questions as the trail led her to the dark world of art forgery with her sister providing some background practical assistance. Again there are parallels to the original Sherlock books and this series for the sharp reader to pick out. With clues sprinkled throughout the quest, I was still surprised with the twists and turns the plot took. An exciting finish wrapped up the book and left me wanting the next in this series to be available sooner than later!

While there aren’t any recipes in the book, Ms. Delany has graciously shared her own yummy Hummingbird Cake creation for this post. Oh my goodness… so many delicious ingredients packed into one cake! Rich, thanks to loads of walnuts and coconut, and exceptionally moist thanks to a generous amount of pineapple and bananas. Hummingbird Cake is a bit reminiscent of carrot cake but imbibes a tropical flavor that is enhanced with the tangy cream cheese frosting. I greatly appreciated that the leftovers were just as delicious, if not more so, the next day after being refrigerated. I’ll be making this cake for special occasions especially since I know it will hold up to storing for a day or two.

 

 

Rich, thanks to loads of walnuts and coconut, and exceptionally moist thanks to a generous amount of pineapple and bananas. Hummingbird Cake imbibes a tropical flavor that is enhanced with the tangy cream cheese frosting. Recipe shared with permission granted by Vicki Delany, author of THERE'S A MURDER AFOOT.

 

Amazon Synopsis

Gemma Doyle and her friends travel to London for a Sherlock Holmes convention–but will Gemma’s father take the fall for a felonious forger’s fatality?

The 6th of January is Sherlock Holmes’s birthday, and lucky for Gemma Doyle, January is also the slowest time of the year at both the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium, and Mrs. Hudson’s Tea Room. It’s a good time for Gemma and her friends to travel to England for a Holmes Convention. For Gemma, the trip provides an opportunity to visit her parents, Jayne Wilson is excited about seeing all the sites London has to offer, and Ryan Ashburton just wants to spend some time with Gemma. But the trip is immediately derailed when Gemma’s father Henry recognizes his brother-in-law Randolph Denhaugh, who disappeared more than thirty years ago on the night he stole a valuable painting from his own parents.

Henry, a retired detective with Scotland Yard, has been keeping tabs on the man’s career as a forger of Old Masters and he warns Randy to stay away from his family. It’s up to Gemma, with the help of her friends, to plunge into the “lowest and vilest alleys” of London to save her father from prison.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks to the publisher, I’m happy to offer one winner a hardcover copy! Contest ends Wednesday, February 12, 2020 at 11:59 pm PST and is limited to U.S. residents only. Please use the Rafflecopter box located below to enter. The winner will be announced on this page and on Cinnamon & Sugar’s Facebook page, as well as notified by email (so check your spam folder!)

 

 

 

Rich, thanks to loads of walnuts and coconut, and exceptionally moist thanks to a generous amount of pineapple and bananas. Hummingbird Cake imbibes a tropical flavor that is enhanced with the tangy cream cheese frosting. Recipe shared with permission granted by Vicki Delany, author of THERE'S A MURDER AFOOT.

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Vicki Delany’s Hummingbird Cake

I once made this cake for a pot luck. The owner of Saylor’s House Café in Bloomfield, Ontario was there and she liked the cake so much she begged me for the recipe. It’s now featured on their regular menu!

Ingredients
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 cups mashed ripe banana (about 3 large)
  • 1 can (8-ounces) crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1 cup unsweetened desiccated coconut
Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°. Butter two 9 inch-by-2 inch round cake pans. Line the bottom of pans with parchment paper. Butter the paper and dust pans with flour, tapping out any excess; set pans aside.

  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt; set aside.
  3. Place oil, vanilla, and sugar in an electric mixer and beat until well combined, about 2 minutes.

  4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating to combine after each addition. Continue beating until mixture is fluffy and pale yellow.

  5. In a medium bowl, stir together banana, pineapple, walnuts, and coconut. Add to egg mixture, stir until well combined. Add flour mixture; blend well.

  6. Divide mixture between prepared pans. Bake until golden brown, and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, 30 to 40 minutes, rotating pans halfway through baking.

  7. Transfer pans to a baking rack to cool. Let pans cool 15 minutes before removing. Cool completely before icing.

  8. Recommended icing: Your favorite cream cheese frosting

Makes one 9-inch layer cake
Cinnamon & Sugar's Easy Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. Cream together 8 ounces softened cream cheese with 4 ounces softened butter and 1/4 teaspoon sea salt. Beat in 2 cups confectioners' sugar. Once incorporated add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice. Beat in an additional 2 cups confectioners' sugar and whip for 3 minutes until light and creamy. If necessary, add an additional 1 - 2 teaspoons lemon juice if consistency is too stiff.

Rich, thanks to loads of walnuts and coconut, and exceptionally moist thanks to a generous amount of pineapple and bananas. Hummingbird Cake imbibes a tropical flavor that is enhanced with the tangy cream cheese frosting. Recipe shared with permission granted by Vicki Delany, author of THERE'S A MURDER AFOOT.

 

 

 

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

 

Pin to Pinterest:

Rich, thanks to loads of walnuts and coconut, and exceptionally moist thanks to a generous amount of pineapple and bananas. Hummingbird Cake imbibes a tropical flavor that is enhanced with the tangy cream cheese frosting. Recipe shared with permission granted by Vicki Delany, author of THERE'S A MURDER AFOOT.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you receive my blog post via email you will need to visit my website to view the video.

 

I was provided an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

 

Rich, thanks to loads of walnuts and coconut, and exceptionally moist thanks to a generous amount of pineapple and bananas. Hummingbird Cake imbibes a tropical flavor that is enhanced with the tangy cream cheese frosting. Recipe shared with permission granted by Vicki Delany, author of THERE'S A MURDER AFOOT.

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